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There was a story once.
About insane King, wise but unstable Emperor and their shared love interest – Rose. King selfishly snatched Rose, looked after him, cherished and protected in ways he could. The Emperor was not fond of such an atrocity - he wanted Rose for himself, so he went to face the King and retreated to Rose. But once the Emperor got to Kingdom - he got sucked into the void of events inside Kings castle – strangest mind twisting games.
The Emperor became lover to both - the Rose and the King. Without realizing how it turned out this way. But all three were handsome, lands utter beauty. They devilishly swayed anyone or anything.
The heavy fog of lust in the castle was held by Ary – demon, bound by the King. Ary helped captivate Rose. Strangest messes and unpredictable whims that were allowed.
Days went on, things were getting mixed up, everything to possessiveness and madness. Becoming fiercely strange.
One day, Rose had thanked King and asked him to be released. Rose would like to go back to his 'normal life'. The one he had before meeting King, before coming in. Oh, Rose was naïve. Kings fury and yearn to possess made him dense. Unreasonable. It lead to a fight between King and the Emperor, as the Emperor supported Rose's freedom and will.
King ruined his own kingdom, putting it in ash and despair. Creating utter mess that was left for Rose to handle. The Emperor left to rule his lands and to protect what was left.
With an odd turn of events - Rose came to love King. That lead to Rose taking a step further into darkness and murdering King.
So be it death out of love or of madness. Ary the Demon, now helped out Rose. Guarding, staying by his side.
During that time the Emperor waited for Rose to awaken - come to the Emperor's side. His hope was futile. Later the Emperor's patience snapped – taking forces and an army, leading it to conquer Rose and his kingdom. At the end of the war, the Emperor found Rose on thorned throne – eyes filled with insanity, pleading his endless love to the deceased King.
Emperor tortured Rose for a long while. Eventually breaking Rose to bow to him, follow him, as well as belong. Yet at times Rose still went pleading about his strange love. Though not as much any more.
Story showed between lines - how Rose was first of all stolen by King, then 'tamed' by King. Even though Rose had not much liking towards King at first - time spent together made Rose get used to King, get accustomed to Kings created captivity - slowly falling into this fake love.
Little by little Rose found bits about King that were similar with Rose himself - that made King more humane. The love King had towards Rose went to great lengths to show his affection, odd, strange appreciation for Rose. Communicating better in between. Showing how they began to share emotions, feelings. But there were indeed secrets kept.
Incredibly, the insanity that King possessed was partially transmitted to Rose. Leading ultimately to King's gruesome death. Although the Emperor spent time with them - he wasn't deluded by magical farce. He was maddened in own ways, his flaws weren't on par with insanity.
And so, to understand: insanity spreads over onto a person of affection - if forced upon day and night. So that eventually there are two or more minds sharing the same 'reality' of insanity.
Due to the Emperor's lack of 'affection' towards Kings Insanity - Emperor kept being unfazed.
Love works in weird ways. Perhaps that is the moral of the story.
Yet so it happens that this story and morale has one more character. One always staying in the shadows. The most trusted, secret lover to Mad King - Witch.
Suffering from the whims of her beloved, she still endlessly hoped, as she was so faithful.
Eventually, she was the last to kiss the dead King goodbye, as blood tears came from her eyes. Her faithful devotion to the King, caused the world to crumble from within.
/Adrian
I was slowly pacing on my favourite path in the park. Enjoying the morning.
Noticing Merin waiting, sitting on the bench where I tended to relax after my walk.
But seeing her - that was a sign that no sitting is to be done, unless I want to ruin my morning.
Hope she was also appreciating the morning fog of this early hour, though knowing her - she hated the weather.
"Did you manage to sleep tonight, or did you select the path of becoming an insomniac?" – I asked coldly, as I approached Merin.
"That must come across as a revelation to you, but miraculously, actually, I sleep at night." - She let out, with her frustration and wish for conflict seeping through. - "Though right now I'm not here to discuss my sleeping issues with you, not that it bothers you, to begin with."
"That sure has to be of great importance - if you came out to meet me at such an early hour." – I kept on walking, as I spoke. She got up and followed me.
"We have few issues to clear up." - Her arrogant tone and eagerness for conflict are troublesome. - "What exactly happened during your meeting with Erick four weeks ago? AIO is spiking crazily, when it comes to him." – Merin was punching holes in the ground with her heels, as she walked.
"This is of no concern to you." – I cut her off. – "Why, is that the only reason for your appearance? How trifle. If you decide to walk with me - be silent. I'm still trying to enjoy my morning."
"You're a filthy, rude ape. Even though - my husband." – Merin fussed, but kept on walking.
This woman is so goddamn annoying. I sigh. Yes, it was me who made her say 'yes', not only in marriage issue, but in partnership as well. Though she developed a filthy character along the way.
Good enough to see her once every two months. I get tired of her too fast. Loud, irritable, badmouthing creatures and spouting pitiful crap. Yet this annoying person is crucial for my plan.
The chill of the morning air, the fog and silence - oh, how I appreciate silence. I stop for a moment - deeply inhaling the misty air. Next to me I hear Merin let out an annoyed sigh.
God, how this woman pisses me off.
In silence we make our way to the corner of the park with the exit from it. Parking lot with a single vehicle parked - my jeep. So she even took a taxi, not her car. I sigh.
"Let's talk over breakfast, shall we?" - I say, as I gesture towards my car.
Merin annoyingly gave a glance. She hated that there was the option of me leaving her here. To sort out her own way back. She stumbled to car, got in and shut the door with force.
She hated this obedience I requested, in order for her to get any answers she wanted from me.
We drove out into fields and forests, half an hour later reaching my well built mansion. Once the car was in underground parking, along with a dozen of other cars for me to daily select from, we walked up to the dining room, where I knew - breakfast awaited.
My butler greeted me, as I made my way through the hall to the dining room.
"At thirty past eight there's a meeting with the research facility. Doctor is eager to show his report. There's three interviews with photoshoots for magazines later. I scheduled lunch in 'Frosco'. Dinner is to be in the city, Grayton Hotel. Brandon requested an appointment. Should I confirm?" - Francis, a fine gent in his late forties, my butler, gave me a short overview of today's schedule.
"Please do. Message Trisha regarding the plans with Brandon. She's eager for him." - I simply answered, as I took a seat at the table.
After a short glance - I noticed Merins confused, then proud look, when she saw a set of breakfast for herself. I did message my butler on our way back.
A full breakfast course consisting of italian style omelette, thin pancakes, breakfast tea with shortcake, and a glass of juice. A finery executed and meticulously prepared by the staff that work for me.
"So, are you going to share about that Erick or not?" - Merin remarked, as she began to eat.
I felt myself restrained from the wish of kicking her out. It was, after all, my idea to have breakfast.
Cutting a piece of omelette and devouring it - fine taste. Once finished and rinsed with tea, I replied to the annoying stare Merin gave me.
"I spoke with him about David. Reminded of his attractions and issues of physical matter he has to sort out periodically. Also spoke about the girl that's staying at his place - Elyon, as I recall. We saw through the flaws of him giving away his ideas. Perhaps a bit excessively, to his co-workers and multitude of students. Which triggered the reaction within AIO. He should be with David now. – I calmly stated, as I started with pancakes.
Merin shifted her legs, boot heels scratching the floor. Her short red dress was too revealing, with her long chestnut hair barely covering that cleavage. So unsightly for her status and work.
"Are you sure that did not make the reaction go the opposite way? The AIO is spiking even higher. With this intensity rising - we might get to the problem of being discovered. Sure as hell we don't need that! You do know how risky it is within our environment!" – Merin raised her voice, expressing her ever growing concern.
Just why does she need to make drama out of everything? Especially when all is under control.
The sounds of swift footsteps were audible, like a little clatter. Sometimes it was nice to hear the buzz of maids and other staff taking care of the mansion.
I looked out the panel windows of the dining room into my garden. My favourite hydrangea and peonies are blooming closer to the windows. Just a fine aesthetic of colours and class.
Feeling Merins stare burning hole in my side, gave me a craving or ripping her eyes out. What an annoying thing she was.
Footsteps got closer to the door, then once opened - Francis entered inside.
"Lady N is here to see you. Should I invite her here, or do you wish to meet her afterwards in study?" - his calm demeanor and professionalism is the balm to my frustrations.
"Invite her over here. Bring coffee for the Lady." - I reply, picking up a tablet that's filled with notifications of news relatable to my work.
"Yes, sir." - Francis replies and walks out.
A moment later door opens once again. This time it's the guest. Her black and red hair messy, she seems dressed casually, with her ever so typical black leather jacket present. What a character.
She walks in, shortly noticing Merin at the table. Mischievous glistens in her eyes, as a smirk appears on Nikos face.
"Oh dear! Merin, haven't seen you in a while! Or is it that our dear Adrian is finally becoming a 'loving husband'? Hard to picture that, but guess love makes people change. Ha-ha! Although your short dress and those boots scream of cheap easy prey, which would suggest the situation otherwise. Have you changed your career yet? Would suit you more."
"You are as horrible as ever." – I looked at Niko, unable to hide the small smile that her remark made me let out. - "Take a seat, your coffee is on its way."
Niko took a seat at the table to my left. Merin sat to my right.
Sometimes I question my own decision making. Especially during times of the cold war between these two.
Merin hates Niko from the deepest depths of her heart. Another just likes to sarcastically and toxically remark the obvious poor choices Merin makes. Not that it bothers me. Merin just hates being called 'cheap' by Niko, so in protest and to convince otherwise she buys expensive luxurious items and wears them. Which even more lets Niko to be of greater amusement.
But knowing Merin - this reason to hate was one of many. She despises the latter.
Having them two in one space right now - was a sort of show for me.
"Adrian," - Niko looked at me, her voice cold, yet sarcasm blooming. - "Did you cut your wife's tongue? It's a miracle she's still silent."
I looked Niko in the eyes - yes, she was just killing time before coffee arrives. Then I looked at Merin, fuming with silent anger. Yet testing the level of her obedience is amusing. Therefore I speak to her.
"Merin, be nice and reply when spoken to."
"Fucking disgusting that you're taking her side!" - Merin hissed, watching Niko. - "I wish that you die a miserable lonely death, as rotting corpse will be fed to maggots. So that I'll never see that filthy face of yours ever again!"
"Oh, the tongue's intact. That's good to know." – Calmly replied Niko.
Francis came in, bringing coffee and placing it in front of Niko. Latter softly said 'thanks', with a smile. Francis gave a short nod, returning the smile, then left.
"Adrian, I am here to say that you have to reconcile with David." - Niko gave a cold glance, having some of that hot coffee. - "Be gentle. Also, regarding the observer Erick has – I took care of that. Most importantly - I'll go on a trip for some time. Duty calls, you know." - She finishes her coffee, as she's standing up. - "Do look that all stays intact."
"Understood." – I exhaled. – "Enjoy your time there, Niko."
Niko let out a chuckle, gave me a kiss on the cheek and left.
The moment Niko was out the door, Merin exploded with rage.
"This bitch! And you're telling me that you're the boss? She is fucking younger and bosses you around like a muppet! No respect towards you whatsoever! Rude bitch!" – Merin was throwing a tantrum. - "And how she dares talk to me, that insolent whore!"
I felt my cool reach the edge. Her filthy mouth spouting trash was getting my mood down.
That outburst of filth must be contained.
"You better shut up. If you keep on with these 'anger shows' - our divorce will be sorted in minutes. I do have respect for you, but if you keep it up - the last of it will fade. Niko is the key to our programme, unlike you. Wish to continue in such a frivolous filthy manner and you'll be disposed of. Without a trace."
I felt my own ice cold rage seep through. My cold gaze directed at furious Merin, made it clear that I do have a murdering intent, yet she is way too bashful.
"Just say it! Say it! Admit that you love that bitch! Admit it!" – Merin slapped her hand against the table. Her rage was beyond her. Eager to prove whatever point she made up in her head. What a foul temper.
"Yes, I love her." – I said without batting an eye. – "Will you shut up now? Your tantrums are not changing anything. Just makes you more of a miserable woman in my eyes, and the eyes of the others. Have some respect for yourself."
This disgusting wife of mine is greatly troublesome. Making me openly admit my love for Niko. Which is something I had to admit to self for a long while. Those feelings for her.
Though Merin took it as empty words thrown her way for her to shut up. She still will rage out at any opportunity she gets.
Such a lonely woman - trying to cope, by sleeping around, changing partners daily. Nothing that can satisfy her void.
Though, look at me - man in his late thirties, with model looks and downing own empty hollow in wine and whiskey, or, for that matter, any good alcohol.
Because I can't reach what I crave. Yet.
But here we are, at the breakfast table. In a marriage that was not meant to happen, made to cover the work needed. Though we still keep appearances for others. Nobody needs those 'exclusive' news. She, as daughter of the director of AIO, manages to cover up things finely - by bending the system to needs and wishes.Well, every world has its lies.
"I am still annoyed that she is the only one that physically is capable of going through ECHO." – Merin blurred out, as if remembering own science doctorate and work she does.
"Believe me," - I sigh. - "You should be deeply grateful that you're not her. She already became insane. ECHO messes you up, well, messed every other up. She just somehow got out alive, faking being fine. I would never in my life swap places with her. I had my little bite of that experiment. I would never try it again. But that also is what's appealing. How she keeps up being 'fine'."
" This bitch actually has her screws loose! Ha! Knowing this makes me happy in a way." – Merin downed her tea, leaving lipstick stain on her cup.
Then she got up to make a call and left, blowing a kiss. I watched her go. As doors closed behind - I exhaled, looked at my phone, then at the wall, then out the window.
"I'm tired of people, dragged into my hell with her." – I smacked my teaware from the table, making it fly against the wall - shattering to pieces.
My hand brushes over my forehead.
"Oh, how tiresome."
///
Engines roaring, mechanisms keep on blasting up, engineers run around like ants – panic is spreading bit by bit. AIO is reading out some code red disturbances. Engineering staff is doing best to computerise the data and find intel about the object of such drastic change.
Few seconds later the system shuts down, restarts and runs again without fail. All data, information and bits about faulty and code "red" – lost, all is deleted. Engineers - puzzled about such system occurrence. This bug is not the first time. Yet somehow it flicks up like crazy, making alarms blast out like sirens, and then it all shuts off like nothing happened.
No one can prove the problem, as there is no record left of it. On the system everything looks clean. In the research - engineers are left hanging. No matter what they say - without proof it's not going to go anywhere.