Chapter 23!
Jul. 13th, 2008 11:33 pm![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png){kind=small}
faded_laceChapter: 23
Claimer: Ours.
Rating: R for killing
Warnings: violence, BL, shota if you're looking, language, etc.
Beta:![[livejournal.com profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/external/lj-userinfo.gif)
wearenotaskitz is happy that this chapter is so Donavan-tastic!
Donavan strummed the steering wheel impatiently, straining to see Faustino as he looked out over the manicured lawn of his father’s estate. Faustino had concealed himself in the hedges lining the drive and was entirely invisible, but Donavan couldn’t help but continue to look for him anxiously. Any minute now, his father would appear at the door and walk, unsuspecting, to his waiting automobile. He had a meeting with some of the top members of his faction of the Berceuse Malheureuse, but, if all went according to plan, it would be a meeting he would ultimately not attend.
Faustino was demonstrating his killing prowess once more for Algernon as proof of how far he’d come and just how deadly he now was. Laurent D’Aubgine, Donavan’s father and the leader of the rival faction of the Berceuse Malheureuse, was his target.
Donavan squirmed in his seat, sweating as his heart raced with anxiety. He was concerned about Faustino, about his safety and all the variables—so many things could go wrong, and Donavan knew that on this trial run, like the real mission, there would be no second chances. Additionally, in spite of everything, guilt plagued him; it had been his decision that his father should be Faustino’s target, and while his father’s assassination would prove to be extremely advantageous to his position in the Berceuse Malheureuse, it still didn’t change the fact that Donavan had ordered a hit on his own father.
They’d never been close; in fact, since Donavan joined the Berceuse Malheureuse and later split the group, it had been all but war between he and his father. They hadn’t spoken face to face in over four years, and yet, Donavan couldn’t suppress the guilt. But soon, it would all be over, and soon, thanks to Faustino, the entire Berceuse Malheureuse would be under his control. Donavan forced a grin to his lips and turned to Algernon, acting smug and expressing the pride for Faustino that he truly felt. “It’ll just be a few more minutes, I’m sure.”
“I should hope so.” Perceval whined from the backseat, moving his hair off of the back of his neck in an effort to combat the stifling heat of the automobile’s interior.
Faustino knelt in wait, peering through the bushes at the door of the manor. Soon, Donavan had told him, a man would emerge, and he was to kill that man. Faustino had no qualms with this, as Donavan had explained that this man had been cruel to him in the past and was keeping him from important things, and was not, for the most part, worried. After all, he had killed everyone Donavan had asked him to kill before, so why should this time be a problem? As always, he had some pre-assassination jitters, but that was to be expected. He swallowed, leaning forward a little and staring at the door.
It felt like ages, but all of a sudden, the door opened and a man strode out. This must be him, and as he passed, Faustino sprung out from his hiding place, aiming his pistol at the man's head and hesitating only a second before firing. He watched as it hit, as the man collapsed, as blood flowed forth, and he smiled, pleased with himself. The man had no idea what hit him, and Faustino moved forward to nudge the corpse with his toe. It was indeed lifeless, and his smile widened. Waving to Donavan with a grin, he re-holstered his pistol and took a few steps forward, calling, "I did it!"
Donavan jumped out of the automobile quickly, grinning happily in spite of how fast his heart was beating. He hadn’t watched the kill; for the first time in his life, he’d closed his eyes before the gun was fired. Laurent D’Aubigne was dead—the family house now belonged to him, and the entirety of the Berceuse Malheureuse was his for the taking. He would rejoice and celebrate with Faustino, because to him, the death of his father was merely the removal of an obstacle.
Servants employed by the D’Aubignes knew better than to investigate a gunshot. They always hid, fearful of losing their jobs or their lives, and so there was little to worry about. Donavan knew that sooner or later, one would emerge, spot the blood that was now pooling in the drive, clean it, and retreat with no questions asked. Later, Donavan would explain what had happened, and after the manor was thoroughly cleaned and the stench of his father’s hedonistic lifestyle had been purged, he and Faustino could move in.
Donavan looked over his shoulder briefly to see both Algernon and Perceval get out of the automobile, but did not wait for them before hurrying to Faustino’s side and scooping him into his arms. “You did so well!” He praised, squeezing him tightly. Donavan was determined to ignore any and all comments Perceval made regarding the affection he showed Faustino. Their relationship was not his business, and since it was perfectly platonic, Donavan did not need to acknowledge any comments about it.
"Yay!" Faustino cried happily, wrapping his arms around Donavan's neck and planting a kiss on his cheek. "I did it all right, then?" he asked cheerfully, smiling at Donavan. "I'm so happy! Everything's going to be really easy for you now, right? I want to make you happy, Donavan!"
Algernon strolled leisurely towards Donavan and the child, allowing them their little happy time before interrupting with a smile. "May I commend you on your kill, Master Esparanza? It was really quite excellent."
"Thank you, sir," Faustino replied happily, sparing Algernon only a moment before turning back to Donavan.
Donavan smirked, taking in the praise Faustino had received and swelling all the more with pride. “Yes,” he replied, returning the kiss with a peck on the forehead, “I just have to do one quick errand, and everything will be set.” Donavan ignored the face Perceval was making at him, and continued, praising Faustino lavishly. “Thanks to you, that horrible man is dead, and that means I can have my house—this house—back; you and I can move in soon. What do you think?” Donavan asked, turning so that they could both look at the elegant, though slightly modest estate.
"Oh, really?" Faustino asked eagerly. "We get to live here, Donavan? I'm so excited!" He hugged Donavan happily, resting his head against Donavan's shoulder contentedly.
"Well, I wouldn't want to hold you back from your errand," Algernon cut in with a smile. "M. D'Aubigne, I'll be meeting with you later in order to discuss plans. You'll be contacted." And, with a nod to the boy, he turned on his heel, grinning to himself at how excellently well his plan was coming together. "Come, Percy," he beckoned, amused by Perceval's scowl of disgust at Donavan and the little boy. "I'll treat you to lunch."
“Good, I’m looking forward to hearing the details.” Donavan turned back to Algernon and nodded, returning the smile with a smirk.
Perceval shot one last disapproving look at his cousin and the child-assassin before hurrying to join Algernon, perking up considerably at the thought of spending more time with just Algernon, and at a restaurant for lunch, no less. Yes, he could put up with going to see the little Esparanza boy, if only to keep Donavan and Algernon from being alone together and he could hold his tongue while Donavan spoiled the boy, further developing the very unhealthy relationship the two already had, if he knew that Algernon would treat him afterwards. Indeed, Perceval could endure anything for Algernon.
With their audience gone, Donavan set Faustino down gently and knelt by the body, inspecting the bullet wound. “Good clean shot,” he commented, glancing up at Faustino. “It went straight though. Very nice.” Looking down once more, Donavan shut the eyes that hadn’t closed in his father’s final seconds of life, illustrating just how suddenly death had come. Donavan was beginning to feel a little sick to his stomach the more he thought about the fact that his father was dead on his orders, and sucked in a breath through his teeth, trying not to think about it anymore. The last thing he wanted was for Faustino to think he felt any remorse, because he didn’t. He felt only relief, relief tinged both with guilt and excitement.
Donavan stood abruptly and went around to the rear of the automobile, opening the trunk before returning to the body. “We need this for my errand,” Donavan explained to Faustino as he knelt to lift the corpse. It was limp and heavy, and the smell and dead weight of it disgusted Donavan. There was blood all over it, and as much as Donavan tried, he couldn’t keep from getting it all over his hands, sleeves, and vest. Still, he managed to fit it into the trunk, and wiped his hands off before opening the door for Faustino on his way to the driver’s seat. “Ready?” Donavan asked with a grin, before sliding inside his father’s luxury automobile, savoring the feeling of power he’d only experienced once before in his youth when he’d stolen the car and taken it for a joyride around the block.
Faustino nodded. "I'm ready," he replied, situating himself in the plush leather seat. "But... Donavan, what exactly is the errand...? And...why do we need the dead body?" He was still a little vague on the plan, and though he wanted to do whatever Donavan wanted him to do, he wanted to know what it was he was doing.
“The guy in the back,” Donavan smirked, gesturing in the direction of the trunk, “Was on his way to a very important meeting of his. I’ve decided to go instead of him, and I need to take his body as proof that he’s dead.” Donavan explained with a glance to Faustino. “He’s a very important man, you see, and now that he’s dead, I can take his place.”
"Oh!" Faustino replied, "So now you can get everything that was his, right? I'm so glad!" He smiled, sitting back into his seat contentedly. Whatever he had to do, he would make sure that Donavan got what he deserved, no matter what.
Donavan smiled and sped forward. Laurent D’Aubigne was already late to his meeting, and Donavan wanted to make sure no one came looking for him. It was important that all of the top members of the other faction were present when Donavan made his appearance with Faustino at his side and his father’s body as proof of the fact that they were responsible for his death. He hoped everything would run smoothly and according to plan, but Donavan knew that if anything went wrong, Faustino would have his back.
Donavan pulled up to the place the meeting was to be held, a sketchy looking bar and inn located on the outskirts of town, and opened his door slowly, looking for sentries. Whatever guards were on duty had recognized the automobile, and hopefully they wouldn’t attack for that reason. Donavan stepped out carefully, waited a moment, and when no one confronted him and no alarm was sounded, he grinned, and went around to Faustino’s door. “Stay alert, Faustino,” Donavan instructed him, leading him around to the trunk. “I’ll take care of this,” Donavan gestured to the body, “if you stay on guard. I’m counting on you if anyone does anything dangerous.”
Faustino nodded, keeping a hand on his pistol on his hip. "I'll do my best," he replied, scrunching his nose a little at the dead body. Following Donavan, he took his gun into his hands, holding it close to his body so as not to look suspicious, looking around and doing his best to make sure Donavan stayed safe.
Donavan reached the door of the inn and propped the body up against the wall, knocking lightly on the door. It opened just a crack, and a guard peered out. “It’s D’Aubigne.” Donavan said gruffly, sounding like his father. The door swung open, and leaving the body temporarily, Donavan stepped inside to deal with the guard, who froze upon seeing him. “Hello there.” Donavan greeted warmly. “Laurent met with an unfortunate accident today and won’t be coming. If you wouldn’t mind leaving, I’d appreciate it.” Donavan knew that the key to controlling grunts like the guard was money. Carefully, he slipped the man a wad of bills, then gestured to the door. The hired guard glanced down at the payoff, then bowed deeply to Donavan, backing out of the door and only pausing a moment to eye Faustino suspiciously.
Donavan watched him make his way out down the road and disappear, before smiling to Faustino, and signaling that he should be ready. Once again, Donavan hoisted the body into his arms, this time taking it inside and kicking open the door through which he could hear the voices of his father’s retainers. “Sorry to interrupt,” Donavan announced loudly, obviously not sorry in the slightest as everyone in the room turned to him in shock. Smirking broadly, Donavan dropped the body onto the table around which everyone was seated, knocking over glasses of ale and causing all the men to jump back in both surprise and disgust. “Thank you for waiting so patiently for you leader to arrive before beginning the meeting. I suppose that since I’m here, you can go ahead and start now.”
The men all stared at Donavan in disbelief for a moment, and Faustino felt proud to be with him as they all struggled to recover from the shock. He was glad he was on Donavan's side, because Donavan certainly deserved to be the leader, and Donavan would definitely end up on top.
After a moment, however, one man, it seemed, broke out of his shock, and an angry expression took over his features. "How could you--?" he demanded, growling at Donavan as he lunged forward. His heart skipping a beat, Faustino wasted no time in firing at the man's head, and was pleased to find that he had killed him instantly. The man fell to the ground, causing even more of a bloody mess after what the corpse has done. Faustino cast about the room, glaring gravely, daring anyone else to try to hurt Donavan. If they did, he would kill them without hesitation, and now he had made that clear.
Donavan’s smirk widened as he surveyed Faustino’s work proudly. The remaining men got to their feet quickly, reaching for their weapons, but Donavan stayed calm. “Allow me to introduce my protégé, Master Esparanza. Please understand that he won’t hesitate to kill any of you if you do so much as move too quickly. Now, take a seat.” The men sat, all of them looking rather terrified and glancing from one another. “Both the bodies you see before you are examples of his work,” Donavan explained, “so you would do well not to underestimate him.” Smiling, he pulled up a chair. “Now then, on to business.”
Corinne was walking down the hall, headed home, briefcase in hand, when she noticed her least favourite person walking straight at her, the other way down the hall. Rolling her eyes, she tried hard to ignore her, she really did, but no, the Warrant Officer just had to pick a fight. "Oh, you're still around?"
Corinne clenched her jaw. "The same could be said for you, Warrant Officer. I thought you considered this an inappropriate workplace for someone like yourself." Okay, so she shouldn't have picked a fight. She shouldn't have. But Alice had started it! It wasn't really her fault!
Alice stuck up her nose at that stupid Lt. Colonel. "I'm sacrificing myself for a worthy cause," she replied snootily, shooting Corinne a haughty look. That bitch would never be able to understand how she was helping Algernon in all of his glory to take over the country, but Alice still felt she had the right to gloat.
Corinne rolled her eyes again. "Oh, I'm sure you're doing something very worthy. What department were you in again? Records and Information Repository, was it?" She smirked. "Some important papers you were filing, I'm sure. What would the military do without you?"
Alice glowered. "Why thank you, Lt. Colonel, but that's not the important work of which I'm speaking." She cleared her throat, shifting her weight into one hip to make herself appear all the more impressive. "I am helping to get that dreadful queen out of power so that someone much better and much more suited can rule this country."
Corinne's eyes widened, and she blinked speechless. Had the Warrant Officer really just said that? "You're kidding... right?"
"Hah! Not so high and mighty now, are you, Lt. Colonel! Good day!" And with that, Alice strutted off.
Julian nearly dropped the stack of paper he was carrying when a red headed woman pushed passed him, apparently headed back inside headquarters for some reason or another. He’d seen her just moments earlier talking to the Lt. Colonel, who now stood looking quite puzzled. Julian wondered what had been said and hurried forward to his superior. “Sir, is everything all right? What did that enlisted woman want?”
Corinne broke out of her complete confusion and turned to see Kaiser walk up to her. "Hey, Kaiser..." she replied vaguely, lost in thought. What on earth could the Warrant Officer have meant? Helping to get the queen out of power... What did that even mean? And who was she helping? Some of her stupid girly friends? Who else did Alice Johnston spend time with? Arguing with herself? Or with the General? Why did she always argue with the General, anyway? What did they even have in common? They didn't work together...
And then it hit her. "Shit! Kaiser, have Hirlea and Christian left yet? We have to go find them, now!"
“What?” Julian asked confusedly. “I don’t know where they are,” he answered quickly, furrowing his brow. Julian followed the Lt. Colonel as she hurried from the building out into that parking lot as they looked for Niles and Dragomir. “What have you learned, sir?” He asked anxiously, keeping his voice low and staying right at her heels.
Corinne searched around frantically, but it seemed neither Hirlea nor Christian nor Christian's car were anywhere around, and so finally, exasperated, she returned to her own automobile, telling Kaiser to get in. She'd have to find some way to apologize to Viorica later for standing her up, and she still had to figure out exactly what was going on, but right now, she needed to tell what she had heard to the ones who actually seemed to have any idea of what was happening behind closed doors. "Do you know the way to Christian's house?" she asked Kaiser hurriedly, pulling out of the parking lot.
“Yes!” Julian said brightly. He still had no idea what could possibly be so pressing that the Lt. Colonel couldn’t wait until tomorrow to tell them, and he was still curious as to whether or not the redhead had had anything to do with it. “I’ll direct you, sir,” Julian added with a nod, taking his duty very seriously. Since he was going along for the ride, he knew that at least this time, he would be there for the explanation and would be able to offer his own opinion on the matter.
Driving with Kaiser was a harrowing experience, to say the least, but somehow, Corinne and the Captain made it to Hirlea and Christian's estate, and Corinne didn't even bother to pull into the drive, quickly parking on the street and hurrying towards the manor. Knocking loudly on the door, she called, "Hey, open up! I have something important!"
Niles peered over the servant's shoulder, seeing the Lt. Colonel and Julian waiting outside. "Oh, come in!" he called, waving cheerfully and sending the servant away. As they stepped inside, he lowered his voice somewhat. "You have something important? Come on into the parlour..." Ushering them in, he moved to the stairs, calling, "Hey, Dragomir! The Lt. Colonel and Julian are here!"
When only Niles greeted them at the door, Julian hoped that Dragomir was out; everything always seemed so much more pleasant and civil without the brut there to interrupt. He sighed with disappointment when Niles called for the dolt, though, and bleakly followed him to the parlor, resigned to the fact that Niles was never anywhere without Dragomir.
Dragomir descended the stairs hurriedly, knowing that the only reason the two would come over would be to share some knew information and hoping that because the Lt. Colonel was present, the data uncovered would actually be useful. He made his way to the parlor where Julian and Lt. Colonel Delancy were waiting with Niles and turned anxiously to his superior, hoping she was the one with the news.
Waiting for Hirlea to shut the door behind him, Corinne began, speaking hurriedly and as quietly as she could manage while being heard by everyone in the room. "The Commandant wants to take over the country, or at least someone does, because they're plotting to remove the Queen! I met someone in the hall today who isn't very bright, and she just blurted it out to me! I couldn't believe it, but... that's all I could make of it! The Commandant wants to take over power!"
Niles' eyes widened, and he gaped for a moment in disbelief before nodding. "...It all fits, then. The speech against the Queen, and the fact that we're not supposed to help her... Dragomir, do you think this is really it?" He was alarmed, but at the same time, excited to have this information- though there was nothing they could do about it, knowing was better than being in the dark.
“Who said that?” Julian asked, scandalized. He could believe that something devious involving the military and the Berceuse Malheureuse was occurring under the table, but to think that the plot could involve a military coup d’état? It was simply unbelievable! As much as he’d grown to dislike the Queen recently, the idea of her not being at the head of the government alarmed him, especially if a military take-over involved granting the Berceuse Malheureuse even more power. “How could anyone know something like that and be so flippant?”
For once, Julian had raised a valid point; why would someone known to be rather stupid be trusted with such information? But if indeed a coup was part of the plan, than whoever was orchestrating it was being very careful to paint the Queen in an unfavorable light. It certainly seemed like a very good strategy, and it could indeed be the Commandant’s ultimate goal—if in fact it was the Commandant pulling all the strings. “Maybe,” Dragomir bit his lip, turning to Niles. “But I have no idea how it could possibly be done. Everything has been managed so diplomatically so far, and while the manipulation that’s going on fits, there’s still no way to completely remove the Queen without…civil war or something.”
Niles nodded slowly. "Or... if he got everyone to dislike her, then he'd have everyone on his side... but how would he get her place? He couldn't just say, 'Excuse me, everyone likes me better, I'm Queen now,' or something..." He thought over it. "He'd have to wait for her to die, and even then, she'd probably have an heir..."
"Or," Corinne replied gravely, "he could have her killed."
Niles gasped, bringing his hands to his mouth. "That would explain—but do you really think—?" Even he was shocked at the idea, and couldn't decide what to make of it. But then again, nothing really seemed beyond the General Commandant, not, especially, if he was working with the Berceuse Malheureuse.
“That could explain why Donavan is training an assassin.” Dragomir finished what Niles had been too stunned to verbalize.
“Why does no one answer any of my questions?” Julian whined. “How could the Commandant possibly think of assassinating the Queen?” In spite of the truth in his previous statement, Julian tried again. “If he has her killed, he’ll be denounced! There’s no way anyone would support him in taking over the government!”
Dragomir turned to Julian gravely. “Don’t you get it? The assassin, the boy, is being trained by Donavan, tying him to the Berceuse Malheureuse, not the military, and certainly not the Commandant.” While they still didn’t know for sure that it was the Commandant organizing the takeover, if that’s what it really was, everything seemed quite clear now, clearer than it had ever been. “All this time, they’ve been working to make everyone hate the Royal family. I’m sure the plan is to manipulate people so that they basically thank him for taking power out of the hands of the Beaumonts.”
Niles sighed, slouching back into his chair. "This is all so..." he trailed, unable to even finish his sentence. "I don't even know what to think anymore. What are we supposed to do?"
"Wait, I suppose," Corinne supplied. "I don't know what else there is that we can do."
Eliana walked briskly down the street, barely looking around her, feeling sullen and alone. She hardly knew what to do with herself anymore, now that her son had been taken away from her, now that her own stupidity had gotten her into this terrible situation. She knew talking to the Commandant wouldn't help anything; he would never do something because she asked. She should never have trusted him in the first place... but what was done was done, and she didn't know if there was anything else she could do. She could only hope that General Mauvais really was telling her the truth, that Faustino really was safe and well, and that she would be able to see him soon. It was foolish, but it was the only thing she had to hold on to.
But then, all of a sudden, red hair caught her eye, and she looked up to see that man—D'Aubigne—walking down the street away from her. Her stomach knotted, and without a second thought, she broke into a run, chasing after him. Finally catching up, she caught his sleeve, not wanting to let him get away. "You! What have you done with my son?"
Donavan spun around quickly, and hand moving discreetly to the pistol at his side. He didn’t recognize the voice, and while he now had much more power within the Berceuse Malheureuse, the hit he’d put out on his own father had made him rather infamous, and he’d made many enemies. For a second, he wished he’d taken Faustino out with him on his errand; if anything were to become violent, Donavna knew he could count on Faustino to have his back. However, as soon as he caught sight of the person who’d stopped him, the relief that Faustino was back at their house practicing washed over him, and he was able smile genuinely.
“Madame Esparanza,” he crooned, slipping his arm out of her grasp and taking a few steps back so that he could bow lavishly to her. “It’s so wonderful to see you again!” he straightened, taking her hand and placing a kiss on it gently, his smile brightening as he became all the more involved in his act. “You’re very lucky to have such a wonderful son, Madame. It’s a shame he didn’t accompany me on this errand, though. He would have loved to see you, and I can assure you that you would be very glad to see how much he’s grown.” Donavan beamed with pride, choosing to ignore the accusatory tone she’d used. He knew that she had been informed by Algernon that she couldn’t see Faustino, but the character he was playing for her didn’t necessarily need to enforce that decision, not, of course, that he’d let her see her son.
"Then let me see him," Eliana replied, though her tone softened a little. Still she couldn't be taken in by this man again, no matter how trustworthy he seemed. He had taken her son away from her, and she had to get him back, no matter how charming M. D'Aubigne seemed. "I want to see my son. Take me to where you have him." She looked him directly in the eye, refusing to look away. She had to see Faustino, and this could be her only chance.
“I’m afraid, Madame,” Donavan frowned, looking down, “that I cannot allow you to be reunited at this time.” He furrowed his brow to show just how upset he was by the situation as well, even as he grew more and more pleased with how well she was responding to his act so far. Still, he had to get away from her and back to Faustino soon, or else he’d worry, and he absolutely could not allow her to see him, so he couldn’t play for too long.
"And why not?" Eliana demanded, her stomach twisting. No matter how he seemed, this man really was the one keeping her from her child, and she couldn't let her will soften. She had to find Faustino, had to bring him home, where he belonged, and protect him from anything these men might do to him. "He's my son. Let me see him." Her voice shook a little; as much as she tried to tell herself otherwise, she was worried for Faustino, even more so now that she was again kept from him.
“Surely the Commandant informed you?” Donavan asked, in mock surprise. At her look of concern, he allowed the smile to return to his lips as he continued. “Well, I’m certain you’ve already realized how exceptional your boy is, Madame. It would seem that the Commandant has as well, and that he has a lot of plans for your child.” Donavan paused a moment, considering. “Just as you have done such a great service for the Commandant and the country of Galia, our esteemed Commandant has deemed it only appropriate that Master Esparanza should continue in your footsteps as an ambassador.” Donavan was lying through his teeth and he loved it. Making up long winded stories on the spot for cover was one of his favorite tricks. “I’ve been tutoring him, and he has shown tremendous progress, but unfortunately, he is at a very important turning point in his studies now, and neither I nor the Commandant can allow such important work to be interrupted just yet by what is sure to be a most joyful reunion.” He bowed deeply, then stood, taking his hat into his hands. “And that, Madame, is why I beg your patience and indulgence for just a little bit longer. Soon you will have your son with you once again, but for just a few more weeks, I hope you’ll allow him to focus uninterrupted on his studies.”
Eliana bit her lip as M. D'Aubigne spoke, unsure of what to do. It would be so easy to believe him; he sounded so sincere and trustworthy, and she knew that her son was intelligent, that he was exceptional. But yet, she felt as if there was something a little too fishy about the whole situation, and though she wasn't sure what, she just couldn't quite believe. More than anything she just wanted to see Faustino again, but yet, it also seemed as if she would have no victory here. Maybe there would be some other way...
As she thought on a plan, Eliana nodded. "All right..." she accepted, not knowing what else to do. "Please let me know as soon as I may see him again." Perhaps, if she let the man go, she could follow, and at least see Faustino, confirm his story. Just to see that he was well and happy would be enough, if D'Aubigne spoke the truth.
“Of course, of course, Madame!” Donavan said emphatically, taking her hands into his assuringly. “Either myself or the Commandant will be in touch with you as soon as Faustino has completed his studies. I’m so sorry to keep you apart like this, but it really is for the best. For Faustino’s future.” Donavan nodded gravely, releasing her hands and looking up at her with a small smile. He didn’t know why, but he was getting the feeling that she wasn’t quite satisfied. “I’m very sorry, but you’ll have to excuse me. I have errand, I hope you can understand.”
"Of course," Eliana managed. "Good day." She forced herself to stand still as she watched D'Aubigne start off away from her, waiting until she could barely see him anymore before beginning again herself, striding as fast as she could after him, keeping him in her sight. She didn't know where he was going, but she followed as best she could. No matter where he went, she had to follow. It was for her son, after all, it was for Faustino. She had to find Faustino.
Donavan was already taking off his jacket as he hurried up the steps of his familial home and opened the door, barely stopping to take off his hat before rushing through the house to the backyard where Faustino was waiting, seated on a blanket, a rifle in his lap. To Donavan, the sight of Faustino with a gun that looked way too big for him surrounded by delicious looking picnic food was absolutly adorable, but a part of him could just hear the voice of his cousin, pointing out just how very unnatural the whole scene was. Donavan pushed the voice from his head however with a grin, taking a seat next to Faustino on the blanket and producing an envelope. “Sorry to have made you wait, Faustino, I ran into someone I knew.” Donavan smiled apologetically. “But I got the photographs from Perceval.” He upended the envelope so that a modest pile of pictures feel out onto the blanket between them and grinned a little boarder, gesturing to the weapon. “And it looks like you didn’t need my help assembling it, after all. Nicely done.”
"It wasn't too hard!" Faustino replied cheerfully. Ignoring the pictures for a moment, he smiled up at Donavan. "I'm glad you're home! I missed you." Setting aside the rifle, he hugged Donavan warmly before sitting back, motioning to the food. "I waited for you to eat, so help yourself! The servants here are most pretty nice, once you threaten them." Smiling cheerfully, he then looked back to the pictures. "And I'm ready to look at those, when you are!"
Eliana followed D'Aubigne back to a large manor, and watched him go inside. She stood, semi-concealed by the bushes for a few minutes, not knowing what to do, before deciding to try and go around back. Maybe, there would be someone there, or some hint as to where Faustino was.
Sure enough, Faustino was there, and Eliana almost broke down into tears just seeing her son again, perfectly well. It seemed as if nothing was wrong; in fact, he looked healthy and was lavishly dressed, much to Eliana's surprise. She only had a moment to be relieved, however, before she came to the sudden realization that sitting on her son's lap was a large rifle. Before she could even be upset about that, however, D'Aubigne reappeared, grinning at Faustino. Eliana was simply stunned beyond words, but she forced herself to watch on, to find out what had become of her boy.
At Faustino’s suggestion, Donavan helped himself to an orange and began peeling it thoughtfully. “I’m glad they’re being obedient.” Donavan nodded. “The butler, though, has to go. He knows that you were the one that killed the man who used to live here, and he keeps asking questions.” Donavan said darkly. “He doesn’t have enough respect for you, so I think we should use him as an example to the other servants. What do you think?” They could get back to the pictures later; the more pressing matter was the way Faustino would decide to settle the matter, and Donavan was eager to see just how his training was beginning to shape him.
Faustino bit his lip worriedly, thinking. "Do you think he might try to hurt us, Donavan?" he asked carefully, looking up into Donavan's eyes. He really hated the idea of killing someone unless he or she was really a threat, but Donavan seemed to think that this servant needed to go, and he knew Donavan always knew best. "If you think it's the best thing, then I'll take him out, okay?" He smiled slightly, fingering the new gun that Donavan had bought him, as a gift. "Besides, I kind of want to try this out."
Eliana couldn't believe what she was hearing. Her son, kill anyone? It was impossible! There was no way this could be the truth, and yet she could think of no other explanation, and she had no other option but to keep listening and to hope that it really wasn't true.
“I think it’s what has to be done.” Donavan said solemnly, splitting the peeled orange in half and passing a part of it to Faustino. “It’s a real nice one,” Donavan commented, gesturing to the weapon in Faustino’s lap. “There’s hardly any kick back if you use the stand, and the scope is really powerful and crystal clear. I think this is the perfect opportunity to give it a try.” He smirked, popping an orange segment into his mouth. “The old guy’s bound to walk past one of the windows, and when he does, you can nail him.” Donavan laughed lightly and picked up a pair of binoculars that they’d left out for bird watching. “One of us will spot him eventually, but in the mean time, do you want to take a look at these pictures?”
"Okay," Faustino agreed, accepting his half of the orange and taking a bite. "I'm supposed to be telling which one is the queen, and which one is her double, right?" He looked at the stack Donavan was now holding. "Why'm I doing this again, Donavan? I mean... I know you know best, but I just don't understand."
So that was it. This man—she couldn't believe she had trusted him!—was making her son, her little boy, into a killer! She could hardly bear the thought, but something compelled her to keep listening, and besides, she didn't want to leave Faustino yet, not if she didn't have to. Straining to listen, she tried to figure out what was going on, what else this criminal was doing to her poor child.
“It’s good to know a fake when you see one.” Donavan said enigmatically with a smirk, pausing in his orange-eating to look up at the house through his binoculars in search of the butler. He wasn’t at any of the windows facing the back, not yet, so Donavan turned back to Faustino. “Besides, if this one were to die,” Donavan said casually, gesturing to one of the photos of the Queen’s double, “the real one would just keep on hurting innocent people, like your father, and keep looking for people like us and your mother. Hopefully, someday someone will put a stop to her, and when that time comes, they better know which one is which. Everyone should be able to tell, don’t you think? Then she wouldn’t be able to continue because she wouldn’t have the fake to hide behind.”
"Oh, okay," Faustino replied nodding firmly, "That makes sense. That wicked queen deserves to die! I hate her. I wish I could be the one to kill her!" He frowned. "I want to practice telling them apart. That way maybe I can be the one to kill her, and get her back for what she did to my daddy, and for what she wants to do to you, Donavan."
Eliana's eyes widened in terror. It couldn't be... they were training her son as an assassin to kill the queen?! It was true that she hated the queen, but her son couldn't be an assassin! She was hating this wicked man more and more by the minute, but more, she was hating herself, for trusting him. Still, she had to stay, she couldn't leave her boy, no matter how irrational it was.
“I hate her too,” Donavan agreed slowly, concealing his pleasure at Faustino’s response with a serious expression. “It’s a good plan, though,” Donavan agreed after a moment, smiling again in spite of himself. “I’ll teach you to know the difference. No one’s even been able to get close enough to kill her, though…” Donavan paused, reaching for an apple and taking out his dagger to slice it. “I bet that if giving the chance, you could do it. I have every confidence in your ability.” His expression softened to one of both pride and fondness, and he leaned forward, gently placing a kiss on Faustino’s forehead.
"I won't let you down, Donavan!" Faustino replied earnestly. "I'll do whatever it takes, because I love you. So show me the pictures, I want to be ready!"
Eliana's jaw dropped, and she stared, more and more disgust twisting in her stomach. What had this man done to her boy, and what was he doing? As if it wasn't enough that he had taught him to kill... but no, he was using him that way, too?! Eliana could cry, but she held it back, even now. She couldn't tear herself away, despite the threat of being caught and all the terrible things she had seen. She wanted to be with her son, even if she couldn't protect him from the terrible things she had caused for him.
“I know I can count on you,” Donavan grinned, straightening the stack of photos and selecting one of the Queen and one of her double. On a whim, however, he decided first to check the windows, just in case. Sure enough, upon inspection, Donavan spotted the man he’d been looking for. “Faustino!” He said excitedly, “there he is—the third floor bedroom two windows from the eastern most wall.” There was a maid in the room with him, no doubt they were still working on cleaning the house and removing all traces of Laurent D’Aubigne. They didn’t have many more rooms to do, and the removal of his father’s loyal butler was one of the last steps in the total purge of the house. Donavan smirked, setting his binoculars down to watch as Faustino stretched out on the blanket and peered through the high-powered scope. “Do you see him?” Donavan asked excitedly.
Looking through the scope of the gun, Faustino spotted the man as well, and nodded. "I see him, Donavan. I can get him from here, I bet." Moving back, he turned back to Donavan. "Should I kill him now, Donavan? I can do it. Should I shoot him now?"
Donavan paused, as if considering, though he’d already made up his mind. “Yes, if you think you have the shot, take it. Who knows what that guy would try to do to us if we left him alive.” Donavan said casually, though he knew it was just the sort of encouragement Faustino needed to pull the trigger.
Faustino nodded, understanding the seriousness of the situation. Staring into the scope of the gun, he aimed for the man walking, unknowing of his imminent death, inside. He took his time since he had it, aiming carefully before holding his breath and pulling the trigger. He watched with satisfaction as the bullet hit the target and the man fell, certainly dead from the bullet to his head. Smiling, he turned back to Donavan, climbing into his lap. "Was that okay, Donavan? He's dead for sure now." He smiled sweetly up at Donavan. "And thank you so much for the gun Donavan, it's really nice, I like it a lot."
Eliana stepped away from the gate, staring off dazedly. She couldn't believe it... but she had just seen it herself. She had seen her son kill. And the way he was acting towards that horrible man... what had he done to her poor boy?! She couldn't take it anymore, she turned to run, stumbling in the bushes as she went. She couldn't bring herself to care about the noise she was making, however; she was distraught.
“Nice shot!” Donavan took his fingers out of his ear and grinned, waiting for the maid to scream. She did, and he picked up his binoculars to survey the damage. There was only a tiny hole in the glass of the upstairs window, and though it was shattered, he could still make out the distinct form of the maid kneeling over what he assumed was the body. Donavan lowered his binoculars and turned to Faustino, his grin broadening. “I’m glad you like it, it’s the best on the mar—” Donavan stopped, mid sentence, and spun around, getting to his feet. He’d distinctly heard someone, or something, and he fumbled for his binoculars, peering around the side of the house in the direction he’d heard the noise. Sure enough, there was a woman, dashing around the side and out of sight. He dropped the binoculars and took off, turning back to Faustino. “Stay here, I’ll be right back!” It was Eliana Esparanza, he knew it, and if she’d seen all that had just gone on, it could spell disaster for Algernon’s plan. He had to stop her, and he had to let Algernon know what had happened.
Claimer: Ours.
Rating: R for killing
Warnings: violence, BL, shota if you're looking, language, etc.
Beta:
wearenotaskitz is happy that this chapter is so Donavan-tastic!Donavan strummed the steering wheel impatiently, straining to see Faustino as he looked out over the manicured lawn of his father’s estate. Faustino had concealed himself in the hedges lining the drive and was entirely invisible, but Donavan couldn’t help but continue to look for him anxiously. Any minute now, his father would appear at the door and walk, unsuspecting, to his waiting automobile. He had a meeting with some of the top members of his faction of the Berceuse Malheureuse, but, if all went according to plan, it would be a meeting he would ultimately not attend.
Faustino was demonstrating his killing prowess once more for Algernon as proof of how far he’d come and just how deadly he now was. Laurent D’Aubgine, Donavan’s father and the leader of the rival faction of the Berceuse Malheureuse, was his target.
Donavan squirmed in his seat, sweating as his heart raced with anxiety. He was concerned about Faustino, about his safety and all the variables—so many things could go wrong, and Donavan knew that on this trial run, like the real mission, there would be no second chances. Additionally, in spite of everything, guilt plagued him; it had been his decision that his father should be Faustino’s target, and while his father’s assassination would prove to be extremely advantageous to his position in the Berceuse Malheureuse, it still didn’t change the fact that Donavan had ordered a hit on his own father.
They’d never been close; in fact, since Donavan joined the Berceuse Malheureuse and later split the group, it had been all but war between he and his father. They hadn’t spoken face to face in over four years, and yet, Donavan couldn’t suppress the guilt. But soon, it would all be over, and soon, thanks to Faustino, the entire Berceuse Malheureuse would be under his control. Donavan forced a grin to his lips and turned to Algernon, acting smug and expressing the pride for Faustino that he truly felt. “It’ll just be a few more minutes, I’m sure.”
“I should hope so.” Perceval whined from the backseat, moving his hair off of the back of his neck in an effort to combat the stifling heat of the automobile’s interior.
Faustino knelt in wait, peering through the bushes at the door of the manor. Soon, Donavan had told him, a man would emerge, and he was to kill that man. Faustino had no qualms with this, as Donavan had explained that this man had been cruel to him in the past and was keeping him from important things, and was not, for the most part, worried. After all, he had killed everyone Donavan had asked him to kill before, so why should this time be a problem? As always, he had some pre-assassination jitters, but that was to be expected. He swallowed, leaning forward a little and staring at the door.
It felt like ages, but all of a sudden, the door opened and a man strode out. This must be him, and as he passed, Faustino sprung out from his hiding place, aiming his pistol at the man's head and hesitating only a second before firing. He watched as it hit, as the man collapsed, as blood flowed forth, and he smiled, pleased with himself. The man had no idea what hit him, and Faustino moved forward to nudge the corpse with his toe. It was indeed lifeless, and his smile widened. Waving to Donavan with a grin, he re-holstered his pistol and took a few steps forward, calling, "I did it!"
Donavan jumped out of the automobile quickly, grinning happily in spite of how fast his heart was beating. He hadn’t watched the kill; for the first time in his life, he’d closed his eyes before the gun was fired. Laurent D’Aubigne was dead—the family house now belonged to him, and the entirety of the Berceuse Malheureuse was his for the taking. He would rejoice and celebrate with Faustino, because to him, the death of his father was merely the removal of an obstacle.
Servants employed by the D’Aubignes knew better than to investigate a gunshot. They always hid, fearful of losing their jobs or their lives, and so there was little to worry about. Donavan knew that sooner or later, one would emerge, spot the blood that was now pooling in the drive, clean it, and retreat with no questions asked. Later, Donavan would explain what had happened, and after the manor was thoroughly cleaned and the stench of his father’s hedonistic lifestyle had been purged, he and Faustino could move in.
Donavan looked over his shoulder briefly to see both Algernon and Perceval get out of the automobile, but did not wait for them before hurrying to Faustino’s side and scooping him into his arms. “You did so well!” He praised, squeezing him tightly. Donavan was determined to ignore any and all comments Perceval made regarding the affection he showed Faustino. Their relationship was not his business, and since it was perfectly platonic, Donavan did not need to acknowledge any comments about it.
"Yay!" Faustino cried happily, wrapping his arms around Donavan's neck and planting a kiss on his cheek. "I did it all right, then?" he asked cheerfully, smiling at Donavan. "I'm so happy! Everything's going to be really easy for you now, right? I want to make you happy, Donavan!"
Algernon strolled leisurely towards Donavan and the child, allowing them their little happy time before interrupting with a smile. "May I commend you on your kill, Master Esparanza? It was really quite excellent."
"Thank you, sir," Faustino replied happily, sparing Algernon only a moment before turning back to Donavan.
Donavan smirked, taking in the praise Faustino had received and swelling all the more with pride. “Yes,” he replied, returning the kiss with a peck on the forehead, “I just have to do one quick errand, and everything will be set.” Donavan ignored the face Perceval was making at him, and continued, praising Faustino lavishly. “Thanks to you, that horrible man is dead, and that means I can have my house—this house—back; you and I can move in soon. What do you think?” Donavan asked, turning so that they could both look at the elegant, though slightly modest estate.
"Oh, really?" Faustino asked eagerly. "We get to live here, Donavan? I'm so excited!" He hugged Donavan happily, resting his head against Donavan's shoulder contentedly.
"Well, I wouldn't want to hold you back from your errand," Algernon cut in with a smile. "M. D'Aubigne, I'll be meeting with you later in order to discuss plans. You'll be contacted." And, with a nod to the boy, he turned on his heel, grinning to himself at how excellently well his plan was coming together. "Come, Percy," he beckoned, amused by Perceval's scowl of disgust at Donavan and the little boy. "I'll treat you to lunch."
“Good, I’m looking forward to hearing the details.” Donavan turned back to Algernon and nodded, returning the smile with a smirk.
Perceval shot one last disapproving look at his cousin and the child-assassin before hurrying to join Algernon, perking up considerably at the thought of spending more time with just Algernon, and at a restaurant for lunch, no less. Yes, he could put up with going to see the little Esparanza boy, if only to keep Donavan and Algernon from being alone together and he could hold his tongue while Donavan spoiled the boy, further developing the very unhealthy relationship the two already had, if he knew that Algernon would treat him afterwards. Indeed, Perceval could endure anything for Algernon.
With their audience gone, Donavan set Faustino down gently and knelt by the body, inspecting the bullet wound. “Good clean shot,” he commented, glancing up at Faustino. “It went straight though. Very nice.” Looking down once more, Donavan shut the eyes that hadn’t closed in his father’s final seconds of life, illustrating just how suddenly death had come. Donavan was beginning to feel a little sick to his stomach the more he thought about the fact that his father was dead on his orders, and sucked in a breath through his teeth, trying not to think about it anymore. The last thing he wanted was for Faustino to think he felt any remorse, because he didn’t. He felt only relief, relief tinged both with guilt and excitement.
Donavan stood abruptly and went around to the rear of the automobile, opening the trunk before returning to the body. “We need this for my errand,” Donavan explained to Faustino as he knelt to lift the corpse. It was limp and heavy, and the smell and dead weight of it disgusted Donavan. There was blood all over it, and as much as Donavan tried, he couldn’t keep from getting it all over his hands, sleeves, and vest. Still, he managed to fit it into the trunk, and wiped his hands off before opening the door for Faustino on his way to the driver’s seat. “Ready?” Donavan asked with a grin, before sliding inside his father’s luxury automobile, savoring the feeling of power he’d only experienced once before in his youth when he’d stolen the car and taken it for a joyride around the block.
Faustino nodded. "I'm ready," he replied, situating himself in the plush leather seat. "But... Donavan, what exactly is the errand...? And...why do we need the dead body?" He was still a little vague on the plan, and though he wanted to do whatever Donavan wanted him to do, he wanted to know what it was he was doing.
“The guy in the back,” Donavan smirked, gesturing in the direction of the trunk, “Was on his way to a very important meeting of his. I’ve decided to go instead of him, and I need to take his body as proof that he’s dead.” Donavan explained with a glance to Faustino. “He’s a very important man, you see, and now that he’s dead, I can take his place.”
"Oh!" Faustino replied, "So now you can get everything that was his, right? I'm so glad!" He smiled, sitting back into his seat contentedly. Whatever he had to do, he would make sure that Donavan got what he deserved, no matter what.
Donavan smiled and sped forward. Laurent D’Aubigne was already late to his meeting, and Donavan wanted to make sure no one came looking for him. It was important that all of the top members of the other faction were present when Donavan made his appearance with Faustino at his side and his father’s body as proof of the fact that they were responsible for his death. He hoped everything would run smoothly and according to plan, but Donavan knew that if anything went wrong, Faustino would have his back.
Donavan pulled up to the place the meeting was to be held, a sketchy looking bar and inn located on the outskirts of town, and opened his door slowly, looking for sentries. Whatever guards were on duty had recognized the automobile, and hopefully they wouldn’t attack for that reason. Donavan stepped out carefully, waited a moment, and when no one confronted him and no alarm was sounded, he grinned, and went around to Faustino’s door. “Stay alert, Faustino,” Donavan instructed him, leading him around to the trunk. “I’ll take care of this,” Donavan gestured to the body, “if you stay on guard. I’m counting on you if anyone does anything dangerous.”
Faustino nodded, keeping a hand on his pistol on his hip. "I'll do my best," he replied, scrunching his nose a little at the dead body. Following Donavan, he took his gun into his hands, holding it close to his body so as not to look suspicious, looking around and doing his best to make sure Donavan stayed safe.
Donavan reached the door of the inn and propped the body up against the wall, knocking lightly on the door. It opened just a crack, and a guard peered out. “It’s D’Aubigne.” Donavan said gruffly, sounding like his father. The door swung open, and leaving the body temporarily, Donavan stepped inside to deal with the guard, who froze upon seeing him. “Hello there.” Donavan greeted warmly. “Laurent met with an unfortunate accident today and won’t be coming. If you wouldn’t mind leaving, I’d appreciate it.” Donavan knew that the key to controlling grunts like the guard was money. Carefully, he slipped the man a wad of bills, then gestured to the door. The hired guard glanced down at the payoff, then bowed deeply to Donavan, backing out of the door and only pausing a moment to eye Faustino suspiciously.
Donavan watched him make his way out down the road and disappear, before smiling to Faustino, and signaling that he should be ready. Once again, Donavan hoisted the body into his arms, this time taking it inside and kicking open the door through which he could hear the voices of his father’s retainers. “Sorry to interrupt,” Donavan announced loudly, obviously not sorry in the slightest as everyone in the room turned to him in shock. Smirking broadly, Donavan dropped the body onto the table around which everyone was seated, knocking over glasses of ale and causing all the men to jump back in both surprise and disgust. “Thank you for waiting so patiently for you leader to arrive before beginning the meeting. I suppose that since I’m here, you can go ahead and start now.”
The men all stared at Donavan in disbelief for a moment, and Faustino felt proud to be with him as they all struggled to recover from the shock. He was glad he was on Donavan's side, because Donavan certainly deserved to be the leader, and Donavan would definitely end up on top.
After a moment, however, one man, it seemed, broke out of his shock, and an angry expression took over his features. "How could you--?" he demanded, growling at Donavan as he lunged forward. His heart skipping a beat, Faustino wasted no time in firing at the man's head, and was pleased to find that he had killed him instantly. The man fell to the ground, causing even more of a bloody mess after what the corpse has done. Faustino cast about the room, glaring gravely, daring anyone else to try to hurt Donavan. If they did, he would kill them without hesitation, and now he had made that clear.
Donavan’s smirk widened as he surveyed Faustino’s work proudly. The remaining men got to their feet quickly, reaching for their weapons, but Donavan stayed calm. “Allow me to introduce my protégé, Master Esparanza. Please understand that he won’t hesitate to kill any of you if you do so much as move too quickly. Now, take a seat.” The men sat, all of them looking rather terrified and glancing from one another. “Both the bodies you see before you are examples of his work,” Donavan explained, “so you would do well not to underestimate him.” Smiling, he pulled up a chair. “Now then, on to business.”
Corinne was walking down the hall, headed home, briefcase in hand, when she noticed her least favourite person walking straight at her, the other way down the hall. Rolling her eyes, she tried hard to ignore her, she really did, but no, the Warrant Officer just had to pick a fight. "Oh, you're still around?"
Corinne clenched her jaw. "The same could be said for you, Warrant Officer. I thought you considered this an inappropriate workplace for someone like yourself." Okay, so she shouldn't have picked a fight. She shouldn't have. But Alice had started it! It wasn't really her fault!
Alice stuck up her nose at that stupid Lt. Colonel. "I'm sacrificing myself for a worthy cause," she replied snootily, shooting Corinne a haughty look. That bitch would never be able to understand how she was helping Algernon in all of his glory to take over the country, but Alice still felt she had the right to gloat.
Corinne rolled her eyes again. "Oh, I'm sure you're doing something very worthy. What department were you in again? Records and Information Repository, was it?" She smirked. "Some important papers you were filing, I'm sure. What would the military do without you?"
Alice glowered. "Why thank you, Lt. Colonel, but that's not the important work of which I'm speaking." She cleared her throat, shifting her weight into one hip to make herself appear all the more impressive. "I am helping to get that dreadful queen out of power so that someone much better and much more suited can rule this country."
Corinne's eyes widened, and she blinked speechless. Had the Warrant Officer really just said that? "You're kidding... right?"
"Hah! Not so high and mighty now, are you, Lt. Colonel! Good day!" And with that, Alice strutted off.
Julian nearly dropped the stack of paper he was carrying when a red headed woman pushed passed him, apparently headed back inside headquarters for some reason or another. He’d seen her just moments earlier talking to the Lt. Colonel, who now stood looking quite puzzled. Julian wondered what had been said and hurried forward to his superior. “Sir, is everything all right? What did that enlisted woman want?”
Corinne broke out of her complete confusion and turned to see Kaiser walk up to her. "Hey, Kaiser..." she replied vaguely, lost in thought. What on earth could the Warrant Officer have meant? Helping to get the queen out of power... What did that even mean? And who was she helping? Some of her stupid girly friends? Who else did Alice Johnston spend time with? Arguing with herself? Or with the General? Why did she always argue with the General, anyway? What did they even have in common? They didn't work together...
And then it hit her. "Shit! Kaiser, have Hirlea and Christian left yet? We have to go find them, now!"
“What?” Julian asked confusedly. “I don’t know where they are,” he answered quickly, furrowing his brow. Julian followed the Lt. Colonel as she hurried from the building out into that parking lot as they looked for Niles and Dragomir. “What have you learned, sir?” He asked anxiously, keeping his voice low and staying right at her heels.
Corinne searched around frantically, but it seemed neither Hirlea nor Christian nor Christian's car were anywhere around, and so finally, exasperated, she returned to her own automobile, telling Kaiser to get in. She'd have to find some way to apologize to Viorica later for standing her up, and she still had to figure out exactly what was going on, but right now, she needed to tell what she had heard to the ones who actually seemed to have any idea of what was happening behind closed doors. "Do you know the way to Christian's house?" she asked Kaiser hurriedly, pulling out of the parking lot.
“Yes!” Julian said brightly. He still had no idea what could possibly be so pressing that the Lt. Colonel couldn’t wait until tomorrow to tell them, and he was still curious as to whether or not the redhead had had anything to do with it. “I’ll direct you, sir,” Julian added with a nod, taking his duty very seriously. Since he was going along for the ride, he knew that at least this time, he would be there for the explanation and would be able to offer his own opinion on the matter.
Driving with Kaiser was a harrowing experience, to say the least, but somehow, Corinne and the Captain made it to Hirlea and Christian's estate, and Corinne didn't even bother to pull into the drive, quickly parking on the street and hurrying towards the manor. Knocking loudly on the door, she called, "Hey, open up! I have something important!"
Niles peered over the servant's shoulder, seeing the Lt. Colonel and Julian waiting outside. "Oh, come in!" he called, waving cheerfully and sending the servant away. As they stepped inside, he lowered his voice somewhat. "You have something important? Come on into the parlour..." Ushering them in, he moved to the stairs, calling, "Hey, Dragomir! The Lt. Colonel and Julian are here!"
When only Niles greeted them at the door, Julian hoped that Dragomir was out; everything always seemed so much more pleasant and civil without the brut there to interrupt. He sighed with disappointment when Niles called for the dolt, though, and bleakly followed him to the parlor, resigned to the fact that Niles was never anywhere without Dragomir.
Dragomir descended the stairs hurriedly, knowing that the only reason the two would come over would be to share some knew information and hoping that because the Lt. Colonel was present, the data uncovered would actually be useful. He made his way to the parlor where Julian and Lt. Colonel Delancy were waiting with Niles and turned anxiously to his superior, hoping she was the one with the news.
Waiting for Hirlea to shut the door behind him, Corinne began, speaking hurriedly and as quietly as she could manage while being heard by everyone in the room. "The Commandant wants to take over the country, or at least someone does, because they're plotting to remove the Queen! I met someone in the hall today who isn't very bright, and she just blurted it out to me! I couldn't believe it, but... that's all I could make of it! The Commandant wants to take over power!"
Niles' eyes widened, and he gaped for a moment in disbelief before nodding. "...It all fits, then. The speech against the Queen, and the fact that we're not supposed to help her... Dragomir, do you think this is really it?" He was alarmed, but at the same time, excited to have this information- though there was nothing they could do about it, knowing was better than being in the dark.
“Who said that?” Julian asked, scandalized. He could believe that something devious involving the military and the Berceuse Malheureuse was occurring under the table, but to think that the plot could involve a military coup d’état? It was simply unbelievable! As much as he’d grown to dislike the Queen recently, the idea of her not being at the head of the government alarmed him, especially if a military take-over involved granting the Berceuse Malheureuse even more power. “How could anyone know something like that and be so flippant?”
For once, Julian had raised a valid point; why would someone known to be rather stupid be trusted with such information? But if indeed a coup was part of the plan, than whoever was orchestrating it was being very careful to paint the Queen in an unfavorable light. It certainly seemed like a very good strategy, and it could indeed be the Commandant’s ultimate goal—if in fact it was the Commandant pulling all the strings. “Maybe,” Dragomir bit his lip, turning to Niles. “But I have no idea how it could possibly be done. Everything has been managed so diplomatically so far, and while the manipulation that’s going on fits, there’s still no way to completely remove the Queen without…civil war or something.”
Niles nodded slowly. "Or... if he got everyone to dislike her, then he'd have everyone on his side... but how would he get her place? He couldn't just say, 'Excuse me, everyone likes me better, I'm Queen now,' or something..." He thought over it. "He'd have to wait for her to die, and even then, she'd probably have an heir..."
"Or," Corinne replied gravely, "he could have her killed."
Niles gasped, bringing his hands to his mouth. "That would explain—but do you really think—?" Even he was shocked at the idea, and couldn't decide what to make of it. But then again, nothing really seemed beyond the General Commandant, not, especially, if he was working with the Berceuse Malheureuse.
“That could explain why Donavan is training an assassin.” Dragomir finished what Niles had been too stunned to verbalize.
“Why does no one answer any of my questions?” Julian whined. “How could the Commandant possibly think of assassinating the Queen?” In spite of the truth in his previous statement, Julian tried again. “If he has her killed, he’ll be denounced! There’s no way anyone would support him in taking over the government!”
Dragomir turned to Julian gravely. “Don’t you get it? The assassin, the boy, is being trained by Donavan, tying him to the Berceuse Malheureuse, not the military, and certainly not the Commandant.” While they still didn’t know for sure that it was the Commandant organizing the takeover, if that’s what it really was, everything seemed quite clear now, clearer than it had ever been. “All this time, they’ve been working to make everyone hate the Royal family. I’m sure the plan is to manipulate people so that they basically thank him for taking power out of the hands of the Beaumonts.”
Niles sighed, slouching back into his chair. "This is all so..." he trailed, unable to even finish his sentence. "I don't even know what to think anymore. What are we supposed to do?"
"Wait, I suppose," Corinne supplied. "I don't know what else there is that we can do."
Eliana walked briskly down the street, barely looking around her, feeling sullen and alone. She hardly knew what to do with herself anymore, now that her son had been taken away from her, now that her own stupidity had gotten her into this terrible situation. She knew talking to the Commandant wouldn't help anything; he would never do something because she asked. She should never have trusted him in the first place... but what was done was done, and she didn't know if there was anything else she could do. She could only hope that General Mauvais really was telling her the truth, that Faustino really was safe and well, and that she would be able to see him soon. It was foolish, but it was the only thing she had to hold on to.
But then, all of a sudden, red hair caught her eye, and she looked up to see that man—D'Aubigne—walking down the street away from her. Her stomach knotted, and without a second thought, she broke into a run, chasing after him. Finally catching up, she caught his sleeve, not wanting to let him get away. "You! What have you done with my son?"
Donavan spun around quickly, and hand moving discreetly to the pistol at his side. He didn’t recognize the voice, and while he now had much more power within the Berceuse Malheureuse, the hit he’d put out on his own father had made him rather infamous, and he’d made many enemies. For a second, he wished he’d taken Faustino out with him on his errand; if anything were to become violent, Donavna knew he could count on Faustino to have his back. However, as soon as he caught sight of the person who’d stopped him, the relief that Faustino was back at their house practicing washed over him, and he was able smile genuinely.
“Madame Esparanza,” he crooned, slipping his arm out of her grasp and taking a few steps back so that he could bow lavishly to her. “It’s so wonderful to see you again!” he straightened, taking her hand and placing a kiss on it gently, his smile brightening as he became all the more involved in his act. “You’re very lucky to have such a wonderful son, Madame. It’s a shame he didn’t accompany me on this errand, though. He would have loved to see you, and I can assure you that you would be very glad to see how much he’s grown.” Donavan beamed with pride, choosing to ignore the accusatory tone she’d used. He knew that she had been informed by Algernon that she couldn’t see Faustino, but the character he was playing for her didn’t necessarily need to enforce that decision, not, of course, that he’d let her see her son.
"Then let me see him," Eliana replied, though her tone softened a little. Still she couldn't be taken in by this man again, no matter how trustworthy he seemed. He had taken her son away from her, and she had to get him back, no matter how charming M. D'Aubigne seemed. "I want to see my son. Take me to where you have him." She looked him directly in the eye, refusing to look away. She had to see Faustino, and this could be her only chance.
“I’m afraid, Madame,” Donavan frowned, looking down, “that I cannot allow you to be reunited at this time.” He furrowed his brow to show just how upset he was by the situation as well, even as he grew more and more pleased with how well she was responding to his act so far. Still, he had to get away from her and back to Faustino soon, or else he’d worry, and he absolutely could not allow her to see him, so he couldn’t play for too long.
"And why not?" Eliana demanded, her stomach twisting. No matter how he seemed, this man really was the one keeping her from her child, and she couldn't let her will soften. She had to find Faustino, had to bring him home, where he belonged, and protect him from anything these men might do to him. "He's my son. Let me see him." Her voice shook a little; as much as she tried to tell herself otherwise, she was worried for Faustino, even more so now that she was again kept from him.
“Surely the Commandant informed you?” Donavan asked, in mock surprise. At her look of concern, he allowed the smile to return to his lips as he continued. “Well, I’m certain you’ve already realized how exceptional your boy is, Madame. It would seem that the Commandant has as well, and that he has a lot of plans for your child.” Donavan paused a moment, considering. “Just as you have done such a great service for the Commandant and the country of Galia, our esteemed Commandant has deemed it only appropriate that Master Esparanza should continue in your footsteps as an ambassador.” Donavan was lying through his teeth and he loved it. Making up long winded stories on the spot for cover was one of his favorite tricks. “I’ve been tutoring him, and he has shown tremendous progress, but unfortunately, he is at a very important turning point in his studies now, and neither I nor the Commandant can allow such important work to be interrupted just yet by what is sure to be a most joyful reunion.” He bowed deeply, then stood, taking his hat into his hands. “And that, Madame, is why I beg your patience and indulgence for just a little bit longer. Soon you will have your son with you once again, but for just a few more weeks, I hope you’ll allow him to focus uninterrupted on his studies.”
Eliana bit her lip as M. D'Aubigne spoke, unsure of what to do. It would be so easy to believe him; he sounded so sincere and trustworthy, and she knew that her son was intelligent, that he was exceptional. But yet, she felt as if there was something a little too fishy about the whole situation, and though she wasn't sure what, she just couldn't quite believe. More than anything she just wanted to see Faustino again, but yet, it also seemed as if she would have no victory here. Maybe there would be some other way...
As she thought on a plan, Eliana nodded. "All right..." she accepted, not knowing what else to do. "Please let me know as soon as I may see him again." Perhaps, if she let the man go, she could follow, and at least see Faustino, confirm his story. Just to see that he was well and happy would be enough, if D'Aubigne spoke the truth.
“Of course, of course, Madame!” Donavan said emphatically, taking her hands into his assuringly. “Either myself or the Commandant will be in touch with you as soon as Faustino has completed his studies. I’m so sorry to keep you apart like this, but it really is for the best. For Faustino’s future.” Donavan nodded gravely, releasing her hands and looking up at her with a small smile. He didn’t know why, but he was getting the feeling that she wasn’t quite satisfied. “I’m very sorry, but you’ll have to excuse me. I have errand, I hope you can understand.”
"Of course," Eliana managed. "Good day." She forced herself to stand still as she watched D'Aubigne start off away from her, waiting until she could barely see him anymore before beginning again herself, striding as fast as she could after him, keeping him in her sight. She didn't know where he was going, but she followed as best she could. No matter where he went, she had to follow. It was for her son, after all, it was for Faustino. She had to find Faustino.
Donavan was already taking off his jacket as he hurried up the steps of his familial home and opened the door, barely stopping to take off his hat before rushing through the house to the backyard where Faustino was waiting, seated on a blanket, a rifle in his lap. To Donavan, the sight of Faustino with a gun that looked way too big for him surrounded by delicious looking picnic food was absolutly adorable, but a part of him could just hear the voice of his cousin, pointing out just how very unnatural the whole scene was. Donavan pushed the voice from his head however with a grin, taking a seat next to Faustino on the blanket and producing an envelope. “Sorry to have made you wait, Faustino, I ran into someone I knew.” Donavan smiled apologetically. “But I got the photographs from Perceval.” He upended the envelope so that a modest pile of pictures feel out onto the blanket between them and grinned a little boarder, gesturing to the weapon. “And it looks like you didn’t need my help assembling it, after all. Nicely done.”
"It wasn't too hard!" Faustino replied cheerfully. Ignoring the pictures for a moment, he smiled up at Donavan. "I'm glad you're home! I missed you." Setting aside the rifle, he hugged Donavan warmly before sitting back, motioning to the food. "I waited for you to eat, so help yourself! The servants here are most pretty nice, once you threaten them." Smiling cheerfully, he then looked back to the pictures. "And I'm ready to look at those, when you are!"
Eliana followed D'Aubigne back to a large manor, and watched him go inside. She stood, semi-concealed by the bushes for a few minutes, not knowing what to do, before deciding to try and go around back. Maybe, there would be someone there, or some hint as to where Faustino was.
Sure enough, Faustino was there, and Eliana almost broke down into tears just seeing her son again, perfectly well. It seemed as if nothing was wrong; in fact, he looked healthy and was lavishly dressed, much to Eliana's surprise. She only had a moment to be relieved, however, before she came to the sudden realization that sitting on her son's lap was a large rifle. Before she could even be upset about that, however, D'Aubigne reappeared, grinning at Faustino. Eliana was simply stunned beyond words, but she forced herself to watch on, to find out what had become of her boy.
At Faustino’s suggestion, Donavan helped himself to an orange and began peeling it thoughtfully. “I’m glad they’re being obedient.” Donavan nodded. “The butler, though, has to go. He knows that you were the one that killed the man who used to live here, and he keeps asking questions.” Donavan said darkly. “He doesn’t have enough respect for you, so I think we should use him as an example to the other servants. What do you think?” They could get back to the pictures later; the more pressing matter was the way Faustino would decide to settle the matter, and Donavan was eager to see just how his training was beginning to shape him.
Faustino bit his lip worriedly, thinking. "Do you think he might try to hurt us, Donavan?" he asked carefully, looking up into Donavan's eyes. He really hated the idea of killing someone unless he or she was really a threat, but Donavan seemed to think that this servant needed to go, and he knew Donavan always knew best. "If you think it's the best thing, then I'll take him out, okay?" He smiled slightly, fingering the new gun that Donavan had bought him, as a gift. "Besides, I kind of want to try this out."
Eliana couldn't believe what she was hearing. Her son, kill anyone? It was impossible! There was no way this could be the truth, and yet she could think of no other explanation, and she had no other option but to keep listening and to hope that it really wasn't true.
“I think it’s what has to be done.” Donavan said solemnly, splitting the peeled orange in half and passing a part of it to Faustino. “It’s a real nice one,” Donavan commented, gesturing to the weapon in Faustino’s lap. “There’s hardly any kick back if you use the stand, and the scope is really powerful and crystal clear. I think this is the perfect opportunity to give it a try.” He smirked, popping an orange segment into his mouth. “The old guy’s bound to walk past one of the windows, and when he does, you can nail him.” Donavan laughed lightly and picked up a pair of binoculars that they’d left out for bird watching. “One of us will spot him eventually, but in the mean time, do you want to take a look at these pictures?”
"Okay," Faustino agreed, accepting his half of the orange and taking a bite. "I'm supposed to be telling which one is the queen, and which one is her double, right?" He looked at the stack Donavan was now holding. "Why'm I doing this again, Donavan? I mean... I know you know best, but I just don't understand."
So that was it. This man—she couldn't believe she had trusted him!—was making her son, her little boy, into a killer! She could hardly bear the thought, but something compelled her to keep listening, and besides, she didn't want to leave Faustino yet, not if she didn't have to. Straining to listen, she tried to figure out what was going on, what else this criminal was doing to her poor child.
“It’s good to know a fake when you see one.” Donavan said enigmatically with a smirk, pausing in his orange-eating to look up at the house through his binoculars in search of the butler. He wasn’t at any of the windows facing the back, not yet, so Donavan turned back to Faustino. “Besides, if this one were to die,” Donavan said casually, gesturing to one of the photos of the Queen’s double, “the real one would just keep on hurting innocent people, like your father, and keep looking for people like us and your mother. Hopefully, someday someone will put a stop to her, and when that time comes, they better know which one is which. Everyone should be able to tell, don’t you think? Then she wouldn’t be able to continue because she wouldn’t have the fake to hide behind.”
"Oh, okay," Faustino replied nodding firmly, "That makes sense. That wicked queen deserves to die! I hate her. I wish I could be the one to kill her!" He frowned. "I want to practice telling them apart. That way maybe I can be the one to kill her, and get her back for what she did to my daddy, and for what she wants to do to you, Donavan."
Eliana's eyes widened in terror. It couldn't be... they were training her son as an assassin to kill the queen?! It was true that she hated the queen, but her son couldn't be an assassin! She was hating this wicked man more and more by the minute, but more, she was hating herself, for trusting him. Still, she had to stay, she couldn't leave her boy, no matter how irrational it was.
“I hate her too,” Donavan agreed slowly, concealing his pleasure at Faustino’s response with a serious expression. “It’s a good plan, though,” Donavan agreed after a moment, smiling again in spite of himself. “I’ll teach you to know the difference. No one’s even been able to get close enough to kill her, though…” Donavan paused, reaching for an apple and taking out his dagger to slice it. “I bet that if giving the chance, you could do it. I have every confidence in your ability.” His expression softened to one of both pride and fondness, and he leaned forward, gently placing a kiss on Faustino’s forehead.
"I won't let you down, Donavan!" Faustino replied earnestly. "I'll do whatever it takes, because I love you. So show me the pictures, I want to be ready!"
Eliana's jaw dropped, and she stared, more and more disgust twisting in her stomach. What had this man done to her boy, and what was he doing? As if it wasn't enough that he had taught him to kill... but no, he was using him that way, too?! Eliana could cry, but she held it back, even now. She couldn't tear herself away, despite the threat of being caught and all the terrible things she had seen. She wanted to be with her son, even if she couldn't protect him from the terrible things she had caused for him.
“I know I can count on you,” Donavan grinned, straightening the stack of photos and selecting one of the Queen and one of her double. On a whim, however, he decided first to check the windows, just in case. Sure enough, upon inspection, Donavan spotted the man he’d been looking for. “Faustino!” He said excitedly, “there he is—the third floor bedroom two windows from the eastern most wall.” There was a maid in the room with him, no doubt they were still working on cleaning the house and removing all traces of Laurent D’Aubigne. They didn’t have many more rooms to do, and the removal of his father’s loyal butler was one of the last steps in the total purge of the house. Donavan smirked, setting his binoculars down to watch as Faustino stretched out on the blanket and peered through the high-powered scope. “Do you see him?” Donavan asked excitedly.
Looking through the scope of the gun, Faustino spotted the man as well, and nodded. "I see him, Donavan. I can get him from here, I bet." Moving back, he turned back to Donavan. "Should I kill him now, Donavan? I can do it. Should I shoot him now?"
Donavan paused, as if considering, though he’d already made up his mind. “Yes, if you think you have the shot, take it. Who knows what that guy would try to do to us if we left him alive.” Donavan said casually, though he knew it was just the sort of encouragement Faustino needed to pull the trigger.
Faustino nodded, understanding the seriousness of the situation. Staring into the scope of the gun, he aimed for the man walking, unknowing of his imminent death, inside. He took his time since he had it, aiming carefully before holding his breath and pulling the trigger. He watched with satisfaction as the bullet hit the target and the man fell, certainly dead from the bullet to his head. Smiling, he turned back to Donavan, climbing into his lap. "Was that okay, Donavan? He's dead for sure now." He smiled sweetly up at Donavan. "And thank you so much for the gun Donavan, it's really nice, I like it a lot."
Eliana stepped away from the gate, staring off dazedly. She couldn't believe it... but she had just seen it herself. She had seen her son kill. And the way he was acting towards that horrible man... what had he done to her poor boy?! She couldn't take it anymore, she turned to run, stumbling in the bushes as she went. She couldn't bring herself to care about the noise she was making, however; she was distraught.
“Nice shot!” Donavan took his fingers out of his ear and grinned, waiting for the maid to scream. She did, and he picked up his binoculars to survey the damage. There was only a tiny hole in the glass of the upstairs window, and though it was shattered, he could still make out the distinct form of the maid kneeling over what he assumed was the body. Donavan lowered his binoculars and turned to Faustino, his grin broadening. “I’m glad you like it, it’s the best on the mar—” Donavan stopped, mid sentence, and spun around, getting to his feet. He’d distinctly heard someone, or something, and he fumbled for his binoculars, peering around the side of the house in the direction he’d heard the noise. Sure enough, there was a woman, dashing around the side and out of sight. He dropped the binoculars and took off, turning back to Faustino. “Stay here, I’ll be right back!” It was Eliana Esparanza, he knew it, and if she’d seen all that had just gone on, it could spell disaster for Algernon’s plan. He had to stop her, and he had to let Algernon know what had happened.
