(Chapter 87 Stormwind)
"Welcome to Stormwind, Young Pasha."
Tempest said, his voice steady and full of authority as he stood at the bow of his Dreadnought. The wind tugged at his coat, and the vessel cut through the waves with an almost regal grace. Standing beside him was Nahida, her gaze wide and filled with wonder as she took in the sight of Stormwind Harbor emerging on the horizon.
"This... is your home?"
Nahida asked softly, her voice filled with awe as the grandeur of Stormwind unfolded before her eyes.
"Yes, Stormwind was gifted to the Proudmoore family long ago by Egeria herself. It was a gesture of gratitude, a reward for the Proudmoores' unwavering loyalty and service to her and to Fontaine."
Tempest said, his voice filled with a quiet reverence as he gazed at the approaching harbor.
"This place looks like it's preparing for... War."
Nahida observed, her soft voice tinged with unease as she took in the sight before her. Countless ships lined the harbor, their hulls in various stages of construction, while smoke billowed from the factories that dotted the shoreline. The sound of hammering metal echoed across the water, and the sight of three massive Dreadnoughts loomed in the distance, their towering forms undergoing repairs under the shadow of cranes and workers scurrying like ants.
"Maybe we are, Young Pasha."
He replied, his voice steady, but with a hint of something darker beneath the surface. He folded his arms, eyes narrowing as he looked out over the harbor.
"I intend to build the largest fleet Teyvat has ever seen. An armada so vast, so powerful, that it could rival even the forces of Snezhnaya. The Golden Armada will be unstoppable, not just a fleet but a symbol of Fontaine's pride. And it all begins here, in Stormwind."
Tempest continued, his tone carrying the weight of determination.
Nahida remained silent for a moment, sensing the scale of his aspirations. The enormity of the vision Tempest was weaving before her was both bold and daunting.
"And what will you do with such power?"
She asked softly, her voice laced with curiosity and concern.
"To protect, to strike fear... To conquer."
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'She's still offline... I was hoping to introduce her.'
Tempest remarked, his gaze lingering on Nahida's vessel seated beside the carriage as it made its way toward the mansion. The vessel appeared serene, with her eyes closed and arms gently resting on her lap.
'Did I say something wrong?'
Tempest wondered, his gaze returning to Nahida's vessel as it remained offline, unresponsive to their earlier conversation about the purpose of the Golden Armada. The mention of the word 'conquer' had elicited a noticeable reaction from her.
'Of course, I did. She's a pacifist, after all. I suppose I shouldn't be surprised. Well, let's hope that mindset shifts during her stay here.'
Tempest shook his head, frustration bubbling beneath the surface.
"I want to cuddle her so bad..."
Penance sighed dreamily, her gaze fixed on Nahida's inactive vessel. She sat beside Tempest, a hint of longing in her voice as she spoke. Having been one of the few who knew Nahida's true identity, alongside Hatsume and Faruzan.
"Just look at her."
Penance continued, a playful smile lighting up her face.
"She looks so soft and inviting, almost like a plush toy. I can't help but feel the urge to wrap my arms around her and keep her close. It's not just her appearance, there's something about her presence that feels so warm and comforting."
She leaned a bit closer, a sparkle of mischief in her eyes.
"Plus, I think she'd make a great cuddle buddy. Imagine the stories she could tell if she were awake! Her wisdom combined with that adorable demeanor would be the perfect combination for a cozy afternoon."
Penance moved from her seat beside Tempest and gracefully settled beside Nahida. With utmost care, she cradled Nahida's vessel, placing her head gently on her lap. Penance's touch was tender, her expression softening as she gazed down at the serene form before her.
"Be sure to call her Kusali, from now on."
Tempest instructed his voice firm yet gentle. He glanced down at Nahida, who remained peacefully nestled in Penance's lap.
"Mm, got it, brother."
Penance replied, her voice is soft and affectionate. She gently patted Nahida's head, her fingers brushing through the delicate strands of hair with a tender touch.
Shortly after, the carriage came to a halt, signaling their arrival at the Proudmoore mansion.
"Welcome home! Your Grace, Lady Penance!"
As Tempest stepped out of the carriage, followed closely by his Penance, a line of impeccably dressed butlers and maids stood at attention, their expressions a blend of respect and warmth. They greeted Tempest and Penance in unison.
"Thank you all for your hard work."
Tempest said, his tone genuine as he scanned the faces of those who had kept the mansion running in his absence.
"Should I bring Kusali?"
Penance asked Tempest.
"No, not just yet. I'll bring her inside once the courtyard is clear and the staff has settled."
Tempest shook his head gently, his expression thoughtful.
"Mm, got it, I'm going inside, I can't wait to show the pictures I got from Sumeru to Mother."
With that, she dashed off toward the mansion's entrance.
"What should we do with him, Your Grace?"
Falric called out. Tempest turned to see two knights escorting Stone, who shuffled along with his hands cuffed and a collar tightly strapped around his neck.
"Mm, let me test this."
Tempest said, pulling out a small device that the Director had given him before he left the Fontaine Research Institute.
Tempest pressed a button on the device. Suddenly, a jolt of electricity surged through Stone's body, causing him to grunt in pain.
"Mmpf!"
He groaned, his muscles contracting involuntarily as he struggled to maintain his balance. The paralyzing shock echoed within him, rattling his nerves and leaving him momentarily stunned.
"Looks like it works, one wrong move from you, and your head will go straight to Celestia."
Tempest said coolly, his gaze locked onto Stone.
Stone let out a dry chuckle, his lips curling into a wry smile.
"One hell of a welcome, boss."
"Take him to the dungeons, I'll call him when I need him."
Tempest commanded, his tone firm as he turned back to Falric, who nodded in response without hesitation.
"Well, color me happy..."
As he was escorted out, Stone couldn't help but comment sarcastically. His voice dripped with irony, a sardonic grin spreading across his face as he glanced back at Tempest.
"Damn! Nice house, chief!"
Hatsume exclaimed, her eyes widening as she took in the grandeur of the mansion before her.
"Thanks, this place will be both your home now, I'll have your lab and workshop ready in a week or two."
Tempest replied with a nod as he looked at Hatsume and Faruzan.
Hatsume beamed with excitement at the prospect of having a dedicated space for her inventions, but Faruzan seemed momentarily lost in the grandeur of the mansion, her gaze sweeping over the intricate architecture and lavish decor.
"This is your house?"
Faruzan asked, her voice laced with disbelief and curiosity.
"Yes, it-"
"Look who's back!"
Before Tempest could finish his sentence, he was interrupted by a boisterous voice.
Constantine exclaimed, a wide grin spreading across his face as he wrapped his arm around Tempest's shoulder in a familiar gesture of camaraderie.
"Good to see you again, Teacher."
Tempest said with a small smile.
"Did you bring back any treasures from your Sumeru or just stories of glory?"
He teased, his eyes sparkling with mischief.
"And who are these young ladies? Oh, don't tell me..."
Constantine said, a teasing smirk playing on his lips as he eyed the newcomers. His tone was playful, suggesting he was about to make a light-hearted joke.
"Teacher, they work for me,"
Tempest replied, his voice firm as he clearly indicated he wasn't in the mood for his usual banter. He crossed his arms, a slight frown creasing his brow as he tried to keep the atmosphere professional.
"Yep! Hatsume, reporting for duty!"
Hatsume exclaimed cheerfully, her bright smile radiating enthusiasm and energy. She stood at attention, hands on her hips, clearly eager to dive into her new role and make a positive impression.
"Faruzan..."
Faruzan replied softly, her voice barely above a whisper. A faint blush crept onto her cheeks as she twirled a strand of her hair around her finger.
Mm! I think you'll both fit in here very well. Now then, I'll have to borrow the Duke for a moment; important matters await us."
Constantine remarked with an approving nod.
"Rohan will show you both around. He knows the mansion inside and out, so don't hesitate to ask him anything. I'll see you two later."
With that, Tempest turned his attention back to Constantine, ready to discuss whatever urgent matters lay ahead, while Rohan stepped forward to lead Hatsume and Faruzan on their tour of the mansion.
I have to show you this one Melusine, Your Grace, she's truly something special."
Constantine said enthusiastically as he led Tempest through the sprawling corridors toward the training grounds.
"Is it, Tirpitz?"
Tempest asked, curiosity piqued.
"Yes, you know her?"
Constantine replied, his eyes lighting up with curiosity.
"Mm, Monsieur Neuvillette, told me about her. He asked if I could bring her back if possible. However, I want to see for myself if she truly possesses the capabilities to join the Golden Armada."
Tempest replied, a thoughtful expression crossing his face.
"I think you'll be pleasantly surprised, Your Grace. She has a unique blend of tenacity and skill that I believe would make her a perfect fit."
Constantine said with an eager smile.
Shortly thereafter, they arrived at the training grounds, which were an unsettling sight. The ground was littered with unconscious bodies, a testament to the intense training taking place. In the center of the chaos stood two figures locked in a standoff.
On one side was a footman clad in heavy armor, his imposing figure made even more formidable by his peculiar choice of weapons, both his hands were encased in maces, resembling a pair of gloves. Across from him was a short but fierce Melusine, her sharp claws gleaming menacingly in the sunlight. Her striking red eyes burned with determination, clearly unyielding despite the odds stacked against her.
"I handpicked these individuals based on their potential and capabilities, all of whom have the potential to become knights."
Constantine explained, a sense of pride evident in his voice.
Shortly after the standoff began, the tension in the air was palpable. The footman lunged forward at Tirpitz, his maces raised high above his head, causing the ground to tremble slightly as he landed. Yet, Tirpitz was quick and nimble; she effortlessly dodged his initial attack with grace.
In a fit of rage, the footman attempted an uppercut aimed at her, but she evaded that strike as well, her agility shining through. Frustrated, he slammed his mace into the ground with tremendous force, but once again, Tirpitz skillfully sidestepped the blow. However, his reckless attack backfired, and the mace became lodged in the ground, rendering him temporarily off-balance.
Seizing the opportunity, Tirpitz nimbly climbed onto his arm and swiftly made her way to his head, positioning her sharp claws against the exposed skin of his neck.
"Tirpitz wins!"
Constantine declared, his voice booming over the training grounds, excitement radiating from him as he recognized her impressive victory.
"Impressive..."
Tempest muttered under his breath, his eyes narrowing as he observed Tirpitz's skillful movements. Her agility and determination in the face of a much larger opponent left a strong impression on him.
"Now then, EVERYONE GET UP! MOVE YOUR ASSES! MOVE, MOVE, MOVE!"
Constantine bellowed, his voice booming across the training grounds. The unconscious recruits stirred at his command, scrambling to their feet in a frantic haze as they quickly formed a line. It was evident that Constantine was relishing his newfound role as a trainer, his enthusiasm infectious as he paced in front of them, a glint of excitement in his eyes.
"You've got a long way to go before you can even think about being knights! Let's see some energy out there! Greet your Duke!"
His commanding presence filled the air, motivating the recruits to shake off the remnants of their earlier sparring match.
"Welcome home! Your Grace!"
The recruits exclaimed in unison, their voices echoing off the training grounds. The enthusiasm in their tone reflected both their respect for Tempest and their eagerness to prove themselves under his command.
"At ease, You're dismissed."
Tempest commanded, watching as the recruits nodded in acknowledgment and gradually began to disperse.
"Except for the Melusine."
Tirpitz paused, glancing around to confirm that there were no other Melusines present. After a moment of contemplation, she turned back to Tempest, her eyes narrowing in curiosity as she pointed to herself, a hint of confusion crossing her features. It was clear that she was uncertain about why she had been singled out, her stance ready but relaxed as she awaited further instructions from the Duke.
Yes, you. Come over here."
Tempest instructed his tone firm yet inviting.
"Can I help you, Your Grace?"
Tirpitz asked, her voice steady yet respectful, as she offered a slight bow.
"You must be Tirpitz, correct? Monsieur Neuvillette has requested that I return you to the Marechaussee Phantom."
Tempest asked, his gaze sharp as he studied the Melusine.
Tirpitz's mouth parted slightly, her expression betraying a flash of reluctance. It was clear she had no desire to return.
"I don't want to..."
Tirpitz muttered, her voice barely above a whisper.
"And why is that?"
Tempest raised an eyebrow, his tone firm but curious.
"It's so boring over there... I want to feel the thrill of being a predator again, like the first time I hunted a fish. That rush, the challenge... I miss it."
Her words carried a fierce energy, setting her apart from the other Melusines. There was something primal in her gaze, something that made her different, a hunger for excitement and danger that most of her kind avoided.
"I see. Well then, answer me this one question, and I might consider letting you stay."
Tempest responded thoughtfully, his gaze locking with hers.
"Mm?"
"Are you capable of taking a life, when your kind normally cannot?"
Tempest asked, his tone sharpening.
"I can."
Tirpitz answered, without a moment's hesitation, her voice steady and unwavering.
Tempest studied her closely, noting the lack of doubt in her eyes.
"No hesitation... Impressive."
'She's perfect... She will be the first Ghost Operative.'
*Tirpitz image*
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*Two days later...*
*Knock Knock*
"Your Grace?"
A soft but firm knock at the door, followed by the familiar voice of Melissa.
Tempest lay sprawled across his bed, still half-asleep. The early morning light filtered through the curtains, casting a faint glow in the room. He sighed, rubbing his eyes before responding.
"Yes, Melissa?"
"Your Grace, someone has requested to see you, she's currently waiting in your office..."
Melissa informed him politely.
"What?"
Tempest got up from his bed, his expression hardening as he quickly processed the situation.
"She's waiting, Your Grace..."
Melissa replied, her tone steady, though something about her demeanor seemed slightly off.
Tempest quickly got dressed, his mind racing with questions about the unexpected visitor. As he opened the door, he was met with Melissa standing just outside, her posture rigid and her expression unreadable. However, it was her eyes that caught his attention, pitch black, devoid of any warmth or familiarity.
"Melissa? Are you feeling alright?"
Tempest said a hint of concern lacing his voice.
"I'm fine, Your Grace. Just a little tired, perhaps."
Tempest's instincts flared, sensing that something was amiss.
"Tired? You look... different. Is there something you want to tell me?"
"No, everything is just as it should be."
She replied, her voice smooth yet oddly devoid of emotion.
"I see. Why don't you take the day off today? I'll handle the guest."
Tempest said, attempting to sound reassuring despite the unsettling atmosphere.
Melissa nodded in response, her movements almost mechanical. Without a word, she turned and walked away, her footsteps echoing softly in the hallway as she moved in the opposite direction.
'Somethings not right...'
Tempest entered his office, steeling himself for the unexpected guest. He quickly scanned the room until his gaze landed on the woman sitting gracefully on the couch.
"Are you lost, mademoiselle?"
He inquired, his tone a mix of curiosity and caution.
The woman had an ethereal appearance that seemed almost otherworldly. Feathers, resembling delicate wings, adorned the back of her head, giving her an angelic aura. A mask with grid-like patterns partially obscured her eyes, which were shut in a serene expression. She hummed a gentle melody, filling the air with an enchanting sound that seemed to echo the tranquility of her demeanor.
"I sense the sun is approaching me."