Hiya guys!
I made it quick, didn't I? :D Probably 'cause this chapter isn't as long as they usually are. And I wrote in English right from the start! I'm quite proud of it. It wasn't as difficult as I thought! I forgot to mention that the previous one was also originally in English. You guys are right, it's easier and faster that way.
Only one person commented so far, then, there'll be only more response to the review:
- Joey8: Wow, that's good that I stood up to your expectations! I was especially worried about this chapter, since it's like an important checkpoint of Zhalia and Dante's relationship development. I'd be disappointed if someone wrote it badly, but now I'm on the other side of the barricade - I'm not the one judging, but the judged one! Good I have very nice critics :)
I guess I was able to answer your question about Dante's view on Scarlet and her compared to Zhalia in this chapter. They are just my thoughts about why Dante isn't really interested in Scarlet and fancies other type of girl instead, however, maybe I exaggerrated some of his actions, words and gestures. I also used some of them to fit my opinion about their relationship.
I also noticed how Dante cares about Zhalia's well-being during the mission. One could think he'd be displeased by her stillness during the fight, but not Dante! I added a part about him suspecting Zhalia of being ill to justify his worry even more. Well, you'll see yourself and state if you liked the idea or not :)
Hahaha, did you read my ming somehow? 'Cause some guy like that will appear in two next chapters ^^ He was supposed to debut in chap. 16, however, I split the 15th into two parts and now chap. 16 turned into chap. 17. Those chapters will be completely mine, not basing on any episode. I'm so excited about them! I guess Kimberly would like them as well... ^^
I'm not going to blabber for another page. Just one word more: ENJOY!
Sha
14th July 2009, Tuesday, 13:12
On the way to County Meath
Ireland
'…As I'm actually writing a master's thesis on ancient burial grounds in Western Europe and their religious meaning for primitive cultures, I had to refresh my knowledge on the most famous spots of this type in Ireland and the UK. I started with the Palace of Boyne, like everyone would do in my place. Such a luck the largest European megalithic site is located in Ireland! Then, I'm going to visit Maeshowe in Scotland, and Brynn Celli Ddu in Wales. Of course Stonehenge is also on my mark…'
Dante nodded again, though he couldn't honestly say he had been listening. He was finding it really difficult to pay attention to Scarlet's monologue. At first he had thought they'd discuss the coming mission and exchange their remarks on the gathered info, however, he quickly realized that it wasn't the thing Scarlet was interested in. Although she was eager to share her knowledge with him, the scoops she had found were rather basic. During the talk, they interchanged with tales about her personal life too densely and out of blue. Getting some useful hints out of that mess wasn't that hard for a detective used to such disorganized speeches; but who said that separating the lentils from the ash was satisfying? He wasn't a Cinderella, damn it.
He waited for her to take a breath and then interrupted gently:
'Alright, but what about the clues suggesting there might be a Titan?'
Scarlet blinked few times; apparently, coming back to earth from the land of her goals and ambitions surprised her. However, she put herself together quickly.
'I found the essays of professor O'Kelly', she informed him, and seeing his expectant glare, she explained: 'You know, he led the 1962–1975 excavations… I found his disquisitions very interesting, as they contrasted greatly with the works of another researchers who regarded Newgrange as an evidence for the cult of the dead. However, professor O'Kelly stated the building of Newgrange cannot be regarded as other than the expression of some kind of powerful force or motivation', she quoted smoothly. 'Doesn't it sound familiar?'
'It does', Dante admitted, scratching his chin. 'The Titans have existed since ancient times and when they first appeared, humans regarded them as gods, eternal deities….'
'Exactly', Scarlet nodded, looking at him with admiration and excitement. 'It's no wonder they expressed their beliefs by creating such places in order to worship their protectors.'
Dante murmured in agreement, lost in his thoughts.
'Titans abandoned for ages tend to be unstable', he remarked. 'We'll have to be cautious, just in case it would go berserk.'
'No need to remind me', Scarlet smiled a bit. 'Don't you forget I'm a fully-fledged Seeker now.'
'I didn't mean anything bad', he added, though didn't feel ashamed at all.
'Don't worry', Scarlet waved her hand dismissively. 'When I think about it', she sat more comfortably at her seat and for a glimpse, looked at the landscape passing behind the glass as the train was flashing across the country, 'it seems almost like a dream… I signed my contract last year in April, remember? Right before we met. I was so excited!', she lowered her lids for a sec as a sign of embarrassment, then raised her intense stare at him without shying away, which gave him a strange feeling that it was a fake expression, a coquettish trick or something. 'My first day in the Foundation and I met its brightest star right away!'
He looked aside; though he heard compliments very often, he still couldn't get used to them. He preferred to move the course of the talk to safer areas.
'I hope to be lucky enough to see what progress you've made since then', he responded politely.
He quickly regretted it. Scarlet took the topic up willingly and started to tell him about her latest missions. If Dante really wanted to know that, he'd just open her Huntik profile. To make himself busy during another monologue, he checked what the others were doing.
Sophie leaned a small book on her lap and seemed lost in reading, only her eyes moved left and right. Dante peeked at the cover; The Shadow Of The Wind, a pocket edition. Well, better than reading all those commercial harlequins about shiny vampires, he guessed, smirking. Lok was eating one sandwich after another; when anyone was pointing it out to him, he was just shrugging and mumbling that he still grew up and needed a lot of food. Cherit accompanied him happily, chewing everything eatable; it was unclear if he also hoped to grow up despite his old age or if it was just his huge appetite. Dante wondered how many of their whining he'd have to stand when dinner time came and there would be nothing to eat. However, now everyone enjoyed the trip.
Well, almost everyone. Zhalia, curled in a distant part of the compartment, seemed rather sick. Her olive skin looked sallow, yellowish, like a clay mask, only her lips stroke with color, bloody red, with the skin bitten off. She had rings under her strangely glistening eyes, as if she hadn't slept well. Maybe due to the weather; the storm lasted the whole night. Or maybe she had a fever? He caught her glare and smiled to her gently, yet a bit worriedly; however, she didn't respond with her usual half-smirk, just twitched and turned to the window. Apparently something was wrong…
'Dante?', Scarlet addressed him a bit louder.
He shook his head and looked at her.
'I'm sorry', he murmured. 'I got distracted. What did you say?'
'I asked you about Zhalia', she repeated calmly, yet with curiosity coming through her kind voice.
'What about her?', Dante raised his brows. Maybe Scarlet also wondered if it was a right thing to take the woman for the mission.
'Who is she?', she investigated; a smile still on her face, but her eyes still and unmoved, like two mint drops. 'A friend of yours?'
Dante moved in his seat, feeling a bit uneasy. Was it any difference who Zhalia was? The most important thing was that if things would get rough, she'd be the only dependable person to help him out in defending the others. Of course if she would manage in that state…
'She's a capable Foundation operative', he answered firmly. 'One of the best. She once got us out of some serious trouble and we've been working together since.'
'Oh', Scarlet relaxed a bit, her chilly stare melting a bit. Then she giggled. 'As I see, your charm always makes women follow you everywhere you go…', she joked, tilting her head charmingly, like a cockatiel.
Dante cleared his throat and tried not to show his confusion. However, the Irish girl's gaze made him feel uneasy. Just like when he had met her in Venice. He had been pleasantly surprised when Uffizi, the Venice Compound chief, had introduced him to a young ethnology student. Her milky-white complexion had contrasted so strongly with fresh tans of Italian girls, however, she had looked nice with her long ginger hair dancing in the wind and fresh-green dress flowing around, accentuating her slender legs; like a nymph from far away woods who had gotten lost in the city noise. However, there hadn't been any sign of typical nymph-like insecurity in her face, raised high and embellished with a smile and playful sparks in her green eyes.
Asked to show her around the city, Dante had accepted out of politeness. They had spent quite a nice day together, visiting libraries, sightseeing and chattering. He had found Scarlet Byrne likeable, however, there were some things he wouldn't stand in any person, not only a fairly attractive girl. Like, for example, familiarity. Although he wasn't really a reserved person, there were topics he didn't like to be asked about on the first meeting. Maybe it was just him, used to hide his privacy and to question rather than be questioned… Scarlet didn't need any words of encouragement; she enjoyed talking about her personal life. Almost too much. Dante had learnt things he wouldn't even think about. It had puzzled him. He had been sitting in the small café, not knowing how to interrupt the talk nor change the topic, and just sipping his tea, wishing he was more assertive towards women. Those stupid manners. As a freaking gentleman, he had even seen her to the airport, paying for that with another stream of unnecessary info. He remembered his relief when Scarlet had finally given him a goodbye kiss on the cheek (a bit disturbing, as they had known each other only for a day!) and flew away. That had been one of the days Dante had felt like an old geezer, despite being only twenty six. He hadn't known when women had become so… outgoing. He hoped it would change for the better.
It hadn't. He had a feeling that in Scarlet's case, it had only gotten worse. Especially when it came to taking liberties with him…
Luckily, seeing his discouragement, Scarlet didn't continue the chatter. She looked out the window and announced cheerfully:
'We're almost here.'
The same day, 14:31
Newgrange
County Meath
Ireland
'This is it', Scarlet waved her hand before them, as if she had been showing them her domain, 'the Newgrange passage tomb, one of the oldest burial molds in the world!'
'How old?', Lok suddenly got interested; it wasn't specified if he said it only to show Scarlet his willingness to learn or was really moved by the silent, austere dignity of the round rock monument, surrounded by oval blocks covered in spiral carvings and mysterious symbols.
'35000 B.C., making it older than Stonehenge and the pyramids!', Sophie answered him without hesitation, finding a good opportunity to expose her knowledge. As always.
However, she was ignored. Lok had his eyes only for Scarlet today. Dante was glad that someone else kept her occupied. He gave the rest the way; the boy followed Scarlet, who waited for him before stepping inside. Sophie raised her eyebrows in a surprised manner, then entered the tomb as well. Cherit flew in gracefully. Just like Dante hoped, Zhalia stood unmoved. Her complexion in the sun looked even more waxy, with a thin layer of sweat despite the chilly wind. She stared at her feet, not noticing the world around her.
'Zhalia?', he began gently, with great concern. After all, it was his stupid Indiana Jones instinct which had made them go on that adventure. If Zhalia paid for this with her health, it'd be all his fault.
'Yeah?!', she twitched abruptly, her eyes widened and enlarged pupils burning like two charcoals. She really looked as if she had been running a temperature.
'Is everything alright?', he carried on, getting more and more worried every moment.
'It's… nothing', she shook her head a bit, as if she had been afraid of a headache. 'I'm fine.'
As if to prove that statement, she rushed into the tomb. Dante followed her with his stare. She was all that. She'd rather drop dead than complain. That was impressive, but sometimes… annoying. Especially when she tried to count on her own power despite her obvious limitations. Someday she'd meet her doom acting like that. Dante understood being cautious towards strangers, but they'd already been through so much dangers together that there was no point in doubting each other.
He caught up with her. She didn't turn to him, ignoring his presence. Probably she was angry with him for noticing her poor state.
'You don't have to act tough if you are unwell', he assured her mildly. 'You can skip this mission and give yourself a break. After all, Scarlet has enough assistants…'
She snarled, still omitting him with her stare.
'Of course! I bet you two would like to have less audience', she remarked sarcastically.
Dante didn't quite understand that statement; was she delirious?
'We can leave Sophie, Lok and Cherit here and go back to the Lamberts'. I will accompany you, in case you feel faint', he prevailed upon her, concerned about her strange behavior. She was giving him a cold shoulder, literally; when he touched it, it surprised him with its chilliness. And smoothness. Her skin was like a cool, soft silk. For a second, he forgot what he had tried to achieve, astonished by that impression. However, he regained his usual pose quickly when he felt Zhalia tensing, freezing under his fingers; her body was no longer pleasantly cool. Rather icy.
'Stop screwing!', she shook his hand off. 'There's no going back! It's too late for such choices! I decided to do that, so I will!', she clenched her fists, piercing him with her feverishly glistening eyes.
'Zhalia…', he mumbled, surprised by her unexpected outburst.
'Ahh, just f*ck off, will you?!', she growled, annoyed by his puzzled expression, and then rushed through the rocky hall, leaving him stunned.
Apparently, she wasn't as weary as he had thought if she was able to walk so fast and curse as heavily as usually… However, his anxiety hadn't faded.
Maybe it would have been a better idea for them to stay in Venice. Those holidays had a steep prize…
The same day, 14:47
Newgrange
County Meath
Ireland
Now I know why Klaus calls me hasty.
What a stupid reckless bitch I am! No wonder Dante gets suspicious. I scolded him like a mongrel pissing onto the carpet. I should keep calm rather than explode like a volcano… it's so unlike me. I have to make up for it. Somehow…
I stay close to Dante, trying to find a good opportunity to excuse myself and wipe off his doubts. However, every time I open my mouth, any reasonable words vanish from my head. What should I tell him? Explain that I'm on edge due to the importance of this day? That I'm worried that I'll fail due to being unprepared and surprised? And that my body, mind and spirit has failed me ever since the sleepless night? And I don't really know what kind of anxiety kept me awake? All those times I was about to fulfill my task, my thoughts were collected, placid, still. Maybe I wasn't exactly happy – not knowing that my actions would cause someone to lose everything – however, there was some kind of twisted satisfaction wrapping my heart and bending my lips in a mean smirk. That was some kind of revenge. On men, on humans in general. Sweeter than a thousand of Vienna cheesecakes.
But now… I just can't find a reason to be content, neither for revenge. There's a man who hasn't done anything bad towards me. You know, I can't even detest him for lusting for my body more than anything else, as he didn't even try to touch me in a sexual way. He's always so damn respectful. Always worried about my state. Admiring my skills. Asking for my opinion. Treating me like a partner. I can laugh off his softness, but hell, it's not something I could hate him for, no matter how much I try. And there aren't any serious flaws to detest, like, for example, being a lecher, a bastard, a bird-brain. I… I kinda like him. Like I would like a naïve puppy seeking my company even despite being kicked every time.
Ahh, damn it! Even stray dogs have to be eliminated sometimes, no matter how cute they are. Otherwise they'll someday bite through somebody's throat! I won't explain anything. What for? It won't matter after I'm done with him. It'll be over before evening. I just have to put some effort into it and keep my eyes open.
'Boltflare!', a flash jerking up from Dante's hand scares the darkness away.
'So where's this Titan supposed to be hidden?', Sophie looks around the cave, staring admiringly at the walls, covered in spiral markings up to the very ceiling.
'There's a secret chamber, all we have to do is find it', Scarlet informed us.
'Shall we?', Lok asks gallantly. She gives him a smile and takes his hand. I raise my eyebrows. Well, Miss Byrne doesn't give a shit about age, as I see… I think Mrs. Lambert should be more cautious when hiring a babysitter. Statistically, some pedophiles seek such job.
'Hey!', Sophie shouts suddenly, seeing their familiar grip. 'What's that all about?!'
I peek at her, surprised. Oh-hoh, so lady Casterwill finally lost her temper. I suspected it some time ago, when I told her about Lok's adorer from Medea Island. She didn't seem pleased… By the way, it's funny that a wimp like Lok has such a big fan club. Boys these days really don't have to do much to rapture girls…
'Sophie, is something wrong?', he asks, quickly letting go of Scarlet.
'I… ah…', Sophie mumbles, embarrassed by her sudden outbursts, waving her hand dismissively. 'Sorry, I don't know what came over me. Let's go', she adds quickly to avoid further investigation. I don't need another proof. You've already blown your cover, sweetheart.
We enter another chamber, however, for me they all look alike. I was never really into art and stuff, especially ancient or medieval. I've seen children drawing more proficiently than our forebears… All this blabbering about our heritage and pride of beginnings simply doesn't work on me.
'Let's take a look over here', Dante proposes.
Then, we come downstairs. I wrinkle my nose seeing several rock coffins placed around a column supporting the ceiling. Each of them has an image carved on the lid. Damn, if the artist used a real model, the Irish ancestors were really ugly. They passed it to some of their descendants, Scarlet, for example.
'Lok, Sophie, Scarlet, check it out!', Vale points at another stairs, however, something else strikes me more than his discovery. He omitted my name. Just like that. As if I wasn't here. I can understand he forgot about Cherit, but it's something different… He was so caring few minutes earlier. And now what? Yeah. It was so easy to brush me off his mind when the adventure is calling and Scarlet is watching him… So, I guess that wiping him off existence will be as easy for me.
'That lower area… Maybe there's supposed to be a special sarcophagus down there!', Sophie wonders.
'Wait a minute! That back wall is the only place in the whole tomb without any carvings!', Lok notices, showing us a plain brick in the depths of the chamber.
'That's because it's not a part of the tomb!', Dante realizes. 'It's much older, and it's not a wall! It's a door!', he adds, shocking the rest of the group. Except of me, of course. I'll have a better surprise for everyone today.
'So the legends are true…', Scarlet says in awe. 'Even with what I know as a Seeker, it's hard to believe!'
Dante encourages them to go down with a move of his head. I follow them reluctantly. I start to get nervous. Klaus was supposed to send me his device… Why is he late?!
Then, I hear a crack of stepped pebbles. Anyone else would think that they have just fallen from the ceiling or were moved by a rodent (there is a lot of them in places like this!), but I'm being responsive for such sounds today. I stop halfway, looking back. I notice a dark-skinned hand reaching above one of the coffins and dropping something onto the decedent's image, then hiding in the shadows again. I check if no one is observing me, then sneak up there. There's something round and thick on the rock; something that glistens metallically in the dimness, like a beetle's shell. I grip it. I expected it to be cold, however, it still keeps the warmth of someone's body; it was probably kept in the pocket for some time. Such a smooth, polished surface, with two bluish circles s on the convex covering. Eight spiky protrusions, three on each side and two in front. A death com… Such a pompous name for something that resembles a bug… A cockchafer or something. Especially while lying on my hand. I grasp it strongly, checking if I'd be able to crush it just like an insect. I only scratch my hand against the metal attachments. Quite a durable fellow, but… will he really be able to get rid of a man?
Maybe it'll fail. It's not that I would want it, it's just… a possibility, right?
I hide it in my pouch; good it always looks rather bulging, no one would notice any change. Then I come back to the rest. When I was away, they made some observations.
'I can sense a great magical power behind these door!', Sophie announces.
'Dante, you were right!', Scarlet turns to Vale with an astonished face, as if he was some kind of an idol. 'This wall is a different type of the rock than the rest of the tomb!'
'Wo-hoah, three cheers for Dante!', I comment spitefully, annoyed by her flattering manner of speaking. I should probably vent my anger at her, but Dante also deserves some put-down. What does he think, that every girl would treat him like a god? Pheh. Maybe soon, when he'll be in the other world.
He gives me an attentive stare, however, there's no sign of anger in his eyes. He seems… sad, as if I let him down somehow and he didn't understand why. Yes… why? Why am I so bitter towards him? It wouldn't hurt to be a bit nicer. Especially given that our ways will part in no time…
It starts sooner than I expected. Suddenly, Dante loses his interest in me; he looks aside and gets alarmed in a second.
'Lok!', he shouts and lashes at the boy, pushing him violently. Lok trips onto the ground a second before a blue bullet shoots Dante right at his abdomen. He hits the wall, then falls onto his knees, grasping the front of his sweater and gritting his teeth in pain.
'Dante!', Scarlet cries out in fear, rushing to his aid. 'Are you alright?', she asks with anxiety, catching his arm.
'I'll live…', he utters, panting from pain; he accepts Scarlet's help and stands up, squeezing her hand. I notice that he doesn't let go of it even when he's all up. Though I didn't get shot, I feel a sudden ache in my chest.
'The Organization!', Dante's voice wakes me up. I look at the stairs and notice three Suits. Oh well, not exactly, as they are dressed in a different manner: gray trousers, dull violet shirts, long navy blue trench coats. I met them so many times in Klaus' library…
'Good guessing, punk!', the dark-haired one mocks him with a distinctive Austrian pronunciation; I remember he once tried to spank me but Klaus forced it out of his mind by 'accidentally' dropping a venomous bee onto his hand. Maybe I should remind him how he jived all around the study back then.
'Hyperstride!', Dante casts a spell; I have to stay close, so I accompany him when he jumps over the Suits. We both land behind their back. Now we're not in the dead end, forced to stand our ground in a narrow chamber, like the rest. They'll shoot them out like ducks on the clear sky.
'Scarlet!', Lok shouts when the first blow barely misses the gingy's head. 'You better stand behind me!', he leaps before her and shields her with his body. Glad to know Miss Byrne can't even take care of herself and has to be protected by the biggest klutz ever!
'And you better stand behind me!', Sophie comes to his aid, knowing that his pretty words aren't enough to save their asses. 'Honorguard!
'Caliban!', Dante calls his strongest Titan to make up for useless members of our team.
'Bonelasher!', the Suit counters him with his familiar.
Now both Titans and their masters take care of each other. The dark-haired ass adorer quickly gets kicked at his jaw by Dante. He hits the wall, but before Vale manages to restrain him, he suddenly jumps forward and reaches out his open hand, surrounded by a mysterious purple light. It spread all around Dante's head like a transparent cage made of gas; like a storm cloud, crossed by dazzling discharges. I've never seen a spell like this, it must be Klaus' newest invention, otherwise he'd teach me that…
However, I'm not sure if I'd like to know this. Vale gasps in surprise, a dazed shout escapes his open mouth. I notice his eyes widened in shock before he gets pushed to the ground, his back turned to me. He freezes in this position, unable to twitch.
'What's the matter, Vale?!', the Austrian Suit asks him ironically. 'Did Hyperstide take something out of you?!'
He doesn't respond, shaking like an electric eel. So it's not only the looks, it's really some kind of electricity… Out of blue, I recall a book lying on Klaus' desk on that memorable day of the mission assignment. I never really paid attention to it before, I didn't even know I remembered that. But now I see it clearly: 'Death Penalty Throughout History', and a hot chair on the cover… I didn't give a damn about it then, Klaus' has always had strange hobbies, but… if I knew what he was going to do with that knowledge…
I once watched 'The Crow: Salvation' in his room. He sniffed at it, not accepting my strange habit of wasting time watching bad horror movies despite my obvious disdain and sarcasm towards them. However, he stopped when Alex Corvis' execution started. He turned the sound up, sat beside me and watched the scene with surprising attention, his eyes burning with disturbing hunger. Though I'm usually stern during such scenes, the atmosphere of the dark library full of the specimens' flashing eyes, the doubled shouts and Klaus' perverse fascination made me switch the channel. Unluckily, there was 'The Green Mile'. Klaus smirked and nodded in approval when the scumbag ward didn't put the wet sponge on the big black guy's head. Even I knew that without it, the killing jolt wouldn't bring an instant death.
This spell is like the death chair execution without the sponge. But it's just an image. Just a screenshot. It'll fade away soon. It's enough to close my eyes not to see the burning skin, goggled eyes, roasting flesh…
'Zhalia, what's the matter with you?!', Sophie's voice wakes me up from the slumber. 'Do something!'
It's too late. I can't do anything. I agreed to Klaus' plan.
'Sabriel, help him!', Sophie loses patience seeing my ignorance. Her swift Titan rushes to Dante's aid; the dark-haired persecutor gets pushed away, releasing his prey. Vale catches his head, as if it was going to get separated from his body; he pants hard, blinking and trying to regain consciousness.
'Everfight', he murmurs, getting up; the golden mist gets under his skin and rejuvenates him. I watch him standing and can't say a thing. It's hard to believe the spell didn't turn his brain into a pudding, but he seems to be fine... Unlike me. When he moves into the fight to help the kids, I feel my knees shaking. I stick to the wall, catching deep breaths and nailing my fingers into the rock.
I'll vomit. I will for sure. I haven't for so many times while I was watching the Suits during work, but now… my guts twine like snakes, biting me from the inside. Why? It is just a repetition of my usual duties. Just another casual day of my life. Eliminating a guy. No problem for Zhalia Moon.
So why now…? I was prepared for that… I… I thought I was…
The same day, 15:16
Newgrange
County Meath
Ireland
'Those weren't just average Suits', Dante stated when the last attacker had fallen onto the floor unconscious and his shattered team had gathered next to the rock he was standing on. He jumped onto the ground, still feeling a faint ache in his temples. He looked at the numb man at his feet and wondered again how on earth they could have surprised them like that. 'They were smart, and armed with strong Titans. We have to be careful.'
Lok nodded seriously. Dante was glad he took this to heart, though he had noticed how well he had been standing his ground in this fight. Quite a progress he had made, especially in controlling Lindorm. After all, the violent dragon hadn't hurt any of the teammates, just smashed the Suits like a bowling ball knocking down the skittles.
'Scarlet, are you alright?', the boy asked with concern, touching Byrne's arm.
'I think so', she responded gratefully to her knight. This was justified – during the whole clash, there had been times where Scarlet had been in danger. And hadn't done anything to defend herself. It was the young Lambert who protected her. Dante had expected something more from her after a year of being a 'fully-fledged Seeker', as she had said herself. At least Boltflare, which could be used either as a lantern and a bullet. Even Lok had learnt so.
Sophie seemed as disappointed by the Irish Seeker. However, she vent her anger at someone else.
'Why don't you ask how Zhalia is?!', she growled.
'Eeeeh…? What?', Lok looked at her, dumbstruck.
'Ask how Zhalia is!', she repeated sharply. 'Oh no, wait a minute', she rolled her eyes theatrically, 'she's fine! She stood there and did nothing when the rest of us fought for our lives!', she continued more and more furiously.
Dante couldn't believe it. Of course, he wasn't really aware what had happened to Zhalia after he had gotten paralyzed by the Suit. However, he was sure that Sophie exaggerated her fault. She was always too harsh on her rival. Zhalia certainly had a good explanation. He peeked at the woman approaching them, encouraging her to justify her behavior. She caught his glare and quickly lowered her stare.
'I… I don't know', she mumbled, pulling and creasing her sleeve. 'I… suddenly felt sick', she added in a whisper, looking at him from under her lashes, as if she had been embarrassed to admit that his observations and suggestions from before the mission had been right. She seemed ashamed of her previous stubbornness.
He sighed silently, forbearingly, giving her a soothing look to show her that she had been forgiven.
'We'll talk about this later', he warned her, though; he was going to lecture her about putting her life at risk by pretending to be a Wonder Woman instead of accepting her temporary limitations. He promised he'd lock her in her room and force her to rest when they came back. However, he couldn't accompany her home right now, like he had offered her earlier, and leave the rest at the Suits' merit; neither send her home alone, knowing that there might have been more of the Organization operatives waiting outside the tomb. She'd have to keep holding on a little longer.
'For now, we have a mission', he reminded them. 'Sophie…', he said suggestively, pointing at the magical door.
'Sure thing', the girl snarled, giving Zhalia a disgusted look before she turned away.
She approached the entrance and reached her hands out, sensing the door's magic.
'Breakspell!', she said clearly and then her hands got covered in a strange bluish aura.
Scarlet gasped in surprise observing how the light spread and engulfed the brick. She had really seen a few things… There was still a long way before her. But, Dante thought just a bit patronizingly, that was no surprise if she was focused more on the already written materials for her master's thesis than discovering the world's secrets in reality.
Sophie's magic managed to break the enchantment in an explosion of energy, however, she seemed a bit tired after that.
'Whatever Seeker locked this, he was really powerful!', she said with respect. 'I can only open the door for a short time!', she underlined meaningfully.
'We'll have to hurry', Scarlet stated the obvious thing.
'Lok, Sophie, Cherit, stay here and warn us if the Suits come back', Dante ordered. 'Zhalia, you better…'
'I'm going with you', she interrupted him. 'I… I want to make up for my uselessness', she explained quickly, seeing his surprised stare. 'I'll watch your back or something.'
'I don't think…', Scarlet began, but Dante didn't let her finish the sentence. He thought that having Zhalia around, he'd be able to keep an eye on her and help her if she'd feel faint again.
'Alright', he accepted. 'Just be careful.'
Then, he entered the chamber, ignoring both Sophie's and Scarlet's discontent stares.
The same day, 15:24
Newgrange
County Meath
Ireland
So good everyone treat me like a pensioner. That way, I don't have to pretend that I'm interested in the obelisk both Dante and Scarlet examine closely – almost reaching to the ceiling, covered in strange carvings of grotesque men, awkward animals and slanting signs and lightened at the top, like a rocky torch. They work in silence, focused, concentrated, until…
'Dante', Scarlet speaks up.
'Do you see something?', Vale asks carefully, stopping his observations.
'No, it's just… ah…', she smiles shyly, but every fool would notice that it's just a façade which hides a sly flirt, 'I wanted to say… that it's been really great working with you', she raises her gleaming eyes at him.
'For me too', Dante gives the compliment back. 'You do a good work.'
Aaah. If they get any more upbeat, it's gonna give me a headache… Oh wait, I've already had a headache. Their sweetness only makes it worse. Geeez, a good work? Open your eyes, you moron. She hasn't summoned any Titan so far, more, I've never seen her using powers! And she dares to call herself a Seeker? Pheh! She won't be a match for me even if she gets involved in my plan of eliminating Dante… It'll be nice to see her fiery hair burning literally.
'What do you think?', Vale's so lost in the riddle; his hand touches one of the ornaments.
'It's ancient Gaelic', Scarlet recognizes immediately.
'So, can you read it?', he moves his eyebrows in that funny manner which always brings a smirk on my face, no matter how hard I resist it. But it doesn't work now. Because he's not making that face to me. Mr. Vale the Great was offended by some mere operative yelling at him back then, huh. As you want, you big-headed moron. A war, then.
I reach for the device in my pouch, slide my fingers across its metallic shell, then grasp it and draw out, hiding it in my hand. It'll settle the matter.
'It'd be a snap for me!', Scarlet responds proudly, then takes a closer look at the runes. 'Here lies the weapon of a great dog warrior…', she reads carefully, sliding her finger across the runes.
'According to the history, the Irish hero Cuchulainn was supposed to be named after a dog…', Dante recalls.
'And it's a local legend that he fought his last battle where Newgrange stands, right here!', Byrne complements his observation.
'Interesting…', he admits.
Dante's completely absorbed in his puzzle. Now's the perfect time…
But why so fast? Why… why am I reluctant to end this?
I said many times that I'd rip his head off, slash it open, tear him into pieces. It was just a threat. Just a saying. However, I've just realized that no matter how many times I swore that, I have never imagined it. I have never thought of eliminating him for real. It was more like a… a scene from a cartoon – you know, those times when characters get splashed like pancakes and then get up with a smile, or hang above the abyss for some time and fall into it right after realizing it. No blood. No suffering. No pain. And, more important, no killers. Their fate always remains unknown. They don't matter. They are just necessary to move the plot and fulfill their duty. No one cares what happens to them after they do so. The movie ends with the main heroes' victory, the bad guys just fading away throughout the story.
If I knew what happens to the villains...
What would it change? Nothing. I'll write my own story with the evil sorceress living happily ever after.
I raise the death com and take aim at Dante's back right when he's raising his hand and pointing at the human image on the obelisk.
'See how Cuchulainn's holding up the spear?', he asks Scarlet. 'Looks familiar?'
'A Titan!', she realizes, opening her eyes wide, then flings her arms around Dante's bicep. 'That's how a Seeker invokes one!'
I grit my teeth seeing her taking liberties with Dante. He doesn't protest. I've never seen him letting anyone be so familiar with him. He seemed like a reserved type of guy. At least towards me… He didn't try to do anything crossing a border between a slight flirt and a serious interest, even during our so-called date. But… now he enjoys having Scarlet so close. Her warmth, her admiration, her spontaneous reactions… So, it's just me who detests him. Just me whom he doesn't like to touch longer that it's necessary. As if he knew. As if he looked beneath my pretty cover and sensed an inner deformity. It's normal he doesn't want to be afraid of this hidden, mysterious defect. Or maybe he didn't even have to go that deep? I push him away with my every word. Just today… I treated him like a cunt. No wonder he prefers to be a hero for Scarlet than a scapegoat for me…
I should end this now. And quick. 'Cause I want to finish my career saying that no man have never moved me. And if I continue that kind of wondering, it'll be a lie.
No. It is a lie already.
'Despite what Sophie says, I know that at the end of the day, I can trust you.'
No one's ever said that to me before. I still remember the warmth which wrapped around my heart at his unexpected confession. I should have laughed it off given that I have been tricking him ever since, but… I didn't. I just sat there dumbstruck and fought with my thoughts.
'That must be it!'
And… there were more times like this. He convinced me to eat something sweet. He was the first person complimenting me in such a nice way. He carried me to my room after the fight over King Basilisk. He didn't take advantage on me, though I was sitting on a bed, barely knowing what was going on with me. He… he protected me many times, even if it's so hard to admit it, even if I saved his ass as often.
'The spear of Cuchulainn… What was it called?'
'Gybolg!'
'Holotome, give me the info on a Titan named Gybolg.'
While they're examining the Titan, I struggle with my thoughts. Yeah, right. I do not owe Dante anything. Klaus did way more for me. He gave me a new life. I should be loyal towards him. And… And… there's no option I'd disobey the Professor. He's erratic. One bad move and goodbye, Zhalia. It's way more reasonable to be on the Professor's side than against him. It'll only get better after I bring him Dante Vale. Professor will reward me and grant my every wish. There won't be a thing unavailable for me…
'That's out boy. Put your hand on the obelisk and call out: Gybolg.'
'OK.'
'I think we're about to make a major discovery…'
…however, before I achieve this, I'd have to watch how the death com deals with Dante. I look at the armored jaws, able to pierce men's skin with no problem. I suddenly feel sick, the bile is coming up my throat and wants to escape in no time, my stomach gets over-stimulated by the visions created by my raging mind. The sanguinary insect biting through Dante's duster and sweater, then ripping his flesh and going deeper, tearing his muscles apart, shattering his guts, turning his bowels into a pulp, drain him of all his power, strength… and dignity. Just a scrap of bloody meat, and not a slightest spark in his golden eyes, so full of emotions until then, glistening with life… no chance of hearing my name sounding so melodiously again… no smiles warming up the pit of my stomach… no, no, no…
'NO!', I choke out, my arm falls.
Dante and Scarlet turn around, shocked by my scream. I tremble, however, I have as much consciousness as to hide the death com behind my leg. I wouldn't know what to tell them if they asked what I need it for. They look at me questioningly, not understanding my reaction. Luckily, I don't have to explain anything.
'Dante, help!', our attention gets caught by Sophie's piercing yell. Vale doesn't hesitate – he leaves the obelisk and runs up the stairs, passing me by. Scarlet follows him quickly, throwing me a strange stare before she vanishes in the dark. No time to think what I've just done - I catch up with them halfway. We quickly find Sophie – she lies with her butt on the rocky floor, with her hand hanging in the air towards the closed slab.
'What's going on?!', Dante asks, helping her stand.
'Lok pushed me through', she explains nervously, 'he's trying to protect me! We have to help him!', she insists, shivering. Lok defending the whole team? It can't end up well…
'Can you break the seal again?!', Scarlet asks, as tense as the Casterwill.
'I hope so!', Sophie utters, then flashes the first blow at the brick. It splashes against it and disappears without effects.
'The seal is stronger from this side!', Dante remarks with shock, then draws out an amulet. 'Lend us strength, Metagolem!'
The clay giant occupies the rest of the space left in the narrow hall. We girls get squeezed to the walls, luckily, the colossus quickly approaches the slab, letting us breathe freely.
'Come on, big guy', Dante encourages him, casting Dragonfist on his hands. 'Let's do it together.'
They both brace their feet against the ground and start to pull the magical door. However, it barely moves.
'Wait a moment!', Scarlet says suddenly. We peek at her, expecting some spectacular idea of opening the door. 'Since we won't be able to get back, let's at least grab the Titan!'
'Go', Dante agrees through his gritted teeth, leaning on the rock with his whole body. 'Just make it quick.'
Scarlet comes back to the obelisk chamber. We hear her calling Gybolg; meanwhile Dante and Metagolem manage to create a small gap between the wall and the edge of the slab.
'Almost got it', he drawls, pulling the rock more easily than before; the hole enlarges every minute… revealing the dark-haired Suit standing behind it.
'Talk about your sitting ducks', he makes a wry joke and raises a hand with Augerfrost in it.
'DANTE, GET DOWN!', Sophie yells, aware of the danger.
'I can't let go of the door now…', he protests, sweat coming down his temple.
'It's over!', the Suit beams, sliding his finger through his neck in a very suggesting way: like a knife. I clench my fists, digging my nails into my flesh… and a metallic cover of the fake bug.
'Oh no!', Sophie is about to rush to Dante's aid, but…
'Hold it!', I stop her when a crazy idea crosses my mind. After all, I still have an ace up my sleeve… 'I hope this works on objects… Death com!', before I change my mind, I throw the device forward.
The round mechanism sticks to the wall above Dante's elbow. It digs into the rock and suddenly, the brick lightens in an unearthly flash. The charm breaks in a loud poop, the slab goes aside so quickly that Dante loses balance and falls onto his knees, however, he lands gracefully like a hunting panther. When he raises his head, his stare is sharp, clear and confident like always.
'You've had your fun', he throws coldly. 'Now for the rough stuff…', he growls, then adds in a shout: 'Attack!'
His voice shoots a shiver through me. There's no way I'd resist that call.
'Fight for your lady, Kilthane!', I summon the dark knight.
'Icarus, Feyone, appear!', Sophie cries out, also encouraged by our leader's command.
'Gybolg, attack!', Scarlet joins us, coming back from the chamber with something in her raised hand; an amulet! A lot of twines emerge from the ground, wrapped in streams of energy, tying with each other, forming a tall silhouette with a mane made of leaves. It looks like Treebeard from Tolkien's books, except of the cleaver's sword it carries! I notice that Dante exchanges stares with Scarlet, as if they were happy that their assumptions were true. I feel a tiny itch in my chest. Pheh, one Titan and no powers… I'll show her some real skills.
I've got an opportunity: after a signal made by Lok (pushing two Suits and knocking them down), we rush at the attackers arm in arm. I'm going to find the spanker. I'm also very interested in his butt. More precisely, in kicking it.
The same day, 16:02
Newgrange
County Meath
Ireland
'Well, I think we should stop disturbing the dead men's peace', Dante judges, looking at the beaten Suits covering the floor.
I walk between them, a bit uneasy. After all, I am at their side… but I enjoyed beating them into a pulp. I really did. Imagine me chasing after the spanker like a wild cougar! The funniest part was him hanging on Kilthane's sword and me treating him like a boxing bag. It helps to let off some steam. Especially after such a crazy day. And, you know, no one held back during the fight. Even Mrs. Lambert!
Imagine my surprise when I saw her here, among the Suits, smacking their mugs with such a power as if they were dirty spots on her favorite table cloths or clumps in her spectacular pie. No wonder the Lamberts' house is so clean and well-organized. No one dares to disobey the Badass Mommy! Who would've thought she's such a tigress seeing her hug Lok after the clash…
It arises a strange throb in my chest again. I leave them alone, I don't really like family scenes. They are always so soppy, cliché and… so touching… My teeth would get rotten due to the sweetness, and, you know, I'd rather not endanger them. Especially when the white-fanged Scarlet is nearby.
I come up the stairs. Dante is ahead of me, his dusty cloak flows before me. It got a bit shabby, but who cares? It has never looked glamorous for me, and Dante doesn't seem to mind, as we're all looking alike, covered in sand, scratches and bruises. Suddenly, he stops; I almost bump into his wide back.
'Zhalia?', he turns to me, his eyes examine me attentively. I freeze. What's going on? I thought I made up for my previous blunders. You know, that stupid shout, my biting remarks and strange behavior. I was so close to get away unquestioned…
Unexpectedly, Dante gives me a gentle smile which shocks me so much that I repeat the gesture without even thinking about it, unlike the other times when I'd rather wash it off his face with a put-down.
'Good job', he praises me softly, his eyes like two pots of mead, so sweet, mild and deep. 'I knew I could trust you.'
I look at his turning back, stunned, paralyzed, unable to move, breathless, tongue-tied… though I'd like to say something to stop him, to keep him here just for a moment longer, just to let me take a closer look and see if his stare wasn't just a phantasm, that the pure likeness I noticed in the way he bent his lips and raised his eyebrows wasn't just my wild imagination…
He hasn't smiled like that even to Scarlet. All the crazy shit I did today… It was worth just those two seconds when I thought that… that someone was happy to have me by his side. What a twist of fate that if I used the death com appropriately, I'd never be able to receive such a gift…
Once in a while, it's good to turn into a fruity jughead.
The same day, 21:43
The Lamberts' house
County Kerry
Ireland
'I can't believe it!', Lok exclaimed, waiting for his chocolate to cool a bit. 'You were a Seeker all along!', he addressed his mother with disbelief.
'Once a Foundation girl, always a Foundation girl', his mother responded proudly.
'If I had my way, you do a lot more than these… sandwich slash rescue missions', he said jokingly, yet with unquestioned affection shown in his emphatic eyes. 'You're my hero!', he stated in awe, greatly pleasing his touched mother. She just looked aside, embarrassed, but Dante noticed a smile playing on the corners of her lips and tears appearing on her lower lashes. He also smiled, though without tears. Women. So full of incomprehensible contradictions…
'Speaking of heroes, how about Scarlet?', Lok carried on.
'We wouldn't have found the Titan without her!', Sophie supported him much to everyone's surprise. However, there wasn't any irony in her voice. Dante didn't know what had happened that the Casterwill, rather unfriendly for the Irish Seeker at the beginning, had changed her mind. Another proof of women's changeability… As well as Scarlet's great enter in the tomb. Dante didn't expect such a turn of the tables from a girl who lacked any notable powers and achievements.
'You're a real asset, Scarlet', he complimented her to make up from his previous unfair judgment.
'Thanks, Dante, that means a lot', she responded, giving him a faint smile. Instead of blossoming with joy after the success of their research, she stayed rather silent and thoughtful. Her face only fell when Lok asked suddenly, looking around:
'Hey, where's Zhalia?'
Dante pricked his ears. He'd also like to know that. He hoped for a short talk with her before going to bed. There were few things he wanted to tell her and do. Like, scolding her for accepting a mission despite feeling unwell. Taking care that she lied wrapped in a warm duvet, drank some hot tea and took medicines. Warning her that he was going to strap her to the bed if she didn't stay there willingly and tried to get up before being completely cured. Offering that he'd bring her a book or his holotome to let her scare away boredom. Proposing to stay by her side in case she needed something. And, if she accepted, thanking her. For everything… especially for not letting him down.
'She's in her room', Mrs. Lambert responded. 'She said she wanted to be left alone.'
Dante sighed noiselessly. Of course. She must've been tired after the whole day of struggling with her illness and the whole Newgrange mess. He shouldn't have disturbed her. There would be a lot time to talk after she got better. He just hoped it'd happen before their break was over. He wanted to take her for a walk through the beautiful meadows of Ireland.
He felt his mouth bending in a smile; to hide it, he took a sip of his chocolate. However, he highly doubted it was the sweet liquid's merit that his heart warmed like that.
The same day, 21:44
The Lamberts' house
County Kerry
Ireland
What should I do now?
Happy ending is happy ending, but there is always something after that, right? It's easier to deal with all the complicated situations by cutting in the least complex moment, huh. The rest isn't as simple as it appears.
I still have to report to Klaus and tell him that… well, that I failed. It won't even be a lie, but… I can't also let myself be completely sincere with him. It's best not to say much. Just a laconic summary. Yeah, that should be enough.
I have to pay the piper if I was as stupid as to oppose him… No, stop. I wasn't. I did what I should have done earlier. I should protest against snooping in my task. After all, it was MY mission. It was MY duty to take care of Dante, and I will be the one to decide how to do that, damn it! No sudden plot twists. No nonsensical orders. No interrupting. It is supposed to be my success and I'm the only one who can crown my work the way I like. I don't want the whole Organization to tell the tales about me passing the buck for Vale's elimination on a bug! I'd have to be ashamed my whole life. It must be elegant, sophisticated and elaborate. And look less awful than a bloodthirsty dung beetle fasting on human flesh. It won't change his fate. But at least it will change mine. I won't have to crawl into a hole every time someone makes fun of the way I dealt with things.
I sigh with relief. Yeah. Now I'm the one dictating the conditions. Not a robot programmed to do her job. Not a tool. Rather a professional spy who won't let anyone mess her perfect plan.
With my spirit raised by that vision, I quickly reach for the cell and dial Klaus. I take deep breaths with every signal ringing in the receiver.
'Zhalia, my dear, I hope you have good news for me', Klaus speaks finally, barely hiding his impatience and excitement.
Why it seemed so easy before I heard him? I don't know what to say. But I have to. I must. Damn it, now or never! Are you a born cheater or not, Zhalia?!
'I'm sorry Klaus, I don't', I respond firmly, hoping I sound disappointed enough.
'What do you mean?', his voice changes in a flash, now sounds like barking.
'I couldn't sabotage the mission', I continue, trying to say as much as possible before my words fail me. 'I… I didn't get the chance.'
I pray he took the moment of hesitation for a sign of shame.
'You didn't get the chance?...', he repeats, drawling the syllables.
Damn, he didn't. That stupid stutter! If not that, I'd manage to carry the talk smoothly. Now I swallow hardly, my boldness disappearing in a blink of an eye, drained from me by Klaus' suspicious way of speaking. He has a power over me even from such a distance… No, I can't let him interrogate me. The longer the talk drags, the more things won't match after his Suits get back to Vienna and tell him about our encounter. I bet the dark-haired spanker won't go easy on me. Klaus doesn't like him after his carrying-on, but some of his words may strike some suspicions in his mind.
'I'm sorry, it just didn't work out…', I add quickly, and I don't even have to play sorry, a part of me regrets the mistake I've made due to the fear of consequences, but there's no backing down. 'I… I can't talk right now', I come up with the most naive excuse ever, but I feel that if I continue the talk, I'll sing everything to him, just to let this burthen off my heart. However, I can't. Klaus won't praise my civil courage and forgive everything I've done just because I decided to be honest with him.
I disconnect before he protests and hide the cell back in the suitcase, as if it could separate me from the problems aroused by my rash decision. I put both hands beside my head and try to push away my worries about what happens when Klaus consults with his minions and finds the differences in our stories. Luckily he can't do much from Vienna, and before he chooses a right punishment, I'll placate him with some spectacular discovery. Yeah, I will. For sure. I will have a whole week at the Lamberts' to take care of it.
Despite my bold affirmations, I twitch when the cell rings again. I break a cold sweat. It's just a message… Should I open it? Or maybe leave it for tomorrow and get some peaceful sleep? No, it won't be peaceful if I'll wonder who texted me and what he wrote. It's better to have it done.
I take the phone and check the sender. Dante. I raise my eyebrows, surprised, however, a balloon of anxiety punctures and vanishes immediately. I can open the text calmly.
I didn't want to bang at your door in case you were sleeping, but I wanted to say: Goodnight, Zhalia. Have pleasant dreams.
P.S. You were amazing today. It's an honor even to be yelled at by someone like you...'
Why such a nice message is arising even more fears in me? Why can't I just be happy that a nice guy compliments me? Why can't I laugh it off, shrug and forget about it? Maybe 'cause I don't really feel amazing. Despite all I am trying to make myself believe, I'm not brave, tough and strong. I'm puzzled. Especially by the unknown reason of my disobedience towards Klaus. I seek it, but I can't find it. It can't be only due to the way Dante says my name. Nor the gleam of his unusual irises. Neither the warmth of his smile and the kind words he wrote. They are pleasant, but disturbing as well. They even cause a strange tingle in my chest. 'Cause I know that despite how pretty it looks on the outside, I don't deserve them. He doesn't know the whole story. He sees only the bright side. They are always easier to chew than those looking and tasting like ashes. Would he be so willing to bestow me with his favors if he knew the whole truth?
I sigh and bundle in my bedding, clenching my fists and pressing them to my cheek. I don't want to think about anything. I just want to zone out. However, when I close my eyes, the space under my lids isn't black. It's honey gold.