E3 Foxu's Fall E3
I heard a few distance words as the world hazed back into view. Then out of no where came a sharp kick to my side. The force rolled me over as I grunted in protest. I covered my face as the bright light came as a shock.
"Just another drunk!" A burly man called out from over me. From where he was standing he must've been the one who kicked me.
I quickly cleared my thoughts, and stood upright starring daggers at the man. "What did you call me?" I barked.
The man snickered. "Don't be so testy! We get a lotta drunks back here!" he said and laughed.
I narrowed my eyes and squezed my hand into a tigh fist. The man came crashing to the ground as my fist cracked into his skull. I could hear his slight moan of pain as he passed out. I spat and rubbed my hand.
"Thats what you get for calling me drunk..." I hissed as I left the scene.
It felt hard walking home - alone. I couldn't ake heads nor tails about what had happened last night, and for some reason I had a horrid headach. I rubbed my throbbing head as I retrieve my cell phone from my pocket. Swiftly browsing through the speed dial I came across a number I had rarely, if ever, used - the police. 'The police? I'd poly have better luck with renegade circus clowns...but I don't know who else to call...' I though and sighed as I clicked the call button.
I finished the call and shoved the phone back into my pocket as the hotel came into view. I slowly opened the door and surveyed the room. No one was there. 'I was half hoping he'd be here...it'd make more sence then...whatever it was that happened...' I though as I walked inside.
It seemed so desolate, so still. It had been so long since I'd been alone in that room, it just felt wrong without him. I shut the door behind me, and stumbled back onto it. I could feel tears sweeling up from within me, I tried to fight it as it got harder and harder to breath. Finnally my legs gave way and I fell to the floor sobing. 'He can't be gone...not like that...' I thought as the tears kept streaming by. 'What was that? It was just there...then gone...' I cleaned off a few tears, but more came streaming down. I threw my head back against the door in defeat. 'I don't think I've cried this hard since Seto said I was goin to die...', "I wish I would..." I cried out and clenched my eyes clossed causing a sudden flood of tears. "Its..its ll my fault...why didn't I do anything!?!?" I yelled out as I pressed my palm to my forehead and weaved my fingers into my hair. "its...its...all my fault..."
A harsh knock came to the door. I groaned and quickly covered my ears with my hands. "Why can't anyone just leave me alone today?!?!" I quietly moaned as the knock came again.
"Hello?" Came a voice from the outside.
I had never heard this voice before...I didn't think it was from the hotel. It was a hard voice with no emotion to it. 'I'm not in the mood for this...' I thought to myself. "Go away!" I yelled to whom ever was at the door.
"Ms. Techie? Is that you?" came the voice again.
"I said leave me alone!!!"
"I'm from Industrial Illusions...you need to come with me. Its very important."
'Industrial ilusions?!?' I though as my heart raced 'They...no! How could they know? They must be here because of my brake in...but...but how could they know, how could they find me?!?!?' I tried to get up, but didn't make any headway as a harsh cough came up my through. I covered my mouth and sniveled slightly. 'I've got to get out of here...'
"Are you alright? Please miss, its very important you come with me."
I took a deep breath, trying to collect my thoughts. 'Okay, okay...I just gotta stall him till I can find some way out...' I though "Um...what exactly is so important?" I said as clearly as I could as I finally scambled to my feet.
"Uhh...I'm really not supposed to say..."
'Ooooh...now I'm SURE you're not trying to bust me! Jeeze...he could've at least made something up!' I thought as I scanned the room for an exit. The only thing I found was a single window. "I'm not going any where with you if you can't even tell my why!" I said trying to buy more time as I came up to the window.
"I can't tell you. And I really must insist that you come with me."
'Man, what hack wrote his lines?' I thought as I got in view of the outside. I scanned down the building, but there was nothing but a sheer drop 'That is SO wrong!!! Havn't Egyptians ever heard of FIRE ESCAPES?!?!? SERIOSLY! If the building was on fire you'd have to be freaking spiderman to get out!!!' I thought as I faced the dizzying drop. 'Okay...gotta cool down...well...at least there isn't a squad of police or something..hey! Maybie theres only that one guy waiting...I could take only one...' I thought spinning around to the clossed door.
"Please, no harm will come to you."
'Yea...just my best days behind bars...' I thought sticking my tounge out at the door. 'Here goes nothing...' I thought as I put my hand to the nob. I clossed my eyes for one monent and turned to look at the room one last time. It had been my home for so long now... 'it had been our home...' I thought and bit my lip. A small glint of light flicked near the bed, and I walked over to it. On the dresser I found the dagger I had fought with Jovan over. I took it and held it to my chest. 'Jovan...where did you go?' I thought as a nother tear found its way down my cheek.
"Please miss!"
'Hes way too persistent!' I thought "Fine! I'm comming! Keep you shirt on..." I angrily yelled through the door. I quickly hid the dagger under my clothes, and brushed off any remaining tears before opening the door.
As I looked upon those standing out side an overwheling feeling of dread came over me. There were a total of three men standing there. The first was a sickingly ordinary suit, with the sole exeption of dusty green hair. The two men behind him were most clearly hired goons, they boasted the muscle - and more importantly the firearms. "Please, come with me." said the first man holding out his hand in invitation.
'ooooh badness. Well, at least I get to go knowing they thought I was a threat! Sidearms and person escrt for a hacker? That gotta be big...heres hoping I get out before pigs start sprouting wings...' I thought. I scoffed at his invitation. "I don't like this. I want to know where your taking me." I said coldly.
The man seemed somewhat dispointed in my behaivor. "I can't tell you. But you'll find out soon enough. Now, please,come with me."
"Like I have a choice." I hissed as I exited the room.
The man made room, and began walking my out of the hotel "There only here for your protection"
"Ooooh, I'm soooo sure!" I said, the sarcasm dripping from every word.
It wasn't long till he led me out the hotel and onto the strrets, where we soon caught up with a copter in waiting. 'snazy...but doesn't make a lot of sence...they shouldn't even go to the trouble...unless their planning on throwing my out once we get over the ocean...' I thought and sighed 'so what if they do...no one will know...let alone care...'
We boarded onto to the copter, which was surprizingly roomy...which didn't make me feel any better. Just as everyone sat down the first man retrieved a cell phone with which he preceded to call someone. I couldn't help but listen in. The two goons resembled lamp posts more then actual people, and there wasn't any one else one the copter...no witnesses I suppose. It sounded to me as if he was calling his boss to confirm everything.
The trip seemed to grow quiter by the seccond. It felt akward to breath, but the harder I tried to keep quit the louder it sounded. I was next to the window though. At least I could avade eye contact by peering out the window. But there wasn't much to see. Just water, water, and yet more water.
The quitness droned on as the sun began to disipate behind the waves. I felt my eyelids go down with it as leaned over the arm rest and set my head against the glass of the window.
E3E3E3E3E3
I slowly awoke to something I hadn't expected - a soft bed. For a moment I enjoyed the cloud-like matress and soft, fluffy covers. Untill a though poped into my head 'I was out of it...they could've done ANYTHING' I thought and my eyes shot open in horror. I quickly flung ff the covers with such force I ended up hitting the floor. "ooww..." I whimpered as I got to my feet.
I overlooked the entire room, including myself. The bed looked empty enough, and I was wearing my same clothes - minus one dagger. I soon found it sitting peacefully on the night stand. I swiftly took it into my hand and sat on the bed.
I traced over the body of the dagger nerviously. 'Maybie it just fell out...or a metal detector...or...it could've been pn of a million innocent things...' I thought to myself as I kept fiddling with it when I heard the door creek.
I squezed the dagger tightly in my hand as I heard the noise. The dagger dug deep into my palm and I yelped out in pain, closing my eyes tightly as a few tears fell.
Who ever had come in was soon at my side with one arm across my back resting on my shoulder, and the other under my clenched hands.
"Let me see..." He soothed, with a gentle yet passionate voice.
It felt very odd - being in someone arms again. But this...it was different from when I was with Jovan. It felt like love...but of a different kind, though I had no idea what. If something like this had happened before Jovan I would've pushed him away for even being near me, but it felt...good just to be near someone - someone warm and loving...like Jovan... I slowly opened up my hands, and winced as I did so - letting loose a few more tears in the process.
He moved his hand from my shoulder and onto my head as I winced. It was so soft I barely noticed. He stroked my hair as he gently took the dagger from my hand, releasing the wound to th air. I snifled as it felt worse exposed. He carefully placed the dagger back on the nightstand without leaving my side. When he settled back down on the bed he drew my closer with the hand he had on my head, and with the otherhe gently rubbed the back of my hands.
"I'm so sorry..I should've known better..." He said quitly and gently rested his head atop mine. A few strands of silvery hair flew down over my face, but he swiftly moved them out of the way.
Something about them seemed familiar 'silver hair...' I thought, trying to make what sence I could of what was happening. I took a look at the dagger sitting on the night stand it was dripping blood onto the hardwood 'why did he just leave it there...it could stain or scratch...or something' I thought 'why is any of this happening anyway? I thought I was busted...none of this makes sence...I don't even know this guy...'
"who...are you?" I finally asked.
He took a moment, then stroked my hair and responded "You can call me Max." but something about how he said it felt strained...like he wanted me to call him something...different.
"Max..." I mumbled trying to put the pieces together. I practically jumped as I stumbled on the answer 'People from Industrial Illusions...silver hair...max!! This...this guy is Pegasus!! THE Pegasus! The totall nut ball PEGASUS! I'm dead...mercy I am so dead...' My heart raced as every bit of critisism and rumor about him surfaced in my mind, one of the few people who could outright out power me was sitting right next to me...CODLING ME??!?!
I quickly pushed away, leaving a clear crimson hand print on his already red suit. When I turned I could see him in full view. He looked as shocked as I was...though I could only see his one eye...the other was covered with his thick locks, though I could make out something of a patch behind the silver tresses.
I took a few steps back, and as I did his face turned from shock to concern. "whats wrong?" He asked.
My heart felt like it was racing faster and faster 'what wrong?!?! Oh, besides the fact that I may be six feet under tomarow, nothing. nothing at all. Or..worse..' I thought starring directly at him. "You..your..." I trailed off reapeating the words over and over, quiter each time.
He stood up with a dismayed look, that wanted me to jump out of my skin and never stop running, but I felt I couldn't move... "I'm Maximillion Pegasus." he said calmly. He took a few steps closer and put his arm over my shoulder.
I whimpered a little, but still couldn't move. He raised his other hand to my chin and pushed up to close it. A small hint of red flashed on my face as he did so. He then sighed and rubbed my shoulder.
"Comon, we should get something for your hand..." he said softly.
I barely nodded 'what, don't like your victims to have cuts? ...please oh please don't answer that...' I though as I bit my lip and a small tear fell.
He led me over to what must've been a kitchen where he rinsed off my hands, put some sort of medicene on my cut, and bandged it too. Then, after stroking my hair one last time he left me with the words "Be good".
I blinked as he shut the door behind him. '...what was that...all of that...luring my into a false sence of security?' I thought, and looked down at my hand. I didn't hurt that much anymore...he really did a good job fixing it. I held it in my other hand as his touch still lingered. It was such a soft touch...though I heard even stark raving lunatics could have a tender touch. A sudden chill flashed down my spine, and I swiftly shut my eyes as close as I could "I've gotta get out of here..." I said to myself.
I krept over to the door he had just left through, I nudged it over just a sliver and peeked out to see if I could see any one, I didn't see a sole. I opened the door enough so I could peek to the other side f the hall it opened into. I gave out a sigh of relief as I still didn't see any one.
I left the room behind in search of the exit. The mansion was quite expansive, but I didn't run into any servants...there used to be so manny when my father still lived with me...I was surprised Pegasus wouldn't have any, though I was gratefull for it. I always thought that Pegasus wouldn't be that different from my father...maybie a little more insane, but who was to say my father wasn't - I hadn't seen him in years. But I supose when you think of it, most of the higher-ups had something of an evil killer stereotype... I always wondered what kind of stereotype the media would pin on me...but they never found out I was here. I never could figure out how my father kept me a secret...though I know why. He didn't want to deal with me...or let the media do that for him...
I made good headway and soon found myself face-to-face with the foyer, exept one small problem. There was a goon by the door. 'maybie if I act cool he won't suspect anything...' I thought as I got collected as I could and walked calmly twards the door, but just as I got to the nob the guard spoke up. 'so close...' I thought as I looked longingly at the small metalic ball under my fingertips.
"did you get permission to go out?" he asked.
'permission? What am I - a teenager?? ...well, yes...but that doesnt mean I need permission...who does he think he is...' I thought as I felt a slight stab in my pride from his words. "Yeah, I got permission." I said looking strait at him.
He chuckled "Your a good liar, kid, but Pegasus just told me not to let you out."
I glarred at him angrily 'I'm not some stupid kid I don't have to put up with this!!' I thought. "You mean I'm a prisnor here?!?! You have no right!! Let me through!!" I yelled.
He snickered "rich kids..." he said under his breath "If ya wanna go out you gotta take it up with Mister Pegasus!"
I could've about poped him one right there. 'Oh, yea, out of the frying pan and into the fire? I'm not stupid! I'm not risking my neck for this...' I thought, and simply left the foyer without a word.
I began searching through the place. To my surprise most of the doors were locked, and nothing seemed familiar 'I really should've been paying more attention when I came through here the first time...' I thought as I wandered through the maze-like house. It felt like forever untill I heard something. It sounded like Pegasus, my head said I should run as fast as I could, but my curiosity got the better of me and I followed the sound untill I came up too a door. It was getting later in the afternoon so I could see the slight glow of light underneth it.
I slowly and carefully pressed my ear up to the door, and could just hear what he was saying. He must've been on the telephone because of how coppy it sounded.
"Hello, yes. I'm trying to get a hold of Jack Techie." he said calmly.
A fear struck me as I heard that name 'MY...my father....' I thought, then a rather odd thought doned on me 'Jack? I don't think I've ever heard his name before...I never really got that old...and what I read was always 'Mr. Techie'...funny, I always thought he'd have a big stupid German name...' I thought when Pegasus continued.
"I need to speak with him. ...in person would be better. As soon as possible. Tomarrow? yea, three would be fine. Thank you." He said, and I could hear the small click of a phone.
I pressed my ear up against the door as it got a little quiet. I could hear Pegasus sigh deeply.
"If only I didn't have to go to this meeting...why couldn't I be busy some other time? I should be there for Foxu...I wonder if she even knows whats going on...why did she do that...I've thought over it a million times! I just don't know what went wrong...it was like she was scarred of me..." he trailed off, and sighed again "I'm going to be late...better get moving..."
I looked down to the floor 'but...arn't I suposed to be scared?' I thought, then fully realizing he was going to get out soon I quickly got to my feet, and ran down the hall. I tried all the doors, but the wouldn't budge. That is, untill one. I quickly flung open the door and looked inside. It was the same room I had woken up too, my Dagger was still on the table. I sighed in relief and shut the door behind me.
I walked into the room and flopped on the bed. I curled up in the blankets and laid facing the empty half of the bed. I gave a little whimper and burried my head in the pillow. "Why do things happen all at once...if Jovan was here..." I sniffled "everything would be better..." I said as tears started to fall onto my pillow.
E3E3E3E3E3
I woke up to feel a soft touch caressing the side of my face. I quickly remembered the feeling and tried to act as if I was still sleeping. "I wish you were awake..." he started "I wish I knew what I did wrong...I've only just begun and already I've messed up..." He said softly. He sighed, he was probably hoping I would've waken up by now. He leaned down and whispered into my ear "I wish I knew sooner...Things would have been different. I promise..." He then moved up and kised me on the forehead, and left my bed side. "Sleep well..."
As I heard the door shut I opened my eyes, and looked over to it "what does all that mean...what do you know that I don't..." I said quietly, and reached up to my forehead. "what does all this mean..." I sighed, and went back to bed.
I whiped what tears remained from my eyes and sat up in bed. I felt really tired and soon flopped back down. I groaned slightly as I felt like I'd been hit like a truck 'Its not fair...I fell so drained...mentally physically...' I though and whimpered. I slowly turned around to get a look at the night stand where I found a small clock bleeping "2:00" at me. 'Two o'clock? ...maybie it was later then I thought when I went to bed...'
I then looked lower to see the Dagger sitting on the stand. I reached my hand up to it. I was a little started when I first touched the blade - the blood was as wet as it was when it cut my the other day.
I lifted my bangaged hand out to see that the blood had soaked through a lot of the bandage, and I could see the red. I looked at the dagger again 'shouldn't it be...just a little bit dryer now...' I thought, then lifted my bandaged hand up to the Dagger, and noticed the small ruby sparkle as my palm crossed over it.
I shook my head and looked again. This time the ruby was normal. I touched it with other hand, and nothing happened. 'I wonder why it did that...this thing alwyas seemed a little...creepy. But whenever I'm near it...I don't know why, but it fells like I'm closer to Jovan...' I thought, and laid my hand on the handle 'But now...he just seems so...distant...' I sighed... 'If theres any way you can hear me...please...' "Please be okay Jovan...I miss you so much...I love you..." I whisped.
I clossed my eyes tightly, and a few drops fell. I brushed them away from my face, and leaned back into the bed. I sighed deeply as I looked at the clock, and Dagger each sitting so motionless on the night stand. I bit my lip 'why is it...I spent so much time alone before...but now...it feels like theres something missing. That I'm not all here...Oh, please come back safe Jovan...' I thought.
I rubbed my eyes as they began to grow heavy 'maybie i'll feel stronger soon...but I want to be there at three...maybie I'll finnally know whats going on....' I thought, then yawned and went back to sleep.
I was awake off, and on untill I some noises comming from out side my room. I rubbed my eyes, and yawned. I still felt tired, but I must;ve slept some of it off, because I wasn't as tired as before.
I snuck out of bed and listened against the door. The sounds were getting louder, I could just make out Pegasus's voice, and someone else. It took me a longer to realize it was my father's voice. It sounded different from what I remember...but maybie it was just his "work voice" I noticed Pegasus had changed in tone as well. I heard a door shut and the voices became muffled.
'They must be in his office! Better check if the cost is clear...' I thought as I opened my door, and peeked out. There was no one in sight. I creeped out and quietly shut my dorr, and made my way to where the voices where the loudest. It was in front of the same door as yestarday.
They were talking louder then Pegasus was te day before, so I didn't have to get so close to the door. Instead I sat down and leaned up against the wall next to the door as they continued to talk.
"Thats all well and good Mr. Techie, but thats hardly why I called you here today." Pegasus said
"Yes, I know...I heard. Are you sure those were the results?" My father asked.
"Yes, positive. I had them checked."
"I...I see...well then... If I may ask, how exactly did you come across the...er...results..." Jack replied. He seemed somewhat anxious trying to evade whatever it was Pegasus wanted.
"A Doctor in Cairo ran them, tried to keep them a secret, but apperently failed. Turned out he had something of a record for that sort of thing..."
'A doctor in Cairo?? A record?? Could it be that guy I hired...but it couldn't be...even so...where would Pegasus care if I was sick or not...this still makes no sence.' I thought as they continued.
"Oh, yea...I saw that in the papers...said he had things on lots of people...celebrities mostly...the results did say she was cured...right?" My father asked, he still seemed so nervious! But why...
"Yes...at least some good news..." Pegasus sort of trailed off, almost sounding...bitter.
'I'm cured?!?! SOME good news? Hot dawg...thats some REALLY good news! I guess my privacy is blown...but at least I know! Wow...its about time something good happened...' I thought.
"And...Cairo, thats where you found her right? My...I wonder what she was doing all the way over there! Heh...kids can sure get around these days...not when I wa-" He was about to ramble on, but Pegasus stopped him.
"You know what I want to hear." Pegasus said sternly.
Techie gulped "yes...I know...I kinda lost track when she was just a little thing....always had a temper though..."
"Start from the very beginning. How did you get her."
'what...'get me.' am I some sort of door prize? What is he getting at...' I thought.
Techie cleared his throut "Yes...I knew you would...but I should warn you, your not going to like it. It might be best if things go unsaid..." He said in his last attempt to sway Pegasus.
"Tell me everything."
"It all started...on the missionary trip..." Techie started.
'I almost burst out laughing "Mr. Techie missionary extradinaire!!" Oooooh, this is good! My dad, on a missionary trip?!?! I wish I brought a tape recorder...this could make some GREAT black mail someday...' I thought mentaly giggling.
"Thats when I saw her...I can remember it like yestarday. She was the prettiest little thing, and blonde to boot. I've always said you can never go wrong with blonde." He chuckled then continued "Anyway...I didn't know much about her then...if I had known she was married I wouldn't have done it...but at the time se was ringless, claimed to have 'gotten it re-sized' ha! She always did seem too innocent..."
I really didn't like where this was going...and my dad didn't sound at all ashamed, though I couldn've sworn I heard some cursing from Pegasus 'ah...dad...I guess some of that name calling when I was younger was...justified...no wonder why I never knew my mother...'
"It was pretty cold out...so I suggested we all go out and get a little 'warmed up'" Techie continued "I swear she must've never touched a bottle in her whole life! It took a little coaxing, but she came around eventuallly 'one glass' she said, but one glass was more then enough! She really couldn't hold her liquor!' Techie said.
"Could you please get on with it." Pegasus growled. He sounded to me as if he was ready to strangle Techie.
Techie chuckled, it made me feel sick inside 'Why do I have to be related to him? Out of everyone in the world...' I thought, wanting to hide even though no one could see me.
"I told you, you wouldn't like it!" he said "But that was pretty much it...she was completely put of it, and didn't know what she was doing! But I'm sure you don't want to hear the details..." he cleared his throught. "Then as time went on it became clear she was...pregnant. She said it was you...but I didn't believe it...the time just didn't feel right... And six weeks later...they took her to the hospital. I went with her of course, wanted to be there in case it really was mine...though I have to tell you I was scarred out of my wits! I wanted a kid like I wanted the flu, but I couldn't just leave the thing..."
I took my knees in closer and looked to the ground 'sometimes...I wish you had...'
"So I thought, if it turned out mine...I might as well be there. And so however manny hours later it was the doctors came back...and told me she was dead."
My eyes widened 'It was...my fault...' I thought and a few tears strarted to swell up.
"...how did it happen. What did the doctors say?" Pegasus asked.
"They never told you?"
"no." Pegasus said shortly.
Tears came down faster when I heard him. Pegasus just sounded so...broken. 'I'm so sorry...'
"Well...they said it was whatever she had, Foxu had it too...only worse. According to them the desiese is triggered by great physical or emotinal trauma. With her it was only a light case...they said straying from anything taxing would pretty mush leave it dorment...she didn't even know she had it. But of course with Foxu...it was supposed to be fatal... The DNA tests were never conclusive...and loosing your wife, and having a screwed up kid! I mean thats just a little too much if you ask me!" He concluded.
"I never did!" Pegasus flarred up "You had no right to take her. Shes my daughter!" He barked at Techie with as much anger as was in him.
I stopped. everything. I couldnt breathe.
The door flew open and I fagely heard Pegasus yell something else.
Pegasus stopped. everything was quiet. Breath slowly came back. It was slow and relaxed, I just looked blankly forward. It felt like it was too much too ask just to breath.
I felt Pegasus slowly wrap his arms around me. I tried to say something, but even I wasn't sure what. I clossed my eyes, and hichupped just as the tears came back. I felt him sit down beside me, sit me in his lap, and rest my head on his chest. He held me close with one hand, and with the other he wiped away some of the tears. I sniffled, and opened my eyes a little to look up at Pegasus. He looked down at me with care and concern. I wrapped my arms around him and pulled myself as close as I could, and burried my head into his chest.
"please.." I hiccuped "make it better..." I said as more tears started to fall.
He kissed me on the forehead "everything going to be okay." he whispered into my ear. As if it was our little secret.
E3E3E3E3E3
When I woke up I groaned slightly, I had expected to do alone. Like when Seto told me just how sick I was, but instead I felt two arms wrap around me. I was a bit startled and looked up to see Pegasus's worried face looking down at me.
"Are y-" he started, but I quickly cut him off.
I put my hand to his face "Are you really, still here?" I asked in disbelief.
A little smile shone on his face "Of course..I just...didn't want to let go..." he said, as he took his hand and pushed up on my chin to close my mouth.
I nervously giggled and raised my hands to my mouth "I don't do that often...really..." I said, trying to hide my blush.
He smiled, and brushed away my hands and chuckled as he saw just how red I was. "I don't mind."
"don't laugh!" I pounted.
He drew me closer in his arms "I'm sorry, can I make it up to you?" he asked.
As he wraped his arms tighter arond me to draw me closer I could just see over them - to the night stand where the Dagger was sitting. I looked up to him "There is one thing..."
He smile quickly dropped as he saw the worry in my eyes. He brushed a tear from one as he asked "what is it?"
"I need to find someone..."
E3E3E3E3E3
I heard a few distance words as the world hazed back into view. Then out of no where came a sharp kick to my side. The force rolled me over as I grunted in protest. I covered my face as the bright light came as a shock.
"Just another drunk!" A burly man called out from over me. From where he was standing he must've been the one who kicked me.
I quickly cleared my thoughts, and stood upright starring daggers at the man. "What did you call me?" I barked.
The man snickered. "Don't be so testy! We get a lotta drunks back here!" he said and laughed.
I narrowed my eyes and squezed my hand into a tigh fist. The man came crashing to the ground as my fist cracked into his skull. I could hear his slight moan of pain as he passed out. I spat and rubbed my hand.
"Thats what you get for calling me drunk..." I hissed as I left the scene.
It felt hard walking home - alone. I couldn't ake heads nor tails about what had happened last night, and for some reason I had a horrid headach. I rubbed my throbbing head as I retrieve my cell phone from my pocket. Swiftly browsing through the speed dial I came across a number I had rarely, if ever, used - the police. 'The police? I'd poly have better luck with renegade circus clowns...but I don't know who else to call...' I though and sighed as I clicked the call button.
I finished the call and shoved the phone back into my pocket as the hotel came into view. I slowly opened the door and surveyed the room. No one was there. 'I was half hoping he'd be here...it'd make more sence then...whatever it was that happened...' I though as I walked inside.
It seemed so desolate, so still. It had been so long since I'd been alone in that room, it just felt wrong without him. I shut the door behind me, and stumbled back onto it. I could feel tears sweeling up from within me, I tried to fight it as it got harder and harder to breath. Finnally my legs gave way and I fell to the floor sobing. 'He can't be gone...not like that...' I thought as the tears kept streaming by. 'What was that? It was just there...then gone...' I cleaned off a few tears, but more came streaming down. I threw my head back against the door in defeat. 'I don't think I've cried this hard since Seto said I was goin to die...', "I wish I would..." I cried out and clenched my eyes clossed causing a sudden flood of tears. "Its..its ll my fault...why didn't I do anything!?!?" I yelled out as I pressed my palm to my forehead and weaved my fingers into my hair. "its...its...all my fault..."
A harsh knock came to the door. I groaned and quickly covered my ears with my hands. "Why can't anyone just leave me alone today?!?!" I quietly moaned as the knock came again.
"Hello?" Came a voice from the outside.
I had never heard this voice before...I didn't think it was from the hotel. It was a hard voice with no emotion to it. 'I'm not in the mood for this...' I thought to myself. "Go away!" I yelled to whom ever was at the door.
"Ms. Techie? Is that you?" came the voice again.
"I said leave me alone!!!"
"I'm from Industrial Illusions...you need to come with me. Its very important."
'Industrial ilusions?!?' I though as my heart raced 'They...no! How could they know? They must be here because of my brake in...but...but how could they know, how could they find me?!?!?' I tried to get up, but didn't make any headway as a harsh cough came up my through. I covered my mouth and sniveled slightly. 'I've got to get out of here...'
"Are you alright? Please miss, its very important you come with me."
I took a deep breath, trying to collect my thoughts. 'Okay, okay...I just gotta stall him till I can find some way out...' I though "Um...what exactly is so important?" I said as clearly as I could as I finally scambled to my feet.
"Uhh...I'm really not supposed to say..."
'Ooooh...now I'm SURE you're not trying to bust me! Jeeze...he could've at least made something up!' I thought as I scanned the room for an exit. The only thing I found was a single window. "I'm not going any where with you if you can't even tell my why!" I said trying to buy more time as I came up to the window.
"I can't tell you. And I really must insist that you come with me."
'Man, what hack wrote his lines?' I thought as I got in view of the outside. I scanned down the building, but there was nothing but a sheer drop 'That is SO wrong!!! Havn't Egyptians ever heard of FIRE ESCAPES?!?!? SERIOSLY! If the building was on fire you'd have to be freaking spiderman to get out!!!' I thought as I faced the dizzying drop. 'Okay...gotta cool down...well...at least there isn't a squad of police or something..hey! Maybie theres only that one guy waiting...I could take only one...' I thought spinning around to the clossed door.
"Please, no harm will come to you."
'Yea...just my best days behind bars...' I thought sticking my tounge out at the door. 'Here goes nothing...' I thought as I put my hand to the nob. I clossed my eyes for one monent and turned to look at the room one last time. It had been my home for so long now... 'it had been our home...' I thought and bit my lip. A small glint of light flicked near the bed, and I walked over to it. On the dresser I found the dagger I had fought with Jovan over. I took it and held it to my chest. 'Jovan...where did you go?' I thought as a nother tear found its way down my cheek.
"Please miss!"
'Hes way too persistent!' I thought "Fine! I'm comming! Keep you shirt on..." I angrily yelled through the door. I quickly hid the dagger under my clothes, and brushed off any remaining tears before opening the door.
As I looked upon those standing out side an overwheling feeling of dread came over me. There were a total of three men standing there. The first was a sickingly ordinary suit, with the sole exeption of dusty green hair. The two men behind him were most clearly hired goons, they boasted the muscle - and more importantly the firearms. "Please, come with me." said the first man holding out his hand in invitation.
'ooooh badness. Well, at least I get to go knowing they thought I was a threat! Sidearms and person escrt for a hacker? That gotta be big...heres hoping I get out before pigs start sprouting wings...' I thought. I scoffed at his invitation. "I don't like this. I want to know where your taking me." I said coldly.
The man seemed somewhat dispointed in my behaivor. "I can't tell you. But you'll find out soon enough. Now, please,come with me."
"Like I have a choice." I hissed as I exited the room.
The man made room, and began walking my out of the hotel "There only here for your protection"
"Ooooh, I'm soooo sure!" I said, the sarcasm dripping from every word.
It wasn't long till he led me out the hotel and onto the strrets, where we soon caught up with a copter in waiting. 'snazy...but doesn't make a lot of sence...they shouldn't even go to the trouble...unless their planning on throwing my out once we get over the ocean...' I thought and sighed 'so what if they do...no one will know...let alone care...'
We boarded onto to the copter, which was surprizingly roomy...which didn't make me feel any better. Just as everyone sat down the first man retrieved a cell phone with which he preceded to call someone. I couldn't help but listen in. The two goons resembled lamp posts more then actual people, and there wasn't any one else one the copter...no witnesses I suppose. It sounded to me as if he was calling his boss to confirm everything.
The trip seemed to grow quiter by the seccond. It felt akward to breath, but the harder I tried to keep quit the louder it sounded. I was next to the window though. At least I could avade eye contact by peering out the window. But there wasn't much to see. Just water, water, and yet more water.
The quitness droned on as the sun began to disipate behind the waves. I felt my eyelids go down with it as leaned over the arm rest and set my head against the glass of the window.
E3E3E3E3E3
I slowly awoke to something I hadn't expected - a soft bed. For a moment I enjoyed the cloud-like matress and soft, fluffy covers. Untill a though poped into my head 'I was out of it...they could've done ANYTHING' I thought and my eyes shot open in horror. I quickly flung ff the covers with such force I ended up hitting the floor. "ooww..." I whimpered as I got to my feet.
I overlooked the entire room, including myself. The bed looked empty enough, and I was wearing my same clothes - minus one dagger. I soon found it sitting peacefully on the night stand. I swiftly took it into my hand and sat on the bed.
I traced over the body of the dagger nerviously. 'Maybie it just fell out...or a metal detector...or...it could've been pn of a million innocent things...' I thought to myself as I kept fiddling with it when I heard the door creek.
I squezed the dagger tightly in my hand as I heard the noise. The dagger dug deep into my palm and I yelped out in pain, closing my eyes tightly as a few tears fell.
Who ever had come in was soon at my side with one arm across my back resting on my shoulder, and the other under my clenched hands.
"Let me see..." He soothed, with a gentle yet passionate voice.
It felt very odd - being in someone arms again. But this...it was different from when I was with Jovan. It felt like love...but of a different kind, though I had no idea what. If something like this had happened before Jovan I would've pushed him away for even being near me, but it felt...good just to be near someone - someone warm and loving...like Jovan... I slowly opened up my hands, and winced as I did so - letting loose a few more tears in the process.
He moved his hand from my shoulder and onto my head as I winced. It was so soft I barely noticed. He stroked my hair as he gently took the dagger from my hand, releasing the wound to th air. I snifled as it felt worse exposed. He carefully placed the dagger back on the nightstand without leaving my side. When he settled back down on the bed he drew my closer with the hand he had on my head, and with the otherhe gently rubbed the back of my hands.
"I'm so sorry..I should've known better..." He said quitly and gently rested his head atop mine. A few strands of silvery hair flew down over my face, but he swiftly moved them out of the way.
Something about them seemed familiar 'silver hair...' I thought, trying to make what sence I could of what was happening. I took a look at the dagger sitting on the night stand it was dripping blood onto the hardwood 'why did he just leave it there...it could stain or scratch...or something' I thought 'why is any of this happening anyway? I thought I was busted...none of this makes sence...I don't even know this guy...'
"who...are you?" I finally asked.
He took a moment, then stroked my hair and responded "You can call me Max." but something about how he said it felt strained...like he wanted me to call him something...different.
"Max..." I mumbled trying to put the pieces together. I practically jumped as I stumbled on the answer 'People from Industrial Illusions...silver hair...max!! This...this guy is Pegasus!! THE Pegasus! The totall nut ball PEGASUS! I'm dead...mercy I am so dead...' My heart raced as every bit of critisism and rumor about him surfaced in my mind, one of the few people who could outright out power me was sitting right next to me...CODLING ME??!?!
I quickly pushed away, leaving a clear crimson hand print on his already red suit. When I turned I could see him in full view. He looked as shocked as I was...though I could only see his one eye...the other was covered with his thick locks, though I could make out something of a patch behind the silver tresses.
I took a few steps back, and as I did his face turned from shock to concern. "whats wrong?" He asked.
My heart felt like it was racing faster and faster 'what wrong?!?! Oh, besides the fact that I may be six feet under tomarow, nothing. nothing at all. Or..worse..' I thought starring directly at him. "You..your..." I trailed off reapeating the words over and over, quiter each time.
He stood up with a dismayed look, that wanted me to jump out of my skin and never stop running, but I felt I couldn't move... "I'm Maximillion Pegasus." he said calmly. He took a few steps closer and put his arm over my shoulder.
I whimpered a little, but still couldn't move. He raised his other hand to my chin and pushed up to close it. A small hint of red flashed on my face as he did so. He then sighed and rubbed my shoulder.
"Comon, we should get something for your hand..." he said softly.
I barely nodded 'what, don't like your victims to have cuts? ...please oh please don't answer that...' I though as I bit my lip and a small tear fell.
He led me over to what must've been a kitchen where he rinsed off my hands, put some sort of medicene on my cut, and bandged it too. Then, after stroking my hair one last time he left me with the words "Be good".
I blinked as he shut the door behind him. '...what was that...all of that...luring my into a false sence of security?' I thought, and looked down at my hand. I didn't hurt that much anymore...he really did a good job fixing it. I held it in my other hand as his touch still lingered. It was such a soft touch...though I heard even stark raving lunatics could have a tender touch. A sudden chill flashed down my spine, and I swiftly shut my eyes as close as I could "I've gotta get out of here..." I said to myself.
I krept over to the door he had just left through, I nudged it over just a sliver and peeked out to see if I could see any one, I didn't see a sole. I opened the door enough so I could peek to the other side f the hall it opened into. I gave out a sigh of relief as I still didn't see any one.
I left the room behind in search of the exit. The mansion was quite expansive, but I didn't run into any servants...there used to be so manny when my father still lived with me...I was surprised Pegasus wouldn't have any, though I was gratefull for it. I always thought that Pegasus wouldn't be that different from my father...maybie a little more insane, but who was to say my father wasn't - I hadn't seen him in years. But I supose when you think of it, most of the higher-ups had something of an evil killer stereotype... I always wondered what kind of stereotype the media would pin on me...but they never found out I was here. I never could figure out how my father kept me a secret...though I know why. He didn't want to deal with me...or let the media do that for him...
I made good headway and soon found myself face-to-face with the foyer, exept one small problem. There was a goon by the door. 'maybie if I act cool he won't suspect anything...' I thought as I got collected as I could and walked calmly twards the door, but just as I got to the nob the guard spoke up. 'so close...' I thought as I looked longingly at the small metalic ball under my fingertips.
"did you get permission to go out?" he asked.
'permission? What am I - a teenager?? ...well, yes...but that doesnt mean I need permission...who does he think he is...' I thought as I felt a slight stab in my pride from his words. "Yeah, I got permission." I said looking strait at him.
He chuckled "Your a good liar, kid, but Pegasus just told me not to let you out."
I glarred at him angrily 'I'm not some stupid kid I don't have to put up with this!!' I thought. "You mean I'm a prisnor here?!?! You have no right!! Let me through!!" I yelled.
He snickered "rich kids..." he said under his breath "If ya wanna go out you gotta take it up with Mister Pegasus!"
I could've about poped him one right there. 'Oh, yea, out of the frying pan and into the fire? I'm not stupid! I'm not risking my neck for this...' I thought, and simply left the foyer without a word.
I began searching through the place. To my surprise most of the doors were locked, and nothing seemed familiar 'I really should've been paying more attention when I came through here the first time...' I thought as I wandered through the maze-like house. It felt like forever untill I heard something. It sounded like Pegasus, my head said I should run as fast as I could, but my curiosity got the better of me and I followed the sound untill I came up too a door. It was getting later in the afternoon so I could see the slight glow of light underneth it.
I slowly and carefully pressed my ear up to the door, and could just hear what he was saying. He must've been on the telephone because of how coppy it sounded.
"Hello, yes. I'm trying to get a hold of Jack Techie." he said calmly.
A fear struck me as I heard that name 'MY...my father....' I thought, then a rather odd thought doned on me 'Jack? I don't think I've ever heard his name before...I never really got that old...and what I read was always 'Mr. Techie'...funny, I always thought he'd have a big stupid German name...' I thought when Pegasus continued.
"I need to speak with him. ...in person would be better. As soon as possible. Tomarrow? yea, three would be fine. Thank you." He said, and I could hear the small click of a phone.
I pressed my ear up against the door as it got a little quiet. I could hear Pegasus sigh deeply.
"If only I didn't have to go to this meeting...why couldn't I be busy some other time? I should be there for Foxu...I wonder if she even knows whats going on...why did she do that...I've thought over it a million times! I just don't know what went wrong...it was like she was scarred of me..." he trailed off, and sighed again "I'm going to be late...better get moving..."
I looked down to the floor 'but...arn't I suposed to be scared?' I thought, then fully realizing he was going to get out soon I quickly got to my feet, and ran down the hall. I tried all the doors, but the wouldn't budge. That is, untill one. I quickly flung open the door and looked inside. It was the same room I had woken up too, my Dagger was still on the table. I sighed in relief and shut the door behind me.
I walked into the room and flopped on the bed. I curled up in the blankets and laid facing the empty half of the bed. I gave a little whimper and burried my head in the pillow. "Why do things happen all at once...if Jovan was here..." I sniffled "everything would be better..." I said as tears started to fall onto my pillow.
E3E3E3E3E3
I woke up to feel a soft touch caressing the side of my face. I quickly remembered the feeling and tried to act as if I was still sleeping. "I wish you were awake..." he started "I wish I knew what I did wrong...I've only just begun and already I've messed up..." He said softly. He sighed, he was probably hoping I would've waken up by now. He leaned down and whispered into my ear "I wish I knew sooner...Things would have been different. I promise..." He then moved up and kised me on the forehead, and left my bed side. "Sleep well..."
As I heard the door shut I opened my eyes, and looked over to it "what does all that mean...what do you know that I don't..." I said quietly, and reached up to my forehead. "what does all this mean..." I sighed, and went back to bed.
I whiped what tears remained from my eyes and sat up in bed. I felt really tired and soon flopped back down. I groaned slightly as I felt like I'd been hit like a truck 'Its not fair...I fell so drained...mentally physically...' I though and whimpered. I slowly turned around to get a look at the night stand where I found a small clock bleeping "2:00" at me. 'Two o'clock? ...maybie it was later then I thought when I went to bed...'
I then looked lower to see the Dagger sitting on the stand. I reached my hand up to it. I was a little started when I first touched the blade - the blood was as wet as it was when it cut my the other day.
I lifted my bangaged hand out to see that the blood had soaked through a lot of the bandage, and I could see the red. I looked at the dagger again 'shouldn't it be...just a little bit dryer now...' I thought, then lifted my bandaged hand up to the Dagger, and noticed the small ruby sparkle as my palm crossed over it.
I shook my head and looked again. This time the ruby was normal. I touched it with other hand, and nothing happened. 'I wonder why it did that...this thing alwyas seemed a little...creepy. But whenever I'm near it...I don't know why, but it fells like I'm closer to Jovan...' I thought, and laid my hand on the handle 'But now...he just seems so...distant...' I sighed... 'If theres any way you can hear me...please...' "Please be okay Jovan...I miss you so much...I love you..." I whisped.
I clossed my eyes tightly, and a few drops fell. I brushed them away from my face, and leaned back into the bed. I sighed deeply as I looked at the clock, and Dagger each sitting so motionless on the night stand. I bit my lip 'why is it...I spent so much time alone before...but now...it feels like theres something missing. That I'm not all here...Oh, please come back safe Jovan...' I thought.
I rubbed my eyes as they began to grow heavy 'maybie i'll feel stronger soon...but I want to be there at three...maybie I'll finnally know whats going on....' I thought, then yawned and went back to sleep.
I was awake off, and on untill I some noises comming from out side my room. I rubbed my eyes, and yawned. I still felt tired, but I must;ve slept some of it off, because I wasn't as tired as before.
I snuck out of bed and listened against the door. The sounds were getting louder, I could just make out Pegasus's voice, and someone else. It took me a longer to realize it was my father's voice. It sounded different from what I remember...but maybie it was just his "work voice" I noticed Pegasus had changed in tone as well. I heard a door shut and the voices became muffled.
'They must be in his office! Better check if the cost is clear...' I thought as I opened my door, and peeked out. There was no one in sight. I creeped out and quietly shut my dorr, and made my way to where the voices where the loudest. It was in front of the same door as yestarday.
They were talking louder then Pegasus was te day before, so I didn't have to get so close to the door. Instead I sat down and leaned up against the wall next to the door as they continued to talk.
"Thats all well and good Mr. Techie, but thats hardly why I called you here today." Pegasus said
"Yes, I know...I heard. Are you sure those were the results?" My father asked.
"Yes, positive. I had them checked."
"I...I see...well then... If I may ask, how exactly did you come across the...er...results..." Jack replied. He seemed somewhat anxious trying to evade whatever it was Pegasus wanted.
"A Doctor in Cairo ran them, tried to keep them a secret, but apperently failed. Turned out he had something of a record for that sort of thing..."
'A doctor in Cairo?? A record?? Could it be that guy I hired...but it couldn't be...even so...where would Pegasus care if I was sick or not...this still makes no sence.' I thought as they continued.
"Oh, yea...I saw that in the papers...said he had things on lots of people...celebrities mostly...the results did say she was cured...right?" My father asked, he still seemed so nervious! But why...
"Yes...at least some good news..." Pegasus sort of trailed off, almost sounding...bitter.
'I'm cured?!?! SOME good news? Hot dawg...thats some REALLY good news! I guess my privacy is blown...but at least I know! Wow...its about time something good happened...' I thought.
"And...Cairo, thats where you found her right? My...I wonder what she was doing all the way over there! Heh...kids can sure get around these days...not when I wa-" He was about to ramble on, but Pegasus stopped him.
"You know what I want to hear." Pegasus said sternly.
Techie gulped "yes...I know...I kinda lost track when she was just a little thing....always had a temper though..."
"Start from the very beginning. How did you get her."
'what...'get me.' am I some sort of door prize? What is he getting at...' I thought.
Techie cleared his throut "Yes...I knew you would...but I should warn you, your not going to like it. It might be best if things go unsaid..." He said in his last attempt to sway Pegasus.
"Tell me everything."
"It all started...on the missionary trip..." Techie started.
'I almost burst out laughing "Mr. Techie missionary extradinaire!!" Oooooh, this is good! My dad, on a missionary trip?!?! I wish I brought a tape recorder...this could make some GREAT black mail someday...' I thought mentaly giggling.
"Thats when I saw her...I can remember it like yestarday. She was the prettiest little thing, and blonde to boot. I've always said you can never go wrong with blonde." He chuckled then continued "Anyway...I didn't know much about her then...if I had known she was married I wouldn't have done it...but at the time se was ringless, claimed to have 'gotten it re-sized' ha! She always did seem too innocent..."
I really didn't like where this was going...and my dad didn't sound at all ashamed, though I couldn've sworn I heard some cursing from Pegasus 'ah...dad...I guess some of that name calling when I was younger was...justified...no wonder why I never knew my mother...'
"It was pretty cold out...so I suggested we all go out and get a little 'warmed up'" Techie continued "I swear she must've never touched a bottle in her whole life! It took a little coaxing, but she came around eventuallly 'one glass' she said, but one glass was more then enough! She really couldn't hold her liquor!' Techie said.
"Could you please get on with it." Pegasus growled. He sounded to me as if he was ready to strangle Techie.
Techie chuckled, it made me feel sick inside 'Why do I have to be related to him? Out of everyone in the world...' I thought, wanting to hide even though no one could see me.
"I told you, you wouldn't like it!" he said "But that was pretty much it...she was completely put of it, and didn't know what she was doing! But I'm sure you don't want to hear the details..." he cleared his throught. "Then as time went on it became clear she was...pregnant. She said it was you...but I didn't believe it...the time just didn't feel right... And six weeks later...they took her to the hospital. I went with her of course, wanted to be there in case it really was mine...though I have to tell you I was scarred out of my wits! I wanted a kid like I wanted the flu, but I couldn't just leave the thing..."
I took my knees in closer and looked to the ground 'sometimes...I wish you had...'
"So I thought, if it turned out mine...I might as well be there. And so however manny hours later it was the doctors came back...and told me she was dead."
My eyes widened 'It was...my fault...' I thought and a few tears strarted to swell up.
"...how did it happen. What did the doctors say?" Pegasus asked.
"They never told you?"
"no." Pegasus said shortly.
Tears came down faster when I heard him. Pegasus just sounded so...broken. 'I'm so sorry...'
"Well...they said it was whatever she had, Foxu had it too...only worse. According to them the desiese is triggered by great physical or emotinal trauma. With her it was only a light case...they said straying from anything taxing would pretty mush leave it dorment...she didn't even know she had it. But of course with Foxu...it was supposed to be fatal... The DNA tests were never conclusive...and loosing your wife, and having a screwed up kid! I mean thats just a little too much if you ask me!" He concluded.
"I never did!" Pegasus flarred up "You had no right to take her. Shes my daughter!" He barked at Techie with as much anger as was in him.
I stopped. everything. I couldnt breathe.
The door flew open and I fagely heard Pegasus yell something else.
Pegasus stopped. everything was quiet. Breath slowly came back. It was slow and relaxed, I just looked blankly forward. It felt like it was too much too ask just to breath.
I felt Pegasus slowly wrap his arms around me. I tried to say something, but even I wasn't sure what. I clossed my eyes, and hichupped just as the tears came back. I felt him sit down beside me, sit me in his lap, and rest my head on his chest. He held me close with one hand, and with the other he wiped away some of the tears. I sniffled, and opened my eyes a little to look up at Pegasus. He looked down at me with care and concern. I wrapped my arms around him and pulled myself as close as I could, and burried my head into his chest.
"please.." I hiccuped "make it better..." I said as more tears started to fall.
He kissed me on the forehead "everything going to be okay." he whispered into my ear. As if it was our little secret.
E3E3E3E3E3
When I woke up I groaned slightly, I had expected to do alone. Like when Seto told me just how sick I was, but instead I felt two arms wrap around me. I was a bit startled and looked up to see Pegasus's worried face looking down at me.
"Are y-" he started, but I quickly cut him off.
I put my hand to his face "Are you really, still here?" I asked in disbelief.
A little smile shone on his face "Of course..I just...didn't want to let go..." he said, as he took his hand and pushed up on my chin to close my mouth.
I nervously giggled and raised my hands to my mouth "I don't do that often...really..." I said, trying to hide my blush.
He smiled, and brushed away my hands and chuckled as he saw just how red I was. "I don't mind."
"don't laugh!" I pounted.
He drew me closer in his arms "I'm sorry, can I make it up to you?" he asked.
As he wraped his arms tighter arond me to draw me closer I could just see over them - to the night stand where the Dagger was sitting. I looked up to him "There is one thing..."
He smile quickly dropped as he saw the worry in my eyes. He brushed a tear from one as he asked "what is it?"
"I need to find someone..."
E3E3E3E3E3