Heiress of House Tanzer
Posted: Sun Nov 17, 2024 2:27 am
8th of Ash, 124
The Wintergarten Circle is always bustling at this time of the day. Leon enjoyed people watching, there’s something interesting about it and dare to say that he had gotten unique opportunities due to that. He leaned back on the chair and placed his pack of cigarette on the table beside him. He took one out and juggled the unlit stick between his fingers. The cooperation between him and Guthenberg had went well so far. At a bit slower paced than he was used to. But then again, they were staring all from the ground up. This was also a crucial phase, laying the foundation. He was reminded of Claudette’s advice. Guthenberg was the only one from his past that knew about the Jaeger Corps aside from them and the former officers overseeing the project. But the only one who knew they were still alive was only Guthenberg. Something that could bite him back in the ass, down the road. To be honest, Leon only needed Guthenberg as a front and his connections. Although not as influential as before, the old man still got his uses. Another puppet would be easier for him, one that’s not aware of his past. Guthenberg was like a ticking bomb, jut waiting to explode in Leon’s face. Why did I even need to entertain the geezer? I should had rejected his offer back then. I could be enjoying my days right now, lounging around. He thought to himself as he continued watching the hustle and bustle of the streets below. That geezer really knew how to manipulate someone. I guess retirement really doesn’t suit me, and I’m just unsure of what to do. The brisk footstep and the familiar figure coming into his peripheral view. The GCPD detective pulled up the chair beside him and plopped down. Visibly exhausted from the night before.
“Detective, how goes crime fighting?” his tone half-serious, half-joking.
Katya laid back and let out an audible sigh, wiping the imaginary sweat from her forehead, “It’s a hard job. Low pay, high stress and high risk.” She complained, following along with Leon’s acting. “If only they pay as high as the risk, then it would’ve been more manageable.”
Leon then offered her a cigarette, which she took. He then lit her cigarette before lighting his. Leon took a long drag, the embers of the cigarette glowing faintly as he exhaled a cloud of smoke “But they do provide great coffee” he commented
Katya took a long drag and sighed as she exhaled a cloud of smoke, “If only I could pay my taxes with coffee beans.”
The two shared a few moments of contemplation, alternating exhaling cloud of smoke between them. The bustling of the streets below, the sound of merry chatters and the sound of silverware tapping from the other patrons of the establishment. Although there’s not too many patrons, as it’s still in the middle of the working hours.
“Detective,” Leon said, breaking the silence. “What’s been done regarding the influx of foreigners in the Northside? Last time I was picking up my friend from the docks up there, we took a shortcut through some warehouses and were harassed by a group of them. I even told them that I would report them to the GCPD, but they laughed in my face and dared me to do it, they even had the audacity to say that the GCPD won’t dare come into their territory.” Leon ranted in annoyance as he took another long drag before continuing. “I’m not even sure they have filed the right permits for owning properties. Those people are a burden to us citizens, the GCPD and even the OIR.”
Katya listened carefully to Leon’s seemingly innocent ranting. They were after all trained under the same mentor and used the same system of relaying information and job orders. She tapped the ash from her cigarette, “Even without the foreigners, it would be hard for just the GCPD to monitor all the crimes, especially further up. We don’t have the manpower to monitor every port of entrance. What we can do is investigate the area where the crime was reported. If there’s recurring reports from the area, then we’ll increase the patrol.” She took another drag, fingers tapping on the table, “Did you remember the area where you and your friend took the shortcut? I’ll see if I could send some uniforms to the area. Have you try submitting a separate report to the OIR, they should have the documents on who owns those warehouses and if the owners were aware that their properties are being used for nefarious means. Then maybe they’ll send an auditor. I’m sure matters won’t escalate as much to garner a Review. I doubt anyone would be that of a fool.”
Leon took another drag and leaned back on the chair, seemingly lost in thought or hatching up a plan, “Well, I hope those gangs finished each other off, without endangering citizens. It would be better.”
Katya tapped the ash from her cigarette, “I hope so, that’d mean less work for us. But the paperwork would be a headache. But still, I don’t have to visit the families of the fallen officers to be the bearer of bad news. I’d rather take a mountain of paperwork.”
Leon took a long drag, “I agree with you, detective.” He nodded.
A police officer approached the two of them, Leon noticed the skull and cross-bone tattooed on his wrist. Katya sighed at the sight of the officer. “Well then, it seems like duty calls. No rest for the wicked.” She stubbed the cigarette on the ashtray and stood up. “Thank for the chat.” She smiled faintly.
“Oh detective, one more thing. One of the foreigners were a dollmaker.” Leon hinted about Claudette resurfacing in the city.
Katya stopped in her tracks, seemingly recalling something before realization hit her. “Ah yes, the dollmaker. I...I'll add it to the report.” Her words quivering.
No one who met Claudette leave with a sane mind. He thought to himself as he steadied the minor trembling of his hand. Leon then called for the waitress. Ordering a cup of espresso and their afternoon platter.
That aside, Claudette’s right. I can’t fight without proper resources. The most profitable one that I got right know is Billy’s product. Of all the products I’ve sampled in the Capital, Billy’s still the best. So, in the meantime while looking for Billy, I also need to look for a place inconspicuous enough and safe enough to start production. Although I still remember a bit on Billy’s production and manufacturing method, a single mistake and it’d swallowed up my current resources. Now regarding the potential manufacturing place, Southside would be my best bet. Less headache, less need for outsourced security since Katya could send her men for ‘patrol’ in the area. No need to hire the O’Grims. But it’d be suspicious enough if it’s just a warehouse or a house. He thought to himself. The waitress brought the espresso and plater and placed it on the table. Leon gulped the whole cup, grimacing at the bitter flavour. That hits the spot. Felt like my brain got reset. There’s still the problem of getting the raw goods. Where could I get that large of an amount without getting on the Five Families’ radar. He took a bite and contemplated. A young woman and what appears to be her butler took the table beside his. Leon couldn’t help but eavesdrop on their conversation.
“Frank, what do you think we should do with the flowers?” she asked, her voice sounded tired.
“The late Lord didn’t leave any explicit orders in his will regarding the management of the estate, other than handing it over to you, my Lady.”
“Is there a ‘reason’ my father bought and cultivated all those ornamental flowers?” she asked, her tone curious and suspicious.
“I’m not sure I follow, my Lady.”
“So, you mean to say that a dying sick old man spent that much on just ornamental flowers, to not even get the chance to see it bloom?” her tone annoyed.
The butler didn’t reply but just hung his head.
“Do you think-“
“My Lady!” the butler raised his voice, cutting her off. “The Lord isn’t someone like that.”
Leon peeked and saw the butler adjusting his composure and straightening his shirt. “Apologies my Lady. The tea seems to be running a bit late. I will check on them.” The butler stood up to leave. After the butler left the balcony area, Leon stood up and changed seat.
“My deepest condolences.” Leon offered his grievance.
The woman looked at the seat Leon was seating at previously then at him. “Thank you, stranger.” She replied, her response was a mixed between coldness and caution.
His gaze softened, “Allow me to introduce myself. I’m Lord Stefan Lechner of Arlais.” He introduced himself using the family name of one of his cousin’s.
The woman took a deep breath, letting go of her guard at the mention of another noble family name. “I’m Lady Natasya Putri Tanzer. Please to make your acquaintance Lord Lechner.”
Leon smiled, “Please, you can call me Stefan, after all, we aren’t strangers anymore.” He light-heartedly replied.
“Well......Stefan, what takes you this far from home?” she asked, her interest piqued.
Leon thought for a moment, “On a business trip and sightseeing. The Capital is a breath of fresh air from the frontlines.” He inhaled deeply to make it more convincing.
“What’s it like on the frontlines, if you don’t mind me asking?” she leaned in closer.
“It’s… hard to describe,” Leon replied, his gaze growing distant as memories surfaced. “There’s a strange mix of chaos and clarity out there. The sounds never really leave you. The thunder of artillery, the snap of bullets, the clashing of swords. But it’s not all action. Sometimes, the waiting is the worst. Hours can feel like days when you're holding your breath, just listening. And when things get close, there’s a… rawness to it, a sense of everything mattering all at once and yet nothing making sense.” He paused, his voice softening. “But you also see moments of unbelievable humanity. People looking out for each other, even when everything's falling apart. It’s surreal, and it stays with you long after you leave.”
The response left both of them in silence, even Leon was taken aback by the words that came out of his mouth. But he wasn’t entirely lying. It was just a different frontline, one that’s closer to home.
Franz cleared his throat as he approached the table. Carrying a tray in his hand.
“Hello, I’m Lord Stefan Lechner.” Leon stood up and slightly nodded as he introduced himself.
“Lord Lechner, please to meet you, I’m Franz Wolf the butler of House Tanzer. Would you also like a cup of tea?” Franz asked, bowing courteously.
“Yes please, Herr Wolf. Thank you for the offer.” He replied and waited until the butler left before asking his next question. “If you don’t mind me asking, what kind of flowers where you talking about with Franz?”
Natasya’s face change a bit, “Well.....I’m not sure, but it think it’s papaver something, something, I forgot.” Tears began forming as she memories of her late father resurfaced.
Poppy. The word pops up in his mind. It seems like the universe is guiding me here. To meet with her. He thought as he reached out and wiped the tear drop from Natasya’s cheek. He then handed the handkerchief to her. “Natasya, forgive me for asking.” His voice sounds as remorseful as he could be.
Natasya sniffled and shook her head. “No, it’s alright. I just think that I needed some time for myself.”
Leon took hold of her hand and gave it a comforting squeeze. “If you don’t mind it, allow me accompany you and Herr Wolf back. It’s the least I could do.”
Natasya wiped her tears with the handkerchief, looked Leon and the eye, before nodding slowly.
“Well then let me go get the carriage ready.” He said as he made his way to Franz.
“My Lord,” Franz greeted him.
“Herr Wolf, I think Lady Tanzer would like to go back home. I’ll accompany the two of you back home. It’s the least I could do.” Leon paused momentarily as he studied Franz’s expression. “She said that she needed some alone time.” He quickly added.
Franz took a deep breath and exhaled slowly. “Thank you, Lord Stefan. I just want the best for Lady Natasya.”
“I’m sure she doesn’t really mean what she said earlier. We just need to give her some space. But still remaining close by.” Leon comforted him, hinting on the we part. “Are there close relatives of Natasya in the city?” he continued.
Franz closed his eyes momentarily. “I’m sorry Lord Stefan, I’m not at liberty to say.”
“I understand.” Leon replied. Right, it wouldn’t be as easy as I thought it would be, he thought.
Thoughts
The Wintergarten Circle is always bustling at this time of the day. Leon enjoyed people watching, there’s something interesting about it and dare to say that he had gotten unique opportunities due to that. He leaned back on the chair and placed his pack of cigarette on the table beside him. He took one out and juggled the unlit stick between his fingers. The cooperation between him and Guthenberg had went well so far. At a bit slower paced than he was used to. But then again, they were staring all from the ground up. This was also a crucial phase, laying the foundation. He was reminded of Claudette’s advice. Guthenberg was the only one from his past that knew about the Jaeger Corps aside from them and the former officers overseeing the project. But the only one who knew they were still alive was only Guthenberg. Something that could bite him back in the ass, down the road. To be honest, Leon only needed Guthenberg as a front and his connections. Although not as influential as before, the old man still got his uses. Another puppet would be easier for him, one that’s not aware of his past. Guthenberg was like a ticking bomb, jut waiting to explode in Leon’s face. Why did I even need to entertain the geezer? I should had rejected his offer back then. I could be enjoying my days right now, lounging around. He thought to himself as he continued watching the hustle and bustle of the streets below. That geezer really knew how to manipulate someone. I guess retirement really doesn’t suit me, and I’m just unsure of what to do. The brisk footstep and the familiar figure coming into his peripheral view. The GCPD detective pulled up the chair beside him and plopped down. Visibly exhausted from the night before.
“Detective, how goes crime fighting?” his tone half-serious, half-joking.
Katya laid back and let out an audible sigh, wiping the imaginary sweat from her forehead, “It’s a hard job. Low pay, high stress and high risk.” She complained, following along with Leon’s acting. “If only they pay as high as the risk, then it would’ve been more manageable.”
Leon then offered her a cigarette, which she took. He then lit her cigarette before lighting his. Leon took a long drag, the embers of the cigarette glowing faintly as he exhaled a cloud of smoke “But they do provide great coffee” he commented
Katya took a long drag and sighed as she exhaled a cloud of smoke, “If only I could pay my taxes with coffee beans.”
The two shared a few moments of contemplation, alternating exhaling cloud of smoke between them. The bustling of the streets below, the sound of merry chatters and the sound of silverware tapping from the other patrons of the establishment. Although there’s not too many patrons, as it’s still in the middle of the working hours.
“Detective,” Leon said, breaking the silence. “What’s been done regarding the influx of foreigners in the Northside? Last time I was picking up my friend from the docks up there, we took a shortcut through some warehouses and were harassed by a group of them. I even told them that I would report them to the GCPD, but they laughed in my face and dared me to do it, they even had the audacity to say that the GCPD won’t dare come into their territory.” Leon ranted in annoyance as he took another long drag before continuing. “I’m not even sure they have filed the right permits for owning properties. Those people are a burden to us citizens, the GCPD and even the OIR.”
Katya listened carefully to Leon’s seemingly innocent ranting. They were after all trained under the same mentor and used the same system of relaying information and job orders. She tapped the ash from her cigarette, “Even without the foreigners, it would be hard for just the GCPD to monitor all the crimes, especially further up. We don’t have the manpower to monitor every port of entrance. What we can do is investigate the area where the crime was reported. If there’s recurring reports from the area, then we’ll increase the patrol.” She took another drag, fingers tapping on the table, “Did you remember the area where you and your friend took the shortcut? I’ll see if I could send some uniforms to the area. Have you try submitting a separate report to the OIR, they should have the documents on who owns those warehouses and if the owners were aware that their properties are being used for nefarious means. Then maybe they’ll send an auditor. I’m sure matters won’t escalate as much to garner a Review. I doubt anyone would be that of a fool.”
Leon took another drag and leaned back on the chair, seemingly lost in thought or hatching up a plan, “Well, I hope those gangs finished each other off, without endangering citizens. It would be better.”
Katya tapped the ash from her cigarette, “I hope so, that’d mean less work for us. But the paperwork would be a headache. But still, I don’t have to visit the families of the fallen officers to be the bearer of bad news. I’d rather take a mountain of paperwork.”
Leon took a long drag, “I agree with you, detective.” He nodded.
A police officer approached the two of them, Leon noticed the skull and cross-bone tattooed on his wrist. Katya sighed at the sight of the officer. “Well then, it seems like duty calls. No rest for the wicked.” She stubbed the cigarette on the ashtray and stood up. “Thank for the chat.” She smiled faintly.
“Oh detective, one more thing. One of the foreigners were a dollmaker.” Leon hinted about Claudette resurfacing in the city.
Katya stopped in her tracks, seemingly recalling something before realization hit her. “Ah yes, the dollmaker. I...I'll add it to the report.” Her words quivering.
No one who met Claudette leave with a sane mind. He thought to himself as he steadied the minor trembling of his hand. Leon then called for the waitress. Ordering a cup of espresso and their afternoon platter.
That aside, Claudette’s right. I can’t fight without proper resources. The most profitable one that I got right know is Billy’s product. Of all the products I’ve sampled in the Capital, Billy’s still the best. So, in the meantime while looking for Billy, I also need to look for a place inconspicuous enough and safe enough to start production. Although I still remember a bit on Billy’s production and manufacturing method, a single mistake and it’d swallowed up my current resources. Now regarding the potential manufacturing place, Southside would be my best bet. Less headache, less need for outsourced security since Katya could send her men for ‘patrol’ in the area. No need to hire the O’Grims. But it’d be suspicious enough if it’s just a warehouse or a house. He thought to himself. The waitress brought the espresso and plater and placed it on the table. Leon gulped the whole cup, grimacing at the bitter flavour. That hits the spot. Felt like my brain got reset. There’s still the problem of getting the raw goods. Where could I get that large of an amount without getting on the Five Families’ radar. He took a bite and contemplated. A young woman and what appears to be her butler took the table beside his. Leon couldn’t help but eavesdrop on their conversation.
“Frank, what do you think we should do with the flowers?” she asked, her voice sounded tired.
“The late Lord didn’t leave any explicit orders in his will regarding the management of the estate, other than handing it over to you, my Lady.”
“Is there a ‘reason’ my father bought and cultivated all those ornamental flowers?” she asked, her tone curious and suspicious.
“I’m not sure I follow, my Lady.”
“So, you mean to say that a dying sick old man spent that much on just ornamental flowers, to not even get the chance to see it bloom?” her tone annoyed.
The butler didn’t reply but just hung his head.
“Do you think-“
“My Lady!” the butler raised his voice, cutting her off. “The Lord isn’t someone like that.”
Leon peeked and saw the butler adjusting his composure and straightening his shirt. “Apologies my Lady. The tea seems to be running a bit late. I will check on them.” The butler stood up to leave. After the butler left the balcony area, Leon stood up and changed seat.
“My deepest condolences.” Leon offered his grievance.
The woman looked at the seat Leon was seating at previously then at him. “Thank you, stranger.” She replied, her response was a mixed between coldness and caution.
His gaze softened, “Allow me to introduce myself. I’m Lord Stefan Lechner of Arlais.” He introduced himself using the family name of one of his cousin’s.
The woman took a deep breath, letting go of her guard at the mention of another noble family name. “I’m Lady Natasya Putri Tanzer. Please to make your acquaintance Lord Lechner.”
Leon smiled, “Please, you can call me Stefan, after all, we aren’t strangers anymore.” He light-heartedly replied.
“Well......Stefan, what takes you this far from home?” she asked, her interest piqued.
Leon thought for a moment, “On a business trip and sightseeing. The Capital is a breath of fresh air from the frontlines.” He inhaled deeply to make it more convincing.
“What’s it like on the frontlines, if you don’t mind me asking?” she leaned in closer.
“It’s… hard to describe,” Leon replied, his gaze growing distant as memories surfaced. “There’s a strange mix of chaos and clarity out there. The sounds never really leave you. The thunder of artillery, the snap of bullets, the clashing of swords. But it’s not all action. Sometimes, the waiting is the worst. Hours can feel like days when you're holding your breath, just listening. And when things get close, there’s a… rawness to it, a sense of everything mattering all at once and yet nothing making sense.” He paused, his voice softening. “But you also see moments of unbelievable humanity. People looking out for each other, even when everything's falling apart. It’s surreal, and it stays with you long after you leave.”
The response left both of them in silence, even Leon was taken aback by the words that came out of his mouth. But he wasn’t entirely lying. It was just a different frontline, one that’s closer to home.
Franz cleared his throat as he approached the table. Carrying a tray in his hand.
“Hello, I’m Lord Stefan Lechner.” Leon stood up and slightly nodded as he introduced himself.
“Lord Lechner, please to meet you, I’m Franz Wolf the butler of House Tanzer. Would you also like a cup of tea?” Franz asked, bowing courteously.
“Yes please, Herr Wolf. Thank you for the offer.” He replied and waited until the butler left before asking his next question. “If you don’t mind me asking, what kind of flowers where you talking about with Franz?”
Natasya’s face change a bit, “Well.....I’m not sure, but it think it’s papaver something, something, I forgot.” Tears began forming as she memories of her late father resurfaced.
Poppy. The word pops up in his mind. It seems like the universe is guiding me here. To meet with her. He thought as he reached out and wiped the tear drop from Natasya’s cheek. He then handed the handkerchief to her. “Natasya, forgive me for asking.” His voice sounds as remorseful as he could be.
Natasya sniffled and shook her head. “No, it’s alright. I just think that I needed some time for myself.”
Leon took hold of her hand and gave it a comforting squeeze. “If you don’t mind it, allow me accompany you and Herr Wolf back. It’s the least I could do.”
Natasya wiped her tears with the handkerchief, looked Leon and the eye, before nodding slowly.
“Well then let me go get the carriage ready.” He said as he made his way to Franz.
“My Lord,” Franz greeted him.
“Herr Wolf, I think Lady Tanzer would like to go back home. I’ll accompany the two of you back home. It’s the least I could do.” Leon paused momentarily as he studied Franz’s expression. “She said that she needed some alone time.” He quickly added.
Franz took a deep breath and exhaled slowly. “Thank you, Lord Stefan. I just want the best for Lady Natasya.”
“I’m sure she doesn’t really mean what she said earlier. We just need to give her some space. But still remaining close by.” Leon comforted him, hinting on the we part. “Are there close relatives of Natasya in the city?” he continued.
Franz closed his eyes momentarily. “I’m sorry Lord Stefan, I’m not at liberty to say.”
“I understand.” Leon replied. Right, it wouldn’t be as easy as I thought it would be, he thought.
Thoughts