Chapter 7: The Mission
(Celeste and Kai goes to meet Count Livre)
(Celeste)
Count.
(And she bows)
(Kai)
She nudged my side. Guess that means bow.
(Kai bows)
(Celeste)
Thank you for having us Count.
(Count Livre)
Thank you for coming, Your Grace. This is my daughter and Heir, Liza.
(Liza)
Your Grace.
(Count Livre)
And my right hand, Jack.
(Jack)
Your Grace.
(Celeste)
Kai, Heir to Count Rome.
(Kai's POV)
I hate these formalities.
(Count Livre)
Your Honor.
(Kai)
Count.
(Count Livre)
Let's move inside to my chamber.
(Celeste)
Of course.
(In the chamber)
(Count Livre)
I assume you know about our situation.
(Celeste)
Yes, we have been informed. Could you show us the room where the breach occured?
(Count Livre)
Yes of course. Liza will show you.
(Celeste)
Kai.
(Kai)
Of course, Your Grace.
(Liza)
Right this way.
(Kai and Liza leaves)
(Count Livre)
We really appreciate your help.
(Celeste)
Of course. Do you have any suspects?
(Count Livre)
A few, but non of us are powerful enough to manage that large amount of compulsion.
(Celeste)
That's why Kai is here.
(Meanwhile to Kai and Liza)
(Liza)
Leave us.
(The guard leaves)
(Liza)
This is where they broke in.
(Kai)
How did the person get past all the cameras.
(Liza)
They were temporary disabled.
(Kai)
What did they do in here?
(Liza)
Nothing. We couldn't find anything missing or deleted.
(Kai)
Who was guarding?
(Liza)
The guard who was here just now. He said he got called down and didn't see anyone. But he left it unguarded.
(Kai)
Bring him back in.
(Kai's POV)
They must have had help to get in. There's no way to get in undetected. What guard leaves his post like that. What are these people, retarded?
(Liza)
What are you doing?
(Kai)
You're going to answer my questions truthfully, aren't you?
(Guard)
I'll answer you truthfully.
(Liza)
I don't know what kind of rules you have at your place, but compulsion is forbidden here.
(Kai)
Why did you leave your post?
(Guard)
I got called down.
(Kai)
By your superior?
(Guard)
No.
(Kai)
Who ordered you to leave your post unguarded?
(Guard)
I don't know.
(Kai)
Why did you then?
(Guard)
I got payed.
(Liza)
What?
(Kai)
How much?
(Liza)
Does that matter?
(Kai)
How much did you get payed?
(Guard)
200 000.
(Kai)
How did you get the money?
(Guard)
Cash left outside my room.
(Kai)
You're going to go quietly and not make any resistance.
(Liza)
Guards! Seize him until further notice.
(Kai heads back to Celeste and Count)
(Liza)
Get back here!
(Celeste's POV)
Oh no, what did he do now?
(Celeste)
Is there something wrong?
(Liza)
He used compulsion on one of our guards.
(Celeste)
Kai?
(Kai)
It was the guard who was on watch when the break-in happened. And it turned out that he lied earlier.
(Count Livre)
How come?
(Kai)
He didn't get called down by one of your guys. He got payed to leave his post and lie.
(Count livre)
By who?
(Kai)
He didn't know. He got the money anonymously. He got payed 200 000, meaning it has to be someone with access to that kind of money.
(Liza)
Father, why aren't you chastising him?
(Kai)
Becau..
(Celeste)
Kai. Leave it to the Count.
(Count Livre)
You must be tired. Jack, show them to their room.
(Jack)
Of course, Count. Let's go through the exit behind you.
(Jack goes to show them their room)
(Jack)
I hope this will do. We apologize about the inconvenience but considering the short notice, we couldn't clean another room.
(Celeste)
That's alright. Thank you Jack.
(Jack)
Of course, Your Grace. Your Honor.
(Jack leaves the room)
(Celeste)
Did you really have to go and pick a fight with the Count's daughter 20 minutes after our arrival.
(Kai)
It's not my fault that she wasn't informed about what i was supposed to do here.
(Celeste)
I agree with you, but you were about to...
(Kai)
I know and i'm sorry.
(Celeste)
Don't interrupt me.
(Kai)
I apologize, Your Grace. I'll take the floor.
(Celeste)
We can take turns.
(Kai)
No need. I'll sleep on the floor.
(Celeste)
What do you think about their problem?
(Kai)
They don't even know what security is.
(Celeste)
He's your father's friend and we're doing them a favor.
(Kai)
I know, i know. Can we really trust them?
(Celeste)
What do you mean?
(Kai)
I just have a feeling that there's something wrong.
(Celeste)
Explain.
(Kai)
The daughter, her reaction when i used compulsion. Why wouldn't he tell his own daughter, the Heir, that i'm here for that exact reason?
(Celeste)
I reacted to that too. Jack seemed shocked too after you two left the room and the Count mentioned the compulsion.
(Kai)
Why wouldn't he tell the people closest to him?
(Celeste)
I don't know. We'll talk to the Count in the morning.
(Kai)
Sure.
(Celeste)
Am i boring you?
(Kai)
No, i just didn't get that much sleep last night.
(Celeste)
Don't get high and you won't have a problem. Get some sleep. I don't want you to be cranky tomorrow and accidentally snap her neck.
(Kai)
Can't say i haven't thought about it. Do you think Lexa's okay?
(Kai's POV)
She already knows i like her, no need to hide it.
(Celeste)
I'm sure she's fine. I asked Tyler to keep an eye out for her too. Don't worry. The sooner we get this problem fixed, the sooner we get to go home. Did you tell her about college?
(Kai)
Yeah, she was really happy about it. Thank you, for talking to him.
(Celeste)
We had already agreed to let her study, we just wanted a reaction out of you.
(Kai)
What? Are you serious?
(Celeste)
Yes. You walk around acting like you hate everyone and then this girl shows up. We needed you to express how you feel, since you refuse to see the counselor we have.
(Kai)
He's retarded.
(Celeste)
Watch it. We know you don't like psychologists so we wanted you to express yourself through anger. The Count didn't think it would work.
(Kai)
You two are evil.
(Celeste)
Yes. Now get some sleep, That's an order.
(Kai)
Yes ma'am.
(Next morning)
(Celeste's POV)
After all these years, he still can't wake up without an alarm clock.
(Celeste)
Kai.
(Kai)
Hm..
(Celeste)
You have 5 minutes to be dressed and ready. Don't make me come back in.
(Kai)
Great. It feels like i haven't slept at all. I hate it here.
(Kai's POV)
I want to go home..to Lexa. That kiss..it was a pure impulse thing but she kissed me back. That's gotta count for something, right? Let's get out, before she comes in and drags me out.
(Meanwhile at the Mansion)
(Vanessa's POV)
I can't believe they put me on babysitting duty. I have to stare at the screen and watch her boring paper so that she won't try to do something. Kai also asked me personally to watch out for her and help her with the blood. Or he didn't really ask me, he kind of ordered me as the Count's son. What's up with him lately?
(Vanessa)
Hey, what are you doing?
(Lexa)
I have to find a source on the internet. I won't do anything, i promise.
(Lexa's POV)
And i promised Kai. I'm just glad that i can study. I was about to lose my mind doing nothing at this place. Studying is exactly what i need to get my mind of...Kai.
(Lexa)
Um..i'm..
(Vanessa)
What?
(Lexa)
I'm kind of..could i get a..
(Vanessa)
Blood bag?
(Lexa)
Yeah, please?
(Vanessa)
Yeah, come on.
(Vanessa's POV)
Why is she always so shy? Grow a pair would you.
(They go to get a blood bag)
(Vanessa)
Let's go to the next room.
(They go to the next room)
(Lexa)
This is where people drink the blood bags?
(Vanessa)
Yeah. Where have you been drinking them? Where did Kai let you drink?
(Lexa)
Just out there in the kitchen.
(Vanessa)
Oh, well here is where we are supposed to do it. Here.
(Lexa)
Um..you should know that i'm not really that good at this.
(Vanessa)
You've had blood before, right?
(Lexa)
Yeah but i still get..i just wanted you to..know..
(Vanessa)
Don't worry i'm stronger than i look.
(Lexa)
Okay.
(Vanessa)
Here you go.
(Lexa's POV)
Oh God..I've never done this without Kai. Oh shit..focus. Remember what he said. I have to calm my.. I forgot everything the second i opened the bag. The smell..hm..
(Vanessa)
Hey, take it easier.
(Lexa)
Hm..
(Vanessa)
Slow down. Hey, you need to calm yourself.
(Lexa starts crying)
(Vanessa)
Oh, i didn't mean to upset you.
(Lexa)
No, i'm sorry.
(Vanessa)
Don't worry about it.
(Lexa)
I didn't mean for that to happen.
(Vanessa)
No worries, I've seen much worse.
(Lexa)
So people keep telling me.
(Vanessa)
Trust me, you're a saint compared to others. You really do have control and that's a compliment.
(Lexa)
Thanks.
(Vanessa)
Are you done studying?
(Lexa)
No, i'm just getting started.
(Vanessa)
How much do you study? Doesn't it ever end?
(Lexa)
No, not really and i have to do some extra too since I've fallen behind.
(Vanessa)
You've only been here a day and you've fallen behind already?
(Lexa)
A day is all it takes.
(Vanessa)
Then let's go back to the library.
(Lexa)
Sorry that you're stuck with me.
(Vanessa)
It's my job here.
(Lexa)
You're a guard right?
(Vanessa)
Yes i am.
(Lexa)
What do you do? I mean, what's your assignment?
(Vanessa)
We guard those of you who are in training and also the premises. Sometimes we get sent out on missions if it comes down to it. But mostly, we protect you guys from each other and yourselves.
(Lexa)
Wow, i didn't know. Do you get to decide what you want to do after your training is done?
(Vanessa)
We can request jobs but it's the Count who holds the final decision. But it's optional. We can go on and live our lives if we want.
(Lexa)
Did you want..to be a guard?
(Vanessa)
I didn't really have some place to go after, so when they offered me, i accepted.
(Lexa)
Oh..
(Vanessa)
Let's get your studying over with. And don't forget your practice that Kai told you to do.
(Lexa)
Right. Do you have to watch me on that too?
(Vanessa)
No, just when you're using the computer. If you're studying using books i don't have to be there.
(Lexa)
Oh, okay.
(Vanessa)
Let's go.
(Back to Kai and Celeste)
(Celeste)
Where are your daughter and right hand?
(Count Livre)
They had to be with their students this morning but they'll join us soon.
(Celeste)
I hope yesterday wasn't an issue. That is after all why we're here.
(Count Livre)
No, of course not.
(Celeste)
We just assumed that they would have known.
(Kai's POV)
Smooth there, Celeste.
(Count Livre)
Considering the sudden plans we made last night, Count Rome and i...
(Kai)
That was smooth too. They know how to throw insults at each other without actually saying it. But him, doubting her positing by saying that she isn't as high up as he is..not a smart move.
(Count Livre)
..There simply wasn't time for me to explain the whole situation to them.
(Celeste)
Of course, Count.
(Kai's POV)
I hate not being able to talk. I would have told him exactly what i think about that bullshit.
(Celeste)
Do you have the list of the people who have access to that kind of money?
(Count Livre)
Yes and the second list is the list of suspects that we had from earlier.
(Celeste)
Thank you, Kai.
(Count Livre)
These two.
(He gives the lists to Kai and Kai gives them to Celeste)
(Kai)
Here.. Your Grace.
(Kai's POV)
Shit, her face told me i'd pay for that later.
(Celeste)
Do you mind if we question some of these, Count?
(Count Livre)
Of course not, Your Grace. I'll make sure you'll get what you need. I'll go get Mike, who's going to follow you around and get you everything you need.
(Count Livre leaves)
(Celeste)
Behave, would you.
(Kai)
Sorry, Your Grace.
(Celeste)
Take a look at the list.
(Kai)
Are these..?
(Celeste)
Students, yes.
(Kai)
He thinks this is a student prank?
(Celeste)
He did. I think he's had a change of mind after yesterday.
(Kai)
His daughter, why doesn't she have a title? His right hand too. We both have titles.
(Celeste)
Every leader of a group is called Count, that you know. But our group has been around for centuries and we are considered some kind of royalty. It's up to the Count to decide who has a title and who doesn't. But they rarely hand out titles like we do, it's a sign of respect. Why do you ask now? You've met others before.
(Kai)
I don't know, i just never paid attention before.
(Celeste)
Did you have to wear the signature shirt?
(Kai)
I didn't know what to pack.
(Celeste)
So you chose that? Those shirts could be the worst decision the Count has made.
(Kai)
I think they look pretty good.
(Celeste)
You only think that because they bring out your muscles.
(Kai)
It worked on Lexa.
(Celeste)
I couldn't have been the shirt.
(Mike and the Count Livre comes into the room)
(Mike)
Your Grace, Your Honor. I'm sorry about the delay, i got caught up with one of my students.
(Celeste)
No worries.
(Count Livre)
Mike, make sure they get everything they need.
(Mike)
As you wish, Count.
(Count Livre)
I have to get to a meeting with a disobedient student. I will find you later, if that's alright?
(Celeste)
Of course, Count.
(Mike)
Where do you wish to go first, Your Grace?
(Celeste)
Does the students know about our arrival?
(Mike)
I think so, yes. Word tends to spread pretty fast around here.
(Celeste)
Can you take us to the place where students usually socialize?
(Mike)
Of course. That would be the front hall.
(Celeste)
And is there a place we could talk to them in private?
(Mike)
The parlor. Follow me, Your Grace.
(They follow Mike)
(Mike)
Here they are. Is there someone in particular you would like to speak to?
(Celeste)
Who do you think, Kai?
(Kai's POV)
Wait wait wait. I know Celeste. She doesn't want me to answer that.
(Kai)
Whoever you think we should talk to, Your Grace.
(Celeste's POV)
Good boy.
(Celeste)
Who is Terry?
(Mike)
The guy with a yellow jacket.
(Celeste)
And Mia?
(Mike)
The girl standing next to him.
(Celeste)
Could you bring them to the parlor, please?
(Mike)
Of course, Your Grace.
(Mike brings them to the parlor)
(Kai)
What's the plan?
(Celeste)
I'll talk to the girl and you talk to the boy. Don't use any compulsion at first. I want to know if they'd lie if given the opportunity.
(Kai)
What should i focus on?
(Celeste)
On the list it stood that they were suspects because they were known for pranks. get a sense of whether or not they could have done this.
(Kai)
Do you really trust me to interrogate someone? I'm known more for my compulsion.
(Celeste)
You're still under training here, Kai. This is one of the things you'll have to learn. Don't compel him. You'll do it to both of them later.
(Kai)
Got it.
(Celeste)
Your manners are really starting to irritate me.
(Kai)
Your Grace.
(Celeste and Kai heads to the parlor)
(Mike)
I'll wait outside, Your Grace.
(Celeste)
Thank you.
(Mike)
Answer all of their questions, Count's orders.
(Mia)
Okay.
(Celeste)
Don't worry, you're not in trouble.
(Mike leaves)
(Terry)
You're the royalties, right?
(Celeste)
We're not royalty, but yes we're ranked pretty high.
(Mia)
Wh..what do you want with us?
(Celeste)
We just want to ask you some questions, that's all. Kai, if you could..
(Kai)
Yes of course, Your Grace. Terry, we can move to the next room.
(Terry)
Okay.
(Kai and Terry moves to the next room)
(Celeste)
Mia, you can relax. You have done nothing wrong. How long have you been here?
(Mia)
6 months.
(Celeste)
We're you newly turned?
(Mia)
Yes, You..Your Grace.
(Celeste)
Do you have many friends here?
(Mia)
Yes, Your Grace.
(Celeste)
Do you like to joke around with them?
(Mia)
Yes, Your Grace.
(Celeste)
What do you usually do for fun?
(Mia)
We usually play in the garden.
(Celeste)
And is everyone nice here?
(Mia)
Ye..yes.
(Celeste)
Do you really think so?
(Celeste's POV)
She's hiding something.
(Mia)
Yes. Everyone are really nice..and..and stuff. We all do..do favors for each other.
(Mia starts crying)
(Celeste)
What kind of favors?
(Mia)
Diff..different ones.
(Meanwhile)
(Terry)
Am i in some kind of trouble?
(Kai)
Why would you think that?
(Terry)
Because i'm being interrogated by royalty.
(Kai)
I'm not really royal. And this isn't an interrogation. Does it feel like it?
(Terry)
Well, yeah. Your Honor.
(Kai)
I'm not really a fan of titles, you can just call me Kai you know. That girl, Mia, is she your girlfriend?
(Terry)
No, we..we're not allowed to have relationships.
(Kai)
But you like her?
(Terry)
Well..
(Kai)
Look at that, vampires can have feelings.
(Terry)
I don't have feelings for her.
(Kai)
If you say so. Do you spend much time together?
(Terry)
Yeah.
(Kai)
What do you usually do?
(Terry)
We usually just joke around.
(Kai)
Doing things you're not allowed? It's fun breaking the rules, trust me i know.
(Terry)
Yeah. (Laughs) Do you have a girlfriend?
(Kai)
No, not really. I think they should be done by now. We should head back.
(They head back to see Mia and Celeste)
(Celeste)
Got something?
(Kai)
Yeah, you?
(Celeste)
She's hiding something i want to know what.
(Mia)
Wh..what?
(Celeste)
Terry, maybe you should wait outside with Mike.
(Terry)
No, i won't leave her. She hasn't done anything wrong.
(Celeste)
I'm not saying she has. I just want Kai to talk to her for a bit.
(Terry)
I won't leave her with Kai or you.
(Kai)
Look, it's..
(Celeste)
Kai, be quiet.
(Kai)
No, wait.
(Celeste)
What?
(Kai)
He just wants to protect her. But it's fine, i just want to ask her the same questions i asked you. Just wait outside for 5 minutes.
(Terry leaves)
(Celeste)
We're going to talk about this later
(She crosses her arms)
(Kai's POV)
Can't wait.
(Celeste)
Do it.
(Kai)
You're going to answer our questions truthfully.
(Mia)
I'll answer your questions.
(Celeste)
What kind of favors do you do for each other?
(Mia)
It depends on who the favor is for.
(Celeste)
Who did you do a favor for recently.
(Mia)
The Count.
(Celeste and Kai surprised)
End of chapter
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