Chapter 3
Rays of sunlight gleamed over the large parasol that rose out of the heart of the table. Mina quietly stirred her tea as she leaned her cheek into her palm, her elbow propped up on the table's ledge.
The small café they had found was perfect for the privacy they needed. Upstairs on a large patio that over looked the market and busy streets below. There was enough noise for them not to be heard but enough to hear each other across the table. After stuffing down about twelve pieces of cake each Gourd and Mina ordered tea, while all the long Carla nursed her single cup of tea.
"So do you think that your cousin Mills might be behind the murders?" Mina questioned, as if she were talking to her self oppose to inquiring to Carla out loud.
"That's just inhuman, why would he do something like that?!" Gourd said looking at Mina in disbelief.
"Killing kin wouldn't matter to some people as long as money is involved. Greed runs the countries as much as the Lord dose these days. That's why he is my number one suspect, Gourd," said Mina, "Considering that is all what I can assume with the information I have."
"M-mills would never do anything like that Miss Mina. He loves our family as much as his own. He would never harm anyone," Carla said shaking. The idea of the only one she could really trust now being the one she should most fear was almost unbearable.
"And maybe that's why he loves you as much as his family, because you have money. Think about it, poisoning all of you would be the easiest, quickest and most undetectable way of killing of you and your family. That would also explain why they look pale by death and no struggle. Dieing in their sleep . At least it wasn't painful," Mina trailed off as Gourd and Carla looked at her. She took a sip of her tea and then still holding it up looked to Carla.
"I just hope you aren't right Miss Mina. I couldn't stand to know that Mills was the killer," she said her voice wavering.
"Mina, if it is true how will we prove this Moils guys responsible?" whispered Gourd leaning over to her so that the distressed Carla would not hear.
"Well, you could wait one night and hide inside Carla's room. So when I come into poison her you could catch me red handed, considering she is the only healthy one left you should have guessed she would have been my next target," said a composed voice, holding a suggestion of mockery in it, from behind Mina's back.
"That would work, Mina. Actually I was thinking along the same lines," said Gourd valuing what he had just heard nodding.
"There is one problem with that Gourd," Mina said smiling as she tilted back in her chair.
"What?"
"That wasn't me speaking."
Gourd raised an eyebrow as Mina turned in her chair. Fallowing her actions Gourd turned as well.
"Cousin Mills!!!" shouted Carla joyfully as she hopped from her chair and jumped into the man's arm. He picked her up spun in a circle finishing with an embrace as a father would do to his young daughter. Placing her down on the ground again Mills slowly stepped back, his hands placed on her shoulders, and smiled.
"You are still as beautiful as ever," he said good-naturedly hugging Carla again.
"I take it you are Mills Ul Copt?" asked Mina as know she was standing with Gourd the both of them facing Carla's back. Mills looked up from his cousin's face smiling but as he reached Mina's gaze a stern look appeared.
His dark gold eyes stared into Mina's rubies eyes they both where full of suspicion and malice towards each other. Their gaze was broken as Carla interrupted the mental quarrel.
"Mills I would like you to meet Miss Mina Inverse and Mr Gourd Gabriev, they the detectives I have hired," she said standing aside letting the trio have room to greet each other. Gourd walked up first and stuck out his large fist. Mills grasped it and they shook whole heartedly.
"Glad to meet you sir," Gourd said tipping his hat only to receive and small bow from the man.
"Likewise, I expect you to be Miss Inverse. I have heard so much about you, it is an honor to be in your presents," Mills said in a courteous and very gentleman manner holding out his hand for a more delicate shake. Mina stood gazing at him for a few seconds before she even started to elevate her hand. When they shook it was very swift and stiff, unlike Gourd's long and friendly shake.
"I have also heard much about you, I'm sure we will be seeing each other soon," she said, adding "Sooner than you think," mentally.
"I hope so," Mills agreed. "But now I must be taking off with Carla. It has been a pleasure meeting you both." Mills bowed deeply his blond hair falling over his shoulders as he did. With a quick turn he was swiftly out the double doors and out of sight. Carla turned to them and smiled.
"I will phone you as soon as I can Miss Mina. If anything else happens you'll be sure to hear from me," she said turning as well.
"Uhhh . Maybe phoning us wouldn't be the greatest idea ." said Gourd laughing somewhat. Carla turned and looked at him raising her petite eyebrow.
"Why not?"
"Well you see. The phone is broken . One time Mina got really mad ."
"Hehehe, Miss Ul Copt doesn't need to know the whole story, Gourd, does she. Besides her cousin is waiting downstairs for her," Mina said smiling through clenched teeth as she stood on Gourd's toe and gave him an overly hard slap on the back.
"OH that's right, Mills will be angry if I make him wait to long! I must leave know good bye," Carla said hurriedly as she curtsied barley and sped down the stairs almost pushing over a waiter down the stairs.
"He was a nice guy wasn't he, not so bad that Miles," Gourd said sitting back down tossing his hat on the table. Mina sat down thought her head never moved from the direction of were the two Ul Copt's had disappeared. "Mina . You there?"
"Hmm . Oh sorry I was just thinking. I don't know about him. What if he is behind all the murders?"
"I highly doubt that Mina," said Gourd laughing. Mina's eyebrow twitched as she turned to look at her partner.
"Oh, and why is that?"
"Because . he told us what to do if he was the murder, that means he isn't . right?" said Gourd his laughter ceasing and looking at Mina who had her brow furrowed as she folded he hands and placed her chin on them. She lifted her gaze to Gourd's and sighed.
"We can only hope for now . The answer will have to wait," she said in a monotone voice looking of to the side her thoughts dwelling on the matters that clouded her head.
Gourd pulled him self up in his chair and looked up to the sky. This case was the oddest they had ever gotten. Not only did he have trouble comprehending what was troubling the Ul Copts neither could Mina. But he couldn't help felling that there was something wrong, something eerie about this case. It seemed wherever he went Gourd seemed to be turning his head over his shoulder. Gourd had never been superstitious or paranoid even if they did live in a rough part of town. He knew his size kept most pickpockets and ruffians away. Mina on the other hand was the one he was supposed to look after.
Mina pulled her jacket from where it had been sitting, on the back of her chair, and tossed it over her arm. Gourd seemed off into another zoning session of his. She shook her head even at the most dangerous situations of there he always seemed to keep a carefree look about him and his attitude. Mina smiled maybe that's why she hung around him so much she felt more comfortable, even if she could take out those jerks from off the streets who thought she was weak and could be mugged.
"Madame," said a voice in her ear so she jumped out of her thought. "You do not have to worry about paying the bill. The woman who was sitting with you earlier has paid," the waiter said overlooking Mina as if he never expected her to be able to afford a place like this in her dreams.
"Thank you for informing me. My partner and I will be leaving now back to our office, have a tip," she said smugly flipping a coin up into the air that the waiter caught with much speed like a mouse, a rat would gather his food for the day. He looked to Mina then with an expression of surprise turned to hatred he slinked off back into the café.
Mina smiling at her daily triumph turned to and looked at Gourd with her hand on her hips she shook her head. She walk over to the table and levitated her knee till it was touching the rim then she gave it a jolt up causing Gourd, who had his chair tilted and was using the table as support, to fall backwards. Gourd and the chair had a nice talk with the floor. Mina strolled over to him and leaned down so her hair was dangling in his face.
"Come on. Let's get back to the office ." Before Mina could finish her sentence Gourd sat right up smacking his forehead right into Mina's.
"Oh sorry," he said smiling a bit rubbing his forehead where they had collided. Gourd went over to pat her shoulder and get up but not realizing that when he went to pat her shoulder she had been facing him and he had ended up patting her chest.
Everyone that was sitting outside on the patio turned their heads after the loud thump they had heard only to see a furious red-head stomping off, her face brighter than her hair cursing as she went, and a large blonde man semi-unconscious sprawled on the ground.
***
Carla looked out the window longingly as she passed the villagers in the market. No of them seemed to be aware of her gazing. The carriage hit another bump and she was sent into the air a few inches only to land back on the sat seats.
Mills eye's rested on Carla, she seemed troubled. No doubt with all this death in her life it must be troubling her out of her mind. He was on the opposite side of the coach from her. Mills moved closer so there knees were touching, this brought Carla out of her troubled thoughts. He clasped her hands in his and held them.
"Don't worry Carla dear. Everything will be all right. There is no needing of Miss Inverse to interfere we already have someone ."
"But Mills . You know I can't stand him, there's something eerie about him and he's a big jerk!" She pleaded hoping the Mills would give in.
Mills stare became more of an angered and stern instead of his kind and gentle one.
"Our detective is a very highly educated man and well respected in his line of work. I trust him with my life, you should learn to respect him," Mills began to speak more tranquilly now taking his hand out and placing it on Carla's cheek. "Please understand this is for your well-being only." Carla turned her head away and shut her eyes, looking quite tart, causing Mills to sigh.
He leaned back letting his back sink into the cushioned seat. He prayed silently for Carla's approval of their protector . and ally.
***
Glasses rang out as they where clinked together, the contents slopping out over the rims of the mugs.
The bar was a bit rowdy tonight.
Mina slid down into a stool at the bar. She looked over her shoulder to see Gourd sit himself down at a circular table. Mina, same as her companion, was now dressed in a new garb as not to stand out . to much.
"I like the hat, Miss. It's very worn looking," said a childish voice from her right.
"That's the point Frenz. I'm glad it's apparently worked," Mina said pulling the hat off her head with gloved hands the running her hands through her hair then placing the cap back on.
"I might add that your whole costume is very authentic."
"Keep it down. I'm trying not to get any attention."
"Oh, sorry Miss. You must be on a case the, right?"
"You got it kid, but of course you knew that. You cease to amaze me why you ask questions to what you know the answer to," Mina said hoping to maybe learn his secret. She looked to the young boy sitting beside her but his ocean like eyes didn't' say anything. Mina just ruffled his hair and leaned back.
The musicians that were on a momentary break started up again, letting a jazzy sound illuminate the bar. Mina tapped her finger to the beat on the counter as the bartender made his way to her and the dark haired child. He was a fairly large man who had a small spot of hair on the top and small mustache. He was wiping the inside of a bottle with his apron as he placed him self in front of the two.
"How can I 'elp ya sir," he asked in his deep voice, that held a thick accent, addressing Mina. A vein appeared on her temple but she held her anger in very well.
"Two pints, sir," replied Frenz before Mina could say anything. The bartender looked to his right to see a young boy looking right back at him.
"Dun ya think yer a young 'un to have a pint," the bartender said his belly rolling with his laughter. Frenz smirked as he flipped three gold coins onto the counter. This stopped the man's laughter. He eyed the coins and picked them up with his free hand. After examining them and biting them to see if they were true to their appearance, he pocketed the coins.
"What will you be liking too sirs?"
"So Miss, did you come by to ask any questions or for a drink," the dark haired child asked swishing his large mug before drinking, his eyes still on Mina. Mina waited before answering. She tipped the top of her mug to her lips but not drinking any. She knew she had to watch how she worded her sentence or Frenz would twist it and take them off topic. Mina couldn't let that happen.
"Well now that you mention it, "Mina said he voice dropping to a whisper, but Frenz didn't lean closer, "I'm on a serious case. The Ul Copt's have employed us for this one. The thing is that so far all their deaths have been very odd, and they all seem to have anemic symptoms, but it's not. I'm pretty bent on them being poisoned by another visiting family member. But we have no proof so far. Have you heard anything about this spreading throughout the town?"
Frenz tapped his chin with his finger. His eyes were closed, as Mina raised her eyebrows looking at him for an answer or a riddle.
"Well Miss, I did hear some rumors spreading around. I didn't pay much attention to them, but I think they said something about a great number of people have been getting sick and dieing lately. That may confuse your case but that's all I got," Frenz said swinging his legs in his stool. He smiled at Mina.
Mina was concentrating on what he had just said; maybe she was wrong about Mills then. He couldn't be poisoning everyone . This was too confusing. Mina racked her brain trying to get some space to use some common sense in all of this. She was just about to turn to ask Frenz another question when a chair flew past her head. Mina ducked just in time.
"Hey what's the big idea," Mina yelled out then sighed. A brawl had started at the other side of the bar; most likely someone was cheating on a card game. The bar door opened letting a gust of wind pass through the bar like a fog. Mina shivered as the cold air pricked her skin. She turned to ask Frenz another question only to find an empty stool. Mina got up from her chair leaving a tip right by her glass. Mina had her hand on the door when she realized that Gourd was still here . somewhere. Spinning around Mina's eyes fell right on Gourd's table.
It was surrounded by a group of card players and girls, Mina's eyes twitched.
"Well I think I win fellas," said the skeletal looking man as he placed his cards down on the table. The other around the table groaned as the man greedily bent over with his spindly arms and dragged the coins to him. Gourd looked at the other guy's hand and scratched his head.
"I was sure . oh well good game," he said kindly holding out his hand. The man, still clutching his won coins, suspiciously glanced at Gourd before sticking his bony hand out to shake. The girls sitting around Gourd smiled.
"Isn't he such a gentleman," they whispered to one another edging closer to Gourd. The other men gave there silent death wishes to him. As soon as Gourd grasped the man's hand he gave it a whole heartedly shake causing the hidden cards that had been in the man's sleeve to fall out across the table.
"It's not nice to cheat," Gourd said letting go of the cheater's hand. The man had a look of terror on his face as the other three men turned to glance at him. He gulped and stood up out of his chair.
"N-now it's not what you think . I needed that money to feed my family," he said trying to sneak away from the table his beady eyes bouncing around in his sockets trying to find an escape. The other men weren't too happy none the less to see they had been cheated. Each of them towered in height over the shriveling man.
Gourd sighed as the three men pounced on the bony man. Gourd pushed back his chair and was about to help the man before he was brutally beaten when a powerful smack on the back of his head sent him face first into the table.
"Gourd you idiot!! I said to stay low, not to get into a fight!" Mina scolded looking down at him. Most of the girls who had been surrounding the table had now backed off staring unbelievably at this person.
"Uhhh," was the only sound that Gourd could make out now at his unconscious state. Mina, shaking her head in disapproval, walked over to him and clutched the back of his collar. Mina looked at his face, but he was completely out of it. One eye was open and his mouth was open and he was drooling.
"Way to make a mess of your self," Mina thought as she trudges over to his feet and picked both of them up under her arms and turned around. The girls from the card table watched as the red-head man drag away the blonde hair man behind her by his feet.
By now the bar was in up-most state of chaos. As soon as that man had been attacked some stuff had been thrown around and hitting other tables. Like a chain link reaction it was a complete brawl fest. Even the musicians had stopped playing and were retreating using their instruments as shields or weapons if a drunken man decided to start a fight. The Guard would be here soon to clean things up and it would be better no to get caught up because they knew Mina's face. Mina walked normally as if nothing were much happening, she knew when to duck or side step and thus so far resulting her not getting hit by anything yet. Though Gourd was less unfortunate, being dragged behind and being as tall as he was, he occasionally was stepped on or got hit by a falling object. This was saying much because these people weren't exactly stepping lightly to avoid stepping on Gourd or just tossing chairs or glasses lightly. But Mina was confident with Gourd's stamina for staying asleep through this even though it would probably hurt in the morning. The door was in plain sight and Mina was determined to reach it, just as she was two steps and drags away a large hand clasped on her shoulder. Letting out an exasperated sigh Mina dropped Gourd's legs and turned around.
"Dun think you'llsssh bee going with outs without a fights," the broad but drunk man said. Mina lifted her hand up, in the process knocking his hand over from her shoulder, and wiped the spit from her cheek.
"Disgusting," was all Mina had to say to infuriate the drunk to the brink of exploding. Mina was able to duck swiftly and nimbly as he try a sloppy punch only staggering forward. Sticking out her foot Mina was very successful in her tripping. The man fell face first into the floor. Next to the large thud there was a resounding crack in the floor. Mina rolled her eyes and was about to lean down to pick up Gourd's feet when a large fist came out from the left. Mina only had time to duck but she still felt more so or less pain when the person's knuckles skimmed the top of her head and fell on top of her knocking the wind out of her. She tired to squirm and kick her way out but the lack of air was her first concern. Her eyes widen as she could not longer feel anything in her left leg. Mina cursed as she beat on the unconscious man's chest. She needed to get out .
"I don't want it to end like this! God . this is completely idiocy. Calm down Mina think, just need to call out for Gourd and everything should be all right," Mina's thoughts were soon ceased as the burly man was flung off of her. With a relived sigh Mina shut her eyes. "Thanks Gourd I thought you'd never come."
The hideously loud breath made Mina groaned as she opened her eyes to see the hideous reality, which grew louder every second. Mina painfully rolled to her side quickly as a loud stepping sound was heard right next to were she just was. She sighed and steadies her self about to take a jump up. When a large sharp pain shot through her left leg she had to grab onto the upturned chair next to her so she didn't land back on the floor.
"Bloody hell!" was all Mina was able to murmur. The sound of a sword being un-sheathed made her cringe; this was going to be a painful night. Just as Mina looked up she saw the man's figure crumple to the ground. About to question what was going on Mina's felt a powerful force wrap around her waist and pull her back. Her first thoughts were it was Gourd then when she opened her eyes Mina gave a gasp that only gave her a sharp pain in her lungs.
Everything around Mina was black. It was like a dark mist blanketed her. Mina tired to shout out to her partner but her voice seemed to be trapped by the thick fog that encircled her. Mina lifted her arm out to grab a hold of something but it was like grabbing the fog, then she realized something her leg was fine now there was no more pain, as she noticed that a slow hum began to fill her eyes calming her. Washing completely over her Mina struggled to keep her eyes opened but knew it was better to not fight. Just to fall asleep and relax.
A quick breath of cold musty air made Mina fling here eyes open wide. Turning about quickly Mina saw the cracked, damp coble stone at her feet and the closed shops at her side and the Tavern in front of her and the black midnight sky speckled with stars above her. All Mina could do was stand there mouth agape and eyes bobbing around. She jumped as a hand clapped down on her shoulder. After what happened the first time Mina turned around with a balled fist and let her arm shoot out into the persons' face. Opening her eyes Mina bit her bottom lip.
"Gourd! What are you .? This is really weird, uhhh Gourd are you ok? Sorry about that, you just startled me," Mina ran over to Gourd and kneeled down beside him. She rolled her eyes as Gourd sat up rubbing his head with on hand.
"I'll remember not to do that again," was all he said smiling at Mina. Mina smiled back a tint of red crawled onto her face. She noticed this but it was better not to make a commotion of it. Standing up she held out her hand which Gourd took standing up.
"Hey Gourd?"
"Yeah Mina?"
"Oh, never mind. Let's go home it's late."
"Ok Mina."
Frenz swung his feet back and forth from the building across the street. He watched as the two detectives walked out from the human eye's view. A twisted smirk appeared on his face. Then his innocent face mask came back into effect as he looked around for any onlookers. Frenz grasped onto the ankle of the body that was lying lifelessly next to him. Looking at it he smiled sweetly.
"Now it wouldn't be any use having her die yet would it? Thanks for the talk though it was great getting to know you," he told the limp body. "But now it's time you go I have other things to do." Standing up still holding the ankle he dragged the body till it was dangling off the ledge. Staring at his victim's face, Frenz tilted his head and giggled.
Frenz turned and walked away as he heard shouts and yells from the Tavern across the street. The he walked off into the shadows letting the people of the inn to find a child's body in a mangled heap on the ground.
***
Boo: Bonjourno, it's been a while . I mean a really long time now since I've updated but I'm not dead so don't worry. Sorry for the late updates I'll try to keep them closer together . but anyways. Hopefully somebody know what's going on, I don't want to have lost my readers. And you Slothy Shh cause you know.
Rays of sunlight gleamed over the large parasol that rose out of the heart of the table. Mina quietly stirred her tea as she leaned her cheek into her palm, her elbow propped up on the table's ledge.
The small café they had found was perfect for the privacy they needed. Upstairs on a large patio that over looked the market and busy streets below. There was enough noise for them not to be heard but enough to hear each other across the table. After stuffing down about twelve pieces of cake each Gourd and Mina ordered tea, while all the long Carla nursed her single cup of tea.
"So do you think that your cousin Mills might be behind the murders?" Mina questioned, as if she were talking to her self oppose to inquiring to Carla out loud.
"That's just inhuman, why would he do something like that?!" Gourd said looking at Mina in disbelief.
"Killing kin wouldn't matter to some people as long as money is involved. Greed runs the countries as much as the Lord dose these days. That's why he is my number one suspect, Gourd," said Mina, "Considering that is all what I can assume with the information I have."
"M-mills would never do anything like that Miss Mina. He loves our family as much as his own. He would never harm anyone," Carla said shaking. The idea of the only one she could really trust now being the one she should most fear was almost unbearable.
"And maybe that's why he loves you as much as his family, because you have money. Think about it, poisoning all of you would be the easiest, quickest and most undetectable way of killing of you and your family. That would also explain why they look pale by death and no struggle. Dieing in their sleep . At least it wasn't painful," Mina trailed off as Gourd and Carla looked at her. She took a sip of her tea and then still holding it up looked to Carla.
"I just hope you aren't right Miss Mina. I couldn't stand to know that Mills was the killer," she said her voice wavering.
"Mina, if it is true how will we prove this Moils guys responsible?" whispered Gourd leaning over to her so that the distressed Carla would not hear.
"Well, you could wait one night and hide inside Carla's room. So when I come into poison her you could catch me red handed, considering she is the only healthy one left you should have guessed she would have been my next target," said a composed voice, holding a suggestion of mockery in it, from behind Mina's back.
"That would work, Mina. Actually I was thinking along the same lines," said Gourd valuing what he had just heard nodding.
"There is one problem with that Gourd," Mina said smiling as she tilted back in her chair.
"What?"
"That wasn't me speaking."
Gourd raised an eyebrow as Mina turned in her chair. Fallowing her actions Gourd turned as well.
"Cousin Mills!!!" shouted Carla joyfully as she hopped from her chair and jumped into the man's arm. He picked her up spun in a circle finishing with an embrace as a father would do to his young daughter. Placing her down on the ground again Mills slowly stepped back, his hands placed on her shoulders, and smiled.
"You are still as beautiful as ever," he said good-naturedly hugging Carla again.
"I take it you are Mills Ul Copt?" asked Mina as know she was standing with Gourd the both of them facing Carla's back. Mills looked up from his cousin's face smiling but as he reached Mina's gaze a stern look appeared.
His dark gold eyes stared into Mina's rubies eyes they both where full of suspicion and malice towards each other. Their gaze was broken as Carla interrupted the mental quarrel.
"Mills I would like you to meet Miss Mina Inverse and Mr Gourd Gabriev, they the detectives I have hired," she said standing aside letting the trio have room to greet each other. Gourd walked up first and stuck out his large fist. Mills grasped it and they shook whole heartedly.
"Glad to meet you sir," Gourd said tipping his hat only to receive and small bow from the man.
"Likewise, I expect you to be Miss Inverse. I have heard so much about you, it is an honor to be in your presents," Mills said in a courteous and very gentleman manner holding out his hand for a more delicate shake. Mina stood gazing at him for a few seconds before she even started to elevate her hand. When they shook it was very swift and stiff, unlike Gourd's long and friendly shake.
"I have also heard much about you, I'm sure we will be seeing each other soon," she said, adding "Sooner than you think," mentally.
"I hope so," Mills agreed. "But now I must be taking off with Carla. It has been a pleasure meeting you both." Mills bowed deeply his blond hair falling over his shoulders as he did. With a quick turn he was swiftly out the double doors and out of sight. Carla turned to them and smiled.
"I will phone you as soon as I can Miss Mina. If anything else happens you'll be sure to hear from me," she said turning as well.
"Uhhh . Maybe phoning us wouldn't be the greatest idea ." said Gourd laughing somewhat. Carla turned and looked at him raising her petite eyebrow.
"Why not?"
"Well you see. The phone is broken . One time Mina got really mad ."
"Hehehe, Miss Ul Copt doesn't need to know the whole story, Gourd, does she. Besides her cousin is waiting downstairs for her," Mina said smiling through clenched teeth as she stood on Gourd's toe and gave him an overly hard slap on the back.
"OH that's right, Mills will be angry if I make him wait to long! I must leave know good bye," Carla said hurriedly as she curtsied barley and sped down the stairs almost pushing over a waiter down the stairs.
"He was a nice guy wasn't he, not so bad that Miles," Gourd said sitting back down tossing his hat on the table. Mina sat down thought her head never moved from the direction of were the two Ul Copt's had disappeared. "Mina . You there?"
"Hmm . Oh sorry I was just thinking. I don't know about him. What if he is behind all the murders?"
"I highly doubt that Mina," said Gourd laughing. Mina's eyebrow twitched as she turned to look at her partner.
"Oh, and why is that?"
"Because . he told us what to do if he was the murder, that means he isn't . right?" said Gourd his laughter ceasing and looking at Mina who had her brow furrowed as she folded he hands and placed her chin on them. She lifted her gaze to Gourd's and sighed.
"We can only hope for now . The answer will have to wait," she said in a monotone voice looking of to the side her thoughts dwelling on the matters that clouded her head.
Gourd pulled him self up in his chair and looked up to the sky. This case was the oddest they had ever gotten. Not only did he have trouble comprehending what was troubling the Ul Copts neither could Mina. But he couldn't help felling that there was something wrong, something eerie about this case. It seemed wherever he went Gourd seemed to be turning his head over his shoulder. Gourd had never been superstitious or paranoid even if they did live in a rough part of town. He knew his size kept most pickpockets and ruffians away. Mina on the other hand was the one he was supposed to look after.
Mina pulled her jacket from where it had been sitting, on the back of her chair, and tossed it over her arm. Gourd seemed off into another zoning session of his. She shook her head even at the most dangerous situations of there he always seemed to keep a carefree look about him and his attitude. Mina smiled maybe that's why she hung around him so much she felt more comfortable, even if she could take out those jerks from off the streets who thought she was weak and could be mugged.
"Madame," said a voice in her ear so she jumped out of her thought. "You do not have to worry about paying the bill. The woman who was sitting with you earlier has paid," the waiter said overlooking Mina as if he never expected her to be able to afford a place like this in her dreams.
"Thank you for informing me. My partner and I will be leaving now back to our office, have a tip," she said smugly flipping a coin up into the air that the waiter caught with much speed like a mouse, a rat would gather his food for the day. He looked to Mina then with an expression of surprise turned to hatred he slinked off back into the café.
Mina smiling at her daily triumph turned to and looked at Gourd with her hand on her hips she shook her head. She walk over to the table and levitated her knee till it was touching the rim then she gave it a jolt up causing Gourd, who had his chair tilted and was using the table as support, to fall backwards. Gourd and the chair had a nice talk with the floor. Mina strolled over to him and leaned down so her hair was dangling in his face.
"Come on. Let's get back to the office ." Before Mina could finish her sentence Gourd sat right up smacking his forehead right into Mina's.
"Oh sorry," he said smiling a bit rubbing his forehead where they had collided. Gourd went over to pat her shoulder and get up but not realizing that when he went to pat her shoulder she had been facing him and he had ended up patting her chest.
Everyone that was sitting outside on the patio turned their heads after the loud thump they had heard only to see a furious red-head stomping off, her face brighter than her hair cursing as she went, and a large blonde man semi-unconscious sprawled on the ground.
***
Carla looked out the window longingly as she passed the villagers in the market. No of them seemed to be aware of her gazing. The carriage hit another bump and she was sent into the air a few inches only to land back on the sat seats.
Mills eye's rested on Carla, she seemed troubled. No doubt with all this death in her life it must be troubling her out of her mind. He was on the opposite side of the coach from her. Mills moved closer so there knees were touching, this brought Carla out of her troubled thoughts. He clasped her hands in his and held them.
"Don't worry Carla dear. Everything will be all right. There is no needing of Miss Inverse to interfere we already have someone ."
"But Mills . You know I can't stand him, there's something eerie about him and he's a big jerk!" She pleaded hoping the Mills would give in.
Mills stare became more of an angered and stern instead of his kind and gentle one.
"Our detective is a very highly educated man and well respected in his line of work. I trust him with my life, you should learn to respect him," Mills began to speak more tranquilly now taking his hand out and placing it on Carla's cheek. "Please understand this is for your well-being only." Carla turned her head away and shut her eyes, looking quite tart, causing Mills to sigh.
He leaned back letting his back sink into the cushioned seat. He prayed silently for Carla's approval of their protector . and ally.
***
Glasses rang out as they where clinked together, the contents slopping out over the rims of the mugs.
The bar was a bit rowdy tonight.
Mina slid down into a stool at the bar. She looked over her shoulder to see Gourd sit himself down at a circular table. Mina, same as her companion, was now dressed in a new garb as not to stand out . to much.
"I like the hat, Miss. It's very worn looking," said a childish voice from her right.
"That's the point Frenz. I'm glad it's apparently worked," Mina said pulling the hat off her head with gloved hands the running her hands through her hair then placing the cap back on.
"I might add that your whole costume is very authentic."
"Keep it down. I'm trying not to get any attention."
"Oh, sorry Miss. You must be on a case the, right?"
"You got it kid, but of course you knew that. You cease to amaze me why you ask questions to what you know the answer to," Mina said hoping to maybe learn his secret. She looked to the young boy sitting beside her but his ocean like eyes didn't' say anything. Mina just ruffled his hair and leaned back.
The musicians that were on a momentary break started up again, letting a jazzy sound illuminate the bar. Mina tapped her finger to the beat on the counter as the bartender made his way to her and the dark haired child. He was a fairly large man who had a small spot of hair on the top and small mustache. He was wiping the inside of a bottle with his apron as he placed him self in front of the two.
"How can I 'elp ya sir," he asked in his deep voice, that held a thick accent, addressing Mina. A vein appeared on her temple but she held her anger in very well.
"Two pints, sir," replied Frenz before Mina could say anything. The bartender looked to his right to see a young boy looking right back at him.
"Dun ya think yer a young 'un to have a pint," the bartender said his belly rolling with his laughter. Frenz smirked as he flipped three gold coins onto the counter. This stopped the man's laughter. He eyed the coins and picked them up with his free hand. After examining them and biting them to see if they were true to their appearance, he pocketed the coins.
"What will you be liking too sirs?"
"So Miss, did you come by to ask any questions or for a drink," the dark haired child asked swishing his large mug before drinking, his eyes still on Mina. Mina waited before answering. She tipped the top of her mug to her lips but not drinking any. She knew she had to watch how she worded her sentence or Frenz would twist it and take them off topic. Mina couldn't let that happen.
"Well now that you mention it, "Mina said he voice dropping to a whisper, but Frenz didn't lean closer, "I'm on a serious case. The Ul Copt's have employed us for this one. The thing is that so far all their deaths have been very odd, and they all seem to have anemic symptoms, but it's not. I'm pretty bent on them being poisoned by another visiting family member. But we have no proof so far. Have you heard anything about this spreading throughout the town?"
Frenz tapped his chin with his finger. His eyes were closed, as Mina raised her eyebrows looking at him for an answer or a riddle.
"Well Miss, I did hear some rumors spreading around. I didn't pay much attention to them, but I think they said something about a great number of people have been getting sick and dieing lately. That may confuse your case but that's all I got," Frenz said swinging his legs in his stool. He smiled at Mina.
Mina was concentrating on what he had just said; maybe she was wrong about Mills then. He couldn't be poisoning everyone . This was too confusing. Mina racked her brain trying to get some space to use some common sense in all of this. She was just about to turn to ask Frenz another question when a chair flew past her head. Mina ducked just in time.
"Hey what's the big idea," Mina yelled out then sighed. A brawl had started at the other side of the bar; most likely someone was cheating on a card game. The bar door opened letting a gust of wind pass through the bar like a fog. Mina shivered as the cold air pricked her skin. She turned to ask Frenz another question only to find an empty stool. Mina got up from her chair leaving a tip right by her glass. Mina had her hand on the door when she realized that Gourd was still here . somewhere. Spinning around Mina's eyes fell right on Gourd's table.
It was surrounded by a group of card players and girls, Mina's eyes twitched.
"Well I think I win fellas," said the skeletal looking man as he placed his cards down on the table. The other around the table groaned as the man greedily bent over with his spindly arms and dragged the coins to him. Gourd looked at the other guy's hand and scratched his head.
"I was sure . oh well good game," he said kindly holding out his hand. The man, still clutching his won coins, suspiciously glanced at Gourd before sticking his bony hand out to shake. The girls sitting around Gourd smiled.
"Isn't he such a gentleman," they whispered to one another edging closer to Gourd. The other men gave there silent death wishes to him. As soon as Gourd grasped the man's hand he gave it a whole heartedly shake causing the hidden cards that had been in the man's sleeve to fall out across the table.
"It's not nice to cheat," Gourd said letting go of the cheater's hand. The man had a look of terror on his face as the other three men turned to glance at him. He gulped and stood up out of his chair.
"N-now it's not what you think . I needed that money to feed my family," he said trying to sneak away from the table his beady eyes bouncing around in his sockets trying to find an escape. The other men weren't too happy none the less to see they had been cheated. Each of them towered in height over the shriveling man.
Gourd sighed as the three men pounced on the bony man. Gourd pushed back his chair and was about to help the man before he was brutally beaten when a powerful smack on the back of his head sent him face first into the table.
"Gourd you idiot!! I said to stay low, not to get into a fight!" Mina scolded looking down at him. Most of the girls who had been surrounding the table had now backed off staring unbelievably at this person.
"Uhhh," was the only sound that Gourd could make out now at his unconscious state. Mina, shaking her head in disapproval, walked over to him and clutched the back of his collar. Mina looked at his face, but he was completely out of it. One eye was open and his mouth was open and he was drooling.
"Way to make a mess of your self," Mina thought as she trudges over to his feet and picked both of them up under her arms and turned around. The girls from the card table watched as the red-head man drag away the blonde hair man behind her by his feet.
By now the bar was in up-most state of chaos. As soon as that man had been attacked some stuff had been thrown around and hitting other tables. Like a chain link reaction it was a complete brawl fest. Even the musicians had stopped playing and were retreating using their instruments as shields or weapons if a drunken man decided to start a fight. The Guard would be here soon to clean things up and it would be better no to get caught up because they knew Mina's face. Mina walked normally as if nothing were much happening, she knew when to duck or side step and thus so far resulting her not getting hit by anything yet. Though Gourd was less unfortunate, being dragged behind and being as tall as he was, he occasionally was stepped on or got hit by a falling object. This was saying much because these people weren't exactly stepping lightly to avoid stepping on Gourd or just tossing chairs or glasses lightly. But Mina was confident with Gourd's stamina for staying asleep through this even though it would probably hurt in the morning. The door was in plain sight and Mina was determined to reach it, just as she was two steps and drags away a large hand clasped on her shoulder. Letting out an exasperated sigh Mina dropped Gourd's legs and turned around.
"Dun think you'llsssh bee going with outs without a fights," the broad but drunk man said. Mina lifted her hand up, in the process knocking his hand over from her shoulder, and wiped the spit from her cheek.
"Disgusting," was all Mina had to say to infuriate the drunk to the brink of exploding. Mina was able to duck swiftly and nimbly as he try a sloppy punch only staggering forward. Sticking out her foot Mina was very successful in her tripping. The man fell face first into the floor. Next to the large thud there was a resounding crack in the floor. Mina rolled her eyes and was about to lean down to pick up Gourd's feet when a large fist came out from the left. Mina only had time to duck but she still felt more so or less pain when the person's knuckles skimmed the top of her head and fell on top of her knocking the wind out of her. She tired to squirm and kick her way out but the lack of air was her first concern. Her eyes widen as she could not longer feel anything in her left leg. Mina cursed as she beat on the unconscious man's chest. She needed to get out .
"I don't want it to end like this! God . this is completely idiocy. Calm down Mina think, just need to call out for Gourd and everything should be all right," Mina's thoughts were soon ceased as the burly man was flung off of her. With a relived sigh Mina shut her eyes. "Thanks Gourd I thought you'd never come."
The hideously loud breath made Mina groaned as she opened her eyes to see the hideous reality, which grew louder every second. Mina painfully rolled to her side quickly as a loud stepping sound was heard right next to were she just was. She sighed and steadies her self about to take a jump up. When a large sharp pain shot through her left leg she had to grab onto the upturned chair next to her so she didn't land back on the floor.
"Bloody hell!" was all Mina was able to murmur. The sound of a sword being un-sheathed made her cringe; this was going to be a painful night. Just as Mina looked up she saw the man's figure crumple to the ground. About to question what was going on Mina's felt a powerful force wrap around her waist and pull her back. Her first thoughts were it was Gourd then when she opened her eyes Mina gave a gasp that only gave her a sharp pain in her lungs.
Everything around Mina was black. It was like a dark mist blanketed her. Mina tired to shout out to her partner but her voice seemed to be trapped by the thick fog that encircled her. Mina lifted her arm out to grab a hold of something but it was like grabbing the fog, then she realized something her leg was fine now there was no more pain, as she noticed that a slow hum began to fill her eyes calming her. Washing completely over her Mina struggled to keep her eyes opened but knew it was better to not fight. Just to fall asleep and relax.
A quick breath of cold musty air made Mina fling here eyes open wide. Turning about quickly Mina saw the cracked, damp coble stone at her feet and the closed shops at her side and the Tavern in front of her and the black midnight sky speckled with stars above her. All Mina could do was stand there mouth agape and eyes bobbing around. She jumped as a hand clapped down on her shoulder. After what happened the first time Mina turned around with a balled fist and let her arm shoot out into the persons' face. Opening her eyes Mina bit her bottom lip.
"Gourd! What are you .? This is really weird, uhhh Gourd are you ok? Sorry about that, you just startled me," Mina ran over to Gourd and kneeled down beside him. She rolled her eyes as Gourd sat up rubbing his head with on hand.
"I'll remember not to do that again," was all he said smiling at Mina. Mina smiled back a tint of red crawled onto her face. She noticed this but it was better not to make a commotion of it. Standing up she held out her hand which Gourd took standing up.
"Hey Gourd?"
"Yeah Mina?"
"Oh, never mind. Let's go home it's late."
"Ok Mina."
Frenz swung his feet back and forth from the building across the street. He watched as the two detectives walked out from the human eye's view. A twisted smirk appeared on his face. Then his innocent face mask came back into effect as he looked around for any onlookers. Frenz grasped onto the ankle of the body that was lying lifelessly next to him. Looking at it he smiled sweetly.
"Now it wouldn't be any use having her die yet would it? Thanks for the talk though it was great getting to know you," he told the limp body. "But now it's time you go I have other things to do." Standing up still holding the ankle he dragged the body till it was dangling off the ledge. Staring at his victim's face, Frenz tilted his head and giggled.
Frenz turned and walked away as he heard shouts and yells from the Tavern across the street. The he walked off into the shadows letting the people of the inn to find a child's body in a mangled heap on the ground.
***
Boo: Bonjourno, it's been a while . I mean a really long time now since I've updated but I'm not dead so don't worry. Sorry for the late updates I'll try to keep them closer together . but anyways. Hopefully somebody know what's going on, I don't want to have lost my readers. And you Slothy Shh cause you know.