A Guardian Angel
Chapter 128
Bad Blood
Standing in front of the hotel room bed, Lich counted the cash in his hands. As he sorted the bills into stacks, his mind wandered. Here, he knew he would be under the radar.
The hotel was one of Feuer's. It had been where he'd been directed to once he'd gotten wind of the police investigation deepening. He'd hesitated in calling him for help at first, especially since he'd been unable to keep his side of the bargain.
It seemed though, having The Flame King as an ally, was more of a benefit than he'd anticipated. That was proven to him when the police had come snooping earlier.
Just as the thought crossed his mind, the door opened. Looking over quickly at the sound he watched as Feuer himself walked in. Releasing a breath he hadn't realized he'd been holding, immediately he began collecting the piles of cash.
"This, is your cut from the last half of the North American tour. This here, is payment for the travel, documents, and the lodging.
"And for the gun?" Feuer asked still not handing the bag in his hand over.
"Right here." Lich said adding an extra two stacks of cash onto the pile. "I've also included an extra forty thousand for the inconvenience." He said motioning to the pile beside it.
After a beat, Feuer set down the document file, and the bag with the gun.
"Excellent as always doing business with you Feuer."
"Agreed. Working with you has proven to be quite lucrative for me Anderson. I'll miss the cash flow." Feuer said as he began stacking the cash into a suitcase. "Though I am disappointed that you didn't deliver Declan to me as per our deal."
At this Lich froze. The tone in his voice was much less friendly than it had been only moments before. He knew now was the time to pick and choose his words carefully.
"It was my intention to deliver him to you as planned. Declan however, met his own fate chasing his proclivities. Had I had my way, he would have been delivered to you directly."
"I gathered as much. Did you have plans to start up again once you reached Tijuana?" He asked snapping the suitcase shut.
"I'm going to lay low for several months. But yes, I have every intention of starting the business back up. I've already set several false leads to lead the authorities astray. I bought tickets and checked in for flights to Europe, Asia, and Canada. That one should be boarding as we speak." Lich said zipping his pack.
"I've reached out to my liaison in South America. They called their contact at the docks. I'm assured safe passage, and a boat will be waiting for me. Once I reach the coordinates leading to international waters, a second boat will be waiting. We'll swap cargo and the boats will head back to their ports of origin." Lich said simply.
Bidding each other farewell he watched as Feuer began making his way to the door, suitcase in hand. He never stayed long, and that was the way Lich liked it. The less interaction they had, the less the police could assume their involvement together.
He looked towards the door watching it close behind Feuer. As he did, he was met with Ignitus staring at him in shocked surprise, before the door clicked shut.
Feuer must have been planning to cross him all along. At this thought he felt immediate fury. Grabbing the gun, Lich followed after them.
o0o0o
Marceline scanned the road as she sped down it. It had been more than four hours since he'd left, and still Iggy hadn't come back yet. The clock on the dash board glowed with the time. It was after one in the morning now.
Marshall and the rest of the band had come and gone.
The contracts were signed, and the dinner was had.
Ash had even stayed late, having a private conversation with her father that lasted well over an hour before he too left.
While she was curious as to how it had gone, that curiosity paled in significance to the worry that was growing larger by the minute. She wanted to know where her husband was. He hadn't responded to any texts, or answered any calls either.
All she could think was that maybe he was right. Maybe his grandfather did have something to do with Lich's disappearance...That worried her more than she cared to admit. Because if that was the case, that he was with his papa, she was only more worried. If he'd allowed what had happened with Ember, what would he allow to happen to Ignitus?
Looking down the dark road, Marceline swallowed thickly. In this very moment she was wishing more than anything, that he would pick up the phone. Dialing again she listened as it went straight to voicemail. Sighing she looked away from the road tossing the phone into the cup holder. Glancing back up she gasped closing her eyes and slamming on the breaks, just as a deer darted out in front of her car.
The silence was utterly deafening, especially after the sound of the tires squealing. Opening her eyes Marceline watched as the deer blinked slowly at her, before walking off the road and back into the woods. She watched it for a moment before stepping on the gas. She continued on down the street, determined to find him.
o0 Four Hours Earlier 0o
"I'm never gonna get over how huge this place is." Fionna said as they walked up the steps.
Hunson had encouraged them to bring the girls, and after agreeing that they would be leaving early, they did.
Ari was holding Marshall's hand determined to climb all the stairs herself, and Melody was snuggled against Fionna's chest in the sling.
Her arm cradled their daughter, and still she could feel the warmth her little body radiated.
As much as Fionna had been looking forward to this celebration of their freedom, she already wanted to leave. She wanted to be home giving their daughter a cool bath, and laying down with her in bed. Their celebratory dinner to congratulate them could always be had another time.
Knocking on the door, waiting for Ari and Marshall, Fionna smiled as Marceline answered. She though, didn't look too happy.
"Hey, everything okay?" Fionna asked gently, noting the concern on her friend's face.
"Yeah. Just waiting on Iggy to get back. He might end up missing dinner, I'm not sure." She said stepping aside and allowing them inside.
"Where'd he go?"
"I don't know. Mo, Kate, and Ash are here though. They're in the living room." She said pointing the way.
"Auntie Marcy!" Running in Ari hugged her leg, giggling as Marceline lifted her from the ground.
"Hey my little love bug. Are you being a good girl?" Marceline asked as Ari shook her head, her blonde curls swinging.
"No." This made Marceline laugh.
"Well at least she's being honest." Marshall said with a shrug. "Your dad knows we can't stay long?" He asked, Marceline nodding.
"Yeah, we already discussed it. He knows you'll be signing and staying just for dinner. He'll do drinks with everyone else, and discuss various aspects of the contract as requested."
"Alright, so basically what happened last time?"
"Exactly." After a final peek down the driveway and seeing nothing, she closed the door behind them. Turning she led the way to the room with Ari on her hip. The trip down the hall was quick, and walking through the foyer they entered the living room.
Mo and Kate they could see were talking with Hunson, and Ash was sitting in a chair by the window. The moment Hunson spied them he spoke up.
"Ahh, now that everyone's arrived-"
"Daddy, Iggy still isn't back yet." Marceline said quickly.
"Regardless, we do have to get things going sweetheart. We can and will, fill him in when he gets back." Hunson said now handing out the documents. "Everything is as previously discussed."
Fionna accepted her bundle of papers from Hunson with a smile, and began going through them. She paused feeling Melody nuzzle against her with a whine. At this she began stroking her daughter's dark curled tresses soothing her once again.
"She doing okay?" Marshall asked, his hand resting on her back.
"For now, but I can't wait to get her home." Fionna said softly, her attention switching to Hunson as he stood.
His presence as usual demanded their attention, and as he began speaking the room grew quiet.
"Tonight we celebrate the reunion of The Scream Kings, and Nightosphere Records." Hunson said as the group clapped politely sharing grins with each other.
"These last few years have been full of trials, and difficult times. But it's during those times we learn who's truly there for us. The bonds built over these last few years, between all of you, I believe will be something that becomes unbreakable. While we don't get to choose our blood, we do get to choose our families. I'm glad we've chosen each other. To another five years!" Hunson said lifting his glass.
Everyone reached for their glasses doing the same, just as dinner was brought out.
Fionna looked around surprised as the waitstaff began descending upon the table. Dinner was started with flair, each of the servers delivering a covered plate. She watched as they lifted the lid revealing their appetizers.
Fionna was content with her salad, but was happier still that Hunson had asked his kitchen staff to make a child friendly menu for Ari tonight. She watched with a smile as Ari took a bite of the apple sticks, dipping them in the sauce cups provided. So far her favorite snack on the tray seemed to be the hot dog and spaghetti octopuses.
As they all ate, Marshall couldn't help but over hear the conversation going on between Mo, Hunson, and Kate.
"It's quite brave of you to be willing to go through with this."
"It's just a phone call. I already told Mo, I don't feel brave. Part of me worries they're going to arrest me or something." Kate said softly. "I don't mind telling them what happened, I don't have anything to hide. I just... I don't feel like I can trust them. Not how they want me to."
"Do whatever makes you feel comfortable Baby." Mo said gently rubbing the back of her neck.
At this Kate sighed in appreciation, and smiling she looked over to him.
"Thanks Shug. You'll stay with me while I talk to her right?"
"Of course I will. I already told you, I'll do everything in my power for you. So if you want me to stay, I'll stay." He said softly squeezing her hand.
Just as he did so the servers came bustling through the doors, the next course being brought fresh from the kitchens.
o0o0o
The night wore on, and once dessert was finished and Melody began fussing, Marshall and Fionna began packing up.
After saying their good byes to everyone else, Hunson walked them to the door.
"Thank you both so much for coming this evening."
"Thank you for having us." Marshall said shaking his hand, Ari in his other arm.
"And thank you for your generosity." Fionna said sincerely.
"You're both very welcome. I look forward to a future with the Scream Kings. I feel we'll do great things for each other, now and going forward." Hunson said now holding the door for them.
"I'll see you in the studio starting next month for the band meeting." He said as Marshall nodded, Fionna walking through the door with Melody who'd begun to fuss again.
"Tell Ig to give me a call when he gets in will you? It's not like him to miss something like this."
"I will Marshall, and if you hear from him let one of us know."
"Thanks, I will. And again, have a good night Hunson."
"You both as well." He said closing the door. Marshall turned from him, making his way down the stairs.
Turning Hunson watched as the rest of the guests dispersed from the dining room. They were being led to another sitting room by a muted Marceline. Seeing Ash approach, Hunson paused. He knew Ash would want to speak with him about something today.
"Thank you for inviting us into your home, and I wanted to extend my condolences for Simon. I know how important he was to your family." Ash said as Hunson nodded.
"Thank you, Your condolences are greatly appreciated in these trying times. What can I do for you Ashton?" He asked getting straight to the point. Ash he knew was not a direct individual, he often beat around the bush. This he knew would make him squirm, and to be honest, Hunson reveled in that knowledge.
"I wanted to ask if you would have the time for a private conversation this evening? I know you're a busy man, but I'd appreciate just a moment more of your time."
Hearing this Hunson nodded.
"Marceline did mention that you'd be looking to speak with me later this evening. We'll have this discussion in my office after everyone leaves. Does that work for you Ash?"
"Yes Mr. Aberdeen. Thank You."
"You're welcome." Now he motioned the younger man to come along. "Let's get back to the others." He said making his way back to the rest of the guests, Ash following.
o0o0o
"We have... two bacon double cheese burgers, a large order of fries, one side salad, a strawberry milkshake, the nacho basket, and a chocolate frappe." The waitress said placing the food down on the table in front of Lucas and Mei.
Mei, Lucas noticed, had been staring out the window lost in her thoughts. Reaching forward he took her hand.
"I never imagined myself, or anyone I know to ever be in this kind of position. So I'm sorry, but I don't know what to say or do to help." He said squeezing her hand with his.
Mei's gaze was earned by his words, however she shook her head as she spoke.
"You don't have to say anything, just being here for me is more than enough."
"Is there anything I can do for you?"
"I honestly don't know."
"Well." He said taking a breath. "Remember when you first found out Lich had legally adopted you? You freaked out because you didn't want his name or anything linking him to you?" Lucas asked watching as Mei nodded.
"Yeah, it's kind of hard to forget." She remembered that day all too well, it was after she'd requested her birth certificate. She'd been devastated when she found Lich's name on the document instead of her parents. When that happened, she didn't know. What she did know though, was that now she'd never know their names.
"Well I did some research, and I found out something interesting. But first a question for you. How would you feel about me adopting you? In name only of course." He asked, watching the confusion paint her features.
"Why would you want to do that?"
"What's it going to do to me? Nothing, but it will take Lich's name off your birth certificate." He said, Mei staring at him wide eyed.
"You'd really be willing to do that for me?"
"Of course I would. I wouldn't offer if I didn't mean it."
"I know you wouldn't. Thank you. I'll accept your offer." Mei said with a smile.
"Good I'm glad. It's not much, but it's the only thing I can offer at the moment. You know, other than a place for you to live when this is all over." He said with a shrug taking a bite of his salad.
'Yeah, if I'm not in jail for the rest of my life...'
0o0
The drive to the police station was quiet. Mei focused on being as calm as she could, but there was only so much one could relax when they were turning themselves in for murder. They walked in to the station together. She asked specifically for Tiffany once they made it to the glass. The anticipation was killing her and the wait seemed to be taking forever.
Mei paced nervously, even after they were told to sit and wait. She couldn't help herself as the nervousness built. She knew all she had to do was to say it the second Tiffany came out, that or run...She could always run...
The door opened, and looking up Mei spotted the officer staring at her expectantly.
"Hey Mei, what're you here for?" Tiffany asked staring at Mei waiting for her to speak.
"I did it." She said her voice tight.
"I'm sorry?"
"I killed Declan Cromwell at The Scream Kings world tour finale. It was me, and I'm here to turn myself in." Mei said watching as she blinked in surprise. Finally Tiffany nodded, motioning her to turn around.
"Put your hands behind your back." She said gently placing the cuffs on her wrists. "You're under arrest. You have the right to remain silent. Anything you say can and will be used against you in a court of law. You have the right to an attorney. If you do not have an attorney one will be provided for you. Do you understand the rights I just informed you of?" Tiffany asked softly as Mei nodded.
"I do."
"Come with me."
Lucas watched helplessly as Mei was taken in.
"Excuse me officer but what happens with her from here?" He asked before they could disappear back through the door. To his relief Tiffany paused with Mei.
"I've finally gotten a hold of one of the individuals from that night. I'll be interviewing them later on in the evening over the phone. From the conversations I've had with Mei in the past, I have hope that this will be enough to earn her some leniency." She said bringing Mei back.
"Me too." Lucas said softly watching the door close behind them. "Me too."
o0O0o
"Do you think she's okay?" Kate asked softly. "She's been like this all night, we can't leave without being sure she's okay."
Turning Mo looked in the direction of Kate's gaze. He could see Marceline sitting by the window stealing occasional glances out of it. She'd been that way for the last hour at least.
"Marcy, you doing okay?" Mo asked gently. Approaching her he touched her shoulder.
Marceline said nothing. She simply nodded, her eyes never leaving the window.
"He'll be okay Marcy. He always is." Mo said.
Again Marceline nodded, still though she said nothing. She was worried about Ignitus and felt more than on edge.
"Have a good night Marcy, we'll see you tomorrow. If anything happens you know you can call us right? Kate asked.
"I know, thank you. You guys have a good night and drive safe okay?" Marceline said with as much of a smile as she could muster. She watched them leave, and glanced over to where her father and Ash were. Behind them stood the large grandfather clock. She heard the click and a low ding as the clock settled on the ten o'clock hour.
Sensing her gaze Hunson's eyes met hers.
"I have a meeting with Mr. Graham. If you need me please send word." He said watching as she nodded.
"I will." As they walked down the hall, Marceline headed to her bedroom. Her phone was close to dead and needed to be charged. Doing just that she flopped on the bed and waited checking the time. It was only 10:10.
o0o0o
Ash only felt anxiety. He knew this meeting with Hunson had the chance of solving all of his problems. He just hoped the man across from him was in a giving kind of mood.
"Ashton, Marceline and I have discussed your coming to me only briefly. From our discussion earlier I know you want something. What is it?" He asked, his bluntness catching Ash off guard.
"I wanted to ask you a favor, and I know I'm in no position to ask for one either, but I still need to ask." He said watching as Hunson leaned forward, his eyebrow now raised. The sight almost made him smile. Ignitus it seemed had rubbed off on Hunson a bit more than Hunson let on. Speaking of Ignitus, where was he?
"I'm waiting."
"Ah- Sorry. I wanted to ask if you could cover my mom under the insurance here. You don't have to do anything for me. You don't even have to cover me, but is there any way you could cover her?"
"Ash-
"Please. Lich had the best doctors in their respective fields helping her, and it's the only reason she's been staying so stable. I've been trying for the last week and a half now just to get a three month refill because I know her coverage is running out. If I can't find her comparable help, she's gonna get worse again because her body is literally deteriorating. Right now you're the only person I can ask for help with this. Once she loses coverage, she loses everything, and if she loses everything she's going to die." Ash said his voice now shaking. He was waiting desperately for Hunson to say something, anything.
"Ash, I'm sorry."
o0o0o
Ignitus pulled up to the hotel, and walked to the receptionist asking for his Papa. She was quick to point him to the fifth floor, and making his way over he waited for the elevator. It arrived with a ding, and stepping in he pressed the 5 button. Leaning against the wall he sighed.
This entire situation, he felt to blame for. Because he'd found his papa alive in prison, that directly led to this moment. And if he hadn't, maybe Lich would have already been arrested or caught. Instead he'd potentially given him access to a man who'd built his life making this criminal empire, and it was his fault.
Stepping out of the elevator he headed down the hall. He passed by each room listening to the sounds of the various occupants within as he did.
Two women arguing in 505.
A very vocal couple and a loudly creaking bed in 509.
Children screaming in laughter and jumping on the bed as a kids movie blared in 513.
A loud western with a cacophony of gunshots coming from 518.
All of this though seemed to be absorbed by the looming silence as he made his way to the end of the hall. Hearing nothing coming from the final room, he turned making his way back. From what the receptionist had said, he was making his rounds, so he should be here somewhere...
Catching the sound of a familiar voice coming from just ahead of him, he paused.
The door of 520 opened, Feuer stepping out. Ignitus caught a glimpse of Lich just before the door closed and felt his heart drop. He'd been right.
o0o0o
The moment the phone rang, Kate's face paled.
He'd said something that had made her face light up as she laughed, but the moment the phone rang, it was gone. Once he was sure she was okay, Mo walked from the room and into the kitchen intent on making her a cup of tea. He wasn't quite sure what he should be doing for her in this moment. The one thing he was sure of though, was that if it were him having this call, she'd have brought him tea.
Walking in with the mug in his hands, he placed it on the table in front of her.
This earned Kate's brief smile as she reached for the mug, warming her hands with it.
Again he walked into the kitchen, and looking around found a box of brownie mix in the cabinet. Pulling everything out he whipped the ingredients together, popping it into the oven. Setting the timer he walked back into the living room, and could see as plain as day the way her body trembled.
On his way past the couch, Mo paused. Resting his hand on her shoulder, he squeezed gently.
Reaching up Kate squeezed his hand
Pausing she took a deep breath, slowly releasing it. After another breath she squeezed his hand once more before releasing it.
Rubbing her shoulder again Mo leaned down kissing the top of her head. Turning he walked down the hall grabbing a blanket from the cabinet. Shaking it open he carried it back to the living room. Sitting beside her on the couch Mo draped it across their laps before resting his arm across her shoulders. He could feel Kate snuggling closer to him settling beneath his arm. They stayed this way until the alarm went off in the kitchen.
Hearing the beep, Mo headed in donning oven mitts as he did. He pulled his chocolatey creation from the oven and rested the pan on the stove burner. Deciding to let them cool Mo headed back to the living room just in time to see Kate wiping her eyes as she burst into tears.
"No. I'm sorry, I need a minute please."
She'd barely had time to place the phone down before she was enveloped in his arms. Mo squeezed Kate tightly, rubbing her back as he listened to her soft sniffles.
"Everything's gonna be okay baby. You're doing great." He murmured kissing the crook of her neck.
"I hate that this scares me this much." Kate whispered. "That he still scares me this much."
"I know. He'll never hurt you, ever again. You don't have anything to be afraid of. Not any more." He said softly wiping her cheeks dry. "You okay?"
Kate nodded wiping her eyes. She watched as Mo stood and again walked from the room. This time he returned with a box of tissues for her. Thanking him she lifted her phone back off the table, and squaring her shoulders returned to the call.
o0o0o
Pulling into the driveway Ash sighed shutting the car off. The meeting with Hunson hadn't gone as planned. To be honest, Ash wasn't sure if it was a bad thing. Making his way to the door he found it unlocked and immediately felt wary.
The nurses usually locked up when they left.
Looking down the hall he could see movement in the kitchen and felt his stomach sour. Of all people it had to be his sister. His mom had said she'd been by dropping off groceries after dark. Maybe, just maybe that really was the case...maybe his sister had finally decided to grow a conscience and wanted to help take care of their mom.
Making his way down the hall he saw not Ashley, but a complete stranger with cotton candy blue hair loading groceries into the fridge.
"Hello?" He asked watching as they continued on.
The woman across from him began humming, and at this he realized she had probably been wearing headphones and hadn't heard him.
Turning their eyes met she gasped dropping the box in her hand as she spotted him. Quickly the headphones were pulled from her ears.
"Who are you, and what are you doing here?" She asked harshly, her vicious tone nearly making him jump.
"I can absolutely ask you the same thing." Ash said warily holding his hands up, hoping to show he meant no harm. "I live here, this is my mother's house. Julie's my mom."
At this her whole demeanor changed, and Ash watched as the woman across from him sighed in relief.
"Oh thank goodness. I wasn't sure how I was going to explain a home intruder on an incident report after hours. I'm Candice, but everyone just calls me Candi."
"You're my mom's nurse, I thought you were off the clock at ten?"
"Oh, well I was but she needed groceries so I grabbed some for her." She said keeping Ash in her sights as she continued unloading the groceries from the bag.
"I thought my sister Ashley was doing that?" At this Ash noticed her quick glance before she looked away.
"She hasn't been by once, has she?" He asked watching Candi sigh.
"Look, I'm going to be honest, and if you want to let me go, I completely understand. I've refused to allow your sister to have contact with your mother. I initially put her onto a one month ban from the premises because of the thefts-
"What thefts?" Ash asked earning her look.
"Your mother had some jewelry go missing. A necklace, her engagement ring, and her wedding band. Your father's as well. After Julie's State Benefits Card went missing I called the number to have the last several transactions read back. They were all at gas stations.
Ashley took it, took all the money, spent every cent of the food benefits... I had them cancel and reissue her a new card, and I've kept it. I grab her groceries, and pull out her bi weekly payments of money. She gives it back to me to put into the bank anyways."
"I absolutely believe she did that. My sister's always been a class act. I'm sorry you had to put up with that."
"It was no problem, honestly I really like Julie, she's a spitfire and reminds me of my mom." Candice said now turning her back to him for the first time as she continued to put things away.
This Ash assumed meant she trusted him enough to know he wasn't going to hurt her. Slowly he lowered his hands.
"I'm gonna check on Ma real quick." He said making his way down the hall.
"No problem."
After a quick check on his mom, Ash found her sleeping soundly. Returning to the kitchen Candice was condensing the bags all into one before tucking them into the pouch in the closet.
"So, am I fired?" She asked giving him a serious look.
"Not a chance, my mom loves you. If anything I should be buying you coffee or dinner for taking such good care of her."
"Well if you're offering, I'm down to hit that 24 hour breakfast spot a mile down the road." She said grabbing her purse and shouldering it. "You ready?"
"Oh, uh yeah. Yeah definitely!" He said quickly patting his pockets and feeling his wallet exactly where he'd left it.
"Great, mind if I catch a ride with you?" She asked as they walked from the house.
"Nah not at all. Do you not have a car?"
"I do but it's not working at the moment."
"How'd you get the groceries here?" He asked as they both climbed in.
"Oh I used my old grocery cart, I brought it from home." Candi said as he started the car heading towards the diner.
0o0
The diner was everything Ash expected it to be. Close to empty, very small, and infused with tantalizing smells. They walked in seating themselves, and moments later were met with an older looking waitress wearing a vivid shade of blue eyeshadow.
"I really appreciate you taking care of my mom." Ash said as their waitress walked towards the back with their orders.
"Thank you, I wish I could say it's just my job, but honestly it's more to me than that. A lot of the people I work with tend to be quite lonely. It makes me happy to brighten their days some. It's okay if I don't get the acknowledgement of all the things I do.
I know she thinks it's Ashley bringing her groceries, but what kind of person would I be to take her happiness from her? The only thing I would get by telling her it was me would be recognition. She'd end up with a broken heart after learning the truth." Candice said as she glanced out the window watching a person walk their dog by.
"I both respect and appreciate that. Thank you for everything you've done, and for what you do for my mom."
"Thank you Ash."
o0o0o
Ignitus complied as he was pulled into the room, Feuer grabbing him. He stumbled inside spotting Lich, who was now training a gun on the both of them.
"What the hell is this?" Feuer asked immediately looking affronted.
"What the hell is he doing here?" Lich asked keeping the gun on Ignitus, much to his discomfort.
"How was I supposed to know he'd come looking for us?"
'I'm in deep shit. How the hell am I getting out of this?!'
"I came looking for my grandfather." Ig said his mind drawing a blank.
'What could be this important? I need to think of something. Damn it brain WORK!'
This making the plans up on the fly stuff, he very much decided he'd leave to Marshall. Ignitus stood there speechless, his hands visible as the gun pointed back towards him.
"So you're double crossing me?" Lich snapped now glaring at the pair of them. He was looking from Feuer to FP, his gun solidly trained on the younger of the two.
"I'm not double crossing you." Feuer said slowly, his hands raised. Now he took several steps back. "This I assure you, is a simple misunderstanding. He's here for me not you." Feuer said resting his hand on his grandson's back. At this though he paused feeling the gun.
"I'm his former manager. I'm on the run. He'll sell me out-
"My grandson is no rat."
"Look, I don't care-
"Both of you shut up!" Lich snarled watching as Ignitus winced, the gun mere inches from his face. At this he smirked.
"For all of your bravado, I'd expected more of you." He hissed.
"I'm not here for you. I never was-" Ignitus said gritting his teeth as Lich stepped close pushing the muzzle of the gun into his jaw. That alone made his stomach lurch.
"I never liked you." He growled.
Ignitus could feel his Papa slowly pulling the gun from his waistband. It was then he understood what was about to happen. One of the three of them wasn't leaving this room alive, and he was the only one without a weapon.
"You all have taken everything from me-
"That DC bastard took everything from you. We didn't do-
CLICK
Ignitus gasped hearing the empty click of the gun, as Lich pulled the trigger. He was staring down the barrel of the gun at Lich who seemed more than shocked.
"Did you really think I'd give you the chance to one up me Anderson? That I'd be stupid enough?" Feuer asked drawing the gun and aiming at Lich who stood there dumbfounded.
As Ignitus stood there, the realization that the gun wasn't loaded hit him. It struck with the quick ferocity of lightning, and clenching his fist, he swung. His fist hit Lich's jaw and as the man dropped he continued his onslaught.
This was what he'd wanted from the beginning, payback. To utterly annihilate this man. To make up for every threat he made to them. To repay him for every time he broke into their houses. For every time he hurt one of the people he cared about.
For everything he did to Marshall, and Fionna, and Ari. For what happened to their baby.
For every ounce of fear Mo and Kate had been put through.
For using Ash and his mom like pawns, when her very life depended on it...
But more than anything, he wanted to pay back Lich in full for the pain his actions caused Ember.
His fury was renewed at this thought. As he cocked his arm back to swing again, it was caught by his Papa who shoved him off balance. He stumbled as his Grandfather stepped by, advancing on Lich with the gun.
"Did you think I would forget? Did you think I would just let go of what your man did to my family? What you put my blood through?" He asked his voice low and dangerous wrenching the empty gun from his grasp.
"What the hell more do you want? I paid for both in cash." Lich spat wiping the blood that dripped down his face.
"Restitution Anderson. For the pain you caused my grandchildren. For what you put my granddaughter through. That can only be paid in blood." He said still holding the gun on Lich. His gaze now landed on his grandson.
"Have at him Flame Prince, he's all yours."
This caught FP completely off guard, especially as he was passed the gun.
"Wait, what?"
"You heard me. Give him everything he's owed. Show him the consequences of crossing us, and our family."
"I don't want this." Now he offered Feuer back the gun. "I'm not gonna kill someone."
Shaking his head he took a step back. He'd always imagined what this moment would be like. How it would feel to take every ounce of anger, and aggression, out on the man before him. He'd thought about it, fantasized even, for the better part of two years.
Having the power he'd had only minutes ago had been damn near euphoric. But standing there with the gun in his hand, he only felt sick.
The look on Feuer's face changed as he scoffed. Snatching the gun from Ignitus, Feuer spared only a glance as he aimed it towards Lich.
"Feuer no, don't-
BANG
He couldn't breathe. Ignitus swallowed thickly glancing from his Papa to Lich, who now lay dead on the floor. He was trying so desperately not to look at the blood splattered on the wall.
Suddenly his grandfather's voice broke the deafening silence.
"You, are such a disappointment." Feuer said, removing the handkerchief from his breast pocket carefully wiping down the gun. Pulling out his phone once he'd finished, Feuer dialed a number and began speaking.
"I need a clean up. Yes, room 520. I have the piece." He said now turning and staring down his grandson.
"No. I'll be keeping it as leverage." He said ending the call. "I'm sure I don't have to question my last statement, on whether or not you're a rat?" Feuer asked staring at him impassively.
"You know I'm not gonna say anything."
"I know you won't. Because if you do, all of this lands square on your shoulders. I'd hate to see your pretty little wife's face if that were to happen. And to protect my empire, I have no problem letting it." Feuer said wrapping the gun and placing it in his brief case.
"To think I thought I did better with you, than with Aiden." He scoffed.
"I genuinely thought you, may be the one to take over the family business. Turns out I was wrong. You can't even handle one lowly rat. You truly are your father's son." He said in disgust now walking from the room, leaving him there.
"You're pathetic."
o0o0o
"No, thank YOU. I know this conversation must have been very difficult for you. I have all of the information I needed, thank you again Kate. If you can think of anything else that would be of any importance to this case please let me know." Tiffany said as she hung up the phone.
With a sigh she began typing up the report on her computer when a knock came to the door.
"Hey Tiff, you're going to want to head out to the quarry."
"Why? I covered my beat already and I'm 15 minutes away from home time. What on this planet do you think is gonna get me out of this office now?" She asked with a smirk turning back to her screen.
"Word is there's a John Doe, and rumor has it, it's your runner." At this Tiffany quickly turned, earning a twinge of pain from her back.
"What?!"
"No official call has been made yet, but he definitely fits the description of one Anderson Lich. Guy probably jumped once he realized how screwed he was."
"You'd better not be screwing with me right now."
"Look, you're nasty enough on a normal day Tiff. If you don't believe me head out to the quarry yourself."
"I think I will. I need to see it with my own eyes." She said grabbing her keys. walking down the hall she passed the holding cells and paused. Turning she unlocked the door entering the room.
Mei she could see was laying on the bed in her cell. Making her way over she paused in front of the door.
Mei glanced over before frowning, giving Tiffany her full attention.
"What's up?"
"I have a few things I want to ask you. Some things I want to say and some things I want you to remember. You feel me?"
"Yeah?"
"Good. First things first, remember this. Justifiable Homicide. Now my questions. Were you at any point attempting to prevent a very serious violent crime such as rape, murder, or armed robbery? The attacker's intent to commit said crime must have been clear. Crystal clear. From the conversation I just had on the phone, you were." Tiffany said watching as Mei nodded silently.
"Did you obey a duty to retreat?" She asked watching Mei's face contort in confusion.
"This isn't an actual command. It means that you initially attempted to avoid the confrontation, and only resorted to violent force when you could not escape. Did you?"
"I did."
"And there was no other way to prevent the serious violent crime from taking place? This is where most cases are argued in court, because the prosecution often tries to prove that you could have used less force to subdue your attacker or that you could have called the police."
"Had I used less force or tried to call the police there'd be more than one body that night, and neither would have been his."
"That's fair to say. I have to run out and see something, I'll be back to talk with you again tonight."
"Okay."
Turning Tiffany walked from the room, she had a body to see.
0o0
The flashing lights at the quarry were bright enough to lead Tiffany to the site of the body. She could see caution tape posted up sectioning off the area where the other officers milled around. Parking the car she made her way over and was greeted.
"Tiffany, just the person I was hoping to see. Headquarters just told me that you'd be on your way. Apparently you've been running this case?"
"Yeah, where is he? One of the guys said it was Lich?"
"Honestly it's hard to tell, but from the brief description we'd been given at the start of shift I'd say we got your guy. He'll have to be ID'd through forensics. Blunt force trauma from the fall makes visual recognition next to impossible."
"Wait, fall trauma?"
"Yeah, from the looks of things, the guy off'd himself. Took a flying leap off the quarry." He said with a shrug. Taking a sip of his coffee, the officer lifted the yellow caution tape so she could enter the scene.
"Suicide wouldn't make sense for my guy though. I don't see him killing himself. He's done this before according to my source so he'd definitely have an escape plan or a back up." Tiffany said as they approached the scene. From here she could see the awkward angle of the man's limbs, and the stain of blood from his head.
"Do you really think this was a suicide? Or do you think his luck just finally ran out?" The officer asked as Tiffany began assessing the scene. Forensics wasn't her greatest skill, it was why she was an officer instead of an investigator. She wanted to be out on the streets helping people.
There was no help for this man. Whether he was Lich, or just another John Doe who couldn't take life anymore. He was dead, far too damaged for any normal sort of visual recognition. Deep down though, she knew that this was her man.
"So do you really think he jumped? Or do you think he was pushed?"
"Beats me. The only one who'd know for sure, is locked up in central. Guess I should head there now and see if I can figure this out." She said taking one last look over her shoulder. Turning she walked back to the car. That talk with Mei was happening a lot sooner than she'd thought it would.
o0o0o
Marceline had been driving when she spotted the truck parked on the side of the road. Ignitus she could see was sitting in the open bed, looking up at the sky. Marceline was quick to pull up in front of him before racing from the car.
"Iggy there you are. What happened? Where have you been? I was worried sick. Everyone-
"Lich is dead." He said still not looking at her. "I can't tell you how I know, but I do know this for a fact." He said as Marceline pushed herself up onto the truck bed.
"What are you talking about? Are you okay?" She asked softly, almost afraid to know what had happened.
"I'm not sure if okay is the right word for how I'm feeling right now."
"What? Can you tell me what happened?"
"No. I can't."
"What're...Ig what happened to you?" Marceline asked tilting his face towards hers. She so desperately wished he would meet her eyes.
Ignoring her question he looked up to the sky. He wanted to tell her everything. He wanted nothing more than to unload this hellish nightmare from his mind, but what could he say?
"Iggy, please. What happened?"
"Lich is dead. He was killed right in front of me. That's all I can say. If I say any more I risk putting you in danger, and that's not something I want."
He sat there watching as the gears turned in her head. Finally they settled on one thought in particular.
"You were right...weren't you?" She asked watching as he continued avoiding her gaze.
"He's blackmailing you, isn't he?"
"Let it go Marceline." Ig said, his voice stern.
"He killed him didn't he? He killed him and he's threatening to pin it on yo-
Marceline gasped softly, growing quiet as Ignitus held her face in his hands.
"Please. Stop talking." His words were soft but sharp. He felt his misery deepen as she flinched. Gently he brushed her cheek with his thumb, his hand taking hers.
"I'm sorry."
"You don't need to be sorry Marcy. I am though. I don't want to see you getting hurt, because you were right. That's all I'm saying. This is the worst night of my life." He said burying his head in his hands.
The silence hung heavily between them, but finally Marceline's voice broke the silence.
"I don't know why." She said now wrapping her arms around him squeezing tightly. "You were with us all night long, nobody would dispute that."
It took a moment for the words to register. Catching on to what she was saying he only felt anguish. Even now when he could give her no answers, she was willing to put her neck on the line for him.
"I'm sorry. Marceline, I'm so damn sorry."
"So am I."
o0o0o
Fionna watched Marshall bounce Melody. He was patting her back and listening as she cried inconsolably in his ear. The trip home had been quick, the ride lulling the two girls into a light slumber.
When they'd arrived home Aria was more than willing to give in, letting sleep take her.
Fionna had carried Ari up the stairs, where she was changed, laid down, and tucked in. Giving her a kiss Fionna grabbed a diaper and pajamas for the baby and walked from the room closing the door behind her. Steeling herself she prepared for the battle ahead.
Melody she knew would not be so easily swayed.
As the hours passed, her initial assumption proved to be correct. They worked together, passing her back and forth, trying to get Melody to sleep.
"I know mamas, I know. I'm sorry beautiful, I just don't know what's wrong." Marshall said still trying to soothe her.
"Someone just needs to feel a bit better is all. I think a nice cool bath will do the trick." Fionna said lifting the wailing baby into her arms.
"Can you do me a favor and run to the store for some electrolyte juice while I give her a bath? Fionna asked watching as Marshall nodded.
"Of course."
With that Fionna turned bringing Melody into the kitchen. It had taken just a few minutes for her to get everything set up for her bath. Once she did, she set Melody inside listening as her fussing lessened. Gently she began washing her with the soapy cloth, wiping down her warm skin. She sang softly listening to Melody's tired babbles as the front door opened. Fionna could hear the familiar footsteps and the crinkle of a tissue bag as Marshall entered the kitchen.
"How's she doing?"
"We're getting there. This was just what she needed. Did you grab the juice?"
"And some more meds, I didn't know what we had and I'd rather have some on hand than not."
"Thank you. Does this one have a fever reducer in it?" Fionna asked looking at the bottle.
"Yeah, I looked for that specifically."
"Awesome, because I did use the last of what we had on her earlier before dinner. I was meaning to pick some up."
"I'm glad I got it then." Marshall said filling a bottle with the juice. Setting it aside he snagged the towel from the rack, taking Melody as Fionna passed her off.
Drying her, Marshall carried her downstairs offering her the bottle as he did. Finding the baby powder, and the diaper, Marshall dusted her with the powder, before diapering her.
After another half hour or so of their combined efforts, Melody was out for the count.
Fionna was so careful as she lay her down in the crib. She watched hesitantly as she stirred before settling back to sleep. Quietly they snuck from the room, and once they did they shared a grin.
"That was some quality team work." Marshall said giving her a grin.
"We've got the girls asleep, and the house to ourselves for a bit. That's practically unheard of." Fionna said as she led them into the kitchen.
"I know exactly what we can do." Marshall walked into the pantry, and to Fionna's amusement he returned with the canister of marshmallows, graham crackers, and a bag of chocolate chips.
"Are you trying to tempt me into kitchen smores?" She asked smirking.
Marshall speared a marshmallow onto the prong of the long metal skewer turning the burner on. Glancing up at Fionna, he grinned offering her one.
"You can't tell me you don't want one."
Fionna watched as he toasted the marshmallow, and after a moment took the skewer he'd brought for her spearing one of her own.
"I knew you couldn't resist me."
"Resist you, and your undeniable charm? Never." From the corner of her eye Fionna saw Marshall grin and couldn't help her smile.
"You're the best of the best, you know that Fi, right?"
"With you by my side how could I be anything but?" She asked leaning over and kissing his cheek.
"After this do you wanna go be lame asses and snuggle up and watch some TV?"
"I think that's a great idea."
Hope you enjoyed the chapter!
xoxoxo
H09
The next chapter will be our epilogue.