Chapter 384 - The Jester (2/2)
”Ohh, what is this,” he pointed the camera to the voice, ”-a plot-twist, could this be a hero!”
”Should I bother to answer that?” long black hair, a tight bodysuit with weapons at the ready, the bullets were but dust. ”What is the matter with you?” she asked with a smirk, ”-don't sell heroes so short,” in a flash, the camera fell to face the fight. Live, an epic show of power and skill ended with a bitter taste. She won the fight, ”-haha, get pranked,” the fight against a robot.
”Here's an interview,” displayed on the news, ”-from our correspondent at the port, take it away.”
”Hello, who would have thought a battle took place in this beautiful oceanic view. We have the privilege to interview the hero who saved the day,” it panned to the lady.
”What's your name?”
”Luna,” she replied calmly.
”Lady Luna, how did you know of the location?”
”It was a simple matter of being attentive. The purpose was to always serve the people. I'm just glad I made it in time. I do want to advise the population to be careful, there might be more attacks in the future, you never know.”
”Thank you for saving the hostages, I'm sure Alphia is grateful to have thee as it's guardian.” With a nod, she dove headfirst and disappeared. Social media blew up. The return of Luna trended as a topic all across. Her figure, height, and visage matched her recorded measurements. Speculation, rumors, a mystery served to skyrocket the popularity of she who saved the day. Needless to say, the higher-ups of the AHA were livid.
Massive gates opened to the sound of an engine, a lovely estate of modern-architecture and design posited itself against dusk. Dorino's mansion was a work of marvel. From lights to curtains and even the type of lamp installed, each fitted a particular theme.
Scheduled at 18:00, he made sure to come fifteen minutes before. Parked, Staxius's allure seized the wondering glances of men and women alike walking across the exquisite garden and cared yard.
”I'm glad you made it,” came Dorino with a smile.
”Tis my pleasure to do so,” nodded Staxius, ”-here,” he presented a box in which contained a very expensive signet ring, ”-a present for the troubles of discussing with Lady Amber.”
”You really shouldn't have,” with a grin, the jewelry was a perfect fit.
”I must have forgotten my manners,” quick to hold out a handshake, ”-I've yet to formally introduce myself, Dorino, tis a pleasure to make mine saviors acquaintance.”
”Staxius Haggard.”
”Please, make thyself comfortable, snacks and drinks are served in the ball-room, a butler shall escort thee there.”
”I'll find my way, thanks for the hospitality. I do wait patiently for our conversation later.”
”Yes, indeed, Sir Haggard, indeed we shall do so.”
Stepped inside the moderately large room for a mansion, there was an exceptional number of guests. Not ordinary folks either, people of high-class and prestige. Their mannerism spoke volumes, a setting more or less familiar to him. Not wanting to indulge, he walked confidently to a door leading to the veranda where rested a few tables and chairs.
”Excuse me,”
”Y-yes,”
”Do you mind if I smoke?”
”No, go ahead.”
A quick exchange to a lady who seemed to wait for something. Her visage was melancholic, her long-dress seemed to match her expression. Sat next table across, he puffed slowly and gently. Dressed with a suit brought from Arda, one worn during formal reception at the castle, it drew the eyes of many. The watch he wore was of a prodigious watchmaker. Moname was written in calligraphy on the dial.
Her partner came soon, a man with broad shoulders and elegance. The ring on their fingers as well as the intimacy was a telling sign of being engaged. Her smiles felt empty, forced weirdly. Not that she could have helped it, her face moved naturally to the handsome man.
”Excuse me,” said her partner, ”-would you kindly?”
”Yes, with pleasure,” he stood, ”-I'll excuse myself,” he returned inside where Dorino stood with a confused expression.
”Ah,” nodded, Dorino sprawled, ”-Sir Haggard, I had the gift appraised by a fellow friend, the gentleman on my right, and it seems that you might have made a mistake. This piece is valued over 500,000 Exa.”
”Sir Dorino,” smiled Staxius courteously, ”-there's no mistake. The gift is a mere token of my appreciation, after all, a good connection can be worth more than money.”