August
The days passed by in a blur of nothing. Neal had been in Parasa for almost six weeks now, but King Wilhelm was still pulling through. Neal visited often, though the old king was hardly coherent anymore.
He had never called Peter back after his accusation, and his calls to Mozzie were becoming less and less frequent. At first Mozzie had been on Neal's side, but he could tell that Mozzie's opinion was starting to sway as time went on. He didn't call Sara, either – what was the point? He had soon severed all connections to New York, except for the occasional call to Mozzie.
"You've changed, Neal," Mozzie had said when Neal had called him last time. "I don't know what it is, but you've changed. You're not who you used to be. Even working with the Feds was better than who you are now."
Neal had sighed in exasperation and bid farewell. That had been a week ago. He knew he was growing distant with his former partner-in-crime, but he found himself not even caring anymore. He belonged in Parasa, where he could rule the people fairly and without judgment. It was his duty.
At least, that's what he tried to tell himself.
WCWCWC
Neal sighed as he dialed Mozzie's number three days later. Mozzie answered, saying:
"It's about time I heard from you."
Neal ignored the disapproval in his friend's voice. He sighed again and said, "Mozz, I'm sorry. I need your help, though."
"Why should I help you? I thought you didn't care about New York anymore."
"Of course I care about New York," Neal started, but Mozzie interrupted.
"Oh, yeah? Then why are you off on some distant island instead of here? When was the last time you called the Suit?"
Neal swallowed uncomfortably. "Peter and I got into a sort of disagreement."
"Bull," Mozzie snapped. "You two always get into arguments, but you're always fine the next day. Why would you hold a grudge against him for five weeks?"
"Look, Mozzie, I didn't call you to talk about Peter," Neal said frustratedly. "I called because I need you to come to Parasa and help me."
Now Mozzie was curious. "You mean help you find the guy trying to kill you?"
Neal rolled his eyes but said only, "Yes. He's been lying low, but Wilhelm is dying. He could go any day now, and once he's gone, my would-be assassin is going to come at Ben and me even stronger. I need your help here."
Neal could hear Mozzie breathing on the other end of the line for a moment, and then Mozzie said simply, "I'll go to the airport tomorrow at five pm. I expect you'll have that jet ready and waiting for me."
Neal nodded and breathed, "Thanks, Mozz."
Mozzie sighed. "I still think you should call the Suit. He's not in the best shape right now." Then he hung up.