Once Betrayed, Twice Shy
Disclaimer: I do not own Huntik or any of its characters.
Sophie
To be honest, I can't stand Zhalia. I don't know why, but something about her attitude always gets on my nerves. She's self-centred, rude and has a sharp tongue. Her behaviour seemed pretty suspicious as well. My intuition was spot-on - Zhalia betrayed us all. Maybe it's just my cynical side talking, or maybe it's because she turned her back on us so many times, like the time when she stood by and watched as we desperately fought to stay alive. Surprisingly, she chose to go against the Organization and helped us in the end. Still, I had my doubts. Since she's confused about where her loyalty lies, there's no telling when she might betray us again.
But after hearing Zhalia's story, I somehow feel sorry for her. I'll never be able to understand what she's been through. Though we both lost our parents, I was lucky to be raised by people who actually cared about me. On the other hand, she never got to experience the love and security of a real family as she wandered the streets. And the Organization isn't exactly the ideal childcare centre. Gee, I wonder why it doesn't scream "warm and friendly" to me.
Considering Zhalia's circumstances, she turned out alright. I guess that's why I was able to bring myself to forgive her. I'm amazed at how Lok and Dante managed to do the same, since they obviously placed more trust in her than I did. I hope they weren't shaken up too badly.
Seeing that Dante's been spending more time in his room than usual, he probably took a hard hit. Erasing all thoughts of talking to him about Zhalia, I decided that it would be best to leave him alone. I went to check on Lok. He was slumped on the couch, his eyes fixed on the ceiling, seemingly in a daze.
"Lok, you okay?" I asked with concern. He seemed surprised by my sudden entrance, but quickly regained composure.
"Erm... yeah. It's kinda quiet lately."
I plopped myself on the couch next to Lok and sighed.
"It's great that the Foundation gave us some time off and all, but thinking zaps my energy even quicker than fighting," I yawned, stretching my arms to release the tension in my muscles.
"Yeah... I know what you mean. I'd rather fight than study," Lok replied, a tiny grin lurking at the corner of his mouth.
Well, that explains his grades. His nonchalance about the matter tempted me to give him a tongue-lashing about the importance of studying, but a slightly more tempting irrational thought made me decide to spare him. Spotting a stray pillow by the side of the couch, I grabbed it and flung it at Lok. Miss. He should thank his lucky stars that he has fast reflexes. Oh no, he's got the pillow. Mental note: remind Lok to check on Dante when this is over.