Chapter 26: Chapter: 25 Meeting Najenda
[3 YEARS LATER]
[REVOLUTIONARY FORCE'S HIDDEN HEADQUARTERS]
"What is the reason for our visit to the main headquarters today? Leo questioned Geralt as they strolled through the corridors.
Due to my extended absence, the workload for the support squad leader has become too much to handle. He requested my return since there's no suitable replacement for his secretary's position," Geralt explained, his pace steady.
"I understand your need to return, but why did you bring me along today? You could have come alone," Leo questioned, his confusion evident in his tone.
"You've been summoned to meet one of the esteemed leaders of the revolutionary forces—Najenda, whom you've likely heard of," Geralt replied, shedding light on Leo's query.
As Geralt had stated, Leo was familiar with this name. General Najenda was frequently mentioned during Leo's time in the Revolutionary special forces, as she was highly regarded by soldiers from all units.
Leo knew of her past as a former general of the Empire who defected after recognizing the corruption within the regime, similar to Geralt's journey.
As they approached the support unit sector, Geralt abruptly halted and turned to face Leo.
After a moment of contemplation, he spoke in an unusual tone, "Leo, over the years, I've watched you grow, silently observing your development. And I haven't asked much of you during this time, but today, may I request just two things from you?"
Geralt was aware that Leo had spent years secretly investigating the events surrounding the slum massacre and seeking vengeance for his parents' deaths by hunting down the soldiers that had participated in that massacre.
Despite his knowledge, Geralt had chosen to remain silent, allowing Leo to confront his pain on his own terms.
Over the span of three years since Leo acquired Jörmungandr, Geralt observed Leo's transformation with a mixture of apprehension and intrigue.
As Leo did more missions with his new weapon, Geralt couldn't help but notice the subtle changes in Leo's physique. As there were signs of recovery, Geralt couldn't shake the feeling that something more profound was at play.
Leo had also noticed these changes, but he attributed these changes to Jörmungandr's unique abilities, speculating that the Teigu was absorbing his poisonous blood with each use and utilising it as an energy source.
Uncertain of the implications, Leo recognized that only time would reveal whether this symbiotic relationship with Jörmungandr was beneficial or detrimental in the long run.
Geralt understood the escalating danger of Leo's missions, especially as his targets grew more formidable.
Despite Leo's previous triumphs over regular humans, he knew they wouldn't ensure his survival against the next targets, who were anything but ordinary.
Recognizing the urgency of the situation, Geralt realised that mere advice would not be enough to dissuade Leo from his course of action.
With a heavy heart, Geralt made the difficult decision to intervene more directly. He understood that Leo's agreement on the surface would not necessarily translate into a true abandonment of his thirst for vengeance.
Thus, Geralt had resolved to guide Leo onto a different path forcefully, one that would surround him with skilled individuals who could support and protect him.
Geralt understood that Leo would undertake riskier missions in this specialized unit, but he could at least find support from equally powerful individuals.
"What do you want from me, old man?" Leo finally asked, but he was slightly surprised to hear Geralt ask something from him, as during these whole years of his service, Geralt had not asked for a single help from Leo.
Geralt's words hung in the air as he directly approached the subject with Leo. "As I mentioned, Leader Najenda has summoned you, and it's likely that she will extend an offer for you to join a special squad under her direct command," he explained, his tone measured.
Aware of Leo's apprehension about rejoining a squad, Geralt anticipated his reluctance. "I understand your reservations, given your experiences," he continued. "But despite your discomfort, I want you to accept this offer."
Leo remained silent, his thoughts swirling as he contemplated Geralt's request. But after a few moments, Leo, with a sigh Leo reluctantly agreed to Geralt's proposition.
"Fine," Leo replied, his voice subdued. "I will take on that offer. What is your next wish?"
Geralt's tone softened as he made his second request to Leo. "I want you to break free from your isolation and engage with your squad mates once you join this special unit. Can you grant me this second wish?" he asked, his voice gentle yet firm.
Leo remained silent for a few moments, contemplating Geralt's words. Eventually, he responded in a hushed tone, "I will try."
Unsatisfied with Leo's response, Geralt leaned in closer, urging him to speak clearly. "I didn't hear your voice, kid. And make me a promise while saying it," he firmly requested.
Leo let out a frustrated sigh, knowing Geralt wouldn't relent until he complied. "Fine, fine, I make a promise to you," he said aloud, his voice clearer this time.
Satisfied with Leo's assurance, Geralt instructed him to proceed to the location where Leader Najenda awaited. With a shake of his head, Leo set off towards his next destination.
As Leo reaches his destination, he opens the door and instantly his eyes are drawn towards the enigmatic woman before him seated on her office chair.
Short, silver hair was cascading around her face, drawing attention to her captivating purple eye.
Clad in a black suit that hints at both authority and allure, she sits with poise, the eyepatch and mechanical arm adding to her mysterious allure.
With a cigarette between her fingers, she regards Leo with a cool, assessing gaze.
But after she observed Leo for a few moments, she uttered something that caused a sharp pang in Leo's head.
"Let's go to the training hall to assess your strength, young man," Najenda declared, her tone confident and assertive.
"...."
Leo realised in that instant that his new boss was a headstrong tomboy with a charismatic and extroverted personality.
In contrast, Leo had unintentionally become an introvert due to his years of isolation, rarely communicating with anyone other than occasional talks with Geralt during his service.
"...."
Leo remained silent in response to Najenda's words, opting instead to light a cigarette and take a few puffs to calm his nerves.
Despite wearing his mask, Leo had modified it to allow him to eat or smoke without removing it, a habit he had adopted during his years of isolation.
Najenda made no comment about Leo's actions, understanding his condition without the need for words.
'Damn you Geralt, I never knew both of your wishes would be a pain in my ass.' Internally, Leo cursed Geralt for placing him in this situation. He had not anticipated that Geralt's wishes would bring such discomfort and difficulty.
After composing himself, Leo finally spoke up in a shaky voice. "Let's go, boss," he said, signalling his readiness to proceed with Najenda's assessment.
Leo resigned himself to the reality of his situation. He knew that his time under Najenda's command would be filled with challenges and uncertainties, but he also recognized that resistance was futile.
With a heavy heart, Leo accepted his fate, knowing that he had little choice but to endure whatever trials lay ahead of him.
Weekly Power Status
-- Power
Ranking 
-- Power
stone