(((.-)) Zel |||^.^||| Xelloss |{{^.^}}| Lina |((.^)|| Gourry ((^.^)) Amelia |))-.-((| Val
Chapter 45
THE SLAYERS
Wednesday
"Where the bloody, freaking hell were you guys?!"
Lina was furious. Zel, Xelloss, and Val were no-shows the day before, and they hadn't answered her phone calls either. They were all standing in front of the lockers before first period, and when Lina had spotted them, a look of sublime relief came over her face—quickly replaced by the fiery demon maw screaming at them now.
"Why weren't you in school?! Why didn't you answer my calls?! What the hell were you playing at?!" she wasn't sure whether to tear her hair out in frustration or theirs'.
Val thought it was cute. "Aw, just look how worried she wuz about us! She misses us for one day and—"
"Don't you DARE pat me on the head or you'll lose that hand!"
Gourry wasn't very pleased, either. Amelia, fresh from a stirring student council meeting, was nearly crying.
Zel looked at Xelloss. "Why are you so mad—"
"Why? Why?! WHY?!!" Lina screamed at Xelloss, and then dropped her voice to a snake-like hiss. "Because, right on the eve of the big battle, the three Metallium inmates suddenly don't show up to school. They aren't at home. They don't pick up the phone. And they didn't include me! Don't you get it? I thought that you guys were dead! I thought you'd run off to fight THEM alone, and were shot in some gutter! You were dead, and I wasn't there to help! NOW DO YOU UNDERSTAND?!"
The hurt in Gourry's eyes mirrored her sentiments. "Can't you think about our feelings once in a while?" he asked, very softly. "Lina was crying. She came over to my house—"
"That's enough of that!" Lina interrupted. "It's not about me! It's about—about—"
And then she lost it. She was on her knees in front of the lockers, face buried in her arms, massive bangs hiding her completely.
Zel had had enough of this by the time Amelia seemed ready to run crying into his arms. It was time for some Strong Zel Persona to take over. "Xelloss, you may want to hide, or at least keep quiet," he whispered to his cohort. Xelloss nodded.
"And what about OUR feelings?"
Everybody jumped.
Zel spoke again. "You haven't let us get a word in edgewise. You have no idea what happened or why. For all you know, we could have entered in the 'big battle' yesterday, and won!"
There was a gasp.
"We didn't," they looked ready to throttle him, but that wasn't new, so he went on, "but you didn't know that. Here's what happened. It was all my fault, so don't you go yelling at Val or Xelloss about this. I can take any abuse you throw at me, but first hear me out. I had us call in sick, but I really drove us down to the beach. No, Lina, don't choke me, and I KNEW you weren't actually sitting on the ground crying—"
"Of course not! I was merely regaining my composure!"
"Great. Anyway, I drove us down to the beach, and we played in the sand—"
"We built a fort! Out of logs! I wonder if any of it is left? No, I think we broke it up pretty good in our battle. Val was an evil dragon half-breed, Zel was…"
"Leave me out of this…" Zel started to say.
"…a shaman swordsman and I was a tricky demon and he pretended to fight over… oof!
"I told you to be quiet," Zel reminded him.
Val had planted a punch into Xelloss' stomach, not too hard, but he didn't pull it either. It was Val's turn, now. "We ate lunch, and harassed the wildlife in the tide-pools and dragged Xelly's sorry ass out of the one he fell in…"
"Lina, we just acted like kids. Irresponsible kids, yes, that is exactly the word I wanted, thank you for screaming it at me. Irresponsible kids. How much longer can we be irresponsible kids? I've never—anyway, after this week…I just wanted to have fun, Lina. I'm sorry we didn't tell you. I'm sorry we didn't bring all of you guys, it would have been great."
Gourry could sense Zel's aura of strength failing fast, daunted by the ominous cloud over their immediate future. "Yeah, maybe next weekend, when it's all over, we'll all go to the beach. I could take us in the truck," he offered.
Thank you, Gourry, my savior! Your animal instincts have saved me once again! Zel told him with a glance.
Wasn't nothing. Any time Gourry smiled back.
Lina was silent. Zel's impertinent words were being mulled over like fresh cider in her brain. Xelloss thought this the perfect time to lay it on a bit thicker.
"Here Lina, we have something for you," Xelloss smiled in attempt to mollify her somewhat.
She gave him all of her attention. He grinned, dove into his backpack, and pulled out a book-shaped package. "Here…"
Curious, she nabbed the package and ripped off the paper wrapper. Zel's drawing of her, all framed…
BUZZZZZZZZZZZ!
There was no more time for further discussion. They reluctantly scattered to their classes.
Passing notes… A time-tested way to converse in the classroom in semi-secret. Zel, Filia, Lina, and Xelloss killed at least one trees-worth of paper in English composition alone. At first the teacher passed it off as 'cute', since that 'poor, lonely, boy Zelgadiss' was included. For him alone she would allow the intricate love-notes to pass without censure. She hoped that lovely girl, Filia, was interested in him. She sighed, it reminded her of that fairytale, Beauty and the Beast.
"So how much of our plans should we share with the others? –Filia"
"Whatever we need to! –Lina"
"Leave Sylphiel and Amelia out of this. -- Zel"
"AMELIA! She's been setting up the whole recording studio meeting! —Lina"
"Zelgadiss is right. The fewer the better. – X"
"They will only get in the way. –Zel"
"You cold-hearted bastard, Zel! She's had her heart set on going! —Lina"
"He's afraid he'll be too distracted. Hee, Hee." – Filia"
"That's right! We need to focus. You aren't going either, Filly-poo. – X"
"Go to hell, Xellykins! —Filia"
"Zel! I am sooo going with you! —Filia"
"No. Lina, Gourry, Me, Xelloss. –Zel"
Filia gazed at Zelgadiss with misty blue eyes and handed him a note. The teacher sighed, "It's too beautiful to witness… I'll even put up with those other two loud-mouthed kids for…them…"
"I will soooo embarrass you in front of soooo many people if you don't change your attitude, Mr. Attitude! P.S. And you KNOW I can!" -- Filia"
Zel blanched, and then blushed as fear then an over-active imagination kicked in. He wrote furiously.
"No! It's important that you do something else for us! You and Val have an important job too, just in another place. It's dangerous, too, if that's what you're after. —Zel"
The teacher smiled smugly, "I'd love to see what she wrote to get that reaction from the young man. Her usual writing is so…impassioned."
"So, how am I to find this place? You know where I'm going, don't you? – Lina"
"Yes. This is not the time to pass that info, Lina. How did you like Cyberia? I'd like to go again, would you? – X"
"Cyberia? Oh, yeah. Better than the place it used to be. If Zel weren't such a stick-in-the-mud we could all go this… well, soon. –Lina"
"We'll go in April then. –X"
"Why me and VAL! Why isn't he going with you? Don't you need a thug? —Filia"
"No. You'll need protection. Why is the teacher smiling? Did I miss something in the lecture? –Zel"
"Lecture? Gods, Zel, you're new at this aren't you? It's silent reading time. You are SUCH A NERD, you know that, don't you? – Filia"
"I have it down in black and white… make that purple and white. Isn't that Xelly's purple pen? – Zel"
Zel smiled and waved Filia's note at her. The teacher nearly wept with joy, "Yes, YES!"
"Ask Filia to trim your bangs. You're bugging me with the constant messing with them you're doing. – Lina"
"As you wish… could you ask her for me? I'm afraid. —X"
"And YOU are gonna take on GAAV? Gimme a break! You faint at the sight of blood and are afraid of a cheerleader! —Lina"
"Not always!!!!! And she's very scary with scissors in her hand and a gleam in her eye—X"
"So what's with all that conditioning stuff? Shouldn't you be all past the blood thing by now? –Lina"
"I didn't tell them. I wouldn't have gotten the assignment. There isn't much call for hitmen who faint. And there aren't enough shrinks in Seyruun to cure me anyway. So, I'm good at keeping secrets. —X"
"They don't seem the forgiving type. What if Zelas gives away your little secret… tells them you lied? —Lina"
"Then I'm dead meat, or just plain dead. –X"
"Filia… offer to trim his hair before I chop off his hand. —Lina"
"I'll give you a good-luck trim at band practice…you going to be there? – Filia"
"Wouldn't miss the feel of your hands in my hair for any price! – X"
The bell rang, and the classroom emptied.
The week before spring break was punctuated with tests in nearly every class. Val had to make up one he'd missed due to his romp at the beach, though Zel and Xelloss were unfairly (he thought) spared the torture. That left Filia with no one to play with at lunch for two days in a row (Monday she stayed home and Tuesday the boys were at play). Actually, she'd been hoping to be able to talk with Val, about the clan and his possible place there. The way he'd behaved during the delivery was so promising, it made her think that maybe he was born to be one of them, and with just a little nudge in the right direction, he could become someone her mother would truly approve of…
Xelloss was nervous and hardly ate his pizza slice.
"Before that gets any colder, ah…" Gourry hinted from across the table.
"What?" Xelloss jumped. "Oh, that, take it."
"What's your problem?" Filia asked in a bored tone.
"Who me?" Xelloss tried to pull off 'casual' but only managed to pull off 'klutz' by knocking over Zel's bottle of juice.
Ever since Xelloss had come home with those lilac bruises, Zel hadn't been quite in the mood to yell at him. So, he simply stood up, saying, "I'll go rob the lunch-line of some napkins…"
"Yes, geek-head!" Filia said, pounding Xelloss on the shoulder. Only once, however, because this time she got a reaction.
"Ow!" he moaned, raising a swollen hand to his shoulder. "So violent, Filia!"
"I hardly touched you!" she insisted as she stood, circled the table, and sat beside him. To his amazement, she stretched the neck of his sweater wide enough to reveal a dark purple smudge. "You've been in a fight! Look at your hand! Zel, didn't you notice this? Is karate that rough these days?"
Xelloss removed her hand and frowned.
"It's not your concern, Filia," Zel pronounced.
Lina interrupted, " Of course it is! In a few days we'll be VERY busy and YOU, buster, are supposed to be healthy! And, YOU, Zel-bub are supposed to keep an eye on him!"
"It's okay, Lina!" Xelloss smiled. "Just the results of a little fun-at-the-beach, you see? So don't worry. Although, I'm flattered that you care," he batted his eyes engaging at Filia, who was still holding his mangled hand.
Filia dropped it like a piece of raw meat. "C…care? Like Lina said, lives could be at stake here, Chaos-kid."
"What happened to 'Xelly'? I was getting used to you calling me that," he smiled boldly. Without Val around, he was unafraid to engage in some innocent flirting to annoy the snooty girl. "But, maybe you know if there are any secret clan salves you could use to help heal this? Yes? Better than the shrine healing goop?"
Filia had a responsibility to supply her healing arts when called upon. She wondered if he knew that, and was testing her resolve, or if he were merely baiting her. "I'm sure I have something that could help. I'll bring it to band practice today."
"Hope you have a large supply," Zel muttered.
Wednesday after lunch.
Val, Filia, and Sylphiel had agreed on a T-shirt design, at last. Their decision left Filia in charge of the lettering, sticking close to the Slayers logo already in use. The overall design concept was Val's territory. Sylphiel focused on the actual silk-screening technique. Now, Val and Filia had to argue about the color selection.
"Think spring and summer, you know, light and airy," Filia said with aplomb.
"Airy, fairy. Fil, no," Val said stubbornly. "Suzaku Seven, we ain't. Dark an' moody is more like us. Ya know, Lina'd puke over them pastels you're pickin' out!"
"Like, you're just insecure about your masculinity. You have to look all black and edgy to feel tough-- great globs of black. Time to branch out, Val," she snipped and tossed her blonde ponytail.
Val, sputtering in annoyance said, "I like black. Don't show dirt or nothin'. And I'm NOT in-see-cure ! You're thinkin' 'bout Zel."
"Zel wears light colors…" Filia smirked.
"Yeah, ones that blend into the walls like cee-ment-gray, saa-ge green, and dir-tee beige," Val smirked back.
Sylphiel had been listening to their amusing rancor. "Why not, you know, use different colored T-shirts but the same ink printing. You know like the guys wear darker greens and the girls wear lighter… or blues, maybe?"
Val chuckled, "You are pretty sharp today, Sylph."
"Fine. Different T-shirts, same ink… black, I suppose…" Filia sighed.
"Silver. Black outline," Val said with a playful gleam in his eyes.
"SILVER?" Filia said, bewildered. "Where do you think we'll get our hands on that stuff? Not at school!"
"I'll go ask. Teacher might know an art store," Val answered seriously and stalked off in search of the art teacher.
Sylphiel watched him go, then asked, "So, how's your little brother?"
"More of a pain than HIM," Filia smiled.
"Hmmm, I think he's so cute when you two argue. He tries to be so cool, but he's really smart and… emotional. I think he's, ya know, happier now that he's living with Xelly and Zel," Sylphiel giggled.
"Being around Zel makes him happy?" Filia said, ignoring the 'cute' comment. "That's pretty funny. Zel could bring down a puppy, and you know I love Zel too, but… I'm telling Amelia to give up on the guy. She's getting really discouraged, you know. And if nutzo Xelly doesn't send them both to their graves, then… I don't know, but… all I've noticed is that Val's cleaner, and he's at school on time in the morning—probably Zel's influence, I'll give you that one. "
Filia noticed a tiny reaction from Sylphiel that she took as 'you just mentioned a person of interest', and so she decided to test the waters a bit, " So how is the nutcase at the shrine these days?"
"He's like sooo different there. He's quiet and so smart. I don't know anyone as smart as him. No, I mean it! He memorized everything already and it's only been a month or so! He's going to receive admittance into full priesthood in April with LAST year's novices! And don't give me that look, Filia Ul Copt!"
Filia grinned, "Sylphiel… not another crush…"
Sylphiel rushed on before Filia could get started, "So… you've been ignoring Val, for awhile. Are you still thinking about Allen?"
"That was really random, Sylphie! Him? Well, I was…it was nice to be around some class for a change. He does look good on a horse too! Hell, Allen always looks good, but… I'm not ready for a boyfriend like him, I guess. Shhh… Val's coming back."
Filia turned toward the tall, green-haired punk, her friend, fellow band member, and nemesis at times. "So?"
Val smiled smugly, "We can get sil-va at the university art store. Okay with the babes then?"
"Yeah, sure. Silver, whatever," Filia drawled in an attempt to appear bored.
"I could pick it up tonight, if Sylph here could give me a lift downtown after the practice tonight. Whaddya say?" Val looked at Sylphiel for an answer.
"It's only a block from the shrine, no trouble," Sylphiel nodded.
Val picked up the design and looked it over, "Good. We still have time to get this on the screen?"
Sylphiel nodded and began to transfer the paper drawing to the silk while Filia did the same for the lettering on a different screen.
"I'll pick up some T-shirts, then, at the mall, if I can get my dad to drive me to the mall tonight. He usually gets baby duty at night, but…I need daddy time too," Filia complained.
"The Mall?" Val snorted. "Shit, Filia that place is such a rip-off!"
"Oh? And I suppose you know a better place? And I mean for NEW shirts, not re-sale crap!" Filia snapped back.
"Yeah I do. It's downtown too, near the art place we're goin' to. It's an OUT-LET store," Val smirked at his superior network of knowledge.
"Sylphiel, you'd better go with him or we'll be letting HIM pick the colors!" Filia whined.
"I…I can't. My father won't let me," she said gently and looked away.
Val did the math, "He's a smart dude. It might damage your re-pu-ta-tion to be seen around town with…me… alone. So, la-dies, you're just gonna havta trust my un-re-fined taste again!" he laughed hard enough to rattle some chains.
"NO WAY!" Filia gasped. "There is no way that I'll let you do that alone. I'll go along… I'll catch Zel later. He mentioned stopping by the dojo after practice tonight so maybe he can give me a ride home. I bet Lina will be interested too… I don't know, but I'll think of something. Wait for me by your locker, okay Sylphiel? After school."
"We're done at the dojo late, and then I promised him to…" Zel began.
"We?" Filia asked.
"Xelloss and me. WE," Zel answered, raising an eyebrow in question.
"Oh…" Filia's mood shifted to the dark side. "Well, that's just great. I need a ride back to the settlement tonight. Val's picking up t-shirts and supplies and we can't leave him to do it alone. The Gods only know what awful stuff he'll pick out."
Zel imagined pink tanks with hearts, the last tops he knew Filia must have picked out, "Not as bad as… All right, but we have a stop or two to make first. Val knows where it is, so meet us at the dojo at eight o'clock on the dot, or walk."
Band practice started with some tunes. Just playing together and singing for the joy of music. After and hour they took a water break and Xelloss stood up to speak. "I won't be at school tomorrow or Friday so I wanted to say a few things." He paused dramatically before continuing. "First, the danger we are facing is real and eminent. Second, anyone unable to go through with whatever challenges we face, please say so now."
He paused and caught each of his friends' eyes with his own deadly serious ones. "Good. Now Gaav is said to hang out in and around Atlas City. That's where we're headed."
Lina added, "Yeah, Luna has told me to find some shrine in the mountains there to collect the 'special evidence', but I don't know much else."
Xelloss nodded, "We'll meet at this restaurant in Ridkou Village outside of Atlas City. I'll have directions by then."
Amelia spoke up, "Our appointment is for Monday, no… Wednesday now at Macross Studios. We don't record yet. We're just going to check out the place and equipment and meet the technicians for a later recording date. No matter what, I plan to make that with Lina, Gourry, you and Zel, right?"
"Everything will be over by then, I hope, Amelia," Xelloss smiled faintly.
"And Daddy understands, but I need to get back after that for the spring shrine celebrations…you do too, don't you Xelloss?" she asked anxiously.
"Yes, I plan on it, but Amelia, I don't know what will happen to me. It all depends on how well we all pull this off. Sylphiel, where will you be?"
"Shrine duties, both here and in Sairaag. My father's ready if Gaav comes this way, he told me to tell you that, you know…"
Xelloss smiled, "Thank him for me. Filia? Sounds like you will have your hands full at the settlement."
Filia nodded, "There are so many spring activities and if Val agrees to come and baby-sit…"
"I ain't got no invitation…an' I gotta work anyways," Val mumbled.
"Val will be called upon to ensure Milgasia's cooperation in either locating or extracting the hidden data. What Luna's got and Milgasia has hidden, only Lina is being entrusted with…not me, of course," Xelloss smiled.
"That's dangerous for Lina," Val growled.
"That's what Zel and me are for!" Gourry assured him.
"Amelia will be endangered as well. I hope you've taken that into consideration, Xelloss! I still say she should have her father drive her up separately Monday morning after…" Zel said sharply.
"Yeah… I know, Zelgadiss," Xelloss waved a hand. "But, you never know what important role each of us may be called upon to play."
Zel didn't like to be dismissed so casually. "So, let me get this timing straight."
Xelloss nodded, "You'll leave Friday after school and get to the Ridkou restaurant for dinner. I'll meet you there, where we'll proceed together on to find the shrine Luna suggests. By that time I will have a better idea where we're going and when we should expect to run into Gaav. Lina, you will wear the amplifiers? Good. Gourry, your sword? Good. Zelgadiss?"
"My sword and…that other thing, even if I have to steal it…I'll have it ready," he nodded grimly.
"Val? This is for you. Yes, your very own cellphone and its programmed for me, Zelgadiss, McGywn, Dr. Adams, and the rest of the team. Test it out later, okay?"
Ring, ring!
Zelgadiss answered his phone, "Hi Val, Bye Val." Click!
Ring, ring!
Xelloss answered his phone, "Hi Val, Bye Val." Click!
Val was laughing, "Hey, dudes, another toy!"
Zel crossed his arms and sighed, "So…"
Lina interrupted, "So this is our last practice for a while, eh? I have a song to work out with Val and Zel then."
Xelloss had walked over to where Filia sat and knelt beside her, looking expectantly.
"What do you want?" Filia asked grudgingly. "Oh, yeah, the settlement salve. I always carry some. I'd just give it to you but… part of the treatment is the application."
Xelloss gave her a confused look, "O-kaaaaay. I'll have to take off my sweater first… You know me, I don't care, but if you want more privacy, we could do this up in the loft." He hid his eyes with his bangs so as not to give away any secret emotions.
Filia was once again uncomfortable. She knew he had NO interest in her, but there was something about his tone, not to mention her mother's words. No, that 'he likes you crap' was nonsense for sure! She made up her mind. "No, I'll do it here. I'm sure as a novice you understand how…"
"Improper? That's the word, right? How improper it would be for me to have a … girl in my bedroom rubbing my bare skin. Well, I figured since it was you, it wouldn't matter!" he grinned.
Filia almost hit him with the jar of salve. How dare he insinuate that she was inconsequential and undesirable, especially since he was himself! I'll show him! I'll be the mature one here.
"Whatever. Just show me where you want this stuff already," she sniffed indignantly.
As he pulled off his top and exposed the layers of bruises over the nightmare of scars and rippling muscles, she took a sharp intake of air, which drew the attention of Amelia and Sylphiel. They had been talking about an upcoming shrine activity for spring, which included the mayor's daughter.
"Oh, Gods… Xelly you guys play hard, but not this hard!" Filia managed to say through her constricted throat.
Xelloss shook his head, "That's right, Filly… Vally and Zelgadiss couldn't inflict this much damage on me with my hands tied, maybe if my feet were tied too… Ouch! … and they had baseball bats… Ach! That one's painful… Ahh! That one is too! Oh… that's very nice though…"
Val's eyes riveted onto the scene at the other end of the room. He shivered once in distaste at the dark smears that stood out garishly from Xelloss' pale chest. He watched Filia carefully massage salve onto his back, her attention was on her chores and Xelloss' head was down, long hair hiding his face. Sylphiel's face wore a mask of horror.
"Shit," Val muttered through clenched teeth.
"What?" snarled Lina, who had been delivering her rendition of how the harmony should sound. "Constructive criticism, Val, is welcome, but…"
She followed his gaze to the other side of the room. So did Zel, who knew what to expect. With lightening speed, Zel moved beside Amelia and Sylphiel and pulled them away.
"Don't ask… leave them be. He'll fall apart if you start screaming or crying. Come over here and listen to Lina's song. She needs some help," Zel murmured with an amazing amount of sensitivity and discretion. Gourry slipped between Xelloss and the others, acting as a buffer and screen.
"Ah, Xelloss?" Gourry said in a gentle voice. "I'm not doin' nothin'. I'll go up to the loft with ya and, ahhh, help Filia."
Xelloss nodded and waited for Filia to get up, then stood and led the way up the stairs. Gourry handed Xelloss the kimono that Sylphiel had painstaking hand-sewn for him. Although Xelloss had no shame and didn't seem at all to mind Filia looking at him, Gourry thought it safer… just in case.
Gourry continued talking while Xelloss stretched out onto his bed and Filia tried to find an uncompromising position to get into. "Ummm, ya got them on yer legs too… when ya bumped into the chair there, you, ahhh, looked hurt. Take off the pants and… Yep, this one needs some of that stuff. Want me ta do it, Filia?"
"Ah, thanks, Gourry, but I can do this. A clan priestess of my stature is required to administer first aid when called upon. Watch how I do this, see the massaging adds warmth and softens the skin so that it absorbs the herbs and it all works much faster. Then here, I rub like this and the muscles relax and more blood flows into the area and that speeds up healing too. Xelly, you need to turn over now. Oh… without the scars, the bruises on your thigh here ready look nasty. I want to know what's going on with all this." Filia demanded.
She was much more comfortable, now, with Gourry nearby. The talking also helped her focus on the task, rather than on the beautiful boy she was touching so intimately.
"I told you. I've undergone some training. I have a 'hitman' contract, Filia, but I'm not a thug. So… I have to be conditioned to accept a high level of punishment and still keep my secrets, you know! That's all over now. The real work is…is starting tonight," his voice faltered, revealing a certain level of trepidation about the future, which he'd been trying to conceal. He flung an arm over his eyes and lay silent and still.
"Gourry! We need a bass rhythm down here, so unless Xelloss needs you to hold his hand or anything…" Lina called.
Filia shook her head, "I'm almost done. Go on, Gourry, and thanks bunches. Remind me and I'll buy you an ice cream at lunch tomorrow!"
"Sure thing!" he smiled and pounded down the stairs.
Filia screwed the lid on her jar and squeezed Xelloss' foot, "You awake? I'm done."
Xelloss sat up slowly, "That feels soooo much better all ready. I think the shrine healers should invite you in as a guest speaker and give them a demonstration. It's much more effective than their methods. I believe I'll be able to leave tonight in top form."
"Tonight?" Filia asked, surprised at the suddenness of it all. "You're leaving tonight? Oh, I'm so … No, I won't say that. I'll miss you at school and make sure Val has his cellphone with him at all times. What else can I say or do for you?"
"Well, that ice cream deal sounded nice to me, if I come back," he smiled.
"You mean 'when' you get back. Sure, ice cream, got it… mmmph !
Xelloss drew back from his gentle, but passionate kiss to Filia's lips, grinning from ear-to-ear, "Sealed with a kiss!" He chuckled. "I always wanted to do that! Don't be so uptight! Hey, call it a dying man's last wish! 'One last kiss from all his friends!' Oh, and are you going to trim my hair too?"
Filia sat aghast a moment, then scrambled off the jiggling waterbed and to her feet. He had stolen that from her, as nice as it was… "You'd better hope you die, Xelly-bean!" she yelled. Filia grabbed the nearest thing, a pillow, and pounded him over the head repeatedly.
Xelloss had a giggling fit. It was noisy enough to bring Val charging up the stairs, followed by Lina.
"That ain't part of no cure. Get off him. Xelloss, you gonna get dressed and play drums, or what?" Val gave them both a nasty glare.
Filia dropped the pillow, straightened her clothes, and palmed the jar, "Keep someone between Xelly and you at ALL times, Lina," she said with annoyance, but ruined the effect with a quick wink and smile.
Xelloss pulled on his dojo clothes and clamored down the stairs, still smiling. He played drums and sang and enjoyed the moment with his friends.
When Lina called it a night, Xelloss had one more thing to say.
"I wanted to tell you all, so you all know… ah, let me start again. I remember my father's last words to me. He told me he was going to take a short nap and then see me later. I didn't happen. I never saw him again after that. It's made me think over the years. I've tried to live for the moment and enjoy each day. I know this has really bugged some of you (he smiled at Zel) because often it rains trouble later. I rarely have looked more than a week or two out into the future. I've avoided it, actually. The future has never been under my control and the disappointments when dreams and hopes fail (he glanced briefly at Lina) are hard to take. Life's too short. So I wanted to tell you guys something so that my last words to you include my true feelings. You have all changed my life so incredibly … I'm so happy… so lucky beyond words to have known you … so honored to call you my friends. I…I wanted to share… a little ditty, kinda a poem, I'd heard on a Laurence Welk show. Yeah, it was some repeat show and I was in the hospital, but I remember how it goes:
Yesterday was history,
Tomorrow is a mystery,
But today is a gift,
That's why we call it the present.
"It summed up me, so I wrote it on a card—yes, in purple pen ink—one for each of you. "
He pulled a tiny stack of cards out of the air (it seemed) and handed one to Amelia saying, "I love you," and kissing her gently. Then he stepped back and repeated the action to Sylphiel. Filia allowed him one more transgression, and received her card and kiss. Lina gave him a big hug first, and then closed her eyes. He might have lingered longer over her, but it may have been her imagination at work.
Xelloss grinned and giggled as he said, "Now I can die a happy man. I may die a virgin, but at least I can say I've kissed the four most beautiful girls I know!"
"How about Kiki?" Amelia asked, a blush spreading across her cheeks.
"Five!" he giggled.
"You left out Martina, didn't you?" Lina smirked.
"Six! No, five… I said the most beautiful, and I meant it!" he smiled and turned toward the guys.
He approached Gourry, who said, "You're not gonna kiss me, right?"
Xelloss shook his head and smiled slightly, "Nooo," then gave his buddy a card and a warm hug and said, "I love you."
He smiled at Val, who looked upset as he closed his hand around his card. "I love you," Xelloss said aloud and hugged his punk friend.
He turned to Zel. And stuffed his last card into Zel's shirt pocket, "I love you, little brother," he whispered and threw his arms around the kid who stood trying to control himself.
"Me too, big brother, but…" he said gently pushing Xelloss off. "Now that you've gotten all that out of your system… I know I speak for us all when I tell you that we are all coming out of this alive and well. There are a lot of people out there, police-type people ready to jump in and help. No heroics. We have backup, understand… everyone? Good. Now, go home and eat, rest, and pack LIGHTLY. It's a normal day of school tomorrow and Friday, for most of us. Try and … live for the moment and don't worry about the future, as Xelloss wants us too, all right?"
Everyone was wasted emotionally. Amelia and Sylphiel said something kind to Xelloss. Then it was time to leave. Lina and Gourry walked home together reviewing plans and food to pack for Friday. Sylphiel offered a ride to Amelia, since she was driving Val and Filia downtown to the art store anyway. After getting their supplies, Val and Filia could walk to the dojo. Zel was left to change into his dojo attire and then he and Xelloss could head off for their appointments.
The extra workout at the dojo was good for Zel. He had stress in excess, and the karate rolls and punches were a fine release. Who knew when he'd be back to normal life activities again? Xelloss was in another room most of the time, but towards the end he just wandered around speaking to friends quietly, the sensei following him and smiling. This was his last day of work for 'a few weeks'. Nuriko was giving him a big hug when Sano lumbered up to Zel, ending his lesson.
"He's just gonna be gone a couple weeks, right? You'd think he wasn't planning on coming back," Sano chuckled.
Zel looked sadly over at his friend You're right…
"Yo! We is here!"
Zel smiled and nodded to the two friends at the door, "Come on in Val, Filia. He's just saying… bye for a couple weeks. Give him a few more minutes. So, Filia, what have you chosen for our future wearing enjoyment?"
"Red," Filia said with disgust. "None of my choices were considered, I mean what kinda expert was that guy, anyway?"
"That dude knows, Fil, he just does. He sells stuff at concerts and knows what moves and what doesn't. See? Different shades," Val pulled out a few to show Zel, who couldn't care less.
"Why so many?" Ze"l asked, not even pretending to care about the colors.
"Lina, need I say more? She demanded we make plenty to sell," Filia said. "Gods, I can't stand them! Zel, go pull Nuriko off him and let's go!"
Val and Sano greeted each other and began another conversation, while Zel migrated over to Xelloss.
"What're they doing here?" Nuriko asked.
Xelloss looked to Zel for the answer. Zel sighed, "Filia needs a ride home and I guess Val's coming along too. They were out choosing t-shirts and Filia wouldn't trust Val with the colors. Ready, Xelloss? We do have another couple stops, correct?"
Xelloss nodded, found the sensei, bowed, and then returned to Zel, "O-kay, do-kay!"
Zel parked outside a dance studio, not far from the performance hall where he wince the Mayor, and Amelia had watched the Nutcracker ballet. Was that in December? Feels like another lifetime… Zel thought to himself.
"Why are we stopping here?" Filia practically wailed from the back seat with Val.
"I won't be long, Filia," Xelloss smiled
"Dance studio, Zel?" Filia asked as Xelloss opened his car door.
"Take all the time you want," Zel said meaningfully. "I promised you, and they know that. Don't feel rushed. Want me to come along?"
Xelloss shook his head, "No, this won't take too long." He entered the studio.
"So?" Filia pushed.
"The dance master is world-famous, Filia. He asked Xelloss to join his troupe, and I know what you are thinking, and I can assure you it's all above-board. He's not a pervert and he's serious about wanting Xelloss as a student of his. I don't know what the conversation is about, though," Zel sighed.
Fifteen minutes later, Xelloss returned to the car. "Well that's over. Thanks, Zelgadiss." He leaned his head back and closed his eyes.
Half an hour later, they parked in front of Filia's house.
"Is it too late to see your brother?" Xelloss asked, opening his eyes and rolling his head over to look at Filia.
"You guys want to come in for a minute?" she asked politely.
Of course they did. So they all clamored noisily out of the car and stomped up to the door. "Hello, Mr. Ul Copt!" they greeted the tall blonde man holding the squawking baby.
Xelloss waited his turn. He approached Filia's father and spoke to him quietly, while Filia left the room to dump her backpack. Val scooped up the little guy and was rewarded with having a long green tendril of hair grasped and tugged by a tiny fist. He grinned and chortled in an undignified way (Val did the chortling, that is). Zel was next. The two stared into each other's bright blue eyes a moment. Here was someone who could look at the scarred boy and show no alarm, no fear, no horror, and he was so small…
Zel passed Quinny to his friend, "I think he's getting tired."
Xelloss smiled at his armful of warm baby, "Hmm, we've worn him out, I'm afraid, Mr. Ul Copt."
"Good. Maybe he'll sleep tonight. So Filia tells me some of you are going to the Macross recording studios over spring break. Does that include you too, Val?"
"Ah, no. Lina, Amelia and Gourry are goin' with Zel and Xelloss here, but the studio thing's Monday," Val started to explain.
"Not you? Why not come stay at the settlement, and then… stay here? There are many clan activities during the week and we could use an extra pair of hands."
"Thanks, but I've got my job and I have no way of getting' back and forth."
"No problem. Someone's always driving into town on business. We arrange car-pools all the time. I mean, with your two other friends gone, you don't want to be left alone in… at home," Mr. Ul Copt added meaningfully.
"Well, since ya put it that way… Okay, sure. Thanks!" Val laughed.
Xelloss and Mr. Ul Copt eyes met. Xelloss nodded then said, "I know some of us have homework, so it's time, isn't it Zelgadiss?"
"Thanks, boys, for bringing Filia home. Stop on by anytime… and I'll make arrangements with you later, Val," Mr. Ul Copt said as he led them to the door. He stopped Xelloss on his way out and whispered, "That's what you wanted, right?"
Xelloss smiled and nodded, "Thank you, Mr. Ul Copt."
Nothing important was discussed on the way home. Xelloss drove while Zel and Val talked music a little, but mostly they rode in silence.
"Zelgadiss? Would you check Dr. Adams for me? I think he's at the hospital tonight," Xelloss asked.
"Yeah, he's there and not busy. He'll see us in room 12A, oh and McGywn got your message from earlier, I guess. He's on his way to 12A too," Zel said after a brief phone conversation.
"Thanks, that's good, saves us a trip," Xelloss nodded.
"Touchin' bases, huh?" Val asked.
"Yep! Out of sight, out of mind! I want everyone to remember me!" Xelloss giggled.
"Kinda morbid…" Val groused.
They found room 12A, knocked, and let themselves in.
Officer McGywn smiled and shook hands with Val, "I do like see'n yer on this side o' the law, my boy!"
Val nodded and blushed, "Ah, me too…"
Xelloss ran through his timetable, "The exact locations I'm afraid I don't know yet, but I will before my meeting with Zel and the others. Milgasia's cooperation is the most questionable…"
"You'll have it. Ya got my word," Val grumbled.
"I'll keep you updated when I can, but Zelgadiss will be better able to, I think. I don't think it's a good idea for me to be chatting to police while masquerading as a syndicate hitman on assignment," Xelloss said with his trademark smile.
"Filia from the Cephied clan anointed me with her special magical herbal goop. See? I think it's really helping too!" Xelloss pulled the gi open to show the doctor.
The two men winced imperceptibly. "Ah, yes, nice job, Xelloss. What good friends you have, hmmm? Is she someone special to you?"
Xelloss looked sideways at Val's tense form, "Nooooo, but I think she really is having a hard time hiding her feelings for that guy."
The good doctor smiled at Val, "I see, so is the 'Allen' problem over with?"
Val cleared his throat and looked like he'd love to be nearly anyplace else, "Ahhh, I guess so. I'm stayin' with her folks over spring break, when I'm not busy…but it was her father who asked me, not her. She's not mad at me or nothin' anyways."
"Zelgadiss? You have anything to add?" Dr. Adams asked.
Zel stared at Xelloss, "Xelloss, here, is convinced he's not coming back. I want you two to tell him that he IS, and not to give up that part of the plan and do something stupid and take some unnecessary risk or jump in front of bullets, or speeding trains or pretend that he's invincible or that there's no one backing him up! He's said his good-byes and quit his job and… don't give up…please…promise me!" Zel directed his last words to Xelloss in a barely controlled, very emotion-filled voice.
Xelloss smiled, "I just discovered a family, a brother, a nephew… I won't give all that up purposefully, Zelgadiss. I promise."
McGywn laid out his plans and strategies, especially for Val and Zel's benefits. They needed to know how to contact him and what information he would require. Dr. Adams did the same. After fifteen minutes they were done.
Each man shook hands with the young men and wished them well. Xelloss spoke privately with the doctor, and pocketed a small vial before saying his final good bye.
"So what'd he give ya?" Val asked as Zel started the engine.
"What?"
"Ya heard me. I saw him give ya somethin'," Val pressed.
Before Xelloss could stop him, Zel snatched the tiny vial out of his pocket where he'd noticed the bulge. He frowned at the label and tossed it back to Val, "Suicide pills. I thought Gaav was the enemy."
Xelloss reached back and stole them out of Val's grasp, "There are worse things than dying… if I'm caught double-crossing my boss, for instance. I've met the master of Hell and befriended him, the next time we meet I'll be prepared, no matter what."
Xelloss was so dark that neither Val, nor Zel questioned him any further.
A late-afternoon conversation at the Whispering Oaks Retirement Center.
The old gentleman sat at the window overlooking the gazebo in the garden below. It was dark, and the only illumination came from a single, stark sulfur light above the exit door.
"Good evening, grandfather. Enjoy your dinner?" asked the dark-haired boy. Boy, for the young man was small and delicate-looking like a child of 12. "No. The food was terrible. It's a disgrace what they serve on a plate to these old people. Ah, well, it's the same story every night. Why are you visiting?" he asked gruffly.
"I wanted to see the face of the man I call 'grandfather'! Do I need a reason?" asked Phibrizzo, underworld crime lord controlling the oilfields of the Middle East.
Saygram Sr., father to Gaav's General Saygram, sighed, "You always have something in the works, schemes, plans, something. Ah, well… So… what do you think of the new recruit?"
"Xelloss? I like him! He and I will be running the entire syndicate within two years," the kid laughed.
"You think he'll share it with you?" the old man leveled a hard look at the boy.
Phibrizzo returned the gaze with one of uncertainty.
"You look surprised!" Saygram chuckled.
"You don't think he's that ambitious, do you?" Phibrizzo asked.
"He let you win at chess," Saygram answered.
"That's not true! And he does win sometimes!" the boy whined defensively.
"Humph!" the old man snorted.
Phibrizzo sighed, "So… what do you think I should do about him when his contract is over?"
A sly look washed across the old man's face, "Give him to me. I could use a new amusement. These serving boys are becoming dull."
"You are an awful man, grandfather."
"Of course I am. That's why I'm still alive!"
"I'll tell you what… I'll give it my consideration. You may be wrong. I think he admires and respects my power and accomplishments, for my age. He is a strong ally," the boy said.
"True, but you know whose son he is…"
"Zelas!" Phibrizzo spat. "But he hates her. It fuels his drive. He has no qualms about destroying her someday as well. I'm sure of that!"
The old man shifted in his chair as if to leave, "Suit yourself, then. But if I were in your shoes, I'd settle for offing the dangerous one and accruing that grandson of the Red Priest you were telling me about."
"Why settle? With the combined inheritance of Xelloss, Gaav's son, and the Zelgadiss freak, plus my own, I will be able to control four parts of Shabrinigdo's shares! I will be the majority stockholder!"
"That's only if you can convince them all to join forces with you," Saygram sighed as he rose slowly and painfully from his chair.
"Well, that's where the Lina girl comes in…Hey, don't worry, I have a plan that can't fail!" the kid laughed. "I've been watching them carefully. The best surveillance. And... if Xelloss shows signs of disobeying, you can have him!"
Saygram stood and straightened with effort, "I'll retire happy, even while you rot in hell."
"Ha! That's a good one, grandfather! That's why they call me Hell Master, old man. I even control Hell!"
Thursday.
Zel made his breakfast. Val sauntered in and jammed two pieces of bread into the toaster. "He gone?"
Zel nodded, "I heard a car pull up about two AM. I hope he'll be…"
Val interrupted, "He'll be there Friday… and he'll be okay."
Zel shook his head, "It's not fair. We all were just getting to be friends and the band was just starting to get good and I was finally starting to look forward to getting up in the morning and now… I don't want it to end…"
Val's eye glittered with emotion, "Me neither. So we're gonna make it all work. This time next week we'll all be soakin' in that hot tub moanin' about the break bein' 'bout over."
"ALL of us?"
"Yup. And richer than shit!" he chuckled.
BING!
"It's your toast. Grab it and go or we'll be late!" Zel shouted as he scrambled for his shoes.
"Who cares?"
Indeed. Certainly none of the Slayers cared much about anything that day at school.
Sylphiel was talkative at lunch. Amelia had moved over into Xelloss' empty seat so that she was mostly across from Sylphiel. Val sat in Amelia's vacated seat beside Zel, whether it was to cover up Xelloss' absence or for his own hidden purpose, Zel didn't know or care. Zel was in Zel-land, where no one else could gain admittance. Filia sat between Lina and Sylphiel, since Gourry hadn't claimed his usual seat yet. So, when he did arrive, he stood puzzled a moment before taking the empty seat beside Lina and across from Val. This new seating plan grouped the boys at one end and the girls at the other, with Lina and Zel marking the separation.
"Thought I was at the wrong table," Gourry smiled and bit into his sandwich. "For a second… everyone was moved around…"
Val shrugged and played with his bowl of chili, "Yeah, well…same ole…" his voice fading into nothingness.
"So, I never thought my first kiss would come from… Xelloss. My dad would kill him, if he found out, which he won't. He broke a rule and with me! Gods, daddy would kill me too! But…" Sylphiel smiled.
"But…what!" Filia prompted her friend. "It wasn't so special. Allen's was better, but… without feeling, you know. Xelly's was meaningful and…"
"From the heart!" Amelia cried. "Nothing could compare to…you know (Zelgadiss')… but he was so sweet and sad. I cried for hours after I went home."
Zel watched the girls out of the corner of his right eye, and then sank his head onto the table and stayed that way, using his folded arms as a pillow.
"He's sure taking it hard," Filia whispered.
Lina looked at Zel and finished her milk, "His best friend's gone and he worried and doesn't want to talk about it. Xelloss was acting pretty weird yesterday, even for him."
"But you let him kiss you again…that's two that you've gotten from him and… anyone else or was he your first too?" Sylphiel whispered.
"Nope," Lina said in a clipped voice. She nabbed Gourry's plate with half a sandwich, added her own fruit salad, and shoved the entire meal onto Zel's arm. "Eat this. Val? It's your job to get him to eat dinner or he'll starve to death and be useless tomorrow. And my first, um…one… was from Zel. 'Course it was pretty one-sided and stupid and he's already forgotten it and will deny it. He'd snuck into my room to return a book on, well that doesn't matter, and when he tried to escape out the window, I surprised him. We were only 12 or something. Nothing special, right? Hey, you kick, kick ! Aren't ya gonna say something?"
Zel peered up at her through his bangs, his bright blue eyes shooting icy arrows into her laughing red ones. "You have said enough, Lina. There is nothing left for me to say."
Filia shot off her mouth, "Gods, Lina, how insensitive! Maybe it was something special for him. What's he supposed to say? 'Oh the moment our lips met, I knew it was love… but now you call it stupid!' No wonder he's so…"
Lina had flushed red. She hadn't meant any of that, she had simply wanted to get his ire up and get him out of his mood. To her surprise Zel was speaking to Filia.
"I meant, Filia, that what Lina had said was correct and that there was nothing remaining for me to say. That's all. No hidden messages or meanings. Now can we talk about something else? Ah, thanks, Lina, for the food. I'd forgotten to pick up something," Zel said in a flat tone devoid of humor or any other emotion.
Filia left the table and returned with an enormous bowl of ice cream covered with strawberry topping and whipped cream. This she set down in front of Gourry, "See I remembered. Thanks for chaperoning last night. You know, the minute you left, he kissed me, the idiot. That's why I was hitting him. He's so… annoying! He's all quiet and innocent then so passionate, then goofy. I know you miss your friend, Zel, but frankly, there's much less… turmoil without him."
Zel was looking forward to having a break from Filia for a few days. She spoke her mind, and in the meantime: 1) had hurt Gourry's feelings bringing up 'kissing' topics –he knew Gourry and Lina were maintaining the 'just friends' mode— 2) had hurt Val by mentioning Xelloss' advances, 3) had embarrassed both Lina and himself, and 4) reminded them all that Xelloss was gone.
"Zel? It's the bell. Time to go to class," Amelia nudged him gently. "And I just want you to know that I think we all miss him, really, Filia too. She just doesn't know how to talk about it. See you in cooking!"
Thursday evening.
That evening Zel tapped on Val's door, "Packing?"
Val opened up, "Nah, did that yesterday to be sure I had clean stuff, come on in."
Zel sank onto Val's beanbag chair, Lina's first beanbag chair gift last fall. "I got stuff to wash too. I'll get… his stuff and we can get that done as well. Just change into what you'll wear in the morning and we can do it all."
Val stared at his glum friend, "Give me the keys. I'll get his stuff and meet you in the laundry room."
"He always separated according to fabric content and color, but that makes an extra load. White and dark will do, right?" Zel asked.
"Yeah, sure. I stick it all in one load usually. Makes the underwear gray, but, hey, who's gonna care? Well, besides Xelloss. He's always spotless and without a hair out of place, though it was getting' long… Hey, Zel? I'm sure he's fine."
"Yeah. Shit, I hope I don't wimp out and faint or freeze up and screw up things," Zel moaned.
"Yuh won't. Not with Lina and Gourry and Amelia countin' on ya," Val said sincerely.
"Oh, ah… thanks," Zel needed to obsess about something else. "So how do you propose to motivate the great Milgasia into helping?"
Val's smile grew into a leer, "Ha, I gotta hand it to Xelloss for puttin' the idea in my head. I'm gonna blackmail him. I'll threaten ta tell the clan I'm his and Zelas' son, or else."
"But it's not true! He'll tell you to go to hell and you'll be stuck!" Zel said.
"Don't matter, if I've got this," he smirked and waved a paper.
"What's that?" Zel's eyes narrowed.
"My birth certificate complete with his name and seal…"
"WHAT? How did you get that? Oh…not… Xelloss…"
"Yeah, I little partin' gift from Chaos-kid. Found it under my door. Looks legit… old…and it's on the hospital database. He left me a note. Ahhhh, he really could be good in a life of crime," Val chuckled.
"That's what worries me about him, and you, for that matter! The fine line between right and wrong is screwed up in his head. For him the ends justify the means too many times." Zel shut up and sighed. "Ah, good. This goes into the drier but on low heat and the short cycle so the shirts don't get wrinkled. What? It's not much extra trouble to do it right! Last load into the washer…"
"So, where do you figure Zelas has gone? She wasn't at dinner tonight and Rezo wasn't sharin' nothin'," Val asked as they settled back in his room.
"It can't be good. I'd like to hope that she's leaving Xelloss alone though," Zel shook his head.
KNOCK, KNOCK
Val looked at Zel who shrugged, "I don't know."
"Yeah?" Val shouted.
"Is Zelgadiss with you?" Rezo asked.
Zel opened the door, "Ah, hello, we're just passing the time while doing the wash."
Rezo stood in the doorway, "Xelloss has gone already?"
Zel didn't know what to say. He didn't want to put Xelloss into any more danger.
Rezo understood more than Zel thought, "May I speak to you alone. I have something to show you."
Zel followed his father to the front room where he stood nervously at the couch, "What do you want?"
Rezo took his time. He wanted to speak with his son, and there was a chance that this would be his last opportunity. He set a long priest's staff into Zel's hands, "Many people have asked me for this over the years. Nels Lahda wanted it for his shrine, where it's a valuable relic. Zelas, Gaav, and lately, Xelloss. I'm sure you haven't forgotten that argument. I turned them all down. You see, it wasn't mine to give away. It's yours. Your grandfather left it and the cloak in my possession."
He paused to sit down and indicated that Zel should sit beside him on the couch. "Yes, the cloak and this staff are originals. My father, the Red Priest, asked me to hide them after he returned from his travels. I was a young man about your age. I never knew him. He was gone so much of the time. But, I knew something was wrong, terribly wrong with him. I hid his things as he asked and a few weeks later…he went truly mad and, well you know the story. A few days later, I looked in on the things and found this note wrapped in the cloak. It was a note, to my future son, willing his entire inheritance to you, and you weren't even born yet! For years I harbored a hatred for him and, sadly, yourself. I vowed to get my share, at any cost. "
"Well, the cost has become too high, I've decided. I've enjoyed these past three months tremendously, watching you and your fine friends growing up. I realized that my most esteemed possessions were nothing in comparison, to those treasured evenings at the table listening to you all. Then I found that plans were in motion to destroy you all, to acquire inheritances, all driven by a kind of greed and power-lust I no longer had or wanted any part of. Xelloss' harsh words tore away a veil in my mind, which was shrouding the true nature of the beast… the master of the beast… the evilest woman known to man. Seeing Zelas for the first time as the woman she had become, not the one I once knew and loved, helped guide my decision."
Rezo rose from the couch and retrieved another staff. It was nearly as tall as that of the Red Priest, but instead of the loose rings at the top, there glowed a deep, red globe between two uneven prongs. "This is for Xelloss, when you see him. This belongs to Zelas. It is the most powerful symbol of the syndicate, the Eye of Shabrinigdo, a ruby of priceless value. She left it in her haste to leave to Wolfpack Island. I suppose she believed it to be safely hidden here."
"The priest staff is yours. If you want him to have it, well, that's your decision. Gaav would like to get his hands on it, to sell it of course, but the ruby one will draw him like no other. I feel that you are alarmed at the extent that I know your plans. Well don't be. I've spoken to Nels Lahda and Phil Seyruun, old friendships I'm pleased to have renewed, thanks again to you and your friends. I'm on board. I will be keeping track of Zelas."
Rezo pulled out a cellphone, "I'll let you know if she moves. Do you have room to add another number?"
Zelgadiss, silent up until now, nodded, and pulled out his cellphone, "Your number?" Then he entered the code as Rezo recited it. "Do you want mine?
Rezo smiled, "Thank you, but I already have it. Number one on the AutoDial. Listen, son, I know you don't trust me. I wouldn't after all you've been through either, I suppose. But, I'll be here waiting and I'll do my part to help save your lives. Oh, and Zelas and I are separating. I will file for divorce when you are all back safely. In the end, I know I've stayed here to save her son and you and Val too."
Zelgadiss smiled.
"Have you nothing to say?" Rezo asked.
"Actually I was thinking that the only one who'll be sad to hear the 'divorce' news will be Xelloss. He's really enjoyed calling me his little brother. He said it made him feel a part of a family," Zel sighed.
"Well, that he'll always be. Xelloss is my brother-in-law, you know, as well as step-son." he paused to smile and then continued, "I am glad you two came to know one another and be friends. Your mother really was his sister. I didn't make up that story, if you ever wondered."
"Thanks. I guess I never was quite sure what the truth was. Rezo? Father?"
"Yes?"
"Xelloss taught me that since we never know when our last words together may be said, we should be sure to say what we really mean or how we feel sometime, so that we don't regret never having done so," Zel said standing to face the father he'd never had the chance to know, until that moment.
"He's an emotional boy, your friend Xelloss," Rezo replied.
"Unlike me, huh," Zel smirked. Zel jumped forward, threw his arms around his father, and held him tightly. "I love you," he whispered through tears running down his cheeks and onto his father's shoulder.
Slowly, Rezo returned the gesture, and whispered back, "I don't deserve this, but I shall cherish this forever. I love you too, son."
They stood like that for a long time, both unable to be the one to break the comforting hug. It was the first time they'd ever exchanged any touch.
"Are you still bothered by those scars, son?"
"Not so much. They let me see who my real friends are. But, someday…"
"We can get you fixed up," Rezo finished.
Zel released his hold and wiped his eyes, "Um, it's late and I need to get up for school, then I have a busy weekend planned."
Rezo nodded, "I know. Call me tomorrow night. Let me know you're all right."
"O-kay, do-kay! Heh, heh, I had to say that. Don't ever let him know I said that either," Zel chuckled as he lifted both staffs, one in each hand.
"I won't. I'll be up to see you and Val off in the morning so make me breakfast!"
"Sure, I'll bang on your door when I get up so you don't get cold eggs," Zel suggested lightheartedly.
Rezo stopped and then chuckled, "Bang all you like, but don't let that damned dog into my room. He drools. Slobbering nuisance."
"Beast? I like him. He's mine, you know. Xelloss said I could have him. I'm very good with them."
"Of course, they're both sniveling, annoying…" Rezo began.
"Slobbering, nuisances… Yeah, but I meant dogs in general. That's all right. Ah, good night and thanks for the sticks!" Zel smirked. "Oh, and GOOD NIGHT, VAL! I KNOW THAT YOU'VE BEEN LISTENING! AND DON'T FORGET TO FOLD THAT LAST LOAD OF LAUNDRY!"
Rezo shook his head and followed his son up the stairs.
From the room below they could hear laughter and the muffled voice of Val as he screamed back at Zel, "Go to hell, freak!"
Friday morning, Rezo 'watched' the two remaining boys load up the car. He had offered to feed Beast for Zel, his son--he liked the way that rolled off of his tongue—since that dog mattered to him.
"Ah, do ya have the number at the Ul Copt house where I'll be staying?" Val asked Rezo before getting into the car. "Probation rules and all…"
Rezo nodded, "Number 4 on the AutoDial, Val. Call me too, tonight."
Val agreed and climbed into the passenger seat. Zel started the engine and away they went.
Rezo had slept well, the best in years. Zel had made him his favorite breakfast of poached eggs on toast and hugged him again that morning before leaving the house. He had his son back, his pride, and a purpose of importance and consequence—keep the kids safe, protect them from Zelas. Well, no one said parenting would be easy!
Zel drove first to Lina's, picked her up, and tossed her bag into the trunk. Next, he stopped for Gourry, his bag and sword, wrapped in a coat. Then he drove to the Mayor's mansion. Amelia and her father were standing at the door awaiting their arrival.
Zel grinned uncharacteristically, "Hello, I'll get that bag, Amelia. Oh, and Phil? Rezo, my father, is on board too! He told me everything."
Val rolled down the front seat window, shook his head, and smiled at Amelia, "Meet the new Zel, son of Rezo."
"Why that's wonderful, Zelgadiss!" cried Amelia. "Something good has come of this already! I just know everything will turn out okay now!"
In her excitement she gave Zel a little hug, and in his excitement, he didn't even blush.
Phil congratulated him and told him about a conversation he'd had with Rezo recently about his decision to separate from Zelas' influence. Then he reminded Zel to 'take care of his little girl', much to the embarrassment of both kids.
It was a lost day of school. In the end, Sylphiel drove Val and Filia out to the settlement simply for the company and distraction. Zel, Lina, Gourry, and Val turned onto the highway and aimed for Atlas City.
Next stop, Ridkou Village!
(((.-)) Zel |||^.^||| Xelloss |{{^.^}}| Lina |((.^)|| Gourry ((^.^)) Amelia |))-.-((| Val