End of Knighthood Part I: The Chess Pieces (Reverence Book 2) by Landeros Joshua

Author:Landeros, Joshua [Landeros, Joshua]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Published: 2017-04-16T22:00:00+00:00

Chapter 10 - Never Again

October 11, 2065 - The Kantei, Tokyo

Venloran admired the beauty of the decorated vermillion cup, small as it was. The office was kept considerably warm, just the right amount to almost simulate an actual lit fire. Seated in the relaxing arm chair, he felt like royalty here. The Prime Minister’s office was filled with an earthy-floral scent as the sake was poured. The Chancellor knew the taste would be utterly exquisite. He looked to the woman across from him.

“Kame no O has quite a presence.”

“Making it perfect for the occasion, Chancellor.”

A man knelt at the short table to serve the drinks. Despite the simple task, his eyes remained focused on his service.

“Thank you,” Venloran offered the man a warm smile, and he returned the gesture.

“Will that be all, ma’am?”

“Yes, thank you, Mr. Naro. You may go.”

Prime Minister Koichi watched as he left, shutting both the doors softly. With just the two of them now in the majestic room, she seemed to ease up in presence. Personally, she wanted to dive right into the sake but she allowed herself to wait.

“Our business arrangement has borne fruit and both our countries will find it most beneficial. We are honored to be in alliance with you, I hope removing any lingering ugly patches from our history.”

She raised his glass, Venloran joining her. The Chancellor couldn’t help being tedious, despite his smile.

“A drink to building a better world,” Venloran said.

“And the growth of our economies, as well as the prospect of peace,” Koichi added. Venloran allowed himself a small laugh. He held the glass away from his lips at the moment. Koichi took due note of this and refrained from indulging as well. If there was a single tint of frustration in her being, she did not express it.

“I only wish to inquire something, Prime Minister. You are aware of the full extent of this pact?”

“I have read it over many times, Chancellor. We will aid in manufacturing and if a full-scale military conflict does arise, no matter the location, no matter the aggressor, our soldiers will be on whatever the shore is to aid you.”

“And we will do so in return. I have no doubt you will honor your promise, of that I’m sure.”

“My generals are on standby. If anyone is foolish enough to challenge us, the retaliation will be merciless.”

Now Venloran brought the glass to his mouth.

“Let us hope the day never comes.”

They both took their first sips, Koichi anxious to get to her second. As she began to pour herself a refill, Venloran glimpsed something over on the desk at the other side of the room. What he saw there stabbed at something deep in the man’s chest. It was a simple portrait of the Prime Minster; seated on her lap was a young girl, probably only four or five.

***

January 13, 2044 - Forest Glen, Chicago

The classic Chevrolet Camaro cruised down the road, nothing but parks and small shops to peer at along the sides. Snow-white in color, the vehicle contrasted sharply with the dull pallette they rode past.

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