Chapter Six: The Mourning Line, and a View of the City
A four-door sedan climbed up a hill, lined with high walls and elaborate fences. Live oak trees, now bare, spread branches over Barrow Lane---one of the streets connecting Red River City's two halves.
Hiead and Zero sat in the back seat, cradling covered dishes. Garu drove, while Rio cast a longing look at the food that they were delivering to the Kuerten house. "Bloody waste of time," Garu muttered. "Up here in Rosso Heights, they can cater a wake."
"Look, I asked Mrs. Kuerten if she wanted me to bring anything. She said yes, and I see no reason to go back on my word," Zero replied.
"Your call, buddy boy," Garu said, as he slowed the car. "So, is this the place?" He pulled up to a driveway that led back to a ranch-style house. "Man, I thought this would be more posh."
"Depends on what your notion of posh is. That is all I have to say."
"It seems quite luxuriant to me," Hiead murmured, as he took in the view of the gardens leading up to the house. There was a gazebo, large enough to seat a dinner party of 20, with room to spare. Wisteria vines graced a large pavilion just beyond. He saw light glowing in a hothouse, and Japanese maples, mingled with ash and cherry trees. Who cares about the house? I'd take the garden, any day.
Once they reached the house, Garu parked the car. He and Rio got out, opening the back doors. Zero and Hiead, dishes in hand, got out while the two closed the back doors and locked up. The moon had risen, lighting Hiead's hair with pale fire. Garu rang the doorbell. A woman in her mid- 40s, with auburn hair, hazel eyes, and a black dress, opened the door. "Please come in," she said. "Thank you for coming. Just set the dishes on the dining room table."
"Thank you, Mrs. Kuerten," Zero answered. "You've met Coach Vilgyna. This is his companion, Gareas Elidd, and this is an old friend of mine, Darden Angel. He just arrived today." Eveline Kuerten shook hands with Rioroute and Garu in turn, waiting for Hiead and Zero to set the dishes on the table.
Hiead stared in disbelief at the assortment of food laid out already: glazed ham, roast beef, smoked salmon, a number of side dishes ranging from potato salad to baba ganoush, cold platters with cheese and vegetables, and a teeth-tingling array of desserts, from brownies to torrejas, all on a table that would easily seat more than 50 people. Two carts held plates, cups, and silverware; coffee, cream, a thermal pot of hot water, and iced water pitchers, with glasses nearby, covered two more carts. Black cloth veiled frames with different artwork.
He removed the coat, placing it on a bench in the foyer, and rejoined the others in the living room. Mourners clustered in different groups: teammates and classmates to the right; family members to the left; and ahead, a line of teachers and faculty approaching the dead boy's parents.
Eveline sat in a damasked armchair, her face a mixture of sorrow and anger. Guillermo Kuerten, her ex-husband, sat next to her. He received sympathies with a cool, unwavering expression. His face resembled a stone bluff: black eyes, set in a craggy face, measured the room. Hiead noted the tension between the former spouses. These two are in cease-fire mode. I doubt that will last beyond the actual funeral. If this is anything like Mickey's funeral, the fights will probably start before the first clump of dirt hits the casket.
Rio and Garu approached the couple and bowed. Rio clasped Mrs. Kuerten's hands, then shook the hand of Mr. Kuerten. Garu did the same; after a few words, the two bowed again and walked toward a sofa. After several other faculty members approached, Zero came up, bowing.
He took Mrs. Kuerten's hand, and said, "Your son was a fine young man. I can't think of much more to say. I am sorry." He then shook Mr. Kuerten's hand. "I'm sorry, Mr. Kuerten."
He then walked over to a photograph of Ryker, draped in black, with white chrysanthemums at the base. He clapped his hands, and bowed his head. The sandy-haired, grey-eyed image stared back, a dim light behind the eyes. Zero cleared his throat, and spoke: "You were such a great player, Ryker. You had the gift of goal. What happened? You could have done so much more." Tears fell; he wiped them away with the back of his hand. "You should be here."
Hiead approached the Kuertens, doing what he had seen the others do. He shook hands in silence, then approached the photograph, where Zero had lingered, still crying. He clapped his hands, lowered his head, and murmured, "Memory Eternal. May your memory be eternal."
Zero stood, mute and paralyzed with grief. Hiead put an arm around his shoulder, leading him to a quiet part of the room. Dark blue eyes gazed into space, glassy with unshed tears. He started to mumble, "Should have seen the signs, should have paid more attention, how did I miss the danger? I left him in the lurch, why, should be here, should be here---no." His voice dropped to a cracked whisper. "I failed you." He collapsed into Hiead's arms, sobbing hard.
Hiead stroked his hair, whispering, "You've done all you can do for the boy. You weren't a bad coach, you didn't leave him to his own. You didn't fail him."
"I failed you, failed you in the worst way," Zero wept. Why did you intercept that VICTIM ambush? I should have died that day. Not you, not you, it wasn't right, not at all right!
A memory surfaced in Hiead's mind: surrounded by a horde of VICTIM, he had tried to contact the other Pilots. "Zero! Yamagi! Erts! Yu! Is there anyone there? If you can hear me, let me know." He struck at his assailants, who fell away. A shock coursed down his spine. From his screen, he saw VICTIM, in a pincer formation, closing in on Zero. He reached out to the First Pilot. {Zero, the VICTIM is setting you up for an ambush. You've got to change your flight pattern, now.}
He heard Zero's thoughts. {Hiead, what's the matter? Why haven't you radioed me?}
{No time. I'm going to draw their fire away. Go after the mothership.} {They'll kill you, Hiead. I can take care of them.}
{Are you mad? Leave them to me. I'll be all right.}
{Hiead, no. You can't.}
{I will. And I want to. I'm not afraid.}
{But Hiead, what if---}
{Don't argue! Just aim for the mothership! I'll watch your back.}
Hiead changed direction, charging headlong into the oncoming ranks. He felt his EX surge, white light radiating around him, as he attacked the circling masses. In the distance, he sensed Zero's reaction, as his Ingrid aimed for the mothership of the VICTIM.
A pale golden glow suffused the sky, followed by a flash of red, then silence.
{Rei. Whatever happens, please, don't blame yourself. I love you, and I will return.}
Zero exhaled. Where was the mothership? Metal shards littered the space where the leader of VICTIM had been. He let out a whoop, then radioed the others: "We've got the advantage. Move in."
Hiead felt a burning yellow light surround him, before everything faded.
The young man in his arms sobbed harder, no longer caring if anyone saw or heard. "Zero."
"I left you to die, Hiead! I left you!" Zero rasped, his voice raw with despair.
"Rei, itooshii, shhhh. I'm alive. I'm here. Calm down," Hiead whispered. He glanced over at Rio and Garu, who rose from the sofa, and hurried over. "He needs to leave now. Can you say goodnight for us, while I take him outside?" They nodded, as he drew Zero up, gathering their coats. "You weren't to blame, not for the soccer player, and not for me. Given the circumstance, I would do everything again, no regrets. Come on. Let's see how high the moon has risen." Hiead walked outside, half-carrying Zero, to a small bench not far from the driveway.
Zero cried in his arms, falling forward onto Hiead's lap. He drew his legs up, curling in a catlike manner. Hiead stroked his dark mocha hair, then traced the young man's lips with his fingers. He moved down, chucking Zero under the chin, which caused him to shift, wrapping his arms around Hiead's waist.
Hiead sang, low at first, then louder: "Take my hand, you know I'll be there, if you can, I'll cross the sky for your love, for I have promised, oh, to be with you tonight, and for the time that will come. Take my hand, you know I'll be there, if you can, I'll cross the sky for your love. And I understand, these winds and tides, these changing tides won't drag you away. Hold on, and hold on tightly. Hold on, and don't let go of my love. The storm will pass; it won't be long now. This love will last; this love will last forever. Take my hand, you know I'll be there, if you can, I'll cross the sky for your love, and give you what I hold dear. Hold on, and hold on tightly. Hold on, and hold on tightly. Rise up, rise up, with wings like eagles. You'll run, you'll run, you'll run and not grow weary. Take my hand. Hold on, and hold on tightly. Hold on, and hold on tightly, to be strong---this love lasts forever. To be strong---this love lasts forever. Take my hand."
Zero's breathing slowed, as he began to calm, drifting into sleep. Go on, itooshii, rest. No-one's out to hurt you. I'll see that you make it through tonight, I promise. Hiead looked up at the sky, dark and starmad. He drew in a deep breath, and cradled Zero, who was now sound asleep. You are so lovely, and alive, in ways most people could never fathom. I don't understand why you trust me so readily. A sensible man would never approach a stranger; much less would he invite him to dinner. But then again, you aren't exactly cursed to be sensible, are you? Thank Kannon for that. A sensible man would bar the door on a saint.
Garu came outside, dragging Rio behind him. A piece of fried chicken clung to his lips, which were smeared with traces of creamed spinach, macaroni and cheese, and carrot soufflé. "Sorry we took so long. The original chowhound here got sidetracked. Can't you even use a wet-nap?" Rio looked down and mumbled something. "Oh, come on, sulky, you know we keep some in the glove box.
He pointed to Zero. "Is he going to be all right?"
"I think so," Hiead replied. "Today's run him roughshod, though. Not that it's been easy for anyone here. I think this death cut closer to the bone than even he imagined."
"Get him in the car, and we'll take a drive." Hiead scooped the sleeper up, carrying him to Garu and Rio's car. He climbed into the back seat, making sure not to rouse Zero, and let him remain on his lap. The others followed.
Garu turned on the engine, turned around, and wove down the driveway, past the trees and flowers of the garden. Once he reached Barrow Lane, he turned left, and followed the lane until he reached the junction of Rural Route 2. He followed RR2 to a steep, winding road that led through pine and birch forests, and emerged at the top of a plateau. He brought the car to a stop.
"Gentlemen, this is Inspiration Point," Garu said. "From here you can see Red River City. And if you're in a certain mood, you can pretend you're 16, right Rio?" He shot his partner a wicked look. "But tonight's not really the night for steaming up the windows. I just thought you might like a little stargazing."
Hiead looked at the city's skyline, following the light to the point where it reached up to meet the night sky. Breathtaking.
Zero stirred. "Hiead?" he whispered. "Where are you?" "My dear, sweet fool," Hiead murmured, "the question you ought to ask is, 'where am I, and why am I kipped out in your lap?' 'Cos if you're wondering where I am, I'm here, with a gorgeous brunet, in the back of a car. And there's a really lovely view of the city, and the night sky, outside."
He paused, then added, to himself, "But there isn't a single star that compares with you."
"What was that?" Zero asked, a bit more awake now.
"Nothing, never mind." Nearly gave yourself away back there, boy. Take a cold shower. Cold shower, hell, try a refreshing dip in the Red River!
"Where are we now?"
"Inspiration Point, or so Garu told me."
"And where are they?" Zero raised himself, stretched, and looked outside. He saw the two in each other's arms, exchanging a slow kiss. "I guess I lost it back at the wake, didn't I?" Zero lowered his eyes.
Hiead smiled, a sad smile. "Yes, you did. But nobody's going to flog you for it. And I would worry more if you didn't get upset. Hey," he said, "look at me. You can't let this eat you alive. And please, stop crucifying yourself for what happened way back when. You're alive. You're here. You are stronger than I ever would have been in this sort of situation."
"Strong? What the hell good is it to be strong when you can't save someone else?"
"There's a strength that outshines the worst calamities, Zero. Believe me."
Rio and Garu walked back to the car, arm-in-arm. "Hey dude," Rio said, "how was your nap?"
"Comfy, I guess. You guys all right?"
"Yeah, we're cool." Garu kissed Rio's forehead; Rio nestled his head in Garu's chest. "What say we get back for breakfast?"
"Sounds like a plan to me. What say you to a three-cheese strata?" Zero asked.
"Won't know till we get home," Garu said, removing his arm from Rio's waist, with a playful shove. They got into the car, waiting for Zero to sit up and fasten a seat belt. Hiead looked out the window, as the car started.
"How about a little music?" Rio asked, turning on the radio. Erts' voice broke the silence: "This is Radio Flora, with the music that colors your world. Erts Virny Cocteau with you, till one a.m. Listen for songs from David Bowie, Al Green, and Big Star. Neil Finn for you now, on Radio Flora." As the car descended from the Point, the music rose: "Deadlines again, feel like hiding out; no sign of comfort yet, have a nap while no-one's looking, bring some inspiration to the man. In my head, a namesake out of reach; strange days upon us now: we leave the dust of conversation hanging in the light above our bed. Leave me now, 'cos tonight it's driving me mad. I guess I'll be all right, but tonight it's driving me mad."
Hiead looked ahead. Rio had taken Garu's free hand, leaning close. He glanced at Zero, tapping him on the shoulder. "Hey there."
"Hey," Zero said. "They look cozy."
"You sure you're okay?" He studied the young man's face.
"Hold my hand?" Zero whispered.
"Sure," Hiead replied, taking Zero's hands in his. He moved closer, allowing the other to lean on his shoulder. They sat in silence, as the song continued: "Year after year, demons always come, fail to materialize, way beyond my understanding, find my only comfort in your hands. Hold me now, 'cos tonight it's driving me mad. This dream can fill you up, but tonight it's driving me mad."
Beech and pine trees glimmered in the moonlight, sentinels in the November night. An opossum scurried across the road; a white owl flew in pursuit.
"Hey diamond girl, restless in my head, say what lies between us, a host of everyday distractions, but most of all, it's music taking me. And it's driving me mad. Still I can't refuse, even when it's driving me mad. I guess I'll be all right, when tomorrow brings some relief. This dream can fill you up, so put it out and find what's underneath."
The four rode on, silent, while the music played.
Author's Notes
Hello everyone. How are y'all all? Thank you for your patience, persistence, and feedback with this story.
UE: tovarishch, thank you, thank you, thank you. In hindsight, I can stand to do some tweaking of the earlier interactions between Hiead and Zero. How much, I can't yet say---I am of the mind that, even separated, the two retain a sense of each other's presence. But you have given me definite (angel) food for thought! And I am so glad you liked the last chapter. Cloa: I'll try to keep an eye on the pace and the timing. Frequent posting has pros and cons---but there's always revision, and I don't mind that at all. Nozomi: I may just write a Zero/Kizna side story, covering their last years at college, and first years as teachers. And I am dreadfully sorry that Ikhny-chan did not live to see Hiead, alive and well---but there are still secrets sleeping. And when Yamagi and Roo-chan make their appearance, it will be a fabba ABBA moment. (Anyone care to take a guess at who will be Frida and who will be Agnetha?) D-chan: Thank you. I was hoping this would be a fresh story. Let me know what you think; your feedback is crucial. KLMeri: Look for Clay and Saki a few chapters down the pike. And hang loose! He may come through this all right, in the end. Never know. As always, to everyone who has read, I offer my undying gratitude. *bows*
Twenty-five reviews---happy happy joy joy! It's Free Space time! Look for Free Space next time! Questions, ideas, and a few notes.
Food fun facts: baba ganoush is a dip similar to hummus, made with eggplant. You can eat it with veggies, or slathered on pita bread, with a little olive oil. Torrejas are a Spanish version of French toast, served in clear anise syrup.
Lyrical contents: When Hiead sings to Zero in the garden, he sings "Drowning Man," which is on the U2 album, War. I think Bono wrote the lyrics, possibly with the Edge. The song playing on Radio Flora is "Driving Me Mad," written by Neil Finn. I don't own the rights. I just enjoy the music.
Once more, thank you all. Your reviews, feedback, comments, and critique all are welcome. And to those who have been reading, and haven't yet reviewed: I want to hear from you as well!
Antoinette (poetisa)
A four-door sedan climbed up a hill, lined with high walls and elaborate fences. Live oak trees, now bare, spread branches over Barrow Lane---one of the streets connecting Red River City's two halves.
Hiead and Zero sat in the back seat, cradling covered dishes. Garu drove, while Rio cast a longing look at the food that they were delivering to the Kuerten house. "Bloody waste of time," Garu muttered. "Up here in Rosso Heights, they can cater a wake."
"Look, I asked Mrs. Kuerten if she wanted me to bring anything. She said yes, and I see no reason to go back on my word," Zero replied.
"Your call, buddy boy," Garu said, as he slowed the car. "So, is this the place?" He pulled up to a driveway that led back to a ranch-style house. "Man, I thought this would be more posh."
"Depends on what your notion of posh is. That is all I have to say."
"It seems quite luxuriant to me," Hiead murmured, as he took in the view of the gardens leading up to the house. There was a gazebo, large enough to seat a dinner party of 20, with room to spare. Wisteria vines graced a large pavilion just beyond. He saw light glowing in a hothouse, and Japanese maples, mingled with ash and cherry trees. Who cares about the house? I'd take the garden, any day.
Once they reached the house, Garu parked the car. He and Rio got out, opening the back doors. Zero and Hiead, dishes in hand, got out while the two closed the back doors and locked up. The moon had risen, lighting Hiead's hair with pale fire. Garu rang the doorbell. A woman in her mid- 40s, with auburn hair, hazel eyes, and a black dress, opened the door. "Please come in," she said. "Thank you for coming. Just set the dishes on the dining room table."
"Thank you, Mrs. Kuerten," Zero answered. "You've met Coach Vilgyna. This is his companion, Gareas Elidd, and this is an old friend of mine, Darden Angel. He just arrived today." Eveline Kuerten shook hands with Rioroute and Garu in turn, waiting for Hiead and Zero to set the dishes on the table.
Hiead stared in disbelief at the assortment of food laid out already: glazed ham, roast beef, smoked salmon, a number of side dishes ranging from potato salad to baba ganoush, cold platters with cheese and vegetables, and a teeth-tingling array of desserts, from brownies to torrejas, all on a table that would easily seat more than 50 people. Two carts held plates, cups, and silverware; coffee, cream, a thermal pot of hot water, and iced water pitchers, with glasses nearby, covered two more carts. Black cloth veiled frames with different artwork.
He removed the coat, placing it on a bench in the foyer, and rejoined the others in the living room. Mourners clustered in different groups: teammates and classmates to the right; family members to the left; and ahead, a line of teachers and faculty approaching the dead boy's parents.
Eveline sat in a damasked armchair, her face a mixture of sorrow and anger. Guillermo Kuerten, her ex-husband, sat next to her. He received sympathies with a cool, unwavering expression. His face resembled a stone bluff: black eyes, set in a craggy face, measured the room. Hiead noted the tension between the former spouses. These two are in cease-fire mode. I doubt that will last beyond the actual funeral. If this is anything like Mickey's funeral, the fights will probably start before the first clump of dirt hits the casket.
Rio and Garu approached the couple and bowed. Rio clasped Mrs. Kuerten's hands, then shook the hand of Mr. Kuerten. Garu did the same; after a few words, the two bowed again and walked toward a sofa. After several other faculty members approached, Zero came up, bowing.
He took Mrs. Kuerten's hand, and said, "Your son was a fine young man. I can't think of much more to say. I am sorry." He then shook Mr. Kuerten's hand. "I'm sorry, Mr. Kuerten."
He then walked over to a photograph of Ryker, draped in black, with white chrysanthemums at the base. He clapped his hands, and bowed his head. The sandy-haired, grey-eyed image stared back, a dim light behind the eyes. Zero cleared his throat, and spoke: "You were such a great player, Ryker. You had the gift of goal. What happened? You could have done so much more." Tears fell; he wiped them away with the back of his hand. "You should be here."
Hiead approached the Kuertens, doing what he had seen the others do. He shook hands in silence, then approached the photograph, where Zero had lingered, still crying. He clapped his hands, lowered his head, and murmured, "Memory Eternal. May your memory be eternal."
Zero stood, mute and paralyzed with grief. Hiead put an arm around his shoulder, leading him to a quiet part of the room. Dark blue eyes gazed into space, glassy with unshed tears. He started to mumble, "Should have seen the signs, should have paid more attention, how did I miss the danger? I left him in the lurch, why, should be here, should be here---no." His voice dropped to a cracked whisper. "I failed you." He collapsed into Hiead's arms, sobbing hard.
Hiead stroked his hair, whispering, "You've done all you can do for the boy. You weren't a bad coach, you didn't leave him to his own. You didn't fail him."
"I failed you, failed you in the worst way," Zero wept. Why did you intercept that VICTIM ambush? I should have died that day. Not you, not you, it wasn't right, not at all right!
A memory surfaced in Hiead's mind: surrounded by a horde of VICTIM, he had tried to contact the other Pilots. "Zero! Yamagi! Erts! Yu! Is there anyone there? If you can hear me, let me know." He struck at his assailants, who fell away. A shock coursed down his spine. From his screen, he saw VICTIM, in a pincer formation, closing in on Zero. He reached out to the First Pilot. {Zero, the VICTIM is setting you up for an ambush. You've got to change your flight pattern, now.}
He heard Zero's thoughts. {Hiead, what's the matter? Why haven't you radioed me?}
{No time. I'm going to draw their fire away. Go after the mothership.} {They'll kill you, Hiead. I can take care of them.}
{Are you mad? Leave them to me. I'll be all right.}
{Hiead, no. You can't.}
{I will. And I want to. I'm not afraid.}
{But Hiead, what if---}
{Don't argue! Just aim for the mothership! I'll watch your back.}
Hiead changed direction, charging headlong into the oncoming ranks. He felt his EX surge, white light radiating around him, as he attacked the circling masses. In the distance, he sensed Zero's reaction, as his Ingrid aimed for the mothership of the VICTIM.
A pale golden glow suffused the sky, followed by a flash of red, then silence.
{Rei. Whatever happens, please, don't blame yourself. I love you, and I will return.}
Zero exhaled. Where was the mothership? Metal shards littered the space where the leader of VICTIM had been. He let out a whoop, then radioed the others: "We've got the advantage. Move in."
Hiead felt a burning yellow light surround him, before everything faded.
The young man in his arms sobbed harder, no longer caring if anyone saw or heard. "Zero."
"I left you to die, Hiead! I left you!" Zero rasped, his voice raw with despair.
"Rei, itooshii, shhhh. I'm alive. I'm here. Calm down," Hiead whispered. He glanced over at Rio and Garu, who rose from the sofa, and hurried over. "He needs to leave now. Can you say goodnight for us, while I take him outside?" They nodded, as he drew Zero up, gathering their coats. "You weren't to blame, not for the soccer player, and not for me. Given the circumstance, I would do everything again, no regrets. Come on. Let's see how high the moon has risen." Hiead walked outside, half-carrying Zero, to a small bench not far from the driveway.
Zero cried in his arms, falling forward onto Hiead's lap. He drew his legs up, curling in a catlike manner. Hiead stroked his dark mocha hair, then traced the young man's lips with his fingers. He moved down, chucking Zero under the chin, which caused him to shift, wrapping his arms around Hiead's waist.
Hiead sang, low at first, then louder: "Take my hand, you know I'll be there, if you can, I'll cross the sky for your love, for I have promised, oh, to be with you tonight, and for the time that will come. Take my hand, you know I'll be there, if you can, I'll cross the sky for your love. And I understand, these winds and tides, these changing tides won't drag you away. Hold on, and hold on tightly. Hold on, and don't let go of my love. The storm will pass; it won't be long now. This love will last; this love will last forever. Take my hand, you know I'll be there, if you can, I'll cross the sky for your love, and give you what I hold dear. Hold on, and hold on tightly. Hold on, and hold on tightly. Rise up, rise up, with wings like eagles. You'll run, you'll run, you'll run and not grow weary. Take my hand. Hold on, and hold on tightly. Hold on, and hold on tightly, to be strong---this love lasts forever. To be strong---this love lasts forever. Take my hand."
Zero's breathing slowed, as he began to calm, drifting into sleep. Go on, itooshii, rest. No-one's out to hurt you. I'll see that you make it through tonight, I promise. Hiead looked up at the sky, dark and starmad. He drew in a deep breath, and cradled Zero, who was now sound asleep. You are so lovely, and alive, in ways most people could never fathom. I don't understand why you trust me so readily. A sensible man would never approach a stranger; much less would he invite him to dinner. But then again, you aren't exactly cursed to be sensible, are you? Thank Kannon for that. A sensible man would bar the door on a saint.
Garu came outside, dragging Rio behind him. A piece of fried chicken clung to his lips, which were smeared with traces of creamed spinach, macaroni and cheese, and carrot soufflé. "Sorry we took so long. The original chowhound here got sidetracked. Can't you even use a wet-nap?" Rio looked down and mumbled something. "Oh, come on, sulky, you know we keep some in the glove box.
He pointed to Zero. "Is he going to be all right?"
"I think so," Hiead replied. "Today's run him roughshod, though. Not that it's been easy for anyone here. I think this death cut closer to the bone than even he imagined."
"Get him in the car, and we'll take a drive." Hiead scooped the sleeper up, carrying him to Garu and Rio's car. He climbed into the back seat, making sure not to rouse Zero, and let him remain on his lap. The others followed.
Garu turned on the engine, turned around, and wove down the driveway, past the trees and flowers of the garden. Once he reached Barrow Lane, he turned left, and followed the lane until he reached the junction of Rural Route 2. He followed RR2 to a steep, winding road that led through pine and birch forests, and emerged at the top of a plateau. He brought the car to a stop.
"Gentlemen, this is Inspiration Point," Garu said. "From here you can see Red River City. And if you're in a certain mood, you can pretend you're 16, right Rio?" He shot his partner a wicked look. "But tonight's not really the night for steaming up the windows. I just thought you might like a little stargazing."
Hiead looked at the city's skyline, following the light to the point where it reached up to meet the night sky. Breathtaking.
Zero stirred. "Hiead?" he whispered. "Where are you?" "My dear, sweet fool," Hiead murmured, "the question you ought to ask is, 'where am I, and why am I kipped out in your lap?' 'Cos if you're wondering where I am, I'm here, with a gorgeous brunet, in the back of a car. And there's a really lovely view of the city, and the night sky, outside."
He paused, then added, to himself, "But there isn't a single star that compares with you."
"What was that?" Zero asked, a bit more awake now.
"Nothing, never mind." Nearly gave yourself away back there, boy. Take a cold shower. Cold shower, hell, try a refreshing dip in the Red River!
"Where are we now?"
"Inspiration Point, or so Garu told me."
"And where are they?" Zero raised himself, stretched, and looked outside. He saw the two in each other's arms, exchanging a slow kiss. "I guess I lost it back at the wake, didn't I?" Zero lowered his eyes.
Hiead smiled, a sad smile. "Yes, you did. But nobody's going to flog you for it. And I would worry more if you didn't get upset. Hey," he said, "look at me. You can't let this eat you alive. And please, stop crucifying yourself for what happened way back when. You're alive. You're here. You are stronger than I ever would have been in this sort of situation."
"Strong? What the hell good is it to be strong when you can't save someone else?"
"There's a strength that outshines the worst calamities, Zero. Believe me."
Rio and Garu walked back to the car, arm-in-arm. "Hey dude," Rio said, "how was your nap?"
"Comfy, I guess. You guys all right?"
"Yeah, we're cool." Garu kissed Rio's forehead; Rio nestled his head in Garu's chest. "What say we get back for breakfast?"
"Sounds like a plan to me. What say you to a three-cheese strata?" Zero asked.
"Won't know till we get home," Garu said, removing his arm from Rio's waist, with a playful shove. They got into the car, waiting for Zero to sit up and fasten a seat belt. Hiead looked out the window, as the car started.
"How about a little music?" Rio asked, turning on the radio. Erts' voice broke the silence: "This is Radio Flora, with the music that colors your world. Erts Virny Cocteau with you, till one a.m. Listen for songs from David Bowie, Al Green, and Big Star. Neil Finn for you now, on Radio Flora." As the car descended from the Point, the music rose: "Deadlines again, feel like hiding out; no sign of comfort yet, have a nap while no-one's looking, bring some inspiration to the man. In my head, a namesake out of reach; strange days upon us now: we leave the dust of conversation hanging in the light above our bed. Leave me now, 'cos tonight it's driving me mad. I guess I'll be all right, but tonight it's driving me mad."
Hiead looked ahead. Rio had taken Garu's free hand, leaning close. He glanced at Zero, tapping him on the shoulder. "Hey there."
"Hey," Zero said. "They look cozy."
"You sure you're okay?" He studied the young man's face.
"Hold my hand?" Zero whispered.
"Sure," Hiead replied, taking Zero's hands in his. He moved closer, allowing the other to lean on his shoulder. They sat in silence, as the song continued: "Year after year, demons always come, fail to materialize, way beyond my understanding, find my only comfort in your hands. Hold me now, 'cos tonight it's driving me mad. This dream can fill you up, but tonight it's driving me mad."
Beech and pine trees glimmered in the moonlight, sentinels in the November night. An opossum scurried across the road; a white owl flew in pursuit.
"Hey diamond girl, restless in my head, say what lies between us, a host of everyday distractions, but most of all, it's music taking me. And it's driving me mad. Still I can't refuse, even when it's driving me mad. I guess I'll be all right, when tomorrow brings some relief. This dream can fill you up, so put it out and find what's underneath."
The four rode on, silent, while the music played.
Author's Notes
Hello everyone. How are y'all all? Thank you for your patience, persistence, and feedback with this story.
UE: tovarishch, thank you, thank you, thank you. In hindsight, I can stand to do some tweaking of the earlier interactions between Hiead and Zero. How much, I can't yet say---I am of the mind that, even separated, the two retain a sense of each other's presence. But you have given me definite (angel) food for thought! And I am so glad you liked the last chapter. Cloa: I'll try to keep an eye on the pace and the timing. Frequent posting has pros and cons---but there's always revision, and I don't mind that at all. Nozomi: I may just write a Zero/Kizna side story, covering their last years at college, and first years as teachers. And I am dreadfully sorry that Ikhny-chan did not live to see Hiead, alive and well---but there are still secrets sleeping. And when Yamagi and Roo-chan make their appearance, it will be a fabba ABBA moment. (Anyone care to take a guess at who will be Frida and who will be Agnetha?) D-chan: Thank you. I was hoping this would be a fresh story. Let me know what you think; your feedback is crucial. KLMeri: Look for Clay and Saki a few chapters down the pike. And hang loose! He may come through this all right, in the end. Never know. As always, to everyone who has read, I offer my undying gratitude. *bows*
Twenty-five reviews---happy happy joy joy! It's Free Space time! Look for Free Space next time! Questions, ideas, and a few notes.
Food fun facts: baba ganoush is a dip similar to hummus, made with eggplant. You can eat it with veggies, or slathered on pita bread, with a little olive oil. Torrejas are a Spanish version of French toast, served in clear anise syrup.
Lyrical contents: When Hiead sings to Zero in the garden, he sings "Drowning Man," which is on the U2 album, War. I think Bono wrote the lyrics, possibly with the Edge. The song playing on Radio Flora is "Driving Me Mad," written by Neil Finn. I don't own the rights. I just enjoy the music.
Once more, thank you all. Your reviews, feedback, comments, and critique all are welcome. And to those who have been reading, and haven't yet reviewed: I want to hear from you as well!
Antoinette (poetisa)