Authors note: I would just like to take this time to say thanks to my
editor and supporter evilducktape. Thanks for encouraging me!
The procession of characters scrambled down the stairs with Arianna in the lead, her sister, Katherine, the Aquarius not far behind her dragging Allie by the hand. Directly behind the three ladies came Victor feeling quite anxious. He was so wrapped up in his own thoughts that he didn't see the girls skid to a stop and bumped into the little Aries. He murmured an apology in return for her sharp stare and jutting of lip and looked up to see what had caused the sudden pause in their course to the conference room.
Arianna was sitting on the floor lifting her large brown eyes to the two towering figures in front of her. The door to the conference was open with two men standing on either side of it. To the left stood the placid Pisces staring out into space taking no notice of them. Victor had always thought the Pisces, Tidus by name, a rather odd boy. What he had also thought was strange was that he had expected and maybe hoped that Tidus and Erik would become friends. There wasn't much of an age difference; Erik was sixteen and Tidus was eighteen. In fact, they seemed to have a lot in common and if you saw them you could almost mistake them for brothers. Both were tall and pale with black hair, Tidus' streaked with silver. They did have their differences, while Erik seemed to follow a rule that he should always where black Tidus preferred to wear blue, silver, and green. The colors of the sea and his peculiar eyes. They were quite fascinating eyes of bluish green with silver fish swimming around in opposite directions.
At the moment he was dressed in a dark blue sweater and gray pants, his arms folded across his chest as he leaned back against the door dreaming up some new idea. The Pisces was always a dreamer very much unlike the Scorpio's focused determination. While Tidus contented to think of things, Erik got them done. Maybe it seems that because of these differences they'd be sure to annoy each other but Victor felt their bond to be art. Tidus was a great artist, no one could dispute that and even Erik had expressed some interest in a few of his cousin's paintings. He, too, liked to sketch from time to time and Victor had seen that he was far from an amateur artist. For some reason or other, they rarely spoke to each other which was really a pity. Victor couldn't understand it. It couldn't have been that Tidus was prejudiced against the Scorpio, no, the Pisces was above most of the wicked emotions of man. And Erik had never expressed a dislike for him either. Quite the opposite, in fact. It was puzzling but perhaps it was just that Erik liked to be alone, however Victor had always felt that it was healthy to have friends. Why couldn't Erik see that?
The man to the right was one Victor had known quite well. Looking into the black face of his old friend made him feel lonely for the times they had together before. No, he wouldn't think of that but it was hard not to. Darius and Victor had been the closest of friends growing up. Darius was particularly devoted to Victor because he had been literally the 'black sheep' of the family. Darius' mother had married a black man. Darius was the only African American in their family and was at first an outcast. But since Victor had befriended him everyone seemed to except him. They both shared a passion for justice although Darius was more interested in punishing the evil rather than forgiving like Victor. But then Victor committed an injustice and Darius wanted nothing to do with him. It increased Victor's feeling of guilt to know that he wasn't the only one to change after that. No one ever heard Darius laugh now. Most of the time he kept silent and stern. The very model of a holy and law abiding man showing no emotion.
Victor's guilt didn't end there, it never ended. It would spread and attach to everything. He even felt that his very friendship and unhealthy obsession was all a lie. Did he really even care about the scorpion or was it that he saw his old friend in him and didn't want to lose him again. It's a horrible feeling when a friend turns a cold shoulder to you. It's like being punched in the stomach so hard that you are completely winded, unconscious of things around you, unable to speak, and feeling pain every second of it. It made the Libra sick to even think of the feeling and more so when he thought of Erik. Was it true what he thought? Did he only feel protective of him because he felt he had his friend again. Now that he thought of it, Erik had one thing that stood out most when he thought of Darius. A need to punish the wicked. It was frightening to hear Erik speak with such relish of his idea of justice.
He supposed there was reason behind it. In the eyes of Darius and Erik, the wicked meant all those who had oppressed them unjustly because of their differences. How different might they both be now if they had been shown kindness earlier? It might not be too late but what hope was there? He now looked up wearily to meet the disapproving stare of Darius, his muscular jaw clenched tightly.
"Do you always arrive late for meetings of importance?" He asked shortly, addressing Victor. Arianna stood up, a pout on her face as she pushed her chestnut curl out of her face.
"Don't be a bully, Cousin Darius. We aren't Mercury and we got here as soon as we could. Honest." She said, holding up her right hand. Darius only grunted and motioned them to enter. Romulus, Remus, and Selena were already seated at a long table and there was someone sitting next to Electra that was familiar to all. He was a tall, thin, withered old man with wild white hair. Black eyes shone out gleefully out of his wrinkled face and his mouth was set in a Cheshire cat grin. Katherine suddenly broke into a smile.
"Uncle Fredrick!" She called out in surprise and released her grip on Allie's hand so as to greet him. He smiled showing teeth sharp and yellowing. You wouldn't believe he was the family's dentist.
"Well, it's good to see you Katherine. Have you been taking care of your perfect teeth?" He spoke with a German accent and a slight lisp, adding effect to his sinisterly sweet appearance. The Aquarius smiled proudly showing off her teeth. He nodded with approval.
"It's good to see you've been a good girl.unlike some of you who I haven't seen in years." He said scanning the rest of them. Before anyone could ask what he was doing here, Electra motioned for them all to be seated. It was an interesting group that gathered in the conference that day to be sure. All was uncomfortably quiet until Fredrick, the dentist, broke the silence.
"It seems that almost everyone is here except two. One, we're waiting for but where's Victoria?" Asked the Cancer casually.
Victoria was the Virgo. She was a lovely sight to see with long white hair and delicate white skin. She always wore white and resembled a porcelain doll being so fragile. She was the picture of innocence and although she was seventeen, acted very much like a child. But she was just as rarely seen as Erik had been.
"The poor dear is not feeling very well today." Answered Electra, sympathetically and then they waited. After fifteen minutes, the door opened and Erik entered.
"Wonderful. Now that everyone's here." He stopped and frowned at seeing Fredrick. "Well, almost everyone really is here. I must say I'm surprised at how thoroughly you follow orders, Lion." He said dryly. Selena scowled and shaped her hands into fists on her lap. Ignoring her obvious hatred for him, as always, he went on to explain his discovery. At the end of his account, he was met with mixed reactions, particularly noticeable was Selena's laughter. It was his turn to scowl.
"What may I ask is so funny?"
"You-you actually expect us to-to-to believe that the Chinese zodiac exist? Honestly, how stupid do you think we are?" She gasped out, her face turning red. No one else was sure of how to take this. It was impossible but the Scorpio wasn't a fool, contrary to popular belief.
"Well, I must congratulate you on your remarkable discovery, scorpion." Electra said silkily. Selena choked back her laughter.
"You don't actually believe him, do you?"
"At the moment, I pass no judgement. We'll investigate it immediately. If what he says it's true than we'd be fools to ignore it." She said sweetly but she turned to face Erik with a serious expression on her face. "However, I'm giving you a chance to say you were mistaken. The Scorpio isn't the most trustworthy and I'd hate for you to disappoint me. I'm warning you now that if we find you've lied you shall be punished accordingly."
Everyone was astounded by her words. Electra had never punished anyone, what would she decide upon if the need came for it? Erik didn't even flinch. He just stared defiantly at her with his black eyes.
"I saw what I've seen and I won't deny it." He said. Just then his cell phone rang.
"Ha! Now you know how it feels!" Said Selena smugly. He answered it and taking his notebook from his pocket, scribbled some words down. He then put it away and slid the notebook down to Electra. She picked it up and studied it and then said with a tone of finality.
"Here is our course of action. Katherine, I want you to find information on a family called," she paused and checked the notebook. "Sohma. Anything at all. Selena, Remus, and Tidus will continue to search for what we originally came for. And since, I don't suppose you'd mind watching over Alexandra would you Victor?" She smiled as he shuddered under her gaze and as Allie cringed at hearing her real name. "Then there is this, a meeting with their head of the family tomorrow at their main house." She said holding up the black notebook.
"Naturally, I'll accompany you." Erik volunteered but Electra shook her head.
"Don't be ridiculous. I'm not going and neither are you." She said, her voice filled with laughter. Erik stiffened and glared at her.
"Then just who do you suggest should?"
Electra rose from her chair and sauntered behind Arianna's chair. Erik lost his temper and stood up.
"What! You can't send a girl!" At this Selena stood up as well.
"Oh, you did not just say that! You know maybe you haven't heard, but there is a such thing as women's rights and equality. Maybe someone should teach you a lesson that girls can do anything boys can."
"Shut up!" He snapped angrily at her. Electra was quite enjoying the row until Tidus spoke.
"Selena, I'm sure that's not what he meant. He probably was only concerned as to whether she should go alone and I don't think it's a wise idea."
"Well, of course not!" Electra said, pouting her red lips. "What do you think of me, Tidus? Darius will go with her."
"But she doesn't know how to act" Erik protested. "What's she going to say?"
"Oh, don't. Now what do you all think of me? I regret that I don't see enough of you all but that doesn't mean that I don't know how you act around each other." Said Electra coyly. She put her arms around Arianna and smiled at everyone. "Now this girl is sweet, I know, but I also know that she can be crafty too."
"Then why don't you send the Gemini if you want craftiness?" Erik interrupted. Electra's head shot up and she spat back at him.
"Don't you dare interrupt me you impertinent little arachnid! She'll do as she's told and speaking of which I'm sure you're only to eager to do your part, aren't you?" She strode briskly over to him, standing so as to leave only a few inches between them and her storming purple eyes met his black and gold ones in anger. She attempted to compose herself and smiled venomously a moment before turning to the others, who were sitting at the edge of their seats.
"Well, I suggest that this meeting come to a close. You'll all do as you have been instructed and Arianna," and she met the bull's gaze as well. "I think you'd better go to your room and try to look as pretty as you can and practice what you'll say for tomorrow. You'll get help if you need it." Electra turned and opened the door snapping her fingers on the way out. Only two knew what that meant and as everyone got up to leave one of them detained Arianna.
"Why did you say that? Don't you think I can do anything right?" Demanded the frustrated Taurus, her cheeks red with embarrassment. Erik just stared at her without feeling. "Look," she continued. "I didn't volunteer."
"I know." He answered his eyes focused on hers. Being watched under his penetrating gaze made her uncomfortable and she cast her eyes down to the red carpeted floor and shifted her weight from one foot to the other.
"Well," she took a chance and looked back at him. "What do you want?" Arianna wasn't sure but she felt certain that a look of surprise came over his face. But like all of his emotions, she only caught a glimpse of his startled expression.
"I want." He drew in a short breath and sighed, tucking a loose strand of her hair behind her ear. His hand lingered a moment just a centimeter or two away from her cheek and Arianna felt her heart begin to race and the hairs on the back of her neck rise. But he let his hand fall to his side and said in the same almost threatening tone:
"I want you to be careful, alright?" And with that he left with her following but while she went to her room to take a cold shower he went to the room where Tidus and Darius were residing. As he turned to hallway he saw Tidus slipping out of his room with a case and some brushes under his arm. He started to lightly but briskly walk down the corridor in the opposite directions but froze in disappointment as he heard Erik's silvery voice.
"You weren't thinking of leaving without me were you Tidus?"
"Not in the least." The Pisces answered back pleasantly over his shoulder. "It's just that I thought she'd wish to see you immediately." Erik simply shrugged.
"Why not postpone the 'horrors' that await me?" The scorpion caught up and walked directly behind him annoying Tidus to the extreme. Erik glanced at the case and asked with the same courtesy in his words.
"You're carrying an awful lot don't you think? Perhaps I should help you?"
"No!" Tidus shot back firmly, regretting the force of his words. Erik just frowned and replied sarcastically.
"Do forgive me! Wouldn't want to contaminate the artist's equipment."
They were silent the rest of the walk to Electra's room leaving Tidus to think to himself. He didn't hate the Scorpio, he barely knew him! What he did know was that Erik was a great artist like himself. You'd think just like Victor, that this common interest would have bonded them but it was the very reason Tidus preferred not to fraternize with Erik.
Tidus had always been devoted to art. It was a way to express his feelings and creative imagination. He not only painted to express himself but his ideas as well to others. The Pisces didn't think like other people, he was above the worldly needs, troubles, and so forth. All he needed was something to create and nothing else! His pictures and painting showed a peaceful world of color and you could just see the carefree nature of the artist in them. Everyone who saw Tidus' paintings were simply entranced just as they were by his unusual eyes. He was like a great being with no worries at all but then he'd met Erik and now he was upset to find that he was experiencing human irritation.
He was greatly pleased to find that there was another artist in the family even if he was greatly hated. There were a few others who liked to draw. Arianna wasn't that bad and neither was Remus but he hadn't expected to find the Scorpio had talent to match his own! It wasn't that he thought himself superior but he had never seen anything like Erik's paintings and sketches. There was pure genius behind them, Tidus was sure, just like his own. He especially admired a method of shading that Erik used but he never bothered to ask how he did it because after a while he began to regret ever having seen the scorpion's paintings. He wished he'd never seen them, he wished them destroyed because to put it simply, he was greatly disturbed by them.
No words could best describe the beauty of Tidus' paintings just as none could describe the darkness of Erik's. At first, Tidus had found the images of sea creatures, dragons and griffins to be hypnotizing. He, himself, was very proud of a dragon and warrior in a red background he had done. But all of Erik's paintings seemed to follow his code of dress. Everything was black. True to his spirit, all of his paintings were pictures of death stalking abroad, thieves hiding behind trees, and one particularly frightening portrait of the face of a dead man his eyes wide open. Even more disturbing was watching Erik actually creating them. Music blared loudly out of his stereo and he moved his paintbrush in a way that gave the impression that he was slashing through the canvas. He looked either mad or blind and sometimes he even used his hands to shaped his latest portrait of terror! The only painting that Tidus could look at without feeling sick was a picture of a bride. Despite the similar brush strokes, Tidus had refused to believe that Erik could imagine so lovely an image. It almost looked like you could reach out and feel the material of the white wedding gown, so detailed was it! However, Erik never failed to add something because even though the bride was beautiful it had no face and the background was gray giving it an eerie or maybe even lonely feel to it.
Right now, Tidus was commissioned by Electra to paint a portrait of her. He had been looking forward to it until he discovered that Erik would be there as well. The thing was he had no purpose there! He wasn't assisting Tidus on the painting, thankfully, and he wasn't in it either but Electra insisted on his being there. Tidus wasn't one to mind if his subjects wanted to talk but she hardly ever spoke a word to him! He would just sit on a stool watching or walking around the room, once or twice commenting on how the portrait was coming along. And that was another thing that annoyed Tidus. What right had he to criticize his work! Erik was good but not better than him, at least!
Tidus was grateful for one thing, though. The painting was almost finished and the hell was almost over. And who knew? Maybe he might get on better terms with Erik afterwards. That was something to look forward to. Yes, everything was going well once more. They reached Electra's room and were promptly admitted. She was already in position, sitting on a throne with red curtains hung in the background. A table with wine glasses and a fruit bowl was to one side and a globe to the other. In between sat Electra, proudly draped in a long black dress, her hair piled up and emerald jewelry dripping from her white throat and fingers. He set up his painting and laid his tool on the table. Erik took his normal seat across the room. After a few minutes, Electra spoke.
"I hope you're not too disappointed with that bull going instead." She asked casually.
"Not in the least." He responded, his arms crossed. Erik tilted his head to one side and inquired slowly. "However I don't believe you had time to say as to why and what I'm to do instead."
"You're to stay with me." She answered simply. "I'll believe they exist but I certainly don't want to walk into any danger. You'll stay here until Arianna and Darius return with positive news."
"And if they don't?"
Tidus paused and listened. They wouldn't notice from behind the portrait. He had never heard them talk like this was there any reason to expect danger? Was Erik planning something? But Tidus cleared his mind of such thoughts and continued to paint. That was ridiculous, the scorpion wouldn't cause any trouble. Electra had turned her head to face Erik.
"Then you'll be in a serious predicament. I'm already displeased with your behavior earlier so I wouldn't try anything funny."
"As if I would, madam." He replied innocently, slipping off the stool and coming to examine the portrait. Electra rose her head a little.
"Well, scorpion? How does it look?"
Erik pulled out a spy glass and looked at it more closely neither of them seeming to care what Tidus thought. Erik placed the spy glass on the table where Tidus kept his art supplies and stepped out from behind the portrait.
"It's an admirable piece of work. He does you great credit, madam." It was a good review but Tidus knew he wasn't satisfied.
"I appreciate your compliment but I think you feel that something is missing. Well, you're quite right, I feel it needs one last touch. I hope you don't mind Electra, but I happen to know that Erik has a great talent for shading and I wondered if you'd mind if he." He trailed off and Electra shook her head in allowance. Erik raised an eyebrow at the suggestion but took the brush he was handed and dipped it in purple and black. Tidus respectfully stood aside not wishing to see how he'd done it. It was his secret and it would be kept that way. In a few more minutes, Erik announced that he was finished and Tidus looked it over. His attention was immediately focused on the black dress. It was beautifully shaded and Tidus felt immense pride at the rest of his hard work. The thought entered his head that they made a good team together. Imagine his surprise when Electra, having come round to see the final result started screaming in disgust.
"What have you done!?!" She turned and pointed a long red fingernail at Erik. "You did this! You fiend, wicked creature! You ruined it! And you let him!" Electra addressed this last remark to Tidus and stormed out of the room in anger shouting obscenities. Tidus felt crushed. How could she not like it? It was a masterpiece. He looked at his creation again but couldn't find any flaws at first but there was a feeling that something was different. It was then he realized. The dress was different for one. The edges were sharper and the collar higher, giving her the appearance of a vampire. And on closer inspection, he saw to his horror that Electra's smile had turned sinister and her eyebrows arched more over malicious eyes. Erik had left his signature mark of terror on his creation, his child! Anger and hatred was the second and third human emotion he had felt after meeting Erik. Tidus advanced threateningly towards Erik who seemed not to have even noticed Electra's accusation or his distress.
"What have you done to it?" Tidus demanded harshly.
"Made it more realistic. You know you really should keep your head out of the clouds or else you'll never avoid tragedy." Tidus disliked the remark but there was something in the way Erik had said it that only caused his anger to increase. Not even in control of himself he threw a punch towards that mocking face but in a second he found himself on the floor staring at the ceiling. Erik soon blocked his view as he leaned over him.
"You see? Now there's another example." Erik turned to leave but Tidus rose quickly to his feet and attacked once more. This wasn't like him at all but he was sick of the scorpion always mocking and teasing. This time he avoided get flipped by ducking out of the way and splashing paint on Erik. The Scorpio stared open mouthed at the Pisces.
"God, what is wrong with you? I'm warning you if you come near me again you'll be sorry."
But Tidus rushed at him again but Erik moved to the side and spun around to face him, grasping a bottle of black and red paint. Tidus froze in terror and held out his hand as Erik began to pour the bottles' contents on his left hand.
"No don't, please! Please I beg of you, I can still fix it just don't ruin my work!"
"Oh, I wouldn't dream of destroying another person's work." Erik said placing the bottles down. Tidus relaxed a little but stiffened as Erik added:
"If the person was decent." Tidus attempted to protest but Erik wouldn't let him even start. "Oh, you think you've been polite but you not only act like everyone else by shunning me but you go a step further and attack me. What the hell do I owe you?"
Tidus tried to stop him but it was too late. Erik had smeared the paint all over the painting scratching it with his nails. Tidus began to shake terribly and his breath became harsher.
"I'm.I'm."He stuttered.
"Sorry?" Erik volunteered, sweetly.
"I'm going to kill you!" And Tidus rushed at him once more. Erik snatched the painting and attempted to smash it over his head but missed. Tidus put all his energy into one punch knocking the wind out of Erik and also knocking him into the scenery causing the curtain to fall. Tidus tried to jump on him but Erik twisted around and pinned Tidus to the ground proceeding to hit him continually in the face. Suddenly Erik felt arms around his neck and spun around pinning his second attacker only to find himself on top of Arianna. Tidus tried to spring up from behind but he soon felt the arms of Katherine and Victor restrain him.
"What are you both trying to do, kill each other?" Asked Selena. Erik had gotten to his feet and gestured to Tidus. He's the one trying to murder me!" Selena smiled.
"Alright Tidus!" And she held out her hand to pat him on the back but held it back as she met Victor's disapproving stare.
"He ruined my painting!" Tidus said, trying to keep back tears.
"Erik, why'd you do that?" Arianna asked softly. Erik turned to her angrily.
"Oh fine! Blame it on the scorpion! He provoked me! What do you expect me to do?"
"Apologize." Was her only answer which met with his disapproval.
"What for? He."
"Both of you apologize now!" Came the surprisingly firm voice of Victor. "I'm very ashamed of both of you, fighting to death over a painting!"
"But you don't understand!" Tidus began but Victor held up his hand to silence him.
"Nothing is so important as to tear apart a family. Honestly I expected better of both of you. Now apologize!"
They both reluctantly apologized and Victor left with Erik following him and arguing all the way to their room.
"How dare you make a fool out of me Victor?" Erik hissed.
"How dare I? Erik if I didn't make you both apologize than all the family would be down upon you. Damn it, I care more about your life more than your pride, even if you don't!"
"The weak are finding their voices." Erik mumbled inaudibly.
"What?"
Erik sighed and changed the subject. "I myself am feeling quite fatigued, my head clouded with premonitions. We've a bit of a day ahead of us. We'd best get our rest. "
The procession of characters scrambled down the stairs with Arianna in the lead, her sister, Katherine, the Aquarius not far behind her dragging Allie by the hand. Directly behind the three ladies came Victor feeling quite anxious. He was so wrapped up in his own thoughts that he didn't see the girls skid to a stop and bumped into the little Aries. He murmured an apology in return for her sharp stare and jutting of lip and looked up to see what had caused the sudden pause in their course to the conference room.
Arianna was sitting on the floor lifting her large brown eyes to the two towering figures in front of her. The door to the conference was open with two men standing on either side of it. To the left stood the placid Pisces staring out into space taking no notice of them. Victor had always thought the Pisces, Tidus by name, a rather odd boy. What he had also thought was strange was that he had expected and maybe hoped that Tidus and Erik would become friends. There wasn't much of an age difference; Erik was sixteen and Tidus was eighteen. In fact, they seemed to have a lot in common and if you saw them you could almost mistake them for brothers. Both were tall and pale with black hair, Tidus' streaked with silver. They did have their differences, while Erik seemed to follow a rule that he should always where black Tidus preferred to wear blue, silver, and green. The colors of the sea and his peculiar eyes. They were quite fascinating eyes of bluish green with silver fish swimming around in opposite directions.
At the moment he was dressed in a dark blue sweater and gray pants, his arms folded across his chest as he leaned back against the door dreaming up some new idea. The Pisces was always a dreamer very much unlike the Scorpio's focused determination. While Tidus contented to think of things, Erik got them done. Maybe it seems that because of these differences they'd be sure to annoy each other but Victor felt their bond to be art. Tidus was a great artist, no one could dispute that and even Erik had expressed some interest in a few of his cousin's paintings. He, too, liked to sketch from time to time and Victor had seen that he was far from an amateur artist. For some reason or other, they rarely spoke to each other which was really a pity. Victor couldn't understand it. It couldn't have been that Tidus was prejudiced against the Scorpio, no, the Pisces was above most of the wicked emotions of man. And Erik had never expressed a dislike for him either. Quite the opposite, in fact. It was puzzling but perhaps it was just that Erik liked to be alone, however Victor had always felt that it was healthy to have friends. Why couldn't Erik see that?
The man to the right was one Victor had known quite well. Looking into the black face of his old friend made him feel lonely for the times they had together before. No, he wouldn't think of that but it was hard not to. Darius and Victor had been the closest of friends growing up. Darius was particularly devoted to Victor because he had been literally the 'black sheep' of the family. Darius' mother had married a black man. Darius was the only African American in their family and was at first an outcast. But since Victor had befriended him everyone seemed to except him. They both shared a passion for justice although Darius was more interested in punishing the evil rather than forgiving like Victor. But then Victor committed an injustice and Darius wanted nothing to do with him. It increased Victor's feeling of guilt to know that he wasn't the only one to change after that. No one ever heard Darius laugh now. Most of the time he kept silent and stern. The very model of a holy and law abiding man showing no emotion.
Victor's guilt didn't end there, it never ended. It would spread and attach to everything. He even felt that his very friendship and unhealthy obsession was all a lie. Did he really even care about the scorpion or was it that he saw his old friend in him and didn't want to lose him again. It's a horrible feeling when a friend turns a cold shoulder to you. It's like being punched in the stomach so hard that you are completely winded, unconscious of things around you, unable to speak, and feeling pain every second of it. It made the Libra sick to even think of the feeling and more so when he thought of Erik. Was it true what he thought? Did he only feel protective of him because he felt he had his friend again. Now that he thought of it, Erik had one thing that stood out most when he thought of Darius. A need to punish the wicked. It was frightening to hear Erik speak with such relish of his idea of justice.
He supposed there was reason behind it. In the eyes of Darius and Erik, the wicked meant all those who had oppressed them unjustly because of their differences. How different might they both be now if they had been shown kindness earlier? It might not be too late but what hope was there? He now looked up wearily to meet the disapproving stare of Darius, his muscular jaw clenched tightly.
"Do you always arrive late for meetings of importance?" He asked shortly, addressing Victor. Arianna stood up, a pout on her face as she pushed her chestnut curl out of her face.
"Don't be a bully, Cousin Darius. We aren't Mercury and we got here as soon as we could. Honest." She said, holding up her right hand. Darius only grunted and motioned them to enter. Romulus, Remus, and Selena were already seated at a long table and there was someone sitting next to Electra that was familiar to all. He was a tall, thin, withered old man with wild white hair. Black eyes shone out gleefully out of his wrinkled face and his mouth was set in a Cheshire cat grin. Katherine suddenly broke into a smile.
"Uncle Fredrick!" She called out in surprise and released her grip on Allie's hand so as to greet him. He smiled showing teeth sharp and yellowing. You wouldn't believe he was the family's dentist.
"Well, it's good to see you Katherine. Have you been taking care of your perfect teeth?" He spoke with a German accent and a slight lisp, adding effect to his sinisterly sweet appearance. The Aquarius smiled proudly showing off her teeth. He nodded with approval.
"It's good to see you've been a good girl.unlike some of you who I haven't seen in years." He said scanning the rest of them. Before anyone could ask what he was doing here, Electra motioned for them all to be seated. It was an interesting group that gathered in the conference that day to be sure. All was uncomfortably quiet until Fredrick, the dentist, broke the silence.
"It seems that almost everyone is here except two. One, we're waiting for but where's Victoria?" Asked the Cancer casually.
Victoria was the Virgo. She was a lovely sight to see with long white hair and delicate white skin. She always wore white and resembled a porcelain doll being so fragile. She was the picture of innocence and although she was seventeen, acted very much like a child. But she was just as rarely seen as Erik had been.
"The poor dear is not feeling very well today." Answered Electra, sympathetically and then they waited. After fifteen minutes, the door opened and Erik entered.
"Wonderful. Now that everyone's here." He stopped and frowned at seeing Fredrick. "Well, almost everyone really is here. I must say I'm surprised at how thoroughly you follow orders, Lion." He said dryly. Selena scowled and shaped her hands into fists on her lap. Ignoring her obvious hatred for him, as always, he went on to explain his discovery. At the end of his account, he was met with mixed reactions, particularly noticeable was Selena's laughter. It was his turn to scowl.
"What may I ask is so funny?"
"You-you actually expect us to-to-to believe that the Chinese zodiac exist? Honestly, how stupid do you think we are?" She gasped out, her face turning red. No one else was sure of how to take this. It was impossible but the Scorpio wasn't a fool, contrary to popular belief.
"Well, I must congratulate you on your remarkable discovery, scorpion." Electra said silkily. Selena choked back her laughter.
"You don't actually believe him, do you?"
"At the moment, I pass no judgement. We'll investigate it immediately. If what he says it's true than we'd be fools to ignore it." She said sweetly but she turned to face Erik with a serious expression on her face. "However, I'm giving you a chance to say you were mistaken. The Scorpio isn't the most trustworthy and I'd hate for you to disappoint me. I'm warning you now that if we find you've lied you shall be punished accordingly."
Everyone was astounded by her words. Electra had never punished anyone, what would she decide upon if the need came for it? Erik didn't even flinch. He just stared defiantly at her with his black eyes.
"I saw what I've seen and I won't deny it." He said. Just then his cell phone rang.
"Ha! Now you know how it feels!" Said Selena smugly. He answered it and taking his notebook from his pocket, scribbled some words down. He then put it away and slid the notebook down to Electra. She picked it up and studied it and then said with a tone of finality.
"Here is our course of action. Katherine, I want you to find information on a family called," she paused and checked the notebook. "Sohma. Anything at all. Selena, Remus, and Tidus will continue to search for what we originally came for. And since, I don't suppose you'd mind watching over Alexandra would you Victor?" She smiled as he shuddered under her gaze and as Allie cringed at hearing her real name. "Then there is this, a meeting with their head of the family tomorrow at their main house." She said holding up the black notebook.
"Naturally, I'll accompany you." Erik volunteered but Electra shook her head.
"Don't be ridiculous. I'm not going and neither are you." She said, her voice filled with laughter. Erik stiffened and glared at her.
"Then just who do you suggest should?"
Electra rose from her chair and sauntered behind Arianna's chair. Erik lost his temper and stood up.
"What! You can't send a girl!" At this Selena stood up as well.
"Oh, you did not just say that! You know maybe you haven't heard, but there is a such thing as women's rights and equality. Maybe someone should teach you a lesson that girls can do anything boys can."
"Shut up!" He snapped angrily at her. Electra was quite enjoying the row until Tidus spoke.
"Selena, I'm sure that's not what he meant. He probably was only concerned as to whether she should go alone and I don't think it's a wise idea."
"Well, of course not!" Electra said, pouting her red lips. "What do you think of me, Tidus? Darius will go with her."
"But she doesn't know how to act" Erik protested. "What's she going to say?"
"Oh, don't. Now what do you all think of me? I regret that I don't see enough of you all but that doesn't mean that I don't know how you act around each other." Said Electra coyly. She put her arms around Arianna and smiled at everyone. "Now this girl is sweet, I know, but I also know that she can be crafty too."
"Then why don't you send the Gemini if you want craftiness?" Erik interrupted. Electra's head shot up and she spat back at him.
"Don't you dare interrupt me you impertinent little arachnid! She'll do as she's told and speaking of which I'm sure you're only to eager to do your part, aren't you?" She strode briskly over to him, standing so as to leave only a few inches between them and her storming purple eyes met his black and gold ones in anger. She attempted to compose herself and smiled venomously a moment before turning to the others, who were sitting at the edge of their seats.
"Well, I suggest that this meeting come to a close. You'll all do as you have been instructed and Arianna," and she met the bull's gaze as well. "I think you'd better go to your room and try to look as pretty as you can and practice what you'll say for tomorrow. You'll get help if you need it." Electra turned and opened the door snapping her fingers on the way out. Only two knew what that meant and as everyone got up to leave one of them detained Arianna.
"Why did you say that? Don't you think I can do anything right?" Demanded the frustrated Taurus, her cheeks red with embarrassment. Erik just stared at her without feeling. "Look," she continued. "I didn't volunteer."
"I know." He answered his eyes focused on hers. Being watched under his penetrating gaze made her uncomfortable and she cast her eyes down to the red carpeted floor and shifted her weight from one foot to the other.
"Well," she took a chance and looked back at him. "What do you want?" Arianna wasn't sure but she felt certain that a look of surprise came over his face. But like all of his emotions, she only caught a glimpse of his startled expression.
"I want." He drew in a short breath and sighed, tucking a loose strand of her hair behind her ear. His hand lingered a moment just a centimeter or two away from her cheek and Arianna felt her heart begin to race and the hairs on the back of her neck rise. But he let his hand fall to his side and said in the same almost threatening tone:
"I want you to be careful, alright?" And with that he left with her following but while she went to her room to take a cold shower he went to the room where Tidus and Darius were residing. As he turned to hallway he saw Tidus slipping out of his room with a case and some brushes under his arm. He started to lightly but briskly walk down the corridor in the opposite directions but froze in disappointment as he heard Erik's silvery voice.
"You weren't thinking of leaving without me were you Tidus?"
"Not in the least." The Pisces answered back pleasantly over his shoulder. "It's just that I thought she'd wish to see you immediately." Erik simply shrugged.
"Why not postpone the 'horrors' that await me?" The scorpion caught up and walked directly behind him annoying Tidus to the extreme. Erik glanced at the case and asked with the same courtesy in his words.
"You're carrying an awful lot don't you think? Perhaps I should help you?"
"No!" Tidus shot back firmly, regretting the force of his words. Erik just frowned and replied sarcastically.
"Do forgive me! Wouldn't want to contaminate the artist's equipment."
They were silent the rest of the walk to Electra's room leaving Tidus to think to himself. He didn't hate the Scorpio, he barely knew him! What he did know was that Erik was a great artist like himself. You'd think just like Victor, that this common interest would have bonded them but it was the very reason Tidus preferred not to fraternize with Erik.
Tidus had always been devoted to art. It was a way to express his feelings and creative imagination. He not only painted to express himself but his ideas as well to others. The Pisces didn't think like other people, he was above the worldly needs, troubles, and so forth. All he needed was something to create and nothing else! His pictures and painting showed a peaceful world of color and you could just see the carefree nature of the artist in them. Everyone who saw Tidus' paintings were simply entranced just as they were by his unusual eyes. He was like a great being with no worries at all but then he'd met Erik and now he was upset to find that he was experiencing human irritation.
He was greatly pleased to find that there was another artist in the family even if he was greatly hated. There were a few others who liked to draw. Arianna wasn't that bad and neither was Remus but he hadn't expected to find the Scorpio had talent to match his own! It wasn't that he thought himself superior but he had never seen anything like Erik's paintings and sketches. There was pure genius behind them, Tidus was sure, just like his own. He especially admired a method of shading that Erik used but he never bothered to ask how he did it because after a while he began to regret ever having seen the scorpion's paintings. He wished he'd never seen them, he wished them destroyed because to put it simply, he was greatly disturbed by them.
No words could best describe the beauty of Tidus' paintings just as none could describe the darkness of Erik's. At first, Tidus had found the images of sea creatures, dragons and griffins to be hypnotizing. He, himself, was very proud of a dragon and warrior in a red background he had done. But all of Erik's paintings seemed to follow his code of dress. Everything was black. True to his spirit, all of his paintings were pictures of death stalking abroad, thieves hiding behind trees, and one particularly frightening portrait of the face of a dead man his eyes wide open. Even more disturbing was watching Erik actually creating them. Music blared loudly out of his stereo and he moved his paintbrush in a way that gave the impression that he was slashing through the canvas. He looked either mad or blind and sometimes he even used his hands to shaped his latest portrait of terror! The only painting that Tidus could look at without feeling sick was a picture of a bride. Despite the similar brush strokes, Tidus had refused to believe that Erik could imagine so lovely an image. It almost looked like you could reach out and feel the material of the white wedding gown, so detailed was it! However, Erik never failed to add something because even though the bride was beautiful it had no face and the background was gray giving it an eerie or maybe even lonely feel to it.
Right now, Tidus was commissioned by Electra to paint a portrait of her. He had been looking forward to it until he discovered that Erik would be there as well. The thing was he had no purpose there! He wasn't assisting Tidus on the painting, thankfully, and he wasn't in it either but Electra insisted on his being there. Tidus wasn't one to mind if his subjects wanted to talk but she hardly ever spoke a word to him! He would just sit on a stool watching or walking around the room, once or twice commenting on how the portrait was coming along. And that was another thing that annoyed Tidus. What right had he to criticize his work! Erik was good but not better than him, at least!
Tidus was grateful for one thing, though. The painting was almost finished and the hell was almost over. And who knew? Maybe he might get on better terms with Erik afterwards. That was something to look forward to. Yes, everything was going well once more. They reached Electra's room and were promptly admitted. She was already in position, sitting on a throne with red curtains hung in the background. A table with wine glasses and a fruit bowl was to one side and a globe to the other. In between sat Electra, proudly draped in a long black dress, her hair piled up and emerald jewelry dripping from her white throat and fingers. He set up his painting and laid his tool on the table. Erik took his normal seat across the room. After a few minutes, Electra spoke.
"I hope you're not too disappointed with that bull going instead." She asked casually.
"Not in the least." He responded, his arms crossed. Erik tilted his head to one side and inquired slowly. "However I don't believe you had time to say as to why and what I'm to do instead."
"You're to stay with me." She answered simply. "I'll believe they exist but I certainly don't want to walk into any danger. You'll stay here until Arianna and Darius return with positive news."
"And if they don't?"
Tidus paused and listened. They wouldn't notice from behind the portrait. He had never heard them talk like this was there any reason to expect danger? Was Erik planning something? But Tidus cleared his mind of such thoughts and continued to paint. That was ridiculous, the scorpion wouldn't cause any trouble. Electra had turned her head to face Erik.
"Then you'll be in a serious predicament. I'm already displeased with your behavior earlier so I wouldn't try anything funny."
"As if I would, madam." He replied innocently, slipping off the stool and coming to examine the portrait. Electra rose her head a little.
"Well, scorpion? How does it look?"
Erik pulled out a spy glass and looked at it more closely neither of them seeming to care what Tidus thought. Erik placed the spy glass on the table where Tidus kept his art supplies and stepped out from behind the portrait.
"It's an admirable piece of work. He does you great credit, madam." It was a good review but Tidus knew he wasn't satisfied.
"I appreciate your compliment but I think you feel that something is missing. Well, you're quite right, I feel it needs one last touch. I hope you don't mind Electra, but I happen to know that Erik has a great talent for shading and I wondered if you'd mind if he." He trailed off and Electra shook her head in allowance. Erik raised an eyebrow at the suggestion but took the brush he was handed and dipped it in purple and black. Tidus respectfully stood aside not wishing to see how he'd done it. It was his secret and it would be kept that way. In a few more minutes, Erik announced that he was finished and Tidus looked it over. His attention was immediately focused on the black dress. It was beautifully shaded and Tidus felt immense pride at the rest of his hard work. The thought entered his head that they made a good team together. Imagine his surprise when Electra, having come round to see the final result started screaming in disgust.
"What have you done!?!" She turned and pointed a long red fingernail at Erik. "You did this! You fiend, wicked creature! You ruined it! And you let him!" Electra addressed this last remark to Tidus and stormed out of the room in anger shouting obscenities. Tidus felt crushed. How could she not like it? It was a masterpiece. He looked at his creation again but couldn't find any flaws at first but there was a feeling that something was different. It was then he realized. The dress was different for one. The edges were sharper and the collar higher, giving her the appearance of a vampire. And on closer inspection, he saw to his horror that Electra's smile had turned sinister and her eyebrows arched more over malicious eyes. Erik had left his signature mark of terror on his creation, his child! Anger and hatred was the second and third human emotion he had felt after meeting Erik. Tidus advanced threateningly towards Erik who seemed not to have even noticed Electra's accusation or his distress.
"What have you done to it?" Tidus demanded harshly.
"Made it more realistic. You know you really should keep your head out of the clouds or else you'll never avoid tragedy." Tidus disliked the remark but there was something in the way Erik had said it that only caused his anger to increase. Not even in control of himself he threw a punch towards that mocking face but in a second he found himself on the floor staring at the ceiling. Erik soon blocked his view as he leaned over him.
"You see? Now there's another example." Erik turned to leave but Tidus rose quickly to his feet and attacked once more. This wasn't like him at all but he was sick of the scorpion always mocking and teasing. This time he avoided get flipped by ducking out of the way and splashing paint on Erik. The Scorpio stared open mouthed at the Pisces.
"God, what is wrong with you? I'm warning you if you come near me again you'll be sorry."
But Tidus rushed at him again but Erik moved to the side and spun around to face him, grasping a bottle of black and red paint. Tidus froze in terror and held out his hand as Erik began to pour the bottles' contents on his left hand.
"No don't, please! Please I beg of you, I can still fix it just don't ruin my work!"
"Oh, I wouldn't dream of destroying another person's work." Erik said placing the bottles down. Tidus relaxed a little but stiffened as Erik added:
"If the person was decent." Tidus attempted to protest but Erik wouldn't let him even start. "Oh, you think you've been polite but you not only act like everyone else by shunning me but you go a step further and attack me. What the hell do I owe you?"
Tidus tried to stop him but it was too late. Erik had smeared the paint all over the painting scratching it with his nails. Tidus began to shake terribly and his breath became harsher.
"I'm.I'm."He stuttered.
"Sorry?" Erik volunteered, sweetly.
"I'm going to kill you!" And Tidus rushed at him once more. Erik snatched the painting and attempted to smash it over his head but missed. Tidus put all his energy into one punch knocking the wind out of Erik and also knocking him into the scenery causing the curtain to fall. Tidus tried to jump on him but Erik twisted around and pinned Tidus to the ground proceeding to hit him continually in the face. Suddenly Erik felt arms around his neck and spun around pinning his second attacker only to find himself on top of Arianna. Tidus tried to spring up from behind but he soon felt the arms of Katherine and Victor restrain him.
"What are you both trying to do, kill each other?" Asked Selena. Erik had gotten to his feet and gestured to Tidus. He's the one trying to murder me!" Selena smiled.
"Alright Tidus!" And she held out her hand to pat him on the back but held it back as she met Victor's disapproving stare.
"He ruined my painting!" Tidus said, trying to keep back tears.
"Erik, why'd you do that?" Arianna asked softly. Erik turned to her angrily.
"Oh fine! Blame it on the scorpion! He provoked me! What do you expect me to do?"
"Apologize." Was her only answer which met with his disapproval.
"What for? He."
"Both of you apologize now!" Came the surprisingly firm voice of Victor. "I'm very ashamed of both of you, fighting to death over a painting!"
"But you don't understand!" Tidus began but Victor held up his hand to silence him.
"Nothing is so important as to tear apart a family. Honestly I expected better of both of you. Now apologize!"
They both reluctantly apologized and Victor left with Erik following him and arguing all the way to their room.
"How dare you make a fool out of me Victor?" Erik hissed.
"How dare I? Erik if I didn't make you both apologize than all the family would be down upon you. Damn it, I care more about your life more than your pride, even if you don't!"
"The weak are finding their voices." Erik mumbled inaudibly.
"What?"
Erik sighed and changed the subject. "I myself am feeling quite fatigued, my head clouded with premonitions. We've a bit of a day ahead of us. We'd best get our rest. "