A/N: Sorry for taking so long guys. I've been kind of... Weird lately, and life's been really weird, but fortunately things are getting back on track so my updates should be going back to the regular schedule of about a month or every 2/3 weeks. Also there's a poll on my profile about the future of this story (don't worry it will go on) but I do need opinions on something. Details are on the poll. Also thanks guys for sticking through this wild ride with me! Also sorry if theres any mistakes in this. I was kinda in a rush to put this out.
The Darkest Knight
Part II: The Claws of Talon
Chapter 19: Cyborg Ninjas and Assistance
Click.
"And today in Siberia-"
Click.
"Rey, you come from nothing. Your parents were nothing, they-"
Click.
"He's my friend. So was I."
Click.
Don't you like that movie?
I shrugged. I do but don't really feel like watching it tonight.
So what do we just sit here and watch movies and pout all night?
I frowned and gripped the remote in my hand tighter, the soft couch beneath me doing little to calm my nerves.
Get out.
Well, what else are we supposed to do? Mercy's still at the hospital, and here with orders to stay here.
Tears. A bottle.
Brown eyes and hurt.
Bullshit. I can literally see in your head. You're still pissed off at Hana, or hurt, or whatever.
A flash of light and my ghost appeared. His parts twirled and he floated in front of my face.
I narrowed my eyes at him. Don't get all pissy with me. You haven't even found any leads yet!
Well you're just sitting here! Go, I don't know, track down a lead or something useful!
Oh shut up. I'd just be wasting time out there. We have zero l leads and no allies here. Now, if you find a hit then-
Shut up.
Who the fuck-
I got a hit.
My armor appeared over me and I stood.
"Who?"
The boy that Winston said disappeared? He's at a fundraiser for Cancer patients in Oasis. Dad's a wealthy investor.
"Probably trying to look good for the press."
Most likely, but Winston wasn't kidding. Kids got nothing wrong with him. Looks squeaky clean, even his school records perfect. Straight A's and the lot.
I nodded, my foot tapping impatiently on the floor.
Angela had told me to wait here.
But…
I grinned.
Well fuck it.
After all she wasn't my priority right now.
Where's the place?
It's… oh dear. You might need a decent pair of clothes.
My eyes shot to my ghost as he appeared.
And I mean, like fancy clothes.
Ah fuck.
Hana stared at the tablet before her, her eyes burning slightly and a yawn forcing it's way from deep within.
"Ugghhhhh…" she grumbled, her eyes threatening to close.
She shook her head, blood rushing through her face and forcing a dull pain at the top of her skull.
Her teeth sank into her lip, and sucked in a massive breath, trying to fuel her exhausted mind.
Her phone beeped and she glanced at it.
A message from an unknown number.
She frowned.
Of course there would be a message from an unknown number while she was trying to figure out the damn riddle on this tablet!
Teeth grit, calcium rubbing together with enough friction to create a near silent eeekkkk, she grabbed her phone and opened the message.
Hana love, it's Lena. Had to use a burner, sorry.
The teeth grinding stopped and her frustration dampened slightly.
Just wanted to let you know we're keeping an eye out for anything through Japan. Winstons got people looking into any shady organizations and, Mei and I are looking into some weird rubbish in Canada. If you need back up, send any message to this number and we'll have backup there ASAP.
No mention of Nate. She frowned.
Just be careful love. Don't do anything too stupid!
And that was it.
It wasn't that didn't appreciate Tracers concern, she was slightly miffed at being interrupted.
After all, riddles didn't solve themselves.
She looked back to the riddle, ignoring her phone as she tossed it to the floor next to her.
'From times of silver and gold. The first of his kind. The most powerful of ours, but in the land foreign and not. Find that duller than pen, but separate from the world.'
Silver and gold…
What did that mean? Jewelry? Gold coins? Silver bullets?
What!
She growled, dry, red eyes burning with frustration.
The first of his kind…
Her mind went to Nate.
He was the first of his kind in their world… but why would the refer to him? Her relationship with him?
She scoffed.
Yeah, right.
She dismissed the idea and narrowed her eyes.
Times…
Did it mean like actual hours? Maybe years?
Or…
She narrowed her gaze.
Or, what ages? She knew of something called… the bronze age… right?
Wasn't that a thing?
She shook her head.
"Dang it."
She grabbed her phone and opened the browser, prepared to type the riddle in when her mental defenses shoot up in warning.
Whoever these people were…
They could remotely activate and type things into this tablet…
They could find her and draw her out of a secure meeting…
Of course they'd be able to track whatever she searched through her phone.
And what if anyone else…
Talon…
...was listening?
She put her phone down, eyes assessing its very existence.
Again she bit her lip and turned back to the tablet.
She needed info, something that could help her think and align her thoughts.
A library…
She grinned softly. It'd been years since she'd been to one. Since she was in grade school actually..
That had been… well, a very long time ago.
She grabbed her phone, and rather than enter something that could let any track her or inform her of her intent, she simply looked up library locations.
The town was only a short drive away, and it was- she looked at the time- already 2 in the morning…
Everyone had to be asleep. Jet lag was killer, but she had no fear of driving alone.
The biggest issue was the fact the library was closed.
She scowled.
She'd have to wait until tomorrow.
Without a moment's breath, she glanced around her room, her fingers tightening on her phone.
Oh course she hoped she even woke up tomorrow.
What if they were watching her?
She bit her cheek and looked from the windows to the door. Each was closed, each locked in place.
The place was alarmed, and… she grabbed her bag.
Her hand wrapped around cold metal and she pulled the 9 millimeter from the bags confines.
Acutely aware of her surroundings she checked the magazine, and cocked the side arm back.
The safety was still on, but at least knowing her weapon was loaded and ready gave her at least a sliver of peace.
After all, it wasn't like she could go anywhere right now, and despite her fear, logically this place was the safest place she could currently be.
So with a heavy sigh she pushed the tablet away and laid back on the futon beneath her.
The light above burned at her exhausted irises, but as she sat up to turn it off she felt her heart start pounding at the thought of the darkness.
So for the first time years, she curled up and closed her eyes with the lights still on.
'Song…'
She fleet herself turning, but gravity was against her and her movement was hindered by something she couldn't see.
'Song…'
She growled as she tried to find the voice, her very animalistic nature warning her of a threat.
'Song, the time is nigh.'
There was fire in front of her. Buildings were burning.
There was a woman.
Red hair, pale skin and green eyes.
Armor like Nate's. But it was blackened, and blood poured down the left side of her face.
'Death follows him, follows you like a plague.'
Bodies.
Women. Children. Men.
So many dead…
She felt her heart racing.
'Death will come.'
Water washed away the fire, breaking buildings and washing bodies away.
The earth rumbled and torn the ground apart.
"Hana?"
And darkness will be known by all.
Purple eyes in the dark.
She gasped, breath filling her as her eyes opened with a start and her body instinctively sat up, prepared for fight or flight.
"Hana?"
The light above burned her irises.
Hana Song growled as she rubbed her eyes, though in pain, she managed to find the intruder of her sleep.
"Hana?"
She narrowed her gaze at the minor concern on the other girls face, "its nothing ok?"
Blonde hair and a shit eating smile, Claire shook her head, "still not a morning person… some things never change."
The blonde stood and offered a hand to the gamer, which she took without question.
Her grip was tight and quick yawn escaped Hana as her senses finally began to relax.
She shook her head, clearing away the adrenaline and fear, and looked around.
She was in a room.
Japan…. that was it. That's where she was.
Her phone. A bag.
A tablet.
The riddle.
The library.
She frowned, but Claire stepped in her view and-
"Hello? Earth to Hana? You awake?'
She blinked in mild surprise and gave a soft smile, "sorry. Just… tired."
Purple eyes…
The other girl shrugged nad stepped back crossing her arms as she kicked the tablet gently with her foot.
"Trying to play spy or something?"
Hana rolled her eyes in response, "or something."
Claire shook her head, smile never leaving, "anyway, Marques and the others wanted me to wake you up, seeing as the last time Kolden did-"
"I punched him in the face." Hana grinned, the memory fondly playing itself behind her eyes. "He I had A bruise for like, a week right?"
Claire chuckled, "and he tried playing it off as if he got it during PT."
Her toes curled and she pushed her body up, another yawn escaping her as she reached for the sky and stretched her body, her muscles aching just before easing into full alertness.
She glanced around, searching for the bathroom which she then remembered wasn't in her room.
But her eyes also hit the windows and with that she saw the shining light on the grass and walls on the outside the small compound, and realized that she had slept in.
Her eyes went wide. "What time is it?"
"Eleven I think? We already ate sorry, but saved you some eggs courtesy of Marques."
"Eleven?' Hana snapped, her face flushing as she snagged her bag from the floor and rushed past Claire and through the door of her room,"why didn't you all wake me sooner!"
Claire simply laughed as she followed, "figured we'd let you sleep in. You were attacked after all. Can't have been easy."
The gamer simply mumbled under her breath, feet cold against the wooden floor as she turned right into the community bath she and Claire were sharing.
"And you died…"
The silence was welcoming. And she glanced back at her friend, who instead gave her a smile and placed a hand on her shoulder.
"Well, I'm back. So get ready. Maybe we can convince the boys to head into town and we can grab some nice clothes. I've been digging the kimono look for a few weeks."
She rolled her eyes. Leave it to Claire to prioritize shopping.
And leave it to her to find a way to the library why th either were distracted.
It'd be hard, but now she had a chance.
"Fine."
She stared at the mirror, unfazed by the ragged hair and red eyes staring back at her.
And so, as was her usual routine, she opens ether bag and pulled out he relish, eyeliner, foundation and mascara. She may not be a goddess in the terms of a-playing makeup, but she knew how to hide any bags or blemishes she had.
After all, in her line of work, bags underneath your eyes was a common occurrence.
So as she did when meeting the general she used the tools as the disposal to erase any of the wear and tear on her face, creating the illusion of flawless skin and unmatched beauty.
Of course, such art was only accompanied only by clothing she knew was both stylish and comfortable.
Tight denim jeans that emphasized her body, her sole purpose for wearing them as to mainly distract anyone she needed to, she was very much a fan of the art of seduction and manipulation after all, and a loose button up thrown over a tank top.
Her hair was down, perfectly straight and brushed behind a single ear.
And though she was proud of her look, she couldn't help but frown.
It didn't… feel like her.
Hana Song had been an idol.
She had been a gamer, top of the line that hundreds of thousands had lined up to see. She had been a movie star, an actor, and a soldier.
She had been the heartthrob of millions of boys, and the envy of girls.
But… then everything changed.
She had fought and been kidnapped.
The world reared its ugliest part and she came out alive.
Before, none of this would be given her pause.
The way she looked a perfect mask to distract others, a perfect cover for her. A way to distract and to steal the attention whenever she wanted it.
And though she had never used her power for anything truly immoral….
This look.
She blinked.
It didn't…
It felt weird.
Different.
Just like when the gaming scene found her…
Another change was it?
Did she not want to be the center of the town? Did she not want eyes on her?
Heck even the mission required her to be bait! Might as well flaunt her presence right?!
She was bound to have a few people asking for autographs or something!
A blade. A mask. Fear…
She grit her teeth, and with a violent shake turned away.
Just thoughts. Stupid thoughts. I'm Hana Song! Come on! How many times have I fooled creeps and desperate people, and stolen the show! I can go into a town and get attention! And I can disappear whenever!
She grinned.
Of course she could! She still had a riddle to solve after all.
So she sucked it in and stood tall.
She faced the mirror and smirked.
wasn't afraid of anything.
She stepped out of the restroom head high and a eyes bright.
Claire simply raised an eyebrow.
"Going ok a hot date?"
Hana rolled her eyes, "gotta look good for the fans." She winked, before going to her room and exchanging her travel bag for a backpack.
Her handgun under her button up, hoodie in her backpack along with a new shirt and better running shoes, a wig, and a few bottles of water.
Never knew when you'd need a hug out bag after all.
Leaving her room behind, she looped her arm through Claire's, who was still patiently waiting and started towards the kitchen,
It was easy to tell Marques was in there, his loud voice carrying into the y'all the closer they got, and both Kolden and Ana's laughs carrying to Hanas ears with true joy in them.
The two girls turned the corner and-
"Well look who's up!" Marques beamed, none of last night's pain evident in his voice.
She smirked at him, "beauty takes time."
Kolden raised an eyebrow while Ava grinned widely, "you look great Captain!"
Hana groaned, "don't call me captain here. I hear it enough at base."
Ava blushed and nodded quickly while Kolden waved her statement off, "so, Captain-,"
He purposely ignored her glare.
"-what're the plans for today? I'd like to climb mount fuji while we're here."
It wasn't necessarily wrong for her team to want to do Touristy things, after all she'd love to spend a night scouring the nightlife of Tokyo, but the risks we're just too much to bear.
What if the white ninja man came after Ava? The girl wasn't as adapt at hand to hand…
Or, what if the Reaper snuck up on Kolden or Marques? They weren't helpless but against something like that…
She didn't want to imagine what would happen.
But she needed a library and having fought several of the world's deadliest fighters and lived she could confidently say she'd be safe alone.
So she'd have to lie, and find a way to get her team to stick together while she found a library and found out what this damn riddle was all about.
Hopefully whoever was watching them was distracted by her friends while she slipped away.
Though she didn't condone using her friends as bait, after all she was supposed to be the bait, but sometimes…
Damn. How could she justify abandoning them?
"Well," she started, "i was thinking of hitting the town. We don't want to get caught alone in Tokyo with Talon out and about."
Marques instantly waved off her comment, "Talon, Shmalon, with all of us together we'd be fine," he reached behind him and pulled out his handgun, waving it once as he continued, "plus were a team, and they'd have to take all of us."
She narrowed her eyes at him, "Talons not some gang you can scare into submission."
He shook his head with a grin, "we'll be fine Hana."
"I said the town." She retorted, her smirk lowering.
Marques frowned, "why not Tokyo? Sure it's big, but that's the whole point. Lost in the crowds, easy to trap someone-"
"Easy to be followed" she interrupted, "collateral damage," she stepped forward her voice growing harsher, "more than enough places for us to get ambushed from," she stepped forward again, reaching the table and leaning over to face Marques, "dozens of skyscrapers for snippers to pick us off without being able to do a damn thing about it."
He held her eyes and she huffed before continuing, "small town. Better cover, less people, and easier to cover our tracks with the woods all around. Plus, it's close to here so we can fall back."
His eyes narrowed at her.
"What're you not telling us?"
She blinked
Had she been that obvious?
She glanced around, and to her genuine surprise everyone's eyes were on her.
But she held her head and glared down Marques.
"No. I'm just playing it smart. Going to Tokyo is a death sentence."
The tower were silent, Kolden, Ava, and Julian and glancing among one another in genuine confusion.
Whatever Claire was doing she didn't know considering she was behind her, but she didn't dare look away from Marques.
Obviously he wasn't over last night, but she couldn't let him throw everything off track.
They had a mission.
And she was going to find out whoever it was that was after her again.
He shook his head, "fine, we go into town."
His frown instantly flipped and he shrugged, "they've probably got better food anyway, and I'm driving so I choose the first place!"
The larger boy spun on his heel and started towards the front door which was conveniently located only about 20 feet to the right of the kitchen.
Koldens eyes growing wide as he gasped, "no! Last time you picked I ended up eating live octopus! Hell no!"
Glasses ended up scrambling away with less grace than a dying mule, and Ava laughed as she too hopped off her seat and followed.
Impressive how Marques had such reign on his emotions.
She could admire that.
"Captain?"
She blinked an glanced up at Jullian.
He was looking down at her, his face contorted in a tired smile.
She sighed and nodded, "I'm fine. Just… fine."
He nodded and after a few steps to the door, held it open from both her and Claire, the latter of the two having been silent the entire time till-
"Never seen him so worked up." Claire spoke up.
She glanced back at the blonde, "he's always been dramatic."
The girl raised an eyebrow.
Hana rolled her eyes.
"Okay maybe not always, but you died and… things were just rough for all of us."
Jullian, despite his absence in the conversation nodded solemnly, which Claire took in stride as she then responded, "and I'm assuming that's what with you and Nate? You were… processing?"
The word weren't cold. They were genuine and curious, care and warmth embedded into the very irises.
One of the best things about Claire was that she cared about everyone, and Hana smiled as she nodded, "mostly. That's a big bag of drama I don't want to open right now."
Claire nodded and stretched, her hand standing harmlessly on the countertop she leaned on, "well then let's hit the town and find some nice stuff to blow money on."
Hana grinned. "Let's."
And as the the girls chatted, following Julian outside, a dormant light right underneath the countertop where Claire had been leaning went red.
Whenever I thought about suits and ties, I thought of the movies like Men in Black and Casino Royal, and being some super sexy spy sleeping with everything that moved and… well you get me.
But!
I never would've guessed that my life as a Guardian would've lead me to dressing like them.
Yet here I stood, walking straight to a hotel dressed in a five hundred dollar tux with a thick black coat over my shoulders.
I kept my head high, and strode straight to the front doors.
The hotel was a five star monstrosity whose name I honestly-
Marriott.
-had already forgotten, but I walked right in as if I owned the place and to the front desk.
I've created a false identity for you, made you the inheritor of some rich asshole who owned a company overseas in the United States. Names Franco Rogen.
Thanks, any cash to back it up?
A few thousand. Can't steal much more without becoming obvious.
Makes sense.
I smiled at the clerk, an older woman with tired eyes and a frown etched on her face.
"Excuse me ma'am, where's the fundraiser for Anthony Meza?"
She blinked slowly at me, obviously unimpressed and simply twitched her head to her right before returning to the magazine in hand.
"Thanks?" I smiled before leaving her behind, my dress shoes echoing on the tiled floor as I started towards the hallway on her right.
My eyes briefly took in the lobby, massive area that was opened up all the way to the roof at least ten stories into the air with an indoor pool in the middle, tables, snack machines and plenty of other trinkets.
It was fancy, but the lack of residents was interesting.
So I followed the hallway, a finely lit and decorated thing, and almost immediately found it in the form of two large doors open wide with the sounds of people socializing echoing out.
I stepped to the doors and spent a quick second observing the interior.
The room… a ballroom I'm assuming, was massive. Two floors within the room itself, dozens of people talking, dozens of others dancing in the center of the room, a few ice sculptures, chandeliers and an entire food/drink bar.
Then there were the bounces, two large men on either side of the doors I was about to walk through.
Of course, they approached me within a second, one holding up a hand as the other raised a tablet.
"Name?"
I put you under Tony Mellark. Not stark cause that's too obvious.
"Tony Mellark."
The first bouncer nodded and tapped on the tablet as he stepped back, the other holding out his hand for me to proceed.
"Thanks," I replied and walked past them, instantly becoming absorbed by the dozens of other investors around.
Most of the people ignored me, too self absorbed in their own conversation to even worry about the world around them, while a few did give me generous smiles of greeting.
So, where on Earth is this kid were looking for?
Not really a kid. He's twenty one, but he's up on the second floor talking to some… model? Don't know what her name is. But don't be creepy.
He's the one hosting this isn't he?
Nah. His dad is.
Well, then I act like I'm trying to find his father. Anything I need to know?
His father invested in a company called Vishkar a few years back. They're based here actually, dedicated to making hard light structures and technology.
Neat.
Yeah, they have reps here. Some woman and a dude, not much older than you honestly. But if you're gonna look for his dad, try to fake interest in his new project called 'Eden'. Supposed to be a new super mall with an emphasis on renewable energy.
I easily slithered through the crowd, careful not to draw attention and accepting a drink from one of the waiter milling about serving the crowd.
Gotcha. Nothing too hard, just keep an eye out on the cameras. Don't want any surprises, also how's Angela?
Bitter, and dry, the red liquid splashed against my tongue, my eyebrow twitching in general disgust before forcing it down.
Had to make myself look the part.
She's fine. I've been keeping track of her. Sh actually just got out of surgery, helped some poor kid with tumor in her head. Nice work. Very efficient.
I nodded ever so slightly, genuinely glad she was helping someone rather than just spiting me.
I made it to the stair in the backside of the dance floor, glancing at the small orchestra arranged just to play these slow, smooth waltz's.
My feets every so gently carried me up the stairs, and I was careful to sip my wine and keep my eyes peeled as I did so.
The moment my feet purchased ground on the second floor did my eyes land on the boy I was looking for.
A burst of positive feeling from Digs end confirmed my suspicion.
So without breaking a sweat I started over to the boy.
The woman he was talking to was tall and golden, her hair a beautiful black, and her eyes a piercing red from obvious cosmetic surgery.
Still, she was stunning, and her dress, though gorgeously made, left very little to the imagination regarding her chest and hips.
Her eyes were the first to find me, running me up and down the way a lion would study its prey.
But my own eyes didn't back down, instead a confident smirk replacing my indifferent smile as I approached.
Obviously she was impressed and turned her attention to me, and ever so flirtatious smile dancing on her face as she studied her newest prey.
She probably thought I was both rich and good looking.
Jokes on her I'm broke.
Plus my attention already on Han-
I blinked, my smirk flattering as the boy, who was just my height, turned to me.
Wait. What was it thinking?
Hana? No, no no. Please.
She hates me. Not like I'm her biggest fan either, I'm mean come on she-
"Can I help you?"
I blinked again and realize the boys looking at me, his eyes confused and obviously irritated that I interfered with his 'game' though I think she's the one doing the seducing.
I shake my head, and my confident smile reappears as I stretch out my hand.
What's his name?
His name N'Tuk Meza. Mixture of Arabic and African I think. Not sure about this times naming strategies.
"N'Tuk right?" I asked, a shit eating grin still on my face pretending to he purely ignorant to his annoyance.
"Yeah and you are?" The boy sighed, trying to be polite despite his obvious desire to get rid of me.
"My bad, names Franco. Franco Rogen, I'm actually looking for your father, I was interested in one of his newest projects and was wondering if you could show me where he was?"
"Yeah he actually-"
My eyes turned to the woman, "I'm so sorry, forgive my rudeness I didn't even catch your name?"
Nate… what're you doing?
Strategy. How soon can you get me a hug to plant on him?
Buy me five minutes.
Can do.
The woman smiled, obviously flattered, "the name is Elizabeth. Mr. Rogen."
See there's a trick to planting a bug on someone.
I nodded as she reached her hand to shake mine, which instead I took and gave a gentle kiss to the back of her palm.
"Pleasure."
Of course I noticed the barely concealed jealousy radiating of N'Tuk.
Jealousy, step one. Not only was he easy to read being jealous, but his focus was suddenly and intensely drawn to his new rival aka me.
See the dude just wanted to sleep with her, was thrilled with the idea of taking her and thought his name and money would make it easy.
Obviously he couldn't tell she was playing him.
Probably was gonna get off with just kissing him then taking off with a few thousand dollars of his.
"Ah Mr Rogen?"
I turned, "oh yeah, sorry N'Tuk, I was distracted by this sculpture of perfection that is obviously your girlfriend."
His cheeks grew red, and she giggled as he shook his head in the negative, "oh, um no, no, we're not like. Together together, just talking and you know. Just… yeah?"
I nodded, "my apologies N'Tuk. But still you must tell me how you met such a beauty? My wife, was once just as beautiful but alas she passed only four years prior to today."
His embarrassment died and you could see the guilt riddle his face as he added, "ah sorry to hear that."
I smiled at both him and Elizabeth, "it's no problem. Such is life after all."
Step two, make him guilty and embarrassed, which just compounds off the fact he was just jealous of me.
See I'd done this whole distracting thing before, back in the tower.
Kathy had pointed it out to me how good I was at bullshitting, which was a rare talent apparently.
So we used to BS our way into getting new stuff and one time planted a bug on the leader of some religious sect in the Last City.
"What did she do?" Elizabeth asked, her eyes feigning with curiosity, as N'Tuk feigned interest out of guilt.
"Ah well you see, she actually-"
"Excuse me ."
All of heads turned and a dark woman of impeccable posture, an aura of superiority bubbling her, stood before us dressed in a both exquisite and extravagant dress.
I raised an eyebrow, genuinely curious as to who this person as her chocolate eyes completely ignored me and she only looked at N'Tuk.
"Where is your father? I have a matter to discuss with him regarding Vishkar's operations in Eastern Europe."
Names Satya Vaswani. One of Vishkars… field operatives? Interesting. Dig informed me, his presence amplifying as he was obviously interested in our exchange.
Sounds like a cover for a hit squad.
Doubt it. Nothing in her file suggests she's a killer. She is slightly on the Autism Spectrum though, but her IQ is impressively high. Given the right tools she might even be as smart as Angela, and trust me when I say that's no easy feat. Also, the bug is ready.
Thank god.
I simply watched with a polite smile as N'Tuk turned to me, "Oh, actually Ms. Vaswani, Mr. Rogen here was also looking for my father. He's actually in the far corner of the first floor directly below us."
He gave me a truly polite nod which I returned.
Satya simply nodded, "Thank you." And turned, though I noticed her eyes narrowing at me.
I simply kept her gaze as she turned and left, curious as to why she was singling me out.
A sixth sense for the bizarre most likely. A trait women share, that unfortunately us males do not.
"Well," I turned to both Elizabeth and N'Tuk, chuckling softly after the rather abrupt interruption, "aside from the pleasant company of Vishkar, I would that you both for entertaining me. Alas, I must be off."
I turned to the black widow, smiling at her perceptively honey filled smile.
"Ms. Elizabeth." Once more I took her hand and gently kissed it.
I didn't give N'Tuk time to react as I quickly clasped his shoulder afterwards, "treat her well boy. Rare gems like are getting harder and harder to find."
He simply shook his head with a stupid grin, "Uh, yeah no problem man. Anytime."
Of course though, both of them were distracted enough, and the place was lit well enough that the small flash of light on his back was easily forgotten and covered.
And so I turned away, heading back to the stairs as I feigned looking around for his father, barely even following the boys directions.
The bugs small and wont register on metal detectors. It'll active recon once it's in his residence, wherever that may be. No idea what we'll find though.
Maybe what he's hiding. Winston said that he reappeared as if nothing happened. Maybe a bit of, scary Guardian with super crazy lightning powers will scare him into speaking.
Worth a shot. Wheres he live?
What part of I don't know do you not get?
Hana frowned, her eye twitching unceremoniously as she looked at the drizzling rain beyond the coffee shops window.
"Your turn is." Ava's voice smiled from across her, and Hana sighed tiredly, though she did try and force a smile at the kind girl.
She looked to the chess board between them, her mind suddenly turning to tactics as she studied the field before her.
Ava was holding back her knight and her queen was set to run across the board and strike down Hana's castle. However if she moved her pawn just right she could intercept the Queen, but if she moved her own Queen out and sacked Ava's pawn next to the king she would check her, but then she'd be trapped by another pawn then a bishop. Then there was her own bishop.
If she used it to strike out Ava's far castle on the other side of the board and left her Castle to draw in her queen for her own to strike it down. It would be a sacrifice but then she would have taken Ava's best piece off the board.
So she moved her bishop, knocking out Ava's Castle in the far right corner.
The girl frown but before Hana could even say turn, the girl was already moving.
A move Hana didn't see, and Ava threw forward her own bishop flying out from the corner to strike down the Castle she had laid out to bait the Queen.
Smart. It meant Hana had to choose which to knock out, but Hana wasn't a pro at strategy games for no reason.
She had left a knight in the back, covering the flank of her pawn and Queen right where the younger girl had dropped her Bishop and queen.
So she leapt, and the knight diced the bishop.
Ava, realizing she had been trapped, gulped and her eyes went wide.
She backed her Queen, but as she released the piece just as she saw Hana's opening.
"Wait-"
Hana didn't wait and she shoot forward her Queen, knocking out Ava's second Castle at a perfect angle, which left her last bishop open to the queen.
Ava retaliated by moving her rook up to form a wedge between her king and Hana's advancing army. If she didn't, she had a perfect strike with her bishop at the king.
It was defensive, and smart, but also foolish when playing against her.
Because now she had her trapped.
She grinned.
The thrill of victory, always a sweet taste.
She simply moved her Knight up, taking the Queen that had been left open now.
Avas face formed into one of confusion, then recognition. Her mouth dropped and she huffed crossing her arms in a playful pout.
Hanas queen had the bishop, the wedge Ava had forced that and the king was stuck behind the wedge. With the other one out thanks to Hana's Knight, and her bishop set to strike the last of Ava's Castles next to the king she knew she was done.
"Check Mate." Hana smiled.
The japanese girl frowned then smiled and shook her head, "so close! So so close!"
She threw her hands up in frustration and Hana laughed lightly.
"Gotta play five steps ahead Ava."
The two turned to Claire who was cross armed, sitting at the table across from them with a single headphone in one ear and her phone out.
"Starcraft champion for two years, Captain for the diamondback in League of Legends for three years even won two world championships, and won three tournaments in the Call of Duty X."
Ava's eyes went wide and Hana rolled her eyes. Ava, she knew, like everyone else knew she was famous but she was famous for multiple reasons.
She was an idol, a few songs, a few movies, her pro going career and the leader of the top Mekka Squad.
Plus after the past six months she hadn't really felt a need to tell the newcomer that she had once been a top of the line pro gamer.
Somehow, it felt…. irrelevant to their everyday lives.
"Wow! So many wins!" Ava clapped her hands together, "my brother, love to meet you! He play lots of League!"
She smiled, "maybe on the next family day, and you, let's play." She jabbed her finger at Claire who raised her hands.
"I don't wanna embarrass myself."
"Chicken." she chuckled devilishly.
Claire rolled her eyes with a playful smile, and simply went back to her phone.
With a content smile Hana looked back to the board as Ava set up another game and instantly grew bored.
Her attention turned to the shop. It was partially packed, and the air was warm.
Wooden walls, soft couches and plush chairs.
A definite hang out spot for the local teens she could tell, but aside from the dozens or so teens within, there were a few adults, then of course her team.
Now her team...
Marques and Kolden were over at the Computers playing some games or whatever,
Jullian was off to the side with a warm cup of coffee and a large magazine on his lap.
Claire to her side on her phone with a latte, and of course her and Ava playing chess.
Initially when they parked, the clouds had just rolled in and the girls split up to shop at the nearest clothing store where as the boys had split for the nearest trinket and souvenir store.
Which explained the bags next to her and Claire, plus the small one on Ava's lap.
She had been planning to slip the group when they ventured to the next store, but then the rain started and man did it pour.
They had been right next to the coffee shop, and running in the opposite direction towards the library would've definitely raised suspicion.
And she didn't want either her team or their unknown quarry spooking from such random behavior.
So here she was, killing time till she could slip away.
Honestly, at this point trying to make a break for the library was basically out of the question.
There was no way to escape her team.
And the last thing she needed was more questions.
She just needed time, time to figure it out on her own.
Her eyes traveled to the windows, once more during the rain and gray clouds above.
Despite her desire to figure out the riddle, she was definitely growing bored.
Beating people at chess was only so much fun.
She sat back and stretched, her eyes wandering over to the computer.
Truthfully, she had wondered about using the computers to research her riddle, but that would've defeated the whole purpose of keeping a low profile and off the grid.
She glanced back to the door…
Maybe…
Just maybe…
"Okay I'm officially bored."
She looked up and found Marques walking over to them, planting himself in the seat across from Claire with a 'hmph', just as Kolden pulled a chair up to them.
"You bored of games? Never thought I'd hear those words." Claire smiled, the light in her eyes warmer than normal as she looked at Marques.
He shrugged, "computers are only so much fun. I'm a Microsoft kinda guy."
"Barbarian." Kolden jabbed which resulted in Marques punching his shoulder.
It was then the boy eyes that turned to Hana.
"So, Captain, what do we do now? Though I'll admit, even Tokyo would suck in the rain."
She rolled her smiled, glad he wasn't going to hold any grudge over this mornings argument.
Now for the other night… well, she was sure he'd bring it up eventually.
Still she supposed she should answer, and as her mouth opened her eyes glanced to the street again.
"Well, it's pouring, and unless we wanna stay locked in the house…."
A boring choice for all of them she was sure.
"Maybe we make run for the mall?" Ava offered up, and the group turned to her.
She blushed at the influx of attention, which Hana noted now included Jullian who had somehow snuck up on them, then stammered, "I see sign for mall outside. I think big one, but not sure?"
The mall!
If they made a break for it she could slip out to the library and just like about getting distracted at an antique shop or something!
Yes. That would work.
It had too.
The girl gave a sheepish smile, and Hana nodded before looking to the others.
"Well any other good ideas?" She asked with a somber smile.
No one spoke and Kolden sighed, "damn it, I'm gonna get sick…"
The words prompted the others to chuckled and Marques stood, slapping the boy on the shoulder, "ah you'll live! It's just some water!"
She shook her head, Claire standing with a huff just as Ava beamed and jumped to her feet.
A few eyes glanced at them, but Hana was relieved to see that they simply looked away either bored or simply intrigued by their decision to go outside.
Still, it was a chance for her escape.
So she lead her team to the door, a moment of hesitation filling her heart as she thinks about running in the rain.
Hopefully it wasn't cold.
"Ready?" She grinned.
Whether or not they agreed she didn't know, but she yanked the door open and five bodies charged outside, her own feet following after them.
The rain slapped into them the moment they left the shelter of the shop.
The sidewalk was covered in water, and her shoes barely protected her from the wet and cold.
It poured their skin and clothes, and the thick water drenched their faces, nearly blinding a few of them.
A few other people were out an about, most carrying umbrellas as they walked through the downpour.
However her friends simply dashed forward, Hanas feet slowing ever so slightly as they went.
Ava's voice carried through the rain, but the words were lost to Hana in the constant patter of the rain.
The group took a left on the corner of the next street, Hana's eyes going wide when she realized she had no idea where they were going.
Splash!
Her foot sank into a puddle and she stumbled forward, catching herself on a telephone pole.
Apparently even sidewalks had potholes.
Her shoe was soaked and she grumbled as she pulled back, glancing after her friend despite the uncomfortable situation.
It was hard to see, but she managed to glance them up ahead still keeping pace.
They had slowed, and she noticed someone turning around, most likely to look for her.
She went wide eyes and dashed backwards, careful not to slip on the water.
She pulled her phone out and started back towards the coffee shop.
Now Hana Song was not a big person, but she was able to cover her phone from the rain at the very least.
Her map was up almost immediately and she was pleased to know the library was only a few blocks south from her.
She looked back and if she just focused she could barely hear her friends calling for her through the rain.
Damn.
She forgot to think of a real excuse for leaving them.
Even as she kept towards the library she looked up as lightning flared in the sky above.
They'd probably come looking for her in the rain.
Why didn't she realize that?
Stupid, stupid, stupid…
So, with her brilliant planning skills, she simply opened up a text and sent it to Ava.
It was easy and to the point.
She was with Nate.
A complete and utter lie, but they knew they were to have Overwatch oversite so who else would they think it was most likely to be?
Plus Marques didn't like him and she'd be willing to bet money that'd it'd be enough to deter him.
Without caring to read any response, she pulled her map back up and increased her pace.
It was cold after all, and the rain had already drenched her down to the bra.
Not a pleasant feeling.
So she ran now, her steps awkward and large as she went, turning a few corners, sticking to the sidewalk as cars drove by.
One even splashed her with a wall of water, but it did little to affect her since she was already soaked.
Still she kept going, her feet splashing, thunder booming, and the wind chilling her bones as she went.
Damn she should've brought a jacket.
It was pure luck the library was so close, so before she knew it she glanced at her phone and found herself right in front of the place.
She blinked, wiping away the water cascading down her face.
The place was smaller than imagined. A small concrete building in between two restaurants.
It had a few windows, and was carved to replicate older architectures from centuries ago. However the bright colors and signs screamed of twenty first century influence
The sign in front was neon green, screeching its existence as a library, and she grimaced as she walked to the front doors.
Automatic doors opened for her and she slipped on through.
Despite the more modern material and old design, the inside was simple.
The walls were painted an oak brown, and the roof was actually wooden inside, while the floor was carpeted.
A front desk was, as expected, the first thing within reach and she simply trotted forward, eyes scanning the place for any signs of life.
Squech.
Her feet squished in the soaked shoes and she shivered at the feeling.
Squech.
Squech.
"Kon'nichiwa." she looked to her right, and found an older man walking out from what she deemed were the restrooms.
His hair was a salt pepper, and his face carried more wrinkles than any other person she'd ever met. And she was in the army!
His smile was friendly but reserved, and he went behind the desk and raised his eyebrows at her.
She blinked, and chuckled sheepishly.
Of course she would forgot the most important part of trying to find books in Japan.
The need to speak Japanese.
"Uh, do you spell English?"
The man blinked and shook his head, obviously understanding her but confirming her suspicions.
She sighed.
"Neoneun hangug malhani?" she spoke, a hopefully smile in her face.
The mam again shook his head and she rubbed her forehead.
Of course he wouldn't speak Korean.
Should've taken those Japanese classes Kolden suggested a few months ago.
A voice suddenly pierced the air, "He may not speak Korean or English,"
She spun on her heel, though the Librarians only reaction was to raise an eyebrow.
A flash of green and two soft 'clanks' later, a familiar figure stood in front of her, having literally walked out from the bookshelves.
"But I do speak Japanese."
Genji looked down at her, cinematically closing a book in his hands as he inclined his head towards the librarian.
"and if I wasn't a super ninja, then I'd say you left your friends behind to come read books, which is strange considering I've never heard of ever reading a book for fun."
Its voice was full of infection, and considering the fact 'he' was an omnic, Hana felt a bit… weirded out.
She frowned, "I read a lot thank you very much, plus," she pointed a finger at the omnics face, "I don't like being stalked by robots."
That was when Genji's head rolled back and it let out the warmest laugh she had ever heard, his shoulder rising and dropping as his chest heave.
Immediately a blush burned in her cheeks.
Hell! Even the librarian was grinning at her!
But it was just the embarrassment of being laughed at that made her stammered, it was the… life, in this omnics movements.
The omnic lowered it's head and shook it gently at her, "Cyborg, Ms. Song. Not an omnic, though you are not the first to be confused as such."
She blinked.
Cyborg…
On the deep web and forums there had been rumors of Dr. Angela Zieglers experimentation with Cyborgs and robotics but…
It had never been confirmed!
Never! She would've known!
Her eyes went wide and her hand went to her mouth as her blush intensified ten fold.
"I am so sorry!"
The taller Cyborg simply waved it off and patted her shoulder, "it is not a problem. The confusion is common, and it's not like my existence as a Cyborg is well known."
"But we've talked! And you never corrected me and here I was thinking you were just a pile of bolts and metal and…. Ugh!" She threw her head back and rubbed her temples.
Genji, for his part chuckled softly, "like I said, it is fine. Ms. Ziegler would laugh if she heard you though."
"Ugh…." She growled and looked at the floor, "I'm an idiot."
Genji shrugged, "perhaps."
Her cheeks burned.
"But, maybe if you explain to me why you've left the safety of your team, I'll take it back."
She looked up at the Cyborg who was surprisingly not even looking at her and instead at the books on the front desk.
To her relief the librarian himself had disappeared. At least she wasn't completely embarrassed.
Still, now Genji, this… Cyborg, was asking her why she was here.
That wasn't good.
The whole point of ditching her team had been to avoid any unwanted attention and because she didn't want anyone else to be caught in the line of fire if she got in trouble.
"And if I don't?" Her voice had a bit of bite in it, and though internally sheet flinched at the time, she kept a straight face.
It- no, he… he sighed, and turned to her.
"Ms. Song I prefer not to intrude on ones private life." Then he gestured to the building around them, "but this is highly unlikely you. At least to my knowledge."
"So you won't say anything?" She asked, biting her lip ever so slightly.
The Cyborg stared at her for a moment then turns to face her fully.
"Ms. Song, let me say that you are not the only one with secrets, or a mission of their own."
His voice lost all it's jollity and warmth, and for a mental it reminded her of Nate.
Damn. What was with her and these dark characters?
She frowned at him, "you didn't answer my question."
Suddenly his body language shifted and her crossed his arms, as the warmth returned in full, "well, I'd most likely report it to Winston who'd most likely give it Nathaniel or Lena."
She flinched and she could almost feel his gaze narrow at her, "which I'm assuming you don't want?"
The girl simply stood there.
Damn. What was she supposed to do now?
Did she tell him?
What if he could help? He was apart of Overwatch…. Maybe he had access to more resources than she did.
"Help, is not weakness Ms. Song. After all, you are the one who helped us in Vienna of your own free will."
She gulped and kicked her foot in to the carpet.
Maybe…
She looked behind her, then further into the library.
Aside from them, and the librarian wherever the heck he went, they were alone.
But if there was anything she knew, after the tablet coming to life remotely, she didn't trust technology either.
She sighed and dropped her bag.
She looked at the Cyborg and took her phone from her pocket before placing it on the front desk.
Again, she checked to see if they were alone.
She huffed.
Then, she motioned for him to follow and threw her finger in front of her lips.
Somehow, Genji's steps grew softer and she had to check to ensure he was following her as they slipped deep into the library.
It was a fairly long building, and by the time they made it to the back, Hana was vaugeky hoping the Librarian hadn't put her stuff in a lost in found or whatever.
She glanced around, looking for any cameras or other wireless electronics before walking in between a pair of shelves and leaning against one with a great sigh.
Genji, despite his stature and size was silent as he stopped next to her, his arms still crossed and his head now tilted down to her, green visor humming softly.
She gulped and rubbed the back of her neck.
"How much do you know?"
He shrugged, "I was told all that was needed. I was to provide assistance to you in and that we are facing an unknown entity that has its sights on you."
She nodded, "that's the gist of it. Did Winston mention that tablet?"
He inclined his head and she took his silence as a hard no.
"In my bag, is a tablet. The assailant left it with me. Last night… it turned on. It had a riddle on it. Probably a test."
He was still for a moment then replied, "many gangs have initiations that are meant to test the physical resolve of its members. A riddle, sounds like a mental test."
We need people who are smart…
The words rang in her head and she grimaced.
"Well," she sighed, "it says, um, from times of silver and gold, the first of his kind, the most powerful of ours? That's how it starts at least. Now idea what that means."
The ninja was silent and she sighed again.
"Well," he started looking to the books, "I assume you came to the library in an attempt to understand this riddle?"
"Yup."
He nodded, "very well. I shall help you Mrs. Song. After all, Cyborg ninjas are great detectives!"
She chuckled.
"Thanks, and um… could we keep this under wraps? I don't think anyone should know just yet. It could be nothing…"
The ninja stepped back to look at the shelves.
"I believe that to be an understatement Ms. Song. After all, it could mean everything."
I glanced down, the rain peppering my helmet.
My cape fluttered, and from my perch I probably looked like a gargoyle stalking his prey.
Lights illuminated the streets below and I narrowed my gaze.
My quarry's car took a left and followed the road.
"Anything unusual?"
"Nothing," Dig replied in my helmet, "he's just flirting with her still. Though she actually seems partly interested now."
"Good for him I guess."
Still, this is just making me feel like I wasted my night.
So far, the boy hadn't shown anything, nothing even remotely interesting or informing as why he disappeared then reappeared without a trace.
Hopefully, when he got back to his home he would slip up and let something come loose.
After all, I had all night to see what he was up too.
Aside from trying to get into Elizabeth's pants that is.
Fucking player.
As the car started to leave my line of sight, I followed.
A flash of light, which could easily be mistaken as lightning in this weather, and I blinked to the next roof.
Thunk, thunk!
My feet trudged against the sleek metal as I ran, before jumping and boosting, using the extra height to align myself with the next roof before I blinked over to it.
The chase so far had brought me towards the end of the skyline, which impressively lasted over twenty blocks, but now as I got closer to the ground, my jumps we're getting easier to make, yet harder to keep secret.
At any moment a civilian could spot me if they really looked.
I rolled as I hit another roof, careful to avoid the shining metal dish pointed towards the sky.
The roof pulsated with blue light, and I wondered what material it was made of.
It seemed that most of the building were built of hard light or titanium, but the science of it all was lost on me.
I looked around, following the way point Dig had set and again blinked forward, appearing on the ledge of the roof before kicking off and using thrusters to carry me over the alley below and onto the next building.
My feet landed effortlessly and I glanced to up watching as the way point, aka the car I was following once more changed directions.
"Honestly, where does this guy live? Talk about dragging out the seduction…"
I looked for the nearest building, another ten story hardlight structures across a small street, and readies myself to jump.
Light pumped in my veins, and my eyes focused-
Whoosh!
Orange light flared up behind me, the orange light of fire.
I turned around, my hands instantly going to my weapons, and blinked as I saw the roof was empty.
"Dig?"
"Well, I don't know what that flash was… but, cameras suggest just two blocks down something… exploded or.. I don't know blew fire? Its weird. The cameras in the exact area are all offline."
I narrowed my gaze.
"Weird…"
He ran.
Rain fell
Lights flickered on and off.
The alley and it's shadows clawed at his soul.
His feet carried him God knows where.
His heart raced as the booming voices of his assailants chased after him.
God, he had finally escaped! Finally!
But now they were on him, using the damn gangs of Oasis to hunt him down!
Fucking assholes! He just wanted to be left alone!
Suddenly his hand grew warm, and his eyes went wide.
No no! Not again!
Fuck!
That damn fire blast had already gotten their attention! He couldn't have it drawing in more people!
No no!
He looked up.
Too late.
Wham!
He flipped and hit the ground face first rolling to a hard stop against something metal.
Iron filled his mouth and he spat out blood.
Damn.
"Oh how kiddo, now where do you think your going?"
The voice was taunting and he glanced up to see a large man with a metal pipe standing above him.
"Talon pays pretty well. Wonder what we'll get for turning you in alive and wriggling to them."
His eyes went wide and he scrambled against the metal behind his back. Porbabkg a dumpster.
His arms grew warm.
No no! He couldn't!
Four more men appeared. They laughed at having caught him finally.
The lights flickered again in the rain.
Damn it all!
He was so close!
He looked to the building behind them.
It was hardight, like most of Oasis. He just needed to get to the side door.
He tried to stand, but the wet sidewalks, metallic for whatever reason, made him slip back on to his ass.
"Ah hah! You can do better kid! Come on!"
The man yanked him to his feet-
Wham!
A fist carried past his face, his jaw aching as he stumbled further into the alley, his hands barely catching him from hitting his face.
He coughed.
Damn…
"Excuse me."
He blinked.
It was a girl's voice and he looked up.
A small girl, no older than twelve with dark skin and large eyes looked down at him with a sad smile.
"Are you okay?"
He just stared.
"Hey girly! Better back off! Little girls like you get beaten for less around here! Scramble on home to mama!"
The voice of the pipe wielder.
The girl sighed and looked up.
Clank. Clank.
His eyes went wide and up…. And up…
There was a machine behind her.
Tall, green with horns, piercing yellow eyes.
"And I must ask you not resist."
The machine raised it's arm, a large Cannon pointing directly at the men.
"Though I am programmed to avoid violence, I will make an exception today."
A/N
Hey guys! I'm back! It's been a…. Time lately, but I'm finally running on all gears again, so I got this out ASAP.
A quick update on myself, I've started going a bit more legit in the writing world, and have actually self published a few short stories on a site called Tapas. So, if you guys like my stuff, I'd really appreciate any support you're willing to give, whether its constructive criticism on my short stories, reviews, follows, anything really. My profile name on there is Lee Marburn. The link to my dashboard is on my profile since I can't upload it on this document. -_-
I also may or may not start a that will take commissions for both original works, and fanfiction stuff for this site.
Anyways, thanks again! So back to the Darkest Knight!
So we have Hana and Genji becoming mischievous together.
Nate tracking down some conspiracy or something else as usual.
And now, Orisa there at the end! I'd always planned for her and Effi, to be introduced here and I'm happy to have finally got here.
Now what's going on with this random boy? Who is he, and why would Talon want him?
Reviews:
Stormeye7: that's the whole point. Nate was never meant to be this boy scout you're always rooting for. He antisocial and has trauma that makes him do rash and unlikable things. The story is about his growth.
MetricSonicJosh: no worries. Drama won't last long, but Hana and Nate are on separate adventures right now so yeah.
StelarToe6133: he already had it with Hana and Tracer. Back in England.
If anyone has any questions feel free to PM me!
Also there's going to be a poll on my page and it involves the ending of this story. Nothing's spoiled but I want your opinions on it.
So please go to my profile and vote on the poll! Thanks!
Anyways thank you guys so much for sticking this through with me.
Take care and God bless!
-Metal4k