Author's Note: I decided to change the title to Endless Waltz. I apologise for the long gap between updates, but I wasn't sure I should continue. Besides, I kind of had writer's block.

Disclaimer: Tomb Raider and its characters are the property of Simon West, Paramount Pictures and Eidos Interactive. This story is strictly for my own personal pleasure. Any similarities between this story's plot and any others is purely coincidental. No plagiarism intended.

'The ancient Mayas hell, called by them Metnal, was not a burning pit of fire and brimstone but a dark, cold place where lost souls, benumbed with chill, struggled forever in thick, dark mud.'

Thompson, Edward.

Chapter Five: Skills of Persuasion.

The archaeological convention had started four hours ago, and after numerous talks on the current digs, Lara needed some fresh air. The orators were very passionate about there subjects. They tended to fall pray to the annoying overindulgence that all the best authors and those studying the various forms of oration learned to avoid through experience, and greatly advised against. Several minutes after those in the room had learned all they wanted to know on a particular topic the speakers insisted on going over the minute detail that will hence render the speech ineffective.

One by one people began to migrate to different parts of the hotel, some even going so far as to leave altogether. Trying unsuccessfully to excuse herself from the oh-so-slightly overweight middle aged man currently trying to convince her to work for some auctioneer or other, to authenticate this and that, a Mr. Waterston so genially introduced himself and steered Lara away with the pretence of important business.

Mr. Waterston just so happened to be Lara's newest 'client', for lack of a better word. He had engaged Lara in a conversation on a certain lost artefact a few weeks ago, at a similar convention. Having aroused her curiosity, she delved into the subject a little deeper in her own time and realised two things: one, this truly was an irresistible item; and two, if she planned on locating it she would need to learn as much as possible on Mayan history before the area in which the item was said to be found was demolished for its' land. She had only ever given Mayan history a cursory glance, finding- in her opinion- other topics more worthy of her time. The lure of the Babylonians and Ancient Greeks was that much more appealing. It was obvious Lara would need a little outside help, and there was none in a better form than Alex. He was an authority on Mayan culture, and very proficient at finding artefacts in his own right. Plus, she had worked with him for years, and new his methods. There was only one little set- back, and discussions on it had long since been exhausted. She had intended on asking him to accompany her at the café three days ago, breaking the agreement she now fully regretted, but the conversation- let's just say it didn't go as planned.

It was now half eight in the evening. The sun had long since gone down in the western sky, and the new moon was dulled by the light pollution that comes with any large human settlement. Lara walked out on to one of the many balconies dotted around the five-star hotel. Archaeology wasn't exactly a booming trade, anything more than four-star being unusual for a small convention such as this. She would be interested to know who the sponsors were. The balcony overlooked a quiet street, nothing but a few cars passing by and the orange glow of the street lights to distract the eye. The Victorian buildings across the road were silhouetted in shadow, hiding the dark red brick from view, only occasionally marred with graffiti. This time of day was what made her love London. No matter how much it might change, the feeling the city gives off on a quiet night could never be rendered from it's grasp. The air was heavy as if with expectancy, somehow humid despite the cold temperature. It was a feeling impossible to articulate, one having to experience it for oneself.

There was Mr. West, leaning on the black banister. She thought she had spotted him a few times in the crowd of people milling about. He was wearing a dark suit, the colour indiscernible in the dim light. Black, maybe navy. Dark shirt underneath. That, and the shadows under his eyes gave him a look of utter desolation. His expression was withdrawn, focused on something out of Lara's view, and showed no recognition to her presence as she drew up beside him, leaning her elbows on the metal frame with her back against the street.

"Where are you now, Alex?"

Glancing up at last from his reflection, Alex found an apparition staring at him with mild curiosity. Taking a deep breath, he shifted his weight on to his right forearm, leaning slightly away from her.

" Metnal." She frowned slightly, unsure of what he was referring to. When no further explanation was forth coming, Lara pressed on with her purpose.

"Alex, I have a proposition for you. There is an item I am interested in finding, and I require your expertise." A moment or so passed. Lara might wish to act formal, but to be honest Alex couldn't be bothered. Rather than make a comment on her 'needing his expertise', Alex motioned with his hand for her to continue. It seemed an effort just for that that simple gesture. The mere thought of talking was starting to feel like climbing Mt. Everest. "That's it. Should you accept, I will supply you with further information." The Mission Impossible theme tune made itself heard in Alex's head. What the hell was this all about? He sighed, trying to form a reply with his now exceptionally thick tongue.

"Now, how could I not accept an offer like that?" It came out unusually soft. He mimicked Lara's position, looking into the empty lobby. Everyone was still at the complimentary meal.

Lara noticed for the first time that he had lost weight- not a good thing. He seemed paler too, wasted. She fully intended on asking him about it, but that would have to wait for another time.

"Glad you accept. Come over to the manor tomorrow at noon," with that, she pushed herself off the rail and made her way to the lobby.

"Mid-day, got it." Taking a personal organiser from his inner pocket, Alex turned his back on Lara's retreating form.

Author's Note: Finally, I'm going somewhere- kind of. Thank you for taking the time to read.

Kai.