Disclaimer: I do not own Hiro Mashima's Fairy Tail, any work professionally associated with it, nor any pop culture or classical references. All original plots and characters are mine.
In a land far, far away lies the kingdom of Fiore, a small, peaceful nation of 17 million, and a place filled with Magic found in every home, bought and sold in every marketplace. For most, Magic is merely a tool, a mundane part of everyday life. For some, however, Magic is an art, and they've devoted their lives to its practice. These are the wizards. Banded together into magical guilds, they ply their skills in search of fame and fortune. Many such guilds dot the landscape of Fiore. But there is a certain guild in a certain town that soars high above the rest, one from which countless legends have been born. A guild that will no doubt continue to create legends well into the future. Its name...is Fairy Tail.
The room was dressed head to toe and Heart's Day galore with candles lit for those they loved and lost. Red hearts and pink hearts and white hearts littered the living room with other candles staged for ambiance. Rose petals decorated the table set for two with candelabra all dolled up and pretty. The food would come soon enough, but the plates and salad plates and the forks and spoons and knives and cloth napkins were set with chalices for the iced wine. Gifts were set up, however, for this date, but one was the most important gift. It was a photo album that spelled:
TALES OF HEART'S DAY
• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •
Hello, dear friends
Are you ready for tonight?
A story a little unconventional
But it has a happy tale in sight
•
So, relax, get comfy, while I tell a tale
Of a young lady who is strong
And her will to protect always prevails
•
• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •
This gift poised on such a romantic table with a Rainbow Rose and rings and candlelight was one that had been hard to track down. It was a traditional Zhōnguánese flower hair comb. But regardless that it had taken effort to track it down, it had not been properly cared for on the journey here.
• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •
•
This story might be a little dark
So, little ones, be advised
This tale shows the cruelty
Of the world and of people who exploit and incentivize
•
Follow our Mulan who chose long ago
To give up her powers
To protect the brother she loves very so
And, oh!
Did I mention there might be romance?
But of course, how could there not be?
After all, this is Heart's Day weekend
•
• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •
• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •
•
Prologue
Friday Night
•
• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •
The docks were an uneasy place to be this time of night. It did not matter that it was a holiday weekend. The harbor was lined with cargo containers that would board onto boats to go somewhere over the horizon. The cranes were limp, done from a hard day of work, while the watchtower was active and swept its gaze in a lazy circle. A few security guards roamed around with their flashlights and a few yawns here and there (though, one of the more arrogant guards had snuck off with his visiting girlfriend for some quick fun). The lake was gentle tonight for those cruising along.
• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •
« Blühenhaven Harbor is a city in Fiore on Lake Arethusa, which flows into Akane Beach and has Seven across the water. Blühenhaven is known for its cruel underbelly. Rumors have it that Dark Guild Deathhawk is stationed here and works closely with the Banshee Syndicate, an organization in Seven that runs a trafficking ring. »
• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •
A guard grunted as he and his lover fooled around in their own space, which meant he was not aware when a shadow bypassed them and continued through the organized maze of cargo containers. The shadow continued on their way with enough precision to avoid patrols, enough grace to not make a sound, and enough smarts to not cast a shadow. They fell deeper and deeper into this maze until they had more clarity to know where they were at. They fell into a crevice around a blue cargo container before they knelt down. Reaching into one of their pockets, they pulled out what looked like a hot glue gun and a hockey puck. The disk stuck to the metal while the liquid poured from the gun forged a rickety arch upon the unit.
HISSSSSSSSS….
The metal smoked a little as the liquid heated and burned through. After a few seconds, the gun was holstered, and the shadow grabbed the disk to remove the metal plate. They set it aside before going in. Darkness was ahead for them, but with a tap to their goggles, they were flushed with night vision, then thermal vision to bear witness to a few adults, some with guns and other weapons and one focused on his chemical nonsense, but a dozen or so children were being sealed away with their heat signatures either increasing to an alarming rate or cooling far too much.
The shadow crept forward. It was easy to see the unit they were in was not solitary, but it was connected with other units secretly. Unless the security guards had entered, they would have no idea this existed. The shadow climbed the steps as they dished out a pen, then fiddled with their earpiece when the harsh Sevonian tongue crackled through. Tapping their goggles, a stream came through of a real-time translation.
« The process is delicate. We can't rush perfection »
It looked like the one adult messing around with substances on a chemical bench had said this.
« You will rush when we say to rush, Doctor. Our transport leaves tonight and if you want to leave with us alive, you'll finish »
One of the guards with a gun had shoved the gun onto the scientist's back.
« Yes, of course, because threats always work »
The scientist stiffened as they continued their work.
The shadow half-listened to the conversation, but their focus was on the children. Two guards had been stationed to watch over them in a separate unit, but the kick was to get to the children, you had to enter the illegal laboratory set-up. But a map had guided her to seek out an alternative, if unconventional, method.
The two guards watching over the children with their vests and their guns looked obviously on edge yet pissed off this was their job. But money was money. The children locked away ranged from maybe two or three all the way up to ten years old. The oldest might have been thirteen. Their clothes ragged and eyes fearful, but they kept their mouths shut. Crying only meant they would get dragged out, and the bruises and untreated scratches and cuts were the punishment many of them had to bear.
GATAGATAGATA…
Both guards looked at each other, suspicious, but they let it be.
GATAGATAGATA…
This time, one of the guards drifted a little away to take a look around. The kids were caged and locked. The door was secure. Nothing should have made a noise. But just as they turned away, a yank forced them back. They whipped around, their gun at the ready, but they could do nothing when all they saw was a swirling energy that felt like it ate away their soul.
The second guard tensed, but they did not dare leave their post. Maybe that was why when the shadow slunk down, they noticed it too late. Eyes wide, their body slacked when a series of pressure points were pushed, but the shadow was quick to get the gun and the guard before they could make a noise. The guard was set down, but the gun was stripped apart of its magazine, so it could die with honor.
The children looked at this shadow in fear, but they were careful not to whimper or make a noise as though they all realized this shadow had saved them from their abusers. The shadow tapped their goggles to ID the kids and learned they were residents of this godforsaken harbor, but they were parentless and alone. Before they could lay any assurances, footsteps came to the door. Thermal vision on, they could see one of the guards was coming to unlock the door, so they disappeared.
CLICK-CLICK.
The door opened, and one of the guards came in. Their gaze swept around to realize both guards were down. They had no chance to breathe when their neck was hit with a dart. Gun off-safety, they took aim—
BAM!
The guard stumbled back as their gun shot off, but it did not matter. The shadow wrangled the gun away, regardless of the risk, and now guard and shadow were in the laboratory. It was quaint with fume hood, flasks galore, a centrifuge, a microscope, and stored vials, but now was not the time to dwell. The doctor was a short man with a receding hairline, a frumpy lab coat, and glasses that would come off any day now, but he was quick to finish his work so he could escape. The last remaining guard started firing shots, but the shadow—now, in the light, was just a person draped head to toe in black camouflage with multiple utility pockets—was prepared.
The bullets dropped the second they hit the shadow as the material absorbed the impact. They kept up their momentum to rush the guard, using the wall to get behind them, and pulled out a gun. The guard was pounced upon and injected, but they were frantic to get away, cursing in Sevonian. But the shadow pocketed their gun and used the energy stored in their suit to give it back to the guard, who went down without a flaw. The shadow fisted the guard's hair before slamming them down on the ground and knocking them out with the blood to prove it.
RATATATATATATATATA…!
The shadow looked up, unfazed, as the second guard, barely there, tried to shoot them out, but they stole the gun from the guard they knocked out and shot the leg of the second guard. The guard staggered, and the shadow was quick to disarm them before giving a delicious uppercut to render the guard unconscious and would be in deep pain later.
The doctor was the only one who tried his hand at flight rather than fight. Shaky hands went to the keypad that trapped him inside. He was close to freedom, but—
WAP-PUSH!
A knife stabbed through his hand and into the keypad that had him cry out in pain.
STEP… STEP… STEP…
With gritted teeth and uneven pants, he yanked out the knife and pathetically tried to keep typing, but he was stopped when his other hand was ripped away. He was forced against the door to stare at this shadowed vigilante in terror and begged in Sevonian, "Alstublieft! Dood me niet! Ze dwongen me hierin!Ik ben onschuldig!"
The shadowed vigilante replied in sultry Sevonian, "Ik weet zeker dat ze u hebben gedwongen, Dokter Parran. Ze dwongen u om het serum te maken om onschuldige kinderen met toekomsten voor zich in Versterkers te veranderen. Monsters." They stepped onto the wounded hand of the doctor and was not moved when Doctor Parran gasped and looked close to vomiting. "Ik ken uw verhaal, dokter. Gearresteerd voor illegale magische genetische experimenten op immigranten. Ontdaan van je titel voor het ontmenselijken van degenen die je denkt dat niets meer is dan labratten."
They leaned closer. "En ik weet dat je nieuwe eigenaren je uit de gevangenis hebben gehaald om af te maken wat er is begonnen omdat je deel uitmaakte van de illegale laboratoria van de MBI. En ik weet zeker dat ze je geld en vrouwen gaven om je gelukkig te houden in het verminken van onschuldige levens."
Doctor Parran offered one of those disgusting smiles and suggested with all the eagerness of a traitor, "Ik kan rustig komen. Ik zal—!"
"Shhhh…" the shadowed vigilante hushed. They spoke in Minstrish for this next part. "Your groveling means nothing when I know you can kill yourself or your owners have put a spell on you to kill you if you talk. No, doctor. I'm not interested in what you have to say."
Without warning, another injection gun was pulled and pressed into the doctor's neck. His lip quivered as he hyperventilated, but the injection was over and done with in the blink of an eye.
The shadowed vigilante holstered their gun and took several steps back before commanding, "Go."
Doctor Parran needed no other words. He finished the code to escape out the door and would most likely head out to the emergency exit, but the vigilante did not care. They turned away, striding back to the laboratory, but they lifted their wrist, and a hologram showed a map of the docks and a red dot labeled for the fleeing doctor. They swiped it away and stepped over the bodies of the guards to get to the children, who watched them quietly.
"You're safe now, children," the shadowed vigilante promised with all the security in the world. "You will not be caged again."
°•°•°•°
A heavier guard yawned as he rounded a corner. It was the same ole, same ole. He stuck to his route, exchanged greetings with another patrolling security guard, checked in, took a nap, then he started all over again, but night security was necessary for Blühenhaven.
WOOF! WOOF!
The guard squinted and looked around. His flashlight went here and there until his eyes widened when he saw a group of shivering children all bunched together with bruises and blood. He faltered getting out his radio, gobsmacked, and called it in. "Fellas, call into the station and prepare for some blankets and water," he radioed. "Looks like I've found…a group of lost kids…"
°•°•°•°
From the safety of the shadows, the vigilante watched as multiple Guard cars and an ambulance had come. The children had all been given blankets and warm beverages, but most were still silent, fearful of adults, while the smaller children broke into tears and clung to the older kids who had been a source of comfort during their imprisonment. Only two children had to suffer through ambulatory care, both Aberrants who had needed specific conditions to thrive and were malnourished and far too drained.
BEEP-BEEP.
The shadowed silhouette was on top of a sleek motorcycle built for speed and not for passengers. They tapped their earpiece and muttered, "I take it the good pet doctor got to his safe house?"
"He's in a vehicle being taken there," a masculine voice reported with a bit of a goofy tone. "The bloodstream tracker will hold until they decide to murder him."
"Good. I'd hate for our lead into the Bureau to disappear on us," the vigilante sighed. "Better to let a rat lead us to the nest than to kill one rat." They sat back, relieved as the cars started moving away with the children inside. "The lab? The guards?"
"Damage Control will handle it," the voice assured. "They already entered by the time you left."
"Good. And the serum?"
"Not confirmed yet, but we can assume that the serum would have been used for Enhancers. But, from the scan you gave me, none of those kids were ever injected. Looks like this was only in the middle stages, so you saved those kids from becoming less than human."
The vigilante hummed and looked across the wide lake where Seven stood. You could see the borders during the day, but at night, you just knew it lurked beyond the waters. "The syndicate is gearing up for something. That dictator knows it, but she turns a blind eye and forces Wizards to suffer and the poor to be forced to turn into Enhancers." They shook their head in dismay before letting out a loose breath.
"Children and women have been the syndicate and Deathhawks' targets to turn into Enhancers," came explanation. "Men turned out to be too aggressive and end up going through a brain aneurysm, cardiac arrest, or otherwise too early on after being turned into an Enhancer. Children and women are easier to manipulate. And, at times, the poor and screwed-up who would do anything if it meant they could get their hands on more drugs."
The vigilante let out a terse breath. "Organizations like them stole my brother from home."
"We still don't know if Deathhawk and the Syndicate correspond with the Bureau. At least…not yet. I'm still working on finding concrete evidence in the connection, but it'll take some time. They've got someone on the other side who has the same skills as me to shut me out. But I'm trying my hardest to breakthrough, Nightingale."
"I know. I appreciate it." Nightingale revved the engine before the motorcycle launched and left a quickly fading streak of blue in their wake. "So. You wouldn't call if you just wanted to tell me 'job well done'. What do you have?"
BLIP!
The goggles loaded with images of hooded characters entering a warehouse, but they had to bypass the security guards in order to do so. "I have a fight tomorrow underneath the club scene. Mudamir is a Magic fight ring that shifts from week to week with a rave to cover it up. Mainly has Wizards who do the fighting and maybe some illegal Enchanters. But check out this photo in specific."
A photo of two hooded figures speaking with a security guard was zoomed in and enhanced to show what one of the figures was holding. It glinted silver, and Nightingale instantly knew. "A Warlock."
"Bingo." The photos were scrapped to show a translucent map. "When I checked into the faces, I didn't recognize too many, but it was clear not all of them were fighters. I ID'ed a few top bosses in the underworld are coming in, but that's not all. Some rumors on a forum leaked that The Doctor and the Cerberus Hunter will make an appearance."
"You're kidding."
"I wish. The Cerberus Hunter has been lying pretty low ever since his civilian self was released. He's not even supposed to be in Fiore. His civvie persona is allegedly with his wife on a much-needed second honeymoon from his time in prison, but you know how that is. His civvie face might be easy to ID, but something about him makes it impossible for him to match with his Hunter persona. These forums like to hype shit up, obviously, but the fact the head bosses are coming in could mean this is legit."
Nightingale drove her motorcycle beneath a highway bridge. "But why would the heads come to some rinky-dink fight night?"
"The Doctor and the Cerberus Hunter aren't just people you send your seconds-in-command to meet. And it'll be inconspicuous doing it this way. The more fire power you bring, the more you tell others that something is going down. The less you bring means you're less protected, but let's be real. Head bosses aren't raised defenseless and, if they were, they didn't stay that way."
Nightingale sighed. "So, the Cerberus Hunter and The Doctor are having a little meeting with gangs and mobs to—let me guess. To help recruit fresh blood for another project? How cliché."
"But it works," the voice pointed out. "If they stole people off the streets at random, people would notice, and they would have the Guard and the military on alert. Stealing people with criminal records, who are orphaned, or no one who will miss them? It's ingenious."
Nightingale dryly commented as she zigzagged under the bridge to avoid crates and trash, "I'm so happy the villains earned your respect."
"Not respect, but they are smart, which means it'll be tough getting into the fight without some sort of invitation or an insane amount of money. Lucky for you, I managed to snag you one, but you'll have to be some arm candy since you're technically a plus one. I even picked out an outfit for you and your own mask to work with the Voice Modulator Spell. I'll wait for praise."
"And you'll be waiting for a long time," Nightingale muttered. "Don't you have a girlfriend? Have her praise you instead, Noko."
Noko snickered. "She does praise me. Regularly, in fact." He started getting hyped. "She likes to worship my—"
"That's enough."
"No one lets me brag about her," Noko complained.
"Back to the main topic."
"Yeah, yeah, right. You'll have to forgive one of my associates. You and another fine lady will be his arm candy, but you might want to watch yourself with them. He's been humping her leg for a while now, so prepare to be a third wheel. They have some other business to do during the fight, but they'll give you a window for you to do your fun spy thing."
Nightingale curved the bike as the overhead bridge did. "Wonderful. I love being a third wheel."
"That's the spirit." Noko erased the map and all other information. "I'll send you more information later, but it looks like your late-night booty call is about to give you a ring soon. I'm out to FaceCall my hot as fuck girlfriend!"
"Wait—!" Nightingale vigilante groaned when the call was dropped only for another call to patch through. She pressed the earpiece to answer it. "Hey, what's up?"
"Just wanted to see if you'd be up for coming over tonight," came nonchalant inquiry. "Cane got some ass tonight, so now I'm all lonely with all this booze."
"Inviting me over on the holiday known for cuffing?" Nightingale teased. She leaned down when she saw a ramp had been lowered for her to get onto the bridge. "Aren't you a bold one? Aren't you afraid I'll start demanding presents? A relationship?"
"Not in the slightest," came a laugh. "Look, if you're busy, I get it. I was just curious."
"Nah, I'm not." Nightingale glanced down to check her screen and tapped in an address. "Sure, I'll come over. But don't expect me to be up for a lot. Tonight was a bit of a long night."
"Then just come over and let me please you, Peaches," came suggested purr. "I've been begging you to just relax and let me take care of you for a while now. What do you say?"
"I say…"—Nightingale climbed up the bridge as her suit powered down and left her with stretchy pants that clung to her legs, a zipped up leather jacket, and a helmet covering blue hair and that showed vibrant blues—"I'm looking forward to it, Dash."
• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •
•
hitori ja kowakatta yoru demo
futari de nara tasukeatte
chikazukeru SATERAITO
irodoru machi o tobikoetara
sashidashita te o tsukamu "yatto aeta ne"
futatsu no kiseki ni omedetou
•
• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •
• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •
•
Saturday
•
• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •
"Nnngh…!"
"Ah…!"
Sweat and musk steamed the air in a thick scent as Dash caged a boneless Julia underneath him with their breathing fettered and the comforter shielding them in rumpled disarray. She pushed back damp locks and let out half a laugh and half an exhale as she breathed, "I thought you said you were tired?" She hummed, pleased, when Dash kissed her shoulder.
"Exactly. This is what I'm like when I'm tired," he murmured into her skin before kissing her neck. Still flushed together, he pulled them both on their sides and threaded their hands together. "You okay?"
"Mmm…" She peeked over her shoulder to smile. "Just grateful Gale said he was heading to The Society today because he'd kill you."
Dash snorted. "You'd think he was an overprotective boyfriend with you."
"Nope. But he's basically my favorite cousin, and we've been through a lot together," Julia sighed. "We look out for each other." She grinned. "And it doesn't help that you have a reputation that he knows all about."
"Ugh, my whore ways are coming back to bite me in the ass." His smile widened when Julia snorted. "The Hell do I get the third degree from him? You're no saint." Before she could argue, he pulled out and left her groaning. "But I'll take him just letting me off with a verbal warning. Cane had it worse."
Julia adjusted. "No, Cane would be six feet under if Jaxton and Gale had their way." She frowned. "I get that he's thirsty all the time, but I'm a little surprised he took it that far with Tesla. He might be a manwhore and likes to flirt, but he's pretty respectful and doesn't touch taken people…intentionally, at least."
"I don't know what's going on with him," Dash admitted. "He doesn't even remember touching Tesla, and we both wrote it off that he was past high when it happened, and he said he wouldn't do it again." He shrugged and snuggled Julia against his front and thumbed her breasts. "But, yeah, he keeps his hands to himself when someone's spoken for."
Julia remembered seeing a bored Cane against a wall while a girl wearing bantu knots looked to be chastising him on a number of things. And him hanging out with Miles' ex isn't like him either. He never speaks to any of our exes. Tucking away the information, she turned around to face Dash and kissed his lips. "How's Iris?"
"She's fine. She was singing praises when I came to visit with treats for her and all of her friends," Dash chuckled. "Her mom and her stepdad came."
"Yeah?"
Dash hummed. "Mama still insists I call her 'Mama'. She's been getting better with her cancer in remission. And Mister Ross was great. He's pretty impressed with my stock portfolio and offered to come with me to some university tours since I want to transfer." His face twisted at the thought.
Julia thumbed his cheek. "Still not thinking of going with your dad?" Soft words. No accusations.
"Nah." Dash waved a hand before he settled it on Julia's hip. "I'm not in the mood to break it up between him and his new girlfriend or whoever. I already have enough to deal with. Aunt Cana swore up and down she'd come with me, but the last tour we went on, she abandoned me, and I found her out-drinking everybody on Encan Avenue." He shook his head in amusement. "Like damn, I'm glad I have an aunt as cool as her, but also, she is a bloodhound for booze."
"And we wonder where Cane gets it from?" Julia tittered. "I'm surprised he went out last night. Normally, he sticks with his mom, right?"
Dash brushed back his hair. "Yeah. His dad normally comes around this time of year, so Cane pretty much hangs back to be a barrier for Aunt Cana. But this year?" He made a vague shrugging gesture. "I don't know. She said she was going out with Grandpa Gildarts to visit her late mother's hometown for a Heart's Day pilgrimage. We offered to come with, but she said Gildarts was more than enough if Cane's dad came looking for her."
"His dad is a Guild Master, and he's on par with our own Guild Master," Julia pointed out. "You and Cane must get along so well with your daddy issues."
Dash snickered. "Yeah, that's what we based our bromance on." He ran a hand down Julia's back. "No pilgrimage for you this year?"
"No, not this year." Julia's eyes fluttered close underneath Dash's touch. "My parents had some thing last night, but my dad said he and my mom would be okay doing the pilgrimage to his old master's house and then his hometown. I have no clue what Gary is doing, and Silver…" She nose-scrunched up when she remembered seeing Silver dead asleep on the bathroom floor with a toothbrush in his mouth and half his teeth brushed.
"I honestly don't know what he's doing. He's been acting weirder than usual for a while." She rolled her eyes. "But my dad said I'm not allowed to tease him since this is a sensitive time for him. He makes it sound like I torment him."
Dash could vividly see a young Julia looking like a villain with a dramatic cape and horns as she laughed while a little Silver had tears in his eyes and comically scrambled to flee. "To be fair, I sorta remember you being a little bit of a bully to him."
Julia gaped. "I did not bully him. He's my little brother. Obviously, I'm going to tease the shit out of him." Though, she grumbled when she remembered how, in their younger days, Silver always ran to Gary to hide and for comfort. "I just have pussies for brothers. I would die for Gary, but I just"—she physically cringed to get her point across—"whenever I'd have to witness how in love he's in with Nashi. You might have seen it at the guild, but I had to live with him. He had more of those inaccurate 'Does my crush like me back?' quiz things from teen girl magazines than I ever looked at in my entire life."
Dash threw back his head to laugh. "Silver might get there too, y'know."
"What do you mean?" Julia came to a conclusion, and she vehemently shook her head. "No. I refuse to believe it. Ena would murder him."
Dash hissed, grinning. "I don't know, Peaches. When I was at her shareholder and investor meeting for the fourth quarter—"
"You have shares in Ena's empire?"
"Yeah." Dash chortled at the bemusement written on Julia's face. "She's a brilliant person with well-executed plans, and I like her stuff. I have the money, anyway, so why not? Plus, she's guild, and you have to support guild." He rubbed his nose. "Though, she put her sword to my throat and had me swear I could only buy shares with 'clean' money."
"Good girl," Julia muttered. "Continue."
Dash shot her an amused look. "Well, during the meeting, Ena was sitting there, looking like the fierce lady boss she is, and Silver was there to the side and…" He shrugged. "I don't know. You should have seen it. Poor guy looked like if she told him she wanted him to crawl, he'd do it in a heartbeat with a smile on his face."
"Oh, god, not again…!" Julia groaned as she rubbed her eyes. "I mean I teased him about her, but I didn't actually think something would come out of it. I mean, look at her, Dash. Like, Luna might be too good for Gale, but, eh, I can comfortably say there is potential. Ena is a total badass. I've been to her steel fights for support, and I know she can rip apart people twice her age. And Silver is…"
"A pussy?" Dash offered with his lips twitching.
Julia smacked him for throwing her words back in her face. "Whatever. His funeral. Maybe that's why Dad said he's in a 'sensitive time'." Her face screwed up. "I even pitied him a little and made him a bath with my good bath bombs. Little asshole." She smiled when Dash chuckled. "Off the topic of whatever weirdness my brother is going through, what are your plans for the day?"
"Not much. Cane's out, Dante is probably getting some relief—"
"Never once has Dante ever been a rude person," Julia clarified, "but even I could tell he was getting snippy and looked ready to start a fight. If Carlisle rejected him while they were in Zvonvratia, we are all fucked."
"Wait." Dash reached over to take his Compact off the charger. "I'm pretty sure he sent out a text about how it went." He scrolled through his list of notifications in search for it before he found the group chat and checked it out. A satisfied grin smacked his face. "He said, 'yes', Peaches."
"Ah, for real?" Julia looked at the screen, read the message, and beamed. "Aw…! Dante has an official boyfriend now, and Gale's going to be so pissy." Her beam widened when she saw Tesla's message. "And Tesla's hyped she found someone her speed."
• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •
Prince
« He said yes »
God Bless Tess
« AAAH »
« AHFNDOFSN »
« BITCH I TOLD YOU HE WOULD YOU TAKEN NOW »
Jaxton
« Congratulations. »
Prince
« Thanks »
Citizen Cane
« Awesome! »
« Now can you please stop making us all feel nervous you're gonna fight someone lmao »
Miles
« AAAH CONGRATS »
« I agree with Candy Cane pleeeease be with your bf so we can stop suffering in silence »
Kitty Kat
« Congrats boo now please handle your business so you don't come home cranky. We miss our chill prince, not our testosterone I am man here me roar prince »
Gale
« So like does this mean yall actually gonna fuck instead of trying to beat me up at the gym? »
« No offense bro but I'd rather you take it out on your boyfriend than me »
Jaxton
« Seconded. »
Miles
« Is thirded a word? »
Citizen
« Hard fucking fourth-ed. »
Prince
« You guys are dicks »
God Bless Tess
« *whispers* he totally got dick last night »
Prince
« Tesla. »
God Bless Tess
« Ahem whoopsie let me phrase »
« Carlisle got dick last night »
Prince
« Jaxton »
Jaxton
« Yeah, I know. »
• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •
Dash looked down at Julia. "Did you want to type something back?"
"Sure." Julia stole the Compact and read aloud as she typed, "'Congratulation from Dash and JJ. Don't break Carlisle. We like him too much'. And send." She offered the Compact back to Dash. "Here. Thanks."
"No problem." Dash locked his Compact and set it down before swathing Julia in his arms. "Give Tesla some time to get everything out of her system," he murmured. "Meeting Jaxton's family is probably nerve-wracking for her."
"But she used to tell me that sort of thing," Julia sighed. "She was glued to Dante, obviously, and she and Jaxton were openly communicative, but she and I would talk on the Com for hours, Dash. We'd bounce from one topic to the next to the next and wouldn't even realize how late it got." She chuckled to herself. "Jaxton would get pissy because I'd be stealing her away from him." Her eyes turned wry. "And then I'd start hearing noises."
"Out of any couple I know, they are one of the only ones who will legit let the Com call continue while they're getting busy. But, Hell, I don't mind."
Julia slapped Dash's chest when he burst into a laugh, but she could not help but laugh with them. "Dante had to get used to it, but he's always been unfazed. Gale and Kat straight-up do not care, but Miles gets all blushy that it's so cute." Her laughter faded. "When she gets home from Zhōnguá, I want to talk to her. Yeah, I know, I know, give her time," she recited before Dash could advise her. "But I miss my best friend." And I have a lot to explain to her.
"Whatever you want, Peaches," Dash murmured before kissing her cheek. A grunt escaped him as he sat up. "You have any plans today?"
"Tonight, I do," Julia explained. "But for the entire today? Nada."
"Perfect." Dash slid on top of her to kiss her throat then her lips. "I know this holiday is basically all of cuffing season, and I swear I'm not trying to cuff you, but, if you're interested, we could go get food and do something."
Julia toyed with Dash's hair. "Like what? I promised my parents I'd make sure Silver's still alive before I went anywhere today."
"I'm sure we can figure out something," Dash proposed. "I've been meaning to go bowling."
Julia inched up an eyebrow while she smiled. "'Bowling'?"
"Hell yeah. Cal's mom was heavy into bowling when Jet was married to her, and I loved bowling," Dash told her. "You've seen my bowling balls whenever the gang would go bowling, so why not?"
Julia shrugged. "Sure. Bowling sounds fun. Maybe a movie." Her eyes lit up. "There's this new horror movie I've been dying to see, but Gary and Silver are complete wusses when it comes to horror movies." Another heavy eye roll. "Which I can understand Silver, but the last time I saw a horror movie with Gary, I had to drag him out halfway. And I know Nashi loves horror movies." Her smile turned gleeful. "Oh, I cannot wait for them to watch a horror movie and for her to realize her ultra-bad-ass-S-Class boyfriend is afraid of Annabelle."
Dash cackled. "Bowling and a horror movie sound perfect for anti-Heart's Day celebrating." He brushed back a flyaway hair. "Do you need me to drop you off anywhere after?"
"Just home."
"Sure." He moved to get up when Julia's legs locked him. He grinned. "Are you sure?"
Julia pulled him down so her lips brushed his. "Definitely." And she closed the distance for a heart-stopping kiss.
• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •
Fairy Adventure 088
•
Tales of Heart's Day Weekend
Tale of Julia and Dash
Mulan
•
ハートの日の週末の物語
ジュリアとダッシュの物語
ムーラン
• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •
The city was a blur of light streaks and noise, even if the night was young. No one had the time to laze about. The stream of pedestrian traffic would not allow the weak-hearted and the slow unless they were willing to be trampled. In a subway station below, a ragtag group of jazz musicians was playing a jazz fusion piece from a pop song as the baritone sax player used fancy footwork. A foreign activist violinist played to the beat of a rap song on the street, and a group of four young men decided to dance along. A few smoking cross-dressing dominatrixes were gossiping over a new client with his interest in full-body leather. An Éirush bar patrons were swaying back and forth together as a traditional song was played by the band. Another robber had broken out, and the Guard was in hot pursuit.
• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •
•
Blühenhaven Harbor
Fiore, Ishgar
11:05 PM FST
•
• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •
The warehouse had flashing lights popping from the windows. PRIVATE PROPERTY was stained onto signs with chain-link fences with a few security cameras scanning the perimeter, but it was apparent that those entering the warehouse were coming for a good time. From dresses that barely covered anything to sweatshirts, people rushed to get here with their vehicles close by and money was no option to purchase a spot inside. The bouncers were two women and, of course, you had some who thought they could take them down, only to be disarmed and on the ground faster than they could blink. This was no time to be arrogant.
However…
The bouncers looked on when three people approached them. A well-dressed man with small round retro sunglasses had sauntered forward with a confident swag, his sleeves rolled up, and a chain attached to his pin-striped vest. His hands were full with two beautiful young women. The one on the right was a beautifully thick woman with her hair swung into a braided updo and a white-gold venetian half mask pressed upon her face, a color that bled through her bodycon dress. Her choker was transitioned to white, but those yellow-greens were hypnotic if you stared too long. On the man's left was a young lady in a feathered black-pink mask and a matching slitted qipao dress with her own clutch and a fancy beaded bracelet.
The man spoke first with that lady-catching accent to the bouncers, "I'm here to check out a gate down below."
The bouncers stepped aside to open the doors.
The man walked through with his women on either arm. The club scene was drenched in sex, sweat, and cigarettes with strobe lights that could blind. But those who danced had little care in the world. After all, their money paid for their spot here and guaranteed they would be alerted if the Guard started sniffing around. The fumes warmed your skin to easily overheat. The drinks were laced, but who cared enough to stop it? Already, people had been strung up on weed, acid, and cocaine, sharing dabs and snorting off someone's stomach. Where the strobe lights could not touch, couples with no propriety were rancorous in their fucking and did not care who saw them. It was that sort of club.
Yellow-greens shrewdly narrowed in disdain, and she sniffed, but the man grinned and teased her, "See anything you like, mon ké."
"Keep your eyes on the prize, Bastien," she absently responded as her eyes shifted around. "I'm not up for grabs."
Bastien chuckled as he squeezed her side. "Come now, ma chérie—"
"Jean." Her eyes swept to him in a cold glare, but she cradled his jaw and leaned into his touch to play the part of a pleased lover. "Bastien," she hissed lowly, "don't make me get naughty."
Bastien sighed, but his grin carried on. "But I enjoy you naughty. I'm envie for you right now." His lips twitched when he could feel her wrath from her glower. He turned his attention to the other young lady and offered a sheepish apology, "Sorry, sha." He lowered his head to murmur in her ear and give the illusion he was offering sweet nothings. "Almost there."
She hummed, but she turned her head as though rejecting his words.
Bastien led both women through the throng with relative ease. A nod there and a greeting there with promises to come by later. Most had eyes for his stunning escort and her mystifying eyes and paid little attention to the other young lady, but that was just how they wanted it. Jean took it in stride and traded the cold look she harbored towards Bastien with demurred smiles and lustful size-ups of prospects. And Bastien played the part of a possessive lover. Only a few times did the young lady get some semblance of attention, but she was tucked into Bastien's side and her disinterest and bland look let those who glanced at her she was not the kind of "fun" they were looking for.
Another set of bouncers waited with black curtains behind, but Bastien's quick phrase had them step aside. In they went beyond the curtain to enter an erotic scene. Overnight, this desolate room that used to be concrete and metal was carpeted with velvet, plush furniture, a bar, and a pole. A dancer entertained where he could on the pole, but most of those who stayed in this room had rumpled clothes as they indulged in the finer things in life. A wanton moan mixed in with this bass-dropping mixtape as a climax was reached. A heavier man had cheeks flushed and eyes glazed as a young gentleman with boyish looks serviced him.
Bastien snickered over his young lady's flat reaction. "Almost there."
The trio kept going until they got to the bouncers in the back. A quick phrase and they were allowed back where the warehouse interior remained and a maintenance elevator with illegal guards with their guns were available for all to see. A Wizard was in charge of scanning those who entered into the maintenance elevator, but there was something off with the Wizard. They were dressed nice, but they had a collar and a leash on like a common animal, but it was worse when you saw shock marks. Their Eye Magic was how they scanned the incoming guests, and they scanned over the three before nodding at their handler with a sunken gaze.
CRANK…
The elevator carried another security guard. All pretenses like they were reminders of who was in control. The elevator sunk down and, instantly, you could hear blaring music, vibrations, and the pounds of flesh being taken. The floor they were taken was the surrounding balcony since below was packed easily with five-hundred watchers as they screamed and hollered, money held in the air to play into gambling for a winner. Drinks sloshed and people showed to get a good look at the centerpiece. Bastien, Jean, and the young lady went to the railing with the other luxurious dressed guests to look at the cage in the center of the floor.
Easy to tell the cage was magically reinforced with unbreakable runes set to punish those who broke it and a bundle of protective enchantments. No referee was needed. This was not a fair fight. What sort of fairness did people expect? But an announcer who was a Lacroid with a buoyant personality gave a blow-by-blow for those who could not see it. The current fight was a quick-footed Alchemist with two metal arms while a muscle-bound Darkness Mage took their shot. The fight had turned brutal with blood sprayed and flesh torn, but neither one of them was ready to stop until—
The Darkness Mage made chains of their Magic to grab hold onto the Alchemist and ruthlessly ripped their prosthetics. A blood-stopping cry forced out of the Alchemist's bloodied lips. Where flesh met metal bled uncomfortably, and the Alchemist fell to their knees then collapsed onto their stomach. It could have ended there, but the Darkness Mage was not done. With a smirk, he threw the arms away and pounced. He dragged up the Alchemist by their hair and dished one-two-three-four-five pushes to the face. Such force accosted the Alchemist several teeth, sputters of blood, and a face that would not be healed with ease.
The head lulled.
The Alchemist was down.
"K.O.! And Machine Gun Jones is down!" the Lacroid announcer hollered as the bludgeoned Alchemist laid on the ground almost in a death-like sleep. "Bitches and bros and non-binary hoes, the winner – is – Darkstar!"
The crowd roared with screams and some boo's, but Darkstar drew up the mayhem as he dropped the Alchemist and basked in the praise. Two wiry men, as promised, came to congratulate Darkstar with kisses on the cheek, and Darkstar openly groped them as his spoils from war, ready to indulge in his winnings.
Bastien, Jean, and the young lady watched as the others all ritzy and wealthy who settled along the rails would collect their earnings at the end of fight night and exchanged words, drinks, and even people. Bastien looked down at Jean and asked, "Anyone you want me to bet on, ma chérie? My money is yours, y'know."
"I'll hold out until the big event," Jean decided.
Bastien glanced down at the young lady. "And you, little lady?"
She shook her head.
"Bastien…!"
The man in question lifted his head to grin as a woman with long acrylics, a snakeskin ao dai, and a mole by her sharp eyes. Two guards trailed her, but she had the interesting addition of a teenage boy collared and chained to her. He had been nicely dressed, but it was a façade when you saw his swollen cheek and black eye.
Bastien let go of his two women to bow in the approaching woman's presence. "Broker."
Broker's grin widened as she lifted Bastien to give him air-kisses and place her hands on his biceps. "Glad to see you could make it. You're my favorite gambler." She winked at him after taking a lustful drag of his physique. "And my favorite eye candy." She purred as she sucked on her bottom lip.
Bastien offered a rakish grin in return. "Sha, don't look at me like that. You know I bite."
"I'm counting on it." Broker's eyes drifted to a disinterested Jean, and something in her eyes flared. "But I'm much more interested in her. Is she finally up for sale?" She vaguely gestured to all around them. "I have excellent buyers who would treasure her for a hefty jewel."
"Not for sale," Bastien swiftly dinned and laid a possessive arm around Jean's waist and kissed her neck. "She's all mine."
Broker snorted. "Well, I can't blame you." She sighed as she clacked her acrylics against her cheek. "One day, though, I'll have to add her to my inventory." She jerked on her leash, and the teenaged boy stumbled forward only for his breathing to hitch when she gripped his chin. "Do you like him? He's such a darling little thing. Bought him in Shamballa. Such wasted potential." Her nails dug into the boy's skin. "His Madame didn't want to part with him since he has such a beautiful face, but his powers are to die for." She shoved the boy away and he fell to his knees, coughing.
Broker shrugged with a saucy smile. "And his skills from his whorehouse come in handy," she added with a laugh. She yanked on the leash, and the boy was jerked around. "Did you see the line-up? Anyone you're interested in tonight?"
"Mon ké wants me to wait to place my bets until the main event," Bastien explained.
Broker's eyes glinted in interest. "Well, if you're holding out until the main event, then I don't suppose you have some time on your hands?" She sauntered forth to drag a nail down Bastien's chest with intent. "It's been so long…"
"Sha," Bastien said gently, "you know I have some beautiful guests with me."
Broker did not give either woman the time of day. "I'm sure we can find someone to amuse them. Come on now, Bastien." She tilted up her chin to stare into his glasses and sung, "I won't take, 'no' for an answer…"
Bastien flashed a grin and dipped his head to whisper in her ear, "Then, I'll need to make sure my ladies are taken care of before I can please you, Cher."
Broker tittered. "Then, what are we waiting for?" She pulled back to crook a finger. "Follow me."
Where Broker led them to what looked like it used to be where the surveyors would perch behind large glass windows. The guards let them in without hesitation, and the trio was engulfed in smoke and ecstasy. The music was low and full of feminine moans, but that was to help muffle the surrounding conversation. Tables had been brought in where half-naked services played their part to deliver all sorts of beverages, but the servers had things in common. Some were Aberrants, taken in for their "exotic looks" like having fox tails, cat fur, wolf ears, but others had obviously been Wizards with their powers frittered away under their sealstone collars and branded on their hips was either an M, AL, AK, or W for which ability they possessed.
They were cattle.
They were slaves.
The young lady looked around only her eyes to hang onto an older gentleman with a monocle who looked familiar in his suit and tie. He looked to be in serious negotiation with a robust woman, but he was enjoying foxy Aberrant at his side who kept his glass full and her smile there, but her eyes spoke of the horrors she endured.
TAP… TAP…
The young lady felt twin taps on her side and blinked twice. Maybe to others, she was just staring, but for a moment, a ring went around her eyes. Scanners set out and started identifying people left and right. But it was confirmed the older gentleman and the robust woman had both come from the Fioren parliament. Her eyes narrowed as pictures were taken through her contacts, but she blinked and looked down before she was caught.
Broker was happy enough to lead them when one of her underlings stopped her with hurried whispers. A scowl marred Broker's face, but she ridded it for an exhaustive sigh and dismissed her underling. She turned back to Bastien with a hint of remorse. "Sorry, Bastien, but it looks like I have a few fires to put out."
"No need to apologize," Bastien dismissed. "I plan to stay until the main event."
Broker grinned. "And I'll make sure to be finished before you can slip from my claws." She snapped her fingers, and an obedient bunny-eared Aberrant with an offensive collar hustled over, head down. "Make sure my guest is taken care of," she commanded. "If you make so much as one slip-up, I'll make sure you're the one to take care of Cerberus." She added in a loud and slow whisper, "And I hear he's been frustrated lately."
The bunny-eared Aberrant paled. "I won't fail you, Madame. I promise."
"Good." Broker smiled at Bastien before closing the gap and pressing a wet kiss on his cheek that left a lipstick stain. Satisfaction fed her eyes as she gazed at her claim. "I'll be back." She tugged on the leash, and the teenaged boy stumbled after her fast stride.
The bunny-eared Aberrant made sure to take Bastien, Jean, and the young lady to their own circular half-booth where cigars were shared and a few giggles here and there. Bastien had ordered on everyone's behalf and declined additional services. The Aberrant bowed and scurried away.
Bastien smoothly rubbed away the lipstick stain. "She gets clingier every time I visit." He snuck a look at Jean. "Jealous, ma chérie?"
"Not a chance." Jean turned to him with those freezing yellow-greens and played her part as she sidled up to him and tongued his neck. He shivered, but she crooked a finger for the young lady to close in and join her. Once she had done so, Jean whispered, "You have a layout?"
The young lady nodded.
"Good." Jean roamed her hands up and down Bastien's chest as her eyes dropped to his throat. A genuine hunger bled through her eyes, but there was not a hint of lust. "Looks like your dog is here. Go." Yellow-greens flicked to the young lady. "We have other things to do." She turned back to Bastien as she thumbed his throat. "Don't we?"
Bastien dipped his head to whisper without a pinch of his natural swagger, "Do you need a little?"
"I'm never taking any from you again," Jean breathed. To shush Bastien's concern (and perhaps his hurt), she slatted on her leg atop his thigh and brought his hand down to touch her inner thigh. She nodded over to the young lady and emphasized, "Go." Without ceremony, she pulled down Bastien into a kiss. After a brief hesitation, Bastien eagerly responded and held her close.
The young lady nodded and moved away. Her stride was kick and no-nonsense, but her eyes scanned the perimeter. Guards were stationed at every exit to a side hallway, never straying to protect and defend what their contracts entailed. She bypassed tables riddled with conversation, sharing a smoke, and it looked like one Wiccan had to endure the touch of a client as his face tore with pain. She went to a guard defending a hall and asked him a sweetened tone, a little giggly, "Where's the bathroom?"
The guard checked her from head to toe, from her unsteady gait to the flimsy smile, and gave an absent gesture down the hall.
She giggled. "Thanks, handsome." She squeezed his bicep as she passed him and the other guard to stumble down the hall. Thankfully, the bathrooms were close by and empty, but she took no chances. She got into a stall and locked it before her mask came off to show those blues.
Julia adjusted her bracelet to press down on the biggest bead. A surge overwhelmed her with a burn that used to hurt her, but she was familiar with it now. Her dress was no more as her black suit and utility pockets clung to her person with even her heels transitioning into shock-absorbent shoes. She dipped into her clutch to bring out her earpiece and pressed it in while she shoved her clutch into one of her pocket-dimension utility pouches.
"So…? How'd you like being the third-wheel?" Noko teased.
Julia brought up her mouth and nose covering to shield the bottom portion of her face. "Cerberus is here. Can you find him?" She looked up to see the ceiling vent and got to work.
"I've been hacking away at their private security unit since I was told about fight night. Of course I can see him and I know where the meeting is. I'm sending the location to you now."
Julia cringed when her world was turned into a virtual map and had to mutter, "These contacts are giving me a migraine."
"Don't disrespect my art. You know how long it took me to set up these contacts?" Noko scolded. "Spiritless technology might be advanced, but my tech is next level, girlie. With a bonus level and a sick animated victory scene."
Julia grunted as she managed to dislodge the bathroom vent and catch it before it could hit the ground. She brought out a rope to tie it to her before she brought out her grappling hook, took the shot, got a latch, and moved. Grumbling as she carried the vent cap with her, she said, "Your associates are pretty interesting. Is your friend actually hooking up with Broker on the side?"
"Nah. But he's able to make Broker think he can only give her the best sex of her life. Long story," Noko dismissed as Julia entered the vent. She strung up the cover to take out another tube and gelled the vent cap back in place like it had never been broken off. A shoddy job, but it would do. "They were able to get you in, but they have their own jobs to do, so you'll only have me to get you out."
"Great." Julia pocketed her tools only to extract what looked like a meter. Similar to a Magic Sensor, but it looked like a mini-Compact. She held it in front of her and watched as Ether readings showed up with possibilities of what spells had been armed. "Wow, they really took a lot of precautions." She stretched out her pant-leg to pull out a cube. "Too bad it doesn't do good against Anti-Ether." And the cube was thrown.
Maybe it looked ordinary, but the second the cube gathered itself to a stop, it started to work. Seconds ticked by and then…the cube rolled over once.
"Did you use my cube?" Noko sounded excited. "Is it cool or what? Nullification Magic might work on offensive spells, but Anti-Ether dispels all. Just use it sparingly, okay? Not like getting Anti-Ether is my forte."
Julia snorted as she crept through the vent. "Says the guy who goes to back alley and illegal auctions."
"For research," Noko said in his defense. "Do you see the path?"
"Yeah." And Julia did see. Like Goggle Maps, she had a green streak showing her the way to go to her destination with added minutes and distance calculations. Dryly, she muttered, "Why did you try to make it look pretty? How much time do you have on your hands?"
"It's either I sit at home and eat ice cream because my girlfriend is a whole continent away or I make pretty tech stuff that helps you out. Pick a side."
"Right…" Julia turned down another vent shaft. "And I'm still supposed to believe this girlfriend of yours exists?"
"She does!"
"And what, she just doesn't go to this school?"
"I could always stop making you pretty tech stuff any day now," Noko threatened. "I have a lot of other people who rely on me and sing me praises after I slave away for all you people. And you're the worst of them outside of one other. He won't even let me see his girlfriend."
Julia snorted. "You'd never leave me high and dry like that."
"Sadly, you're right. I'm such a good person. Praise me."
"You're such a good person."
"More?"
"You are a god among us mortals."
"More?"
"Don't overdo it." Noko cackled as Julia threw out another cube and waited for it to set. "Should I be asking exactly what your associates are up to, or is that classified?"
"Classified." Noko did not sound the least apologetic. "But the part that isn't classified is this. The Enhancers to be tested for fight night will hopefully make a clean getaway."
Julia grunted as she turned down another vent shaft. "That's good, but you make it sound like something bad is coming with it."
"Yeah, there is some bad." You could hear Noko's grimace. "With Enhancers, they're essentially experimented Spiritless or Dims—people who might have a little more Ether than a normal Spiritless, but it would take a miracle for them to produce a spell. Once you give them that Enhancer serum to give them false powers and largely increase their Ether intake, they have a small window of opportunity to use those powers unless you want them to go into cardiac arrest or a brain aneurysm."
"And let me guess." Julia threw down another cube before moving on and following the path set for her. "These Enhancers might not make it past tonight?"
"If they're smart, they could live to see another fight, but…" Noko trailed off and started a new sentence. "My associates hope to break them out and help them get rid of the serum but stripping someone of powers—even false powers—means madness or possibly death."
A flash of sadness weakened Julia's heart. "I'm sure the Enhancers will be okay with death when they have nothing left outside of more pain and trauma." She shook her head. "I'll leave that to your associates then. I'll be going silent since I'm almost there."
"Got it. Be safe."
Julia switched off her earpiece to have it only listen. Her lips twitched underneath her mask when the virtual overlay to reality pinged with a little text message from Noko that had a cartoon turtle giving her a thumbs up. But her focus sharpened back, and she took out what looked to be a sleek device that could have been mistaken for a small remote with only one button on it. She clicked it and a gentle hum in her earpiece told her she was connected, and the device was ready for the job.
• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •
« This device is a microphone that was designed off the same microphones the hearing-impaired or those with auditory processing disorders use for group conversation and distance listening. »
• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •
Conversation alerted her.
Julia slunk into the next vent shaft to see her target where words, laughs, and purrs were exchanged. With care, she got on her belly and had to wriggle the rest of the way to not alert anyone of her position. Once she got to the vent grill, she set down the device and pushed away. A message popped up on the virtual overlay.
« Check your left breast pocket. Set the spider on an opening of the grill »
Julia did just that as the voices stirred with a woman coquettishly insisting she could simply take no more while a deep-voiced woman flirted back that she could. The device Julia pulled out looked to be nothing but a small disk no bigger than the little toys Silver used to play with, but she did not argue. She slithered forward to place the device on a crevice before she backed and away and—
Julia blinked when she saw the device unlatch as though it had spider legs and slip between the cracks. What the—?
A distinct drone crackled into Julia's earpiece. "Come now, fledgling, I have little patience for your dragging feet."
Just like that, Julia was momentarily thrust into dizziness when her reality of the vent was crashed with a visual of the room below, and she was a fly on the wall. Cozy and padded, it looked like tonight was the night for poker. But this was no regular poker game. The players were extraordinary with the servants beautiful. Unlike the others who served, these ones looked like they wanted to be here with lustful eyes, flirty smiles, and willingly offered up parts of themselves. They had even been allowed to wear clothes, albeit the clothes were still revealing to the eye. That was the point. This meeting was not a private affair. Guards were lined up in their all-black suits and armed to the brim. No one knew what tonight would cause.
So, this was what we meant when he said 'spider'. Julia appreciated the tech. Not bad.
She surveyed the players, but she could not recognize the three of them at first. The strong woman with rippling muscles and her cowboy hat was one Julia had never seen before. Decked into a white and black suit, freckles framed her nose, and she looked pleased enough to taste the local flavor. An older gentleman with unkind eyes, a full beard, and a full frown was also a player. The third player came in a smaller package. A child, it would seem, had joined the game with a clear face, but their eyes told of a different story. A Pomeranian happily sat on his lap.
Julia found a stream of data catch up with the scene to give her IDs on all the players.
The strong woman drawled as she looked somewhere in the distance, "Well now… Ain't this a sight now, huh, fellas?" Her vowels swung low, and the pronunciation relaxed in that honeyed southern accent. "A little boy came to play in the big leagues."
⌜LYKOI CITY – BASENJI (UNITED STATES OF MEIDILAND)
Name: Calamity Oakley
Age: 31
Ability: Master Weapons Specialist
Occupation: Arms Trafficker, Head of the Wild Child Gang
Likes: submissive women Dislikes: Mints (Minstrish people)
Special Note: Calamity Oakley is an old-fashioned cowgirl from the USM! With her gang at her side and some of the laws on her payroll, she's one tough woman to take down! Though, she's a bit of a skirt-chaser… ⌟
The older gentleman lifted his glass and a young man dressed in a toga stepped forward to refill his drink. The older gentleman had to agree with Calamity Oakley and lifted a bushy eyebrow. "Da. This game is for invitees and friends, not children." His accent was jilted and brusque like most accents from Giltena. He quickly thanked the servant and took a sip of his drink before waving his hand. "Please, comrade, have the child leave. This is no place for him."
⌜SAINT SOROKSBURG – CARITAS REGION (GILTENA)
Name: Oleg Mogilevich
Age: 74
Ability: Master Weapons Specialist
Occupation: Pahkan (Boss) of Chernobogskoye Bratstvo
Likes: His wife's piroshki Dislikes: N/A
Special Note: Oleg is a famous name across the world as the boss of bosses of the Giltena underworld and even other criminal syndicates internationally! He might look like just an old man, but if you get too close, one of his Silents will make sure you regret it! ⌟
"I like him." The child had spoken in a raspy voice with a feminine undercurrent, but he was a boy, nonetheless. "He looks cute while looking terrified." He added in a purr too mature for his body, but it matched his voice, "What's wrong, little boy? We won't bite."
⌜HŌSAKU – GYAKURYŪ PREFRECTURE (SELA)
Name: Miya Matsumoto (松本 宮 Matsumoto Miya)
Age: 65
Curse: Shadow Charmer
Occupation: Head of the Kakushibori Syndicate
Likes: fluffy things Dislikes: being called "Slugger", "Sport", or "Buddy"
Special Note: Miya has a rare condition that doesn't allow his body to age past 14! His identity as the head of the Kakushibori Syndicate (one of the biggest syndicates with a Zhōnguánese triad and a Josean gang interlinked) remains a secret to the public! ⌟
There's some serious power in here, Julia thought to herself. I've heard of some of them before. Calamity Oakley was brought to court and found innocent every time back in the US and its rumored she has gunrunners in Seven and Bosco. Oleg's the same. No one can touch him. Only make baseless accusations. She looked closer at a smug Miya. But he's a total mystery. I'm surprised he showed his face, but this means something big is going down and none of them fear getting caught.
"Don't worry, friends." Piercing silver eyes came up as a man into view with a warrior's ponytail and a samurai kimono, his jacket hanging from his shoulders. "This fledging is learning how to fly."
Julia had experience reigning in her surprise, but still… That's… That's Bluenote Stinger. Hatred grabbed her heart, but she clenched her hands. He nearly killed Gale. The bastard…
Bluenote turned around. No impatience on his face, but it was evident he was waiting. "Come, fledging. Make me ask again"—a fatal look splashed across such wide eyes—"and I'll make the gravity of your heart increase tenfold."
"Y-Yes, sir."
Julia's eyes went from a cold glare to gradually widened eyes while dread hurt her stomach. No…
Calcifer had entered the room as he removed his hood, eyes pettily anxious. He hurried to keep close to Bluenote as though the Gravity Warlock would keep him safe from the powerful heads who would not hesitate to murder him if he so much as looked at them funny. He clumsily bowed. "Thank you for allowing me to join today."
Calamity Oakley sardonically smirked. "Ain't you a nice little boy?" she cooed as she stroked the thigh of the servant woman in her lap. "Tell me now, sugah, just where did Blue find such a wet-behind-the-ears puppy dog like you? Why don't'cha just run along and play with the other puppies downstairs?"
Bluenote spared Cal from answering. "The fledging stays." His tone spoke of finality. "He's here to observe and learn." He tilted his head. "He'll be taking the place of Dagwood soon enough."
Oleg's eyes sparked in interest. "You are the son of Dagwood?"
Calcifer looked for Bluenote's approval. Once he had it via an inclined chin, Calcifer rolled up his sleeve to show his watch.
Oleg nodded in faint approval. "Perhaps it is best for the boy to watch if he will be taking Dagwood's role." He toasted to Cal. "Sit and learn, boy. We have much to discuss."
Bluenote took his place at the table. While Calcifer awkwardly rejected a chair that a servant rushed forward, Bluenote rumbled, "Matsumoto, I hear Baí láng will be returning to home." Silvers flickered. "I'm surprised you wouldn't want to greet such a prominent figure."
The Pomeranian growled at Bluenote and, for a split second, it looked like the dog was not entirely a normal dog.
Miya's smile tightened as though he was baring his fangs towards Bluenote. "I might be a Shadow Charmer but crossing into Immortal Yang's domain without permission would be difficult, even for me." He stroked his pooch as something akin to smugness glossed his eyes. "No need to get so catty before the game even starts. I could bring up how much of a disappointment you were in Margaret Town." He paused, reveling in the slight narrowness of Bluenote's eyes. "But I won't." He stroked the pompom. "Will I, darling?"
The Pomeranian yipped, pleased again, and licked Miya's fingers.
Julia kept her eyes locked on a shifting Calcifer. I know Cal was a Warlock, but… I didn't realize he fell so deep into this. Dash's own stepbrother. And his dad? His dad was a Warlock?
It would seem Noko answered her question as data was fed into her eyes, and a pop-up box came up. It read:
⌜Dagwood legally had his name changed to Ibrahim in XXXX, but the knowledge isn't common. A Scrubber must have made sure there were no attachments to Dagwood and Ibrahim. A false profile was built for Ibrahim, but he legally married Janice in XXXX. Calcifer and his sister were from a previous marriage, but it must have been when he was Dagwood. Stand by for more information. ⌟
The pop-up box deleted itself.
Julia was left with a whirlwind, but she kept herself grounded. If Calcifer is here and under Bluenote, then he must be aware of what happened in Margaret Town to Gale. If that's the case, then when he went to the bar with Gale… The hatred was boiling within her. That son of a bitch… And Dash had him in his home. He had an accomplice to Gale's near murder in his home. But she could not fault Dash. He always spoke highly of Calcifer. I know he thinks of Cal like his actual older brother. Dammit. Her eyes shifted to Bluenote. Either way, Bluenote tried to murder Gale. If Calcifer plans to get in the way—her eyes shredded down into a wintry fix—I can't hesitate.
A door opened, but Julia's range of vision through the spider surveillance was limited. But the players did look up and the atmosphere turned serious.
A sleek smile. "Lady and gentlemen, it's so nice to have us all gathered at one place again." A man strode into the frame with dark-brown skin, a gray and navy suit, and all the confidence in the world. "It was kind of Broker to arrange our little meeting. Have you enjoyed the matches?"
Oleg waved his glass. "Spare us such formalities, comrade. Appreciated but not necessary."
Julia's scanner went off, but she did not need the scanner. She knew who he was. That's the Black Dog Hunter… That's Zelda's dad, Lennox Lynk.
Lennox came over to grip Oleg's forearm like they were old friends. "But it's always the time to treat my partners with respect." After a mutual release, Lennox probed, "How's the home life?"
"I cannot complain," Oleg supposed. "You will have to stop by again soon. My wife is insistent you are the only one who can critique her cooking."
Lennox laughed. "I'll make the visit soon." His eyes turned to Miya, but he bent down to let the Pomeranian sniff and lick his hand. "Miya…" His eyes gleamed. "Any new takers?"
"A dozen," Miya informed as he stroked the Pomeranian's fur. "We already weeded out the ones who wouldn't make it past the first surgery. I have them preparing to leave for the first trial as we speak."
"Good. Good." Lennox patted the Pomeranian's head. "You always come through, Miya. I'll have my accountant wire the money the second your men touch my soil."
Julia's mind worked like wild wire. First surgery… Is he…? Is he talking about the Hunter surgery? A thick layer of horror took her. Shit.
Lennox moved to Calamity Oakley and kissed her cheeks. He teased her, "I see you're still chasing anything with breasts."
"Like you wouldn't," Calamity Oakley retorted with a grin as she squeezed the side of the servant woman on her lap. "Not every day I get flown out to the fancy li'l Fiore." She brushed her nose against the servant woman's skin. "Might as well enjoy the tastes here."
"You didn't like the flavors I had especially tracked down for you as a welcome present in your hotel room?" Lennox inquired, frowning.
Calamity Oakley's grin broadened. "Darlin', your gifts are waiting for me right back at that hotel room for me to make 'em sing higher than a canary." The servant woman giggled when Calamity Oakley fondled her rear. "But I need an appetizer before the entrée."
Lennox mockingly bowed. "Bon appétit." He winked at the servant woman before moving away. He clapped Calcifer's shoulder, who jolted, but that made Lennox's twisted amusement skyrocket. "Thanks for bringing in Dagwood's kid, Bluenote," he appreciated. "How old are you again, son?"
"Twenty," Calcifer barely got out.
Lennox chuckled like he was told a joke. "Shame what happened to your father. Damn shame. Condolences." He loudly whispered, "Don't end up six feet under like him." He patted Calcifer's back and left him with terror imprinted on his face. He got to his spot at the gambling table and spread his arms. "Friends, I wouldn't have dragged you out from your graves if I didn't find it worth it."
STEP… STEP… STEP…
"But, well…" Lennox turned. "I figured you all wanted to meet the man himself in person while we talked business."
Julia felt her hair stand on end, and her heart pounded, yet none of this was on her own feeling and volition. What the Hell is this atmosphere?
STEP… STEP… STEP…
"So, for your patience, thank you." Lennox's smile widened. "And allow me to introduce the actual Lynk brother you wanted to meet. My brother…"
STEP… STEP…
Julia's eyes widened.
A man well over six foot had stepped in with the aura of a grim reaper and cutting gray eyes that spoke of an endless darkness that drove you into killing yourself to see the light and that was all you could see due to him having on a half gas mask-respirator covering a good portion of his face. His black overcoat had a golden insignia of the alleged three-headed dog that guarded the gates of the Hell. Dreadlocks scraped back in a low ponytail down his back, the locks had veins of silver running through them almost as if the veins were coursing with energy.
"…Ganon Lynk…the Cerberus Hunter."
• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •
Fairy Adventure
• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •
Lennox came over to clap his brother's shoulder with a smile while Ganon flicked his eyes everywhere as though cataloging every detail. "You'll have to excuse him. Jail takes a toll on a man," he laughed.
Oleg nodded at Ganon. "Bratello Ganon, it is good to have you out from behind the bars." He waved a hand, and a servant came forward with a tray of shot glasses already filled. "Come. We toast to your release, dear friend."
Calamity Oakley took a shot glass with a grin. "I'll drink to that."
Miya took his own, but Bluenote abstained and ordered, "Fledging, you'll drink."
Calcifer swallowed and took a shot glass.
The servant came to offer Lennox one and he took it, but he said, "My brother won't be drinking tonight. A little hard to with his mask, but…"—he plucked the shot glass meant for Ganon—"I'll be happy to drink on his behalf." He raised his glasses. "To a successful release!"
The others cheered and doused their shouts (though Cal winced at the flavor).
Lennox set the glasses on the tray of the waiting servant before steering Ganon. "Let's get comfortable, shall we?"
Julia had to hold back as she watched Ganon take his seat and Lennox right beside him. I know I had to spy on him, but I don't see the Bureau Doctor or that person who visited him in prison. She gritted her teeth as she stared at Ganon. He gets to walk free after terrorizing Tesla for years. But Noko is right. If he can't construct a positive match on the Cerberus Hunter to his civilian persona with all his tech and I can't get close to get a blood sample or hair sample, this gets harder to prove. She listened as the conversation picked up.
Lennox led the conversation. "It looks like we still have one more person to wait for. The Doctor likes to make such a dramatic entrance."
Calamity Oakley observed Ganon. "Excited to get back into the fray, Cerberus? It's been a few years since your last hunt." She sipped her prepared beer. "Found your next prey?"
Ganon's eyes snapped onto her and you could hear him take a deep breath through his mask.
Lennox stepped in. "You'll have to mind Ganon. He's a little homesick and thought his daughter and my niece would be in Andüsa as promised, but she's a bit rebellious. Just like my own."
"How is The Rogue doing these days?" Miya asked with an undertone of sharp amusement. "It's funny how you can control your pack of dogs with Maxim as your beta…but all it takes is one little Rogue to make your pack fall apart."
Lennox's eyes flashed, but his smile was still pleasant. "She's always been a headstrong bitch. If she continues to get in the way, she'll be dealt with. That's all you need to know."
"And we take comfort in your dedication, comrade," Oleg said, "but we also want to confirm all your dogs will not yank on their leash."
Lennox sat forward. "Magic Hunters are hard to raise, my friends. The first surgery is child's play, but the second surgery is where the mice turn to men. The Hunters who make it past the third surgery without committing suicide aren't my dogs on a leash. But they know better than to stray from their master."
"What makes you so confident in that?" Calamity Oakley drawled. "Keep your dogs off a leash and they'll stray."
"On the contrary, show your dogs they have freedom, and they'll remain loyal," Lennox tallied back. "Hunters take the contracts no one else has the stomach to do. I don't care what contract they take as long as they uphold the Hunter's Creed. They can live their lives, commit mass murder—Hell, they can even start a family. But trust me when I say"—his irises swirled a silvery-white—"my dogs know that I won't hesitate to put them down…and they are well aware they can't stop me."
Calamity Oakley smirked as she tipped her beer to him. "Just as long as your keep those Hellhounds in line."
"Have you tried breeding them?" Oleg asked this question like it was the most obvious answer. "Magi breed more Magi." He lifted his rock glass to his lips. "Or can you still not breed more dogs?"
Something in Ganon's face changed as his breathing went heavier.
Lennox put a calming hand on his brother's shoulder. "No one can breed a Hunter," he reminded Oleg. "Anti-Ether might coexist with us, but for a living being to have a sole Anti-Ether Spirit is improbable."
"But not 'impossible', right?" Miya caught in with cunning in his eyes. "Don't hold out on us, Lennox, I thought we were friends here. Out of all the Hunters you raised, you haven't struck with a purebred?" He tilted his head. "You don't have a bitch who could breed you little puppies?"
SLAM!
Everyone fell silent when Ganon's hands slammed onto the table. Those grays were wild and unfocused like he was a predator who scented the delicious blood of his prey nearby. Shoulders stiff, he did not abruptly move. The entire room stilled as though waiting for what he would do next.
CREEEEEEAK…!
Lennox's eyes darted to the newcomer, and some semblance of relief colored him. "You were missing out on the fun," he jested, relaxed. "Come join us."
Is that the doctor from the Bureau? Julia hoped. The one who had Gary taken… She found her hands bracing over the holster of one of her smaller guns. The one I've been waiting for all this time…
A mild smile. "Thanks for waiting for me, everyone. As you can see, The Doctor…" An effeminate black man came into view with his lab coat, ankle-length pants, comfortable moccasins, but the most prominent feature was mesmerizing milky blue eyes. He brought a briefcase with him, thick and black, and set it down in front of the seat he would take. "…has better things to do, so he sent me here instead."
Julia clenched her jaw. No. She took her hand from her holster as the system worked hard to get a match, but nothing about the man was identifiable. What? He has no ID either?
A pop-up box came and read:
⌜Whatever or whoever that man is—he's blocking out my facial recognition and retina scanners. I'll try matching him to anyone identified on traffic cams and other security cams, but I have a strong feeling it'll be a bust⌟
Bluenote spoke up, "I came to meet with The Doctor, not with his assistant. Where is he?"
The Assistant took their time unlatching the briefcase. "The Doctor can't be expected to come to every little meeting when he oversees multiple projects and the laboratories." His voice sounded like that of a fairy's, all light with little prominence or dominance, but you never wanted to interrupt. "He apologizes for missing out on such an auspicious meeting with such esteemed guests, but, as his envoy, I come bearing his message."
The briefcase opened, but a holographic screen projected from it to show charts and graphs that were labeled in a foreign language, but everyone looked interested in what it had to say.
Oleg said, "I take it our investments have been put to good use."
The Assistant nodded. "As you know, our control Changeling subject has deteriorated and is beyond saving. However, due to the Hunter's diligence, we managed to secure a sample of the only other Changeling to exist." The projection changed to show a holographic blood sample capped in a vial and its corresponding genetic sequence. "However, this Changeling is the only evolved species of its kind. Not only can this Changeling utilize its abilities to metamorphing, but it carried magical abilities as well."
"And what makes you so sure you didn't capture another Wizard only?" Miya asked. "We've all seen this before."
The Assistant looked like he anticipated this question as the holograph changed to show two different DNA sequences and pointed out the proteins. "Because the Changeling carries the correct proteins for metamorphing, but it also has a dual sequence for magical powers. A Transformation Spell doesn't require the proteins and enzymes to change. This means the Changeling is both a Changeling and a Wizard. Previous species from the Therian Race might have been Therian-Wizard hybrids, but a Changeling to be one is almost unheard of."
The Assistant turned their smile to Lennox. "Which makes me wonder why the dogs didn't bring in the Changeling like requested?"
"Complications," Lennox dismissed. "Sometimes, it's better to take a little from your prey and let it regroup than to be greedy."
The Assistant's eyes narrowed only slightly. "I see." But he dropped it to continue on with his lecture. "As of now, we have researchers in Melandia, who…"
Julia shifted. Without The Doctor here, this might've been just another waste of time. Even with the Cerberus Hunter here, I can't do anything unless I want him to kill me on sight. There's a reason why, before the Black Dog, Cerberus is the one even Zelda warned me about.
• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •
The focus was on a hooded Zelda as they met in her apartment with her Familiar-turned-house-cat prancing along like all was normal. Zelda looked haunted as she spoke. "My uncle isn't a man—he's a monster. My father might be the unofficial leader of the Magic Hunters, and it's true, even if all the Hunters ganged up on him, he'd not only survive, but he'd kill them all. However, the Cerberus Hunter is an even bigger threat."
Zelda took a sip of wine. "Every time I saw him, he looked like a civilized man. He has this…this aura about him. My father is charismatic, sure, but his brother is like the serpent from biblical times. You couldn't help but feel compelled to tell him your problems. It's how he got people to spill their dirty secrets to him." Her eyes darkened. "But it only took me one time to see him so unhinged to know how his mask worked.
"Underneath that mask is a true gatekeeper of Hell," Zelda murmured in continuation. "Even my father is cautious of him. If it came down to it, I'm positive he would lose against his brother. Outside of heavy artillery, nothing could truly kill him. Not Magic, not a knife, not drugs—nothing. Except"—her eyes looked into the focus—"for Tesla."
• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •
Julia shifted again. Once he was released, Zelda said she'd take over with any recon. After all, it is her family. However—her eyes stormed—I still have yet to find out which Hunters stole Gary from home. I know, for sure, that Lee was involved, but tracking him down proves to be impossible. But I just know there were others. And I will hunt them down. Her body tensed, coiled.
"And that should have given you ample time to collect the Morningstar."
Julia quickly tuned back into the conversation to see Bluenote staring at Lennox. 'Morningstar'?
Lennox replied with ease, "You know as well as me that the Morningstar has unfathomable power. My dogs made a grave mistake trying to mess with its bitch." He waved a dismissive hand. "Besides, someone else has a bigger claim on it, remember? The Doctor himself said he can't touch the Morningstar." His head tipped as he eyed Bluenote. "And you can't afford to hire any of my dogs."
"I wouldn't want to waste my time on those who can only walk on the ground," Bluenote dismissed. "But it's curious The Doctor would give up such a vital asset to him. After all, the Morningstar is the last of its kind."
Oleg cut in, "Comrade, the Morningstar is now unavailable due to the publicity it amassed. With too many eyes, having the Morningstar recaptured would be an effort and men wasted. We cannot afford to go public."
"And I ain't havin' my men chase after no Diablo," Calamity Oakley inputted.
The Assistant inclined his head. "The Doctor has no current plans to reclaim the Morningstar. We failed in procuring the contract to have it breed with its chosen mate. And, as it stands, we are on thin ice with the Winter Warlock. We can't afford to go after him." His eyes flashed to Bluenote. "You deliberately took away one of the Winter Warlock's precious chess pieces, Gravity Warlock. You should know what sort of wrath we'll suffer if we take his Morningstar away from him."
Bluenote said nothing. Calcifer winced and sunk a little as though Bluenote flared his agitation through gravity.
'Morningstar'… Winter Warlock… Julia did not understand. I've never heard those names before. A public figure? This means this 'Morningstar' escaped by being in the public eye. But for Bluenote to have another Warlock for an enemy… I thought they all answered to Demons. Shouldn't they be working together?
"Has The Doctor switched to another source?" Miya questioned. "If the Morningstar can't be used to produce results, then what's strong enough? I think we can all agree a natural-born Devil's power is unmatched."
A Devil… And a natural-born one… Julia felt sick. So…the Morningstar… That's actually…Gary? Nausea hurt her stomach. They were going to breed him like he was just some animal?
The projection showed more charts and data as the Assistant informed, "The Doctor currently has a new subject in mind as a new source. The current experiment has exceeded expectations. The power of the Morningstar can't be replicated, but this experiment has been modified in order to succeed in passing full genetic make-up and power through breeding." He clasped his hands. "However, The Doctor doesn't plan to immediately breed this current experiment. Recent studies conclude to let the experiment reach adulthood and to choose its mate."
This surprised all while Cal looked a little sick.
"You do not want the women we offer?" Oleg asked as he stroked his beard, almost like he was offended. "We have been preparing them for this purpose."
"And The Doctor thanks you for your offerings," the Assistant assured. "The women you're raising will still come to the laboratory, but the experiment will have a choice in which women it chooses to mate."
"You're hoping it binds them," Bluenote concluded.
The Assistant tilted his head. "Yes," he affirmed. "The Doctor received conclusive results from the Hunters' failed attempt in recapturing the Morningstar and its mate. A mated experiment will prove to be easier to manipulate."
"You plan to get it to obey by dangling its mate in front of it," Miya realized. "It's not like that isn't unfounded knowledge. When someone has something to protect, they'll do whatever is necessary to protect it. But do you think you can convince it to mate with multiple partners? The Morningstar took only one mate."
"And ain't she a sight for sore eyes," Calamity Oakley purred. "Fresh and young. The Morningstar has some fine taste."
The Assistant answered Miya's question. "A harem of mates isn't unheard of for the breed we've selected for the experiment, but The Doctor has requested we start with one mate. It's proven through the Lycan Race that once one mate dies, they can take another. We hope it doesn't come to such extremes. The Doctor is optimistic." He shut the briefcase. "That was the message The Doctor wanted me to pass on."
Oleg finished his glass and held it out for a servant to pour more. "Do not leave so fast, little friend. Stay. Sit. Drink with us." He gestured to the seat that would have been The Doctor's had he had made his arrival. "We will be playing a game and discussing further business. I am sure The Doctor would want to know about it."
"All right." The Assistant placed the briefcase on the floor and took a seat, declining any alcohol. "Who's dealing?"
"I will." Calamity Oakley snapped her fingers, and a servant was swift to provide a broken-in deck of cards. Calamity Oakley shuffled the cards in her hands as she smirked. "Which one of you pussies wants a real lady to show you have its done?"
A pop-up came in front of Julia's eyes, and her vision was solely back into the shaft. The pop-up read:
⌜You have 30 minutes to get out. I mapped out your route. Once my associates finish, Hell will break loose. The sooner you leave, the better. Leave the spider behind. ⌟
As quickly as she could, Julia reclaimed the microphone and put it into one of her utility pockets. A new destination was routed for her through the vents, but she could see why it was not ideal to break in this way since it would expose her into an alley that was unreliable if people were there or not. Still, she took the journey with her mind in a rush.
They were planning to use Gary like a dog and have him breed. The thought disgusted Julia to the point she gagged as she made sure to disarm the traps set with her cubes. I watched the trial, but I never heard anything like that be brought up. But it makes sense. Gary—well, Skade—is technically the last living natural-born Devil on Earth Land. With him under the Ministry of Magical Creature's protection by law, if anyone were to do anything to them… It's not like they can't, but to have the Magic Council tighten the noose everywhere brings too many problems.
But it's a double-edged sword, Julia realized. The Council might be protecting him, but it's no secret that the Magic Council is corrupt in multiple countries. If Gary were to travel to a country where the Council is corrupt, there's no telling if he would come home. Thankfully, Nashi has her image to protect her. No one wants to deal with Uncle Natsu and Aunt Lucy, let alone all of Fairy Tail. But still…
The vivid winter of Margaret Town chilled her once more.
I hate to admit it, but I know Gary would willingly surrender if Nashi was used as bait. He'd do it for anyone, but for her… Sympathy fled through Julia. Dammit. This is more complex. Tonight makes it sound like multiple parties are at large. The Doctor might not be focusing on Gary for now, but that could change. But who is that 'Winter Warlock'? Not a name I recognize. At least, Gary's never said anything to me about that name. Once I'm out, I'll have to see if Noko can do anything about the name and if I can rewatch the conversation. Maybe see if Gale knows.
Julia managed to get through the vent shaft with little to no problem. Though, her escape was nothing like the movies portrayed. Warehouse ventilation had industrial exhaust fans, extractors, and caps she had to break down to get anywhere. She ended up dropping down into an abandoned utility closet, but she was in luck. Jimmying the sole window would have been easy if it were not for the perimeter guards. With care did she open the window and get out without making a sound.
Using a grappling hook was too big of a risk. The sound of her hook latching onto something would prove troublesome. Instead, while the guards had their backs turned, she dropped down and clung to the wall as she made a hasty escape down the alley. She hung back in the shadows, however, as a guard passed by, but when the coast was clear, she slipped out. Every time a guard was close by, a waited-out escape was better than knocking over anyone who breathed. One guard down in such a heavily secure place with big names to protect would warrant a thorough shakedown of the area.
It took Julia several minutes to get out to the perimeter, but she could not relax just yet. She tapped her earpiece, so the receiver was back on. "Noko?"
"Your motorcycle is headed your way." You could hear the boyish grin on his face. "Did I mention I love driving shit remotely? And how you should praise me for making your bike be the silent but deadly type?"
Julia snorted as she kept pace and asked both sarcastically and out of curiosity, "How old are you?"
"Young enough to not be your father, but old enough to be your fun and young uncle. Maybe your older brother."
"I don't want to know," Julia muttered. "Everything that we saw and heard, you have it downloaded, right? Can you make it available to me later? I feel like I'm missing species. Starting with the Winter Warlock."
"Sure," Noko chirped. "I'll convert the files, match audio to video, and send it over to you. Shouldn't take me more than fifteen if you need it right away, but my associates are going to need my help soon. I tipped off the Guard and a nearby hospital about incoming patients, but they're having some trouble." His tone dropped. "Looks like one of the Enhancers was a pretty weak kid to begin with. He's pretty close to having a brain aneurysm, and he has Telekinesis, so I'll need to prepare room for him at a local Wizard Asylum. It's a gamble, but we have to take him there before he causes an earthquake if he dies."
Julia's brow furrowed as her heart went out to the child. "I couldn't have helped?"
"Sorry but no. This sort of mission was more their speed."
"But I'm a Hunter—"
"Don't worry. Those two can handle themselves even with Anti-Ether with my help. Just worry about meeting up with Pauline."
Julia sighed. "Please stop naming the tech. Your girlfriend might get jealous."
"Joke's on you. She thinks it's cute. I'm winning in the end. Ha-ha!"
"Why do I even bother?" Julia turned down a more exposed pathway as her distance to her incoming motorcycle was closed when—
LUB-DUB!
Julia jerked back—
THUCK!
Blues narrowed on the arrow that would have pierced her cheek had she not sensed it in time. The arrow had plunged into the metal of the building wall almost like a bullseye, but that was not the interesting part about the arrow. The arrow had a baggie attached with a burner Compact inside. Rather than take the baggie, her head swiveled, and her eyes traveled to where the arrow could have originated from.
On top of a building, a lone figure stood with their crossbow at the ready. They looked lithe, delicate, with their pony-tailed hair swaying in the wind. But it was hard to make out any distinguishable features.
And they just stood there.
PRRRRRRRRRT.
Julia stripped her gaze from the figure to see the burner Compact screen lit up with an unknown number calling. She ripped the baggie from the arrow and coveted the Compact. Without wasting another second, she answered the call and did not breathe a word of hello.
A heavy chuckle. "Letting me do all the talking this time, Little Nightingale?"
"What do you want, Maxim?" Julia kept her tone cool and composed.
Maxim laughed even more before it faded away. "You're playing a dangerous game, Little Nightingale," he warned lowly. "The Doctor might not want your brother at the moment, but it doesn't mean others don't. A Devil has more power than you could imagine, and other forces would do whatever it took to get their hands on him."
"It's not like you to play nice and warn me out of the goodness of your heart," Julia said bitingly. "I don't intend to join the little pack you all made. I can handle myself fine."
"I know." His voice chilled. "For a Mage to survive the madness of having their powers stripped from them to be able to handle Anti-Ether… I'm aware you can handle yourself just fine."
Julia closed her eyes when her heart clenched at the painful reminder of so much loss, grief, and chaos, but she steeled herself and looked back at the waiting figure. "Who's your new puppy? Another Hunter?"
"Drawback isn't a Hunter, but they've proven useful." Maxim switched back the topic. "Whether you like it or not, this 'pack' can protect you and your brothers. But if you continue being a loner like The Rogue, you'll see more and more consequences." He added slyly, "Starting with that little best friend of yours. What's her name?"
Horror snapped Julia at attention and righteous fury took over. "Don't you dare touch her!"
"I didn't even know she existed until your reaction, Nightingale."
Julia bit back her snarl. "What do you want from me?" She watched as Drawback took aim and fired another arrow that pierced right next to Julia's shoulder. She glared hard at the archer, but she saw that another baggie with a flash drive inside.
"Inside that drive is a program," Maxim said. "Download the program."
"And then?"
"You'll see." Maxim laughed. "I can feel your glare. Almost as cold as the winter your brother can create. Or maybe…almost as cold as the Winter Warlock."
Julia's eyes widened. "You—!" She cursed when the call was dropped. She threw it away from her just in time as the burner Compact self-destructed in a mass of electricity and smoke. She whipped her head up, but Drawback had disappeared. "Noko, do you copy?"
"Yeah, I'm here. Thought it was best to stay quiet."
"If only you were like that every time," Julia muttered as she took the other baggie and looked at the flash drive. Scanners flocked the flash drive, but no unknown traces or fingers prints could be picked up. "Are you seeing this?"
"Yeah. Want me to take a look?"
Julia debated it. "I'll do it." She pocketed the flash drive in one of her utility pockets. "Something tells me if I'm not the one looking at it, I might lose a major lead."
"You trust him?"
"I don't."
VROOM-VROOM!
Julia turned to see her motorcycle cantering towards her before it slowed to stop at her side. She mounted her motorcycle without hesitation and took control. The bike swerved around and gunned down the way it had come.
But right now…I can't risk it if he knew I was there listening in, Julia reasoned. I reacted too quickly about Tesla. Thankfully, I didn't say her name but still. If Maxim catches on that Tesla is my friend and puts the pieces together, considering who her bio-dad is, I don't know who would stop him. Her eyes glanced down to catch the shadow of a wolfish creature catching up to her motorcycle. A small grin weathered her lips. But it seems like tonight wasn't a total bust.
She revved her engine as she commanded, "Come on, Kori!" She heard a growl and felt eagerness. Time to go home.
• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •
•
Dash's Apartment
Magnolia Town
Fiore, Ishgar
1:17 AM FST
•
• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •
Dash smiled with his Compact between his ear and his shoulder as he came out of the kitchen with a plate of homemade cheesy potato puffs and collard greens mixed with bacon and dog treats cooked under his arm with Wally so happy his favorite had exited the kitchen and had time for play. "Yes, Mama, I told you I was considering Mimosa University, but come on, Mama, that school is a total party school."
He managed to set his food down on the coffee table, but as he took the Compact into his hand, he snapped his fingers for Wally to sit. He rewarded his dog with a thrown treat as he rolled his eyes. "Yes, I know, I know, that's where you and all my aunts went to get your degrees, but am I allowed to point out it's an HBCU?" He gave an eager Wally another treat. "No, I'm not saying that I'm worried about bullying—"
Dash gave a long sigh and decided to help himself to a cheesy potato puff as Misses Ross went on a lecture. He waited until she was out of breath to hurry in his reply. "All right, I'll go on the website and look at tours, but—" He shook his head in amusement hearing how excited she worked herself. His eyebrows raised when Wally started to whine for another treat, but the moment Wally quieted, he got his wish.
"Why are you calling me about colleges when you and Mister Ross should be honeymooning or whatever?" Dash complained. He frowned over his reply. "You don't have to worry about me, Mama, I'm fine." He cringed at her next question. "Yeah, Jet's fine." He chuckled without humor. "And I'm sure wherever my mother is, she's fine too."
He helped himself to some greens while Misses Ross spoke only to quickly swallow and cut in, "No, no, I don't need any money, really. I do all right for myself being a Fairy Tail Mage, I swear." He went for another bite only for his face to go flat. "Yeah, I'm not expecting anything from Jet."
Wally hopped up onto the couch, tail whacking Dash in the face, but before Dash could scold him, Wally plopped down in a lazy ball and closed his eyes.
Dash pulled the Com away to mutter, "You asshole." But he gave Wally some affectionate scratches on his side. Back to the call. "Mama. Mama. I love you, but I promise I know what I'm doing." He sighed. "Yes, I'm eating the greens you gave me." A pause. "No, Tesla isn't over." He barked such a laugh that Wally jolted before going back to bed. "Mama, she has a boyfriend."
He got in another two cheesy potato puffs before he told her through his mouthfuls. "Yeah, I promise I'll be over on Sunday for the pilgrimage with Cane. M'kay." He swallowed his mouthfuls. "Yeah, I love you too. Night." The call disconnected. A sigh drew out. "She really does worry about me." He went into his messages when he saw the message from his father that had been sitting with no reply.
« Will you please come over for dinner tomorrow? I'd really like you to meet someone »
Dash's eyes darkened as he closed out of his messages. Yeah. Another girlfriend you've fallen in love with. He set aside his Compact in exchange for his remote and turned on the LV to channel surf. Almost every holiday, he gets like this. "Another new mother," he muttered. He kept going through channel to channel—
"—whom were recently found in Blühenhaven as of last night." An older host was reporting this new segment on their late-night talk show to their younger co-host. "Looks like those kids will be safely taken in a group home to processed, but I can't believe fifteen children were kidnapped, Trevor."
That caught Dash's interest. Fifteen kids?
Trevor gave a sage nod along. "Well, it's not like Blühenhaven is a model town to begin with, Oliver. The entire city is filled with crime and any time a Legal Guild tries to establish there, they get driven out within the week." He straightened his papers. "But thank goodness those kids got into a safe group home. The Guard speculates those children on the docks were to be taken across the lake and enter Seven."
VRRT-VRRRRRRT.
Dash reached for his Compact as he listened to the story. Blühenhaven is a train wreck of a city. Cane and I hated dealing there. A ton of bad shit, and those Guards are on someone else's payroll. He sniffed, disgusted, and looked down at this screen.
⌜MESSAGES
Cal
Do you have time to talk? ⌟
"But it begs the question who saved these children from their fate?" Trevor spoke. "The security guard who found the children said he wasn't the one to save the children, only found them wandering around. And until the children have been evaluated and processed, it looks like we'll be getting no comment from them." He laughed to himself. "Maybe we have some hero vigilante out there sweeping up the streets like in those comics you used to read."
Oliver huffed a chortle. "A regular Mister Marvel or Amazing Lady."
Dash was about to respond to Calcifer when he heard a knock on his door. Who the Hell…? His eyes shot to Wally who perked, and he sharply whistled as he got up. "No. Stay there." He rubbed Wally's muzzle and smiled when the shepherd dog playfully teethed on his hand. The knocking came with a force. "I'm coming!" he hollered. He looked out his peephole only for surprise to hit him. Quick to unlock his door, it swung open, and Julia stood on the other side with tired eyes, slip-on sheepskin boots, and a hoodie. Kori was at her side, proper and poised.
"Hey." Julia yawned. "Sorry I didn't text first."
"No, that's fine." He stood aside for her to come in, and Kori hurried inside as well. "What's up?" He closed the door, but in a moment later, he sped to catch a staggering Julia. "Are you okay?"
Julia hummed. "Yeah. It was just a long night tonight." She leaned against him as her eyes fluttered close for a moment. "The party I went to was just…a lot."
"Well, dude, next time, I'll come with you and tire you out in a different way," Dash teased. "Here, come on." With ease, he picked her up into his arms and sped from the door to his bedroom in a second flat.
Julia chuckled as he set her down in the bed. "What I would give to have your super speed." She laid an arm over her eyes, and a deep sigh relaxed her shoulders.
"That bad of a night, huh?" Dash guessed as he took off her boots and laid them next to the bed.
"You could say that," Julia supposed. "Now, I'm stuck with impossible choices."
Dash grinned. "To quote Cane, you can't go wrong with sixty-nine-ing. Everyone wins." Both of them laughed. "Seriously, though. Anything I can do to help?" He took that back as he got off the bed. "Actually, give me a second. Let me get my food."
"Sure." Julia moved her arm away as she stared at the ceiling. Speaking about people like animals… Maxim… That flash drive… She softly swore. It was my fault to get involved with Maxim in the first place. If I hadn't begged him to let me take part in the surgeries and to have my Magic stripped from me, he probably would have no idea who I was. I was naïve and stupid, but… Her hand grabbed her wrist. I was desperate to be able to fight the battles Gary can't.
A self-deprecating smile marred her features. If Gary ever found out the real reason I don't practice Magic, I can already hear him lecturing me. It's not like I could tell Tesla the truth. If she found out I gave up my powers to become a Hunter…
Teary steel-grays filled with anguish.
A pang hit Julia's chest. She might not trust me now, but… I'll protect her. And Gary. Magic can't do anything against Hunters. The pain was back from her childhood days of seeing a listless Gary hide in his room. The days they would be home alone, and she could hear his quiet sniffles when he thought she was downstairs. Magic can't take down the people who hurt him.
"Or maybe…almost as cold as the Winter Warlock."
I don't know who this Winter Warlock is. However… Her eyes turned to ice. Even if he took Gary away from The Doctor, it means he was the second person to hold him captive and treat him like an animal.
WOOF!
Dash came in with a sigh as Kori trotted past with Wally eagerly giving chase. "I guess the dogs are with us tonight." He snapped his fingers when he saw Kori's hackles raise over how close Wally was sniffing her hindquarters. "Wally, knock it off."
Wally backed down with a small whine.
Julia propped herself up a little to smile when she saw Kori huff and settle down. Wally crawled forward and ended up brushing against her fur as he balled himself up. Kori sighed, but she decided he could stay. "Wally has been around other female dogs, right?"
"Plenty. He just likes Kori." Dash set down his foot on a nightstand and some water before he got into bed. "I feel so bad for Kori. He can get a little excited, but he's pretty polite with other dogs and knows his place."
"Well, Kori is something special." Julia could feel Kori's haughtiness. Her eyes fleeted over to the food. "Puffs and greens?"
"Blame my mama. Every time we see each other, she always gives me greens or something to take home since she thinks I can't fend for myself," Dash sighed. "She's already nudging me into doing a college tour at MU. Not like my community college isn't great or anything, but MU is a good school." He rustled his hair as he blew out a breath. "Sorry. What's going on with you?"
Julia shook her head as she turned on her side to face him. "Just the fun difficult choices in life."
"Like…?"
"It's complicated," Julia tried to stall.
"Then, explain it to me like I'm five years old," Dash proposed.
Julia cracked a smile. "I'll try." She laid her head down on a pillow. "If someone you loved was being threatened by a big bad supervillain, and some other villain said you could save the one you love if you joined the villain, what would you do?"
"Find a different way," Dash decided. "Joining the villain would just turn me into a villain."
Julia had to agree, but… "But what if the villain could provide you with everything you need to go against the Big Bad? The most villainous of villains? The villain who offered to help you could make sure you have everything you need to face the Big Bad and protect your loved one from getting hurt? Then what?"
He had to think about that one. "Is there no other way to protect them?"
"What's an alternative then?"
Dash gave her that. "I guess… If it came down to it—if someone had threatened Iris…" He shrugged. "Honestly? I'd do anything for her."
"Even if it meant siding with a villain?"
"I don't know about siding with the villain." Dash offered her a cheesy potato puff, and she thanked him. "Not gonna lie, I've dealt with some crazy people. I'm not saying my own record is clean, to be honest. But I've never really seen the world in black and white, hero versus villain. Sure, you have, like, the obvious villains, but heroes?" He shook his head. "To me? It's sort of bullshit. Heroes play by the law, but the law doesn't stop crime. Sometimes, it invites it."
"So, what would you do if Iris was in danger from a Big Bad and some villain offered for you to defend her?"
Dash decided to stuff in another cheesy potato puff before he could answer. "I'd play everything to my advantage. I'll see what the villain has to offer me, but I'm not siding with them. I'll get shit down to protect Iris my own way."
"Like a villain?"
"Like an anti-hero," Dash corrected. "Might not be ethical, but if the law isn't going to protect Iris, then I have to. And if that means I break some harmless laws to make sure she's safe, then I will." He snickered at Julia's expression of wonder. "Not very Fairy Tail of me, I know."
Julia snorted. "Are you kidding? Our parents' generation broke countless laws."
"True," Dash conceded. He thumbed a crumb off her lips. "Is that what's on your mind? About to step outside the law to help someone?"
Julia lowered her lashes. "Something like that."
"Just be careful, Peaches," Dash warned. "Cane and I have done some pretty stupid shit, but there was always a line in the sand we never crossed. Breaking harmless laws are easy. But crossing a line isn't something you can easily get past."
"I know," Julia sighed. "I won't do anything too dangerous."
"Good." He lightly kicked her leg. "You let me know if you need help, okay?"
"Why?" Julia shot him a teasing smile. "You'll be there in a flash?"
Dash groaned as he flopped onto the bed. "Why do you people hate me?" As Julia laughed, Dash's Compact went off, and he lurched to grab it. His brow scrunched up. "Ah, sorry, my stepbrother was wondering if I could talk to him soon." Another message. "Ah, right. The pilgrimage for his dad."
"His dad?" Julia echoed.
Dash was typing back, but he answered, "His dad passed away a while ago. Jet and Cal's mom married, but whatever Sunday fell near Heart's Day, we'd make the pilgrimage and light a candle for Cal's dad. His mom never really wanted to do it in the first place, and his sister doesn't care, so he was wondering if I'd come with him to just go to his dad's grave."
"Are you?"
"I mean on Sunday, Iris' parents invited me over for the pilgrimage, but I'll go with him to his dad's grave afterward."
Julia went quiet. Tentatively, she asked, "How much do you know about Cal's dad? Were they close?"
"Cal misses him a lot, I think," Dash supposed. "His sister and mom? Not so much. I'm not sure why, but it seemed like his mom wasn't that broken up about his dad's death. Not, like, in a relieved, psycho way, but she just…didn't care."
Julia processed his. "Maybe she was just grieving?"
"Maybe." Dash locked his Compact and set it aside. "Speaking of brothers, is Silver still alive?"
Julia laughed. "Yeah. I checked in on him, but he was pretty much asleep. He left me dinner, though." Her eyes sparkled in affection. "Maybe Ena really is a good influence on him. I mean, it's not like he didn't help our mom cook, but I'm surprised he left me dinner." She stroked her chin. "Maybe I can get behind this ship…"
"You're horrible." He observed Julia break into a yawn. "You want to sleep?"
"Is that okay?"
"No, you are only allowed in this bed if you put out," Dash deadpanned as he reached to turn off the light. "Yeah, it's fine. It's one in the morning. I could honestly use the sleep too." Room dark, he ate the last cheesy potato puff and hurried through eating his bowl of greens before belching.
Julia giggled. "Nice."
"I try to be as gentlemanly as possible around you." He grinned when she smacked his chest. Laying down, he felt Julia reach for him and place him beneath her chin. "So I'm little spoon tonight?"
"Yup. Any objections?"
"Nope."
"Good."
Both let out a needed sigh.
Julia's murmur drifted. "Thank you."
"Anytime." Dash nuzzled into her. "I'm here if you need me, Peaches."
Julia stroked a hand down his back. "I know." Her eyes closed on their own accord. But would you still be here if you knew I was a Hunter? Would anyone still be here if they knew?
In the darkness, in the quiet, in the comfort—there was no answer.
The Zhōnguánese flower hair comb had been washed, scrubbed, and dried with delicate hands to be prepped and primped for Heart's Day.
• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •
Long ago, Mulan chose
A path many would not take
But she did so, so her loved ones and innocents
would never have such a dark fate
But at least in the end, she's not always alone
She has her General Shang
And her Hellhound always in tow
•
Our final full tale until the short stories is about the queen of mean
A jealous daughter
A strait-laced Daemon
And an Angel baby daddy
But for now, this is the end
We bid you adieu
Till next time, my friends
And Happy Heart's Day weekend to you and you and you
• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •
•
Nani ni dare ni?
Shitagatte iru no?
Hontou no kimochi nante mushi shite sa
Maigo no furi shinai de
•
Ame no youna kaze no youna
Dareka no koto jama suru youna
Hito ni nante naritaku wanai kara?
Hare no youna hikari no youna
Dareka no koto teraseru youna
Hito ni naritai nante itai
Tte dareka no koe ga
•
Kikoetara nanda?
•
Nagutte kowashite sayonara DILEMMA
•
TO BE CONTINUED…
Next time
On Fairy Adventure
Episode 089
TALES OF HEART'S DAY WEEKEND
MAL
Voices of Characters in Order of Appearance
— • — • — • —
Narrator – Kelsey Grammer
Doctor Parran –
Julia Fullbuster / Huntress – Michelle Ruff
Noko – Derick Snow
Eiji "Dash" Ackermann – Leraldo Andzaldua
Cajun / Bastien – Tony Daniels
Pandemonium / "Jean" – Amber Riley
Broker – Susan Eisenberg
Bluenote Stinger – Chuck Huber
Calamity Oakley – Felicia Day
Oleg Mogilevich – Stefan Kapičić
Miya Matsumoto – Mona Marshall
Calcifer "Cal" – Benjamin McLauglin
The Assistant – Keiynan Lonsdale
Zelda Lynk / The Rogue – Gabrielle Union
Maxim – Major Attaway
T.A.D.A.S.H.I. – Greg Chun
• — • — •
Additional Voices
Opening Narrator – Mary McGlynn
Description Narrator – Mary McGlynn
Closing Narrator – Melissa Fahn
— • — • — • —
⌜OPENING SONG
⟪ Prism ⟫
ClariS & GARNiDELiA
Lyrics by
Ryosuke Shigenaga⌟
•
⌜ENDING SONG
⟪ SAYONARA DILEMMA ⟫
vivid undress
Lyrics by
vivid undress⌟
PEW…! PEW-PEW-PEW!
A classic game, this Galaxian. An oldie but a goody shoot 'em up game that had you getting on the edge of your seat the more aliens you destroyed with your pixelated blaster on your pixelated ship. The alien formations and patterns were easy to figure out, but the hissing noises for each shot and the little electronic noises for the falling aliens made you felt so nostalgic for a time you never even lived in.
And then finally—
GAME OVER
YOU WIN
A lithe man dressed in a sharp black suit and long hair parted down popped up behind his master and bowed in accordance with respect. "Sir, it would seem your program has reached completion." His Cipanguese accent was soft as it touched Minstrish phonics.
"I see…" The console was tucked away. "Thank you, T.A.D.A.S.H.I." He got up in his rumpled shorts and a t-shirt from the anniversary of one of his favorite lacrimagames and proceeded out of the room. "T.A.D.A.S.H.I., are you hiding my messages from me?"
T.A.D.A.S.H.I. followed his master at a respectable distance, though his eyes did lower as though he felt chastised. "I didn't want to disturb Sir from his relaxation. You hardly relax anymore," he reasoned.
A subtle grin. "Thanks, T.A.D.A.S.H.I., but I'm okay. What are my messages?"
Straightening up, T.A.D.A.S.H.I. reported, "Your Songbird sent you five new pictures via Messages and a voice memo. Your personal assistant submitted an email about a meeting with the board before your trip and sent you an anxious voicemail. You received a reply on your bid. And you received a message from the King."
He paused before he entered another room. "And that would be…?"
"The King relays that Cajun and Pandemonium have returned."
He entered his room. "Good. Thank you, T.A.D.A.S.H.I." The room came alive as though it understood it needed to be awake in his presence. Monitors sprung up on his highly decorate desk filled with action figures and pop figures of his favorite characters from games past to present. The monitors pulled together a welcome before each of them aligned with spreadsheets, relevant videos, and updates he needed to attend to. He sat on his chair and got to work.
T.A.D.A.S.H.I. faithfully stood behind him. "Sir, I have wired the money to the Scire Asylum to ensure the best treatment for their newest patient. Which identity would you like to be listed for his sponsorship and guardianship? I have a few recommendations."
"Thank you, but there's no need." His fingers flew about his extended keyboard. "Put down the name I normally use." He focused all his attention onto one monitor that scanned in the two separate files full of numbers. The system picked out numbers within the sequence before diverting to the next monitor over where a few satellite maps had been drawn up and coordinates were matched. He watched as the program continued its work. "This wasn't a code but coordinates." His stare dropped down to scan the numbers that had been neglected and called, "T.A.D.A.S.H.I.?"
"Yes, Sir?"
"If you were to get directions to a place—any place—what's the second thing that you'd ask?"
T.A.D.A.S.H.I. processed the question, then he answered, "The date and time of the event."
"Exactly." He drew up to his third monitor to pull up his programming software and got to work using C++ as the language. "T.A.D.A.S.H.I., I'm going to be pulling another all-nighter. Please make sure everything else runs smoothly and that I'm not disturbed. If someone needs an update, act on my behalf. I trust you."
T.A.D.A.S.H.I. bowed low. "Yes, Sir." He added, "Should I message Master Luke about your discovery on the data he sent?"
"No. Not yet."
"Understood, Sir."
"And one more thing, T.A.D.A.S.H.I…" That stare of sleek VR goggles looked at an island that belonged to no country, yet it flourished like a common metropolis. The system had circled the island in red as one of the coordinates taken from the files of numeric data given. "Schedule a trip at the Sanctuary."
• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •
TRANSLATIONS
• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •
• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •
Sevonian → Fioren-Minstrish
• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •
Alstublieft! Dood me niet! Ze dwongen me hierin!Ik ben onschuldig!
Please! Do not kill me! They forced me to do this!
• — • — •
Ik weet zeker dat ze u hebben gedwongen, Dokter dwongen u om het serum te maken om onschuldige kinderen met toekomsten voor zich in Versterkers te veranderen. Monsters.
I'm sure they did force you, Doctor Parran. They forced you to create the serum to turn innocent children with futures ahead of them into Enhancers. Monsters.
• — • — •
Ik ken uw verhaal, dokter. Gearresteerd voor illegale magische genetische experimenten op immigranten. Ontdaan van je titel voor het ontmenselijken van degenen die je denkt dat niets meer is dan labratten.
I know your story, doctor. Arrested for illegal magical genetic experimentation on immigrants. Stripped from your title for dehumanizing those you think are nothing more than lab rats.
• — • — •
En ik weet dat je nieuwe eigenaren je uit de gevangenis hebben gehaald om af te maken wat er is begonnen omdat je deel uitmaakte van de illegale laboratoria van de FBI. En ik weet zeker dat ze je geld en vrouwen gaven om je gelukkig te houden in het verminken van onschuldige levens.
And I know that your new owners broke you out of prison for you to finish what has been started because you were part of the Bureau's illegal laboratories. And I'm sure they gave you money and women to keep you happy in mutilating innocent lives
• — • — •
Ik kan rustig komen. Ik zal—!
I can come quietly! I'll—!