Frankenstein tried not to stare as Raizel agonized over his next move.
It had been eight hundred and twenty years since he'd last played chess with his Master… and yet right now, it felt as though nothing had changed. It was as though they had been transported back in time to Raizel's stately mansion, when he had been tutoring Raizel on how to play…
After the children had gone home, Raizel had knocked on his bedroom door to shyly request a game of chess, and Frankenstein found himself completely incapable of refusing.
But playing chess with Raizel brought up such fond memories… Memories of the sunlit study in the mansion, where he would always find his Master waiting for him. It seemed to him as though he could still smell the flowers from the garden, feel the breeze drifting through the open window, taste the sweets made with dried fruits…
He'd been so lost in memories that he'd nearly lost his focus… and almost lost the game.
There was also the fact that Master's mind was so full of warmth and hope. Raizel truly believed that his gifts had touched his companion's heart... and he was right.
The roses Raizel had given him were sitting in the nicest vase he owned, having been reverently placed on the kitchen island. The stuffed black dog was still in its position on his bed. The pocky had been placed in his briefcase so he could share it with Raizel during tomorrow's tea time.
Raizel finally decided to move his bishop. Frankenstein smiled. Considering the position Master had gotten himself into, that was a fairly sensible move to make. At least Master hadn't forgotten his lessons.
Frankenstein made his final play, cornering Raizel's king. After studying the board for a moment, Raizel conceded defeat.
"You have won," Raizel said, with an adorable little pout. "I thought I might win this time…"
"You have clearly improved, Master," Frankenstein assured him. "A bit more practice, and I may have met my match."
Raizel straightened up, his face set determinedly.
"I would like to request a rematch."
"Of course," he promised. "But would you like dinner first?"
"Ah… yes, please," Raizel corrected himself. "I'm sure the others are getting hungry."
"What would you like?"
"I would like your ramyeon, please. And tea, when you have a moment."
Frankenstein chuckled. Master was nothing if not predictable when it came to his personal habits. Not that he minded… all he ever wanted was to live a quiet life with Raizel.
"Right away, Master. You just stay here and relax."
Half an hour later, Frankenstein had assembled his ramyeon masterpiece, and the family had gathered in the kitchen to eat. Tao, Takio, and M-21 returned from their nightly patrol of the city, and Regis and Seira had finished their homework. How the teachers had convinced two nobles to write book reports and struggle through geometry problems, he wasn't sure. But he supposed he shouldn't be surprised, he had hired each member of the staff personally.
"Ah, ramyeon again, huh?" M-21 commented, taking his seat at the table. "Hey, how about you let us cook sometime, Boss?"
"Hmm, if I ever become permanently hospitalized, I'll consider letting you guys cook," Frankenstein said flatly.
"Harsh... you let Seira cook," M-21 pointed out.
"Yes, because she actually can cook. There's a bit of a distinction there."
Takio and Tao snickered as they sat down. M-21 glared at them.
Frankenstein ignored them, pulling out his Master's chair, and Raizel immediately stood up and came to take his place at the head of the table. Seira helped him bring the dishes over, and he naturally served his Master first. Finally, Frankenstein added both pickled radish and kimchi to the table. Master still hadn't decided which he liked better.
Frankenstein was the last to take his place next to his Master. He looked around at all the people seated at his table. It was hard to believe now, but a year ago, he would have likely been eating a wholesome dinner of homemade nutritional supplements and water while researching new body modifications late into the night. He would cook occasionally to keep his skills sharp, but many nights... he simply couldn't see the point.
He felt like a soft-hearted fool admitting it, but even if Master had not returned to him, he likely would have still taken M-21, Tao, and Takio into his home. It was rare to find others who shared his fate, who he didn't have to hide his true nature around... and Master would have wanted it that way.
Yes... this was the way it should be, he thought, watching contentedly as Master deliberated once again between the radish and kimchi. Master deserved this simple, happy life with true friends and family. Perhaps the only thing Master was missing would be a lovely lady on his arm... But whatever Master decided, he would always have his family and his companion.
Just as he was thinking that, a massive wave power rushed through the dining room, sending a sharp, clear message straight into his head.
Meet me above the city.
Frankenstein froze, clutching his chopsticks so tightly he snapped them in half.
No… why was he doing this?! Why was Muzaka deliberately calling for Raizel, and everyone connected to him by blood? What did he want with them?
Everyone except Seira and Regis had looked up from the dinner table at the sudden surge of power. Both young nobles looked around, confused.
"What's going on? Why'd everyone stop eating?" Regis asked.
"I… I just felt someone calling me…" M-21 said slowly.
"Me too…" Tao and Takio echoed, both of them frowning at their noodles.
Tao glanced at the broken chopsticks in Frankenstein's hand.
"Hey, you felt it too, right, Boss?" Tao asked him.
Frankenstein barely heard him as he glanced at his Master… Raizel's chopsticks were trembling in his hand. He hastily put them down.
Well… that settled it.
Master's shaking hands yesterday morning hadn't just been a coincidence. He had felt the presence of the person who had nearly ended his life.
Really, Frankenstein wasn't surprised. He still didn't understand why Master's old friend would do such a thing… but right now, it didn't matter. Master's health was all that mattered. Unfortunately, Frankenstein knew that Master was intending to answer the call… because despite his shaking hands, Raizel had a determined look on his face.
Frankenstein knew he had just promised not to criticize his Master's decisions… but he couldn't let Raizel put himself in harm's way. Not like this. Anything but this.
He couldn't bear the thought of being left behind again.
"Master… you mustn't."
"Frankenstein," Raizel said sternly. "That is not your decision."
"I… Master, please, if you must go… then take me with you," he said anxiously. "Don't go alone."
Raizel gazed into his eyes, and Frankenstein saw the sadness in those ruby depths.
"No, Frankenstein," Master said gently. "You will stay here."
He turned those sad crimson eyes on the rest of the worried people at the table.
"All of you… will stay here," he commanded quietly. "I will answer this summons."
"Please reconsider, Master," Frankenstein begged. He swiftly got out of his chair, kneeling in front of Raizel. "Allow me to accompany you. Please."
"Frankenstein… Calm yourself," Raizel said kindly, patting his shoulder. "You have no reason to worry. I believe I promised I would call for you if the need arose?"
He swallowed hard, his stomach clenching uncomfortably. Raizel had offered to do that, but ultimately, Master was the one in charge. He would do whatever he thought was best. And Frankenstein knew if he continued to push the issue… Raizel would use his powerful will to force him to obey.
"Yes, of course," he said, nearly choking on his words. He didn't want to make a scene in front of his kids. But the thought of anything happening to his Master now was almost too much to bear. "I will wait here, Master."
He stood up, long fingers clenched into a fist.
"Please, excuse me, everyone…" he managed to get out. "Enjoy the rest of your dinner."
Frankenstein swept out of the kitchen before anyone could call him back, especially Raizel. He immediately made his way through the secret entrance to his laboratory, trying to stop the childish tears from forming in his eyes. Master was a fully grown man capable of making his own decisions.
Master's mind brushed against his.
Frankenstein, please try and understand…
"I don't understand, Master," he breathed, shutting the door to his laboratory behind him. "I think we both know that the last time you left me behind to meet this person… you never came back."
Please, listen to me…
But something inside him had snapped. He didn't understand why his Master would leave him behind, and he didn't want to try.
"He's the one who hurt you!" he practically screamed, slamming his hand into the metallic walls. "He took you from me! How can I be happy about the thought of you meeting with him alone?"
He couldn't stop the anger and fury that was bubbling up inside him, rousing the spirits in his mind. He leaned against the cold wall, demonic claws sprouting from his fingers and digging gouges into the metal.
"If he hurts you… I'll kill him!" he snarled, black blood dripping down his chin and onto the floor.
He grit his teeth, trying to suppress the urge to vomit his dinner all over the hallway.
Frankenstein, please... you will become ill again...
"Why, Master?" Frankenstein choked out, the spirits screaming their displeasure in his head. "Why must you meet with him alone? I would protect you. Let me fulfill my promise to you. Please… don't do this..."
Raizel was silent as Frankenstein did his best to control his emotions and silence the screams the way his Master has taught him centuries ago, but it was futile. He was only getting more and more upset. He could still picture the destruction he'd found the day Raizel had disappeared. He could clearly remember kneeling by the pool of his Master's blood, searching frantically for his body… and tearing at his own flesh as punishment for failing to protect the only thing he had left.
Frankenstein coughed violently, more black blood splattering on the floor.
He wiped blearily at his mouth, struggling to distinguish between memories and reality... when he felt a soft body pressing against his back. Master's powerful consciousness flooded his mind, spreading comforting warmth from his head all the way to his toes… the screaming voices fell silent, the miserable memories faded, and his dark claws transitioned back to their ordinary human form.
Frankenstein… Please, no more of this. I promise you, I will return to you well and whole this night. You worry far too much…
He forced himself to take a deep breath, bracing himself against the wall. The last thing he wanted to do was share those memories with his Master.
"I… I know, Raizel, but… Please, stay here, or take me with you," he whispered. He made another attempt to clean his mouth, but only succeeded in smearing his blood across his cheek. "I don't know what happened then, or why the werewolf lord did what he did… but I cannot allow him to harm you again."
Master's voice was gentle as he reprimanded him.
No. I cannot ignore this, or he may do more damage to the humans living here. I know this would upset you as well. I must go, Frankenstein. You will stay here, and I will call for you if the need arises. I promise.
Frankenstein bowed his head. Raizel was right… but he still didn't understand why he was not allowed to accompany his Master. There must have been something Master wasn't telling him… or something that was worrying him.
"Yes… as you say," he conceded. He exhaled slowly, resting his head against the ruined wall. "But, when you return… will you tell me what happened back then? Please, tell me why this had to happen."
Yes. Please, forgive me for not telling you yesterday. I only worried this would upset you…
"I am upset," Frankenstein said vehemently. "I can't forgive him for what he did to you, no matter what his reasons were."
I understand.
He felt a surge of sympathy from his Master's consciousness. Master did understand… Raizel would have felt the same way if anything had happened to his family.
"I suppose… you should go meet with Muzaka, Master. I will wait here. If you need me, please call for me."
Raizel hesitated, and Frankenstein realized with a jolt that his Master was still firmly pressed up against his back. He knew Master had only been trying to comfort him, but now he was fully aware of how it felt to have Raizel's warm body against his…
Will you not look at me?
"Heh… I'm afraid if I do, I may disobey you, Master."
To his surprise, Master didn't seem bothered by that statement. Instead, he felt Raizel's heart pounding against his back.
Even if you did… I know why you would do so. Your heart has always been in the right place, Frankenstein.
"Thank you, Master."
Of course. Now, please… have some tea. Settle your nerves. I will return soon…
Master's presence faded from his back, leaving him alone in the blood-stained hallway. Frankenstein breathed out, wishing the moment could have lasted longer. Perhaps if he had turned around, he could have convinced Master to stay…
He sighed, cleaning his mouth and face with his handkerchief. He hated recalling those memories, and he hadn't meant to show them to his Master, either… That had easily been the worst day of his life, and he had no interest in repeating it.
For the first time in hundreds of years, he bowed his head and prayed for his Master's safety.
Rai was soaring up into the night sky, his heart still pounding in his chest.
He had bid farewell to his confused family, only telling them he would return soon. They had been full of questions, but Rai couldn't take the time to answer them. Not when an important visitor was waiting, someone who might not take kindly to being forced to wait for much longer.
Rai had never known what exactly Frankenstein had gone through the day he had disappeared. Frankenstein never seemed to think about it, and Rai would never purposely dig through his companion's mind for painful recollections. That would only hurt both of them. Although... he had not shared what had happened to him that day, either...
And now he was going to meet the person who had separated him from the other half of his soul.
Rai found him easily enough... Muzaka was balanced on the edge of the tallest skyscraper in the city, backlit by a silver crescent moon. Muzaka noted his approach, leaping from his platform to meet him.
Rai gazed sadly at his old friend. Muzaka looked exactly the same as he did hundreds of years ago... but his eyes were empty. They contained none of the playful mischief they once had.
How had it come to this?
"Raizel… Good to see you again. I was beginning to worry you hadn't heard me yesterday…"
Rai nodded stiffly. He wanted to be glad to see Muzaka again. Muzaka had been a spot of brightness in his dull life before Frankenstein had come to stay by his side. But… he still couldn't quite forget the memory of lying motionless on the ground, silently begging to see Frankenstein one more time as the life had bled from his body…
And it had been Muzaka who had put him there.
"Where's your shadow?" Muzaka asked innocently. "I thought I'd sent out the summons for you... and everyone connected to you by blood."
Rai didn't reply. He wouldn't allow himself to be baited into giving away Frankenstein's location.
"Are you still trying to protect him?" Muzaka mused when he didn't respond. "You would have had a better chance of overpowering me back then if you'd brought him with you. But you came by yourself."
Rai stayed silent. There was no point in denying it. He could have called for Frankenstein much sooner… but he hadn't. The thought of something happening to Frankenstein had been too terrifying to even consider. Losing Frankenstein would also mean losing his own will to live. Without his companion, he would merely… exist. He would not truly be alive.
"My family has nothing to do with this. I saw no reason to take them from our home."
"Them?" Muzaka repeated, raising an eyebrow. "You have bonded more humans?"
"No. But they are connected to me."
The chilly night air rushed past them, nearly making Rai shiver. But showing weakness now would be a very bad idea. Muzaka tilted his head, observing him with a hard, calculating gaze.
"You're weaker now, Raizel. Awakening those humans must have cost you greatly. You don't have much time left, do you?"
"No."
"Most people would be a bit more concerned about that… because they're just going to keeping coming, you know," Muzaka said quietly. "From what I gathered, there are quite a few people out there who want us both gone. We're just obstacles to them. They won't stop trying to get rid of us."
"Yes. I know."
Muzaka shook his head exasperatedly.
"That's all you have to say?" He sighed. "You really haven't changed, even after all this time."
"Are you concerned for me?" Rai said flatly. "After all that's happened?"
Muzaka heaved another massive sigh.
"You didn't have to get in my way back then, Raizel…"
"Didn't I?" Rai said, a cold hand around his heart. "As I recall, you wished to slaughter every human on earth… including my companion."
If there was anything that could upset him, it was this. The thought of Frankenstein lying dead in his arms, slaughtered at the hands of an old friend…
"Would you take the one I love from me to satisfy your thirst for revenge?"
Muzaka threw back his head and laughed.
"That's rich! Considering what he did to me…"
"I told you before… Frankenstein did no such thing. You are misinformed."
"Of course you would say that. You'll take his side no matter what, won't you?"
"No. I am not taking his side. I am on the side of justice, as always. My companion has devoted his very soul to me, thus he serves my ideals… he simply needed to be put on the right path."
"And how do you know he hasn't strayed from the path you put him on?" Muzaka growled, baring his teeth. "How are you so sure he wasn't the one who told those humans about Ashleen?"
"I am certain. Frankenstein is guilty of many sins… but he would not harm a child. You are looking for someone to blame, old friend."
"If he didn't tell those humans that Ashleen was my daughter, then tell me, who did? No one else knew her true identity but Garda, you and your companion… and Garda would never betray me."
Rai couldn't answer. He only knew that Frankenstein was not responsible for the tragedy that had befallen Ashleen. Even if Frankenstein had hated Muzaka, which he hadn't, he never would have condemned an innocent child to death. Was it so hard for Muzaka to believe that someone else could have discovered who Ashleen really was? Still, he had no proof of that happening...
"Perhaps… it is time to let go of this anger. So much time has passed… the world is different now. The ones responsible for this crime are long gone."
"Are we so sure about that?" Muzaka growled.
Now, Rai just felt tired. His heart ached for the loss of a bright, innocent life… and for the loss of his old friend, who appeared to have been replaced with someone entirely unfamiliar to him. Where was the werewolf who had loved a human woman, and cradled a half-human child in his arms?
"So… I take it you still intend to stand in my way?"
"If I must."
"You should stay out of it, Raizel. Enjoy the time you have left. If you're so sure your companion wasn't involved, then I'll find out who was. Alone."
"Muzaka…"
"You won't talk me out of this," Muzaka warned him. "Someone sold me out, and took my little girl from me. Don't interfere. And if you don't want that human of yours to get hurt… keep him out of my way, too."
"And what of your people?"
"What of them? They have a new Lord, just like they wanted. I'm nothing but a traitor to them now," his old friend said bitterly. "You and I… We're relics. Remnants of a world that doesn't exist. No one needs us anymore. Now all that's left is to clean up the trash."
"That is not…"
"Enough, Raizel!" Muzaka snapped. "I only called you here to give you fair warning. You were right. The world is different now. But that won't stop me from getting my revenge."
"Do you think... she would want this?"
Muzaka froze.
"I'll never know what she would want... because filthy humans killed her."
Before Rai could say anything more, there was a burst of energy, and Muzaka had disappeared into the distance.
Another gust of chilly night air rushed past him, echoing in the empty void.
Rai looked up at the stars above him. The stars had been a comforting presence in his life when he'd been alone in the mansion. When he was younger, he had imagined them to be watching over him.
But the stars… seemed so distant now.
Just like the past, and the world he used to know.
Many of the things he had thought to be true were not. His old friend, Muzaka, had turned against him and nearly taken his life. The family leaders who had visited him from time to time… they had imprisoned his broken body in his casket and dumped him in the ocean, hoping to be rid of him forever.
But one thing had remained true.
Those traitorous family leaders might have thought that they had succeeded in sealing him away forever, but even eight hundred and twenty years later, Frankenstein's unfailing care and devotion had still been strong enough to call him from his endless sleep.
Even now, he could feel his companion's worry plucking at his heartstrings.
Frankenstein… I… I am so sorry… for the pain I caused you.
My Comments: So, we don't really get that much information about Ashleen or Muzaka's lover (can't remember her name). But I find it fascinating that Muzaka is super upset that Ashleen is dead… but not that his lover is dead. Muzaka sort of implies that his lover was also killed along with Ashleen… but was she? He doesn't seem too upset about her death, just his child. I can only assume that since Ashleen is half-werewolf, she has a longer lifespan, and her mother had died a while ago. It would also make sense that Muzaka tried to hide Ashleen from his fellow werewolves (except Garda), since I doubt he trusted all of them.
I think we were robbed of the chance to see a more vulnerable side of Frankenstein when Rai disappeared. We don't get to see Frankenstein's reaction when he realizes Rai is gone, and he can't find him. Because you know Frankie freaked out. But in the manwha, Frankie is (mostly) only allowed to be angry-sad, not sad-sad. But it would have been nice, just for one episode, to see Frankie truly despair at the loss of his Master. You know, let him be weak and human for a minute. That moment of sadness would, of course, be followed by Frankie vowing to find Rai no matter what. (I'm going to have a memory addressing this)
One last thing... It bugged me the entire damn story that M-21 doesn't get a proper name. Nobody thinks that: "Hey, maybe we shouldn't call our family member some dehumanizing set of letters and numbers, he deserves a name that isn't basically his prisoner ID number." (Sorry, just had to get that off my chest lol).
I somehow got talked into teaching a summer class at the local community college. I... ugh. I had wanted to chill this summer, but they offered me what I couldn't refuse: money.
P.S. Thanks to everyone who has read this story and enjoyed it! And thanks for all the nice reviews! Writing isn't my strong suit, so I expected a lot of constructive criticism lol.
