Bloody Negotiations
Chapter 04: Bloody Negotiations
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13th April 2008, Area 4,
"What's the situation, Brother?" I inquire, turning toward Brother Fox Eyes to seek clarity.
"The negotiations have broken down, and now they're making some ridiculous demands," Schneizel remarks with a weary sigh.
"Hmm? That's odd. We can negotiate any absurd demands they present," I say, tilting my head in puzzlement. "So, what exactly are they asking for?"
"They're insisting on reclaiming their nation," I raise an eyebrow. Well, that doesn't sound all that ridiculous; we've been grappling with this issue for quite a while now.
"And they're also demanding war reparations," The moment I hear those words, something within me snaps.
"Yeah, we are wiping those guys off the face of the earth," They want us to give them war reparations? Ha! In your dreams, you fuckers.
I turn my head toward my brother. "So, are you taking command of this operation?" I ask.
"I thought you were the one in command," he replies, his brow furrowing slightly as he studies the tactical map spread across the table.
"Why should I, brother? Isn't this crucial for your promotion? Just take command, and I'll follow your lead," I crack my neck, trying to relieve some of the stiffness that has settled in my shoulders from the tension in the room.
"What do you want in return?" Schneizel raises an eyebrow, his gaze piercing, as if he's trying to discern my ulterior motives.
"Send me to Japan for diplomatic work or something," I respond, my determination evident in my voice. "I need a vacation."
"Why specifically Japan?" He leans back in his chair, crossing his arms, clearly intrigued by my request.
"Because I've heard they have fantastic noodles," I reply with a lighthearted chuckle, hoping to inject a bit of humor into the otherwise serious atmosphere.
"Sometimes, I can't understand you, B," Schneizel glances over at where I'm sitting.
"I'm just that good, brother," I respond with a nonchalant shrug of my shoulders. "Now that I know you'll be taking command, I can finally rest easy." I stand up from my seat, offering a nod in his direction.
"Just one more thing," I'm already at the door when it dawns on me. I turn back to face my brother. "Please, promise me you won't assign me to the Knightmare unit," I add, my tone earnest and imploring.
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"So?" As soon as I step out of the room, Nonette, who was waiting outside, jumps right in.
"He'll be taking command of this operation," I reply as we walk together, side by side.
"You still not piloting a Knightmare?" Nonette asks, her concern showing.
"Not the right moment yet," I reply, playfully nudging her shoulder.
"I hope that moment comes sooner," she says with a touch of disastifaction.
"I hope so too," I chuckle, knowing it won't happen until two years later, after the war with Japan.
"Let's just focus on our battle tomorrow," I suggest.
"Take care, okay?" Nonette offers her parting words.
"Heh, who do you think you're talking to?" I retort with a grin, a hint of confidence in my tone.
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14th April 2008, 3:30 P.M, Area 4,
"Huh," I exclaim in amazement. I'm starting to wonder if we went too far with this operation.
The ground is littered with several corpses, some missing body parts, and the snow is stained a gruesome red with their blood. It's a horrifying sight. Five hours of battle reduced our opponents to this gruesome mess.
"They never stood a chance from the start," Nonette mutters from my side, and you know what? I agree with her.
Schneizel can be merciful at times, but when he decides to be merciless, scenes like this unfold. Just look at how he fired F.L.E.I.J.A without any remorse.
Yes, I kill without mercy, but only the top leaders. I allow the underlings to surrender if possible because not everyone is worthless. Many of them can find ways to contribute to the Holy Britannian Empire.
I scan the surroundings. We've exterminated them like pests, taking no prisoners. I admit I was prepared to engage in a bloodbath, but... this is just too much. Schneizel didn't allow them to surrender either. They were all gunned down, whether they were armed or not.
I'm starting to think I should become a member of the Knights of the Round, just in case I ever incur his wrath. You know, just to be safe.
If I become a Knight of the Round, I won't have to worry about him sending me on a suicide mission or suggesting one. The only one who can order me around will be the Emperor, or maybe the Knight of One.
"Hey, B?" Nonette's voice breaks through my thoughts. I gently hold her trembling hand, which she clutches tightly.
"Yes, N?" I reply.
"I am… no, I will become a member of the Knights of the Round," she says with unwavering determination. "I will put an end to conflicts without shedding this much blood," her eyes brim with resolve.
Have I successfully influenced her away from her canon self? I don't really know, as I haven't seen her talk in the anime. Perhaps I should have played Lost Colors and Lost Stories or maybe read Oz the Reflection manga. All I know are the stories of Renya and Akito.
"Then it should be my duty to appoint you as a knight, shouldn't it?" I smile gently at her.
"You don't have to, B," Nonette shakes her head. "People might say bad things about you," she adds with concern.
"For what? For abusing my authority? Please! Do I look like I care about their opinions?" I take her other hand in mine. "You're important to me, N, and I'll do my utmost to help you achieve your goal," She's my first and best friend, and I don't mind abusing my royal authority for her.
"Thank you, B," I almost stumble backward because of her sudden hug. How did this happen? I was sure I was holding her hands.
"I don't think we need formalities between us, N," Although it surprised me for a moment, I return her embrace. I'm sure it would be more romantic if we weren't surrounded by corpses.
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14th April 2008, 7:30 P.M., Area 4,
"I wish to bestow knighthood upon someone, Your Majesty," I state during a video call with the Emperor. While I can technically knight someone without informing the Emperor, considering his displeasure with my engagement, I believe it's better to inform him first.
"Nonette Enneagram, I presume?" Regardless of how I look at him, the Emperor exudes both majesty and intimidation. I can't help but feel like prey under his unwavering gaze.
"Yes, Your Majesty," I confirm with a nod, meeting his questioning gaze. "I believe Nonette Enneagram has made significant contributions to the Empire during today's operation, and I also have a recommendation from the leader of the operation," I add. Conversations with my father are never easy, but I must do my best for my friend.
A silence begins to creep over us, growing unsettling. The Emperor simply stares at me for a minute or two, saying nothing.
"I will grant your request," His decision fills me with happiness, yet I make an effort not to reveal it on my face.
"I am deeply grateful for your generosity, Your Majesty," I respond, offering a bow as a sign of respect.
"But!" His interjection nearly drains the blood from my face.
"Yes, Your Majesty?" I attempt to maintain my composure, hoping he doesn't hear the tremor in my voice.
"You must demonstrate your strength to earn my approval," My father's gaze remains fixed on me.
"What would you have me do to prove my strength, Your Majesty?" I keep my head lowered, concealing any expression I might be making.
"Show me your combat skills using a Knightmare," His request isn't overly daunting. Although it may complicate my promise to Eri, I believe I can find a solution. "Against a member of the Knights of the Round," I curse inwardly.
Why is he always picking on me? I'm fairly certain he doesn't meddle in the lives of his other princes. So why is it always me?
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Author's Note;
So, it looks like Ben is fucked. Will Ericht kill him for piloting other giant robots, or will he find a way to deal with it?
Nonette is determined to become a member of the Knights of the Round. Will she succeed before Ben beats her to it?
And why does Charles enjoy picking on him so much? Poor Ben. He might just need to find comfort in Nonette's boobies.