Chapter 3 In The Catacombs Rooms
' May I take your cape, Your Majesty? ' the cloak check girl asks as I enter the Catacomb Rooms, popular
wine bar and orgy parlour. I nod and remove my black and silver cape and hand it to her. I stare around the
odd interior of the club. It is quite a unique place. The building itself is actually carved into the side of
Mount Delta which is at the very centre of Delta City. The walls are made of solid rock and in places you
can see tiny waterfalls trickle over their craggy surface. The place is bathed in a green-blue light from the
flashing electric bulbs that are screwed into the ceiling and the haunting sound of traditional Transsexual
music floats through the air. Around the nightclub are five or six raise stages on which small groups of
scantily clad love nymphs gyrate provocatively to the music. The atmosphere is charged with sexual
tension and fun.
The cloak check girl goes to hang up my cape. ' Love nymphs are 50 Okindios for a lap dance or 100 if you
want one to pleasure you. They're private rooms upstairs if you are shy about things like that, but they're
another 50 an hour. ' she says ask if she's repeated it a million times before . ' The floorshow is at midnight
if you're planning on sticking around. ' Politely I nod and enter the club.
I push my way throw the crowds of people and the thick cigarette smoke searching for Caulos, but my
mind is really on other things. In particular whether or not Phoenix is going to make an appearance. It's
been nearly a week since we first met and I have seen her every day in class . I must admit the more time I
spend with this bewitching woman the more I like her. There is the physical attraction of course, (I haven't
slept with another person this week, I think it's a personal record ) but she is also amazingly intelligent and
a pleasure to be with. Every lunchtime we have sat and talked for hours about different backgrounds and
interests. I have learnt she developed her gift in science herself and spent much of her childhood in libraries
which has given her a wide and fascinating knowledge of not only science but art and culture. She enjoys
writing and painting , and like me loves the theatre and music. I have yet another learn however why she is
so disliked by my fellow students and why she was so unwilling to come here tonight. I do hope she shows
as I am eager to show her off to Caulos and the 'in' crowd.
Suddenly I feel a hand on my shoulder it is Caulos. ' Frankie, darling there you are. I was wondering if you
were ever going to turn up!' I greet him with a kiss. He passing me one of the two glasses of bright blue
liquid he is holding. ' Deep Sea cocktails. ' he explains sipping his. ' Tastes delicious but, boy do they go
straight to your head!' I glance around the throngs of young people all laughing and having a good time. '
Where's your friends?' I ask.
Caulos takes my arm and leads me over to a table. ' Over here. ' he says ' And you're love them, I've been
talking you up all night. Like you need it, Prince Absolute!' He sits me down and introduces me to the
couple sitting opposite. ' Frankie, I would like you to meet Zeela Waige and Terk Strandle. Zeela, Terk,
this Frankie. '
I gaze at the young man and woman across from me. They are a striking couple. Zeela, the female, is a
petite, boyish individual with pointed, sharp features and almost interrogating blue eyes. Her thick ebony
hair is styled into a fashionable bob and fastened on the left with a large silver lily. She is wearing a high
collared cat suit that makes the most of her trim almost masculine figure. She sits poised and alert on her
chair and I can tell by her open body language that she is a confidence young woman, almost cocky in fact.
Sitting close beside Zeela with his are curled round her shoulder is the imposing bulk of Terk Strandle. He
is a large, burly chap, even too strapping for my tastes, he looks like her could crush me. His head is
cleanly shaven apart from a band of bushy brunette curls that run down the centre of his scalp. His skin in
tanned to the colour of freshly brewed java and both of his tree trunk-like arms are covered with swirling
tattoos of dragons and ancient designs. His face wears an unwelcoming scowl and to be honest his whole
demeanour makes me nervous.
Zeela extend a long fingered hand adorned with rings. ' Prince Francis! May I say what a pleasure it is to
meet you. I was beginning to think Caulos was lying when he said he was friends with the Prince. ' Her
voice is high and grating and I have a feeling it will quickly get on my nerves! But not wanting to seem
rude I take her hand and kiss it. She smiles and coos. ' Such a gentleman! And so handsome too. The
pictures they print of you in the newspapers really don't do you justice!' She turns to Terk who is watching
the love nymphs provocatively dance on a nearby podium and elbows him in the ribs. ' Terk, say hello to
the Prince, it's not every day you meet royalty!' Terk studies me with chocolate coloured eyes. ' Honour to
meet you. ' her mutters finally. Zeela rolls her eyes and groans. ' You show no interest in anything, do you
Terk? You spend all your time at that gym, working to become a palace guard and when you finally get to
meet the Prince, you ignore him! I bet Prince Francis could teach you a thing or two about how to treat a
lady, couldn't you Your Majesty? '
Caulos throws me a knowing glance. ' I don't know about that Zeela, I wouldn't say you were Frank's
type. If you know what I mean!'
Zeela looks hurt and tosses back her hair. Caulos laughs. ' Zeela been having visions of being a royal
consort, haven't you deary. I did warn her you preferred males. Terk's in with more of a chance !'
I slap Caulos's arm. ' I can appreciate a woman as much as a man, Caulos and you damn well know it!' I
smile shyly, ' In fact, the past week I have been enjoying the company of a very delightful young lady from
my biology class. '
Caulos raises an eyebrow. ' Really !' he says leaning closer. ' You didn't tell me this. She must be
something to turn your head!'
I sip my drink. ' Oh she is!' I state flicking back my hair. ' Stunningly beautiful, passionate and to cap it all
highly intelligent. I've asked her along tonight !'
Zeela light her cigarette. ' Well at least she sounds like she has some class. They let some awfully rough
individuals in this University now, some are practically underlings!' she takes a puff of her cigarette.
Suddenly Zeela seems to catch a glimpse of someone over my shoulder. Her body tenses and a expression
of pure embarrassment is frozen on her face. ' Oh my Goddess !' she says through a fake smile, ' Speaking
of the undesirable element, guess what the wild cat just dragged in. it's Phoenix !'
Both Caulos and I look towards the door to see a very nervous looking Phoenix trying to push her way
through the crowd who are making indecorous remakes at her as she passes. Zeela drums her fingers on the
table. ' How did that traitor worm her way in her? ' she mutters . 'Scum!' snorts Terk. I gaze at my
companions in confusion. ' What's wrong with Phoenix? ' I ask puzzled. ' She's the girl I've been telling
you about. I invited her here!'
Caulos looks at me out of the corner of his eye. ' Frankie, don't kid around !' he laughs nervously, ' a joke
like that is in very bad taste !'
I shrug and gaze at the three panic stricken faces at the table. ' I'm not joking' I say bluntly. ' I like her, she
told me her father was involved in some scandal but it can't be that bad.'
Zeela rests her long delicate fingers on her brow. ' He doesn't know. ' she sings her voice full of dread '
Well I'm not telling the filthy tale!'
Terk shifts in his seat. ' No time for that, her she comes!' I turn to see that Phoenix has reached are table
and greet her with a warm smile. I don't care what the others think, I am going to make Phoenix feel
welcome.
' Phoenix dear, glad you could make it! You are looking gorgeous, may I say'
Phoenix looks nervous but smiles and sits beside me. I am shocked to see the others consciously shift up
the table away from her but try to ignore it. An awkward silence falls on the table. Aware of how nervous
she must feel, I slip my arm around Phoenix's shoulders. ' So, ' I say trying to sound light hearted. ' Let me
introduce you to everyone. Over here we have my best friend Caulos and this is Zeela and Terk. '
Looking almost petrified Phoenix raises her hand in a small wave. ' Hello, ' she murmurs trying to sound
happy. Her greeting is received with frosty hostility. Caulos mutters a unwilling 'hello' under his breath,
Terk goes back to watching the love nymphs and Zeela grins a false smile. I take a deep breath, it is going
to be a very long evening ! I glance at Phoenix and notice her hands are clasped firmly together to stop the
shaking.
' Would you like a drink?' I ask her hoping that it will calm her down. ' they do a very good deep sea
cocktail here. '
Zeela cocks her head and smirks grimly at Phoenix. ' Or would you prefer some Transylvanian blood? I
know it's your family's favourite drink !' she snaps sarcastically. Phoenix grimaces as she takes Zeela's
cruel words.
' I'm fine, ' she murmurs trying not to shows she's hurt.
Zeela leans on the table and smiles a pitiless smile. ' So you're the famous Phoenix Scarab, we all hear so
much about. ' she hisses, her voice a mixture of honey and venom. ' What a surprise to see you here.'
' I'm shocked you have the nerve to show your face after what your father did!' Terk adds his eyes narrow
with contempt.
I look at Phoenix, false smile firmly in place, body tense, determined not to let her feelings show and then
glance at Caulos silently pleading him to say something to stop this wicked attack. But still Zeela
continues.
' Tell me Phoenix dear,' Zeela goes on her voice heavy with fake friendliness. ' How did you manager to
wangle your way into University? Did mummy have to pay to get them to take you away from her?'
I can feel Phoenix's body quivering with tears and frustration and feel my own anger grow. ' Okay Zeela, '
I say quietly ' you've had your fun your little joke. Now leave her alone. That's a royal order.' I am
suddenly filled with this uncontrollable rage that bubbles up inside of me. I don't know why I feel that I
have to protect Phoenix, she doesn't mean any more to me than any other lover I have had. I just know
what Zeela saying is unfair.
Zeela cases me a glance. ' I'm sorry Your Majesty, ' she whispers. ' But you don't realize what this pitiful
creature is. '
Phoenix sits up straight and looks defiantly into Zeela's blue, hate filled eyes. ' I was accepted by Delta
University because of my scientific ability and nothing more. ' she states firmly. ' I do not condone for a
moment the actions of my late father but I will not be punished for them!'
Zeela's mouth forms a cruel pout. ' You know what they say, ' she spits callously ' Evil runs in the blood. '
This is more then I can take, I still cannot see what Phoenix has done wrong. ' Caulos, tell your so-called
friend to back off !' I say pulling Phoenix into my arms.
Caulos looks at look and raises his eyebrows. ' I'm sorry Frankie, but I have to side with Zeela on this one.
You should be careful about the lovers you take. '
Phoenix suddenly pushes me away and stands up. ' Your friend's right. ' she say, her brisk tone not hiding
the sadness in her voice. ' It was wrong of me to come here. It's best that I leave, goodbye. ' With that she
quickly turns and runs out of the club. I call after her but she's already gone.
Zeela give a smug self-satisfied smile. ' Well, at least she knows her place. ' she states picking up her glass.
I stare at her, ' How can you say that? ' I ask. I don't know why but seeing Phoenix upset hurts me. '
Phoenix is good, intelligent woman. You don't even know her!'
Caulos gently touches my arm, ' Frankie, we only doing what is best. You've been locked up in the palace,
you don't know her history, who her father was !'
I get to my feet, ' I don't care who her father was. I like Phoenix, she's my friend and you've offended her.
' I look into Caulos's eyes. ' I'm sorry Caulos. I know you meant no harm but your friends should think
before they speak. '
I turn and begin to head out of the Catacomb Rooms into the deep, black Transylvanian night. Away from
the phoney 'in' crowd to find Phoenix.
' Hey good looking, fancy a good time? Only 20 Okindios and I'm all yours. ' The two street corner male
love nymphs wrapped in cheep red boas heckle me. I turn my head and continue walking. For once sex is
the last thing on my mind. I wrap my cape around me to try and block out the freezing wind. I am cold and
tired and want to go home. So why am I compelled to traipse the streets of Delta City until I find Phoenix?
I left the Catacomb Rooms over two hours ago and have been searching for her ever since. Why? I barely
know her and yet I feel terrible about what happened tonight. It was me who invited her; I put her up to be
ridiculed and insulted. How can I leave her alone and distraught wandering the streets?
I turn the corner and find myself in a open, cobbled piazza, in to centre of which is a stone fountain . Beside
the fountain sitting hunched and sobbing, is the figure of Phoenix. My heart fills with relief as I see that
she's safe. I run towards he and sits by her side. ' Phoenix, thank Rai you're ok. I've been all over looking
for you!'
She turn to face me. Her mascara runs in black rivers down her cheeks and those emerald pools have been
turn bloodshot and red. ' Please,' she sniffs ' Just leave me alone. It's not right for you to be seen with
someone like, me . I don't deserve to be friends with the Prince Absolute. I'm just a fool. A stupid,
common, unworthy fool. ' Her words deteriorate into huge sobs.
Instinctively I put my arm around her heaving shoulders and try to comfort her. ' Zeela is a bitch. ' I say
gently, stroking her curls, ' Take no notice of her. I'm sure whatever your father did won't get in the way of
our friendship. '
Phoenix looks at me amazed. ' You mean they didn't tell you ' she asks.
I shake my head. ' No. I didn't want to hear it from them, they're not important. I want you to tell me. ' I
take the red, silk scarf I am wearing round my neck and dip it into the fountain. Soothingly I wipe the
black tearstains from Phoenix's face and let the cool water bring down the puffiness from around her eyes.
Ashamed, Phoenix looks down. ' No. ' she sighs sadly. ' I can't. If I did then you would hate me I couldn't
deal with that. '
I take her hands firmly in mine. ' Phoenix, ' I say resolutely, ' I'm not leaving here until you tell what is
wrong, even if we sit here all night. I promise whatever you tell me won't make me mad at you. ' It's odd,
all my life I have been the one who was cosseted and protected but in this moment in time it feels so right
for me to look after this woman. I feel this urge to wrap her up tight and hide her somewhere where no-one
can be hurtful or spiteful towards her. I drape my cloak around her shoulders and shield her from the cold
night air.
Taking a deep breathe, Phoenix begins her story ' My father was born with an illness. ' she says slowly. ' A
rare condition that drained him of all sexual desire. There is no known cure, but he attempted to live his life
the best he could. In an effort to try and adapt to normal society, he began a brief affair with my mother. ' a
sob catches in her throat. ' But one of the symptoms of his illness was that he had no control over whether
he impregnated her. She conceived me ever though they weren't soul mates. ' she pauses wracked with
emotion. ' Their affair ended shortly after I was born.'
I smile gently and squeeze her close. ' A sick father? Is that what you were keeping from me? Such things
can't be help. They're unimportant.'
Phoenix gazes at me her eyes deep pools of sadness and hurt. She places a hand to my cheek. ' You haven't
heard the worst.' She murmurs. I look at her and can tell whatever burdens her heart must be great. I rest
my hand on her knee comfortingly I want her to know that right now she can share the darkest secret with
me without feeling lonely or afraid.
' You no doubt heard of the earth mission. ' she starts quietly. ' Ten years ago, a crew of explorers were
send to the edge of our galaxy to investigate the small planet known as earth, to find if it was fit for
Transylvanian life. My father was part of that team. He never returned. '
She looks away as if preparing herself for me to be repelled. ' In their report the rest of the crew explain
that he had begun an affair with an earthling, protecting her with such a passion he was willing to risk the
lives of the others just to be with her. ' The tears beginning to fill her eyes again and her body shakes with
emotion. ' His name was put on the list of Traitors and the story was in all the papers. Everyone knew,
knew I was his daughter. They called me the spawn of Scarab, spat and hissed at me in the street. I was
just a child, but I was punished for my father's crimes. I never had friends or playmates, people didn't want
their children mixing with me, so I locked myself away with my books, where I was safe. ' The tears were
flowing freely now as she curled over hugging herself for comfort. I feel as if I have been punched, I am
full of anger, not at Phoenix but at the cruel individuals who have hurt her. No-one should be made to cry
like this ! I wrap my arms around her and pull her close. Seeming in need of the warm and relief of my
body, Phoenix buries her head against my shoulder and wails with a pain that cuts to my very soul. I can't
help but wonder if this is the first time someone has every shown Phoenix compassion. I rock her like a
child, hushing her sobs.
' All I ever wanted, ' she whispers, her face buried in my hair, ' was to be accepted. I want to be a doctor
and help people. I want people to see I'm not a bad person. But they never will, and now you hate me too.
'
I gently draw back so her face is level with mine and smile softly. Never has it felt so right to hold someone
in my arms. ' Phoenix, I don't hate you. ' I murmur ' What is there to hate? You didn't choose your father
and from what I hear you don't make allowances for his actions. The people who punish you are wrong.
You have nothing to be ashamed of. '
Phoenix has stopped weeping and places her arms around my neck. Suddenly I am no longer aware of the
world around me, I only feel relief that she has stopped crying. ' You mean, you still want me as a lover?'
she asks her finger playing through my thick locks.
I lean closer and kiss her lightly on the lips. ' Of coarse I do, and more besides. ' I smile. ' I really do think
we could become good friends. Look, I know it's hard to believe but I think we have a lot in common. I too
had to live in the shadow of my family in a way. Everywhere I went its been Prince Absolute this, or Your
Majesty that, I never felt people liked me for myself. When I met you and you said you weren't interested
in me because of my station, it was so refreshing. I'm not prepared to lose that. '
Phoenix's face brakes into a beautiful smile and my heart swells to see I have made her happy again. ' No-
one has ever asked me to be their friend before.' She whispers happily. ' It would be an honour. '
I kiss her cheek and get to my feet. ' Come on then, friend, let's go home. ' I take her hand and help her
up.
Together we stroll through the streets of Delta City as we make our way back to the University. I feel tired
but happy as tonight I have realized that I don't need fake friends like Zeela and Terk. There are few people
who will see past my title in my life and fortunately I have one by my side this moment.
' May I take your cape, Your Majesty? ' the cloak check girl asks as I enter the Catacomb Rooms, popular
wine bar and orgy parlour. I nod and remove my black and silver cape and hand it to her. I stare around the
odd interior of the club. It is quite a unique place. The building itself is actually carved into the side of
Mount Delta which is at the very centre of Delta City. The walls are made of solid rock and in places you
can see tiny waterfalls trickle over their craggy surface. The place is bathed in a green-blue light from the
flashing electric bulbs that are screwed into the ceiling and the haunting sound of traditional Transsexual
music floats through the air. Around the nightclub are five or six raise stages on which small groups of
scantily clad love nymphs gyrate provocatively to the music. The atmosphere is charged with sexual
tension and fun.
The cloak check girl goes to hang up my cape. ' Love nymphs are 50 Okindios for a lap dance or 100 if you
want one to pleasure you. They're private rooms upstairs if you are shy about things like that, but they're
another 50 an hour. ' she says ask if she's repeated it a million times before . ' The floorshow is at midnight
if you're planning on sticking around. ' Politely I nod and enter the club.
I push my way throw the crowds of people and the thick cigarette smoke searching for Caulos, but my
mind is really on other things. In particular whether or not Phoenix is going to make an appearance. It's
been nearly a week since we first met and I have seen her every day in class . I must admit the more time I
spend with this bewitching woman the more I like her. There is the physical attraction of course, (I haven't
slept with another person this week, I think it's a personal record ) but she is also amazingly intelligent and
a pleasure to be with. Every lunchtime we have sat and talked for hours about different backgrounds and
interests. I have learnt she developed her gift in science herself and spent much of her childhood in libraries
which has given her a wide and fascinating knowledge of not only science but art and culture. She enjoys
writing and painting , and like me loves the theatre and music. I have yet another learn however why she is
so disliked by my fellow students and why she was so unwilling to come here tonight. I do hope she shows
as I am eager to show her off to Caulos and the 'in' crowd.
Suddenly I feel a hand on my shoulder it is Caulos. ' Frankie, darling there you are. I was wondering if you
were ever going to turn up!' I greet him with a kiss. He passing me one of the two glasses of bright blue
liquid he is holding. ' Deep Sea cocktails. ' he explains sipping his. ' Tastes delicious but, boy do they go
straight to your head!' I glance around the throngs of young people all laughing and having a good time. '
Where's your friends?' I ask.
Caulos takes my arm and leads me over to a table. ' Over here. ' he says ' And you're love them, I've been
talking you up all night. Like you need it, Prince Absolute!' He sits me down and introduces me to the
couple sitting opposite. ' Frankie, I would like you to meet Zeela Waige and Terk Strandle. Zeela, Terk,
this Frankie. '
I gaze at the young man and woman across from me. They are a striking couple. Zeela, the female, is a
petite, boyish individual with pointed, sharp features and almost interrogating blue eyes. Her thick ebony
hair is styled into a fashionable bob and fastened on the left with a large silver lily. She is wearing a high
collared cat suit that makes the most of her trim almost masculine figure. She sits poised and alert on her
chair and I can tell by her open body language that she is a confidence young woman, almost cocky in fact.
Sitting close beside Zeela with his are curled round her shoulder is the imposing bulk of Terk Strandle. He
is a large, burly chap, even too strapping for my tastes, he looks like her could crush me. His head is
cleanly shaven apart from a band of bushy brunette curls that run down the centre of his scalp. His skin in
tanned to the colour of freshly brewed java and both of his tree trunk-like arms are covered with swirling
tattoos of dragons and ancient designs. His face wears an unwelcoming scowl and to be honest his whole
demeanour makes me nervous.
Zeela extend a long fingered hand adorned with rings. ' Prince Francis! May I say what a pleasure it is to
meet you. I was beginning to think Caulos was lying when he said he was friends with the Prince. ' Her
voice is high and grating and I have a feeling it will quickly get on my nerves! But not wanting to seem
rude I take her hand and kiss it. She smiles and coos. ' Such a gentleman! And so handsome too. The
pictures they print of you in the newspapers really don't do you justice!' She turns to Terk who is watching
the love nymphs provocatively dance on a nearby podium and elbows him in the ribs. ' Terk, say hello to
the Prince, it's not every day you meet royalty!' Terk studies me with chocolate coloured eyes. ' Honour to
meet you. ' her mutters finally. Zeela rolls her eyes and groans. ' You show no interest in anything, do you
Terk? You spend all your time at that gym, working to become a palace guard and when you finally get to
meet the Prince, you ignore him! I bet Prince Francis could teach you a thing or two about how to treat a
lady, couldn't you Your Majesty? '
Caulos throws me a knowing glance. ' I don't know about that Zeela, I wouldn't say you were Frank's
type. If you know what I mean!'
Zeela looks hurt and tosses back her hair. Caulos laughs. ' Zeela been having visions of being a royal
consort, haven't you deary. I did warn her you preferred males. Terk's in with more of a chance !'
I slap Caulos's arm. ' I can appreciate a woman as much as a man, Caulos and you damn well know it!' I
smile shyly, ' In fact, the past week I have been enjoying the company of a very delightful young lady from
my biology class. '
Caulos raises an eyebrow. ' Really !' he says leaning closer. ' You didn't tell me this. She must be
something to turn your head!'
I sip my drink. ' Oh she is!' I state flicking back my hair. ' Stunningly beautiful, passionate and to cap it all
highly intelligent. I've asked her along tonight !'
Zeela light her cigarette. ' Well at least she sounds like she has some class. They let some awfully rough
individuals in this University now, some are practically underlings!' she takes a puff of her cigarette.
Suddenly Zeela seems to catch a glimpse of someone over my shoulder. Her body tenses and a expression
of pure embarrassment is frozen on her face. ' Oh my Goddess !' she says through a fake smile, ' Speaking
of the undesirable element, guess what the wild cat just dragged in. it's Phoenix !'
Both Caulos and I look towards the door to see a very nervous looking Phoenix trying to push her way
through the crowd who are making indecorous remakes at her as she passes. Zeela drums her fingers on the
table. ' How did that traitor worm her way in her? ' she mutters . 'Scum!' snorts Terk. I gaze at my
companions in confusion. ' What's wrong with Phoenix? ' I ask puzzled. ' She's the girl I've been telling
you about. I invited her here!'
Caulos looks at me out of the corner of his eye. ' Frankie, don't kid around !' he laughs nervously, ' a joke
like that is in very bad taste !'
I shrug and gaze at the three panic stricken faces at the table. ' I'm not joking' I say bluntly. ' I like her, she
told me her father was involved in some scandal but it can't be that bad.'
Zeela rests her long delicate fingers on her brow. ' He doesn't know. ' she sings her voice full of dread '
Well I'm not telling the filthy tale!'
Terk shifts in his seat. ' No time for that, her she comes!' I turn to see that Phoenix has reached are table
and greet her with a warm smile. I don't care what the others think, I am going to make Phoenix feel
welcome.
' Phoenix dear, glad you could make it! You are looking gorgeous, may I say'
Phoenix looks nervous but smiles and sits beside me. I am shocked to see the others consciously shift up
the table away from her but try to ignore it. An awkward silence falls on the table. Aware of how nervous
she must feel, I slip my arm around Phoenix's shoulders. ' So, ' I say trying to sound light hearted. ' Let me
introduce you to everyone. Over here we have my best friend Caulos and this is Zeela and Terk. '
Looking almost petrified Phoenix raises her hand in a small wave. ' Hello, ' she murmurs trying to sound
happy. Her greeting is received with frosty hostility. Caulos mutters a unwilling 'hello' under his breath,
Terk goes back to watching the love nymphs and Zeela grins a false smile. I take a deep breath, it is going
to be a very long evening ! I glance at Phoenix and notice her hands are clasped firmly together to stop the
shaking.
' Would you like a drink?' I ask her hoping that it will calm her down. ' they do a very good deep sea
cocktail here. '
Zeela cocks her head and smirks grimly at Phoenix. ' Or would you prefer some Transylvanian blood? I
know it's your family's favourite drink !' she snaps sarcastically. Phoenix grimaces as she takes Zeela's
cruel words.
' I'm fine, ' she murmurs trying not to shows she's hurt.
Zeela leans on the table and smiles a pitiless smile. ' So you're the famous Phoenix Scarab, we all hear so
much about. ' she hisses, her voice a mixture of honey and venom. ' What a surprise to see you here.'
' I'm shocked you have the nerve to show your face after what your father did!' Terk adds his eyes narrow
with contempt.
I look at Phoenix, false smile firmly in place, body tense, determined not to let her feelings show and then
glance at Caulos silently pleading him to say something to stop this wicked attack. But still Zeela
continues.
' Tell me Phoenix dear,' Zeela goes on her voice heavy with fake friendliness. ' How did you manager to
wangle your way into University? Did mummy have to pay to get them to take you away from her?'
I can feel Phoenix's body quivering with tears and frustration and feel my own anger grow. ' Okay Zeela, '
I say quietly ' you've had your fun your little joke. Now leave her alone. That's a royal order.' I am
suddenly filled with this uncontrollable rage that bubbles up inside of me. I don't know why I feel that I
have to protect Phoenix, she doesn't mean any more to me than any other lover I have had. I just know
what Zeela saying is unfair.
Zeela cases me a glance. ' I'm sorry Your Majesty, ' she whispers. ' But you don't realize what this pitiful
creature is. '
Phoenix sits up straight and looks defiantly into Zeela's blue, hate filled eyes. ' I was accepted by Delta
University because of my scientific ability and nothing more. ' she states firmly. ' I do not condone for a
moment the actions of my late father but I will not be punished for them!'
Zeela's mouth forms a cruel pout. ' You know what they say, ' she spits callously ' Evil runs in the blood. '
This is more then I can take, I still cannot see what Phoenix has done wrong. ' Caulos, tell your so-called
friend to back off !' I say pulling Phoenix into my arms.
Caulos looks at look and raises his eyebrows. ' I'm sorry Frankie, but I have to side with Zeela on this one.
You should be careful about the lovers you take. '
Phoenix suddenly pushes me away and stands up. ' Your friend's right. ' she say, her brisk tone not hiding
the sadness in her voice. ' It was wrong of me to come here. It's best that I leave, goodbye. ' With that she
quickly turns and runs out of the club. I call after her but she's already gone.
Zeela give a smug self-satisfied smile. ' Well, at least she knows her place. ' she states picking up her glass.
I stare at her, ' How can you say that? ' I ask. I don't know why but seeing Phoenix upset hurts me. '
Phoenix is good, intelligent woman. You don't even know her!'
Caulos gently touches my arm, ' Frankie, we only doing what is best. You've been locked up in the palace,
you don't know her history, who her father was !'
I get to my feet, ' I don't care who her father was. I like Phoenix, she's my friend and you've offended her.
' I look into Caulos's eyes. ' I'm sorry Caulos. I know you meant no harm but your friends should think
before they speak. '
I turn and begin to head out of the Catacomb Rooms into the deep, black Transylvanian night. Away from
the phoney 'in' crowd to find Phoenix.
' Hey good looking, fancy a good time? Only 20 Okindios and I'm all yours. ' The two street corner male
love nymphs wrapped in cheep red boas heckle me. I turn my head and continue walking. For once sex is
the last thing on my mind. I wrap my cape around me to try and block out the freezing wind. I am cold and
tired and want to go home. So why am I compelled to traipse the streets of Delta City until I find Phoenix?
I left the Catacomb Rooms over two hours ago and have been searching for her ever since. Why? I barely
know her and yet I feel terrible about what happened tonight. It was me who invited her; I put her up to be
ridiculed and insulted. How can I leave her alone and distraught wandering the streets?
I turn the corner and find myself in a open, cobbled piazza, in to centre of which is a stone fountain . Beside
the fountain sitting hunched and sobbing, is the figure of Phoenix. My heart fills with relief as I see that
she's safe. I run towards he and sits by her side. ' Phoenix, thank Rai you're ok. I've been all over looking
for you!'
She turn to face me. Her mascara runs in black rivers down her cheeks and those emerald pools have been
turn bloodshot and red. ' Please,' she sniffs ' Just leave me alone. It's not right for you to be seen with
someone like, me . I don't deserve to be friends with the Prince Absolute. I'm just a fool. A stupid,
common, unworthy fool. ' Her words deteriorate into huge sobs.
Instinctively I put my arm around her heaving shoulders and try to comfort her. ' Zeela is a bitch. ' I say
gently, stroking her curls, ' Take no notice of her. I'm sure whatever your father did won't get in the way of
our friendship. '
Phoenix looks at me amazed. ' You mean they didn't tell you ' she asks.
I shake my head. ' No. I didn't want to hear it from them, they're not important. I want you to tell me. ' I
take the red, silk scarf I am wearing round my neck and dip it into the fountain. Soothingly I wipe the
black tearstains from Phoenix's face and let the cool water bring down the puffiness from around her eyes.
Ashamed, Phoenix looks down. ' No. ' she sighs sadly. ' I can't. If I did then you would hate me I couldn't
deal with that. '
I take her hands firmly in mine. ' Phoenix, ' I say resolutely, ' I'm not leaving here until you tell what is
wrong, even if we sit here all night. I promise whatever you tell me won't make me mad at you. ' It's odd,
all my life I have been the one who was cosseted and protected but in this moment in time it feels so right
for me to look after this woman. I feel this urge to wrap her up tight and hide her somewhere where no-one
can be hurtful or spiteful towards her. I drape my cloak around her shoulders and shield her from the cold
night air.
Taking a deep breathe, Phoenix begins her story ' My father was born with an illness. ' she says slowly. ' A
rare condition that drained him of all sexual desire. There is no known cure, but he attempted to live his life
the best he could. In an effort to try and adapt to normal society, he began a brief affair with my mother. ' a
sob catches in her throat. ' But one of the symptoms of his illness was that he had no control over whether
he impregnated her. She conceived me ever though they weren't soul mates. ' she pauses wracked with
emotion. ' Their affair ended shortly after I was born.'
I smile gently and squeeze her close. ' A sick father? Is that what you were keeping from me? Such things
can't be help. They're unimportant.'
Phoenix gazes at me her eyes deep pools of sadness and hurt. She places a hand to my cheek. ' You haven't
heard the worst.' She murmurs. I look at her and can tell whatever burdens her heart must be great. I rest
my hand on her knee comfortingly I want her to know that right now she can share the darkest secret with
me without feeling lonely or afraid.
' You no doubt heard of the earth mission. ' she starts quietly. ' Ten years ago, a crew of explorers were
send to the edge of our galaxy to investigate the small planet known as earth, to find if it was fit for
Transylvanian life. My father was part of that team. He never returned. '
She looks away as if preparing herself for me to be repelled. ' In their report the rest of the crew explain
that he had begun an affair with an earthling, protecting her with such a passion he was willing to risk the
lives of the others just to be with her. ' The tears beginning to fill her eyes again and her body shakes with
emotion. ' His name was put on the list of Traitors and the story was in all the papers. Everyone knew,
knew I was his daughter. They called me the spawn of Scarab, spat and hissed at me in the street. I was
just a child, but I was punished for my father's crimes. I never had friends or playmates, people didn't want
their children mixing with me, so I locked myself away with my books, where I was safe. ' The tears were
flowing freely now as she curled over hugging herself for comfort. I feel as if I have been punched, I am
full of anger, not at Phoenix but at the cruel individuals who have hurt her. No-one should be made to cry
like this ! I wrap my arms around her and pull her close. Seeming in need of the warm and relief of my
body, Phoenix buries her head against my shoulder and wails with a pain that cuts to my very soul. I can't
help but wonder if this is the first time someone has every shown Phoenix compassion. I rock her like a
child, hushing her sobs.
' All I ever wanted, ' she whispers, her face buried in my hair, ' was to be accepted. I want to be a doctor
and help people. I want people to see I'm not a bad person. But they never will, and now you hate me too.
'
I gently draw back so her face is level with mine and smile softly. Never has it felt so right to hold someone
in my arms. ' Phoenix, I don't hate you. ' I murmur ' What is there to hate? You didn't choose your father
and from what I hear you don't make allowances for his actions. The people who punish you are wrong.
You have nothing to be ashamed of. '
Phoenix has stopped weeping and places her arms around my neck. Suddenly I am no longer aware of the
world around me, I only feel relief that she has stopped crying. ' You mean, you still want me as a lover?'
she asks her finger playing through my thick locks.
I lean closer and kiss her lightly on the lips. ' Of coarse I do, and more besides. ' I smile. ' I really do think
we could become good friends. Look, I know it's hard to believe but I think we have a lot in common. I too
had to live in the shadow of my family in a way. Everywhere I went its been Prince Absolute this, or Your
Majesty that, I never felt people liked me for myself. When I met you and you said you weren't interested
in me because of my station, it was so refreshing. I'm not prepared to lose that. '
Phoenix's face brakes into a beautiful smile and my heart swells to see I have made her happy again. ' No-
one has ever asked me to be their friend before.' She whispers happily. ' It would be an honour. '
I kiss her cheek and get to my feet. ' Come on then, friend, let's go home. ' I take her hand and help her
up.
Together we stroll through the streets of Delta City as we make our way back to the University. I feel tired
but happy as tonight I have realized that I don't need fake friends like Zeela and Terk. There are few people
who will see past my title in my life and fortunately I have one by my side this moment.