Chapter 2: Sliding on Ice

Soundtrack:

1) Royals (cover by Sophie May Williams) for Raiza's song.

2) Blame it on the girl (Mika) for Kanon feelings.

Three months earlier…

It was a dark misty windy evening in a small town near Frankfurt. At the old square's corner of an bohemian neighborhood, a modest pub was open and crowded. While the band was playing their new songs covers the public clapped and screamed.

A flamboyant blue-haired tall man entered the pub and approached a ramshackle table near the little stage where the band was playing at its best. At first he looked indifferent and even bored. As the band played further, the second song caught his attention. The sultry voice singing "Blame it on the Girl" slowly seeped into his sulky mood, brought it up, warming it up. He stared at the singer that happened to be the guitar player. The singer was a slender girl, yet she maintained all the feminine curves and bumps. She sang with extreme passion. He leaned back on his chair while he continued observing the dark-haired singer. There was something rebellious in her eyes and the way she dressed. Another rebellious one was always attractive for him. With a smile on his full lips, he decided to stay at the bar for far longer than his original intention. With his turquoise eyes fixed on the singing girl and with a commanding voice, he called a slim, cute waiter to order a drink.

– Hey, head louse, I want an Asbach Uralt Sour! And give her a drink, too. Whatever she wants, ok? I'll pay for it.

The green-haired boy just nodded. The people of the pub used to be simple and easy-going folks but this blue-haired man seemed to be troublesome. Although his suit and expensive watch Tag Heuer Aquaracer suggested that he should be a "stammgast" [1] in some fancy pub full of bankers or business dealers, he might be problematic because misplaced people could easily invite to quarrel.

- And tell her to pay me a visit at the end of this song. – The flamboyant tall man said, full in control with overwhelming confidence. The boy just went towards the bar counter.

Few minutes later, the shy young waiter approached the singer with a glass of Berry Goldwater, her favorite German cocktail. He really hoped that the singer was in a good mood tonight. The snob and vulgar white-collars were on the dislike-list of the girl.

- Thanks, Shun. – She sweetly answered. – What have I done to deserve a free drink here?

- The man down there sent it to you, Raiza. - He answered in hushed tones and added. – He asked you to join him now…- The shy waiter carefully made a gesture towards the blue-haired man.

Raiza followed Shun's discreet gaze to that over confident man. Judging from his attire, he could be a normal business man, or a talent seeker, or a high class pimp. Being in the music business, Raiza learnt to broader her tolerance and respected people with different styles: eccentric and flamboyant included. She even grew an interest in knowing them; good or bad, they were always useful for inspirations. The man looked quite alluring, though. And there was something rebellious about the way he smirked and looked at people. He was definitely worth the investigation, and she could easily kick him out later on if he turned out to be just a plain jerk.

- Ha, ha, ha! Funny dude! I would pay him a visit when I've done with my duties. – She replied, trying to look at the man again but the pub was dark for the next performance and misty with the smoke of many cigarettes and more. After a silent toast to the stranger in the dark, she turned to the band and said aloud. – Come on, folks! Let's have more fun!

With an amused look, the pretty girl performed under the insolent and impatient gaze of those turquoise eyes. After long 45 minutes, the show was over.

Raiza slowly approached the blue-haired man's table and sat in front of him. She openly stared at him while smiling formally. The first impression was important to show who was there; she was not the prey. Holding her glass, she started the conversation.

- I'm not used to thank generous men so don't spend your money in my drinks, dude! I can pay all of them. – She said with a slight annoyance in her voice. - However, I am in interested in knowing the reason why you called me here. Please give a good one, mister…?

- Well, you came so that's my reward now. Please call me Kanon. - The man winked. - I honestly interested in the way you sing and your image in that unusual alternative attire. Nice choice of dress, miss…? - He said in an amused tone. His turquoise eyes were bright, warm and dark as the sea depths. All in all he transpired sensuality and seemed to be a carefree guy.

Interesting! She liked that kind of men: no risks, no ties, no responsibilities. And well, to be honest. The guy was very good looking, of course!

- Are you an artist or are you looking for new talents here? – She asked as she sipped her Berry Goldwater and watched him attentively. - Or if you're a fashion buyer, I'll be happy to take you to my friend Shaina. She is an amazing designer. She just finished her studies and opened her small boutique around the corner.

- Nope, it's not my profession. People call me Kanon the Goldfinger [2]. Because I know where's real gold. – He replied with a significant nod and an alluring smile.

She smiled back. He was another eccentric guy for inspiration. And gosh, gods! This Kanon is a hunk!

- Goldfinger? Do you have a Gold Touch? I mean, like that King Midas who was known for his ability to turn everything he touched into gold. – She chuckled.

He heartily laughed. Now he looked so sexy, easy-going and funny with those laughing eyes. – Yep, you did your homework at school, sweetie! Well, I have the Gold Touch for finances and other business! That's why they call me Goldfinger. I could put you among the new musical talents if you want. I have a very efficient network worldwide. Besides… I could galvanize whatever or whoever comes into my hands! – He stared at her with a mischievous look.

Raiza pouted as she lost her interest. How disappointing that this hunk was just another broker, who probably was only interested in nothing else than money and bragging about it. This might be the kind of guy her auntie Sophrosyne or her mentor Shion would prefer as her boyfriend: a rich and boring guy. - Good to know, Goldfinger. You'll need more than your Gold Touch to attract a girl's interest. – She smiled widely, shook her head and stood up. – Thanks for the drink. Bye!

- Aren't you telling me your name? Come on, don't leave me now. I was teasing you. – Kanon caught her wrist.

Raiza looked at the deep tanned and rather muscular hand that was holding hers, weighing the pros and cons of spending her time with this Goldfinger guy. His hand was warm on her, his touch so manly. Yes, he was handsome and not an absolute jerk so far. It wasn't his fault if he was just an ordinary broker, destined to be boring and over-confident. Maybe he'll be worthy of a one-night-stand if he could show more of his character when given a chance. So Raiza sat down.

- Well, if you act like a gentleman, I can stay a bit more. - Raiza gave the warning look of "impress me the right way" and crossed her arms. - I am Raiza, the band leader.

- Nice to meet you, Raiza. Could I offer you another drink? – Kanon's tone was softer, realizing that he could have offended the girl. And it's not a good idea to annoy a rebellious soul if he wanted her to stay in chat.

She nodded as he raised his hand to call the waiter. It was again Shun who saw them and eagerly came.

- Being you a Goldfinger, I would like another drink. – She mockingly said.

- So let it be! Another Asbach Uralt Sour for me! – He turned to her. - And the same again for you, pretty?

- Actually, no, Shun. Bring him the äbbelwoi [3]. - Raiza nodded to the young and polite Japanese guy. It was a clear code that she was the one in control, or at least trying. - And an apfelsaftschorle [4] for me, please.

She laughed at Kanon and added. - So, mister Goldfinger, I suggest that you try the local apple wine if you want to look tough; don't just choose my grandpa's drink.

- Thank you, my dear. - He caught Raiza's hand on the table and playfully caressed it. - What else should I know about the local customs? Will you teach me how to behave?

- I might… - She purred, watching him with her tempting eyes. – It depends on my mood…- She whispered to him. Well, this hunk knew how to adapt to the situation and came back charmingly.

- So you are here, Raiza! – Another blue-haired male came by. – We were looking for you! When is our next rehearsal?

- Milo, come and join us. Here is Mr. Goldfinger and he might help our band to get into a next step…

- I'll be glad to talk about business. – The guy sat beside Raiza and closely watched Kanon. Shun brought the drinks. – So you heard about us, the "Naughty Mystic Hope" band. Great! Our band could perform live on TV when our first album is recorded. We should finish it by the end of the month. – Milo happily informed him while taking the glass of äbbelwoi and drinking it.

- Great news! I would take it into account…! - Kanon politely answered as he swiftly took his drink from Milo's hands.

- Ok, man! I was thirsty! Bring me a beer, Shun! We are four people in our band. – Milo eagerly began to introduce the members of their band to a bored Goldfinger. – Raiza is the first guitar and lead singer, I am the bass player, there's Hyoga with the keyboards and Deadly Man is the drummer and the percussionist. His name is a secret, so we call him DM. But it's mainly Raiza and I who work on the music and lyrics. Sometimes DM's pretty partner shows up for the chorus…

- Well, well, good to know…err… yes… – Kanon absently replied, expecting Milo would get away soon.

- Have you listened to our new songs? Billboard material for sure! – Milo was very excited. – With some help and our luck, we'll go out this hideous rat-trap soon.

- We are in no hurry. But we love this place after all, Milo. We are not a commercial band. We play for fun. – Raiza retorted. – Remember, we …

- How are you, darling? – A tall albino-looking man approached them and happily greeted her. His silky long hair fell on his back and he had a long dark robe. They couldn't see the expression of his eyes because they were covered by his thick white fringe.

- So you are back, puppeteer! – Raiza answered back. – I thought you were drowned somewhere in a fjord [5]…!

- So charming, my dear! I'm back from my business in Norway… family business. My, you are as lovely as always! – He caught a chair and sat down near her. – Did you miss me, Raiza?

- I was so busy that I didn't notice that you were gone until Hyoga told me. – She chuckled, staring at the disappointed Minos. – By the way, are you planning to perform with your puppets here?

- For sure! I already planned to present our love story: The Prince and the Showgirl!

- Minos, Minos, you really lack of imagination! That's an old movie, starring Marilyn Monroe! - She laughed, sipping her drink. Milo was almost suffocated with a burst of laugh while Kanon looked at the albino with annoyance.

- Yes, an old movie with a simple plot. – Added the Goldfinger. He was restraining to hit that idiot puppeteer.

- Gotcha! What about this title: The Norwegian Prince and the German Showgirl? – Minos showed an eager wide smile.

- Do you really think that someone would care to watch your puppets? - Milo exclaimed, laughing aloud. Kanon chuckled while Raiza just pouted.

- The pub's owner is delighted to have my show… - Minos answered proudly.

- For Sunday's early afternoon! A children's show! – Milo's guffaws were heard by the crowd.

- You narrow-minded arachnid!

- Minos, stop your nonsense now! Why don't you go to rehearse without bothering us? – Raiza impatiently told him and acidly added. – For sure, you need it!

- If you give me a kiss, I would do what you wish. – The almost white haired man answered with his purple eyes full of suggestions. It was not only about getting Raiza. But having a blue-haired stranger acting like he was the winner of any woman in this pub, his regular pub, had made him defensive and he raised the war flag. – I could take you out this hideous hole to the heights of Norwegian nobility and…

- How many times should I tell you that I don't care for you and your aristocratic crap, asshole? – Raiza was getting angry and Minos didn't seem to notice it.

– My darling, you know that you're trapped in my threads now! Your feelings are so clear! So don't be so stubborn… - He gave her a wicked smile, trying to approach and hug her.

- Come on, Minos! Don't confuse us! You're absolutely in love with Dite! – Milo laughed aloud, patting the albino's back. – I've seen you hungrily watching him…! So don't bother Raiza anymore! Anyway, beware of DM! He's a jealous type!

- Shut your mouth, prickly arachnid! – Minos yelled and tried to hit the laughing Milo. The bassist rejected the Norwegian and a small fight began, attiring the crowd's attention.

Kanon stood up and took Raiza's hand. They easily found another table where they sat, while a group encircled the fighting guys, screaming their bets.

- Now we could talk without the monkeys around! – Kanon stared at her.

- Hey! Milo's my friend! – She answered, a bit worried of what was going on. Milo was a tough guy but Minos was treacherous.

- Is he your boyfriend, huh? – Kanon asked and he felt a bit sorry if the pretty girl was paired with him. Although her weird attire and wild mood, something in her attracted him, he could not deny it. Moreover, when he stared at her, something was unfitting. She didn't belong to this, she looks like a very fine lady. The Pub's Princess.

- No, I have no boyfriend. I am a free spirit! Milo is like a brother to me. – She replied with a mix of pride and happiness. – I am not meant for ties or commitments, Goldfinger.

- I'm the same, Raiza. I hate the commitments and responsibilities that real life gives us. Now we can have the chance to be what we want and live the way it pleases us.

- Who are you then, Kanon? What are you doing here? – She asked while some screams came from the small crowd around Milo and Minos.

- I've told you: I am Goldfinger. Well, the truth is that my car's brake was broken so I left it around the corner and came here for a drink. Then I found you…

- Instead of going back to your palace in a limousine, hey, Goldfinger? – She mockingly said.

- There is not a palace neither other place for Goldfinger here… - He answered with a hint of sorrow in his voice.

- Why? You are a good looking and wealthy witty man! You might have many houses and lovers! People might be eager to worship you! - Aha, maybe he does have interesting story of his life and isn't that boring after all.

- No, Raiza. I am alone, really alone. – He said with a grimace and emptied his glass.

She was surprised to hear those sad words from him. Even since she left home, she wasn't alone. She was lucky to meet Milo so soon as she found the shared apartment in Berlin, before they shortly moved to Frankfurt because of the band. The stubborn Milo took Raiza under his wings at the beginning and was from time to time someone near to a friend-with-benefits. Raiza was young, eager of new experiences, and Milo was a bass player and a women charmer. However, they started to care for each other so much that they didn't intend to hurt each other with a hopeless relationship. The hot-headed Milo was taking care of her, helping her like an older brother ever since.

Besides, her twin Nikita was always there for her even when they stopped talking to each other for months, after her run-away. They stayed very close although their differences and ways. Another link to her past was their butler, Aiolos, who came each month to bring her pocket money and news from her family and relatives who missed her. Most of the time, she didn't take the pocket money, but she eagerly took all the achievements, news and gossip around her old life.

Actually, she had her band "Naughty Mystic Hope" that was like her family now. Even that damned DM! Yes, the Italian drummer first wanted to seduce her with his sensual words and hip movements but later accepted her rejection. It turned out that the Italian guy was confused and questioning his sexuality, and thought that Raiza would help here. Now he was calmer, as he had settled down with it; especially when he paired with charming Dite and stopped acting as a cheap gigolo. Dite was always a cheerful guy and it was fun to have him around. His advice in fashion and make-up was absolutely an asset for the band! Then there was Hyoga, a fragile young blond Russian-French boy who was overcoming the loss of her mom and was a keyboard magician. He was like a little brother, sweet sensitive yet troubled. Although there were difficult times for her and the band, they had fun together. No, I am not alone. I am happier than in that big crystal cage that was my home!

With these thoughts, Raiza came back to her conversation with Kanon. - Seems you have a heavy burden with you, Kanon. – She kindly asked him. She could feel his sadness and his loneliness.

-You are right! A family and personal burden….

- Kanon, if you want to tell me your story. Here I am. – She sincerely told him and lightly added. - Maybe it could inspire me to write a song, if you allowed me!

- I would be glad to tell it to you, Raiza, someday…!

- You already know where to find me. You can come whenever you want but do not disturb our show! – She answered him with a sweet and yet teasing smile.

Meanwhile the fight was over and Milo was cheered by the crowd. His skills on Thai boxing made the difference against Minos. The albino was on the floor. Raiza stood up to meet her friend. – I need to go, Kanon. Milo needs me now.

-OK! I'll be back to see you again, of course. – He promised her while his hand was still holding and caressing her hand.

Charming guy! It feels so good!

- Besides, I would want to know more about you, Raiza. What does a fine girl like you do in this hideous pub?

- It's my choice, Goldfinger! I am free to stay here and be myself! I love it! – She said with great determination. That was the choice of her life: to be Raiza Holt, the guitar player and leader of her band in that little pub. The name of their band expressed what they were: a naughty group full of mystic hope to find happiness in this life.

- That's true. I can only agree with you. If you are free here, then it's all that matters. We'll meet again, Raiza. There are not coincidences in this world. We were meant to meet today… maybe to work out great things in the future. - Kanon smiled, kissed the girl's hand and turned around to leave.

She smiled back as he walked away. Yes, he was flamboyant yet troubled. Although charming, somehow she perceived a dark shadows in his spirit. Or maybe it was just him being a finance dealer. What an interesting, dark-soul and bad boy type. Her mentor would have screamed to make her stay away from this kind of hunk. It was precisely what she would do otherwise. Being with Kanon would be a dangerous challenge: like sliding on ice.

Then Raiza approached Milo, who was enjoying a big jug of beer. Hyoga was taking care of his small wounds and scratches as Milo boasted how he defeated the albino. Minos wasn't a piece of cake! She disliked the way Minos wanted to control the people, as they were his puppets. He came quite often to the pub and he mostly tried to take her to his bed. He was cute but she would never dare to put herself in hands of such a control-freak. On the other hand, Kanon seemed different despite his flamboyance. And of course, being a handsome one was a half- ticket to forgiveness. It would be great to meet him again. Next time, I would want to know about you more, Kanon. I want to know about your happiness, your burden, and your sorrows. Next time, open your heart to me and tell me your story.

The morning after was a wonderful one. Spring was in the air! It was a warm sunny day and the perfume of flowers scented the air. It would be so lovely to wander around the gardens… although she was late for classes now!

Behind the wheel, Nikita was in deep meditation. Why didn't the alarm clock ring this morning? Maybe she didn't put it on last night, after that boring dinner with some of her parents' acquaintances. She was fed up with all her activities as Großherzogin Von Holt. What a bunch of tedious people!

Besides, there was a strange dad's-kind-of-friend last night, a Brit Lord who happened to be a judge. That stern tall judge, dressed in black, was intimidating and his golden eyes seemed to be following her everywhere… Or was her imagination? Their mentor Shion enjoyed his company while she was utterly bored, more than when she was forced to pay attention to Shaka's philosophical lectures in those gala dinners! Only Raiza seemed to be interested in meditating with that Indian magnate's heir, a young blond version of Arun Nayar who liked to talk to the people with his eyes shut!

When the judge approached her, Nikita didn't dare to talk to him and escaped towards her old fragile auntie Lady Sophrosyne Von Holt. Her twin Raiza might have enjoyed the evening flirting and chatting with everyone around, even with that horrible serious and monobrow judge! How could Raiza be so bizarre and careless? Oh, Raiza…! Nikita missed her so much although she would not say it to her older twin.

Actually, she needed to focus on her classes at the University...! The term was almost ending now and she must prepare the last exams! Maybe she would have a tour around the library this afternoon …! Would Prince Charming be there today? Nikita morning, she didn't have enough time to dress up for the occasion! She had time just to get a quick shower and put on a t-shirt and jeans! What a disaster!

Meanwhile, her cherry bright Porsche 911 Turbo S Cabriolet was racing towards the university campus main entrance. Because of her deep meditation, she didn't notice a fine white Bugatti Veyron 16.4 Super Sport Special Edition which swiftly turned on the left and bumped hers in the middle. She screamed. The day was getting worse! She was furious because of this accident, the lack of time for dressing up and moreover… she'd be late for classes! Again! Blessed timing!

A horn sounded gloomily! She was out the car just in time to see an icy-faced tall man getting out of the Bugatti, taking off his luxurious sunglasses with a swift cold movement. His eyes were hard as blue-green diamonds while his long dark blue greenish hair was neatly tied on his back. He seemed to live on the edge!

- Merde! Women must not drive! – He was seething with a slight foreign accent. Was it French? Belgian French? Swiss French? Although he was angry, his voice had a magic velvet touch.

- Excuse me? No one ever dare to talk to me that way! – She cried aloud. She was a proud member of the Von Holt family, a rich and aristocratic one! – Shut up, you're the only one to blame for this mess! Look at my car!

- I totally disagree with you. It was your fault! Look at my car! - The man replied in a cold tone, although it was clear that he was more than annoyed.

- What? Don't be fool! You bumped mine! Look at it!

- My car is damaged, too! We should go to court! – He said, his cold eyes flashing. He gave her his business card - By the way, madam, where did you learn to drive? Going on safari?

- What the hell….! – She screamed but then slowly read the fine marble color card – Monsieur Camus A. Sérac, Cryogenics Industries, CEO… Paris. - So he is French.

- Your name, madam? – Now his voice was polite but cold and full of sarcasm. – I bet you have a name…

- I have many names! – She retorted looking up to the handsome yet icy face, who was showing a puzzled yet amused sort of smile – You can call me Nikita Von Holt.

- I just want to know who's going to pay the fine and my car's reparations. Our insurance companies could settle this. – He sharply answered and wrote down Nikita's car license plate on his smartphone. He moved back to his car and waved his hand. – See you, Nikita.

- See you in Hell! – She yelled with frustration. She would be late for classes. What a stupid car accident! It was like sliding on ice! Their former tutor Shion would certainly make her paid for it.

But she might not know how true her words would be some day….!

Ten days after at the end of a rainy morning, Nikita was dressed up with a blue marine Dior suit and fancy high heels impatiently waiting in a room near the Court hall. It was a big gloomy building and people moved silently around her, busy with the hearings. The receptionist, a blond tall woman around her forties, dressed in a sexy black tight suit, was dismissively looking at everyone, like a queen bee at her servants. Then she received a call.

- Yes, Valentine, she has arrived before the scheduled time. She's waiting here. – She shrugged and then called aloud. – Miss Von Holt, would you like a cup of coffee or tea? The judge would see you in a couple of minutes because he's busy now.

- I'm ok, thank you. – Nikita gently answered but she thought that woman was a real harpy, like the ones depicted in certain old medieval Age paintings.

After fifteen minutes, a slender pink-haired young man dressed in a fine dark suit got in with a file and politely asked: – Großherzogin Von Holt?

- Here I am, mister judge! – She eagerly answered and gave her hand to the young man. At least, she would be out of this room. She was tired of being scrutinized by the old harpy.

He slightly chuckled. – No, I am not the judge. I am his assistant, Valentine. The Right Honourable regrets you had to wait but he's very busy now. He would have a brief interview with you. If you need anything else, I am at your service, milady. Please, come inside. – He said as he opened the big wooden door.

She was taken inside a formal bureau, dark yet impressive. Many shelves were full of old books and the furniture was massive yet so refined. But whom she found shocked her. She just whispered:

– You….!

A tall man dressed in black was facing her. His golden eyes stared at her, almost depriving her of every single cover. What a stern yet intimidating look!

- Welcome, Großherzogin Von Holt - He greeted her. – There's a suit alleged by Mr. Sérac because of a car accident. I need to ask you a couple of questions.

She entered the bureau of the judge and her heart sunk.

[1] Regular guest

[2] Goldfinger is a gold magnate and a villain character of a James Bond's movie.

[3] Äbbelwoi or Apfelwein is a German world for an apple wine or cider (a fermented alcoholic beverage made of apple juice).

[4] Apfelsaftschorle or Apfelschorle is soft drink made of apple juice and mineral water which is very popular in Germany.

[5] Fjord is a narrow inlet with steep sides and comes from Norwegian.