A robot approached him, bowing its metallic head.
"Master Venku, this floor belongs to you."
Venku blinked. "Wait... are you serious? You mean this entire floor is mine?"
"Yes, Master," the robot said. "As an Elder Knight, it is vital you have all resources at your disposal. Here on the V Floor, you will find shower facilities, a training hall, meals prepared by our top robotic chefs, and every utility needed to survive. For your safety, we advise that you live here within the base. An Elder Knight's life comes with... risks."
Venku rubbed his chin, a smile tugging at his lips.
"That actually makes sense. But... I should probably talk to my girlfriend first."
The robot's eyes glowed faintly.
"Of course, Master. You have full access to this floor and the entire building whenever you desire."
Venku walked through the white-lit corridor, his smile refusing to fade. But then he stopped, France stood ahead, two women clinging to his arms, their laughter filling the hall.
"France," Venku called. "Can I ask you something?"
France gave him a sideways glance.
"Ask away, kid. Make it quick."
France smiled whispering "I'm looking forward to a ood spanking."
Venku hesitated. "Everything feels so... surreal. Does it—"
France cut him off. His smile faded into steel.
"I felt the same way once. When I was chosen. I was younger, prettier." He smirked briefly before his face hardened again. "But if you're asking if the euphoria goes away... it does. And it's replaced with dread."
Unauthorized usage: this tale is on Amazon without the author's consent. Report any sightings.
The women at his sides went silent, sensing the shift in his tone.
"War isn't a simulation," France continued. "It kills. It rots. You'll watch your comrades die one by one. Most of the ones I started this fight with? Buried. Forgotten."
Venku's voice was barely a whisper. "How long... have the Els been in control of the territories?"
"Longer than you've been alive. Longer than me too," France said flatly. "That's why we don't get to screw up. Stay sharp, rookie. Me and my brother won't be there to pick up your slack."
Venku straightened, determination igniting in his eyes.
"Right. I won't screw up."
For the first time, France chuckled. "Good. On the bright side, being an Elda Knight does have perks. Fans. Women. Robots, if you're into that." He winked. "Not my thing, but I know a few who indulge."
Venku shook his head quickly. "I... already have a girlfriend."
France shrugged, walking off with the women.
"More for me, then." He leaned down, whispering something indecent that made the girls giggle.
Later, Venku made his way to the lower deck. Just before the exit door, he spotted Milly, asleep on a bench outside. Before he could step out, another robot approached him.
"Master Venku," it said. "The woman outside, she is your companion, yes?"
Venku nodded. "Yeah. She's my girlfriend."
The robot's tone shifted, clinical yet cold.
"Please, do not take offense. But we ask that you consider ending the relationship."
Venku frowned. "What kind of request is that?"
The robot explained calmly.
"As part of our duty to the Royal Branch, we review the records of all who are tied to Elder Knights. Your companion has... difficulty conceiving children."
Venku froze, then nodded slowly. "Yeah... that's true. It's something we've talked about."
"Reproduction is crucial," the robot continued. "The Royal Branch values bloodlines. Each year, ceremonies honor the children of superior lineage. It is expected that—"
"I know," Venku interrupted. "I've been briefed." He forced a laugh, trying to brush it off. "Don't make me sound like some filthy walker. I'm not letting anything come between my dreams. Thanks for the heads-up. We'll talk later."
The robot bowed. "As you wish, Master."
Outside, the evening air was cool. Venku stepped forward, gently tapping Milly's shoulder. Her eyes fluttered open, and she smiled when she saw him.
"Vinkey baby..." she whispered.
"Come on," Venku said softly. "Let's go home."
She sat up, brushing sleep from her eyes. "Are you okay?"
Venku nodded, his smile firm.
"Yeah. Actually... I've never felt better. For the first time in my life, I feel like I have a purpose. I'm not just some rookie anymore. I'm an Elder Knight. I'll protect the Royal people... and I'll kill anyone who gets in my way. Especially the Artists."
Milly's smile faltered, but Venku didn't notice.