《Mystic Ones》


 Chapter 1 - Inception

    A barren desert. Nothing but long-dead trees and remnants of buildings poking out of the sand, entirely devoid of life. The sky and the horizon, a sunless, sickly, depressing grey. Not a single sound is heard, not even the sound of wind or even the soft buzzing of a desert-dwelling insect.


    Standing in view, in stark contrast, or perhaps entirely appropriate, a shadowy bipedal figure with two piercing green eyes, hands dripping with a green liquid, staring ahead. Its green eyes, they reflect no soul, not from such a distance, if it even has a soul. Every night, it stands there, and every night, without fail, it gradually gets closer.


    A scene all too familiar for a 27-year old cat, her fur of cream and white colours, who jolts awake in bed. Like she does every morning, she inspects the back of her hands, each having a dark green, spiralling line.


    ¡°I swear these have grown again¡­¡± She makes a remark to herself.


    She has been living with these nightmares ever since these strange markings appeared on her hands, only a year ago when they were but green dots. Every night, the same, every night, creeping terror.


    She has visited doctors whenever she noticed major changes in the size of the markings, but they all told her the same: it¡¯s perfectly normal. That not only sounded utterly ridiculous, but it also hardly eased her mind. Such a thing cannot be normal, she knew that back then and she knows that now.


    Her apartment¡¯s walls are grey, a colour that she doesn¡¯t like, but can¡¯t be bothered to repaint just yet. In her room, there is an oak wood bed, a closet, and a nightstand made of the same material, with a lamp and an alarm clock on the latter. Next to the bed, pushed up against the wall, a simple, wooden table with medicine and basic chemistry equipment on it. At the very edge of the table there is a name plate reading ¡°Roxanne Solomon¡±. The walls are decorated with posters, some having French writing, to help with the dull feeling the colour gives off.


    She takes a glance at the clock, which reads 7:32 in bold crimson.


    ¡°Better not be late.¡± She gets out of bed and gets dressed, putting on a red dress with a flower pattern, sandals and a light red scarf. She takes a pair of red gloves, golden bracelets, and earrings from the nightstand¡¯s drawer and puts them on as well. She¡¯s had those gloves ever since the markings appeared on her hands, as she doesn¡¯t like people seeing them. It may not be the best way to hide them, but people have yet to question why a feline would wear gloves all the time.


    Solomon leaves the apartment block and heads to her workplace. It''s only been a few months since she moved from France to Britain. She used to be an apothecary, which she admittedly didn¡¯t hate as it justified her degree in chemistry, but the payment simply didn¡¯t suffice.


    While still working, she was browsing jobs, and eventually came across one in Britain: ¡°Bird¡¯s Eye Inc. Investigator.¡± She heard that investigators get paid well, but the advertised wage was absurdly high. Most applicants were rejected, so she heard, she doubted it was anything other than some sort of a scam, but she was just too curious not to try.


    All they asked was for a resume along with a picture of the applicant. For something so simple, she didn¡¯t expect much.


    Thus, when her application was accepted, she thought it was too good to be true. That amount of money¡­ It was worth moving to Britain if the job ended up being real.


    She thought there had to be a catch, even such a job shouldn¡¯t pay this much, but as far as she could tell, there was no catch.


    She¡¯s been working for three months, nothing out of the ordinary has happened. No shady characters, no business with dubious individuals or substances, it all seemed too good to be paid so much for investigation.


    In fact, the job can hardly be considered investigation, it¡¯s usually people calling in to solve petty conflicts and look into similarly petty subjects. To Solomon, it effectively just feels like a non-emergy police line. They don¡¯t deal with serious cases because it is ¡°not their business¡±, as her boss said. She admittedly found it suspicious back when she started, but then again, for that much money¡­ She wasn¡¯t asking questions.


    Today, she¡¯s still not particularly fond of the grey streets of Lanolow, but she has to go through them to get to her workplace outside of town. The town itself isn¡¯t what she would describe as big, not compared to the city she used to live in.


    About half a kilometre away from town with only two buildings nearby, an old police station stands, a sign above the door reading ¡°Bird¡¯s Eye Inc.¡± She can remember the first time she came here, it was hard to believe that she¡¯d be starting a new life at a place like this. A paint job is due for the outside walls, and some wallpapers would make her feel a little more comfortable on the inside. Everything about the place only made her more suspicious at first, but after the months working there, she can¡¯t complain too much.


    The door leads into a reception where no one is sitting ever, to the right are two poorly disguised holding cells, to the left is the main hall where most meetings are held. Like she does every time, she takes a left turn.


    Walking in, there is a round table no more than two metres in diameter with five seats around it. Three of them are taken by her colleagues already, waiting for the boss, and her, to arrive.


    And the people she works with¡­ She sure finds them to be a bunch.


    She sits down at one of the unoccupied spots. To her left is Lisa, a local dark grey wolf looking to be in her thirties. Solomon hasn¡¯t learned the wolf¡¯s last name in the months working. She wears a dark blue trench coat, a pair of black and brown chequered trousers, and a black fedora, which has a blue band matching the colour of her coat. She also has a wooden cane, which has a handle that resembles a finger and claw, and a smoking pipe on her person at all times.


    During her time working there so far, Solomon has always seen her in those exact same clothes every single day, although she doesn¡¯t mention it out loud. She would describe Lisa as rather eccentric, but someone she can call a friend and rely on. Lisa¡¯s been working there the longest, about five years, as she described. Solomon previously conversed with her about how this is her first job, how much it fits her, and how much she would love it if they could work on actual cases. That only made the cat more suspicious at first, going from unemployed to making this much money? That seemed impossible.


    To Lisa¡¯s left is Yaroslav Sokolov, a Russian bear with brown fur. He is wearing a brown coat with a green shirt and black trousers, looks to be older than Lisa. Solomon has come to know him as a friendly and jovial man, always telling stories from his old life when he was a demolitionist. One thing Solomon can¡¯t help but notice every time is how big his hands are. She doesn¡¯t see bears all that often though, so it may just be her.


    In stark contrast to him, on his left is Sol Durazo, a Spanish canine with floppy ears. Solomon learned that the exact kind is called ¡°spinone italiano¡±. His fur is brown with white patterns, he looks to be in his fifties, but is in overall good physical condition. The first time she saw him, she thought he was a priest, wearing all black clothes and a cross necklace. Her assumption proved to be somewhat correct, as he used to be a member of the clergy. Because of that, his colleagues nicknamed him ¡°Father¡±. He doesn¡¯t talk much and usually keeps to himself, but will respond earnestly when asked. As far as Solomon can tell anyway.


    Upon first meeting, her colleagues only confused Solomon more, regarding the job. The four of them couldn¡¯t be more different, how come they were the ones who were accepted for this position? Eventually she decided that it was best not to think about it and just accept the wage she was offered.


    Solomon¡¯s colleagues greet her as she sits down next to Lisa. She greets them back, trying not to look too tired.


    The four converse about some rather mundane topics, like the weather, for a few minutes until the man himself arrives, their boss, a German eagle named Johannes Adelar. He looks to be around the same age as Yaroslav and has a brown plumage. He is dressed elegantly, wearing a suit and a red tie. He nonchalantly sits down at the table, taking the fifth and final seat.


    ¡°Everyone, I have some great news to tell.¡± He says, his voice akin to authority. ¡°Our next few tasks may just be our break into serious business! I know that some of you¡­¡± He glances at Lisa. ¡°...are very eager to be involved in some real cases.¡±


    The excitement on Lisa¡¯s face couldn¡¯t be more visible. Even Solomon herself thinks that something more than a neighbours¡¯ dispute is due for the so-called investigators.


    ¡°The client, who would like to remain anonymous, gave us these two people to monitor, as well as whoever might be with them.¡± The eagle puts a binder on the table, taking out two sheets of paper. ¡°Churchyard and restaurant. The details are in the papers.¡± He adds.


    Lisa looks decidedly less excited upon hearing those news. Yaroslav immediately takes the churchyard paper and skims through it.


    ¡°Father, you¡¯ll feel right at home!¡± He exclaims with a heavy accent. Durazo reads the paper thoroughly and smiles.


    ¡°Consider it accepted.¡± His voice is deep, but friendly, Solomon finds it comforting in a way.


    That leaves Solomon and Lisa to go to the restaurant, the latter of whom seems increasingly disinterested.


    ¡°This is just the first task from this client.¡± Says Adelar. ¡°I was promised that we¡¯d be working together depending on your performance here.¡±


    Solomon takes the other paper. It reads: ¡°Location: Olympus Restaurant, Armenshire. Time: 11:00. Target: great dane, always seen with two others around. Kinds of entourage vary greatly. Target is seen at the location every Friday. Task: eavesdrop. Listen to as much as possible. Utmost discretion advised. If and when the target leaves, do not follow.¡±


    Solomon nods, along with Lisa.


    ¡°Excellent.¡± Adelar smiles proudly. ¡°Off you go then. You know what to do. Once you¡¯re done, let me know and I¡¯ll update you with any calls we get. Make a full report when you¡¯re back in the evening.¡±


    With that, he leaves the room, the others following close.


    The two groups each get into a car and drive off.


    ¡°So, nothing exciting once again. Outstandin¡¯.¡± Lisa starts talking to Solomon in her somewhat raspy voice, but the cat zones out during it, wondering who this new client could be.


    ¡°Maybe I should ask Adelar¡­ Maybe I should have asked him for more details¡­ Then again, if there were more details, they would have been written on that piece of paper, surely.¡±


    The author''s tale has been misappropriated; report any instances of this story on Amazon.


    The name of that restaurant intrigues her. Olympus? She secretly has some high expectations of a place with such a name.


    ¡°...and that''s exactly the kind of people who I call wankers.¡± Says Lisa, causing Solomon to snap out of it. ¡°Give ¡®em the middle finger when ya can.¡±


    A short trip later, Solomon can see that they will arrive at the location very soon, she can already see the place from a distance. A massive sign reads ¡°Olympus'''' on a building that Solomon guesses has around four floors.


    ¡°Well ain¡¯t that tacky. Can¡¯t miss that one, eh?¡± Lisa remarks as she parks close by. Solomon immediately jumps out of the car.


    ¡°Wait up, will ya?¡± Lisa yells after her, but the feline is already at the entrance.


    The inside of the restaurant is decorated with various Greek motifs and items, just enough windows to tell the weather and time of day outside. There are many tables, all but two are already taken, right next to each other. Solomon tries to walk to one of them, but is stopped by a leopard waitress, the name card on her uniform reading ¡°Achlys¡±.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry madam, but this restaurant is reservations only.¡± The waitress explains. Solomon opens her mouth to speak, but nothing comes out as she tries to think of an excuse.


    Just then, Lisa makes her way inside and mutters to herself as she enters, looking less than pleased. The waitress glances at Lisa, then back at Solomon.


    ¡°Are you with her?¡± She asks with a curious look.


    ¡°Well, yes. I just thought we could-¡± Solomon tries to make up a lie that could possibly get them in.


    ¡°I might be able to get you a table then.¡± The waitress smirks and cuts her off. ¡°Go ahead, madam.¡±


    Solomon feels confused, but she won¡¯t stop to question why that waitress did what she just did.


    ¡°Why''d you leave me outside like that?¡± Lisa frowns, slightly annoyed. Solomon tells the wolf that she just got them a table, which seems to lift her mood.


    The two each take a seat at one of the empty tables. Solomon looks at the time, two minutes until 11:00. ¡°We just barely made it in time.¡±


    Like clockwork, a great dane walks through the door, escorted by a thorny lizard and a zebra. All three are wearing rather fancy suits. Solomon and Lisa try to make themselves look busy as the targets sit down at the other empty table. Solomon sits further away from them, she finds the staff and the guests talking behind her quite distracting. She hears the names ¡°Zeus¡± and ¡°Hades¡± uttered quite a few times.


    Lisa is facing away from their table opposite to Solomon, discreetly perking her ears.


    The targets talk about the condition of certain roads and houses on the way to Armenshire and how it makes the city look worse, sounding irritated. That topic is followed by other, similarly less exciting conversations. Solomon is starting to think that the client just wants the infrastructure to be better, which it admittedly could be.


    ¡°So you found someone who can pull that off, eh?¡± The great dane asks the lizard, noticeably quieter. Lisa listens closely, her attention entirely on the three as far as Solomon can tell.


    ¡°Yes. Away from prying eyes. It will be hard to-¡± Says the lizard.


    ¡°Excuse me?¡± A loud voice cuts off the lizard. ¡°This is supposed to be our table!¡± An aggravated-looking weasel is looking at Solomon and Lisa, standing next to her is who must be her husband, another weasel who seems to just feel bad for the two.


    The targets stop talking and look at the scene unfolding.


    ¡°You better have a really good explanation for this.¡± Says the weasel, bending down to their table, eyebrows furrowed. Solomon gulps, her mind racing to come up with an excuse once again, but it all suddenly goes blank when she sees the leopard waitress rush over to the table.


    ¡°Oh, madam, you must be mistaken!¡± Says the waitress as the weasel turns to look at her.


    ¡°No, I know for a fact that this was the-¡± She begins to say.


    ¡°I¡¯m certain that this was the table you reserved!¡± The leopard takes them to another table that just became unoccupied.


    A short argument can be heard, but the weasel relents and accepts the spot.


    Solomon exhales deeply. ¡°That was close¡­ But why is that leopard helping us?¡±


    ¡°People nowadays¡­ Can¡¯t even remember which table they reserved.¡± The zebra scoffs. ¡°As I was saying¡­¡± The lizard continues. ¡°It will be hard to track the shipment after it is put to sea, but that¡¯s what boss says. Who am I to question that?¡± He looks at the zebra, who slightly shakes his head.


    ¡°I think we should just take the ledger-¡± Says the zebra, causing the dane to whack him on the back of his head.


    ¡°We were told explicitly not to say that.¡± The dane reprimands him, followed by an apology from the zebra.


    ¡°All you need to know:¡± Says the dane. ¡°Port of Moore, in exactly two weeks.¡±


    Lisa takes notes: shipment, ledger, Port of Moore, in two weeks. The leopard walks over to the table where the targets are seated and takes their order. She then does the same for Solomon and Lisa and waves, specifically at the latter, when she walks away.


    ¡°Just why do you like to eat here?¡± The lizard questions. ¡°Boss pays us well, but these prices are outrageous!¡±


    That makes Lisa take a good look at the menu. She holds back a gasp when she sees the price of the simplest of meals.


    ¡°I just love Greek food.¡± Says the dane. ¡°And like you said, boss pays us well. Wouldn¡¯t give this job up for anything. Especially not because of people who can¡¯t be cautious.¡± He shoots a look of disappointment towards the zebra.


    A short while later, another waiter, a gazelle, brings three plates to their table. His name card reads ¡°Hermes¡±. Right after, the leopard brings the ladies¡¯ orders.


    ¡°Do enjoy your meals.¡± She smiles and leaves them to their business.


    ¡°Something¡¯s very off about her. Can¡¯t quite put a finger on it though¡­¡±


    The targets finish their meals quickly, the lizard remarks that it really wasn¡¯t that worth it this time either, and they leave without a word after paying one of the waiters.


    ¡°I¡¯d say we got what we came here for.¡± Says Lisa. Solomon is pleased to hear that, she can only imagine how pleased Adelar will be. The two finish up and stand up to leave, the leopard wishing them well. Lisa sighs as they exit the restaurant.


    ¡°So, what was that about?¡± Solomon inquires. ¡°Why did Achlys help us so much?¡±


    ¡°Her name¡¯s Thalia.¡± Lisa rolls her eyes. ¡°That name is just a quirk of the place, you didn¡¯t really think her boss is called Zeus, yeah?¡± She asks with a raised eyebrow. ¡°Anyway, she¡¯s an old friend. That¡¯s all.¡±


    Lisa doesn¡¯t seem to be in the mood to talk about it further. Solomon doesn¡¯t push the subject.


    When Solomon opens the door, however, she feels a strange sensation, something she would only describe as a¡­ Compulsion to look around. She feels like she¡¯s being watched, but she doesn¡¯t see anything or anyone suspicious as she turns her head.


    ¡°Let''s get going, mate.¡± Says Lisa, already in the car, having waited a good few seconds for Solomon already. The cat dismisses the feeling and gets in the car as well.


    ¡°At least we got some pretty sweet info.¡± Lisa states with considerably more energy. ¡°Adelar will be happy, I bet.¡± She starts the car and the two drive back to the station.


    Yaroslav and Durazo are at a churchyard. A funeral has recently taken place, one particularly devastated mourner is talking to the priest who held the ceremony.


    ¡°Always a grim sight.¡± Durazo quietly says to the bear. ¡°Never was something I liked in the trade.¡±


    ¡°What did you like then?¡± Yaroslav asks.


    ¡°The look in the people¡¯s eyes.¡± The canine says, solemnly. ¡°The hope, the promise that their faith will be rewarded. It was heartwarming¡­ But some people who claimed to be like me weren¡¯t interested in that.¡± Durazo frowns, in his eyes, uncharacteristic anger. ¡°Reverend Antonio¡­ To exploit the faithful at their most vulnerable¡­ I could not put up with that anymore.¡± He scoffs. ¡°Look where that got me.¡± He shakes his head at the thought. ¡°I tell myself that it¡¯s better. Financially, maybe, but these jobs don¡¯t make me feel like I¡¯m helping people. Not in the way I¡¯d like to.¡±


    Yaroslav puts a hand on the ex-priest¡¯s shoulder.


    ¡°That¡¯s behind you now.¡± He takes a reassuring glance at Durazo. ¡°We¡¯re helping, currently like this, but we¡¯re helping.¡±


    Durazo nods, expression unchanged, opinion on the matter likely similar.


    After the funeral¡¯s final steps are completed and the crowd leaves, Yaroslav spots a rat and another bear approaching. They go behind the church, Durazo slowly makes his way closer to their direction. At the building, he listens intently, although he can¡¯t quite make out everything they say.


    He hears the words ¡°port¡±, ¡°book¡±, ¡°two weeks¡± and ¡°night¡± mentioned more than once. He leans against the wall as he hears them start walking back. The two targets stop to look at the investigators.


    ¡°Taking a break, eh, father?¡± The rat asks, seemingly not suspecting anything.


    ¡°We all need a break sometimes.¡± Durazo forces a convincing smile. ¡°Don¡¯t we?¡±


    The targets chuckle and start walking out of the churchyard.


    ¡°Praise be.¡± The rat says jovially.


    Durazo sighs, not a sigh of relief, but one of slight disappointment, watching the two disappear into the distance.


    ¡°Time to leave.¡±


    Back at the station, the four make their reports to Adelar.


    ¡°Something will happen at Port Moore in two weeks.¡± Lisa reports. ¡°Heard ¡®em mention a ledger. It¡¯s not much, but we have a location.¡±


    ¡°Our targets were talking about a port and a book in two weeks as well.¡± Durazo recounts what he heard. ¡°In addition, whatever they, whoever they are, are planning, it will happen at night.¡±


    Adelar claps twice with a satisfied smile.


    ¡°Oh, our client will be very pleased with that information. Make sure none of you have anything to do that night, I will need you all to be there!¡± He stands up. ¡°I will tell them immediately. Great work, you are all dismissed for today.¡±


    Solomon checks the time, they still have two hours before officially closing. ¡°Then again, if Adelar says so¡­¡±


    She tries to ask more about the situation before Adelar leaves, but no response comes from him other than the sound of a door closing.


    ¡°Dismissed, I¡¯ll gladly be.¡± Lisa yawns, stretching her arms as she leans back in her chair.


    ¡°Wait!¡± Solomon speaks up. ¡°Don¡¯t any of you think that this is¡­¡± she takes a look to make sure Adelar is gone. ¡°...weird? Like, who is that client? What is this connected to?¡±


    Lisa taps her cane against the floor.


    ¡°Unfortunately, we don¡¯t get paid to ask such questions.¡± Lisa shrugs. ¡°And we get paid a lot, so I¡¯ll keep it that way for the time being.¡± She chuckles softly in excitement. ¡°Not to mention, don¡¯t you find this thrilling, Solomon?¡±


    ¡°No?¡± The cat looks back incredulously. ¡°It could be dangerous! We¡¯ve seen five people who may or may not be a part of something bigger. What if they found out that we found them out?¡±


    ¡°You do have a point.¡± Yaroslav chimes in. ¡°But I agree with Lisa. This is the most comfortable my life has been. I can support my wife back at home and can visit her every month!¡±


    ¡°Listen¡­¡± Lisa glances at Solomon energetically. ¡°I¡¯ve been here for five years, and this is the biggest case in company history! That alone has me so excited!¡±


    ¡°Oh, mon Dieu¡­¡± Solomon covers her face with one hand and looks at Durazo, hoping that he would help her case.


    ¡°It does seem off.¡± Durazo admits, supporting Solomon¡¯s side of the argument. ¡°I say we wait and see what happens. Let¡¯s get back to this once we¡¯ve thought about it.¡±


    Lisa and Yaroslav nod, which makes Solomon feel relieved. Sure, it¡¯s only been a few months, but she really doesn¡¯t want her colleagues or herself to get seriously injured or worse by some illegal organisation.


    ¡°Alright, that settles that.¡± Says Lisa. ¡°Time to hit the bed.¡± She walks out of the building, followed by the others. The door is locked by the last person to exit, who is Durazo this time. It makes this whole company feel more like a family endeavour in Solomon¡¯s eyes.


    On her way home, Solomon can¡¯t help but keep thinking of the incident. What it could all mean¡­ She has to admit that it has her curious, but if she has to choose between knowing and safety¡­


    Once she¡¯s home, Solomon does her average evening routine before getting in bed: a shower, putting on pyjamas, brushing her teeth and dealing with the thoughts of imminent recurring nightmares. She doesn¡¯t look forward to that last one.


    She thought she would get used to it eventually, but she just never did. Every night, the same, barren desert, same ruins, same trees, same figure. She wonders just how long she can take it without going insane, but since that hasn¡¯t happened in over a year¡­ She goes to sleep.

 Chapter 2 - Descent

    A couple of days pass, Solomon spends Sunday, her day off trying to ease her mind. The client, the port¡­ She can¡¯t help being worried for her colleagues and herself. In her mind, however, all of it is overshadowed by the spirals on the backs of her hands. She feels somewhat selfish for that, but she wants to believe that her concerns are justified. Random patterns like this don¡¯t just appear on people, or at least they shouldn¡¯t. And worse, they don¡¯t seem to stop growing. She briefly considers sharing that information with her colleagues, but decides against it. Would they think that it¡¯s contagious? Is it contagious? She has no way to tell for certain, but she has yet to see anyone else have such complaints.


    Each night, the same dream, the same nightmare, but with one difference: the figure seems to be ever closer. She can¡¯t move when she¡¯s experiencing it, locked in a staring contest with the thing. She finds it best not to think about what will happen when it reaches her.


    Monday starts like every other day, she does her routine and gets to work, not expecting much from such an ordinary day, but staying hopeful in finding answers.


    ¡°I regret to inform you that I have yet to get back from our client.¡± Adelar states right as Solomon walks in. She already knows what this means, more of the same. But maybe that¡¯s for the best.


    ¡°I have already been called about a noise complaint.¡± Adelar continues. ¡°I need someone to take that one on.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll do it I guess.¡± Lisa says in a disheartened tone. ¡°I¡¯m also taking Solomon, she ain¡¯t had one of those yet.¡±


    Lisa¡¯s right, every time there was a noise complaint, Solomon always either had something else to do or just really didn¡¯t feel like going out to what will most likely be two neighbours arguing over something ferociously petty. But if there is a time to do it, she figures this is as good of a time as any. At least she isn¡¯t going alone.


    ¡°Sure, let¡¯s do it then.¡± Solomon affirms.


    Adelar gives them the details and tells Durazo and Yaroslav about a different case to work on while Solomon reads the paper. She and Lisa leave by car right after.


    ¡°This one called two hours ago?¡± Solomon thinks out loud later. ¡°We weren¡¯t even open then. Why not just call the police at that point?¡±


    ¡°Maybe they just know Adelar personally?¡± Lisa guesses. ¡°Thought he¡¯d be more helpful?¡±


    ¡°Fat chance of that.¡± Solomon scoffs. ¡±Let¡¯s just get this over with.¡±


    What¡¯s really on her mind is asking Lisa more about the port. Maybe this is a great time to ask, as the wolf looked to be in a good mood ever since they left.


    ¡°So¡­ What do you think of this whole port situation?¡± Saying it out loud, the question feels much more unnatural than she hoped.


    ¡°Can¡¯t get it out of your head, can ya?¡± Lisa shakes her head.


    Solomon looks down, figuring that she should not have asked.


    ¡°I¡¯ll be honest, I can¡¯t either.¡± Lisa admits, causing Solomon¡¯s ears to perk up. ¡°It¡¯s all just a bit weird, innit? Like, it seems a little too convenient that these two groups happened to be precisely when and where we were told they¡¯d be. And then they say the same things? I may not get paid to ask, but bloody hell, I can still have my suspicions.¡±


    Before they can continue the conversation, they arrive at the scene. The houses are far apart from one another, Solomon considers just how loud something would have to be to warrant a noise complaint here of all places. In addition to that, she doesn¡¯t hear anything out of the ordinary.


    The two get out and walk up to the door.


    ¡°Right, just follow me on this one.¡± Lisa orders, albeit in a casual tone. Solomon feels slightly patronised, she could handle it by herself. Then again, it makes her feel better to have backup.


    Lisa knocks on the door, which opens it slightly as she does. The door isn¡¯t even properly closed, let alone locked.


    ¡°That¡¯s strange¡­¡± Lisa pushes the door open. The house is a mess on the inside, pieces of furniture are tipped over, pieces of broken glass litter the floor in the kitchen.


    ¡°This just turned into a wellness check, I tell ya.¡± Lisa remarks and steps inside, gesturing to Solomon to do the same. Reluctantly, she follows.


    The situation is the same in most of the rooms they look inside, but not a soul is seen in any of them. They find nothing but the aftermath of what Solomon hopes is just a rather big fight and not something worse. The bathroom window is broken, likely due to the piece of wood that lies on the ground outside just under it, which looks to be the leg of a chair.


    Opening a door to the house¡¯s guest room, Solomon spots something concerning in one of the rooms: a carpet has been pulled away, revealing a trapdoor. Leading to it are claw marks on the wooden floor.


    ¡°Lisa¡­¡± Solomon says softly, thoroughly uncomfortable with the situation. The wolf turns to look and, to Solomon¡¯s surprise, her eyes open wide as she approaches without hesitation.


    ¡°Lisa, what are you doing?¡± Solomon asks, louder this time, Lisa is already opening the trapdoor.


    ¡°Detective work.¡± The wolf responds bluntly. Behind the door, there is a staircase leading down to a dark basement. Lisa sniffs the air, the look on her face turning ever so slightly less excited.


    ¡°Are you sure about this?¡± Concern is palpable in Solomon¡¯s voice, she finds her hands slightly shaking. The basement of this house in particular is the last place where she¡¯d like to go at this moment.


    The wolf looks back at her with a¡­ smile?


    ¡°You bet I¡¯m sure!¡± She says vibrantly. ¡°Listen, a noise complaint, the condition of the house, the coppery smell and now this? Someone clearly needs help down there. So I¡¯m going in, with or without you.¡±


    ¡°Coppery smell? Don¡¯t tell me¡­¡±


    Solomon would rather do just about anything but go down there, but she feels like Lisa has a point. Someone might indeed be down there, though she would much prefer the alternative.


    The two slowly make their way down the stairs. Being a cat and a wolf, they can see in the dark quite well. The walls are made of oak wood, the surface looks old, rough, and unpleasant to touch, which would likely result in more than a couple splinters, not to mention a nail visibly jutting out at one point. The smell is growing increasingly musty as they walk down, Solomon can make out the coppery smell Lisa was talking about.


    The stairs creak slightly under their feet. Looking ahead from the foot of the stairs, there is a hallway, around ten metres long, with a corner at the end to the right. Even in this narrow hallway, a couple barrels and pallets are stored, although in a better condition than the walls.


    Lisa sniffs the air and recoils slightly.


    ¡°That ain¡¯t good at all¡­¡± She says softly. Solomon asks her what she means, but Lisa shushes her.


    Quietly, or at least as quietly as they can, they make their way to the end of the hallway, Solomon following Lisa closely behind. They look at each other before the corner and take a peek.


    Solomon has no time to take in what the original purpose of the segment was, for they are greeted by a scene quite macabre: a white leaf-nosed bat with red eyes is crouched next to the corpse of what they guess is the owner of the house, lying in a puddle of blood, surrounded by four hooded figures. Evidently the scent that Lisa picked up at the foot of the stairs.


    Lisa doesn¡¯t stick around for long, she steps back to the hallway almost immediately. However, something in particular has Solomon transfixed. The bat has his sleeves rolled up and on his arms are crimson lines going from his fingertips all the way beyond where his sleeves are. She first mistook the markings for blood, but they are too pronounced, too unnatural, too deep a shade of crimson for that. They are thin and resemble veins, Solomon is sure she could see them shine briefly when she peeked around the corner.


    She comes to a conclusion that she hopes is wrong: whoever this is, he bears markings similar to her spirals. She¡¯s not prepared for such a revelation, in fact, she wants to scream, she wants to run, but she simply can¡¯t bring herself to look away. She feels horrified, but fascinated.


    ¡°Who is that?¡± A voice is heard from one of the hooded figures. The others turn their heads and glance to face Solomon, who is still looking in, straight into the red eyes of the bat now, seeing nothing but a strange mix of confusion and anger in his look.


    Lisa is about to start running when she notices that Solomon isn¡¯t moving. She pulls her away with her cane, which seems to snap her out of it. All of a sudden Solomon thinks of only one thing: get out.


    The two break into a sprint, in her terror, Solomon almost trips on one of the pallets, although managing to balance herself, but not without her right glove getting caught on a splinter, tearing a hole through it. Behind them, she can hear the hurried footsteps of the bat and the figures, which serves as an effective, but unwelcome motivator. Taking two steps at a time, fueled by adrenaline, they finally run out from the basement, Lisa then forcefully slams the door down, not giving their pursuers a chance to catch up.


    Practically breaking through the door, they run out the house. Lisa opens the car door on the right, Solomon jumps through it and into the seat. Lisa gets in not a second after, starts the car, and they leave, breaking the speed limit. Lisa takes a moment to catch her breath, Solomon is holding her head, the reality of the situation hitting her just now.


    ¡°You know Solomon¡­¡± Lisa says eventually. ¡°...should have just buggered off, I¡¯ll give ya that. And now I¡¯m not sleepin¡¯ tonight.¡± She keeps focus on the road, eyes wide open. She notices the lack of response from her feline companion, however.


    ¡°Solomon?¡± She looks over at her, the cat is looking ahead with a thousand-yard stare. All of this¡­ It¡¯s too much. As if her nightmares weren¡¯t bad enough, she feels like they¡¯ll only get worse now.


    Lisa puts a hand on her shoulder, which makes her shudder and look at her.


    ¡°You alright, Solomon?¡± Lisa asks worriedly. The cat turns her head to look ahead and nods, likely not convincing Lisa, to say the least.


    After what feels like a sufficient distance from the house, they stop at the side of the road, nothing but a grassy field on each side.


    ¡°That¡¯s a report if I¡¯ve ever seen one.¡± Says Lisa, dialling Adelar¡¯s number as she gets out of the car to breathe some fresh air.


    Solomon is slowly calming down, which she herself can hardly believe after seeing that. It¡¯s one thing that she saw the aftermath of a murder, but those crimson markings¡­ They somehow disturb her more.


    ¡°They were red¡­ Why were they red? Why are mine green and his red?¡±


    Stolen novel; please report.


    Lisa opens the door on Solomon¡¯s side after pacing around on the side of the road with her phone in her hand, breaking the train of thought.


    ¡°Hey, if you¡¯re feeling better¡­¡± She sighs. ¡°You saw much more of the scene. If it¡¯s alright¡­¡± Solomon nods and takes the phone from Lisa, who then closes the door.


    ¡°I want to hear everything, what did you see?¡± Says the voice of Adelar on the other end.


    She describes the scene, the basement, the body, the hooded figures, the bat, and mentions the markings in great detail.


    Adelar stays silent for a few seconds, leaving Solomon nervous.


    ¡°Are you absolutely certain that¡¯s what you saw?¡± Adelar asks in a tone which Solomon finds disturbingly calm.


    ¡°I¡¯m sure.¡± The feline replies, hoping for answers.


    More silence from Adelar, followed by a response entirely too vague for Solomon¡¯s liking.


    ¡°Then I¡¯m afraid this is beyond us. Do not speak of this to anyone. Not even the authorities.¡±


    He then hangs up.


    Solomon looks at the phone in utter disbelief and gets out of the car as well, suddenly feeling like she is being¡­ Watched, again. She looks around with a feeling of paranoia, but sees no one other than Lisa. It¡¯s just them and the fields, nobody even drove by them since they stopped.


    ¡°That was fast.¡± Lisa says, looking suspicious as she walks over to a concerned-looking Solomon. She explains what Adelar told her and she¡¯s pretty sure she can see Lisa¡¯s eye twitch. The wolf then takes the phone from her, dialling the same number.


    Solomon sits back down and wonders what exactly does the eagle know and why he refuses to share that information.


    Solomon can hear Lisa argue with Adelar over the phone, she looks, and sounds, livid.


    ¡°The fuck do you mean don¡¯t speak of this to anyone?!¡± Lisa demands, voice raised. ¡°What¡¯s this supposed to mean, Adelar?¡±


    A long pause from Lisa, during which Solomon hears, but doesn¡¯t understand the voice of their boss on the other end.


    ¡°Oh, you know I have to ask some questions now.¡± Lisa continues. ¡°The least I can do is inform the police. The actual police.¡±


    Another, longer pause follows her statement.


    ¡°You really expect us to just sit around while some Jack the Ripper-lookin¡¯ wanker is out there killing people?!¡±


    Solomon hears what sounds like one word coming from the other end. Lisa looks tense and frustrated. The cat has never seen, or wanted to see her like this.


    ¡°Do you have any idea-¡± She stops mid-sentence at Adelar¡¯s response and grits her teeth. ¡°Right. But I will not forget this.¡± She then hangs up and shakes her head.


    ¡°What¡¯d he say?¡± Solomon inquires, still shaken.


    ¡°We don¡¯t have to go back today. I¡¯m supposed to take that as a positive, but I would much rather have some bloody answers.¡± Looking defeated, Lisa gets back into the car. ¡°I can take you home if you want.¡±


    Solomon would much rather not be alone. Anything but to be alone with her thoughts and that thing in her dreams after all that happened¡­


    ¡°Would you mind if I stayed at your place?¡± She asks in a gentle tone.


    ¡°Not at all.¡± Lisa chuckles softly. ¡°Can¡¯t blame ya. I¡¯m sorry for all¡­ That.¡± Lisa looks down at the ground, then back at the cat. ¡°Was kinda stupid in retrospect, wasn¡¯t it?¡±


    Solomon shakes her head.


    ¡°You just wanted to help, didn¡¯t you?¡± She tries to comfort Lisa, despite what they witnessed. ¡°It wasn¡¯t just your playing Sherlock, you couldn¡¯t possibly have known what was down there!¡±


    That remark earns Solomon a short-lived frown from Lisa.


    ¡°I guess you¡¯re right on that.¡± The wolf smiles, her tail slightly swaying. ¡°Let¡¯s go to my place then.¡±


    The drive to Lisa¡¯s house is longer than Solomon would have expected. Still technically in Lanolow, at the other end of the city from the station, with no other house in a 300-metre radius.


    ¡°She goes to work all the way from here?¡±


    Her house is on top of a hill and looks old-fashioned, built with grey bricks. The roof is covered with grey tiles. Lisa goes to the front door, followed closely by Solomon.


    ¡°Make yourself feel at home.¡± Says the wolf, opening the door for her friend.


    Solomon steps inside. The interior of the house is like going back a couple centuries in time, vintage furniture and antiques decorate Lisa¡¯s house.


    Solomon looks around in awe. The living room has a built-in fireplace for heating, a couch for up to three people, decorative weapons, paintings of people she has never seen on the wall and even a phonograph. In stark contrast to that, there is a modern TV a safe distance away from the fireplace.


    ¡°Inheritance can sure have its upsides, eh?¡± Lisa walks to the kitchen which opens to the living room. Soon after, Solomon can hear the distinct sound of a kettle. ¡°Made some changes to the place myself.¡°


    From the living room, there is a set of stairs leading to an upper level, which is made up of a short hallway with a wooden railing overlooking the living room. Below that is just a wall with a bookshelf in front of it and a painting of a snowy landscape above the bookshelf. Solomon finds placing a wall there to be a bad use of space.


    On the first floor, she can see two doors along the wall and a third one at the end of the short hallway.


    ¡°Upstairs is where the bathroom is, you can also take a shower if you need to. Bedroom¡¯s at the end there. Really wish I had a guest room¡­¡± Lisa points up at the doors respectively, then goes back to the kitchen and finishes making herself a cup of tea. ¡°You need anythin¡¯?¡± She asks as Solomon sits down on the couch.


    ¡°No, I¡¯m alright, I think.¡± The feline wonders what it must feel like to wake up in this house every day, eyeing the phonograph. She doesn¡¯t see any vinyls that would go with it.


    Lisa comes out of the kitchen, sits down on the other side of the couch, and sips on her tea. They stay silent for one long moment.


    ¡°So does that thing even work?¡± Solomon breaks the silence, looking at the phonograph. Lisa¡¯s ears perk up.


    ¡°I¡¯m so glad you asked.¡± Lisa gets up, retrieves a cable from her room upstairs, and goes to the phonograph as Solomon shoots her a suspicious look. She plugs one end of the cable into a port on the device and the other into her phone. She then puts on a classical waltz song.


    ¡°Yeah, it¡¯s just a replica.¡± She explains. ¡°I always wanted one of these, but to be frank, I ain¡¯t going to have my music recorded onto vinyl.¡±


    Replica or not, the phonograph works as intended, complete with making the music sound¡­ Older.


    Solomon tries not to look weirded out by Lisa¡¯s antics, she admittedly finds the wolf¡¯s interests rather unorthodox, but charming. She has to respect the lengths Lisa will apparently go to support them.


    ¡°That¡¯s¡­ Nice!¡± Solomon says with a smile.


    ¡°Song¡¯s special to me.¡± Lisa says in a softer tone. ¡°Mum told me how she danced to this song with dad when they first met.¡± Her eyes seem to gleam slightly. ¡°I¡¯d like to do the same with my partner someday¡­ Well, my true partner, rather, whoever that¡¯ll be.¡± She adds in a bittersweet tone.


    ¡°I¡¯m sure you will, mon amie.¡± Solomon reassures her.


    She didn¡¯t come to know Lisa as the sentimental type, as she hardly showed her sensitive side, if at all.


    Lisa looks over to Solomon with a grin, her expression then quickly turns inquisitive. She approaches the cat, looking at her hands in specific. Solomon finds the wolf¡¯s sudden change of tone a little strange.


    ¡°Say, mate, I know this¡¯ll sound weird, but can I see your hands?¡± Lisa asks rather bluntly, causing Solomon to look down at her hands, only to see the gaping hole on her glove, the spiral on the back of her hand clearly showing. She instinctively clutches it and turns away from Lisa.


    ¡°No. No you can¡¯t. I¡¯m sorry, I just can¡¯t let you¡­¡± She lowers her head, her ears drooping.


    ¡°Solomon, I really, really need to confirm something.¡± Lisa attempts to put a hand on her shoulder, only for it to be swatted away.


    ¡°No, you don¡¯t understand¡­¡± The cat states, worried.


    ¡°And what if I do?¡± Lisa states vehemently. ¡°Let me take a wild guess here. Is it some marking in a colour that has no business being on your fur?¡± She crosses her arms.


    Solomon¡¯s eyes shoot wide open and her ears perk back up upon hearing what Lisa just said.


    ¡°Despite somethin¡¯ clearly being wrong, do all the doctors keep tellin¡¯ ya that it¡¯s normal?¡±


    Solomon turns to face Lisa with a look of bewilderment mixed with horror.


    ¡°How? How does she know? How could she possibly¡­¡±


    ¡°And most of all: does it seem to be growing?¡± Lisa bends down to be on eye level with Solomon, who looks back at her for a few seconds in confusion. She eventually removes her gloves to reveal her spiral-shaped markings.


    ¡°...how?¡± Solomon finally asks, utterly confused. ¡°How do you know this?¡±


    ¡°Not bad for a wild guess, eh?¡± Lisa stands back up, looking terribly satisfied with herself.


    ¡°No, seriously, just how do you know this¡­?¡± Solomon demands.


    ¡°You wanna know?¡± Lisa snickers. ¡°Well let me show ya.¡± She then turns around and takes off her coat, which catches Solomon by surprise. She¡¯s about to ask what she¡¯s doing, but she spots it. There is a thin, jagged, blue line going from her elbow up and beyond the grey shirt she¡¯s wearing. Lisa then lifts the back of her shirt, revealing more of the line, going down her back along the spine. She lifts her shirt more and Solomon can see that the line splits into two at the height of her shoulder and goes to her arms from there. It also splits apart just above the base of her tail.


    ¡°Goes all the way down to the back of my knees.¡± Lisa fixes her shirt and puts her coat back on. ¡°But I ain¡¯t showin¡¯ ya that.¡± She says with a sly smile.


    Solomon is left speechless, staring ahead at nothing in particular, her mind trying, and failing, to connect everything. Lisa waves in front of her face, snapping her out of it. Solomon shakes her head and looks the wolf in the eyes.


    ¡°A bit too much for a coincidence, dontcha think?¡± Says the wolf.


    ¡°So she has markings as well¡­ But hers are blue and cover much more than the hands. Green, red, blue¡­ Why?¡±


    ¡°I say we ask the others.¡± Lisa recommends.


    Solomon looks at her as if she just asked her to jump out the first floor window with her.


    ¡°Just think about it.¡± The wolf continues. ¡°We both got hired by the same guy to work for the same pay, which is way too high for what we actually do.¡± She explains, rubbing her chin. ¡°What if the others have them too? ¡®Cause now I think Father¡¯s white pattern looks real bloody unnatural. So I say we ask ¡®em. That¡¯ll confirm or deny that for sure.¡±


    Solomon rubs her temples as Lisa makes her suggestion, then lifts her head to face her.


    ¡°...and what if they don¡¯t?¡± The cat asks.


    ¡°Well then I¡¯ll admit it, it¡¯s one enormous coincidence.¡± Lisa shrugs. ¡°But then again, what are the odds of that?¡±


    Solomon looks down at her hands, wondering. Lisa has to be right. The chances of this happening purely by chance is way too low, she has never seen anyone else with a condition like this. And now there¡¯s Lisa and possibly her other colleagues, not to mention that bat¡­


    ¡°So? Whaddya say?¡± Lisa tilts her head and smiles at the cat expectantly.


    A tear rolls down Solomon¡¯s cheek as she stands up and pulls Lisa into a hug. Lisa is almost startled by her, but she returns the hug, her tail wagging as the cat gently sobs.


    ¡°S¡¯alright, s¡¯alright¡­¡± She pats her back, trying to comfort her. After a long moment, the cat stops sobbing and starts to purr softly, hugging Lisa tighter. Before, Solomon didn¡¯t think she would find someone who has a problem like hers, but not only did she find someone exactly like that, it turned out to be a person closer to her than she would have thought. Lisa¡­ The first friend she made in Britain, one who she¡¯ll treasure and keep as close as she can from now on.


    With that pleasant thought, she looks up and slowly lets go of the wolf.


    ¡°This is so¡­ Important for me, Lisa. I might get some answers, at last!¡± She wipes a tear from her eyes. ¡°Yes. Tomorrow, we¡¯ll go and ask them.¡± She takes out her phone and begins typing a message. ¡°I¡¯ll tell them to be there before Adelar, because I¡¯ll need to ask them something important.¡± She types away as Lisa unplugs her phone from the phonograph, the song having finished long ago.


    ¡°Alright, want me to take you home or you want to sleep here?¡± Lisa asks.


    ¡°Here¡¯s fine. If¡­ You don¡¯t mind.¡± Solomon looks up from the phone and answers, reluctantly.


    ¡°I kind of only have one bed though¡­¡± Says the wolf, rubbing the back of her neck.


    ¡°The couch is fine.¡± Solomon says right after.


    ¡°I could try to find a spare mattress, sure beats sleeping on a couch.¡± Lisa offers.


    ¡°No, no need for that.¡± Solomon waves her hand dismissively. ¡°Believe me, I¡¯ll be fine. Although, I¡¯ll need to pick up another pair of gloves tomorrow.¡±


    ¡°If you say so.¡± Lisa shrugs.


    The two spend the rest of the evening discussing how they¡¯ll go about asking their colleagues about the markings. Solomon hopes that what Lisa thinks is right. If not, it¡¯ll be a hard situation to explain. She wasn¡¯t even comfortable with sharing her secret with Lisa at first and now she¡¯s planning to tell two others the next day. Sounds absurd if she thinks about it, but maybe, just maybe, she¡¯ll be closer to figuring out what this all means.


    The couch sure felt more comfortable when she was just sitting on it, but she feels that it would be beyond rude to ask Lisa to do something about it now. The wolf is already in her pyjamas, which are light blue, baggy and even include a night cap, going into her room to sleep. Come to think of it, it¡¯s the first time she¡¯s ever seen Lisa wear anything other than that coat and chequered trousers.


    ¡°Night, mate.¡± Says Lisa.


    After Solomon wishes her goodnight as well, Lisa closes the door. Solomon then goes to sleep, for once, something other than the figure on her mind.


    Same old dream. Same setting. Same figure. Same sense of dread looming over Solomon as she just stares at the figure, like she does every night. She can¡¯t tell if it has come closer to her since last night. She then feels a sudden, overwhelming sense of panic as she sees the figure take a long step towards her.

 Chapter 3 - Corrosion

    Solomon wakes up, out of breath. That was too different from the rest of the nights for her liking. Taking a look at her hands, the spirals, they got noticeably longer this time. At least a couple centimetres.


    ¡°That¡¯s just great¡­¡±


    Lisa wakes up not long after, surprised that Solomon is already wide awake, given the time.


    ¡°Early bird or just couldn¡¯t sleep?¡± She asks with a chuckle.


    ¡°Kind of both¡­¡± Solomon sighs. ¡°Some dreams work much better than alarm clocks.¡±


    The two make some preparations in the morning and get ready to leave. Solomon is looking at herself in the bathroom mirror, checking if she looks at the very least somewhat presentable enough for work.


    ¡°Oi, Solomon!¡± Lisa shouts from the ground floor. ¡°Mind grabbing a coat for me? They¡¯re in the closet in my room.¡±


    Deciding that it can¡¯t be helped much more, Solomon walks into Lisa¡¯s room. It is just like the rest of the house, decorated with vintage furniture, and even has a queen sized bed.


    ¡°Doesn¡¯t she live alone?¡±


    ¡°She sure knows what she likes¡­¡± She says under her breath. She can¡¯t help but notice the lack of carpets in the room. Wooden floor, old, hand-carved nightstand, and to the right of the entrance, an even older-looking closet. She wonders how many pieces of the furniture and decoration were inherited and how many were bought by Lisa.


    Solomon opens the closet doors and inside are seven of the same-looking, blue trench coats on coat hangers along with six grey shirts and two stacks of three chequered pairs of trousers.


    ¡°Can¡¯t say I¡¯m surprised.¡±


    Solomon frowns and considers asking which one Lisa wants, but decides against it. She takes one of them and brings it down to Lisa, hearing a shrill, metallic sound coming from the kitchen.


    On the way, she notices a little card-shaped object on the living room table. It looks like a driving licence belonging to Lisa. She doesn¡¯t want to look nosy, but her eyes are just drawn to it. She looks around, Lisa is in the kitchen, sharpening a sword. Solomon takes a quick glance at the¡­


    ¡°Wait what?!¡±


    She looks back at Lisa. She saw it right the first time, the wolf is indeed sharpening a sword. The handle of it looks like the top of her cane.


    ¡°Lisa¡­ What¡¯s that for?¡± She asks in a concerned tone.


    ¡°Given what we saw in that basement¡­¡± The wolf responds, sheathing the sword into the shaft of her cane. ¡°Thought I¡¯d give it a little more edge.¡± She grins and goes to pour a cup of tea.


    ¡°And that¡¯s always been there?! Is that even legal?¡±


    Solomon has to admit, she feels ever so slightly safer knowing that, but she still questions what she just saw. At the very least, she can be sure that it¡¯s not a dream.


    She looks back at the driving licence on the table. It reads ¡°UK Driving Licence¡± at the top, in the next line is the word ¡°Luminescence¡±. Solomon squints, questioning if she read it correctly. Upon taking a closer look, it definitely reads ¡°Luminescence¡±. Below that is written ¡°Lisa¡±. It also has other information below her name, but Solomon isn¡¯t too interested in that.


    ¡°That¡¯s her full name? Lisa Luminescence?¡±


    ¡°You know, I never really thought about it.¡± Says Lisa, tapping her cane on the floor, now in the same rooms as Solomon. ¡°Can you use yours here?¡±


    Solomon looks over to Lisa, not being prepared for a question like that after learning that information.


    ¡°Your last name is¡­ Luminescence?¡± Solomon inquires, trying not to sound too impolite. Lisa merely nods in response.


    ¡°Yeah it is. What about it?¡± The wolf says as if it¡¯s the most natural thing in the world.


    ¡°It¡¯s just that¡­ It¡¯s not exactly common.¡± Solomon says, incredulously.


    ¡°Well that¡¯s because I had it changed. You¡¯d be surprised how easy it is. Or cheap, rather. Beats ¡°Smith¡± if you ask me.¡± She winks at the feline.


    Solomon decides it¡¯s best not to question any of that, the sword or the name. ¡°She sure finds ways to spend her money¡­¡±


    The two leave Lisa¡¯s house and go get Solomon another pair of gloves. It goes without incident, although they feel a little too big on her hands, despite these being the smallest ones she could find. They leave for the station right after.


    ¡°So this is it then.¡± Solomon mutters. ¡°We¡¯ll find out¡­ Something, I hope.¡± She thinks back to her old life, briefly. All that dealing with medicine and chemicals and the habits that formed as a result¡­ She is ultimately glad to have taken this job. The money¡¯s good, she found Lisa and just maybe, she will find some answers regarding her markings.


    The two enter the station, Yaroslav and Durazo waiting for them as agreed.


    ¡°What is it then?¡± Asks the bear, looking quite concerned for the two.


    ¡°Listen.¡± Solomon speaks up. ¡°We found out quite the bizarre coincidence.¡±


    Lisa shakes her head.


    ¡°Just show them your hand.¡± Says her wolf, rolling her eyes.


    The cat pauses and relents, taking off her gloves, revealing the spirals on the back of her hands.


    ¡°Do you have any strange markings on your body like this?¡± She nudges Lisa to show them hers, their eyes already wide open in surprise.


    ¡°So you say that this is a coincidence?¡± Yaroslav asks and seemingly peels off the fur from his hands. As it turns out, he was wearing furred gloves the whole time. ¡°That would explain the big hands.¡± Beneath it, pale blue patterns are visible, going from his fingertips to his wrists.


    The three then look at Durazo.


    ¡°You know¡­ My fur used to be completely brown.¡± He states. ¡°It started turning white all over my body. I thought it was just age, but that seems highly unlikely now.¡±


    Lisa¡¯s suspicions have been confirmed. All four of them must have been hired because of their markings.


    ¡°¡­But how did Adelar know? What caused them to appear in the first place?¡±


    They further discuss their experiences with the markings, they all say that they seem to be growing.


    ¡°Adelar must know something.¡± Lisa furrows her brows. ¡°I say we question him on it.¡±


    ¡°You sure that¡¯s a good idea? Who knows what kind of connections he has.¡± Says Yaroslav, looking concerned. ¡°He must have plans for us. One way or another.¡±


    ¡°He¡¯s right.¡± Solomon chimes in. ¡°We will have to figure it out ourselves. Who¡¯s in?¡± She sticks her hand out, expecting the others to put theirs on hers in a sort of a ¡°pact¡±.


    ¡°I¡¯m in.¡± Yaroslav puts his hand over Solomon¡¯s.


    ¡°Count me in as well, mates.¡± Lisa puts her hand on top.


    Solomon feels a strange sensation in her hand all of a sudden, like a tiny little vibration. The three glance at Durazo once again. He simply nods and puts his hand on top.


    ¡°Let¡¯s find some answers.¡± Solomon says with a look of sheer determination. ¡°And now¡­ I have a team of marked people. We will find answers, I know we will!¡±


    The four of them look at the person opposite to them and smile.


    But something feels wrong. Very, very wrong, as Solomon feels her hand tingle intensely for a couple seconds.


    Durazo¡¯s face starts glowing where it¡¯s white, growing brighter and brighter.


    ¡°The hell?¡± Lisa mutters, stepping back.


    They all pull their hands away. It isn¡¯t just Durazo, the markings on all of them are glowing in their respective colours. Lisa rolls up her sleeve, only to discover that the lines on her arms have grown past her elbows, and are rapidly advancing toward her hands. At the halfway point of the forearms, they split in two, now continuing as two lines.


    Yaroslav¡¯s markings are now past his wrists, going all the way up to his elbow.


    Solomon leans her back against a wall, one hand pressed against it. She is looking at her other hand in horror, gasping as her spiral slowly, but visibly makes another round on the back of her hand. But it doesn''t stop there, the glowing green line creeps up her wrist and goes around it, finally ending in a curve, resembling a bracelet. The same must have happened to her other hands as well. The movement may be stopped, but the markings are still glowing.


    ¡°Why is this happening?¡± She cries out and all of a sudden, she hears crackling, akin to that of a rogue electrical wire.


    ¡°What in the¡­?¡± Blue arcs of electricity surround Lisa¡¯s body all over, but it doesn¡¯t seem to hurt her in any way.


    Solomon looks over at Yaroslav, who touches a wall. Wherever he touches, a layer of ice remains after he pulls his hand away.


    ¡°Now I¡¯ve seen everything¡­¡± He says as he inspects his hands, small ice crystals forming on them.


    Durazo isn¡¯t just glowing anymore, he¡¯s shining a blinding light wherever his markings are. He tries to shield the others by covering the markings more, which have spread to his hands by now. Solomon hears him say what she guesses is a prayer in Spanish.


    And that¡¯s when she hears new sounds coming from very close to her. Drip. Sizzle. Drip. Sizzle. She looks down at her hand, which seems to secrete a dark green, odourless liquid. Her gaze is drawn down at the floor, where the liquid touched it, black spots remain. The sound of more sizzling can be heard from where her other hand is touching the wall. She quickly turns to look over, pulling her hand away. On the wall, a black handprint is seen where she touched it. Upon closer inspection, the wall seems to have melted where it was touched. No, not just melted, it seems to have dissolved. Looking at her dripping hands, she collapses onto her knees.


    ¡°Why¡­ Why?¡± She says, softly.


    Suddenly, the front door opens, Adelar walks into the station. He doesn¡¯t make it far before spotting his employees in various states of confusion, sorrow, and anger.


    ¡°ADELAR!¡± Lisa shouts thunderously, electricity arcing from her body as she walks towards the eagle.


    ¡°B-back off! Whatever you do, DO NOT touch me!¡± He recoils and reflexively holds his arm in front of him in defence.


    ¡°Then you better have a real good explanation for all this¡­¡± The wolf doesn¡¯t stop.


    Solomon watches the scene unfold, sobbing and scared. ¡°Would all that electricity go through his body if she did?¡± She looks back down at her hands and the increasingly worse-looking floor ¡°Better than if I were to touch him¡­¡±


    ¡°I said back off!¡± Says Adelar, holding out his hand and producing a flame from it.


    Lisa stops in her tracks.


    ¡°Now would ya look at that?¡± She crosses her arms and tilts her head.


    ¡°I need everyone to calm down, right now!¡± Says Adelar, carefully going around Lisa.


    Solomon feels as if she can never be calm again. Her hands are dripping with what seems like acid, how could she ever have peace after this? Is this her fate? Cursed to dissolve whatever she touches?


    ¡°It wasn¡¯t supposed to happen yet¡­¡± Adelar mutters, pacing back and forth, seeing that the situation isn¡¯t getting any better.


    ¡°I¡¯m givin¡¯ ya about ten seconds to explain before we find out what happens if I do touch you.¡± Lisa says with an unamused look.


    ¡°I seriously need you to be patient here, I can explain!¡± Adelar exclaims and turns to face her.


    To everyone¡¯s surprise, Durazo stops shining.


    ¡°Look!¡± Adelar points at him. ¡°I told you, it¡¯ll be fine! Just listen to me!¡±


    Yaroslav touches the wall again. It still gets frozen.


    ¡°You two!¡± The eagle points at Lisa and Yaroslav. ¡°I need you to concentrate. Doesn¡¯t it feel like something has changed inside you?¡±


    Solomon certainly feels like it, she has been feeling that way ever since the markings appeared. Something inside her is definitely wrong, changed. For just a second, she feels a sense of burning hatred for Adelar, but it doesn¡¯t linger.


    ¡°Find what¡¯s wrong, focus on it, take control of it! You should be able to feel it, it¡¯s a part of you now! Listen to your instincts!¡±


    Lisa scoffs and closes her eyes. It takes a good few seconds, but the arcs around her disappear, her markings stop glowing, looking rather surprised at how simple it was when she opens her eyes.


    If you spot this tale on Amazon, know that it has been stolen. Report the violation.


    ¡°I need you to spill whatever secrets you have. Right. Now.¡± The markings have spread all the way to her wrists. They sort of do look like electricity.


    ¡°Yaroslav!¡± Adelar looks towards the bear. By the time he does, his markings have stopped glowing as well.


    ¡°I see you have that under control, that¡¯s good.¡± Adelar states, relieved. He then turns towards the sizzling sound and looks at Solomon. The floor around her has black spots all over.


    ¡°That¡¯s a new one¡­¡± The cat looks up at him as a result of his remark, bewildered, what he just said hitting her like a ton of bricks.


    ¡°...what do you mean new one?¡± She asks, deeply concerned.


    Adelar asks her to hold out her hands, which she does.


    ¡°I have never seen anything like this before¡­¡± He observes from a safe distance.


    ¡°What is this, Adelar?! Why is this happening to us?¡± Solomon demands, looking distraught. Then she looks at her colleagues. None of their markings are glowing anymore. Surely, hers will stop as well, or so she hopes. Lisa gives her a reassuring look, having gone through the same along with the others.


    ¡°At least you described that feeling inside accurately.¡± Yaroslav remarks. ¡°That something has changed¡­ I thought it was bad advice at first, but it worked.¡±


    Solomon¡¯s colleagues instruct her on what to do exactly as best as they can. This something that has changed inside her¡­ She¡¯s having a hard time finding it, like a sixth sense. It takes her a while, much longer than it took the rest, in fact, but eventually her spirals stop glowing. They don¡¯t just look like spirals anymore either, more like spirals connected to bracelets on her hands. Solomon isn¡¯t sure how she¡¯ll deal with this, if she can at all. She has so many questions¡­ But at least there is someone who can answer her.


    ¡°There. Better?¡± Adelar asks, sympathetic.


    Solomon nods, but isn¡¯t comfortable with anything she just learned.


    ¡°Why¡­ Why did that happen?¡± She questions, her voice shaking.


    ¡°I¡¯m trying to figure that out myself.¡± The eagle shakes his head. ¡°Other than Durazo¡¯s, none of yours seemed to be too developed at the time.¡±


    Lisa suddenly grabs the eagle by his tie.


    ¡°What. Are. They?¡± She demands, looking irritated. ¡°They¡¯re the reason why you hired us, aren¡¯t they?¡±


    ¡°Listen¡­¡± Adelar begins to say. ¡°There¡¯s no other way to put it¡­ You are what I call Mystic Ones.¡±


    Lisa blinks incredulously. Yaroslav and Durazo look at each other, the canine shrugs. Solomon only has more questions after that answer. If she can even call it an answer, as it really doesn¡¯t tell her anything.


    ¡°What?¡± Lisa asks after a long pause and releases the eagle.


    ¡°In fact, I am one too. As you¡¯ve seen. A Blazing One. There are different types¡­¡±


    Solomon stands up and walks over to him.


    ¡°You know, that really doesn¡¯t answer much¡­¡± She remarks.


    ¡°Okay, long story short, there is magic in the world!¡± Adelar exclaims, earning a questioning look from the others.


    ¡°I¡¯d prefer the long story, quite frankly.¡± Says Lisa.


    ¡°I never was good with explanations after being threatened like that.¡± Adelar sighs and leads them to the meeting hall.


    ¡°Okay so¡­¡± Adelar begins. ¡°Here¡¯s what I have found in my research so far. For some reason that I do not know, people can take on magical properties. It manifests itself as these markings on the body. The more of your body is covered with them, the more powerful it is.¡±


    Solomon looks at her hands. ¡°This isn¡¯t supposed to be that powerful?¡±


    ¡°So I will ask you this. How much of you are covered? What limbs do the markings extend to?¡± Adelar asks with a look of intrigue.


    ¡°What about you?¡± Durazo rebuts. ¡°You said you were a so-called Blazing One.¡±


    ¡°Just my arms.¡± Adelar rolls up his sleeves. ¡°I can set things aflame using it, more or less. There are techniques too¡­¡± He shakes his head. ¡°I¡¯m getting ahead of myself.¡±


    ¡°And what about the rest of us?¡± Lisa chimes in. ¡°You better explain what you need us for right after as well.¡±


    ¡°In time, in time.¡± Adelar put out his arms, urging them, specifically Lisa, to stay calm. ¡°But I need to know where you¡¯re affected.¡±


    The four briefly explain what parts of their bodies are covered with the markings.


    ¡°Yaroslav.¡± He glances at the bear. ¡°You are a Frost One. Basically my opposite. Objects and surfaces freeze at your touch.¡±


    ¡°I think I figured that out.¡± He responds, seemingly just annoyed at his admittedly simple explanation.


    ¡°Our own type doesn¡¯t affect us.¡± Adelar explains. ¡°So freezing temperatures, or anything that freezes will have no effect on you, maybe other than a mild sense of discomfort. Cold? Not a problem.¡±


    ¡°Maybe that¡¯ll come in handy.¡± Yaroslav looks at his markings and smiles, scratching at his chin, likely having ideas already.


    ¡°Durazo.¡± Adelar looks at the ex-priest. ¡°You¡¯re A Bright One. Light is a little more¡­ Special, shall we say. Shining your light on others will heal their wounds, albeit slowly. A lot of your body is covered in light markings, that should make it that much stronger.¡±


    Durazo¡¯s eyes light up with excitement.


    ¡°I can heal people with light?¡± He smiles. ¡°That is some welcome news at least.¡±


    Solomon wonders what these powers might be related to. She knows Durazo as a good person who wants to help people. That could explain his light. ¡°But then why are my hands acidic?¡±


    ¡°Lisa.¡± Adelar looks at the rather impatient-looking wolf.


    ¡°Let me guess. Electric One?¡± She asks with a tired look.


    ¡°That is correct. Your arms, legs and back all have that blue line connecting it. That means your whole body is affected. Based on what I have learned, you should be mastering your powers the fastest. That being electricity.¡±


    ¡°So I basically have a built-in taser?¡± Lisa raises an eyebrow.


    ¡°It¡¯s so much more than that.¡± Adelar says excitedly. ¡°You¡¯ll see once you develop your own technique. But before that, I will teach you how to take control of it to the best of my ability.¡± He then looks at Solomon.


    ¡°And you, Solomon¡­¡± He inspects the cat¡¯s hands again. ¡°I have never seen anything like this¡­ Green with a spiral pattern?¡±


    Solomon looks down at her hands, the spirals remind her of some kind of parasitic plant wrapping itself around a tree, sapping its vitality.


    ¡°It just makes my hands produce acid.¡± She says in a low voice. ¡°Why? I can see some benefit to all the others, what¡¯s the upside here?¡±


    ¡°Yours might be entirely new.¡± Adelar looks at her patterns, puzzled. ¡°We¡¯ll call it¡­ Acid One!¡±


    Solomon shudders at the mere thought of that. ¡°Acid One? Really?¡±


    ¡°Where did you even learn all this?¡± Solomon asks, in desperate need of answers.


    ¡°I cannot tell you that.¡± Adelar sits back, deep in thought. ¡°Not right now. I need to know if I can trust you. I need to know that you won¡¯t run to the first authority figure and tell well-kept secrets. I need to know if you will continue working with me after this.¡±


    ¡°Really?¡± Lisa laughs. ¡°What makes you think we would do that?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll double your pay.¡± He states, causing Lisa to pause.


    ¡°You know, I might just consider it¡­¡± Lisa responds eventually with a wicked smile.


    ¡°I need not a raise.¡± Durazo smiles at the eagle. ¡°God must have wanted me to do this. I have found my place.¡± He holds his hands together in a praying gesture.


    ¡°That¡¯s a lot of money¡­¡± Says Yaroslav, rubbing his hands together. ¡°Much better than the old job. I¡¯m in.¡±


    Solomon looks at her colleagues dumbfounded. ¡°That¡¯s it? That¡¯s all it took to convince them?¡±


    ¡°So?¡± Adelar gives her a hopeful look.


    Solomon thinks for a long moment. Sure, this would mean even more money¡­ But then again, she has no idea what she might need to use her newfound and unwanted powers on. Her best guess is that it isn¡¯t going to be simple chemistry. Whatever her power can be used for¡­ It can¡¯t be good.


    She makes up her mind.


    ¡°No.¡± She says, holding back tears. ¡°No. I won¡¯t be your ¡°Acid One¡±, Adelar.¡±


    The eagle recoils in surprise.


    ¡°Solomon, we could explore your potential!¡± He leans forward, holding his hands apart. ¡°There could be so much more to-¡±


    ¡°I said no!¡± She cuts him off, a tear rolling down her cheek. ¡°Why do you need us so much? What are you planning?¡±


    ¡°I guess it can¡¯t be helped.¡± Adelar sighs. ¡°I founded this organisation to keep Mystic Ones and their magic a secret, and to fight against another, opposing organisation.¡±


    Solomon stands up, Adelar gestures to her to stay.


    ¡°You will need to fight eventually, which I will train you for.¡± He continues. ¡°However, you are not the first ones and there¡¯s no guarantee that you¡¯ll survive.¡±


    That statement seems to cause concern for all the others.


    ¡°They are dangerous and could be anywhere. Your targets for eavesdropping are suspected to be members of the org. That¡¯s all we know so far.¡±


    Solomon¡¯s ears droop so far down, they feel as if they¡¯ll just fall off. She stares the eagle down, in a way, feeling betrayed. ¡°He wants me to be a part of some shady organisation so it can fight another shady organisation?¡±


    ¡°Kinda just sounds like magic MI6.¡± Lisa jokes, causing the eagle to sigh.


    ¡°Call it what you want, all I ask of you is whether or not you join. And if you do, to keep it a secret.¡± Adelar practically pleads.


    ¡°For that much money?¡± Lisa smirks. ¡°Who do you want me to zap?¡±


    Solomon can feel her left eye twitch.


    ¡°And why did¡­ That, happen? Why did these powers manifest so suddenly when we all touched hands?¡± She asks, feeling upset, still.


    ¡°My best guess is that the presence of other Mystic Ones with dormant powers in such direct contact helped accelerate the awakening of the magic.¡± Adelar looks around one more time. ¡°So, who is willing to stay, knowing the risks?¡±


    Once again, Yaroslav, Durazo, and Lisa all respond affirmatively after a few moments of deliberation.


    Solomon can hardly believe what she¡¯s seeing. All three of them are willing to stay, and maybe even die, for this?


    ¡°Still no.¡± She finally states. ¡°I never asked for any of this! I never wanted to have ¡°magic inside me¡±, and I definitely never wanted to have hands that can melt whatever I touch!¡± She sobs, her voice breaking slightly.


    ¡°And I won¡¯t hold that against you.¡± Adelar says with a calm, understanding look. ¡°You can leave. If you¡¯re sure, I will not ask you again. Just please never tell anyone.¡±


    ¡°Then I will leave.¡± Solomon says on an impulse, putting on her gloves. She turns around to exit the building, her colleagues look at her with empathy.


    ¡°Roxanne Solomon, you are dismissed.¡± Adelar nods. ¡°Do not return unless you have changed your mind. Goodbye.¡±


    His words cut deep. She either quits and starts a new life yet again or stays and possibly hurts people at his command. She could not bear the guilt of doing that, especially not with her acidic hands. Without saying a word, she walks out of the room.


    ¡°Solomon?¡± She hears Lisa¡¯s voice, but doesn¡¯t look back.


    She walks out the front door and begins walking straight to her home. Preposterous! She never wanted to hurt anyone and now¡­ Now she has magical acid. To her, it sounds like cosmic irony, something she never thought she of all people would experience to such a degree. None of this makes sense to her. Not at all.


    Walking up the stairs leading to her apartment, she stumbles and lightly punches the wall in anger. She fiddles with the key before her door, but eventually unlocks it. Sobbing, she walks in, closes the door, and collapses in her bed.


    ¡°Why¡­ Why me?¡± She says to no one, thinking about ways to possibly fix this somehow. She wants to know the reason, the meaning, why does it have to be her?


    But that¡¯s a matter that can wait. She will need to find another job sooner or later. And her hands¡­ These magical, green spirals need to be taken care of as well. After a few minutes of lying in bed, she gets up and takes off her gloves, hoping that by some miracle, the markings would no longer be there. Of course, they still are, looking to her like her very hands are being choked.


    She remembers how they would store types of acid in glass containers at the pharmacy she used to work at. Maybe, just maybe¡­ She gets to her desk and tries to replicate the incident. After countless failed attempts, she gets into the right headspace and figures out the proper way to make it work. Her marking lights up, her right hand secretes the green liquid once more. A drop falls into the glass. It goes from dark green to completely black, becoming a seemingly harmless substance after.


    Solomon is elated to have figured something out about her unwanted power, but then hears the sizzling¡­ She looks at her left hand, which lit up as well, evidenced by the black discolourations on the floor below where her hand is. She panics, then remembers the earlier events. She closes her eyes, her mind goes blank, she is calm¡­ When she opens her eyes, the markings are no longer glowing. ¡°Well, that¡¯s progress¡­¡±


    She spends the rest of her day trying to figure out how to really control it so she doesn¡¯t accidentally dissolve something she really shouldn¡¯t. After all, it wasn¡¯t supposed to be all that powerful, right? ¡°Two states: glowing or not glowing. It can¡¯t be that hard.¡±


    It takes her hours and glasses full of the harmless, black liquid, but by the end of the day, she can switch between the two states pretty freely.


    She then has a realisation. ¡°Why am I doing this?¡± Looking at the window, she can see that the sun has already set, she had the lights on. How long did she just spend doing that? She wanted to get away from this power, yet she just spent the rest of her day looking into it, experimenting¡­ Which concerns her greatly. She could hardly even tell the passage of time.


    To try and ease her mind, she goes to the kitchen for a meal and a drink. This whole situation is only making her feel worse, all of a sudden, but as long as she doesn¡¯t get involved, it should all be fine.


    Solomon spends the rest of the evening taking a shower and thinking. She will need to talk to her colleagues, she did storm off pretty suddenly¡­


    Later, Solomon hears a knock at her door. She hopes that it¡¯s just one of them coming to check up on her, but puts on her gloves just in case it isn¡¯t.


    She opens the door, behind it are three people she doesn¡¯t recognise. A jackal standing in the middle, a ferret on his right, and a lizard on his left, all in streetwear.


    ¡°Good evening?¡± Solomon says reluctantly.


    ¡°This the one?¡± The jackal asks in a deep voice.


    The lizard looks at a piece of paper, then Solomon, then nods.


    The jackal suddenly grabs Solomon, puts a hand over her mouth and a knife to her throat. They bring her back into her apartment.


    ¡°Sorry to say, but you know too much.¡± Says the ferret and shrugs.


    Terror rushes through Solomon¡¯s heart and mind. She has no time to think¡­ No time to think about anything at all, except one thing. Even just the thought makes her feel sick, but she has to¡­ She has to survive.


    In one quick motion, she removes her gloves, her ¡°spiral bracelet¡± already glowing.


    ¡°She¡¯s one of them!¡± Shouts the lizard with a look of horror, but it¡¯s too late. She firmly grabs onto the jackal¡¯s wrist. A bone-chilling howl follows as the jackal lets go of Solomon and takes a look at his hand, only to find out that it is no longer there. He looks down, his hand having fallen to the floor, still holding the knife. Solomon is surprised by the sheer potency of the acid, dissolving not just the flesh, but the bone too.


    ¡°Nobody told us about this!¡± Says the ferret. He and the lizard run out of the room, leaving the jackal to his fate.


    The jackal whimpers, kneeling on the floor, holding onto his destroyed wrist. Solomon looks down at him with utter, burning disdain. How dare he attack her?


    With that thought, she grabs onto his throat, and her marking lights up once again.


    She then realises what she just did and quickly lets go, taking a step backwards.


    ¡°What have I done¡­?¡± Taking a quick look at the jackal, the acid has done too much damage. He¡¯s dead, or soon will be. There is nothing she can do now.


    She looks down at her hand, her palm is black from what she hopes is just the acid residue and not what used to be flesh. This hand of hers, it was in self-defence, but it still did that. The thought deeply sickens Solomon, transfixed by the sheer destruction of the body that her power can cause.


    ¡°What was that?¡± A voice is heard from outside, followed by hurried footsteps, snapping her out of it. It wouldn¡¯t be a good look if someone found her like this¡­ She steps over the body, opens the window, and climbs down to the ground.


    Her heart pounding, she runs away from the scene. Even from there, she can hear the scream of whatever unfortunate soul has stumbled upon the jackal. ¡°This can¡¯t be happening, this can¡¯t be happening, this can¡¯t be happening!¡± is all that is on her mind for minutes. ¡°Why did I do that? I was safe when I touched his hand. Why didn¡¯t I stop?¡± She can¡¯t get the sound of sizzling flesh and bone out of her mind, combined with the sight, the life draining from the jackal¡¯s eyes, the pain that it must have caused him¡­ She never before imagined taking someone¡¯s life, let alone in a manner like that.


    She runs, then jogs, and eventually slows down to a walk. Nobody¡¯s after her, at least. But what now? Where can she go? One of her colleagues? No, she can¡¯t put them in such danger, someone just tried to kill her after all. ¡°She¡¯s one of them!¡± The sentence echoes in her mind. What do they know that she doesn¡¯t? They must have been with that bat she saw in that basement, there¡¯s nothing else out of the ordinary that she saw.


    She roams the streets and stops in an alleyway in the end, the full Moon and the streetlights illuminating the streets. She can¡¯t put anyone other than herself in such danger. ¡°But then what am I supposed to do?¡±


    She thinks for many, long minutes. Does she go to the police after all? She just left from her own apartment, which is a crime scene now, that won¡¯t work. Should she just go back to France? Go back to living as an apothecary? She looks down at her hands and removes her gloves. These spirals¡­ They are the reason she got such a well-paying job, the reason why she was deceived with one anyway. But that could still be an opportunity¡­


    She thinks. She thinks for a long time. Where else can she go if not there? There¡¯s no one else she can trust at a time like this, as much as she wishes that it was not the case. Taking another look at her hands, she finally decides. There is only one man in the town who can help her now. And to that man is where she will go, first thing in the morning. Until then, she needs to hide¡­

 Chapter 4 - Alliance

    The night goes slowly. Solomon is sure to check behind her back every now and then, not staying in one place for too long. She does as she was once told: ¡°always walk as if you know exactly where you are going, don¡¯t look lost.¡± Advice which she has taken to the heart. She is glad that at least the weather is merciful enough not to drench her. It takes her a while, but she finds a particularly friendly-looking alleyway where she settles down for the remainder of the night when she starts to feel tired. Awake and alert, but no longer on the run. Still very much alone with her thoughts, which she positively hates, she truly hopes that she can get the help she needs the next day.


    The sun is coming up, the night is finally over. She hasn¡¯t slept a bit, but that won¡¯t stop her from going back. She has wandered quite far from her apartment, but she is still within walking distance to the station. She beelines towards it, certain that it¡¯s open. She barges in to find that no one is inside. ¡°But the door wasn¡¯t locked?¡± She sees that someone has attempted to at least hide the marks of corrosion on the floor and wall with a carpet and a chair.


    In the meeting hall, the main table is pushed aside to reveal a trapdoor. ¡°Damnit, not again!¡± She feels less than excited about seeing another trapdoor, the thought that it was always there doesn¡¯t make her feel any better, but she¡¯s in desperate need of more answers and help. ¡°Here goes nothing.¡±


    She opens up the door to find a ladder. Sure, the station itself could use a new coat of paint, but down there, it¡¯s even worse. Even from up there, she can tell that it¡¯s a place that hasn¡¯t been used for a while, whatever use it may have. Standing at the bottom by the ladder is, to her delight in a way, Adelar.


    ¡°You could have just called me, you know.¡± Says the eagle, looking pleased to see her. ¡°So you came back?¡±


    Solomon sighs and swiftly makes her way down. There is a very small room there with a door that leads to what she guesses is the rest of the basement. She can hear the crackling of electricity coming from beyond it.


    ¡°Hello to you as well, Adelar.¡± She retorts, causing Adelar to laugh.


    ¡°So, how come you came back?¡± He asks in a tone that comes off as overly condescending to Solomon.


    ¡°Listen, I need your help. There was trouble back at-¡± She tries to explain, only to be cut off by the eagle.


    ¡°Your apartment?¡± He asks, crossing his arms. ¡°It¡¯s already been taken care of.¡±


    Solomon¡¯s eyes widen in astonishment.


    ¡°The police were called, and lucky for you, I was called as well.¡± Adelar smiles proudly. ¡°I knew you either had to be attacked, or you just went mad. Had the scene taken care of.¡±


    Solomon shakes her head vigorously.


    ¡°How? How did you do that?¡± She demands.


    ¡°Well, there were no fingerprints to be found where you touched him. In fact, there wasn¡¯t much left of those areas... We labelled it a burglary gone wrong. Officially: he climbed in through the window, tried to steal something that looked expensive, pried open a glass filled with a particularly potent acid and that ended up happening. Place is still actively being investigated, so I don¡¯t recommend you go back there today.¡±


    ¡°You did all that¡­ For me?¡± Solomon wonders why he would even go through such effort for her after leaving in the manner she did.


    ¡°Of course.¡± Adelar smiles. ¡°You may not want to work with me, but I will still try to keep such magic a secret.¡±


    Solomon puts her arms behind her back and sways.


    ¡°Well¡­ About that.¡± She says, Adelar looks at her expectantly. ¡°I might just need that training you mentioned. Since someone tried to kill me yesterday, I don¡¯t feel safe at all.¡±


    ¡°So you are willing to work with me then?¡± The eagle nods.


    ¡°Yes.¡± She says without hesitation. ¡°If that¡¯s the price of my safety, then yes.¡±


    ¡°Welcome back, in that case.¡± Adelar claps once. ¡°Come, meet the others. They¡¯re figuring things out already.¡±


    He opens the door, which leads to a rather large room, seemingly bigger than the station. This room is well-kept, clean, and has various dummies in it made out of different materials from metal to a gel-like substance. Close to the walls, benches are placed with many different tools and items on them. Solomon isn¡¯t focusing on those, however, rather, her three colleagues.


    ¡°Knew you¡¯d come back.¡± Lisa states matter-of-factly, looking happy to see her friend again.


    ¡°No you didn¡¯t.¡± Yaroslav begins to say. ¡°You even said you would go check if-¡±


    ¡°ANYWAY Solomon, welcome back!¡± Lisa cuts him off as Durazo bows slightly to greet her. Solomon smiles widely, downright ecstatic on the inside. So much has changed, yet nothing at all.


    ¡°So¡­ What is this place, exactly?¡± She asks with a curious look.


    ¡°This is where you will receive your training. We should have all the tools we need here.¡± Adelar points to the benches by the wall on the other side of the room. ¡°You should eventually discover how you can use your magic best. And just to make sure¡­¡± He holds out his hand. ¡°Are you in now?¡±


    Solomon doesn¡¯t hesitate at all. She needs Adelar¡¯s help, she wants to feel safe again.


    ¡°Of course I¡¯m in.¡± She then takes off her gloves and shakes his hand.


    Out of nowhere, she feels a sudden urge to activate her power, along with the faintest of anger deep within her. She lightly shakes her head and quickly snaps out of it. ¡°Call of the void¡­¡±


    ¡°First questions.¡± Solomon takes a deep breath and puts her hands together. ¡°Tell me, where did you learn all this about magic? Who worked for you before us?¡±


    Adelar pulls on the collar of his suit, looking to the side for a moment.


    ¡°I learned most of what I know from other Mystic Ones.¡± He looks down at the floor and sighs. ¡°Two Blazing Ones. All you need to know is that¡­ Well, they didn¡¯t last long.¡±


    His response doesn¡¯t exactly encourage Solomon regarding her position¡­ But she¡¯ll take what she can get.


    ¡°We¡¯ll be better.¡± Lisa chimes in, looking just as terribly confident as the tone she used to say that. ¡°Watch this!¡±


    Solomon observes what the others can do. Much like she expected, Lisa¡¯s touch will electrify whatever she uses her power on, mostly metals and conductive materials, a considerable shock at that, as far as she can tell.


    ¡°Feels like it¡¯s the most I can do for now. But it¡¯s still pretty wicked!¡± She states with excitement in her voice.


    ¡°Have you tried what happens when you electrify, let¡¯s say a puddle?¡± Solomon suggests.


    ¡°We¡¯ve got to try that.¡± Lisa likely wonders how come she didn¡¯t think of that yet.


    ¡°Yaroslav¡¯s ice interests me greatly.¡± Says Adelar. ¡°It¡¯s extraordinary! It rapidly seeps into any material, significantly lowering its structural integrity!¡±


    Solomon hasn¡¯t seen an eagle be so excited about ice before.


    ¡°Simple, if it¡¯s frozen, it¡¯s easier to break.¡± Yaroslav explains.


    Solomon turns to Durazo, who shines his light onto her. Rather than the blinding, stinging light she was exposed to just the other day, this time it feels soothing.


    ¡°If only I could use this on the people that need it¡­¡± Durazo says in a sullen tone, looking at the eagle.


    ¡°Utmost secrecy. We do not want the public to know about it. Can you even imagine what the government would do to get their hands on any of these powers?¡± Adelar responds with authority in his voice. Solomon can tell that there¡¯s no arguing with him about that matter.


    ¡°Speaking of¡­¡± Adelar continues. ¡°I unfortunately still have to make this look like a legitimate business. When we get a call, someone has to respond.¡±


    ¡°Can¡¯t we just hire some poor sod to do that while we do something actually important?¡± Lisa suggests.


    ¡°That would risk our secrets getting out. I have thought about that, but ultimately, it¡¯s too risky.¡± Adelar turns to look at Solomon. ¡°So let¡¯s make the most of what time we have.¡±


    ¡°While we¡¯re on the topic¡­¡± Solomon begins to say. ¡°How¡¯d you even find us? You couldn¡¯t tell that we had markings just from the CV pictures.¡±


    ¡°You see¡­¡± Adelar smirks. ¡°I happen to have some connections with some doctors. Namely in places such as the UK, France, Russia, Spain, as well as Italy and especially Germany.¡±


    Solomon eyes him terribly suspiciously.


    ¡°...Why exactly do you have these connections?¡± She inquires, the others look just as curious to hear.


    ¡°Specifically for this, of course.¡± Adelar chuckles. ¡°I was kind of important in my youth.¡± He states proudly, then quickly shakes his head. ¡°But that¡¯s not important now. Let¡¯s get to work.¡±


    Adelar¡¯s explanation doesn¡¯t put Solomon at ease at all, but she figures that it can¡¯t be helped for now.


    She stays there for a good few hours, mainly trying her power on different materials, which all invariably dissolve into a black puddle. However, there is one exception: glass. Adelar expresses his confusion about it, an acid this potent should have no problem dissolving glass. Then again, it is magic. Maybe that¡¯s just how it works.


    ¡°Solomon? Everything alright?¡± The feline hears Adelar ask after the lengthy experimentation.


    ¡°Oh, yeah, I just¡­ I didn''t sleep all night. I think it¡¯s catching up to me.¡± Solomon rubs her eyes, then quickly pulls her hands away, her mind racing about what effects her acidic hands would have on her body.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry.¡± Says Adelar, noticing her concerned look. ¡°You¡¯re an Acid One. You should be unaffected by your own magic.¡±


    Solomon then gets a rather impulsive thought. Her spirals light up and she grasps her own wrist. Nothing. It¡¯s as if she just put a wet hand on her wrist. The floor it¡¯s dripping onto, however, certainly looks in a worse condition now.


    ¡°Sorry!¡± She says with an awkward smile, looking up from the burned spots on the floor to meet Adelar¡¯s gaze. ¡°I¡¯m just so tired right now¡­¡±


    ¡°I need you to focus, Solomon. I need you in top condition. You can go and rest, it¡¯s very apparent that you need to.¡± Adelar advises.


    ¡°No, no, I¡¯m fine.¡± She once again dismisses his concerns. ¡°Where would I even go? My apartment is currently a crime scene, remember?¡±


    ¡°I can take you to my place, you know.¡± Lisa speaks up. ¡°You¡¯re welcome there at any time.¡±


    ¡°Thanks, Lisa.¡± Solomon smiles at the wolf. ¡°But I have to test a few things first.¡±


    The tests in fact, take up the rest of the day. She figures out how to light up only one of her hands, which takes the most time to figure out. She tests how long her acid stays potent after leaving contact with her. To test that, she puts her hand in a glass container and lights up her marking. The container fills up more and more, staying green until she removes her hand from it.


    She repeats the process, pouring the green liquid out onto a testing plate, careful not to get any on her dress. She may be immune to her acid, but she figures that it doesn¡¯t apply to what she¡¯s wearing. It always yields the same result: the acid doesn¡¯t seem to lose potency as long as she is in contact with it, but quickly loses its effect soon after. It also doesn¡¯t regain its potency if she touches the black liquid or if it mixes with her acid.


    She makes numerous tests with the corrosive liquid, diligently repeating the same experiments to be absolutely certain that it always does the same.


    ¡°Solomon¡­ Don¡¯t you think it¡¯s enough for now?¡± Aderlar gently shakes her to make her stop.


    She looks back, frowning.


    ¡°Just a couple more tests, Adelar.¡± She yawns. ¡°Then we can leave.¡±


    ¡°Solomon, look at yourself! You look¡­¡± He turns her around and looks her in the eyes.


    ¡°Quite frankly, you look terrible.¡± Lisa says with a worried expression.


    Solomon goes to look at herself in a small mirror used for testing and gasps. Her eyes are bloodshot and have bags under them. She certainly looks rather dishevelled.


    ¡°Father, what¡¯s the time?¡± She asks, not looking away. She hears no response from him, but she does hear a very uneasy Lisa respond.


    ¡°Solomon¡­¡± She says with amplified concern. ¡°Father and Yaroslav already went home after some more training. You didn¡¯t even notice?¡±


    The feline snaps away from the mirror and towards Lisa, then looks around. The two are indeed gone.


    ¡°Wh-what¡¯s the time?¡± She asks with a manic look.


    ¡°Seven in the evenin¡¯, mate.¡± Lisa states after checking the time on her phone.


    Solomon¡¯s heart sinks. ¡°That¡¯s an hour after we normally close. It happened again? It can¡¯t continue like this. It just can¡¯t.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m taking you home, Solomon.¡± Lisa goes to take the cat¡¯s hand, but grabs onto her wrist instead out of caution. ¡°You need to rest. You seriously need to rest.¡±


    Solomon just nods along and looks at Adelar, feeling extremely tired all of a sudden.


    ¡°Well¡­ Thanks for the help. I¡¯ll be¡­ Seeing you.¡± She forces a smile, which ends up looking more creepy than reassuring.


    ¡°Of course, Solomon. Go now, rest.¡± Adelar nods in affirmation.


    Solomon puts on her gloves and follows Lisa outside. They get into the car and go straight to the wolf¡¯s place. During the trip, she actually feels like someone who hasn¡¯t slept for almost two days. Maybe that¡¯ll set her mind straight.


    ¡°So like¡­¡± Solomon begins to say, concerned for her mental and physical health. ¡°What¡¯d I look like from outside during all that?¡±


    ¡°You looked focused, like you were in some real deep thought.¡± Lisa explains, looking ahead. ¡°We didn¡¯t want to bother you, but it got too worrying at the end there.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s just great¡­¡± Solomon sighs regretfully.


    After they arrive and enter Lisa¡¯s house, Solomon feels rather calm, all things considered. There¡¯s something oddly tranquil and comforting about the out of fashion rooms, furniture, and decorations.


    ¡°I don¡¯t care what you say, I¡¯m at least finding that spare mattress for you.¡± Lisa rushes upstairs.


    ¡°Hey Lisa¡­¡± Solomon says rather quietly, but loud enough for the wolf to hear it.


    ¡°Yeah?¡± She turns her head to look at the cat, halfway up the stairs.


    ¡°Mind if I use your shower?¡± Solomon asks sheepishly.


    ¡°¡®Course not.¡± Lisa smiles, looking relieved. ¡°Go ahead.¡±


    Solomon takes her time in the shower. She almost feels rude for doing that, but it¡¯s something she felt like she really needed. After all that testing with acid¡­ Maybe it¡¯s just the habit she picked up from her time as an apothecary. She would shower every day, it just made her feel better. This time however, the various expletives shouted by her host certainly make the whole experience feel different. She wonders what Lisa might be doing.


    Solomon eventually leaves the shower, dries herself and gets dressed. Exiting the bathroom, she sees Lisa carrying a mattress.


    ¡°Good timing there, where do you want me to put this?¡± Her expression turns from one of sheer annoyance at the mattress to a warm smile. The mattress looks clean and comfortable, two things she could certainly use.


    ¡°You can just leave it here, if it¡¯s not in the way too much.¡± Solomon yawns, tired, but grateful.


    Lisa nods and puts down the mattress in between the wall and the railing of the first floor, close to the door to Lisa¡¯s room and the bathroom. It definitely looks like it¡¯s in the way, but she doesn¡¯t seem to mind. The wolf takes a bedsheet, a pillow, and a comforter and quickly sets up a rudimentary bed for the cat.


    ¡°I¡¯d say that¡¯s good enough. Nothing fancy, but it works, yeah?¡± Lisa stands up, crossing her arms as she looks from the mattress to her guest.


    This story has been stolen from Royal Road. If you read it on Amazon, please report it


    Solomon merely nods in response, happy to have a place where she can sleep safely.


    ¡°Right then. Sleep well.¡± Lisa smiles at Solomon one more time before going to her room as the feline lies down.


    She falls asleep practically the instant she closes her eyes.


    In her dream, she takes a good look around. Already something she¡¯s not used to while dreaming. The setting is the same, a lifeless desert with the ruined remnants of what once was. She can really take in her surroundings now, wherever she looks, there is a strict lack of life. She notices that she can even see herself now, although she looks very different. Her entire body resembles no more than a shadow, save for her markings. ¡°Even in her dreams, I can¡¯t get rid of them?¡± She then realises, she looks just like¡­


    The figure. She can hear the sound of feet stomping the sand. Looking up from herself, she sees it in the distance, and it is rapidly approaching in a sprint.


    Horrified, she turns around to run. She runs, runs, and runs in the seemingly endlessly stretching desert landscape for what feels like hours, feeling ever relieved that in her dreams, she doesn¡¯t get tired. But this¡­ She can¡¯t wrap her head around why it changed so drastically.


    The figure hasn¡¯t caught up to her, but that may change very fast if she stops. During her fleeing, she sees the remains of what once was a city on the horizon, a true metropolis with massive buildings, as dead and derelict as everything else, however. Hoping that it might just be a place where she can hide, she makes her way there.


    In the city, she can immediately tell: no one has lived in what remains of the buildings for decades, or even centuries, many have crumbled and given in to the all-consuming force that is time.


    She goes to hide in an alleyway, finally stopping to think. At least she would, if it wasn¡¯t for the sound of ever-approaching footsteps.


    Solomon goes to the edge of the alleyway and peeks her head out to take a look¡­ Only to see the figure right in front of her. For just a second, she gets one close look at it. Its body is the very definition of dark, not a shred of light is reflected off of it, save for its eyes. She has no time to inspect it, however, as it reaches out its hand to grab her.


    Filled with terror, and fear for her life, she jolts awake and screams.


    Panting, she touches her chest and can feel her heart beat so rapidly, it feels like it just might jump out.


    She then looks at her hands, sure enough, the spirals are still there, their end still wrapped around her wrists. She has but one question about the experience: why?


    From out the door behind her comes Lisa, looking like she¡¯s ready to beat up or electrocute whoever caused Solomon to scream like that, only to see that there¡¯s no one else in the house other than them.


    ¡°What happened?¡± Lisa asks, now deeply concerned.


    ¡°Lisa¡­¡± The cat shakes her head. ¡°This will sound weird, but¡­ Have you been having weird dreams since your power¡¯s, well, awakening?¡± She turns to face her, guessing that she doesn¡¯t look any better than she did when she went to sleep.


    ¡°No?¡± Lisa raises an eyebrow.


    Solomon explains her dreams to her, including the latest one. Her friend listens intently, interested and worried for her.


    ¡°I see.¡± Lisa finally says. ¡°Sounds pretty fucked up if ya ask me.¡±


    Solomon rolls her eyes.


    ¡°So, you haven¡¯t had anything like this?¡± She asks, hoping that Lisa, for some reason, might have an answer that can help her.


    ¡°No. Nothing like this, nothing even similar to this.¡± Lisa crouches down next to Solomon. ¡±It¡¯s not often that I remember my dreams, but those that I do, sure ain¡¯t like this.¡±


    ¡°Why? Why is this happening?¡± Solomon says to no one in particular wishing for answers.


    ¡°I¡¯d say go see an expert, but I¡¯m not sure how much that would help.¡± Lisa puts a hand on her shoulder. ¡°In any case, you can talk to me about it if it makes you feel better.¡±


    The two spend a few more minutes talking, mostly about things that help sleep better. Various teas, dreamcatchers, even medicine, which Solomon would rather not have to take. At least she feels calmed enough to try and go back to sleep, hoping, praying that her dreams don¡¯t change for the worse.


    ¡°You need anything, let me know.¡± Lisa goes back to her room, giving Solomon a reassuring smile.


    Still tired, Solomon goes back to sleep.


    She is in the city again. The same, dead city she was in last time, the one where the figure almost touched her. She would rather not think about what might even happen if it manages to do that.


    She looks around frantically, but sees no figure. She goes inside one of the buildings and up the stairs hoping that up there, she¡¯ll be safe¡­


    A long while passes without anything happening to her. She looked out the nearby window for the figure, but didn¡¯t see it even once. She huddles in a corner, feeling somewhat relieved. ¡°What I¡¯d give to have normal dreams again¡­¡±


    The feeling doesn¡¯t last long, however, as she starts to hear the sound of footsteps from the bottom of the stairs.


    Panicked, she wastes no time, gets up, and goes up to the top of the building, the echoes of footsteps piercing the otherwise complete silence.


    On the roof, she goes to the edge and waits, wondering what she can do to stop the thing that follows her.


    The time between each footstep feels like an eternity, even those sounds are unnatural, something is just¡­ Wrong with them. Solomon can¡¯t quite put a finger on why, however. The best way to describe the sound of the footsteps is somewhere between someone barefoot and someone wearing wooden slippers a few sizes too big. Worse than that, the ever so quiet drip, drip, drip of the liquid coming from the figure¡¯s hands. A sound all too familiar to Solomon. At least there¡¯s no sizzling after the dripping in her dream.


    They grow louder and louder, culminating in her seeing those piercing green eyes coming up from the stairs. The dark figure looks, stares at her, straight into her soul as she looks back at it in abject horror. Slowly, it starts walking in her direction. Midway through, it reaches out with one hand towards her, and just then, Solomon makes the decision on a whim: she jumps.


    Right before she hits the ground, she wakes up in a cold sweat. To her surprise, despite everything, she feels rested, like she outsmarted the thing, even if just this once.


    She looks at the clock, which reads 5:00. She lies on the mattress, looking at the ceiling, thinking¡­ It went from a recurring nightmare to running from the same figure in a dead world. Some say that dreams have meanings, what could this possibly mean, if anything? They have to be related to these markings, she just knows that they are. They appeared at the same time, and now that the markings are fully developed, her dreams have gotten much, much worse. She¡¯ll have to figure it all out, one way or another.


    One week has passed. Solomon doesn¡¯t feel any closer to finding answers about why her powers appeared or her dreams. She even went to a so-called professional during that time and was told that she ¡°doubts herself¡± and that ¡°she thinks she¡¯s not good enough¡± and that¡¯s why she is having these dreams. She may get paid well, but that just felt like a waste of not only money, but time as well.


    Unlike her colleagues, she learned nothing new about her power either. Lisa tested how her electricity works on wet surfaces, it turns out that as long as it¡¯s wet, it can flow through, likely electrifying whoever¡¯s standing in it.


    Yaroslav figured out how to make the ice he creates smooth, rather than the typical, jagged freezing he can normally do. He¡¯s not sure what use it¡¯ll have just yet.


    Durazo has been focusing on concentrating his light, thinking that maybe it¡¯ll increase how fast it can heal wounds. It¡¯s anyone¡¯s guess, really.


    Solomon¡¯s dreams didn¡¯t get better. Every night, the same, chased by the figure, albeit in a slightly different setting, depending on where she flees. Sometimes, she can hide from it for a good while, but it always finds her. Her dreams invariably end the same, the figure gets very close to touching her. That stunt she pulled didn¡¯t end up helping her, in the dream, she came to lying on the street, the figure standing just above her. She didn¡¯t even have the time to process what was happening. The dreams may not have a physical effect on her, but they are beginning to take a toll on her mentally. Every time, she feels less and less rested.


    She tried soporifics, but they only make her fall asleep easier, not dream easier. She tried using a dreamcatcher, it had no effect whatsoever. During the week, she was free to return to her apartment, the investigation having been concluded. She didn¡¯t do that for another two days, after that, though. She didn¡¯t feel easy returning, but whoever was out to get her seems to have gotten just the scare needed not to attempt to murder her again.


    What has really gotten under Solomon¡¯s skin however, is people. Keeping up the front as a rather inelegant investigation company, she has really become tired of dealing with people¡¯s comparatively petty problems. Why does it matter that you can hear the neighbour¡¯s music ever so slightly one time? Isn¡¯t it illegal to report your teenage son as missing only because he went to the shop after school rather than straight home? The nerve of some people¡­


    She really wanted to figure something out about her power, like the others did. Something new, anything! But try as she might, it¡¯s always the same. Her marking lights up, acid secretes. On an occasion when she was particularly annoyed by the lack of progress, she had a strange thought. She¡¯s immune to the effects of the acid, but how much? She let her hand simmer in the liquid for minutes, no adverse effect was reported. Then she had the strangest idea: what could it taste like? She shot that down mere seconds after coming up with it. Sure, she¡¯s immune, but some questions are better left unanswered.


    In only a few days, they will go to the port, Solomon isn¡¯t sure what to expect from it. Who exactly will be there? Either way, the time is fast approaching. It doesn¡¯t help that Adelar¡¯s anonymous informant hasn¡¯t had new information yet either. She wouldn¡¯t be surprised to hear about that person¡¯s demise if they were found out.


    Overall, Solomon has accepted her role in this company, for now. Feeling rather paranoid about strangers, she grew closer with her colleagues, especially with Lisa. She felt like she could truly count on her, even more than before, just having someone to complain and tell her feelings to felt exhilarating and wonderfully refreshing.


    She decided: whatever it takes, she will have answers. To her power, to how they came to be, to everything, all in due time.


    The day has finally come. Tonight, Solomon and her colleagues will be at the Port of Moore to at the very least observe, possibly intercept. She looked into the history of the port, which seems to be a perfectly ordinary, if unremarkable port for small, arriving ships. There¡¯s just one thing off about it: it hasn¡¯t been officially used for years.


    Before the sun sets, they set out to scout the area.


    Arriving, Solomon is surprised by the condition of the ¡°port¡±. She herself wouldn¡¯t even call it that, it¡¯s just a rickety pier that goes out to the sea. No self-respecting, legally sanctioned organisation would stoop so low as to use a place like this for any business. The four stay a safe distance away from the pier, looking out for anyone or anything approaching. They are shielded by rocks and bushes from sight. The sun has set, no sign of activity. Solomon isn¡¯t sure what she¡¯ll do if this turns out to be a red herring.


    ¡°Hey, Father¡­¡± Solomon breaks the silence, albeit with a whisper.


    ¡°Yes?¡± Durazo responds politely.


    ¡°Do you think you could bless us?¡± The feline asks innocently, which seems to thoroughly entertain an otherwise bored-looking Lisa.


    ¡°Well¡­¡± The ex-priest says after a long moment of silence.


    ¡°Would that even count?¡± Yaroslav proposes. ¡°Since you know¡­ You¡¯re not a priest anymore?¡±


    ¡°He¡¯s still pretty holy if ya ask me.¡± Lisa shrugs with a smug grin.


    ¡°Seriously¡­¡± Durazo sighs, burying his face in his palm. ¡°That¡¯s not how any of that works, but I guess I¡¯ll look into it another time.¡± He says with just a hint of offence in his voice.


    ¡°Sorry!¡± Solomon says shyly, checking on the pier. No movement, nothing.


    ¡°That reminds me¡­¡± Yaroslav says in a tone that Solomon is very familiar with: he¡¯s going to tell a story. ¡°The boys and I were once sent out to demolish an entire village¡¯s worth of houses near Siberia.¡±


    ¡°Here we go again.¡± Lisa chuckles.


    ¡°Come on, Lisa, I know you love my stories.¡± The bear sits down by the large rock and begins recounting his experiences, all the while the others take turns looking out for anything at the pier.


    ¡°They were brand new houses, I tell you.¡± Yaroslav goes on. ¡°It felt like a total waste of materials, that¡¯s what was in the contract. And there was this one biiiig steel mill in the middle of the woods¡­¡± He spreads his arms for emphasis, Solomon gets the point: it was pretty big. ¡°Those houses were all around it, close by. Some even looked lived-in, which was just weird.¡±


    ¡°Oooh, colour me intrigued!¡± Says Lisa, looking thoroughly interested.


    ¡°You would be, Lisa.¡±


    ¡°That place was weird too.¡± Yaroslav continues. ¡°We got a few contracts for it as well, but they were all cancelled before it could be demolished.¡± He chuckles, the kind of chuckle that tells Solomon that he used to be pretty upset at the topic, but now it just makes for a story to tell. ¡°Once, we were about halfway to the mill when we got a call from boss to come back.¡± He laughs heartily. ¡°Oh, the boys and I were not happy!¡±


    ¡°Not to ruin the fun¡­¡± Durazo chimes in. ¡°But keep it quiet.¡±


    ¡°Yeah, yeah.¡± The bear says in more of a whisper.


    Solomon checks her phone, 22:12. They have been waiting for a good while.


    ¡°You know, Yaro, there¡¯s one thing I can¡¯t quite figure out.¡± Lisa begins to say, rubbing her chin, looking exaggeratedly deep in thought, glancing to the side. ¡°How did you get reminded of that?¡± She looks at him with a raised eyebrow.


    ¡°Oh, one of the contractors looked similar to Father.¡± He explains. ¡°Except with black fur, not brown. Same face and all!¡±


    ¡°Brilliant.¡± Lisa smirks as Durazo makes a deep sigh.


    ¡°There!¡± Solomon gasps and gestures to the others to look, they all fall silent.


    Walking towards the pier, a figure dressed in a white hooded robe, the hood obscuring their face. ¡°Finally¡­¡± The figure stays there, standing by a tree.


    A short while later, Solomon can see a small rowboat approaching. Three people are inside it, all looking to be in suits, but she can¡¯t quite make out the faces. The hooded figure then goes to properly hide behind the tree, watching the boat as well.


    Solomon waits, and waits for the boat to painstakingly get closer to the pier, but not quite close enough to dock.


    Suddenly, the hooded figure steps out from behind the tree. Someone on the boat points at them, Solomon can hear them talk, but can¡¯t make out what they are saying. It certainly sounds like a confrontation, however.


    ¡°Bask in HIS light!¡± Shouts a masculine voice coming from the hooded figure, who then throws something bright and shining at the boat.


    One of the people on the boat jumps out into the water, another grabs a rectangular object in a burlap sack and throws it onto the pier. The third one watches in confusion as the object the figure threw lands in the boat, and erupts in an explosion. The boat is engulfed in flames, the other two are off, ablaze. The one that was blown up doesn¡¯t surface, the one that threw the sack does, and is met with another glowing object, now thrown straight into their face. What remains is a headless body floating in the water.


    ¡°Fuckin¡¯ hell!¡± Lisa remarks softly, taken aback.


    The four watch the scene unfold: it¡¯s worse than Solomon ever could have imagined. She can deal with her dreams to an extent, because that¡¯s all they ever are, dreams. This however, is very real.


    ¡°This¡­ May be above our pay grade. And that¡¯s saying something.¡± She whispers to the others, she hears Durazo quietly recite a prayer.


    The last person who was on the boat, and jumped off first, gets out of the water and makes a run for whatever¡¯s in the burlap sack. He swiftly picks it up and turns to run from the hooded figure. Another glowing object lands close to him and explodes on impact. ¡°What even are those?¡± The one carrying the sack loses his footing from the explosion and throws it far away from him and the fire. He then gets up and charges at the hooded figure, tearing at his robe.


    His hood comes off, Solomon can now see the face of a black kite, which she can tell even from a distance. His robe is torn at the right arm, she spots something that makes her heart skip a beat: orange markings resembling fire. ¡°Just like the ones on Adelar¡­¡± The kite claws at his assailant, eventually overpowering him. After a kick to the knee, the person in the suit falls to the ground. Solomon thinks, they have the chance to save this person, whoever he is, but she¡¯s unsure if they should. ¡°We could possibly get some information out of him!¡±


    They have no time to act, however, the black kite takes a few steps back, he then lobs another glowing object right at the person on the ground. There is but a yelp that is heard before the flames consume him.


    Solomon pants heavily at the sight, Durazo turns to calm her down.


    ¡°Whatever¡¯s in that sack¡­¡± Lisa starts to speak. ¡°We need to get it.¡±


    The others look at her, perplexed.


    ¡°Did you even see what he did to those guys?¡± Yaroslav asks, a little louder than he likely means to.


    ¡°There¡¯s four of us. Don¡¯t you think we can take care of one birdie?¡±


    Solomon doesn¡¯t understand how Lisa can be so confident at a time like this.


    ¡°¡®Ere¡¯s what we do.¡± Lisa continues. ¡°We get him to walk into that shallow area, I go there, I electrify it, and down he goes!¡± She explains as if that plan is even remotely simple to execute in practice.


    ¡°The blasphemous text¡­¡± Solomon hears the black kite talk. ¡°Shall burn.¡± He says, readying in another object.


    ¡°And how do we get him to do that?¡± Solomon asks quickly.


    ¡°Shine your light, your holiness.¡± Lisa glances at Durazo.


    The ex-priest looks reluctant, but they have no time to think about it too much. Durazo stands up, a light coming out from his palm. It blinds the black kite enough to make him miss his throw entirely, the shining object instead falling into the water where it no longer glows.


    ¡°Now what?¡± He turns to face Lisa.


    ¡°Now, you distract ¡®em while I go down to the water.¡± Lisa then steps out from the cover of the bushes and the rocks, sneaking down. Solomon watches as the black kite readjusts himself and looks to the direction where the light came from. The things she does for the cause¡­


    ¡°Over here, connard!¡± She shouts and waves her hand, leaving the cover as well. Durazo ducks back down to the cover of the bushes.


    The black kite looks at her, readies an object, and throws it into the bushes where she came from. She hears Durazo yell, then sees him and the bear leave the cover, Yaroslav in the process of putting out Durazo with his frost. ¡°This was such a bad idea¡­¡±


    ¡°You. You use magic as well?¡± The black kite asks. ¡°Yet you do not worship HIM¡­ Blasphemers will burn by HIS will!¡± He shouts, and makes a throwing motion. Solomon can see many, small glowing objects, causing a small blast wherever they land. Their cover is now completely covered in flames. Quickly, the black kite prepares another and throws it at Solomon. Yaroslav comes from the side and catches it, cooling it off with his frost, surprised by what it is.


    ¡°A rock? That¡¯s it?¡± Says Solomon.


    ¡°FOOLS!¡± The black kite laughs, picking up another rock from the ground. Durazo tries to blind him again with his light, but the black kite moves out of the way. They haven¡¯t gotten him closer to the water, if anything, he only walked farther away from it.


    Solomon then gets an idea. Maybe he is from a place where there are more Mystic Ones¡­ A place where people are familiar with markings.


    She takes the chance, and takes off her gloves, holding the back of her hand towards the black kite.


    ¡°Impossible!¡± His eyes go wide as he gasps, taking a step back.


    ¡°That did it.¡±


    Wherever he belongs, they know about her power. Maybe he is the key to getting some answers at last!


    Solomon makes her markings light up, and shows them off to him, her hands dripping with acid.


    ¡°Perish, monster!¡± He throws a cluster of rocks in her direction. She moves to the left, then the right. Miraculously, only one of them hit her, but it doesn¡¯t ignite her. In fact, she hardly even feels the heat from it. Yaroslav, on the other hand¡­ He is ablaze and is trying to put himself out.


    It¡¯s clear to Solomon that this bird is terribly afraid of her, or rather, her power. She thinks back to her dreams for just a moment, and charges at the black kite with an outstretched arm.


    He backs away, picking up dirt and throwing that at her. It has very little effect, no more than having a piece of ember hit her, rather than a violent explosion. The bird steps back one step. Two steps. Five steps. He then begins running from her, which tells Solomon that he must know a thing or two about her power, things she can¡¯t wait to hear after Lisa knocks him out. She looks in her direction, Lisa is almost at the water, so is the black kite. The wolf looks decidedly less confident, more stressed about the situation, but she pushes on. More cinders are thrown at Solomon, to no effect.


    ¡°Begone, demon!¡± The kite says, becoming more and more desperate.


    One step¡­ Two steps¡­


    Splash. Crackle.


    Right as the black kite steps into the water, it is electrified. His body convulses and unceremoniously falls onto his back into the water. Solomon breathes a sigh of relief, surprised that she¡¯s not even singed. Her colleagues took more of the fire, but nothing Durazo can¡¯t fix easily. ¡°Time to ask some questions¡­¡±


    Suddenly, the black kite¡¯s body lights ablaze, burning brighter and brighter until nothing but ashes remain. With it, the fires he created are also put out.


    ¡°What¡­ Was that?¡± She asks, Yaroslav and Durazo now behind her, likely similarly confused.


    ¡°This has to be the magic¡¯s doing¡­¡± Durazo concludes.


    ¡°What happened?¡± Solomon hears Lisa¡¯s voice as she runs over, only to discover the now wet ashes of the black kite.


    ¡°I¡­ I killed him?¡± She questions.


    Solomon looks over at her, and nods, looking grievously irritated. Lisa grits her teeth, throws her cane to the direction where they came from and curses.


    ¡°It was too much¡­ I can¡¯t bloody believe it!¡± She says and pouches a nearby tree. She then shakes her hand in pain.


    ¡°Well Lisa, at least we got whatever¡¯s in that sack.¡± Solomon says in an attempt to calm down the wolf. ¡°We better go see what it is now.¡±


    Solomon looks around. The boat has since sunken, the headless body is still floating in the water, she can see the charred remains of the one whose knee was broken. The third person is nowhere to be seen. All they left behind is whatever is in that sack¡­


    After Yaroslav and Durazo express their complaints about being set on fire, the four walk to the sack.


    ¡°Go ahead, Lisa.¡± Solomon says with a little more sass than she intended.


    The wolf picks up the object in the sack, even just by observing, Solomon can tell that it¡¯s rather heavy, the one who threw it must have had good physique to throw it so far.


    Lisa takes it out from the sack¡­ It is a book. A very, very old-looking book at that. There is something written on the cover, but it is in a language that none of them even recognise. Lisa opens the book, inside it is text written in the same language. They each take a look, but no one can say anything about it. There are also some small pictures drawn on some of the pages, but they don¡¯t seem to resemble anything.


    ¡°It¡¯s like looking at a Rorshach test¡­¡± Durazo remarks.


    ¡°Well, looks like our job is done here, mates.¡± Says Lisa, looking thoroughly confused. ¡°...I guess. Let¡¯s go back to HQ.¡±


    Solomon nods in agreement. She didn¡¯t get any answers, but she sure has a lot more questions all of a sudden.

 Chapter 5 - Remnant

    Solomon may not show it, but the scene at Port of Moore left her quite distraught. Four people dead, one by their hands. Who was that black kite? Why did he want to destroy that book? Solomon hopes to get answers to at least one of these questions back at the station. She would have preferred to interrogate the bird, but it can¡¯t be helped now. She doesn¡¯t blame Lisa for what happened, at least she has the option not to just destroy with her power.


    The four return to the station, Adelar already waiting for them. They sit down at the meeting hall table and reveal the book to him.


    ¡±That¡¯s what you found?¡± He asks, taking a good look at the cover, then opening it. ¡°A book?¡± Clearly, he¡¯s unable to read it. ¡°Peculiar.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s not all.¡± Solomon begins to say. ¡°Three people brought this book to the port.¡±


    ¡°Oh?¡± Adelar lifts his head from the book. ¡°Anything you could find out from them?¡±


    ¡°They¡¯re kind of dead for that.¡± Lisa speaks up in a grim tone. ¡°There was this one guy in a white robe, Blazing One, like you. He blew them up.¡±


    ¡°Another Mystic One?¡± The eagle shakes his head. Solomon guesses that he didn¡¯t think they would have to face one so soon. ¡°What happened to him?¡±


    ¡°Yeeeeah¡­¡± Lisa glances to the side with slight guilt in her voice. ¡°We¡¯ll need to work on control over the strength of the magic.¡±


    ¡°I see.¡± Adelar sighs deeply. ¡°No matter, what you found is¡­ Most peculiar. A book we cannot read. I will have to report this to my informant, this could be big news! From a clue, we now have¡­ This.¡±


    ¡°What now then?¡± Durazo asks, clutching his cross necklace.


    ¡°Once my informant gets back to me, we¡¯ll see.¡± Adelar gently closes the book. ¡°Until then, we¡¯ll work on your magic as much as we can.¡± He stands up, picks up the book, and puts it inside a locker.


    ¡°That thing better not be cursed or somethin¡¯.¡± Lisa remarks. ¡°We¡¯ve got enough to worry about already.


    ¡°I can safely say that you can¡¯t do curses with magic.¡± Adelar responds, searching for something in his pocket. ¡°As far as I know¡­¡± He adds, more quietly, but the others clearly hear it.


    ¡°Nice.¡± Lisa scoffs. ¡°Fuckin¡¯ beautiful.¡±


    ¡°I could stay here and guard it.¡± Yaroslav offers.


    ¡°No need.¡± Adelar takes a key out of his pocket and locks the locker. ¡°It may be important to them, but I don¡¯t think they put a tracker in it.¡±


    ¡°Who are ¡°they¡± anyway?¡± Solomon asks. ¡°What do we know about them?¡±


    ¡°Not a whole lot, unfortunately.¡± Adelar steps back towards the table. ¡°But they have Mystic Ones too, for certain. And now, this third faction¡­¡± He takes out a napkin from a different pocket and wipes his forehead. ¡°That worries me to no end.¡±


    ¡°One wants the book back.¡± Durazo states. ¡°One wants to destroy it. And now we¡¯ll just have it at the station?¡±


    ¡°My org isn¡¯t well known.¡± Adelar snaps back, in somewhat of a regretful tone. ¡°You weren¡¯t followed either. It shouldn¡¯t be easy for either of them to find us.¡±


    ¡°If we find the station burned to the ground tomorrow¡­¡± Lisa brings up the topic. ¡°Don¡¯t hold it against us, yeah?¡±


    ¡°Anyway¡­¡± Adelar shoots a disapproving look towards the wolf. ¡°This was more than enough for you today. Go and rest, I¡¯ll need you in your best condition tomorrow.¡± He says in what Solomon would call his ¡°business voice¡±. ¡°You are dismissed.¡±


    They all nod and get up from the table. Solomon, however, has one particular question she wants answered.


    ¡°Adelar¡­¡± She says in a low voice after the others leave.


    ¡°I said you were dismissed.¡± The eagle responds, looking tired, taking out some papers from a drawer.


    ¡°No!¡± She rebuts in an assertive tone, catching the eagle by surprise. ¡°I¡­ Really need some closure, Adelar.¡±


    Adelar turns his head, looking somewhat annoyed, but understanding.


    ¡°That bat¡­¡± Solomon goes on. ¡±His markings, they were red! Why? Why were they read? What does red mean?¡± She pleads.


    ¡°Think about it.¡± Adelar¡¯s words admittedly make Solomon a little upset at first. ¡°What¡¯s the first thing that comes to mind? It¡¯s not roses, I¡¯ll tell you that much.¡±


    ¡°Blood¡­?¡± Solomon guesses, albeit pretty confidently.


    ¡°That¡¯s right.¡± Adelar turns back to whatever he was doing with the papers, having answered her question.


    ¡°Blood magic¡­¡± Solomon shakes her head. ¡°H-how does that even work?¡±


    ¡°We all have our techniques.¡± Adelar explains. ¡°Mine is different from that kite¡¯s, for example. Who knows how that bat uses his magic? Who¡¯s to say he only has one?¡±


    All of a sudden, Solomon doesn¡¯t feel very confident in her abilities. She saw her colleagues use their magic in relatively different ways, and then there¡¯s her. She can produce acid. That¡¯s it, as far as she knows. And if new opponents arise and that¡¯s still all she can do¡­


    ¡°Thanks.¡± Solomon forces a smile, not exactly having gotten the closure she wanted. ¡°Let us know when your informant finds out anything!¡± She says, turning to leave.


    ¡°Take care.¡± Adelar says in a cautious voice. ¡°I¡¯ll try my best to teach you what I can.¡±


    And so, Solomon waited for Adelar to get back to them about any new information he may have learned. One day turned into two days, which turned into three days, which turned into a week, which turned into a month. One whole month has passed before anyone came forward with new information.


    Solomon wasn¡¯t merely sitting around either, she looked into the possible language of the book, but she couldn¡¯t find anything at all, which only made her have many, many more questions about the book and the organisation it belongs to.


    During the month, they spent more and more time training, honing their powers. Solomon could see the progress all around her. She could see Durazo¡¯s light get brighter and more soothing, more comforting when shone at someone, she could see its healing power whenever any of them were injured. She also noticed him clutching his cross necklace more often, which she didn¡¯t question, given his background.


    She saw Yaroslav eventually snap a metal pipe in half due to how fragile his frost could make various objects. On hotter days, he could even keep their training basement cool, which she found welcome.


    She saw Lisa experiment more with her electricity, eventually gaining better control over where she could direct the flow of said electricity to an extent. She saw the pride that Adelar took in each and every one of them, how happy the fact that his choices seemingly paid off made him, and how much joy he took in teaching them whatever he could, mostly about control.


    She saw all this progress, but not with herself. No matter what she tried, no matter how much she concentrated, no matter how much she listened to the others for advice, there only ever seemed to be two things she could do. Either have her hands produce acid, or not. She didn¡¯t understand what the point of her magic was. She could see all the others have plenty of practical use other than destruction, but not hers. Adelar told her that it is believed that all of magic originates from nature in some way. Acid does indeed exist in nature, but it does more than destroy. It¡¯s a part of many organisms, so what was she doing wrong to only be able to destroy?


    On a more personal level, Solomon tried ways to make the nightmares stop. Over the course of the month, she tried everything from methods that reportedly work, like talking about her dreams and rewriting the ending, to going as far as taking special medication for it. Of course, nothing worked. Every time, it invariably ended with the figure catching up to her and reaching out to touch her, every time, she was horrified that that time just might be the time that it did. And that figure¡­ It didn¡¯t even always chase her. Sometimes, it would attempt to seemingly lure or call her over, but she knew better than to do that.


    She was very much aware that she was dreaming, so she tried methods that would at least wake her up from a dream. She would call out for help, read, spin around, but nothing worked, other than briefly confusing the thing in her dream at best. In this last week especially, it has started to take a serious toll on her mentally, questioning if there even was a way for her to truly escape it.


    She kept the night she was attacked in her apartment in mind. No such thing has happened since. No one tried to break into the station to take the book or harm any of them either. At the very least, she found that comforting to an extent.


    And that bat¡­ She kept him in mind more than she wanted. The fact that she didn¡¯t know what group he belonged to didn¡¯t sit well with her either. Blood magic, whatever it could be used for, she¡¯d rather not find out.


    The only thing keeping her sane during this time was her colleagues. No, not just colleagues, but friends she grew even closer with. Especially Lisa. They were in this together, and that made her feel better in her situation, she felt like she wasn¡¯t alone, precisely because she wasn¡¯t. She didn¡¯t have anyone else here in Britain, it felt comforting to have people she can trust by her side. Even the times when she called her parents, she mostly needed to lie about what she was doing and how she was feeling. She didn¡¯t like it at all, but she figured that it would keep them safe.


    Solomon wakes up after a particularly bad encounter with the figure. She could almost feel it touch her that time, even after she woke up. The last thing she needs is lasting marks from these experiences, which she hopes it can¡¯t do to her. Though, she could consider her spirals lasting marks, in a way.


    She gets dressed and goes out to the station. Down below, Lisa, Yaroslav, and Durazo are already there, chatting about new things they discovered. Solomon never considered herself envious, but she really, really wants to find out something new about her power for once.


    ¡°Everyone!¡± Says a very enthusiastic Adelar as he steps into the basement. ¡°We finally have a new lead.¡±


    Solomon¡¯s eyes shoot open, from awe rather than fear, for the first time in what feels like forever. She rushes over to the eagle.


    ¡°Tell me everything, boss.¡± She says, lightly tapping her feet, her tail noticeably swaying from side to side.


    Lisa giggles, seeing Solomon get so excited over the mere mention of news.


    ¡°My informant has found a location where he reported observed suspicious activity.¡± He produces a small flame in his palm, then grasps it, extinguishing it. ¡°I will need at least two of you to check it out.¡±


    Solomon waits eagerly for him to continue. She could potentially find out so much!


    ¡°The Hilton Amusement Park.¡± Adelar goes on. ¡°That is where activity has been reported.¡±


    ¡°Hasn¡¯t that place been defunct for like fifty years now?¡± Lisa asks with a questioning look.


    ¡°That¡¯s the place.¡± Adelar snaps his fingers, his casual manner encouraging Solomon.


    ¡°How do you know that it isn¡¯t just some hoodlums hanging out in a closed down amusement park?¡± Durazo asks dismissively.


    ¡°Hoodlums don¡¯t wear suits.¡± The eagle explains with a smirk. ¡°That¡¯s the extent of what we know about their appearance. Any volunteers?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll be going.¡± Solomon says without a moment of hesitation. Strange setting or not, she will have to look into it. ¡°And I¡¯m taking Father with me.¡±


    Durazo¡¯s eyes widen in surprise.


    ¡°In case something happens to me, I¡¯ll need someone who can help.¡± She eyes his white markings before turning back to Adelar. ¡°How many people were reported to be there?¡±


    ¡°No more than two.¡± Says the eagle. ¡°Whatever they are hiding there, if anything, it must not be that important if they only have two people guarding it.¡±


    ¡°The rest of you can stay then. We¡¯ll handle this.¡± Solomon says confidently. Maybe she is just too eager for answers, maybe Lisa¡¯s confidence just rubbed off on her in the past month.


    ¡°Have you gone mad?¡± Lisa chimes in. ¡°That¡¯s two people, yes, but remember what it took just to take one down?¡±


    ¡°Of course I do. I showed him my hands and he was terrified.¡± She says, causing Lisa to frown. ¡°Whatever group these guys belong to, I have a guess that they know more about our powers than I do. We can do this!¡± Solomon answers, giving Lisa a reassuring smile.


    The wolf relents, but doesn¡¯t seem to approve.


    ¡°Tell me the location as well though.¡± She taps her can against the floor. ¡°If things go south, I¡¯ll be there.¡±


    ¡°I know you can do it.¡± Yaroslav says with a laugh, crossing his arms. Lisa taps her cane again, this time against his foot. ¡°But of course, I¡¯ll go there too if you need me to!¡±


    ¡°Well in that case¡­¡± Adelar begins to say. ¡°I¡¯ll need you to keep up the front.¡± He turns towards the bear and the wolf, much to their displeasure.


    Durazo acquiesces to Solomon¡¯s request, giving her a trusting look.


    The two of them then go out to the service vehicle, type in the coordinates and leave.


    The amusement park is quite far away, having to drive past rather large wheat fields. Solomon wonders why anyone would build such a place this far away from any settlement.


    On the way, she looks into the park¡¯s history. It apparently used to be somewhat popular before abruptly being shut down due to the changing of safety laws and the subsequent lack of funds to pay the workers¡¯ restitution, severance, and lawsuits.


    ¡°Mustn¡¯t have been the best place to work at¡­¡± Solomon remarks, more to herself. ¡°How should we approach the site?¡±


    ¡°We should keep quiet, I¡¯d say.¡± Durazo recommends. ¡°Have a look around, find out what they¡¯re up to, but we¡¯ll see once we arrive.¡± He glances at the feline with a warm smile. ¡°I¡¯ll try to keep you safe as much as I can.¡±


    ¡°Thanks, Father.¡± Solomon chuckles softly. ¡°I have acidic hands, I feel like that can help me when it¡¯s needed.¡±


    Despite that, Solomon doesn¡¯t want to use her magic on people. The sheer pain that it must inflict¡­ She¡¯s just not someone who wants to do that.


    The park is soon enough on the horizon, or rather, the trees that surround it are. They don¡¯t obscure the rather tall buildings that are situated in the park, however. Solomon reads that the former owner had the trees planted all around the park to ¡°give something back to nature¡±. That move proved rather controversial, as the people that planted them apparently just stole seeds and saplings to do so, on the owner¡¯s orders to further cut costs. ¡°This place was a mess from start to finish, wasn¡¯t it?¡±


    They can see the remnants of a parking lot, now new trees and plants sprouting from the cracks of the old concrete. It will still serve its intended purpose one, hopefully, last time. Arriving at the destination, the two get out and walk into the decidedly unimpressive artificial forest that was set up many years before. The grey clouds in the sky makes Solomon expect rain.


    They can see the fenced off perimeter of the park, a large metal sign above the former entrance reading ¡°Hilton Amusement Park - Where Fun is Our Motto!¡±.


    Solomon rolls her eyes at the sight.


    The top of the fence is protected with barbed wire. She wonders if it was put there before or after the park was shut down.


    Finding an entrance proves easy, going to the right of the main gate, there is a hole cut into the fence big enough to fit two people in at once. Solomon looks around for guards or cameras, she doesn¡¯t see either. People really don¡¯t seem that upset about the park having been shut down. She looks at Durazo as if to ask him if he¡¯s ready, he nods.


    ¡°Allez.¡± Says Solomon, leading the way inside.


    She feels as if she just stepped into one of her dreams with how decrepit the park looks.


    The park itself is rather small and has as much cramped into it as the owner could afford, likely choosing the cheaper option every time. They could see parts of the attractions from the outside, but now they can really take in how run down the park became. Graffiti and overgrown plants everywhere. Time and vandalism have not been kind to it in the least.


    Looking to the main gate, there is a collapsed, or possibly wrecked, ticket booth. Just behind it, there is a building no more than twenty metres in length and thirty in width. The wooden parts look rotten, the sign above its entrance once must have read ¡°House of Horrors¡±, but all that remains from the letters is ¡°use of Hors¡±. The building looks so old and derelict, Solomon doubts there is anyone sane who would be hiding in a place like that. Opposite to the ¡°House of Horrors¡± is what once was a poorly disguised casino, evident by the rusted slot machines seen through the broken and collapsed walls along claw machines and other games.


    ¡°You know, I kind of see why people mustn¡¯t have been so fond of this place.¡± Solomon says to Durazo.


    To the left of the casino are smaller stands likely used for games to win prizes, some still standing, most are in pieces, either having collapsed or parts having been stolen. Upon closer inspection, they see that the nails have been taken out of the collapsed ones.


    ¡°How desperate do you have to be to steal from a place like this?¡± Durazo thinks out loud. One of the remaining stands has targets, meant to have balls thrown at. They are nailed upright so hard that they are among the more stable man made things in the park. Durazo pities whatever unfortunate soul must have lost their money at this park.


    Beyond the stands, there is what could be called the main attraction: a carousel once housing twelve metal horses to ride on. Of the twelve, three are lying on the ground and one of them is missing. Time has been especially rough to this metal attraction, Solomon can hardly see any surface on it that hasn¡¯t been rusted. The structure itself looks stable, as if whoever built it actually put proper effort into building it. The decades of having to endure the elements left the metal horses in a terrible condition, streaks of dark brown running down their reddish bodies. The same is true for the eyes.


    Solomon admittedly feels a little creeped out by the former park so far, though it may just be an underlying fear of dilapidation due to recent events. The two don¡¯t hang around for too long at this particular attraction. Beyond the carousel are benches and more stands, the benches not even having backrests. They don¡¯t look like they were designed to have them either.


    Opposite to the stands is a kids¡¯ ride, a small train running on a track with the bare minimum amount of bends to be called a ride. Rusted like the rest of the park. ¡°Why wouldn¡¯t they relocate this to somewhere else? Seems like such a waste¡­¡±


    With a crash of thunder, it begins to rain, nothing but a slight drizzle, however. There is one last building standing all the way in the corner of the park. It is in remarkably good condition compared to the rest of the attractions, definitely must have been built after the park was shut down. A sign above the entrance door reads ¡°Hall of Mirrors¡±. The building looks stable, or at least stable enough to enter and not be afraid of the roof coming down. There are two doors at the front: one labelled ¡°exit¡± with a sign next to it reading ¡°Staff and permitted personnel only.¡± It is locked. The other one seems to be the entrance and is slightly ajar.


    They go to the latter door, a pile of rubble is all that remains of what was once a ticket booth by it.


    Solomon pushes the door open, the inside is exactly as advertised: a maze of mirrors. Some of them look faded, others seem to be in prime condition. After being abandoned for this long, nothing should look as clean as some of those mirrors. They venture into the maze, turning one corner, then another, seeing their reflections on every wall, sometimes deformed due to the surface shape of particular mirrors.


    Click.


    To their surprise, the building is lit up by flood light-like lights fixed to the ceiling of the building. The light is blindingly bright, the mirrors only make it worse, forcing Solomon to close her eyes.


    ¡°Father?¡± She says, holding out her hands, then feels Durazo grab them.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry.¡± He responds in a reassuring tone. ¡°I can see.¡±


    His words leave Solomon puzzled for a moment, but connects his being a Bright One to seeing in bright environments.


    She then hears Durazo gasp.


    ¡°Cameras!¡± He says in a voice that tells Solomon that he¡¯s trying, and failing, to stay calm. She tries to open her eyes, but it¡¯s no use. It¡¯s too bright.


    Cameras¡­ Someone is certainly here, and worse, knows that they are here. Solomon holds onto his hand tightly putting her trust in the ex-priest. She bumps into a mirror here and there, despite her efforts not to, seeing nothing but the unpleasantly bright darkness just behind her eyelids. She feels herself turning left, right, right again, going straight, then right again, and one more left.


    Before she knows it, they are out of the maze. It may be a maze, but it¡¯s just as cheap as the rest of the park, thankfully.


    As they exit the maze, Solomon hears a door slam shut. Taking one peek to the right, there is a door with an exit sign over it that Solomon can barely make out. Durazo guides Solomon there and tries to open the door.


    ¡°It¡¯s locked¡­¡± Durazo says in an uncharacteristically upset tone.


    Solomon removes her gloves.


    ¡°I got the key right here.¡± She states, for once, feeling like her power is useful for something. It¡¯s still destruction, but it¡¯s the kind that benefits them.


    She lets Durazo guide her hand to the lock. Placing it on the door, the marking on her hand lights up. Within seconds, the lock dissolves and the door opens without any more resistance.


    This book is hosted on another platform. Read the official version and support the author''s work.


    ¡°No one¡¯s on the other side.¡± Says Duzaro.


    They go through the door, Solomon closes it behind them, at least as much as a door without a lock can close. She opens her eyes to finally see, briefly seeing a hallway lit by lights that are not blindingly bright.


    Click.


    The lights switch off, plunging the building into darkness. Solomon usually has no trouble seeing in darker areas, but the lights temporarily, she hopes, made her unable to see well in the dark.


    ¡°I have discovered the drawback of this¡­ Light vision, let¡¯s call it.¡± Durazo says in a regretful tone. ¡°I can¡¯t see a thing.¡±


    Solomon turns towards him with a frown that he can¡¯t even see. He lights up his palms, shining that soothing light of his straight onto her.


    ¡°But I guess there are work-arounds.¡± He moves his hand around, trying his best to illuminate the narrow hallway.


    To the right, there is a door labelled exit. They already tried to open it from the outside, it was locked. To the left, three doors. Two at the right side of the hallway, one at the end of it, the latter one being a sturdy, metal door.


    Durazo lights the way to the first door. Its label has long faded, its lock rusted shut. Solomon dissolves the lock and opens the door to the room, which looks like a janitor¡¯s closet, old tools litter the floor and shelves.


    ¡°Nothing of interest here.¡± Solomon remarks, quietly.


    They go to the next door, Durazo¡¯s light piercing the darkness. That door is in a similar condition. Solomon opens it as well, the room looks like a dust-covered manager¡¯s office, complete with a desk and filing cabinets.


    The two have a quick look around, the cabinets are empty, save for the plethora of unpaid bills, formal complaints, and warnings. That leaves but one door.


    The two go to the sturdy metal door, ready to go in. ¡°Whoever is here¡­ Has to be in there.¡± Solomon looks at Durazo, who nods at her. She doesn¡¯t even check if the door is locked, she places her hand on it and lights up her marking. Despite being sturdier than the others, it melts just as easily.


    She pushes the door open and takes a step back. Durazo shines his light into the room, no one comes out. Solomon steps inside and sees a lightswitch. She flicks it on, the room lights up. Despite their suspicions, no one seems to be in the room.


    Looking around, they see large metal cabinets, a wall full of monitor screens, only four of them are turned on, showing the room with the mirrors from four different angles. Below the screens is a control panel with a radio next to it.


    Solomon takes a few more steps inside, carefully looking around. She goes to inspect the radio when she suddenly hears a cabinet door fly open.


    A jab to her side sends her stumbling to the wall. She tries to reorient herself, but another cabinet falls on her, pinning her to the ground.


    She looks up to see a grey goat with streaks of white on his hands, the one who pushed the cabinet onto her. Looking to the side, she sees Durazo already engaged in a fistfight with the one who punched her, a tiger. She sees pale blue markings on his hands. Both of them are wearing suits, the goat leans on the wall and watches the fight unfold. Durazo lands a couple punches, but the tiger is stronger, he knocks Durazo to a wall, ice having formed on his garb.


    ¡°Shouldn¡¯t have come here, old man.¡± Says the tiger, his markings light up, long claws of ice form at his fingertips.


    The goat smirks and looks at Solomon.


    ¡°You should have known better than to meddle in the business of others¡­¡± He looks at her free hand, spotting the green spiral markings. ¡°Mystic One.¡± Solomon struggles, but try as she might, she cannot lift the cabinet. She could try melting it, but it would take far too long.


    The tiger approaches Durazo, icy claws baring. Solomon doesn¡¯t want to look, seeing him be killed before her eyes while she can do nothing would utterly destroy her emotionally.


    ¡°Dios mio¡­ Please let this work.¡± Durazo says through heavy breathing and clutches his cross necklace, looking straight at their assailant.


    ¡°God won¡¯t save you now!¡± The tiger remarks, preparing to strike him with his claws of ice.


    Durazo¡¯s cross starts shining, brighter and brighter, causing the tiger to cover his eyes from the light.


    ¡°Neither will cheap tricks!¡± The tiger then goes in for the kill and winds his arm back.


    The shining culminates in the cross emitting a ray of cross-shaped light, as thin as a strand of fur. It lasts no more than a second, but the tiger is hit by it vertically in the middle and horizontally at the shoulder. Where he is hit, his body begins to bleed and slightly slide apart before freezing over.


    The tiger falls backwards, and shatters into thousands of icy blue pieces. Solomon and the goat both look equally shocked by what just happened. The goat wastes no time and runs out the door and tries to lock it, only to discover that the lock was melted. Panicked, he runs out.


    In the meantime, Durazo goes to help Solomon get the cabinet off of her. The two lift it enough for her to get out from under it. He helps her stand up and she immediately goes to follow the goat.


    ¡°Father¡­¡± Solomon begins to say, going down the hallway as fast as she can with her aching legs. ¡°What was that?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll tell you later.¡± The canine responds, slightly out of breath, more from the fight with the tiger than the running. ¡°Let¡¯s catch him first.¡±


    The door to the mirror room is now wide open, the goat ran through the mirror maze. Solomon gets an idea, goes to the exit door and melts the lock. ¡°You¡¯re not getting away that easily.¡±


    The two leave the building and go to stand on each side of the entrance door. They hear the sound of rushing hooves, unaware of the two of them waiting for him.


    The goat tries to run out the door, but Solomon catches him, holding her hands over his eyes. He yelps and stops immediately.


    ¡°Don¡¯t try anything. You saw what I did to those doors, imagine what I could do to you.¡± She says, a little surprised by what she just said.


    The goat gets down on his knees, panting.


    ¡°I knew your cult would find me¡­¡± He says, terrified.  ¡°I knew this wasn¡¯t a good enough hiding place!¡±


    Solomon raises an eyebrow.


    ¡°Cult?¡± She asks and takes her hands off of the goat. He turns around and looks at her with a baffled look.


    ¡°You¡¯re not Lightborn?¡± He asks, seemingly not believing her.


    ¡°No? I¡¯ve¡­ Never heard of that.¡± Solomon shakes her head.


    The goat stands up and looks at her in utter disbelief.


    ¡°You don¡¯t know the Lightborn, yet you¡¯re a Mystic One? How am I supposed to believe that?¡± He doesn¡¯t even try to run away.


    ¡°We¡¯ve only had these powers for less than two months.¡± Durazo chimes in. ¡°We have kept it a secret until now.¡±


    The goat turns his head towards him now, Durazo holds out his hands to show his white markings.


    ¡°A Bright One and¡­¡± He gulps. ¡°Acid One...¡±


    Solomon frowns.


    ¡°Why is that so scary?¡± She demands.


    The goat recoils, causing Solomon to let out a sigh of exasperation.


    ¡°Please, I just want some answers¡­¡± She gestures towards the goat, who in turn slightly recoils again. ¡°I don¡¯t want to hurt you, despite what happened.¡±


    The goat laughs dryly.


    ¡°What, all of this is just a misunderstanding?¡±  He asks, Solomon nods in response, which makes him scowl at her. ¡°That little misunderstanding cost us a Frost One.¡± He sighs deeply. ¡°Then again, there is a living legend standing right in front of me, and I¡¯m not dead. Guess I¡¯m lucky for that.¡±


    Solomon makes her hands into fists, getting impatient.


    ¡°A legend? A legend?¡± She says, greatly annoyed. ¡°What do you know that I don¡¯t?¡±


    ¡°No Lightborn would ask a question like that. You¡¯re either a really good actor or you genuinely have no idea.¡± The goat finally relents. ¡°I hope not to regret this...¡±


    Solomon¡¯s eyes light up with anticipation.


    ¡°Acid Ones are supposed to be just a legend. We are all told about them, but we haven¡¯t seen a single one. The sheer scale of destruction they are rumoured to be able to cause¡­ It terrifies me.¡± The goat pauses for just a moment. ¡°And now, I get to see one with my own eyes.¡± He laughs nervously. ¡°If you really aren¡¯t Lightborn, then you absolutely mustn¡¯t fall into their hands, I can¡¯t even begin to imagine what they would use you for. And you¡­¡± He looks at Durazo. ¡°You certainly can¡¯t be Lightborn.¡±


    Solomon goes from excited to aghast. She hasn¡¯t discovered a way to do anything other than produce acid and that by itself can cause significant damage, but not on a large scale.


    ¡°Tell me who you work for.¡± Solomon begins to say. ¡°That, the Lightborn, and everything you know about Acid Ones. I need to know everything.¡± She demands, grabbing him by the shoulders which makes the goat let out a short scream. ¡°...please.¡± She adds, trying to make herself appear more agreeable.


    Durazo steps aside to make a phone call, looking in their direction, just in case.


    ¡°I can¡¯t tell you who I work for!¡± The goat exclaims. ¡°It¡¯s highly secretive and the higher-ups would have my head if I shared company secrets.¡±


    Solomon wonders whether or not he means figuratively or literally.


    ¡°But the Lightborn¡­¡± He continues. ¡°They are more like a cult. We don¡¯t know much about them. What we do know is that they kidnap Bright Ones and take them to who knows where. Since I¡¯m a Bright One, I was stationed here until a safer station would be constructed, just to hide me. Although I¡¯m certain they wouldn¡¯t mind having an Acid One.¡±


    Solomon takes a step back and looks at her hands. A legend¡­ She would much prefer these markings to be exactly that, just a legend.


    ¡°My turn to ask questions.¡± Says the goat with an inquiring look. ¡°Who do you work for? How did you manage to avoid the Lightborn? They relentlessly look for Bright Ones, as far we can tell.¡±


    ¡°We just work for a small investigation company.¡± Solomon responds, looking somewhat calmer. ¡°Given how we didn¡¯t even know they existed, it was pretty easy. I always wear gloves and Durazo¡¯s markings look like fur patterns.¡±


    The goat nods, incredulous.


    ¡°And why would a so-called ¡°small investigation company¡± employ two Mystic Ones? We only attacked because we thought you were Lightborn. If you aren¡¯t with us, or them, then who are you with, really?¡±


    Durazo walks back to them, having finished the conversation.


    ¡°Boss told us to bring him in for questioning.¡± He informs them, but mostly Solomon. ¡°This could be a major breakthrough.¡±


    ¡°Who? Who are you with?¡± The goat demands.


    ¡°You¡¯ll see in time. But you¡¯re coming with us for now.¡± She wiggles her fingers at him, which makes him recoil slightly.


    ¡°Fine, fine, I¡¯m going with you. Just¡­¡± He eyes Solomon¡¯s hands fearfully. ¡°Keep those hands away from me.¡±


    Solomon almost feels a sense of guilt. This goat is without a doubt terrified of her. Or rather, her power, just like that kite was. She has no intention of harming him, but how could he know that for sure? A legend about an exceedingly destructive power¡­ She certainly doesn¡¯t want to find out why this power is thought to be that.


    The two escort him to the vehicle they came to the park with.


    ¡°Why were you stationed here of all places?¡± Solomon asks.


    ¡°This place is hidden away from everything.¡± He answers with a rather sombre look. ¡°Boss is looking to construct a site here because the land was cheap to buy. How¡¯d you even find this place?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m keeping that a secret until we get back.¡± Solomon responds, her mind racing about everything she learned.


    The three of them get into the car. Durazo at the driver¡¯s seat, the goat in the backseat with Solomon next to him, much to his displeasure. During the trip, the goat keeps glancing at her hands, which eventually makes her put on her gloves.


    ¡°So, whatever organisation you belong to, it knows a lot about magic, right?¡± Solomon asks.


    ¡°Oh, you have no idea.¡± The goat says with a hint of pride in his voice. ¡°I don¡¯t rank very high, but all members are told about the different types of magic.¡±


    Solomon perks her ears.


    ¡°Well then go ahead. The more we know, the better.¡± She urges him to explain further.


    ¡°They all come from nature.¡± The goat says with a sigh, Solomon is already glad to hear confirmation. ¡°So Adelar was right about that.¡±


    ¡°Fire is the most common.¡± He continues. ¡°There is also frost, electricity, wind, light, darkness, metal, blood¡­ And as it turns out, acid is real as well.¡±


    Solomon is taken aback by that information. There are that many and she hasn¡¯t seen about half of those yet, maybe for the better.


    ¡°The colour and the pattern unmistakably give them away. Usually.¡±


    ¡°And what do they look like?¡± She doesn¡¯t tell the goat about her other colleagues or boss, as she doesn¡¯t trust him completely.


    He then goes on to explain the different colours and patterns. Solomon already knew about the types that her colleagues have, but the others are new information entirely. Metal is silver, usually rough and jagged, appearing in patches. Wind is light grey, it can be easy to mistake the colour for light or metal, but the pattern resembles long, curled lines. Darkness is, obviously, dark. The patterns vary greatly, it can be hard to identify.


    ¡°And blood¡­ Exceptionally rare. Deep crimson lines resembling veins.¡± Solomon¡¯s heart skips a beat. If she had any doubts about Adelar, they¡¯re all gone.


    ¡°Which of these types does your organisation have? What about the Lighborn?¡± She asks, voice shaking more than she would like.


    ¡°I can¡¯t tell you.¡± He says, sounding like he¡¯s tired of saying that. ¡°We have secrets that I can¡¯t risk getting to the wrong people, and we just don¡¯t know enough about the Lightborn to confirm anything.¡±


    Solomon shakes her head. Maybe she should mention that bat¡­ Then again, maybe it isn¡¯t such a good idea, given how secretive the org is. At least she has a better understanding of what she can expect in the future if she were to encounter more Mystic Ones. She also has many, many more questions than she started out with. Her whole situation is only getting more complicated.


    Solomon asks to see the goat¡¯s hands properly. Unlike Durazo¡¯s, his markings are unmistakably light, having lines resembling rays on all of his fingers going up to his wrists, surrounded by a more subtle aura of white.


    ¡°How did you do that, by the way?¡± The goat asks Durazo. ¡°With the cross?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m certainly not going to tell you that.¡± The ex-priest replies with a frown.


    The sun goes down during the trip back, the goat grows increasingly more comfortable with them.


    ¡°You have no idea how glad I am to hear that you¡¯re not Lightborn.¡± He says with a sullen look. ¡°We know so little about them¡­ I don¡¯t want to know what they do to us Bright Ones.¡±


    ¡°We¡¯ll have to stop here.¡± Says Durazo, turning toward a petrol station. Along the two sides of the road, fields of wheat.


    He stops and goes to fill the car. Solomon looks around and sees another car parked in front of the station shop, her mind on the types of magic that she learned about. She tries to imagine what they all might be able to do.


    Two people exit the shop, Solomon doesn¡¯t think much of them. They look pretty ordinary, just two mice. The goat is talking to her about the things he¡¯ll do once he gets a vacation. He seems to be quite the talkative one, gesturing with his hands as he talks.


    Solomon then sees another person exit the shop. A white bat with his hands in his pockets. Her eyes open wide. ¡°No, it¡¯s just a white bat. Nothing to worry about¡­¡±


    The bat takes his hands out of his pockets to put his hood on, now properly illuminated by the lights that reflect off of his fur. On his hands, lines of deep crimson, his eyes, red.


    Solomon wants to scream. She wants to yell at Durazo to get in the car and to drive them as far away as possible. She doesn¡¯t understand¡­ They are so far from Arminshire, what is he doing here?


    ¡°Stop talking.¡± She says in a tone much ruder than she intended. The goat looks a little offended. ¡°Tell him that we need to leave. Now.¡± The  goat rolls down the window, sticks his hand out and calls out to Durazo.


    ¡°Hey, we should be leaving.¡± He says it loud and clear. It catches the attention of the bat and the two mice. Solomon begins panting as she sees them start walking towards them.


    ¡°Father, we need to leave now.¡± She urges him.


    ¡°But we haven¡¯t paid yet?¡± He responds, turning to look at Solomon with concern. She tries to hide herself, but she is certain the bat saw her. Getting closer, he takes his hands out of his pockets. It¡¯s beyond any shadow of a doubt, it¡¯s the same bat. The goat looks at the bat, sees the markings, and gasps.


    ¡°Father, get in!¡± The two yell at the same time. The bat and the mice now running. That catches Durazo¡¯s attention, he gets into the driver¡¯s seat, starts the car and accelerates. One mouse manages to open one of the doors in the back, he hangs on as Durazo drives away. The goat kicks the mouse in the chest, which sends him falling onto the asphalt. The goat then closes the door in one quick motion.


    ¡°Father¡­¡± Says Solomon, clutching her chest. ¡°Next time I tell you to leave without paying in that tone, you do that. I¡¯d say the Lord can look away for those few seconds.¡±


    She looks back, the petrol station getting farther and farther away from them. She breathes a sigh of relief.


    ¡°Judging by your reaction, those guys were not with you.¡± Says the goat. ¡°Then they have to be¡­¡±


    Pop, pop. The three hear as the car starts to skid. Solomon looks back again, spotting a figure coming out from the wheat field. Durazo panics as the car spins out  of control, despite his efforts to keep it straight.


    The car practically flies off the road and crashes, rolling once, then twice, finally landing on its roof.


    So many thoughts go through Solomon¡¯s head, the measures that the Lightbron took just to potentially catch someone¡­ She feels like she panicked. She shouldn¡¯t have told the goat to rush Durazo. None of this would have happened.


    The three crawl out from the wreck, Solomon notices that Durazo has a bad limp now.


    ¡°Quick, this way!¡± Says the goat, ducking down and crawling deeper into the wheat field.


    ¡°This is bad, at this pace, they¡¯ll catch up in no time!¡± Says Solomon. They may have crashed, but they still went quite far from the bat and the others. She isn¡¯t sure how far away they are from the other one she saw at the side of the road, however.


    The three then hear a loud screech coming from the direction they came from. Solomon remembers hearing that bats can¡¯t see too well in the dark, but they can make a sound to ¡°see¡± better. She isn¡¯t sure if she even believes that they can¡¯t see in the dark, given how that bat saw pretty well in that dark basement. She doesn¡¯t know how their echolocation works exactly or what its range is, which only adds to her fear. Who¡¯s to say they haven¡¯t been spotted yet?


    Durazo tries to stay down and crawl, biting a piece of torn fabric to keep his pained groans as quiet as he can.


    ¡°Can you two heal him up with your light?¡± Solomon asks the goat.


    ¡°That¡¯s a surefire way to be seen.¡± He responds, shaking his head.


    ¡°Is there anything we can do then?¡± She asks in a desperate tone. ¡°Aren¡¯t you supposed to be trained or something?¡±


    ¡°There is one thing.¡± Says the goat after a brief moment of thinking. ¡°They want me. They saw my marking, his blends in much better.¡±


    They hear another screech, which sounds to be ever so closer.


    ¡°You can¡¯t do that! You said you-¡± Solomon says, grabbing him by the shoulders.


    ¡°I know what I said. I really don¡¯t want to find out what they do to Bright Ones¡­ But I would rather do that than have an Acid One fall into their hands.¡± He explains with a dismal look. ¡°I can¡¯t tell you much, but listen¡­¡± The three can see a car approaching from the distance alongside another screech.


    ¡°If you want more answers, go to Lion¡¯s Den Parlour. Make an appointment. Tell them Grayson sent you.¡± The goat then stands up and starts walking to the road. ¡°May we never have to meet again.¡± He says without looking back.


    Durazo crosses himself and mutters something Solomon can¡¯t understand, staying down with her. Just how important is this acid power? Certainly powerful enough to make a complete stranger give himself up just so their enemies can¡¯t get it.


    Grayson stands on the side of the road and lights up his palms. One more screech is heard. The car stops, Solomon hides and hears talking, but can¡¯t make out what¡¯s being said. She then hears the sound of a car door being slammed. She doesn¡¯t hear them leave, however.


    ¡°Is this it? Was this all for nothing?¡±


    Nothing happens for a couple minutes. She waits there, ready as ever to protect Durazo and herself with her power. ¡°Even if it causes so much pain¡­ Some people do deserve it.¡± She recoils slightly at the morbid thought.


    She then hears the sound of a car door opening and closing, after which, the sound of the car leaving is heard. The two stay there for a few long minutes before Solomon takes a tentative glance towards the road and doesn¡¯t see anyone, not even Grayson.


    ¡°Father¡­¡± She whispers. ¡°How are we going to explain this to Adelar?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m sure he¡¯ll just be happy we didn¡¯t get taken.¡± He guesses, which Solomon hopes is true.


    The feline thinks about what just transpired. She feels relieved, but she also feels a sense of guilt about it all. She shouldn¡¯t have panicked, she should have just let Durazo finish and they could have just left right after.


    Solomon works up the courage to inspect the car after double and triple-checking that there¡¯s no one waiting for them at the road or the car. She¡¯s no mechanic, but she can tell that they aren¡¯t going anywhere using that. Two of the tires are popped, the vehicle is totalled.


    ¡°Adelar will not like that, however.¡± She remarks.


    Durazo makes another phone call and explains what happened. The eagle doesn¡¯t sound mad, but worried. They talk for a good few minutes, Solomon keeps looking around, her night vision having gone back to normal.


    ¡°He told me Lisa is on her way to pick us up.¡± Durazo says as he hangs up. ¡°It¡¯ll take her a while, but at least someone is coming.¡±


    They walk to the side of the road, Durazo sits down and shines his light onto his limping leg, putting it out when the odd car comes.


    ¡°Father¡­¡± Says Solomon. ¡°How did you do that?¡±


    ¡°I assume you mean the light and the cross?¡± He says with a smile, Solomon nods. ¡°You see¡­ I noticed how that Blazing One we fought was¡­ How should I say¡­ Putting his magic into those rocks?¡± He shrugs. ¡°I tried to do that as well.¡±


    Solomon gasps in awe.


    ¡°How?¡± She asks, a look of childlike curiosity on her face.


    ¡°It took me two weeks to figure it out, then another two were spent putting my light inside it. It normally heals, but concentrated enough¡­ It can cause some damage, it looks like. I wasn¡¯t sure it would work, but it did.¡±


    Solomon feels like she¡¯s listening to one of her grandfather¡¯s tales of old. Except this time, it¡¯s her that¡¯s living through it.


    ¡°You have to show me how to do that!¡± She says, excited about finding out what her power can do when ¡°put inside¡± objects. ¡°Not like we have anything better to do.¡±


    Durazo puts a hand on her shoulder. She is happy to see that despite everything Grayson said about Acid Ones, he doesn¡¯t seem to be afraid of her. That makes her feel better about her power and herself as a whole.


    ¡°Of course.¡± He nods. ¡°I was going to tell you and the others at the station, but looks like I can just tell you right here.¡±


    Durazo tells and shows her how to do it. He calls it ¡°blessing¡± an item with magic. He holds his cross in his hand, his marking lights up, she can almost see the light go into the cross. He explains that he needs to focus more on the object than the magic itself to do it.


    Solomon goes to try it for herself with a blade of grass. She holds one in her hand, focuses on the piece of grass, her marking lights up¡­ And the grass dissolves in her hand.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry.¡± Says Durazo, patting her back. ¡°It did take me two weeks to figure it out. Of course, that was the hard part. Blessing itself is rather easy.¡±


    Solomon feels obligated to learn how to do this properly. She feels the need to prove the legends wrong, to prove that her power isn¡¯t only for destruction. For a moment, she forgets about Lion¡¯s Den as a whole, focusing entirely on trying to bless the blade of grass.


    ¡°How long until Lisa arrives, you think?¡± Durazo asks. ¡°This is a four hour drive. We have driven one so far.¡±


    ¡°She can make it in two and a half.¡± Solomon responds with a smile.


    ¡°Is she that good of a driver?¡± Durazo questions with a somewhat concerned look.


    ¡°No, she¡¯llll just drive over the speed limit.¡± Solomon states matter-of-factly. ¡°I¡¯ve been her passenger, it sure is an experience.¡±


    Durazo sighs and covers his face with a hand.


    Solomon spends two hours trying to bless grass. She feels like she¡¯s so close, as each blade of grass takes longer and longer to dissolve.


    ¡°Another try.¡±


    She takes a piece of grass in her hands and looks intently at it, her focus unbroken for half a minute, then a full minute, then a full two minutes as her markings light up¡­ But no acid comes out. Rather than that, the blade of grass also starts to glow, a shade of green, but glow nonetheless. A smile spreads across her face, joy in her eyes.


    ¡°Would you look at that?¡± Durazo chuckles. ¡°It¡¯s easier when someone explains, isn¡¯t it?¡± Solomon¡¯s markings stop glowing, so does the piece of grass.


    ¡°I did it! I blessed it!¡± She exclaims, elated. ¡°But¡­ What did it do?¡± She holds the grass in her hand and looks at it from all sides. Nothing seems to have changed about it.


    She then gets an idea: her markings light up and acid gathers in her palm. She places the grass in it. Lo and behold, it doesn¡¯t dissolve, the acid has no effect on it. Solomon is overjoyed with the discovery.


    ¡°Father! Whatever I bless won¡¯t be affected by my acid!¡± She says with excitement in her voice.


    ¡°That¡¯s great news, Solomon.¡± Durazo laughs and pats her head. She already has so many ideas on what she will bless once she perfects it, starting with her clothes. She may be unaffected by her acid, but what she wears isn¡¯t. She would rather not accidentally melt them or think about the complications that could cause. She spends the next hour doing the same, feeling like she¡¯s getting better and better. The two converse about the rather bizarre day they had and the information they¡¯ve gathered. ¡°Lion¡¯s Den Parlour¡­ We¡¯ll have to look into it.¡±


    As time passes, she sees Durazo look into the distance, looking rather aloof.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong, Father?¡± She asks, feeling worried. The canine¡¯s apparent trance breaks and he looks over to Solomon.


    ¡°Oh, nothing. I was just¡­ Thinking. Thinking about my old life.¡± He says in response.


    ¡°Sorry for asking, Father.¡± Solomon says, her ears drooping.¡°I didn¡¯t know-¡±


    ¡°No, it¡¯s okay.¡± Durazo cuts her off. ¡°There¡¯s just someone I¡¯m not very fond of.¡±


    ¡°And who is it?¡± Solomon can¡¯t help but ask. She¡¯s about to apologise for her impulsive question when the ex-priest responds calmly.


    ¡°Reverend Antonio Alvarez.¡± Solomon is sure she can see the slightest hint of anger in his expression. ¡°I would always preach about forgiveness, but that¡¯s someone I can¡¯t forgive, ever.¡± He pauses, Solomon can see for just a moment that his teeth are gritted the next time he opens his mouth to speak. ¡°Someone I used to call a friend, even. That bloodhound¡­¡± He notices that Solomon looks rather sad to hear what he¡¯s saying. ¡°I¡¯m sorry you had to hear that, I¡¯ll stop.¡±


    The cat perks her ears and gestures to him to go on.


    ¡°Oh non, non, I don¡¯t mind it! If you need to talk about it, I can listen!¡± She says with a smile. Durazo seems glad to talk to someone about the matter.


    ¡°All he cares about is money.¡± He begins to say with downright disdain. ¡°Once another bloodhound came to us, seeking forgiveness from the Lord, clearly down on his luck. Antonio told him that by giving to the church, his sins would be forgiven.¡± Solomon can see a pronounced vein forming on his forehead. ¡°He gave what little money he had to us¡­ No, to him. He was found frozen on a bench two days later. That was the final straw. I couldn¡¯t put up with his sins anymore.¡±


    Solomon wants to comfort Durazo, but can¡¯t quite find the right words to express herself.


    ¡°That¡¯s¡­ Terrible.¡± Is all she manages to say.


    ¡°His crimes, I find unforgivable.¡± Says Durazo. ¡°May the Lord have mercy on his soul, for no one else will.¡±


    ¡°Did no one report that?¡± Solomon questions.


    ¡°He has connections, unfortunately.¡± Says the canine. ¡°His greed is more of an open secret. People know about it, but can¡¯t do anything.¡± Solomon sees a single tear roll down his cheek.


    It takes longer than Solomon expected, about half an hour longer, but Lisa arrives with her own car. She stops at the side of the road and rolls down her window. She looks at them, then the wrecked car.


    ¡°You better have a really good story, mates.¡± She says with a smirk. ¡°You had me worried too much not to have one.¡±


    The two get into the car, Lisa makes a Y-turn and they begin the trip back. They recount the story, Solomon adds her experience with blessing, sounding beyond excited to finally be able to do something not destructive.


    ¡°You know Father¡­¡± Says Lisa. ¡°We all know the saying, but don¡¯t take it as actual advice.¡±


    Durazo grumbles.


    Despite everything, Solomon found out so much about not just magic, but her magic as well. She knew it, she just knew that there was more to her power than to destroy. She will practise more and bless so many things, protecting them from her power. She wonders if it works on people¡­ But she¡¯ll try that when she can be sure.

 Chapter 6 - Encroach

    While in the car, Solomon gets a message from Adelar, stating that he can wait until the next day and that they should rest.


    ¡°You did what now, Father?¡± Lisa asks, seemingly in awe. ¡°Of course I¡¯m not there when you do something wicked!¡±


    ¡°May the Lord forgive me for it.¡± Durazo says solemnly.


    Solomon holds the blessed blade of grass, and to her delight, it doesn¡¯t melt or go through any adverse effects on the way back. Lisa brings Durazo and Solomon home before going back to her residence herself.


    Solomon trudges up to her apartment, feeling terribly tired. However, she just has to try something that¡¯ll surely make her feel better about her power. Just a few pieces of clothing¡­


    She takes her scarf into her hand and focuses on it, just like how she did with the final blade of grass. Her markings light up and the scarf starts to glow the same shade of green. Once she¡¯s done, she shakes a little in excitement and puts her scarf back on.


    ¡°Take that, legends!¡± She utters, triumphant. She does the same to her gloves, dress and then the rest of her wardrobe at home. It makes her feel ecstatic, the knowledge that she isn¡¯t just an instrument of destruction. She already blessed all her clothing, but why stop there? She does the same to most of her possessions, furniture, carpet and the like. She even tries it on the wall, but it doesn¡¯t seem to work quite as well. She figures that the surface must be a little too big for that.


    After protecting everything she owns from herself, she finally decides that it¡¯s time to go to sleep. She turns off the lights, but her room barely gets any darker. She looks through her window and sees that it¡¯s getting bright outside.


    ¡°Not again¡­¡± She whines in exasperation.


    Despite everything, she goes to bed and sleeps a grand total of three hours. Her dreams only leave her more tired than she was before going to sleep, much to her annoyance. Regardless, she gets up, tries to make herself look somewhat presentable, and makes her way to the station. She feels pretty terrible, but she can¡¯t miss today¡¯s meeting.


    ¡°Solomon, Durazo.¡± Adelar begins to say. ¡°Tell me everything you learned. Especially about this ¡°Lion¡¯s Den¡± place.¡±


    Durazo then starts recounting their experience in great detail, Solomon hardly adds anything due to exhaustion. In fact, she can hardly listen.


    ¡°Solomon, is everything alright?¡± Adelar eventually asks.


    ¡°Oh, it¡¯s nothing¡­¡± She shakes her head and waves her hand dismissively. ¡°I just got a little too focused on blessing last night.¡±


    Adelar pauses at her response.


    ¡°Focused on what now?¡± He asks, raising an eyebrow.


    ¡°I imitated that black kite we fought.¡± Says Durazo. ¡°We can put our magic into objects! Solomon learned how to do it pretty quickly once I explained how to do it.¡±


    ¡°I won¡¯t be able to melt anything in my room even if I tried.¡± She says with a soft chuckle. The others look a little concerned for her.


    ¡°Sounds a little obsessive if you ask me, but whatever gets ya going.¡± Says Lisa, gently poking Solomon so that she doesn¡¯t just fall asleep at the table.


    ¡°It makes me feel great about myself.¡± Solomon says, rubbing her eyes.


    She thinks back to the reactions of the other Mystic Ones she encountered. Such pure horror elicited from someone who wouldn¡¯t want to hurt anyone normally, if it wasn¡¯t for some force beyond her deciding that she should have a destructive power.


    ¡°I would love to find out if I can bless living beings, but I don¡¯t trust myself enough for that yet.¡± Solomon says sleepily. ¡°I want to protect you, in case something¡­ Bad happens.¡±


    ¡°Ain¡¯t she sweet?¡± Lisa pats Solomon¡¯s back, the cat figures that it¡¯s to try and keep her awake.


    ¡°Did you find out anything about the book?¡± Adelar brings up the mysterious matter.


    Solomon¡¯s eyes shoot open. The book¡­ She totally forgot about it. It¡¯s just been so long, and so little came of it so far. Even still, she should have asked Grayson before he got taken away. She should have asked about more things that just weren¡¯t on her mind at the time.


    ¡°No¡­¡± She says, her mood looking to have worsened.


    ¡°No matter.¡± Adelar says in a tone that tells Solomon that he¡¯s trying his hardest to cheer her up a bit. ¡°A meeting shall be scheduled at Lion¡¯s Den.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll do that.¡± Durazo chimes in. ¡°Has anyone looked into them yet?¡±


    No one speaks up for a few much too uncomfortable seconds. Yaroslav takes out  his phone and makes a quick search.


    ¡°Found a number.¡± He breaks the silence, showing the results to Durazo, who then steps away and makes a call. The conversation doesn¡¯t last long, it concludes with them getting an appointment for at most three people next week.


    ¡°Next week?¡± Solomon complains.


    ¡°That¡¯s what I was told.¡± Durazo puts away his phone. ¡°Three people at most¡­ I find that suspicious.¡±


    ¡°I know I¡¯ll be going then.¡± Says Lisa, leaning back in her chair with a devilish smile. ¡°Trust me, I can be very persuasive.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s exactly what I¡¯m afraid of.¡± Durazo remarks, glancing at the wolf. ¡°Which is why I will be going as well.¡±


    ¡°Count me in.¡± Yaroslav lightly slams the table, clearly excited.


    Solomon is left a little disappointed deep inside, but she thinks that maybe it¡¯s for the better. No one, including her, has reacted positively to her markings so far, why would it be different this time? Not that she plans on showing them, but just in case, maybe it¡¯s best if she doesn¡¯t go.


    ¡°Very well.¡± Says Adelar. ¡°Then the three of you will be going. Solomon and I will hold the front in the meantime when the time comes.¡± He winks at the feline. ¡°Just make sure to get some proper rest then.¡±


    Solomon nods, struggling to keep her eyes open.


    ¡°You have done well.¡± Adelar continues. ¡°I choose to reward you with some time away to practise this ¡°blessing¡± in private. ¡± He says with a smile. ¡°I might have to do that myself¡­ Everyone except Durazo, you are dismissed.¡±


    ¡°¡®Preciate it!¡± Lisa taps her can and turns to leave.


    Yaroslav shakes hands with Adelar, Durazo stays, most likely to show the eagle how to bless with magic.


    ¡°Thanks¡­¡± Solomon mutters before leaving as well, wondering how come Adelar didn¡¯t know about such a use of magic. She can¡¯t decide whether or not her job has gotten easier or harder due to this whole magic situation, but she can really see why Adelar offered to double their pay. ¡°Who even finances this company in the first place?¡±


    At the entrance, outside the station, she gets a little startled by Lisa putting a hand on her shoulder.


    ¡°Say, Solomon...¡± She starts, looking down at her, practically radiating a great mood. ¡°Thali and I are planning to go to Herbertville! She asked if you wanna come as well.¡±


    Solomon looks at Lisa and rubs her eyes. Thali? She must mean Thalia, the leopard from Olympus.


    ¡°For what?¡± She finally asks.


    ¡°Apparently there will be a special meeting there.¡± Lisa leans on the wall. ¡°We figured we could bring you as well! Whaddya say?¡±


    ¡°And¡­ What is this meeting about?¡± Solomon asks and rubs her eyes again.


    ¡°Some writer. Pretty niche, apparently? Ain¡¯t heard of ¡®er before.¡± The wolf shrugs.


    Solomon feels a sense of uncertainty. That was so sudden¡­ She¡¯s not the most social person, isn¡¯t very fond of strangers, and she isn¡¯t nearly in the proper headspace to make a decision like this so quickly.


    ¡°I can answer for sure later, but I really need some rest¡­¡± She yawns.


    ¡°Fine by me. See ya later, Rox!¡± The wolf then leaves after spinning her cane around once.


    Solomon waves goodbye and starts walking back to her apartment, her mind now on the meeting. Mostly¡­


    ¡°Wait, what did she just call me?¡±


    Feeling like she already fell asleep on the way back, Solomon steps inside her home and crashes into bed.


    ¡°I really need to stop doing that¡­¡± She says into her pillow, falling asleep within minutes, finding herself back in the barren wasteland.


    It almost feels comforting that wherever she goes, she will always eventually end up here, where a dark figure tries its best to touch her. It¡¯s just all the same, every night. ¡°No, on second thought, that¡¯s not comforting at all.¡±


    She then tries to think of something she didn¡¯t try before to possibly escape the thing for good. She thinks of an idea. It¡¯s pretty out there, but if running doesn¡¯t work¡­ She can certainly take a different approach.


    After running for a while, stops in her tracks, turns around to face the figure, and focuses on it as much as she can. If it¡¯s a dream, maybe she can order it to stop, maybe her newfound power to protect, not destroy had enough of an influence on her mind to make it stop!


    She holds out an arm, focusing all of her mental effort into trying to make the figure stop.


    The figure¡¯s running. it keeps running and doesn¡¯t slow down at all, the footsteps and quiet drip, drip, drip filling the otherwise entirely silent atmosphere.


    ¡°HALT!¡± Solomon shouts, hoping that whatever has invaded her dreams would obey her command. It¡¯s her mind and she won¡¯t let it be invaded by whatever it is!


    The results¡­ Not so stellar, the figure completely ignores her and keeps pace, drawing uncomfortably close.


    Seeing that she has no effect on the figure, she turns and begins running once again. It feels like second nature at this point, but she¡¯s not fast enough. The momentum carries the figure, it lunges and reaches out¡­


    Solomon wakes up and practically jumps up in bed, grasping at her chest.


    ¡°Well¡­ That didn¡¯t work.¡± She states to herself, a little disappointed. ¡°There has to be a way to beat it!¡± She lightly punches a pillow. ¡°I just know¡­¡±


    With that, she decides to check her phone and sees that Thalia sent her a message.


    ¡°Hey Solomon! I¡¯m sure Lisa already asked you about it, but want to come with us?¡±


    Along with the message, she sent an advert. ¡°Really, Thalia?¡±


    The ad redirects her to a crude website about the event itself: a meeting with the gecko writer Camille Wright in Harbertville. Anyone is welcome to go and tell their real-life experiences that may just be featured in her new book, as well as just hang out. No entry fee required.


    ¡°Harbertville¡­¡± Solomon has heard the name of that town before, or at least she''s pretty sure she did. She recalls that it was built by the sea and is somewhat famous for its exceptional fish and hospitality.


    That has her curious, she writes a message to Lisa.


    ¡°Is this meeting with some gecko?¡±


    It only takes a few seconds for Lisa to respond.


    ¡°How did you know???¡±


    ¡°Thalia sent me the ad.¡± She herself isn¡¯t sure why those two would be interested in something like this.


    ¡°Splendid!¡± Lisa writes. ¡°You coming, then?¡±


    Solomon feels a bit unnerved about it.


    ¡°Just the three of us?¡± She asks, her mind entirely in different places. What if they run into the Lightborn again? Is Lisa not afraid of that? She¡¯s proven that she isn¡¯t afraid to use her powers to fend off attackers¡­ Then again, maybe Solomon¡¯s just being overly paranoid. Not everyone is out to get her, as long as she has her gloves on, nothing has changed.


    ¡°Maybe I could use a break¡­ It¡¯s on my day off after all.¡±


    ¡°Probably. We¡¯ll see if anyone else goes.¡± Lisa responds. She may not be the most relaxing person Solomon knows, but maybe some of her energy will rub off on her. She also doesn¡¯t really know Thalia, but she figures it¡¯s as good of a time as any to get to know her. She types but one word: ¡°Sure.¡±


    ¡°Brilliant!¡± Lisa writes back not long after. ¡°Will be coming to pick ya up at 11 in the morning, be ready.¡±


    And so, it is decided. Solomon is excited to spend a little time with her friend, as well as her friend¡¯s friend, in a renowned fishing town.


    Just in case they expect something formal during the meeting, she puts on her finest red dress for the occasion, coupled with her scarf and gloves. They almost feel different to wear altogether now that she has blessed them. The thought that she can¡¯t accidentally destroy them, at least not with her power, comforts her.


    The next day, Solomon looks through her window after hearing a car¡¯s horn. Like she promised, Lisa comes to pick her up at the time that was agreed upon. Thalia is already in the car, wearing a black and white dress. Lisa is wearing the same outfit Solomon has always seen her wear. She gets out to have a smoke from her pipe, but her lighter doesn¡¯t light up. She scoffs and puts the lighter and the pipe away. Solomon locks her door and makes her way down.


    Lisa tips her hat, Solomon waves with a smile.


    ¡°Hope ya don¡¯t mind gettin¡¯ the backseat.¡± Says the wolf.


    ¡°Not a problem.¡± Solomon shakes her head, gets in, and greets Thalia.


    ¡°So how¡¯s life been treating you?¡± The leopard asks.


    Solomon thinks about that for a moment. It would be a terrible idea to tell her just about anything that has happened since they last met.


    ¡°It¡¯s been alright.¡± She says with a shrug.


    Thalia chuckles softly.


    ¡°Been pretty good myself!¡± Says the leopard. ¡°I got some tales to tell this gecko.¡±


    Lisa gets in, starts the car, and types the address into a GPS.


    ¡°Camille Wright¡­¡± Says Solomon. ¡°What does she write?¡±


    ¡°Some nonfiction, far as I know.¡± Says Lisa.


    Curious, Solomon decides to look up some of her works. To say the least, she¡¯s not impressed.


    ¡°Bucolic Life of the Rural?¡± She reads out loud.


    ¡°Pardon?¡± Lisa chuckles. ¡°What does that mean?¡±


    ¡°Are we sure we want to meet her?¡± Solomon questions.


    ¡°Come on, I think it¡¯ll be fun!¡± Says Thalia.


    The three converse about their jobs and general lives for a while during the trip. Solomon learns a couple things about Thalia, nothing too important, mostly just about how Olympus is run, as well as some of her hobbies, one of them being painting. Solomon is glad to at least know a little more about the leopard.


    On the way, Lisa stops at a shop.


    ¡°Sorry ladies, but I have to get a little something from here.¡± She gets out of the car and walks inside.


    Thalia takes out her phone, Solomon presumes that she writes a message to someone.


    ¡°So¡­¡± Solomon breaks the silence after a few seconds. ¡°How come you wanted me to come as well, of all people? You¡¯ve only even seen me once, right?¡±


    ¡°Oh, I¡¯ve only seen you once, yes.¡± The leopard responds. ¡°But Lisa mentions you and her other colleagues quite often.¡±


    Solomon thinks that it¡¯s quite nice that she thinks of them outside of work seemingly about as often as she does with them, apparently. Then again, it likely has to do with their powers to an extent.


    ¡°Not to mention, thought I¡¯d have the two lovebirds together for a little trip.¡± Thalia adds.


    Solomon¡¯s ears perk up, the statement figuratively hitting her in the face.


    ¡°Excuse me, what?¡± She asks in an indignant tone, leaning forward.


    ¡°Oh come on, it¡¯s okay.¡± Thalia smiles warmly, turning to face her. ¡°I think you picked a fine restaurant for a date.¡±


    Solomon just then understands what the leopard means and shakes her head.


    ¡°That was NOT a date.¡± She exclaims. ¡°We were there on work-related matters to listen in on a conversation.¡±


    ¡°Wait, really?¡± Thalia asks, looking quite shocked.


    ¡°Yes, really.¡± Solomon frowns, feeling slightly embarrassed. ¡°But¡­ Why? Why¡¯d you think she¡¯d be interested in me?¡±


    ¡°I know what she likes.¡± Thalia sighs. ¡°I¡¯ve had three years to get to know that.¡± She says with a hint of offence in her voice.


    Solomon then comes to a realisation.


    ¡°Wait, you two were¡­¡± She says, but Thalia cuts her off.


    ¡°Yes.¡± The leopard says in a bittersweet tone.  ¡°We indeed were.¡±


    All of a sudden, Solomon feels a sense of guilt, she didn¡¯t mean to offend Thalia by any means just now. Two vastly different species together¡­ Somewhat uncommon based on what she¡¯s seen, but certainly exists. And who is she to doubt love?


    ¡°I¡¯m so sorry Thalia, I didn¡¯t know¡­¡± She says, putting a hand over her mouth, wishing she would just be out of such a terribly awkward situation.


    ¡°No, it¡¯s fine, really shouldn¡¯t have jumped to conclusions there.¡± Thalia responds immediately. ¡°It¡¯s just that you know¡­ She has a type and we both happen to be just that type and it seemed a little too convenient and she talks about you a lot¡­¡± She takes a deep breath. ¡°You see how I arrived at the conclusion, right?¡±


    ¡°You know after all that¡­¡± Solomon says with a nod. ¡°Can¡¯t blame you too much. Don¡¯t get me wrong, I¡¯d say Lisa and I are close, but not that close.¡± She leans back in her seat and thinks about it for a few long moments. She did spend quite a bit of time with the wolf both during and outside of work, so she¡¯s at the very least very, very fond of her. Someone she¡¯d trust with her life for certain. And someone whose company does make her feel quite happy¡­


    ¡°Yeah, I get that.¡± Says Thalia. ¡°She¡¯s not really the emotional type, to be honest. I just felt like there was no spark. We¡¯re still on good terms though! But I swear, she behaves like nothing ever happened, like we¡¯ve always just been friends¡­¡± Her ears droop slightly.


    Solomon doesn¡¯t admit it, but she can see Lisa be that type of person. She¡¯s been there for Solomon when she needed a shoulder to lean on. She wouldn¡¯t take her as much of a lover though¡­ Maybe because of all her quirks, or maybe because Lisa just never talks about any experiences with relationships.


    ¡°So when I saw her with you, I just instantly went there mentally.¡± Thalia goes on. ¡±Lisa¡¯s a good friend and despite everything, I want her to be happy.¡±


    The two then spot Lisa exit the shop and walk back to the car.


    ¡°Is that why you helped with that whole reservation situation?¡± Solomon leans forward to whisper.


    Thalia nods with an awkward smile.


    ¡°Thanks for clearing things up.¡± Solomon turns back, feeling just bad for the leopard. ¡°And sorry for¡­ That, really.¡±


    Lisa gets into the car, seemingly empty-handed, none the wiser.


    ¡°What did you even buy?¡± Thalia inquires.


    ¡°Lighter fluid.¡± She opens her coat, a bottle neatly sitting in a pocket on the inside. She takes it out and puts it on the backseat. ¡°You don¡¯t mind that, right, Rox?¡±


    The cat smiles and shakes her head. They then resume their journey, although very little is said for many minutes.


    ¡°Alright, which one of ya killed the mood?¡± Lisa asks with a hint of sarcasm in her voice. ¡°Or you just need a conversation starter? Both of you know damn well that I never run out of those.¡± She laughs in blissful ignorance, which does seem to lift the mood.


    The three begin to talk about some decidedly more lighthearted topics, including the overly long story of Lisa¡¯s custom-made cane-sword.


    Solomon thinks about what Thalia said. She doesn¡¯t think of the wolf any differently, she is her friend and this will not change that. Lisa was there for her when she needed, she will be more than ready to do the same in the future.


    ¡°So, have either of you been to Harbertville before?¡± Solomon asks, eliciting a chuckle from Lisa. ¡°What¡¯s so funny?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s ¡°Herbertville¡±.¡± She corrects her, leaving Solomon mildly confused.


    ¡°No, the ad says Harbertville.¡± The cat says with a tinge of frustration in her voice. ¡°With an ¡°a¡±.¡±


    ¡°Thali¡­¡± Lisa gives the leopard a side-eye look. ¡°I thought you said it was Herbertville? You know, the ¡°City by the Sea¡±?¡±


    ¡°On it.¡± Thalia takes out her phone and looks up the ad. ¡°Yeah¡­¡± She says in a defeated tone, much to Lisa¡¯s annoyance, then takes the GPS and begins typing.


    ¡°Did you even read the ad yourself?¡± Solomon asks the wolf.


    ¡°Thali wrote me the details, which clearly said Herbertville.¡± Lisa complains.


    ¡°Whoever did the naming with those two must have been feeling very funny.¡±


    Solomon never would have guessed that two towns named so similar even existed. She just immediately assumed that it was the renowned fishing town, Herbertville, when she read the ad.


    ¡°Where even is this ¡°Harbertville¡± then?¡± Lisa asks after a deep sigh.


    ¡°Actually, quite close.¡± Thalia answers, delighted. ¡°Same street address exists there too.¡±


    Solomon takes out her phone and searches up Harbertville. What she finds leaves her quite disappointed.


    ¡°Apparently, it¡¯s a ghost town.¡± She states, feeling a lot less excited.


    Thalia and Lisa both turn to face her, although Lisa turns her head back to the road fast.


    ¡°Alright, that¡¯s bollocks.¡± Lisa says in an incredulous tone. ¡°Why would this writer hold a meeting in a ghost town?¡±


    Solomon reads through many sources, they all say the same. Harbertville is indeed said to be abandoned for a few years due to a high tide that left most houses uninhabitable.


    ¡°Good thing you brought two investigators, Thalia.¡± Solomon remarks, growing slightly suspicious.


    Stolen from its original source, this story is not meant to be on Amazon; report any sightings.


    The three of them discuss what to do, only half an hour¡¯s drive away from the town.


    ¡°It says that it left most of the houses uninhabitable. So not all of them?¡± Solomon guesses. ¡°Maybe some people still live there?¡± She tries her best not to think too far into it, it¡¯s just an honest mistake. Or possibly a scam.


    ¡°Listen, we¡¯re so close already.¡± Says Thalia. ¡°We might as well check it out. If it looks bad, we just leave. Alright?¡±


    ¡°This whole thing seems like a giant red flag already¡­.¡± Solomon exhales deeply. ¡°But okay, sure.  We¡¯re leaving at the first sign of trouble, though.¡± She adds, slightly irritated.


    ¡°I don¡¯t have the best feelin¡¯ about this either, but let¡¯s be honest¡­ We all have claws and fangs.¡± Lisa says with a chuckle. ¡°And I have a sword! What¡¯s the worst that can happen?¡± She winks at Solomon, who smiles and nods back at her.


    Lisa¡¯s right. Electricity and acid¡­ If the worst were to happen, they can likely handle it. They decide to go through with the plan and meet this Camille person.


    Harbertville definitely looks like a ghost town. Solomon can see that the houses at the lower side of the shore have been extensively damaged by the high tide. However, the address they were given is that of a house at the upper section, where the houses look to be in decidedly better condition. There isn¡¯t a single soul around, regardless.


    ¡°Already gettin¡¯ major creeps from this place. Just sayin¡¯.¡± Says Lisa, looking from side to side, no house seems to be inhabited.


    ¡°What is it with me and abandoned places lately?¡±


    The town doesn¡¯t seem to have working electricity, due to the lack of power lines. Looking to the left, they see the house at the address given. It¡¯s an ordinary house with two two floors, a generator running, and overall better taken care of than the rest of the town. There is a dry, dead tree opposite to the house.


    ¡°No one else showed up here.¡± Solomon says, concerned.


    ¡°Maybe because this is about the shadiest lookin¡¯ place I¡¯ve seen in a while.¡± Lisa remarks with a concerned look. ¡°Are you sure about this?¡±


    ¡°We¡¯re here, aren¡¯t we?¡± Thalia says with a nod.


    Solomon considers just staying in the car, but she can¡¯t do that. What if they need her acid power and she¡¯s not there to help them? She can¡¯t take a risk like that.


    The three get out of the car, Lisa locks it, cane in her hand, and makes a gesture to let Thalia go first with a slight bow. The leopard walks up to the door with the other two behind her and knocks.


    The door swings halfway open not a minute later and a middle-aged, well-dressed sparrow greets them.


    ¡°Good afternoon. Here for Camille?¡± He asks with a welcoming grin.


    ¡°Yes, we are.¡± Thalia nods with a respectful smile. ¡°Good afternoon to you as well.¡±


    ¡°Afternoon.¡± Lisa tips her hat.


    Solomon just nods.


    ¡°Then by all means, please come in.¡± Says the sparrow and opens the door fully. The three enter the house, which looks quite quaint on the inside, decorated with bookshelves and old furniture, flower-pattern wallpaper covering most of the walls. It almost reminds Solomon of Lisa¡¯s house.


    The sparrow takes them to a small room lit by a single lightbulb with four single sofas and a desk, blinds cover the two windows of the room. A gecko is sitting on one of the sofas, wearing black trousers, a brown coat, white gloves and spectacles, reading. She seems to be in her fifties.


    She looks up from her book as they enter.


    ¡°Why hello there!¡± She says and stands up. ¡°I¡¯m Camille. And you¡­¡± She looks at the leopard. ¡°You are?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m Thalia Blair. And these are two friends who I brought along.¡± She gestures towards the wolf and the cat with an awkward smile, a little taken aback by the setting. Lisa tips her hat again.


    ¡°Please, don¡¯t be intimidated by where we are.¡± Camille says amicably. ¡°My family has been living in this house for a long time, I just couldn¡¯t move away, even when everyone else did.¡± There is a hint of sadness in the gecko¡¯s voice. She goes on about how she¡¯s been living her life here, having just that generator, her books, and her butler for a good while now, holding meetings like this.


    Solomon listens to her story intently, feeling like she was a little too quick to judge.


    ¡°Let¡¯s go upstairs and start our little discussion then.¡± Camille suggests. ¡°One at a time. I will just have some questions, you tell your tale, and we¡¯re done!¡± She then walks to the doorframe. ¡°Who wants to start?¡± She asks with a gentle smile.


    Thalia walks over to her.


    ¡°I could start, then.¡± The leopard shrugs, looking a little more relaxed.


    Lisa gives her a ¡°be safe¡± look and sits down on one of the sofas with Solomon. The sofa frankly feels mildly uncomfortable to her, a little too stiff and cool, likely from the lack of use and body heat from the gecko.


    ¡°Really, it shouldn''t take too long.¡± The sparrow begins to explain. ¡°Camille is just doing some research for her next book.¡±


    ¡°Yes, we saw that in the ad.¡± Solomon states, the butler just shrugs.


    ¡°She usually keeps her ideas a secret so people don¡¯t steal them.¡± He then grabs a plate. ¡°Tea, anyone?¡±


    ¡°No, thanks.¡± Solomon shakes her head, trying her best to be polite.


    ¡°Would be pretty fine, yeah.¡± Says Lisa.


    The butler nods and leaves the room.


    Solomon once again feels like she was too quick to judge. Although, Camille is currently the only resident of the ghost town. Who wouldn¡¯t get suspicious? But as it turns out, Camille is just a nice lady writing books. A pleasant surprise in her eyes.


    Just fifteen minutes later, Thalia comes down, Lisa having finished her tea.


    ¡°So, how was it?¡± Lisa asks.


    ¡°Camille just asked some questions, like she said she would. Nothing special. How¡¯s life in Lanolow and the like.¡± She shrugs. ¡°Who wants to go now?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll go.¡± Solomon stands up. ¡°I want to ask her a couple things as well, I hope she won¡¯t mind.¡±


    Solomon then makes her way upstairs, the same wallpaper covering the walls, and walks into the only room that has its door open. Camille waits for her and insists that she closes the door for Solomon, which she agrees to.


    ¡°So then, tell me about yourself a little, miss¡­¡± Says the gecko, realising that she never learned her name.


    ¡°It¡¯s Solomon. Roxanne Solomon.¡± The cat smiles, feeling relieved.


    ¡°Oh, very well then, Solomon. Tell me a little about yourself before we start.¡± Camille repeats herself, giving Solomon a sweet look, adjusting her spectacles.


    She thinks for a long moment.


    ¡°I come from France, I work as an investigator, I used to be an apothecary.¡± Camille nods as she says that, deliberately leaving out everything that has to do with magic. ¡°I wouldn¡¯t call my life all that exciting.¡±


    ¡°Very well! It¡¯s good to get to know you, Solomon.¡± Says Camille. ¡°Your friend told me a lot about her work and life in Lanolow. Would you care to say a couple words as well?¡±


    Solomon pauses and rubs her chin, a little embarrassed that there isn¡¯t much she can tell the gecko about the town.


    ¡°I¡¯ll be honest, it¡¯s only been a few months since I started living there, so¡­¡± She gives an uncomfortable smile.


    ¡°Maybe I¡¯m not the best person for this¡­¡±


    ¡°Oh, you don¡¯t have to worry.¡± Camille reassures her, taking notes. ¡°Are you adjusting well?¡±


    ¡°Well¡­¡± Solomon begins to say, thinking about what happened to her that can be called normal. ¡°Being bilingual certainly helps!¡± She shrugs.


    ¡°I see, I see.¡± Camille scribbles on her notebook. ¡°Any interesting places you happened to see in Lanolow?¡±


    ¡°Again, I haven¡¯t had a lot of time to properly look around.¡± Solomon explains. ¡°I¡¯m not sure what else to tell you, really.¡± She admits.


    ¡°Alright then, maybe tell me some of your life experiences while you were in France?¡± Camille suggests.


    ¡°If you insist!¡± The feline tugs on her gloves. ¡°I personally love chemistry. I would have preferred a job that¡¯s more directly related to it¡­ But I took what I could get.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s not a subject most people your age like.¡± Camille remarks. ¡°And this is why I hold these meetings! So many interesting people, waiting to tell their stories!¡±


    Solomon wouldn¡¯t exactly call herself interesting, but she appreciates the notion.


    ¡°What do you like about it? What is it that makes you so interested in it?¡± Asks the gecko.


    ¡°It¡¯s really a way to get to know how the world really works if you think about it.¡± Says Solomon, feeling less tense due to being able to talk about something she likes.


    And talk about it, she does, for way longer than she originally thought she would. From her first experiences with it in school to more complex reactions and how spectacular they can look, as well as the science behind it.


    ¡°Very well, Miss Solomon!¡± Camille says eventually, having written a good few pages in her notebook. ¡°That should be enough for this section. Do you want me to include your name?¡±


    ¡°So that¡¯s it?¡± Solomon inquires. ¡°Just a book about regular people?¡±


    ¡°Everyday people all have a story. I¡¯m just the one who listens.¡± Says Camille.


    ¡°I don¡¯t need you to include my name.¡± The feline dismisses the offer. ¡°I¡¯m not looking for fame or so.¡±


    ¡°Alright! In that case, we¡¯re done.¡± The gecko closes her notebook and stands up, ushering the cat outside. ¡°It was nice talking to you! Send in the last one.¡±


    ¡°A nice break from work life for sure!¡± Solomon nods and makes her way downstairs, thoroughly satisfied with how the meeting went.


    ¡°Took ya long enough.¡± Lisa remarks with a friendly grin. ¡°What¡¯d you tell ¡®er?¡±


    ¡°A lot, really.¡± Solomon sits down on an unoccupied sofa and smirks. ¡°Your turn now. Don¡¯t leave her waiting.¡±


    Lisa stands up and walks up to the first floor, cane tapping against the wooden stairs.


    Solomon thought she took her time with Camille. Lisa, on the other hand¡­ She spends about 20 minutes longer than she did. In the meantime, she converses with Thalia and a sleepy sparrow butler.


    Eventually, the wolf comes down, followed by a tired-looking gecko. The butler already left the room.


    ¡°I could send you the full story later if you¡¯re interested.¡± She offers with a sly smile.


    ¡°I think I¡¯ve heard enough, but thank you.¡± Camille says, shaking her head slightly as Lisa turns away.


    Solomon covers her mouth to hide her amused smile.


    ¡°Now, I got more than what I bargained for and it was wonderful to listen to you...¡± Camille goes to stand in the middle of the room, as if to announce something. ¡°But there¡¯s one more thing.¡±


    Lisa sits down on a sofa, lightly tapping her feet.


    ¡°I may not be all that young anymore, but I still have a discerning eye for certain people.¡± Camille puts her hands together. ¡°People that I want to help.¡±


    Solomon finds that endearing, figuring that the gecko will ask for a small donation for charity or so.


    ¡°People who are out of the ordinary, who need our help to understand what¡¯s going on with them, who I launched this campaign for!¡± She adjusts her spectacles and tugs on the fingers of her right glove, one by one.


    ¡°What exactly are you¡­ Referring to?¡± Thalia asks, looking nervous, which Solomon finds odd.


    ¡°It¡¯s simple to explain.¡± The gecko removes her glove. Solomon¡¯s eyes practically shine with excitement as she sees the pale blue markings in stark contrast with her green scales. ¡°We know our kind, after all.¡±


    Lisa quickly glances at Solomon, worried, then back at the gecko.


    The feline is quite elated. Finally! An agreeable Mystic One! Oh, the questions she¡¯ll have to ask¡­


    Thalia, however, is looking increasingly upset, fidgeting with her hands. ¡°What¡¯s with her?¡±


    ¡°Miss Blair.¡± Camille goes on and clears her throat. ¡°I can tell that you are special. So please, it would honour us if you could come back to our base of operations. You will be compensated greatly for your-¡±


    ¡°Shut up! SHUT UP!¡± The leopard shouts as she stands up.


    ¡°Thali?¡± Says Lisa, thoroughly taken aback. ¡°Hey!¡± She exclaims as Thalia forcibly takes the cane from her hands and points it at the gecko, something about what she said clearly having triggered something in her.


    ¡°Just please be patient, I¡¯ll explain!¡± Says Camille, looking surprised.


    ¡°Where do you plan on taking me? Some government prison?¡± Thalia says, mad with suspicion.


    ¡°No!¡± Camille takes a step back, holding out her arms in defence. ¡°We just want to know what you¡¯re capable of! It can¡¯t be easy living with this, we¡¯ll try to help!¡±


    ¡°You want to see what I can do?¡± Thalia lowers the cane with an incredulous chuckle, seemingly not trusting her one bit. ¡°Fine. I¡¯ll show you!¡±


    ¡°Please Miss-¡± Camille tries to defuse the situation as the leopard swings the cane, shattering the lightbulb, the room in but a dim darkness now. ¡°Oh dear¡­¡±


    ¡°Thalia!¡± Solomon pleads, her mind racing. ¡°Have you lost¡­ Your¡­ Mind?¡± She manages to say as the leopard drops the cane. Colour seems to visibly drain from her, her body becoming entirely dark, her face, featureless, as if looking at a crude mannequin.


    Lisa and Solomon stand up, all eyes fixed on the dark figure of Thalia.


    ¡°Please! I¡¯m not here to hurt you!¡± Camille states, terrified.


    ¡°Liar!¡± Thalia shouts, pointing a finger at the gecko as a gloomy darkness seems to spread from her, slowly covering the room. Solomon can hardly see a thing, even with her night vision, she can barely make out the silhouettes of people.


    ¡°Th-thali?¡± She hears the voice of a scared Lisa, followed by the soft sound of footsteps from her direction.


    ¡°Jean!¡± Camille shouts. ¡°I was right! She¡¯s true-¡±


    Thalia moves over to her at terrifying speed and holds onto the gecko¡¯s neck.


    ¡°I¡¯m not going anywhere.¡± Says the voice of Thalia. ¡°I¡¯m not going to be a part of whatever twisted experiments you have for me.¡±


    Solomon wants to do something, anything to help Camille, but she finds herself unable to, utterly frozen in fear. She doesn¡¯t understand what caused Thalia to have such an outburst, but she understands one thing: she¡¯s a Dark One, and a powerful one at that by the looks of it.


    ¡°Will you please just listen!¡± Camille tries to move, but Thalia holds her firmly.


    ¡°I know what you government dogs do to people¡­¡± Thalia utters as the gecko only struggles more, and tries to shake her head free. Lisa and Solomon dare not speak while she¡¯s like this.


    ¡°But¡­ We¡¯re¡­¡± Camille attempts to say as the leopard puts her other hand on the side of her head.


    CRACK. Thud. Is all that is heard in the darkness. With one quick motion, Camille is snuffed out along with Solomon¡¯s hopes for answers.


    The door is then opened, the butler standing in front of it.


    ¡°Miss Camille?¡± Says the sparrow. Solomon sees the room illuminated, as well as what looks like the silhouette of a leopard. Thalia hisses and shields herself from the light, retreating into the parts of the room that are still covered in this strange, fog-like, darkness that spread from her.


    Camille¡¯s body lies frozen over on the floor, Solomon is reminded of the tiger from the amusement park.


    With a quick lunge, Thalia jumps at the butler.


    Slash. Thud. Solomon can hear the sound of sizzling when Thalia is standing in light for a couple brief moments. She then retreats into the dark once more.


    Solomon pushes herself back against a wall, trying to make sense of what just happened. Neither she nor Lisa move, but the wolf just now opens her mouth, panting heavily, looking to be in great distress as she stares at Thalia.


    ¡°What.. The fuck¡­¡± She says, her voice breaking. ¡°Th-Thali?¡± She says in no more than a whisper as the door slams shut. Solomon could hardly see Thalia move to close it.


    The darkness then retreats back to Thalia, colour returns to her body in an instant. She falls down to her knees, the yellow and white in her fur having faded slightly, somehow looking more distraught than the two of them.


    Solomon can now really see just how scared Lisa looks. She wasn¡¯t sure what would happen, but this¡­ This certainly wasn¡¯t it. Lisa goes to reluctantly approach the leopard.


    ¡°Thali? What¡­¡± She starts.


    ¡°Listen, the less I talk about this, the better.¡± Thalia cuts her off. ¡°You can¡¯t possibly understand what that was. I wish you just forgot about it. I really didn¡¯t want you to see¡­ that.¡±


    ¡°No Thali.¡± Lisa shakes her head. ¡°Please, I¡¯m sure it would help if you talked about it.¡± She gets down on her knees and embraces the leopard, a tear rolling down her cheek, the fear in her eyes, gone.


    Solomon thinks back to her conversation with Thalia. That knowledge really changes her perspective on this, knowing that they weren¡¯t just friends.


    ¡°Maybe¡­¡± Thalia sniffles and returns the hug , then looks over at Solomon. ¡°Maybe it would.¡± Solomon sees Lisa¡¯s tail wag. The two let go of each other.


    ¡°But then again¡­ Maybe it¡¯s best if I don¡¯t say anything. I don¡¯t want you to burden you with information that may end up hurting you.¡± Thalia says with a sombre look. Lisa then indignantly rolls up her sleeve, showing off her marking.


    ¡°You sure, mate?¡± The wolf says with an ¡°I told you so¡± look.


    ¡°W-what?¡± Thalia looks visibly shaken.


    Lisa then glances over to Solomon. She understands what she wants her to do, she walks closer and shows Thalia her hands, gloves off. She may be afraid because of what just happened, but she still wants to help.


    Befuddled, Thalia looks at Solomon¡¯s green spiral markings, then back at Lisa.


    ¡°Both of you? But¡­ How?¡± She stands up.


    ¡°It¡¯s on my legs and back as well.¡± Lisa explains.


    Thalia shakes her head incredulously.


    ¡°Not sure what causes them to appear.¡± Lisa shrugs. ¡°But they did, and look where we ended up because of it.¡±


    ¡°Lisa¡­ Solomon¡­¡± Thalia sighs, looking regretful. ¡°I need to tell you something. Something I would like you to listen to. Something I¡¯ve been keeping secret for a long time. The reason why I did what I just did¡­¡±


    ¡°Go ahead. We¡¯ll listen.¡± Lisa says, caressing her face.


    ¡°Of course we will!¡± Solomon tries to sound encouraging.


    ¡°Truth be told¡­¡± Thalia begins. ¡±I¡¯m not even a leopard.¡±


    Solomon¡¯s ears perk up.


    Lisa looks decidedly more surprised.


    ¡°What?¡± The wolf looks her up and down. ¡°What are you then?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry I¡¯ve been lying to you¡­¡± Says Thalia, looking anxious about how they, but especially Lisa, might respond. ¡°But I didn¡¯t want you to get into trouble. My old life isn¡¯t something I want back, but I¡¯ll tell you this: I¡¯m a panther. I have changed my entire identity once.¡±


    Solomon walks over to them, bewildered.


    ¡°This, is just paint.¡± She holds out her arms. ¡°I paint myself every time I see it start to fade.¡±


    Lisa opens her mouth to speak, but nothing comes out. She shakes her head and looks to the floor.


    ¡°That¡¯s why I never wanted to go outside when it rained. It¡¯s sturdy enough, but it¡¯s paint, enough water will wash it off.¡± She takes a step back from her. ¡°Not to mention, activating this¡­ Thing only makes it fade faster.¡±


    ¡°Thali¡­¡± Lisa finally says after a couple seconds of silence.


    ¡°Lisa, I understand that you¡¯re upset¡­¡±


    Lisa then steps forwards and takes her hands in hers.


    ¡°It doesn¡¯t matter. What mattered to me, is you, Thali. I don¡¯t care about what you are, I care about who you are.¡± She says with a wide smile, which turns into a questioning look. ¡°But¡­ Why¡¯d you do that? That¡¯s pretty fuckin¡¯ illegal.¡±


    Solomon really feels like she should give them more privacy, but she absolutely needs to hear that story.


    Thalia squeezes Lisa¡¯s hands.


    ¡°You see¡­ Being a panther, my fur was entirely black. One day, I noticed that patches of even darker fur appeared all over my body. I thought it was just my coming of age, to be honest. The difference was very subtle, you could hardly see it with the naked eye.¡±


    Solomon thinks back to the first time she noticed the markings on her hands. She wishes it was that subtle. Thalia may just hold more answers than Solomon would have thought.


    ¡°It eventually covered my entire body.¡± Thalia continues, looking down and closing her eyes. Adelar¡¯s words come to Solomon¡¯s mind. ¡°The more it covers the body, the more powerful the magic is¡­ Just how powerful is she then?¡± She can briefly see a look of shock in Lisa¡¯s expression, which fades when Thalia opens her eyes. She must remember it as well.


    ¡°One day when I was walking home from work, I went into an alleyway for a shortcut.¡± She sighs, regretfully. ¡°That was a bad decision. I was approached by some shady-looking people in suits. They ordered me to go with them and how I¡¯d regret it if I didn¡¯t comply. I¡¯ve never been that scared in my life¡­ I didn¡¯t want to end up like Alan!¡±


    ¡°Alan?¡±


    Lisa wipes a tear from Thalia¡¯s eye.


    ¡°And that¡¯s when it happened¡­ All I saw was them panicking, looking around, as if not seeing anything. I could see just fine, of course. I felt a monumental power inside me¡­¡± She pauses for a good few seconds, taking a deep breath. ¡°And I killed them. All of them. I felt no sympathy, I felt nothing as their bones cracked.¡± She backs away from Lisa, as if she¡¯s afraid of hurting her, only to be pulled back. Lisa hugs her and pats her back.


    ¡°S¡¯alright, Thali. I¡¯m listening.¡± The wolf smiles tearfully.


    Solomon can¡¯t help but feel a little baffled. This isn¡¯t how Thalia described her earlier at all¡­ In fact, she¡¯s never seen her so emotional before. And from what she heard, neither has Thalia.


    ¡°And you know what? I still don¡¯t.¡± The panther continues as Lisa lets go of her. ¡°But when I went for the last one, that one almost escaped. I reached out from the darkness of the alleyway and pulled ¡®em back in. But the light¡­ It hurt. It burned.¡±


    ¡°Just like it did there when the door opened. But then¡­¡±


    ¡°It only hurts in that form, though.¡± Thalia admits through a sniffle. ¡°There¡¯s my answer!¡±


    ¡°But there was one problem: there were witnesses.¡± The panther goes on. ¡°I couldn¡¯t just keep on living that life after that¡­ So I changed my name, painted myself, posed as a leopard and changed just about everything about my life. I thought it all happened because of my connection to Alan, but given today¡¯s events¡­ I guess not.¡±


    ¡°That can¡¯t have been easy, Thali¡­¡± Lisa says sympathetically.


    ¡°Who¡¯s Alan?¡±


    ¡°And so, that¡¯s how I ended up here.¡± Thalia continues, finding it hard to keep eye contact with her former partner. ¡°I knew whatever that was can¡¯t have been natural. I didn¡¯t want to end up in some secret government prison!¡±


    ¡°Speaking of¡­¡± Solomon puts a hand on each of their shoulders. ¡°We should leave. If more of them come, we¡¯ll be in a really, really bad situation.¡± She didn¡¯t want to interrupt their heartfelt moment, but it seems like she¡¯s paying the most attention to the frozen body of the gecko. Thalia and Lisa look at Solomon, then one another, and nod.


    ¡°Yes. Let¡¯s get out of here.¡± Says Lisa.


    ¡°Promise not to tell anyone. If this gets out, I¡¯m not sure what I could do.¡± Thalia responds.


    ¡°Better yet, I¡¯ll tell you about somethin¡¯.¡± The wolf smiles at her. ¡°A lot of things we found out about magic.¡±


    Thalia smiles with tears in her eyes. She¡¯s not alone in this. None of them are.


    ¡°You¡¯re darkness, I¡¯m electric. Do you think you could tell me a thing or two about your power?¡± She inquires.


    ¡°One thing about it, for starters: I get stronger the darker it is, and since I create this darkness¡­ Yeah, it gets pretty strong. Like you¡¯ve seen. And if you¡¯re electric¡­¡± She puts a hand up to her chin.  ¡°Wasn¡¯t there a generator outside?¡±


    All of a sudden, Solomon really doesn¡¯t like where this is going. She would have preferred to ask Camille and Jean questions with the hopes of getting an answer about who they work for, but now there isn¡¯t much to be done there. She can¡¯t help pitying the two.


    Lisa retrieves her cane and briefly tells Thalia how her power works on the way out, how she can conjure electricity from her body, a lethal voltage if necessary. They walk to the generator outside, which is still running. It isn¡¯t too big, but it¡¯s enough to power the few light sources in the house. As per Thalia¡¯s advice, Lisa simply puts her hand on the generator and concentrates on it, more than herself. ¡°Very similar to how blessing works¡­¡± Nothing  happens at first.


    ¡°Doesn¡¯t seem to be wor-¡± Says Solomon.


    ¡°Hush!¡± Lisa interjects. ¡°I think I¡¯m getting there¡­¡±


    Moments later, the two watch as arcs of electricity go up Lisa¡¯s arm, then spread to the rest of her body. Solomon and Thalia take a few steps back just to be safe. She holds it there for a few more seconds, the arcs getting greater in size and number. The generator then shuts down, smoke coming out of it. Lisa however, retains the electricity.


    ¡°Didn¡¯t mean to fry the thing, to be frank¡­¡± She remarks, removing her hand from the generator, then takes a good look at the dead tree before the house with a wicked grin.


    ¡°No Lisa, that¡¯s a bad idea!¡± Says Solomon, but the wolf already has her arm outstretched, index finger pointing at the tree. She steps forward to stop her, but given how even being in close proximity to her would likely result in her death, she reconsiders very quickly.


    ¡°Focus Lisa! Channel it to your fingertip, let it happen naturally!¡± Thalia encourages her, which Solomon doesn¡¯t exactly approve of. It takes a few seconds, the crackling of electricity getting louder. It builds up in her fingertip and with a crack, a bolt of electricity shoots out from Lisa¡¯s finger. It hits the tree, which bursts into flames in an instant. Some branches break off, jagged, burnt lines are left on it. No trace of electricity remains around Lisa. She lifts her finger and blows on it, as if blowing the smoke from a gun¡¯s barrel.


    ¡°Now that was fuckin¡¯ A.¡± She says with a satisfied look. ¡°Bet that¡¯ll come in handy.¡±


    Solomon is left in awe as Thalia applauds. Is she the only sane one left in this town? Then again, she is haunted by possibly, no, definitely supernatural nightmares, so that¡¯s subject to change.


    ¡°Right mates, time to leave, yeah?¡± Lisa suggests. Solomon can hardly wait to leave the place.


    The three hide the bodies of the gecko and the sparrow by the shore, which just about sickens Solomon. They then get into the car and drive away. None of them even look back as they leave.


    ¡°So¡­ Can you promise me that you won¡¯t tell a soul?¡± Thalia asks, putting her hands together.


    ¡°I believe we agreed that we won¡¯t. Right, Rox?¡± Lisa looks back at the cat with a trusting smile.


    ¡°Absolutely. Your secret is safe with us.¡± She says with a reassuring look. ¡°Want us to look into these guys if we ever find out anything about them?¡±


    ¡°Oh, that would be just splendid.¡± Thalia takes out her phone.


    ¡°Who are you writing to?¡± Lisa asks.


    ¡°I¡¯m telling my boss, also known as Zeus, that I¡¯m NOT going in tomorrow. Not after this, no.¡±


    Solomon is only now taking in the reality of the situation, the effects of adrenaline and rather strong emotions having worn off. Her mind has enough dark figures to deal with as it is, but she¡¯s glad to see that there¡¯s one that doesn¡¯t chase her in her dreams.


    Either way, she can tell one thing about her friends: neither of them seem to feel any remorse or guilt about Thalia having killed two people. While she understands to an extent, Solomon feels a little on-edge.


    On the way back, Lisa and Solomon share the ever-opening secrets of magic with Thalia, including the different types and the patterns in which they generally manifest. Lisa even asks Thalia if she wants to join their investigation group, to which the answer is a definite no.


    Solomon ponders whether or not to tell the panther about the true nature of their workplace. Thalia seems trustworthy, but so did Camille at first. Though after everything she¡¯s told her¡­ She feels like she can trust her, but not with that information.


    They tell her about magic blessing and take guesses on how darkness may affect objects. She promises to tell them once she gets to trying it out herself.


    The trip back goes without any further incident, Lisa takes Thalia back to her home.


    Solomon asks if Lisa wants to stay at her place, as she¡¯d like to talk to her about a couple important things. She really just wants to show Lisa her acid-blessed room and discuss the day, as well as Alan. Which she still finds important all things considered.


    Solomon takes Lisa to her apartment and proudly presents her acid-immune garments.


    ¡°To be honest, it looks like any other clothing to me.¡± Says Lisa.


    With a slight frown, Solomon demonstrates that it indeed isn¡¯t destroyed by acid, which elicits a step back from Lisa.


    ¡°Never said I didn¡¯t believe you, now did I?¡± She says with a chuckle. ¡°But hey, it makes you feel proud. That definitely counts for something, yeah? I know how hard you took this whole magic thing to begin with.¡±


    Solomon smiles and gently wraps a red scarf around Lisa¡¯s neck.


    ¡°I think it looks good on you!¡± The two have a laugh, then converse about the day.


    ¡°It¡¯s hard to believe that Thali¡¯s another Mystic One.¡± Says Lisa. ¡°Yet I saw it with my own eyes¡­¡±


    ¡°Yeah¡­ Darkness. Never would have thought.¡± Solomon  agrees.


    ¡°You think I would have picked up on her being painted for those few years¡­ But I didn¡¯t. Would explain why she spent so long in the bathroom though.¡±


    Solomon recalls her conversation with Thalia.


    ¡°If you don¡¯t mind me asking¡­¡± Solomon starts. ¡°How come it didn¡¯t work out¡­ Between you two?¡± Lisa snaps her gaze towards her. Solomon prepares herself, thinking that maybe she shouldn¡¯t have asked that so bluntly¡­


    ¡°Oh come on, was it that obvious?¡± The wolf asks with a slight blush, not a hint of offence in her words. Solomon nods. Even without her talk with Thalia, it wouldn¡¯t have been hard to figure it out.


    ¡°Well, there was my house. She found it kinda creepy. I always found her and her place painfully ordinary.¡± She scoffs. ¡°Pretty ironic now, huh? Just the way I am could have had something to do with it too. I know I¡¯m a bit different, but that¡¯s just who I am. And that, I ain¡¯t gonna change.¡±


    Solomon takes mental notes. She can respect Lisa¡¯s commitment to her personality, even though refusing to change may be shallow. She has to admit, however, she wouldn¡¯t want her to change at all. She finds her little idiosyncrasies rather endearing at times.


    ¡°I think your house is pretty nice.¡± Solomon responds on a whim. ¡°Kind of comforting.¡±


    ¡°Thanks?¡± Lisa says with a slightly confused smile. ¡°Never was much of a lover, to be honest. Don¡¯t get me wrong, Thali¡¯s sweet, but it¡¯s better this way. Glad to still be friends, really.¡± Says the wolf, fiddling with her cane.


    ¡°Wish I could say that about my last partner. Now that didn¡¯t last long.¡± Says Solomon. She¡¯s all but forgotten about him. A cat, lasted a total of two weeks.


    ¡°It¡¯s better to just let go sometimes.¡± Says Lisa.


    ¡°Yeah¡­¡± Solomon agrees. ¡°I¡¯ll just find someone else!¡± She says, trying to sound confident.


    ¡°Oh, I bet.¡± Lisa chuckles. ¡°Someone like you? Shouldn¡¯t take long at all.¡±


    Solomon is unsure of how serious Lisa meant that, but it causes her to blush slightly regardless.


    ¡°And hey, you did find a use for your power!¡± Lisa adds upon seeing her reaction. ¡°Sure, you can¡¯t exactly charge things with it¡­ But it¡¯s still pretty neat.¡±


    Solomon gets the mental image of Lisa powering her house with just her magic, which she finds pretty entertaining.


    The two sit in the room for a few long, silent moments before Solomon makes a slight chuckle.


    ¡°What?¡± The wolf asks with a curious look.


    ¡°It¡¯s nothing, really.¡± Solomon responds, still chuckling a little bit.


    ¡°Okay, now you have to tell me.¡± Says Lisa, crossing her arms.


    ¡°Alright, fine. So, you¡¯re electric, right?¡± She starts, a mischievous smile in her expression.


    ¡°Yeah? What about it?¡± Lisa raises an eyebrow.


    ¡°And you signed up to be a detective¡­ So does that mean¡­¡± Solomon laughs heartily. ¡°Does that mean that we can call you WATT-son?¡±


    Lisa looks at the cat with extreme disappointment. Said cat is still laughing.


    ¡°Rox, next time you¡¯re at my house, remind me to tell you to leave.¡± She says in an authoritative tone, although more as a joke. Her response causes Solomon to fall in her bed, hands over her stomach, positively howling at her pun for a good ten seconds straight.


    ¡°Ya done?¡± Lisa finally asks.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, I just could NOT stop myself there!¡± She says with a sigh of relief.


    ¡°Evidently¡­¡± Lisa mutters, giving her a side-eye look.


    Solomon lies there, looking from the ceiling to Lisa, who is still frowning.


    ¡°I¡¯m really not sure how to bring this up, but¡­¡± She begins to say with a faded smile. ¡°Who¡¯s Alan?¡±


    ¡°Oh, Rox¡­¡± Lisa says with a serious, sullen look. ¡°An older friend of Thali¡¯s. It¡¯s a sore spot for her though, so please don¡¯t bring him up.¡±


    ¡°Uhm¡­¡± Solomon scoots over on her bed. ¡°Okay, I won¡¯t.¡± She decides not to push the subject, finding her curiosity sated for the time being. If Thalia doesn¡¯t like people talking about him, she¡¯ll respect that. After all, magic is now their mutual secret.


    ¡°Good!¡± Lisa smiles as she reaches out and pets the feline¡¯s head, which causes her to frown.


    ¡°That was unnecessary.¡± She complains, her tail swaying.


    ¡°Totally.¡±

 Chapter 7 - Removal

    Solomon¡¯s dreams still didn¡¯t get better over the week, despite her efforts. She kept wondering if things would ever improve. She became increasingly grateful for her friends, however, having found another. Them being there for her certainly made dealing with the dreams a lot easier.


    She started generally hanging out more and more after work, or training, depending on who was assigned to do what. She would even go and visit Thalia.


    Magical blessing yielded one interesting result. Lisa discovered that she can only bless objects that are normally conductive, which made sense to her, they would remain electrified even after she stopped actively holding them. They have yet to hear back from Yaroslav or Thalia, regarding it. Solomon was sure they would get to it eventually.


    The day has come, the day when they go to Lion¡¯s Den Parlour and hopefully find out more about this organisation and magic as a whole¡­ Without Solomon. Over the week, she regretted not telling any of them that she would have been happy to take their place or just go with them regardless, even though she was sure they could handle it by themselves.


    But it was decided, she would stay there at the station, holding the front with Adelar. Who was she to change what was agreed upon?


    ¡°Alright, everyone ready?¡± Adelar asks, looking confident in his employees. Or disciples, depending on how one would look at it. The three assigned all nod.


    ¡°Stay safe out there.¡± He says, his look turning more serious. ¡°We¡¯re not sure what to expect from them. And whatever you do, don¡¯t tell them what company you work for. The last thing we need is for them to know that.¡±


    ¡°You got it, boss.¡± Says Lisa, tipping her hat.


    ¡°Now then, I¡¯ll stay here with Solomon.¡± He glanced at the cat, then back at the three others. ¡°If things get out of hand, tell us and we¡¯ll be on our way.¡±


    With one more farewell from everyone, the three of them leave for Lion¡¯s Den.


    It¡¯s a slow day at Bird¡¯s Eye, no calls throughout most of it. Solomon is elated not having to deal with petty issues while her friends have a talk with alleged members of this mysterious organisation. Five hours into the shift, they finally get a call. Adelar sees that Solomon is less than happy about it.


    ¡°I¡¯ll handle it.¡± He says with a smile. ¡°You stay here. If it rings again, just say we don¡¯t have anyone available currently.¡±


    ¡°If you say so, Adelar.¡± Solomon gives him an amused look.


    ¡°Shouldn¡¯t take too long, I¡¯ll be back very soon.¡± He then goes to the front door.


    Truly, such a slow day at work¡­ It¡¯s as if people stopped calling a company meant to deal with serious matters, at least on paper, about the smallest of issues. If Solomon was in power, she would make it flat out illegal.


    Two hours later, Adelar still isn¡¯t back. Solomon writes him a message inquiring about his whereabouts. Just a couple minutes later, she gets a response.


    ¡°This has to be the most obnoxious person I have ever dealt with. Hold on for just a little longer.¡±


    Solomon isn¡¯t surprised per se, but the fact that these people can get under Adelar¡¯s skin is something she finds impressive in an absurd sort of way.


    No report back from her three colleagues either. Yes, the trip is long, but they must have not only arrived by now but have had a few words with them at least. She really wants to ask, but she decides against it, not wanting to risk doing that at the wrong time. She sure isn¡¯t used to this, just spending her day chatting with Thalia. ¡°Must be her day off.¡±


    She looks out the window to see the beautiful orange hue of the sunset. She then looks back at her phone and then quickly looks out the window again. ¡°Is that¡­ A person? Floating in the distance?¡±


    Solomon is sure she is seeing the black silhouette of a person just¡­ Floating in the air. Surely, someone would have noticed that outside, but given the distance from the general public of Lanolow¡­


    Her focus on it is broken by the sound of a car pulling up in front of the station. ¡°Speak of the devil.¡±


    Looking through the front window, she sees an unmarked, black car. She ducks down immediately


    Choosing to remain hidden, she peeks through the window and sees four people exit the vehicle and start walking up to the door. A snow lynx, a raccoon, a buffalo and an owl, all in regular, street clothing. Solomon finds the contrast between clothing and vehicle style extremely suspicious. ¡°Adelar didn¡¯t say anything about visitors¡­¡± She hears a knock at the door.


    Stolen novel; please report.


    Hiding under the window, she calls Adelar. He doesn¡¯t pick up, so she writes him a message for good measure.


    ¡°Adelar, some strangers just stopped by and they want to get in. There¡¯s something seriously off with them!¡±


    Another knock at the door. She wonders if they know that she¡¯s inside.


    ¡°They arrived in an unmarked car, what do I do, Adelar?¡± A short pause follows. Another knock, much louder this time. ¡°Can¡¯t you take a hint?!¡± Solomon goes to hide under the round table in the meeting hall, waiting, hoping for him to possibly respond.


    She looks up from under and notices that the person she saw floating is no longer there. She wouldn¡¯t be surprised if she was just seeing things, considering the things she went through. She hears quiet talking coming from outside. Needing to confirm what they¡¯re saying, she slinks up to the door and holds an ear against it.


    ¡°Are you certain that this is the right place?¡± Asks a deep, masculine voice.


    ¡°This is the only place called Bird¡¯s Eye Inc in the whole country. This is the place.¡± Says a more feminine voice.


    ¡°If no one comes out, I could pick the lock.¡± Says a different masculine voice. Solomon holds back a gasp.


    ¡°Let¡¯s give them¡­ Another minute. Then we do that.¡± She hears the feminine voice say.


    Solomon takes a step back from the door. ¡°Who are these people?¡± Either way, she can¡¯t let them in¡­ But they will come in after a minute. She could go down to the training room¡­ No, she can¡¯t just put the table back on top of the trapdoor if she goes down there. And then, they will find her easily. She could leave the trapdoor visible and hide somewhere else? No, she can¡¯t let them find out about where she trained her magic with her colleagues. ¡°What am I supposed to do?¡±


    ¡°Andreas, do you have visuals?¡± Solomon hears the feminine voice ask, followed by radio chatter she can¡¯t quite make out. ¡°Roger that.¡±


    The cat can feel her anxiety build up inside. Another knock at the door. She has no choice, they are willing to break in, but she can do one thing to avoid further suspicion.


    She opens the door.


    ¡°Sorry! I got a little busy with something. Good evening!¡± She says in the most natural voice she can muster, both of her hands are in her pockets as she greets them to appear more relaxed. Rather than the cold, unwavering expression she saw them have, the four now look to look decidedly more agreeable.


    ¡°Evening, madam.¡± Says the lynx. ¡°Do you work here?¡±


    Solomon pauses for a moment, wondering who exactly they are looking for.


    ¡°If you¡¯re looking for an investigator, well, we are all occupied. Also closing soon.¡± She says, feeling that it was about the best thing she could have said.


    ¡°Are you their boss?¡± The lynx asks. Solomon could lie¡­ But would it help her at all? Surely, they are more likely to have qualms with someone like Adelar, rather than her.


    ¡°No, I¡¯m just¡­ The secretary.¡± She manages to say.


    The snow lynx pauses and touches her forehead, as if realising something.


    ¡°Please excuse my manners.¡± She then reaches out for a handshake. Solomon takes out one hand from a pocket and shakes her hand, keeping eye contact. The raccoon raises an eyebrow as she looks her up and down.


    ¡°Shaquia Shanley from Von Leue Finances.¡± Says the lynx with a jovial expression. ¡°We would have liked to talk to Johannes Adelar, but if you¡¯re the secretary, you¡¯ll do as well.¡± Solomon feels at her wit¡¯s end. ¡°Why couldn¡¯t I just say janitor?¡±  The raccoon then whispers something to the lynx. She gives him an incredulous look.


    ¡°May we come in?¡± Now she¡¯s done it. If there was a chance to resolve this easily¡­ There still may be one yet.


    ¡°Of course! Feel free to check. I¡¯ll try to answer your questions to the best of my ability.¡± She says with a forced, cordial look. They all come into the station and sit down at the meeting hall, except for Shaquia, who stays outside to write a quick message.  Solomon just realised that she never gave her name, but maybe that¡¯s for the better. Shaquia soon comes inside as well.


    ¡°The place could use a renovation.¡± The lynx remarks. She walks over to the window in the meeting hall, Solomon sits down at the table as well.


    ¡°You don¡¯t mind me letting some air in, do you?¡± Shaquia asks. Solomon shakes her head, urging them to sit down. She wants this to be over soon. The lynx opens the window, it opens fully with no resistance, but with a creak.


    ¡°So, we¡¯re here to inquire about where exactly the company gets money from.¡± Says the raccoon. Solomon isn¡¯t even sure what to say, she knows next to nothing about finances.


    ¡°Well, you see¡­¡± She begins.


    All of a sudden, she feels a slight, but noticeable, sharp pain in the left side of her neck, from the direction of the open window. She quickly puts a hand on the source, and feels something. She pulls off whatever caused it and inspects it in her hand. It¡¯s a dart.


    She notices something that worries her much more, however, her glove slid off slightly. It must have happened when she pulled it out of that pocket, the part of the marking that wraps around her wrist is clearly showing.


    Just then, the world starts spinning with her. She supports herself on a wall, looking out the window and sees it, the floating person, now much closer, and descending, walking down the air, seemingly.


    She looks around the room, her vision blurring quickly. The four people are standing at different parts of the station, all to block any exit. ¡°No¡­ Not like this¡­¡± Her vision starts to fade as she hits the floor. She hears one last thing before going completely unconscious: ¡°Sire, you are not going to believe this.¡±

 Chapter 8 - Within

    Solomon is starting to wake up, still feeling like her head is spinning. She tries to look around, but can hardly see anything through blurred vision. She blinks once, twice, and can then make out the vague shape of people around her. She sees a blotch of silver, one of grey and white, and one that¡¯s all white. She shakes her head and blinks more.


    ¡°She¡¯s awake!¡± She hears a voice say. One more blink and she can see mostly clearly. She tries to move, but she just now sees that she¡¯s strapped to a chair, her gloves off. The person in white, who turns out to be wearing a lab coat, inspecting the markings on her hands. He runs off to a table and grabs a syringe.


    ¡°No. That¡¯s not happening.¡± Her markings light up and through the sounds of intense sizzling, the arms of the chair melt enough to free herself in a second. The person in the lab coat tries to approach her, but she scares him away by holding her hand in his general direction. She then frees her legs and stands up, looking around the room, ready to reduce any would-be attacker to a black liquid. The room itself is packed with medical equipment and medicine that Solomon recognises, from simple vitamins to strong painkillers, she sees just about everything.


    ¡°Fibreglass doesn¡¯t work.¡± Says lab coat. ¡°Noted.¡±


    Solomon wonders if the same happened to her friends, as much as she doesn¡¯t want that to be the case. She feels scared, but ready for a fight, oddly angry deep inside.


    Solomon can¡¯t even make out what lab coat is exactly due to the mask he¡¯s wearing. Looking at the other two, she recognises the lynx and sees who the silver blotch was, a grizzled-looking wolf with silver fur and suit, sitting on a chair backwards. Unlike the other two, he looks completely calm.


    ¡°Where am I?¡± Solomon finally asks, feeling tense. She is met with no answer. ¡°Where. Am I?¡± She asks again and sees the lynx tugging at the wolf¡¯s suit.


    ¡°That doesn¡¯t matter.¡± Says the wolf, mockingly unbothered. ¡°What matters is that you¡¯re here, with us.¡±


    Solomon really doesn¡¯t like the sound of that, nor the way he said it, nor anything about her situation.


    ¡°Let me guess, you¡¯re interested in this?¡± She holds out her arms, the back of her hands showing, the acid not so quietly drip drip dripping onto the floor. The person in the lab coat takes a step back, the other two do not. They aren¡¯t nearly as afraid of her as all the others were before.


    ¡°That¡¯s just the beginning. Please, make everyone¡¯s job easier, and cooperate.¡± The wolf stands up. ¡°You have no idea how important that is for my organisation. So stop resisting and give it to us.¡± Solomon feels the sense of anger rise within her, she finds what he said downright offensive. Give it to them? As if it¡¯s that easy!


    ¡°Who are you? What organisation? How would you even-¡± She demands, but is cut off.


    ¡°The less you know, the better. Now, calm your power so we don¡¯t have to get rough.¡± He then scowls at lab coat. ¡°A little too quick to act there.¡±


    Needless to say, Solomon doesn¡¯t trust anyone in this room in the slightest.


    ¡°I just want to know¡­ Where I am.¡± She says, trying to calm herself.


    ¡°Stop your acid and I¡¯ll show you.¡± The wolf replies.


    Shooting a menacing glare at the other two in the room, her markings stop glowing, her hands stop secreting acid.


    ¡°Good. Don¡¯t worry, you won¡¯t have it for long.¡±  He says in a voice which Solomon finds outrageously condescending.


    There it is again¡­ Such anger, deep within her. It¡¯s short-lived, but noticeable. ¡°Can they really do that? Take my magic?¡± In all honesty, she wouldn¡¯t mind too much, but she considers if she could really give it up so easily after all that she went through.


    ¡°Follow me.¡± Says the wolf with a beckoning gesture.


    Solomon follows from a safe distance, baring her claws, or rather, her markings every time the other two come too close for her liking. They walk down a rather short hallway until they are met with a metal door. The wolf opens it, light comes through. Solomon shields her eyes from it, then looks through¡­


    The edifice she seems to be inside of is massive. Multiple floors, each of them having dozens of people in suits walk around, clearly knowing exactly where to go from what she can tell. The walls look metallic, the floors more ceramic. She can see six floors just from there. Looking up, a large, open space lets her see the floors clearly, there are walkways on each wall of the building, having railings at the edge. She sees four lifts and a wide set of stairs on each side of them. In her opinion, it was likely designed with efficiency and ostentatiousness in mind.


    ¡°Welcome to The System, Acid One.¡± Says the wolf with a smile. ¡°My greatest achievement, my pride and joy.¡± She looks down at the awestruck Solomon. ¡°But you won¡¯t need to stay here for long.¡±


    It takes Solomon a few seconds for it to really sink in. This is it, the organisation Grayson must have been a part of! The System... And there she is, right in the middle of it. She''s not only been found, but taken right to the base as well.


    "How are you planning to take my magic?" She inquires, the mere idea sending a faint ripple of anger through her body.


    "The less you know, the better." The wolf repeats himself. She only heard this sentence twice, but she''s already quite sick of it.


    "Just do as we instruct. Then you''ll be free to go and we can forget about this whole thing." Says the wolf with an aggressively patronising smirk.


    "What if I don''t want to give it up?" Solomon isn¡¯t confident whether her question is going to antagonise him or not.


    The wolf looks at her curiously. Then laughs.


    "I''m afraid that''s not an option." That response is certainly better than what she expected, but she just has to wonder... Sure, she''ll be safe after this, if what he''s saying is true, but what about her colleagues? The implications terrify Solomon.


    "How much do you know about me?" She asks sternly.


    "Oh, that, I can answer.¡± He says, pride and power in his mannerism. ¡°Everything we need to know."


    Solomon looks up at the wolf, eyes wide open.


    "That being?" She asks with a rather unamused look, which elicits a chuckle from the wolf.


    "Your name, your country of origin, your former and current workplace, who you work with..." He goes on, smiling.


    Solomon feels bewildered.


    "How did you find that information?" She asks, stepping in front of him. The smile on his face turns to a frown.


    "Let''s just say that a little birdie said a bit more than we expected. Or rather, canine."


    Solomon feels like he used those vague terms on purpose, as she has two canine colleagues. She doubts that they would sell her out. The important part is that they know. They know who she works with, her friends, they could be in danger as well! She makes up her mind right then and there.


    "But that''s enough talk.¡± He points at two symbols painted on the ground. ¡°Go stand on the symbol on the left." Both are circular, the left one has vaguely arrow-shaped parts pointing outwards among intricate, symmetrical designs, the other having the same but inwards.


    "I want to make a deal with you." Solomon blurts out, much to the wolf''s surprise.


    "Oh? And what would that be?" He asks with an inquisitive look.


    "I will give you my magic." She says, loud enough for more than just him to hear it. She isn''t sure what this organisation might use it for, but if it means... "On one condition. That you leave ALL of us alone after that. Me, my colleagues, and my boss. Promise never to come after us and you can have it. That''s the deal." She says, gaining the attention of others.


    The wolf laughs heartily.


    "Really?" He responds with a smirk. "Well if that''s the price, then simply stand where I told you. I am a man of my word."


    Solomon is well aware of the dangers of doing this, she could just get lied to, but she has to try, she just has to, for her friends. She may lose her magic, but that''s a price she''s willing to pay.


    She walks over to the symbols and stands on the left one. From the masses that gathered around, a black cat has been observing her. He steps forwards and stands on the other symbol. He seems to be around the same age as her.


    "What a joyous day!" He exclaims. "Fire mixed with acid! I''ll be the first, my name will be put in the Ledger!" He says, pulling up his sleeve to reveal orange markings. Solomon couldn''t care less. She wants it to be over, she wants to be free.


    But there''s that inside her again, that feeling of burning hatred¡­ Yet it feels so indescribably different. She isn¡¯t angry, per se, which just feels bizarre.


    "Do you have any idea of what you''re about to give up?¡± Says the cat, way too excited for Solomon''s liking. ¡°When the announcement came through, we couldn''t even believe it! And I shall claim it, this is like winning the lottery!"


    Solomon scoffs and dismisses him entirely.


    "Members of The System. It is with great pleasure that I inform you, the splicing of the Acid One shall begin soon! Come one, come all, as they say. Witness history!" A voice says through the intercom. Solomon rolls her eyes. "This is a VERY big deal for you, isn''t it?"


    Soon, the person in the lab coat comes to the hall with a knife in his hand.


    "Ready?" He asks, looking from one cat to another.


    "Ready as I''ll ever be, sir! I am honoured!" Says the cat with extreme glee, giddy with excitement.


    "I guess." Says Solomon.


    Lab coat nods, takes the hand of the other cat, and draws blood from his palm. He repeats the same with Solomon, albeit much more carefully. He then takes a step back. The wolf watches eagerly with his underlings as the cat then reaches out with his bloody hand.


    "Go on! Give it a grasp!" He says, visibly excited.


    Solomon grabs his hands, they both squeeze. The symbols they stand on light up, a satisfied grin stretches across the wolf''s face, as well as the black cat¡¯s, the crowd watching in awe as whatever magic is at work happens.


    Solomon looks into the other cat''s eyes and feels intense resentment towards him. It''s the same as before, but much stronger¡­ Yet strangely alien. She feels an urge, a powerful compulsion to dissolve someone so far beneath her for even attempting to do this. She then grasps her forehead with her other hand, slightly shaking it.


    The symbols go out under them, the male cat takes a step back.


    "Oh, I can feel it already!" He says, looking at his hand. Solomon looks down at her hands, only to discover that the markings are still there, completely intact, the feeling of anger lightly lingering. She isn''t the only one to notice that, several others have puzzled looks all over the "audience" that gathered. The wolf raises an eyebrow and whispers something to the lynx. Then, Solomon hears soft sizzling, rapidly getting louder. Not of metal or wood or ceramic, but flesh.


    "Is it supposed to hurt this much?" The black cat says in a distressed tone, taking a few steps back from the symbols. He grasps his hand, then pulls away with a yelp.


    His hand, a horrible sight, bubbling over with dark green liquid, turning into a mix of acid and black sludge dripping down onto the floor. Through agonised, panicked breathing, he turns to look at the wolf, who seems just as horrified as Solomon feels, along with the rest of the people around.


    "What¡¯s happening?!" Whatever effect this ritual had quickly goes up his arm, which soon falls off and dissolves into a black puddle. Solomon watches in horror along with the quietly theorising crowd, no one works up enough courage to approach him. It''s like watching a train derailment, she really wants to look away, but simply can¡¯t bring herself to do it. The black cat takes a couple more steps towards the wolf.


    Stolen from its rightful author, this tale is not meant to be on Amazon; report any sightings.


    "Ludwig! Make it stop¡­!" He manages to yell out, his feet becoming one with the black puddle under him. His speech becomes no more than screams, and in turn, the screams become an eerie silence broken only by the sound of sizzling and gurgles as he falls over face first. Within seconds, there is nothing left of him but a fine, black puddle.


    Solomon falls to her knees, gently weeping. This wasn''t supposed to happen, even she can tell that much. She looks over at the wolf and just like the rest of the people in the hall, he looks deeply distraught.


    "What did you do to him?!" Someone in the crowd yells out finally, followed by whispers that Solomon can¡¯t hope to make out. She just shakes her head. She did as she was told¡­


    "This is no cause for concern¡­¡± Says the wolf, stepping forward, trying to hide the fact that someone just got dissolved before their eyes. ¡°We just found out that acid is incompatible with fire. And it seems to have... Quite the reaction." He says, somehow looking confident in what he''s saying. "We will repeat it on a regular person after cleanup. Once the magic is in our possession, we can experiment to our heart''s content. Any volunteers?"


    The hall falls so silent, one could hear a needle being dropped. To no one¡¯s surprise, no one volunteers.


    "Come on, one of you has to be interested!¡± The wolf yells out, Solomon can tell that he¡¯s getting impatient. ¡°You!" He points at another canine, who is very evidently a janitor. He points at himself questioningly.


    "Think of this as a promotion." The wolf then walks over to Solomon.


    "Come now, stand up.¡± He says to the horribly disturbed Solomon. If the death of the jackal left her traumatised, then she isn¡¯t even sure how to properly describe how what just transpired will affect her.


    ¡°We do this and you and your friends will be safe. Remember?" He says, patting her head. Solomon feels a sudden urge to melt this wolf into a similar puddle. This downright patronising, positively annoying, and exceptionally smug silver wolf¡­ For a fraction of a second, she wants him not just killed, but destroyed, just like that black cat.


    The thought doesn''t linger for long, but she can''t deny that it was there. She wipes tears from her eyes and nods as she tries her best to collect herself. Such a terrible way to go... She''s not even sure what exactly happened, but she pities the cat greatly, hoping that what the wolf said is correct.


    After the black puddle is promptly cleaned up, the janitor goes to stand in front of her with the terrified look she''s come to be all too familiar with. Lab coat comes back and repeats the process of drawing blood. Solomon holds out her hand, wishing this to just be over. ¡°Please let him be right¡­¡±


    The janitor grasps it reluctantly, the symbols under them light up once more. Solomon can immediately feel that sense of burning hatred again. Even though it feels ever so slightly less intense, she feels like this attempt won¡¯t end well either. After a few seconds, the symbols go out. She looks at her hands... The markings are still there.


    Sizzle. The noise she¡¯s grown to hate, the sizzling of flesh, meaning the certain agony of someone. The janitor looks down at his hand, his expression turns to that of sorrow as he tries to hold in his screams. Solomon can''t bear to take two lives in this manner, even if it wasn¡¯t her intent. She has to try... She lunges forward and grabs the janitor''s wrist.


    "Sorry..." She mutters as her marking lights up. The janitor no longer holds back and howls in pain, her acid eating through his flesh. His hand soon falls down and dissolves... But it seems to have stopped there. It worked! He will live!


    The janitor collapses onto the floor, softly crying. The wolf goes from puzzled to furious, stepping forward to look at Solomon.


    "Why?! Why isn''t it working?!" He yells, the crowd looks on in confusion. "Did you do something?" He accuses Solomon, stepping in front of her as medics take away the janitor on a stretcher. The notion that she would willingly inflict such pain sickens her to her very core.


    "Why? Why would I do anything here?" She says with a glare. "Ludwig?" She adds indignantly.


    Ludwig storms off.


    "Take her away, Shaquia! I need to think... And you!" He points to lab coat. "You better come up with a good explanation for this..."


    The lynx walks over to Solomon, evidently shaken, but keeping calm.


    "Come." She says. "Looks like the deal''s off."


    "Off?¡± Solomon grabs the lynx''s arm, stopping her. ¡°The deal''s off? How was I supposed to know that this would happen?" She scowls at Shaquia, who looks back at her with, to her surprise, a more annoyed than fearful expression. ¡°She¡¯s not afraid after that? That¡¯s¡­ That¡¯s rather welcome.¡±


    "Let''s go then. I don''t want to be here." She looks down and releases the lynx¡¯s arm.


    Solomon is taken to the lifts. From up here, she¡¯s even more intimidated by the sheer size of the building and the number of other Mystic Ones. So many different markings, some even having two different types? She even catches a glimpse of Shaquia¡¯s, thinking back to what Grayson said. The lynx apparently has both fire and wind? This place only makes Solomon have a lot more questions.


    She figures that the ground floor is more for gatherings and general announcements. That theory is quickly shut down by the various loudspeakers and intercoms. The first floor looks identical to the second, doors opening and closing. Inside the rooms, she sees people work on intricate-looking machines, working with chemicals, and mostly, using their magic.


    She is then taken to a room on the fourth floor. "Room 48" the plaque on the door reads. The lynx unlocks the door and urges Solomon to go in.


    "I know you can just melt the lock, but for the sake of us both, please don''t do that.¡± She says, looking somewhat sympathetic. ¡°Just stay here until further notice, okay?"


    "Sure, sure." Solomon gives a disheartened response.


    "Have a rest.¡± Shaquia suggests with a nod. ¡°I don''t know when, but someone will be back to check on you later." She then closes the door.


    The room is actually quite nice and clean, spotless even. Wooden floor with a soft carpet, a single-sized bed, a nightstand, a closet and an intercom. There is a painting on the wall above the bed, a plaque under it reading "Trust The System''''. Solomon rolls her eyes.


    The painting itself looks quite well-made, depicting Ludwig in the middle, next to him are Shaquia, the raccoon she saw earlier, a crow, an ox and a lioness all wearing elegant suits. There is unused space on the painting where two more people could be put.


    She checks her pockets. Of course, her phone was confiscated. What surprises her more is that her gloves are also missing. With nothing else to do, she lies down on the bed, which is admittedly rather comfortable, and thinks¡­


    What could she do? Her first instinct is to try to break out, but given the number of people in the building, that just seems impossible. Not to mention, she would rather not do that by causing fear and living up to the legends. She is different and she can prove it! But what then? The best she can likely do here is comply, as much as she is against that.


    And her power, all she can do is produce acid and apparently melt people who try to ¡°take it¡±. What makes that so special and destructive? For one, she would like to hear those legends in detail.


    She really hopes that her friends are safe at least. Having no way to confirm that bothers her greatly, she would be willing to give a lot for a simple yes or no to that question. She wishes someone was there to comfort her, someone she can trust and talk to¡­ ¡°Someone like Lisa.¡±


    Solomon¡¯s eyes start to feel heavy, now that the shock and adrenaline have worn off, at least partially. She may have been knocked out, but she doesn¡¯t feel rested at all. Maybe she should just listen to that lynx and sleep¡­ Why she was taken to such a particularly nice room, she doesn¡¯t quite understand. She guesses that all of the rooms are like this, or maybe because of her power.


    Time passes without as much as a knock on her door, she wishes she had a clock in the room. She has calmed down, at least as much as she could in a situation like this. Just a little nap¡­ Surely it can¡¯t hurt. She closes her eyes and very soon, she finds herself in the all too familiar dreamscape.


    ¡°There has to be a way to beat this thing¡­¡± Every time, it¡¯s the same. The figure reaches out, she wakes up. This time, rather than run, she goes to a wall and just sits down by it.


    Soon, she spots the figure, fast approaching. Solomon doesn¡¯t move, doesn¡¯t try to run away. She¡¯s done running. It wants to catch her? So be it. It couldn¡¯t seem to do that thus far, why would this time be different?


    Without stopping, the figure walks up to her and reaches out with its dripping hand¡­ Like clockwork, Solomon wakes up, having gotten ever so slightly desensitised to the experience.


    ¡°What if I go back to sleep now?¡± This is as good of a time as any to test that. She closes her eyes and very soon, she is back, in the same place she just was, she can see the figure walking away. It then stops and turns around. Solomon is sure that if it had any proper expression, it would look surprised. It then walks up to her and reaches out again. Just like last time, just like every time, she wakes up just before it touches her. She would prefer to know how much time passes between each waking. One more time for sure¡­


    She is once again in the dreamscape, same location, the figure walking away. It then stops and turns around. Solomon waves at it casually. It then starts walking towards her, faster than last time.


    ¡°Why even bother?¡± Solomon asks out loud. She swears she can see it pause for just a moment, but it ends the same way, she wakes up. She spent so much time running from it, but it always seemed to know exactly where she was. That doesn¡¯t seem to have changed.


    She feels rather well-rested now at least, somewhat interested in looking into this more¡­


    Just then, her door opens, she sees that Shaquia is back.


    ¡°Ludwig requests your presence. You should oblige.¡± She says and beckons Solomon with a disinterested look. She gets out of bed and follows. ¡°Maybe if I go along with them this will be easier¡­¡±


    She is then escorted back down to the ground floor. Now taking a better look at it, she concludes that the building has to be even bigger than it appears. Where she is, is akin to a hub area, doors leading to various other sections, signs prominently displaying where the doors lead. She sees doors leading to a cafeteria, control centre, and warehouse. There are many more doors, but she can¡¯t quite read them from afar. She spots the two symbols on the floor, all of the black liquid has been cleaned up. She shudders at the thought of how that cat must have felt in his final moments.


    ¡°How long was I inside?¡± Solomon asks with a sullen look.


    ¡°About four hours.¡± Shaquia responds.


    ¡°All of that took four hours¡­ And yet I¡¯m rested, mostly. Well then.¡±


    She is then taken to what can be described as an ordinary office room with a metal desk, cabinets, and a computer at another table with various office equipment. There, Ludwig awaits her.


    ¡°Take a seat.¡± He says with a stoic expression. She sits down opposite to him on a chair that was prepared in advance. Shaquia nods and leaves the room.


    ¡°What do you want?¡± Solomon asks, still rather disgruntled and disturbed by the recent events.


    ¡°First of all, please excuse my outburst earlier.¡± He slightly turns in his chair. ¡°It was a bad first impression.¡±


    ¡°Tell me about it¡­¡± Solomon sighs.


    ¡°I believe a proper introduction is in order.¡± The wolf then holds out his hand. ¡°I am Ludwig von Leue. Head of The System¡± Solomon debates whether or not to even shake his hand, but in the end, she does.


    ¡°Roxanne Solomon. You have some gut, I¡¯ll give you that. Shaking hands with a fabled Acid One.¡± She says, a palpable hint of sarcasm in her tone.


    ¡°About that¡­¡± Ludwig begins to say. ¡°I held a short meeting with my best experts. By all means, the magic should have been transferred. We both know how that ended.¡±


    Solomon certainly doesn¡¯t need a reminder.


    ¡°So, as head of the organisation, I have an offer for you.¡± The wolf clears his throat. ¡°We can offer you whatever accommodation you need, in exchange for your service.¡±


    Solomon feels like his offer definitely doesn¡¯t come from generosity.


    ¡°You couldn¡¯t take my magic, so now you need me.¡± She states, seeing right through him, she feels like. ¡°Now, since I¡¯m so uninitiated, mind telling me a bit about this ¡°organisation¡± of yours?¡± If the wolf will do anything to get her to stay, she might as well get the most out of it.


    ¡°I will tell you what you need to know, and much more. If you accept, that is¡­¡± Says Ludwig, holding his hands together.


    ¡°What should I expect?¡± Solomon asks.


    ¡°Since we don¡¯t know how long it would take to figure out what exactly caused that whole scene¡­ You shall work for us.¡± He says with a smile that he certainly intends to be charming, rather than forced. ¡°You will help us eradicate a cult that¡¯s been causing us no end of trouble.¡±


    ¡°Oh, aren¡¯t you just the smiling murderer.¡±


    ¡°I assume that¡¯s the Lightborn?¡± Solomon raises an eyebrow.


    ¡°Why yes.¡± He says with a hint of surprise in his voice. ¡°You already know more than I expected.¡±


    Solomon feels slightly insulted by that remark.


    ¡°It seems like your power isn¡¯t quite like it was said to be in the legends.¡± Solomon perks her ears at what he just said. ¡°If it was so, there would have been quite a scene already.¡±


    ¡°I would greatly appreciate it if someone, anyone told me what these legends are.¡± Solomon puts her hands on the desk, displaying her markings. ¡°All I can do is produce acid from my hands. It can melt anything except glass from what I¡¯ve found, and I don¡¯t think it warrants legends by itself.¡±


    ¡°So the legends are true¡­¡± A smile stretches across Ludwig¡¯s face. ¡°At least the more accepted part is. Anything, you say? Except glass?¡±


    Solomon nods.


    ¡°Excellent. In that case, what you can expect is to reach your full potential here. Do you accept?¡± He asks with an expectant look.


    ¡°I¡¯m not saying anything until you let me in on these legends.¡± Solomon says with an indignant glare. The wolf seems to be getting more impatient.


    ¡°Fine. You want the legends? I¡¯ll give you the short answer.¡± He begins. Solomon smirks, satisfied that now, she¡¯ll find out more. ¡°There is no official record on the Acid Ones, only the legends passed down by generations. We do not know why that is.¡±


    ¡°Official records? Where would they keep information on magic?¡±


    ¡°Acid Ones are said to be evil and deceitful with hearts of stone. Their immense power begins only as dripping acid, manifesting every one hundred years in a person that it selects. As I said, generally within naturally evil individuals.¡± Solomon holds out her palm, gesturing for him to stop..


    ¡°Hold on, evil?¡± She says, aggravated. ¡°I¡¯m not evil!¡±


    ¡°It is what the legends say.¡± The wolf continues. ¡°This power will eventually grow to a terrifying scale, able to level entire buildings.¡± Solomon recoils. No¡­ She isn¡¯t like that. She could never do that! She¡¯s not evil, she just wants to be free of this!


    ¡°You will get honour and respect in our organisation if you choose to cooperate. You will become an esteemed member, feared by all. All you have to do is help us take care of the Lightborn. What do you say?¡±


    Solomon thinks for a few, long moments, she isn¡¯t fond of the idea whatsoever. She may have the power, but she has no idea how to use it in the way it was described. That may change, however¡­ But she doesn¡¯t want to be feared. And yet, here she is, being asked to extirpate a cult.


    ¡°What do you say?¡± Ludwig asks again with a subtle, low growl. Solomon doesn¡¯t hesitate with her answer.


    ¡°On one condition.¡± She says, feeling like the wolf already knows what it will be. ¡°Once I do that, you leave us all alone. I don¡¯t want anything to do with your organisation after it.¡±


    The smile fades from Ludwig¡¯s face.


    ¡°I cannot do that. I can let the others go freely, but you¡­¡± He looks him up and down and reaches to touch her marking, only for Solomon to cross her arms. ¡°You are too important. Such power shouldn¡¯t go unused.¡±


    ¡°Then I¡¯m not helping you.¡± Solomon shakes her head.


    Ludwig exhales deeply.


    ¡°Then let us agree to disagree.¡± He slightly spreads his arms to shrug, elbows touching the metal desk. ¡°I will not need you to be here at all times, but every now and then, we will call you in. That is the most I can do.¡±


    ¡°How often would that even be?¡± If it means peace for her friends at least, she¡¯ll do it. Surely, as long as it isn¡¯t too frequent.


    ¡°Alright. Deal.¡± She then reaches out for a handshake, which the wolf accepts, looking extremely pleased with her answer.


    ¡°Very well. You will start tomorrow.¡±

 Chapter 9 - Pressure

    Solomon feels like she has yet to grasp the full extent of the situation she¡¯s in, having just signed up to eradicate a cult.


    ¡°Show her around, please.¡± Ludwig says after calling in Shaquia. ¡°Follow standard procedure.¡±


    The lynx nods.


    ¡°One more thing.¡± Solomon says as she stands up. ¡°My colleagues. They need to know I¡¯m safe¡­ Mostly. I request to tell them-¡±


    ¡°Request denied.¡± Sas the silver wolf, shaking his head. ¡°We will handle that for you. Very soon.¡±


    Solomon nods, but she decides that she will find out what that message is by herself if she needs to.


    With one more toothy grin from Ludwig, she follows Shaquia outside the office. The lynx then takes her around the facility.


    She learns that the ground floor indeed serves as a central area, connecting other parts of the even larger building. ¡°Where even is this building? Am I still in Britain?¡± Other than that, the main building itself serves two more purposes. The first three floors are for experimentation and research, the next three floors are the sleeping quarters ¡°and else¡± as it is described by the lynx. The ground floor connects into a training area for both magic and physical training, the cafeteria, the warehouse, a waiting room and main entrance, an electrical room and others that Solomon is told not to enter for now. Those doors are unmarked. Them and the warehouse look especially well-guarded.


    ¡°There¡¯s a bathroom on every floor, complete with a shower.¡± Shaquia says in a neutral tone. ¡°We want our employees to work comfortably.¡±


    Solomon already has the day planned out with this new information.


    As she walks with Shaquia, various employees give her looks of fear, admiration, and even envy.


    ¡°So, how exactly do you plan on finding out my power¡¯s true potential?¡± Solomon inquires.


    ¡°We¡¯ll get there in time.¡± The lynx begins to say. ¡°You just-¡±


    ¡°Give me an actual answer!¡± The cat cuts her off in an indignant voice. ¡°Since you need me so much apparently, don¡¯t you think I should at least know beforehand?¡±


    Shaquia shakes her head in response. Sure, Solomon was told that they¡¯re secretive, but why to this extent if they need her?


    She asks about where her phone might be held and, as she expected, gets no answer. ¡°They really don¡¯t want me contacting the outside world.¡±


    And that¡¯s her tour around the edifice. She wasn¡¯t shown much explicitly, but she knows enough not to get lost. She begins walking over to the cafeteria, practically starving, only to see Ludwig with a letter in his hand. She wants to follow and see where he could be going, but the lynx is still with her. She sees him go out to the waiting room where the main entrance is. She takes a mental note. ¡°I¡¯ll get my message out. Eventually.¡±


    ¡°Let me guess, this is part of this so-called standard procedure?¡± Solomon asks with a frown as Shaquia follows her wherever she goes.


    The lynx nods. She wants to ask about what her power is, but she feels like she might explode if she gets told that it¡¯s a secret again. She¡¯s in the one place where she could get all the answers, it frustrates to no end her that she is denied them so tantalisingly. ¡°In time, you say¡­ We¡¯ll see about that.¡±


    Solomon then goes to have a much-needed meal at the cafeteria, Shaquia never leaving her side even there. She almost feels bad for the lynx having to do that.


    ¡°You said you have a bathroom and showers on every floor, right?¡± She asks.


    ¡°That is correct.¡± Shaquia responds, looking bored.


    Solomon nods and after finishing eating a fillet fish, she heads to the nearest shower, being met with several gazes along the way, all looking at her hands in specific. To her relief, the lynx simply stands outside and waits for her. Sure, having an entourage may be for their safety, but she doesn¡¯t know how to level buildings yet. ¡°To be fair, I¡¯d rather not know how to do that at all.¡±


    Feeling properly clean, Solomon then goes back to the room that was designated to her.


    ¡°That concludes your tour, Acid One.¡± Says the lynx while they¡¯re still outside the room.


    ¡°I have a name, you know¡­¡± Solomon mutters, her ears drooping.


    ¡°We trust that you¡¯ll be able to lend us your services when the time comes.¡± Shaquia goes on, ignoring her statement, albeit with a look of¡­ Pity? ¡°I will come to take you to training tomorrow.¡±


    ¡°Understood.¡± Solomon nods, goes inside the room, and lies down on the bed. She then remembers that she still doesn¡¯t have a clock in her room and sighs in exasperation. She guesses that it must be getting late. Why aren¡¯t there any windows in the room anyway?


    She doesn¡¯t feel tired, but she also has no way to entertain herself, and anything sounds better than being left alone with her thoughts. She really wishes she could talk to someone... Preferably one of her friends, but that¡¯s not happening for who knows how long. She could really use one of Yaroslav¡¯s stories, Durazo¡¯s prayers or Lisa¡¯s¡­ Eccentric behaviour or general company. She misses the wolf oh so much already. She can¡¯t even begin to imagine what Adelar thinks of her going missing. Maybe he had people mobilised to look for her already. Maybe, just maybe.


    She¡¯s already thinking way too much about this for her liking. She tries to go to sleep¡­


    It may have haunted her for months, but the familiarity of this barren, ruined landscape feels, in a morbid way, almost comforting. At least it¡¯s a place she knows. She once again sits down by a building and hears footsteps and dripping very soon after. From the left, the figure approaches.


    ¡°Come on then, let¡¯s just get it over with.¡± She says, more annoyed than scared now. Maybe it isn¡¯t the best idea to give such sass to the being that has been chasing her for so long¡­ But she¡¯s tried just about everything else.


    ¡°We both know how it always ends, you reach out, I wake up, and then it repeats the next night. I am so tired of this¡­¡± The figure doesn¡¯t seem to listen to her. ¡°Can it even hear? Can it understand me?¡± She just waits for it to walk to her. It reaches out to grab her and she wakes up. Without even sitting up, she just goes right back to sleep after a couple minutes, right back to where she was. Same building, figure walking away, only to turn around a few seconds after she arrives.


    ¡°Told you.¡± She says with a shrug.


    The figure then starts walking towards her, albeit slower this time. It reaches out, she wakes up.


    ¡°This is getting tiresome¡­¡± The same repeats three more times, each time, the figure appears to be walking slower and slower. It all ends the same way, her waking up. One more time, she goes back to sleep¡­


    She sits still by a building, the figure goes to stand above her, and to her surprise, stops. It then sits down in front of her. ¡°Okay, that¡¯s new. Maybe it finally sees that it¡¯s pointless.¡±


    She really gets a close look at the figure now. Its body is pitch black, not a single feature is visible on it. It¡¯s like she¡¯s looking at a shadow¡­ Like how Thalia looked in that house in the darkness. Except it has no ears, at least not any that Solomon can see. She notices something she didn¡¯t before¡­ It has a tail. It¡¯s rather thin and just as black as the rest of its body. Its hands drip with the liquid, but the sand doesn¡¯t sizzle where it touches it. And of course, the eyes. Those glowing, piercing green eyes¡­ Coming face to face with the thing that has been the subject of her nightmares for so long, it¡¯s quite a surreal experience.


    ¡°Finally got tired of this too, huh?¡± She asks. There is no answer. ¡°Do you understand me?¡± After a good few seconds, she can see its eyes move up and down slightly, slowly.


    ¡°Woah¡­¡± She can¡¯t help but say out loud. ¡°Can¡­ Can you understand me?¡± She asks, a little more confident in communicating with it somehow.


    The figure then stops what Solomon thinks is nodding.


    They sit there in complete silence. Solomon would certainly take this over running, but it still just feels weird¡­


    ¡°Why are you doing this?¡± Solomon asks after a while. ¡°Who are you?¡±


    She can see its eyes move again, a lot more subtle and she may just be imagining it, but she feels like its eyes look down, then back up once.


    ¡°Just why do you chase me every single-¡± She begins to say, but is interrupted. All of a sudden, the figure lifts its right hand slowly and reaches out¡­ But not to grab her. More as if expecting a handshake. The green liquid drips down to the ground and seeps into the sand as Solomon looks at the figure¡¯s hand in specific. She reaches for it tentatively, but pulls back before touching its hand.


    ¡°Yeah, sorry. That¡¯s not happen-¡± The figure then slowly reaches to grab her, but she wakes up before it can touch her. Solomon feels rather startled by the experience.


    ¡°Okay¡­ I think I can call that progress.¡±


    She lies in bed for about ten minutes before there is a knock on the door followed by Shaquia opening it.


    ¡°Hope you slept well, Acid One.¡± Solomon frowns at her statement, stands up, and walks to the door, already feeling irritated. The lynx hands her a stack of brand new, folded clothes.


    ¡°Put this on. If you¡¯ll be working with us, you should look like one of us.¡± She looks to the side, muttering. ¡°Or so says Ludwig, anyway.¡± She sighs. ¡°Make it quick, we don¡¯t want to keep your instructor waiting.¡± She says and closes the door.


    Looking through the clothes, she was apparently handed two identical sets of clothing, each including a white dress shirt, a black suit jacket, black trousers, a black tie, a set of plain, white underwear and black shoes. ¡°There¡¯s no way I¡¯m putting on a tie.¡±


    To be fair, she¡¯s glad to have fresh clothing, even if it definitely isn¡¯t her style. She figures she¡¯ll be working with her acid for the majority of her stay, she¡¯d rather not damage the clothing, so she begins infusing them with her power. She¡¯s halfway through the first set when Shaquia knocks on her door.


    ¡°Hurry up.¡± She says, but clearly doesn¡¯t mean it, in a disinterested tone. Despite the lynx¡¯s wishes, Solomon finishes infusing one set, not including the tie, before changing. Instead of the tie, she puts on her scarf. The trousers feel slightly tight, the jacket ever so slightly too big. Nothing noticeable from just looking at her, but she certainly feels the disparity. She opens the door to see Shaquia leaning on the wall.


    ¡°Make it snappy next time.¡± She remarks, not mentioning the scarf.


    ¡°Can we go to the laundry room first?¡± Solomon asks, which makes the lynx raise an eyebrow.


    ¡°Seriously?¡± Shaquia asks, looking genuinely peeved by her admittedly ridiculous request. Solomon exhales deeply before responding.


    ¡°Fine, fine¡­ Take me to this instructor then.¡± She was hoping she could have her preferred clothes washed while she was at training, but that¡¯ll have to wait.


    ¡°Keep the preening to a minimum.¡± The lynx sighs. ¡°Higher-ups would much prefer you to be on time. Just a friendly advice, Acid One.¡±


    ¡°Would it hurt you to call me by my name?¡± Solomon asks, being called an epithet beginning to really get to her.


    ¡°It¡¯s just standard procedure. Get used to it.¡± The lynx responds with a hint of pity in her voice.


    Less than happy with her answer, she follows closely behind the lynx.


    Solomon is then escorted to the instructor. On the way there, by the way she looks, she guesses that Shaquia must be having a week that¡¯s either eventful or terrible. Or possibly both. The training hall reminds her of the room under the station, but much larger and more professional. She can see other Mystic Ones hone their skills. Most of them are fire or frost with the odd Electric Ones here and there. Solomon is bewildered by the sheer number of Mystic Ones here.


    Shaquia takes her to a rather aged otter with jagged, blue markings all over his hands. The markings look so different from Lisa¡¯s, she would think they were entirely different if she didn¡¯t know better. The otter looks at her with anticipation.


    You could be reading stolen content. Head to Royal Road for the genuine story.


    ¡°Instructor Stefano, your newest apprentice is here.¡± Says the lynx. ¡°Acid One, this is our finest Electric One, he will attempt to draw out your power to the best of his ability.¡±


    Solomon frowns and waves unenthusiastically.


    ¡°Well met, Acid One.¡± Says the otter.


    ¡°It¡¯s Solomon!¡± She exclaims. ¡°Roxanne Solomon! Can you please just call me by my name?¡± She finally says, tired of being called not just a name, but one she dislikes, no less. The people around give her curious looks. Stefano looks a little taken aback by her sudden outburst and gives Shaquia a quick glance, who shrugs.


    ¡°Certainly, Roxanne Solomon.¡± He reaches forward, Solomon shakes his hand. ¡°That wasn¡¯t so hard, now was it?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll leave you to it. Let me know if you run into any complications.¡± Shaquia says and gives Stefano a radio. She then looks at Solomon. ¡°We don¡¯t know how long it will take. Days, weeks, months¡­ Be patient.¡±


    The lynx then leaves the training hall.


    ¡°So, Roxanne Solomon-¡± Says the otter.


    ¡°Just Solomon is enough.¡± Says the cat, feeling like this otter is a little too old to do this.


    ¡°So, Solomon. Research shows that the closest magic type to acid is likely a combination of two others.¡±


    Solomon raises an eyebrow at that.


    ¡°Unfortunately, we are no longer in possession of that combination, and lack the means to make it. So I had to suffice.¡±


    ¡°Combination? How does that work?¡± Solomon inquires, suddenly interested, having Shaquia in mind.


    Stefano scratches his head and talks into the radio.


    ¡°Ludwig, the Aci-¡± He clears his throat, looking at a disgruntled Solomon. ¡°Solomon requests knowledge on splicing. I request permission to tell.¡± He says nervously.


    ¡°Given how it¡¯s impossible for her to abuse it apparently, permission granted.¡± Says Ludwig through the radio. Solomon¡¯s ears perk up.


    ¡°We call it splicing.¡± Stefano begins to say. ¡°I was told that it doesn¡¯t work on you for some reason. Normally, the magic is transferred from one person to another. One body allows two different types at most, any more than that is deadly.¡±


    Solomon nods. ¡°So that¡¯s what they tried to do with me. But why didn¡¯t it work?¡± Stafano then puts a hand on Solomon¡¯s shoulder and starts leading her to a portion of the hall that has the floor covered with glass.


    ¡°It is possible to splice the same type many times¡­¡± The instructor explains. ¡°But it has some rather adverse effects on the psyche.¡±


    ¡°Do you know why?¡± Solomon asks, now wanting to know more.


    ¡°Well¡­¡± Stefano tugs on his collar. ¡°We don¡¯t know why it¡¯s all like this, but we know that it is.¡±


    She is then instructed to demonstrate her power. Her markings light up, acid drips from her hands onto the glass where it becomes a harmless, black liquid.


    ¡°Try it on this.¡± Stefano gives her a stick of wood. She holds it in her hand, it dissolves into black muck. Stefano takes notes. ¡°I just wanted to see it for myself.¡±


    Solomon then smirks.


    ¡°That¡¯s nothing. Watch this.¡± She then touches her suit. The acid rolls off of it and eventually drips onto the glass. Stefano watches in bewilderment.


    ¡°How did you do that?¡± People look over to the scene as a result of his reaction.


    ¡°Blessing.¡± Solomon states. ¡°That¡¯s what I call it anyway. Surely, you know of it.¡±


    Stefano goes to touch the suit. Not a stain or spot on it, definitely no burn marks.


    ¡°So this is acid infusion¡­¡± Stefano steps back, taking more notes. ¡°It protects from the acid. Ha! Who would have guessed!¡±


    ¡°They call it infusion, then.¡± Solomon almost feels proud by the remarks. At least she isn¡¯t looked at as an instrument of destruction, not entirely anyway.


    ¡°Does it work on people?¡± Stefano asks rather abruptly.


    ¡°I haven¡¯t tried and after what happened yesterday, I¡¯d much prefer not to try for a while.¡± She says in response, flicking her tail.


    ¡°No matter. From now on, we¡¯ll try to figure out how exactly your power works. I want you to reach out your hand, and preferably your index finger.¡±


    Solomon does as instructed.


    ¡°I want you to power up your magic now, and try to focus it into the tip of your finger.¡±


    She remembers Lisa doing that in Harbertville. She made it look so easy¡­ But that was after she absorbed energy from a generator. If magic gets more powerful in the presence of its type, then what would make hers more powerful?


    She powers up her magic and tries to focus it into her fingertip. She tries for about five minutes, but nothing happens other than acid dripping from her hand.


    ¡°It¡¯s perfectly normal to have such complications, since the markings are only on your hands. But don¡¯t worry, the part that matters is that you¡¯re with us and not with another party.¡± Stefano¡¯s commentary really doesn¡¯t make it easier for Solomon. ¡°For now.¡±


    ¡°How should I try to concentrate it into my finger?¡± She asks with an inquisitive look.


    ¡°Well¡­ Let me demonstrate. You there! Out of the way!¡± Stefano says and shoos a pair of birds away from a metal training dummy. He then rolls up his sleeves. His arms look like a picture that was taken during the most intense thunderstorm Solomon has ever seen. Jagged, blue lines that originate from one point in each of his shoulders.


    ¡°The more your body is covered in markings, the easier it is to master your magic. You¡¯d also be considered more powerful.¡± He stretches out his right arm and points at the dummy. ¡°We are testing if you can fire a projectile like Electric Ones and Blazing Ones can.¡± His markings light up, arcs of electricity jump across his arms. ¡°With Electric Ones, the magic itself normally does what it pleases¡­ But it can be controlled.¡± The electricity slowly starts to amass at his hand, then finger. ¡±It takes practice, but the results¡­¡± A bolt of electricity discharges from his finger and hits the dummy. Being more conductive than the tree Solomon first saw this happen with, it leaves no mark as the electricity rushes to the ground. ¡°..speak for themselves.¡± The otter then turns back to look at the cat.


    ¡°We can¡¯t know for sure what you can do, but certain types have some overlapping elements. Like Bright Ones and Electric Ones. If you have light train electricity, you can usually have good results. We will try to find out if acid has any overlaps.¡± Stefano explains. ¡°But at the end of the day, it¡¯s up to you to find out for certain. You need to find the right feel for it. You are ultimately in control, you are the source of this magic. Remind yourself of that, practice diligently, get creative if things don¡¯t work at first and eventually, the acid will bend to your will.¡±


    Solomon nods with a smile. The first time she talked to an actual, proper expert, and she feels like it¡¯ll certainly help.


    ¡°I¡¯ll need some help with that.¡± She admits.


    ¡°I see. I will try to help, but since it¡¯s the first time we¡¯ve dealt with an Acid One, I can¡¯t promise much for sure.¡± Stefano steps closer to her, still a safe distance away. ¡°You already know about infusion. That¡¯s usually what people have trouble understanding the most. How did you learn it, by the way?¡±


    Solomon looks around, as if deep in thought. She definitely isn¡¯t going to tell the actual way she got to know it.


    ¡°It just happened, really. It isn¡¯t that interesting of a story.¡± She states.


    ¡°Well then.¡± Stefano nods.


    ¡°Back to another topic, what combination is similar to acid?¡± She asks, remembering what he said earlier. ¡°And what do you mean by ¡°no longer in our possession¡±?¡± She tries her best to concentrate the acid, but to no avail.


    ¡°Oh, right¡­¡± He then sheepishly talks into the radio. ¡°Ludwig, may I tell her about¡­¡± He pauses for a second. ¡°Rufina¡­?¡± He says in no more than a whisper.


    ¡°NO!¡± The wolf yells into the radio. ¡°Under NO circumstances are you allowed to talk about that EVER. Especially not to her! DO. YOU. UNDERSTAND?!¡±


    The sound of cracking can then be heard. The unbridled rage in his voice tells Solomon that it is a rather sensitive topic. Judging by the lack of reaction from the people around, this likely isn¡¯t the first time he¡¯s done that.


    ¡°Yes, sir. I apologise for asking.¡± Says the otter, Solomon isn¡¯t confident that he can be heard on the other end.


    ¡°Damnit Stefano, I thought you knew better than to ask him so bluntly.¡± Says the voice of Shaquia coming from the radio.


    ¡°Someone get him a new one. That definitely sounded like he broke it.¡± Says another male voice with a pronounced British accent, which sounds somewhat familiar to Solomon.


    ¡°I¡¯ll do that, sire.¡± Yet another voice comes through the radio. Stefano sighs deeply.


    ¡°I¡¯ll take that as a no.¡± Says Solomon, feeling slightly concerned for the otter. ¡°Let¡¯s just get back to it then¡­¡±


    Solomon spends the day trying to conjure an acid projectile, taking very few breaks. There is no progress in it whatsoever, despite her and Stefano¡¯s efforts. As time passes, a puddle of black liquid grows and grows where the droplets hit the floor. She tries other techniques, like the throwing motion of Blazing Ones. It only results in droplets of harmless, black liquid dripping down a wall. She did hear more conversations through the radio, including Ludwig getting a new one and two unfamiliar voices discussing matters in the medical room.


    ¡°Curious¡­¡± Stefano says after what feels like the thousandth failed attempt. ¡°We do this for a few days, if you don¡¯t feel any, and I mean any change at all, we just move on. Maybe this type just can¡¯t do that.¡± Solomon nods, feeling exhausted. Acid projectile¡­ That sounds terrifying just by itself.


    ¡°So, can I leave?¡± She asks.


    ¡°Shaquia. Please come over and take her to her room.¡± The otter says into the radio.


    Solomon feels slightly patronised.


    ¡°I¡¯ll be there in a second.¡± Her voice sounds sleepy.


    ¡°Show us some more enthusiasm, Shaquia.¡± Another voice says with a laugh, Solomon can tell that she heard it before.


    ¡°Shut up Benedict, I¡¯ve been up all day and I know you just woke up for the night shift.¡± The lynx says in response.


    ¡°Would you two just cut it out? This line is for important matters.¡± Says the voice of Ludwig, followed only by silence. Solomon chuckles softly at their antics, briefly forgetting that they are supposed to be her higher-up, even captors if she thinks about it.


    Shaquia soon arrives, looking drained.


    ¡°How¡¯d it go?¡± She asks the otter.


    ¡°You know that one day isn¡¯t too long for mastering magic. But even then¡­¡± Stefano responds with a pensive look. ¡°There is a strict lack of progress. I¡¯m sure we¡¯ll figure it out eventually, but I can¡¯t say for sure when¡­¡±


    ¡°I¡¯d say take all the time you need, but that¡¯s up to Ludwig to decide.¡± The lynx looks towards Solomon. ¡°Unfortunately.¡± She mutters under her breath. ¡°Let¡¯s go then.¡±


    Solomon waves Stafano goodbye and is then escorted to her room. She feels like the lynx isn¡¯t exactly fond of her boss.


    ¡°Listen, I know we can be hard on you¡­¡± Shaquia says with a sigh. ¡°But you¡¯re extremely important for our cause.¡±


    Solomon wonders if Shaquia¡¯s talking about her or her power.


    ¡°It may not look like it, but you¡¯re doing well. This is a great start, I¡¯m sure we could achieve a lot together.¡± For once, Solomon sees the lynx smile.


    Solomon nods and opens the door.


    ¡°Oh!¡± She says, remembering something she wanted to ask. ¡°Can I at least get a clock?¡± With a curious look, Shaquia steps into her room and looks around. Indeed, there is no clock anywhere in the room.


    ¡°I swear¡­¡± Says Shaquia, looking irritated. ¡°I told that IDIOT not to forget this¡­ My apologies, I¡¯ll have someone deliver you a clock soon. Stay here.¡± She leaves and closes the door behind her.


    ¡°Right.¡± She says to herself and lies down on the bed. She still has so many questions that she knows they will not answer. Where do they get their money from? She figures it might be the government that truly runs this place. It¡¯ll be worth a shot to ask. She can¡¯t even begin to imagine how much the electricity bill could be.


    After a few minutes, there is a knock at her door. She gets up and opens it, a crow stands in front of her with a wrist watch in his hand. She recognises the crow as the one who is also on that painting.


    ¡°Good evening.¡± He says. ¡°It¡¯s that late already?¡± She¡¯ll at least have a way to tell now. ¡°Your watch, sire.¡± He hands it over and turns to leave.


    ¡°Sire? Really?¡± Solomon figures it¡¯s still better than being called ¡°Acid One¡±.


    ¡°Oh, thank you. I really needed one of these.¡± She asked for a clock, sure, but a watch may just be better. She inspects the watch, it isn¡¯t fancy by any means, but as long as it tells the time, it¡¯ll be good enough for her.


    She then sees that the crow is standing on the railing. ¡°This is the fourth floor, what is he doing?¡± He then lifts one leg to step forward. Solomon is about to go stop him when she sees that now both of his feet are in the air¡­ And he is not falling. In fact, he is walking, up and up as if he¡¯s using stairs. Upon taking a closer look, she sees that small, grey, platform-like¡­ Objects? Form under his feet as he steps. Solomon is left in awe at what she sees.


    ¡°Pretty freaky, huh?¡± Says a voice from behind her. She instinctively puts her hands in her pockets and turns around to see a black and yellow salamander, watching the crow disappear to the floor above.


    ¡°They pulled the same thing with me. In retrospect, it¡¯s kind of funny.¡± He says, turning to look at her. ¡°So you¡¯re the new girl? The fabled Acid One¡­¡± Solomon feels rather down, liking that epithet less and less. ¡°What¡¯s your name?¡± That question, however, immediately makes her like the salamander a little.


    ¡°Solomon.¡± She answers with an unexpectedly happy tone.


    ¡°I¡¯m Sal. Good to meet you.¡± With a smile, he offers her a handshake, which she returns. ¡°Sal the salamander¡­ Well then.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s our Andreas.¡± Sal explains. ¡°He has wind in his feet, and he can apparently just walk on air. Crazy, eh?¡±


    Solomon looks at the salamander in surprise.


    ¡°And you¡¯re allowed to just tell me that?¡±


    Her question is met with a laugh.


    ¡°Not like it¡¯s that much of a secret.¡± He remarks. ¡°The place isn¡¯t bugged. They can¡¯t hear everything.¡±


    Solomon is glad to learn that information.


    ¡°How long have you been here?¡± Sal asks.


    ¡°I arrived yesterday¡­ We could say.¡± She guesses that he just wasn¡¯t here the day before to hear the announcement or see the scene that transpired.


    ¡°Then you could use some extra help. Like who the higher-ups are exactly.¡±


    Solomon perks her ears at Sal saying that. It¡¯s exactly what she wants to know!


    ¡°There¡¯s Benedict, Andreas, and Shaquia. They¡¯re way high up on the ladder. You know what they can do. I¡¯m sure you could hit it off with Vanessa too!¡±


    Solomon shakes her head and inquires about them, the thought that she just found someone who could answer her questions properly makes her feel downright ecstatic. She may not show it, but the feeling is there nonetheless.


    ¡°Benedict¡­¡± Sal chuckles. ¡°I like him, he¡¯s pretty fun to be around. Not the stone-cold boss like Ludwig or Shaquia.¡± He leans closer to her. ¡°And he can create pure water with his hands!¡± He says excitedly, which Solomon also finds interesting.


    ¡°As for Shaquia¡­¡± The salamander goes on. ¡°Try to stay on her good side. Trust me, you REALLY don¡¯t want to get blasted with-¡±


    ¡°Salvador!¡± She hears someone call out. They both look to where the sound came from and see a doe with her arms crossed. ¡°Are you slacking again?¡± Sal chuckles softly. ¡°It was nice talking to you, but I have to go now. Same time tomorrow?¡±


    Solomon nods with enthusiasm, albeit upset that she couldn¡¯t learn what the lynx¡¯s power is exactly.


    ¡°That sounds good, yes. Tomorrow then!¡± She says, happy to have met him.


    ¡°Until then!¡± Sal says and turns to leave with the doe.


    Solomon goes back into her room and checks the time. 21:03. She then infuses the watch she got. It reads 21:04. ¡°It¡¯s still working, apparently. That¡¯s good.¡±


    She then goes to bed, feeling like she¡¯s gotten to know a lot more about this organisation already. Once she gets out of here, she will likely have many stories of her own to tell. This place needs her more than she needs it, and as long as they believe the opposite, that gives her a big advantage.

 Chapter 10 - Acclimation

    Solomon¡¯s dreams became admittedly more peaceful ever since she stopped running from the figure. It may be more similar to how her dreams started, with the figure looking at her from a distance, but she would take this over the alternative any day.


    She isn¡¯t sure what to make of the figure reaching out for what she guesses is a handshake. The second time, it felt a lot more tempting¡­ Maybe one time, she will return the handshake, but that isn¡¯t happening anytime soon.


    She wakes up the next day, feeling like she hasn¡¯t slept this well in months. She wants to go out by herself, but she doesn¡¯t think that they would take too kindly to that. She considers just leaving the building altogether for a brief moment, but quickly decides against it. If she wants her friends to be safe, she needs to stay, she needs this ¡°System¡± to think that she¡¯s on their side. Surely, they would have a way to know if she tried to leave anyway.


    She finishes infusing the rest of her clothing and waits. If someone doesn¡¯t come for her soon, she¡¯ll just leave and deal with the consequences later.


    Not even ten minutes after, there is a knock at her door. Shaquia comes in, looking tired again, or perhaps, still. She sees that Solomon is ready to start the day.


    ¡°Come. Ludwig wants to talk to you.¡± The cat feels a little taken aback by that information, but gets up and follows the lynx down.


    About halfway to his office, a voice comes through the snow lynx¡¯s radio.


    ¡°Shaquia, could you come to the warehouse? I could use a little help.¡±


    She sighs and mutters something under her breath.


    ¡°You can find your way there without getting lost, right?¡± She asks Solomon, looking fed up with the day already.


    ¡°Yes. And don¡¯t worry, I won¡¯t tell him that you left me on my own.¡± She can see a slight smile form on Shaquia¡¯s face.


    ¡°Thanks.¡± She then turns to leave.


    Solomon makes her way to the wolf¡¯s office. She is about to knock on the door when she hears one half of a conversation coming from the inside.


    ¡°How could they have killed him?¡± She hears the voice of Ludwig¡¯s deep, booming voice say, likely talking on the phone. She decides to listen in on the conversation, it wouldn¡¯t hurt to get to know a little more.


    ¡°If that truly happened as you describe it, why didn¡¯t you inform me immediately?¡± He says in a mockingly condescending tone, followed by a short pause.


    ¡°Let me get this straight. You got beaten by some guy, a weirdo, and an old man?¡±


    Solomon perks her ears, making sure not to miss a word that¡¯s being said. ¡°Are they talking about them? They¡¯re definitely talking about them.¡±


    ¡°All three of them? Not just the cat?¡± Solomon grows more suspicious and worried, wondering what might have happened at Lion¡¯s Den. She feels like she really should have gone with them, it would have been so much safer.


    ¡°Frost, electricity, and light. That explains it, one of Harper¡¯s types was dark. Light would be his bane for certain.¡± Ludwig says in a low voice. That sentence confirms her suspicions. They must be talking about the Bird¡¯s Eye employees. Not only that, but now they know that they are all Mystic Ones for certain.


    ¡°You think they¡¯re responsible for that as well?¡± There is a long pause after that question. ¡°I¡¯ll look into it. Come back to base ASAP, I want to know everything. Goodbye.¡±


    Solomon thinks twice about even going in. They now know that her friends have magic as well and she really doesn¡¯t like the implications of that. Ludwig will certainly ask her about it. Having made up her mind, she knocks on the door.


    ¡°Come in.¡± She hears the silver wolf¡¯s voice respond.


    Solomon enters his office, Ludwig gestures to her to take a seat, which she does.


    ¡°So, Acid One¡­¡± He says, only to be met with said Acid One scowling at him. ¡°Also known as Solomon.¡± He adds. It doesn¡¯t take away the irritation from her expression, however.


    ¡°What do you want?¡± She asks, not even attempting to hide her irritation.


    ¡°I just wanted to ask how your first day went yesterday.¡± The wolf smiles at her. ¡°Feedback is important here, you know.¡±


    ¡°That doesn¡¯t seem right. After a conversation like that?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve had worse.¡± She rolls her eyes. ¡°Stefano was at least helpful, I found out that I most likely can¡¯t fire an acid projectile.¡±


    ¡°And that was just your first day!¡±  Ludwig chuckles. ¡°Imagine what else you will learn. We will have you embrace your potential!¡±


    Solomon shakes her head in response.


    ¡°We have a deal. I hold up my end of the bargain as long as you do the same.¡± The wolf¡¯s smile becomes a cold glare.


    ¡°As I said, I¡¯m a man of my word. I¡¯ll give you a few days to get used to how we run things, then I will have some very important questions for you. Until then, you shall only go around the building if you are with one of my men. Understood?¡±


    Solomon nods.


    ¡°You really don¡¯t trust me, do you?¡± She asks with a displeased look.


    Ludwig exhales in frustration as a result of her question.


    ¡°We can¡¯t confirm if you¡¯re as deceitful as the legends say.¡± Solomon feels terribly insulted at his statement.


    ¡°Are you sure it wasn¡¯t just one person who wasn¡¯t very trustworthy?¡± She inquires, feeling terribly tired of hearing about it.


    ¡°There are legends about more than just one, and all of them were said to be vile. We need to confirm that you aren¡¯t.¡±


    ¡°And I thought I was paranoid.¡±


    Solomon shrugs.


    ¡°So be it then, loup. I¡¯ll wait and train, and you keep your hands away from my friends.¡±


    The wolf pauses and nods. She feels like he isn¡¯t very happy with the conditions she set.


    ¡°Very well. You may leave.¡±


    She stands up and exits his office. She then hears a slam coming from inside. ¡°He didn¡¯t even ask about the others¡­ How strange.¡±


    Shaquia is nowhere to be seen, however. She was told to be in the warehouse, so Solomon guesses that she still isn¡¯t done there. She may have just been told not to go anywhere without her, but she doesn¡¯t have much of a choice here.


    She walks to the warehouse entrance, a rhinoceros guard blocks her way in.


    ¡°ID.¡± Is all he says to her. She holds up her hands, showing her markings to him. His eyes go wide in a mix of surprise and fear.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, I didn¡¯t know you were¡­ That.¡± Ludwig may have told her not to be alone, but he sure didn¡¯t tell all of his employees. ¡°Go right in.¡± The guard moves out of the way.


    ¡°Merci.¡± She says in response and enters the warehouse. ¡°At least these will be quite handy for getting around here.¡±


    While the main building is impressive in terms of height, the same is true for the warehouse in terms of length and width. Large shelves with boxes and materials make what feels like a labyrinth of corridors.


    ¡°How did you even manage that?¡± She hears the irritated voice of the lynx and heads in its direction.


    ¡°Just help me get it unstuck!¡± Says another, familiar voice.


    So many boxes and various items¡­ She looks to the top of one shelf. ¡°Why is a piano up there?¡±  The deeper she goes, the more she finds things she¡¯d consider to be junk. There¡¯s even a box filled with confetti.


    ¡°Should I just bring the power cutter?¡± She hears the lynx ask.


    She turns a corner and sees Shaquia and a short raccoon, about the same height as Solomon. In fact, it¡¯s the same raccoon who came to help take her at the station. She also saw him in the painting. He doesn¡¯t have his dress jacket on, the markings on his arms are prominently on display. On his right arm, there is frost. On his left, fire. They are trying to free a large, wooden box labelled ¡°fragile¡± from metal wires holding it tight.


    ¡°How are you this bad at packaging?¡± The lynx asks, then notices that Solomon showed up. ¡°I¡¯m SO glad you¡¯re here.¡± She says and beckons the cat to come and help. ¡°Ludwig didn¡¯t suspect that I wasn¡¯t with you, right?¡±


    ¡°Not even a little bit.¡± Solomon responds as she walks over. The two stop struggling with the box.


    ¡°Solomon, this is Benedict. He¡¯s in charge of the warehouse, unfortunately.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve been telling Ludwig that this place is too big for one person to oversee AND for him to go out on missions in addition.¡± The raccoon crosses his arms and glares at the lynx. ¡°Especially when most of the people working here have called in sick. We are so understaffed, you wouldn¡¯t believe it.¡±


    Come to think of it, Solomon didn¡¯t see many other people in the warehouse, two others at most. She feels rather surprised by the lack of contingency plans when it comes to such problems.


    ¡°Anyway, mind helping with this?¡± Says the lynx, looking from the box to Solomon. ¡°If you could melt those wires, that¡¯d make our job a whole lot easier.¡±


    The cat nods and walks over to the box. Her magic powers up, the wires melt in an instant. The box comes loose right after that.


    ¡°Not bad.¡± Benedict says with a nod.


    Solomon powers down her magic and offers a handshake with a wink.


    ¡°Not to be rude, but I think I¡¯ll pass on that one.¡± He says, taking a step back.


    ¡°Next time you pull something like this, I am NOT helping you.¡± Shaquia announces. ¡°Let¡¯s go, Solomon.¡±


    Benedict gestures to her to stop.


    ¡°Hold on, we just met! I¡¯d like to talk to her a little.¡±


    ¡°Meet me at the entrance.¡± The lynx shrugs and starts walking away. ¡°Try to make it quick.¡±


    ¡°So, you¡¯re Roxanne Solomon!¡± Benedict begins to say, apparently excited to see her. ¡°The Acid One! Shaqie told me about you-¡±


    ¡°Call me that again and you¡¯ll look like a naked mole rat by the time I¡¯m done with you!¡± The lynx shouts, apparently still within earshot.


    ¡°Hah, don¡¯t mind her.¡± The raccoon leans against the box, which almost falls from the piece of metal it¡¯s balanced on. He catches it just before whatever''s inside it can break. He steps back and smiles awkwardly. ¡°How is he so high up in the ranks?¡±


    ¡°As I said, don¡¯t mind her.¡± He gestures dismissively. ¡°She¡¯s always stressed. She¡¯s in charge of the main building and the training hall.¡±


    Solomon raises an eyebrow.


    ¡°Two of them at once?¡± She inquires.


    ¡°You know, we used to have someone else for the main building, but then things got messy and we haven¡¯t found a proper replacement yet.¡± Benedict responds in a whisper, stepping closer to her. ¡°But you don¡¯t know that from me.¡± He says with a wink.


    Solomon nods and winks back.


    ¡°So, frost and fire? How does that work?¡± She asks, looking at his arms.


    ¡°Oh!¡±  He yells out, sounding excited. ¡°These two types  are normally incompatible, but since they don¡¯t intertwine at all, it works! Fire, frost, and guess what!¡± He leans closer to Solomon and whispers again. ¡°The two can even make water!¡±


    She can practically see the stars in his eyes. If people like him can be part of this organisation, let alone be high-ranking, Solomon feels slightly less afraid of it.


    ¡°That¡¯s¡­ Nice?¡± She says, pretending like she didn¡¯t hear about his power before.


    ¡°I partially supply the place with water. Makes the bills a bit less painful to read.¡±


    Solomon feels a little weirded out by that statement, but she can see how useful that can be. ¡°Magical water! Confirmed to be 100% like normal water!¡±


    ¡°I get it, you can conjure water. That¡¯s great, really.¡± She says as she starts walking deeper into the warehouse. Benedict follows her. ¡°Are you even allowed to talk about all this?¡± She asks with a sly look.


    ¡°I think boss man Ludwig is a little too paranoid.¡± The raccoon shrugs it off. ¡°Like, Who could you possibly tell that information and have it damage the organisation?¡±


    Solomon can think of a couple people who would fall into that category, but she has no intention of telling him. The organised warehouse turns into more and more of a chaotic mess the deeper they go.


    ¡°Haven¡¯t gotten around to these parts yet.¡± Says Benedict, trying not to have it sound like an excuse. At the end of the corridor, something catches her eyes¡­ It couldn¡¯t be, could it? She squints to maybe see it better.


    ¡°I think your power is pretty cool.¡± Says the raccoon.


    Solomon glances at him and sees that he¡¯s smiling, apparently happy to just talk to her.


    ¡°Uhm, thanks? I wish I was more¡­ Normal, to be honest.¡± She responds with a sullen look.


    The closer they get, the clearer it becomes: there is an old book at the end of the corridor on a lectern. ¡°There¡¯s no way¡­¡± She tries to keep a conversation going until they get all the way to it.


    A case of theft: this story is not rightfully on Amazon; if you spot it, report the violation.


    ¡°So, what is your organisation about?¡± She asks, trying not to look in the direction of the book.


    ¡°I thought they told you already?¡± The raccoon says incredulously ¡°It¡¯s not really a secret, at least to those that are a part of it. We house and train Mystic Ones. We also help provide shelter from the outside world. I can only imagine the state the world would be in if this knowledge was public.¡±


    Solomon feels astonished by what he just said. Not by the information itself, but more by the fact that he gave her an actual answer. Moreover, that sounds like a cause she can support. ¡°Not the first to want to keep magic a secret. I can certainly see why.¡±


    ¡°If it¡¯s no secret, then why wasn¡¯t I told?¡± Solomon asks, glancing over to the book. It¡¯s so close now¡­


    Benedict notices the book as well.


    ¡°Oh no, no, no, why is it just out in the open?¡± He rushes over to the book, ignoring Solomon¡¯s question, she follows closely behind.


    It¡¯s beyond any shadow of a doubt. This is the same book she and her colleagues found in possession of those three people who got attacked by the black kite. They must have taken it from the station along with her. The raccoon takes the book and puts it inside a nearby container that looks to be specifically for it.


    ¡°So what¡¯s that book?¡± The cat asks curiously.


    ¡°Listen.¡± Benedict turns around to face her with a worried expression. ¡°For the sake of us both, don¡¯t touch that. You¡¯ll get to see inside it someday, but that day is not today.¡± He says, gravely serious.


    Solomon simply nods in response.


    ¡°Alright then. I won¡¯t.¡± The confirmation that she¡¯ll one day learn the secrets of the book encourages her. However, the thought that the company she works for was in possession of the book bothers her greatly. The way he phrased it, there is a way to read the book, which makes her feel like she feels like she should have tried harder to find that way.


    ¡°Benedict, please tell Solomon to go to the entrance.¡± Shaquia says through the radio. ¡°If Ludwig shows up here, I¡¯ll be in trouble.¡±


    ¡°You heard her.¡± The raccoon looks at Solomon and smiles.


    The feline then turns to leave.


    ¡°Once we know we can trust you, I¡¯ll show you around better!¡± He waves to her.


    Solomon says goodbye and fastwalks her way out of the warehouse, concluding that the raccoon seems decidedly friendlier than the others so far.


    The lynx waits for her at the warehouse entrance, just like she said she would.


    ¡°Thanks for the help back there.¡± She says with a smile.


    Solomon waves dismissively.


    ¡°It was nothing, really. Destruction is what this was made for, right?¡± She holds up her hands, showing off her markings.


    ¡°Nature wanted it to be that way.¡± Shaquia shrugs.


    Adelar told her that magic comes from nature, but what she said implies that it is a part of nature. Just how interconnected are the two?


    ¡°So, ready to go to training?¡± She asks, taking a tentative step towards the training hall. The cat nods with a look of confidence.


    Shaquia and Solomon go to the training hall, only to discover that Stefano isn¡¯t there. The lynx lets out a sigh of exasperation.


    ¡°He must not have finished his shift.¡± Solomon looks at her with a raised eyebrow.


    ¡°What shift?¡± She inquires.


    Shaquia looks around. None of the other higher-ups are around.


    ¡°I¡¯ll let you in on something.¡± She says quietly.


    Solomon¡¯s ears perk up when she hears that.


    ¡°There is a reason why Ludwig calls this org The System. Most Mystic Ones serve a purpose here. Stefano is an Electric One, so he helps power the facility along with others. We don¡¯t force it on anyone, they help willingly.¡±


    Solomon smiles in adoration at first, then questions this practice.


    ¡°For how long do they do this?¡± She asks, already thinking of ways certain types could be used.


    ¡°Most do it for as long as two hours twice each day. That¡¯s the upper limit for continuous electricity channelling before having to take a break. It doesn¡¯t account for everything, but it helps with the bills immensely.¡±


    That¡¯s the second time Solomon hears someone mention the bills. If they do this with every service, the cost of running the place could be much lower than she expected.


    ¡°He always overdoes it though, despite our wishes.¡± Shaquia looks around the room rather conspicuously, no one seems to take notice of their conversation. She checks her radio, making sure that it¡¯s not picking up anything.


    ¡°I can tell you¡¯re not getting used to this. To be honest, I don¡¯t approve of his secrecy with you.¡± Says the lynx.


    Solomon snaps her head at her with a look of disbelief. ¡°Did I hear that right?¡±


    ¡°He wants us to make you trust us. His methods are not the way to do it.¡± She glances at the cat with a gloomy expression. ¡°Your face says it all, really. If we don¡¯t tell you anything until your initiation, there¡¯s not a chance you¡¯ll trust us.¡±


    Solomon looks down and fiddles with her scarf.


    ¡°There¡¯s so much I want to know. Ever since this all started¡­¡± She pauses for a moment, then looks at the snow lynx with a frown. ¡°Then why¡¯d you have to kidnap me in the first place?¡±


    ¡°That wasn¡¯t our plan.¡± Shaquia scoffs. ¡°We were there to have a look around. Then Benedict pointed out that you''re an Acid One. When Ludwig learned that, he wanted you here immediately after, no questions asked. We had no way to tell you wouldn¡¯t just¡­ You know.¡±


    Solomon looks ahead as the lynx tells her what happened. ¡°That¡¯s when they took the book¡­¡±


    ¡°We normally ask about this first, but you¡¯re quite the exception to that.¡± Shaquia looks to the entrance of the training hall.


    ¡°Stefano¡¯s coming.¡± She informs her. ¡°We¡¯ll return to this later.¡±


    Solomon still has so many questions left, but that¡¯s a start. They can normally remove magic from people, she guesses that since they never had an Acid One before, they would have wanted to experiment with that. ¡°That clearly went well.¡±


    The otter walks over to the two and greets them, which they return.


    ¡°Today, we¡¯ll try a different approach.¡± Shefano begins. ¡°Some Frost Ones can form icicles to then throw. There¡¯s a slim chance of that being your case, but we have to try.¡±


    Solomon salutes and stands up.


    ¡°You don¡¯t have to do that.¡± The otter adds with an awkward smile, causing the cat to feel just a little embarrassed.


    ¡°Shaquia, you¡¯re needed on the third.¡± Andreas says through the radio. ¡°Sal made some new¡­ Machine, and needs you to help test it, sire.¡±


    The lynx sighs and begins making her way there.


    ¡°Be there in a minute.¡± She responds to the crow. ¡°I swear, if it¡¯s just some new gizmo again and not something actually useful¡­¡± She says loud enough for Solomon to hear and leaves the training hall.


    ¡°Sal! That¡¯s the one I talked to yesterday!¡± Solomon wonders what his part in The System could be.


    ¡°Ready to begin?¡± Stefano asks. The cat responds enthusiastically, feeling glad that not everyone in the organisation is like Ludwig. In fact, the other higher-ups she met don¡¯t seem to be that way.


    Solomon spends her day following Stefano¡¯s instructions as well as taking much needed breaks. She attempted what the otter told her, trying to form the acid into a vaguely spherical shape, all she achieved was getting the harmless, black remains of her acid all over a wall, much like she did the previous day. She then returns to trying to channel the acid into certain parts of her hands. There¡¯s no progress this day either, but she¡¯s patient. It may take time, but once she masters her power, she can take care of the cult and go back to freedom, to her friends. ¡°However long that¡¯ll take¡­¡±


    Solomon feels exhausted from the training. She didn¡¯t think producing acid would be so tiresome, but to try and control it as well...


    ¡°Solomon.¡± Says a sleepy-looking Shaquia as she enters the hall. The cat is sitting by a table with various tools and materials on it for testing, having taken off her dress jacket. ¡°I see you¡¯re done for the day.¡± She says with a slight smile.


    Solomon finds the lynx more and more agreeable every time she sees her. ¡°And just a day ago, I would have done anything to get out of here¡­ Which I still would, but I¡¯d be less open about it.¡±


    Stefano makes his report to the lynx. There isn¡¯t much to report on due to the lack of progress, but he apparently expected that to be the case. ¡°Patience, Solomon. It¡¯s only just begun.¡±


    Shaquia then beckons the cat to leave, which they do. Solomon waves goodbye to Stefano.


    ¡°I really need a break after today¡­¡± The lynx says with a yawn.


    ¡°Tell me about it.¡± Solomon says in response, having worked on what feels like nothing all day. ¡°Just the beginning¡­¡± She reminds herself.


    ¡°I have an idea.¡± Shaquia says as they enter a lift. ¡°I¡¯ll show the old man that I¡¯m right.¡± She then presses the button that will take them to the fourth floor.


    ¡°Old man?¡± Solomon asks.


    ¡°I¡¯ll get back to you on that one later.¡± Says the lynx. ¡°Have you ever been to a sauna?¡± Solomon looks at Shaquia questioningly.


    ¡°I have not, but I wouldn¡¯t be opposed.¡± She says with a hint of excitement in her voice.


    ¡°It¡¯s settled then.¡± She then presses the button to the sixth floor.


    There, the two get out of the lift. There are noticeably less people on this floor than on the others.


    ¡°I¡¯m going to take a break. If anyone wants something, tell them I¡¯m not available.¡± Shaquia speaks into the radio.


    ¡°Aren¡¯t you supposed to be with the cat?¡± Ludwig¡¯s voice comes through.


    ¡°I¡¯m taking her with me.¡± She responds matter-of-factly.


    ¡°WHAT-¡± Ludwig begins, but she turns off the radio.


    ¡°Aren¡¯t you afraid of getting fired for that?¡± Solomon asks nervously.


    ¡°He knows better than to do that. It¡¯s hard enough to find proper replacements as it is, let alone ones who are willing to put up with overseeing two sections.¡± She states, not a trace of worry in her voice. ¡°As well as going out on missions when needed.¡± She adds.


    Shaquia goes to what Solomon figures to be her room and comes out with two bathrobes.


    ¡°You¡¯ll need one of these.¡± She hands one to the cat. From the feel, she guesses that it¡¯s made out of cotton.


    Shaquia then leads Solomon to a door with an orange and a grey symbol on it. They resemble fire and wind respectively. On the way, a younger feline even salutes the lynx. Or maybe Solomon, she can¡¯t really tell.


    Inside, there are two small dressing cabins, blocked off by curtains. There¡¯s also another door between the cabins.


    ¡°Take your time.¡± Says the lynx and goes inside one of them. Feeling a little apprehensive, Solomon goes into the other cabin and changes into the robe. It isn¡¯t her size at all, but it would fit Shaquia perfectly. ¡°Probably because it¡¯s hers, huh¡­¡±


    When she exits, she sees the lynx waiting for her wearing the other


    robe. She goes to the other door and puts her hand on the handle.


    ¡°And this, Solomon, is my happy place.¡± She opens the door, on the inside, the walls, floor and benches are all made of wood. They go in, the lynx closes the door and sits down on the left side. Upon seeing that, so does Solomon on her opposite, feeling curious.


    ¡°This is what made working for that promotion worth it.¡± Shaquia sticks her hands to the sides, her sleeves roll back down to her elbow. Her markings light up and warm steam comes out of her palms, making the same noise a cracked pipe leaking steam would, which Solomon secretly finds ferociously hilarious. The room is soon filled with steam, making the air feel hot and humid.


    ¡°And the best thing about it: it¡¯s free!¡± With the steam covering most of them, Shaquia disrobes. Solomon does the same a few moments later, somewhat relaxed. Or at least more relaxed than she ever was since being taken to the edifice.


    Now, she really sees just how much of the lynx¡¯s body is covered in markings. Streaks of fire and wind winding across her arms, shoulders, and even a part of her upper body. Solomon guesses that she must be strong, based on that. ¡°Steam¡­ What a power.¡±


    ¡°Feels great, doesn¡¯t it?¡± The snow lynx asks. Solomon has to admit, it may be her first time, but the warmth of the air makes her feel rather calm. ¡°I bet the others would enjoy this too. Maybe not Father, he¡¯s a little too old for it?¡± She would rather not have the air be so humid, but she can¡¯t complain too much.


    ¡°Yeah.¡± She leans back against the wall. She closes her eyes for a few moments before opening them suddenly. ¡°No one else is coming in, right?¡± She asks, slightly concerned.


    ¡°I usually come here alone.¡± Shaquia calmly tells her. ¡°And people know not to come in when I¡¯m in. Let me tell you, a blast of steam to the face is quite unpleasant.¡±


    Solomon relaxes upon hearing that.


    ¡°Good. That makes me feel better¡­¡± She lets herself enjoy the warmth. Shaquia is making sure that the room stays warm by releasing more steam from her palms at certain intervals. Every time she does, the orange and grey glow of her markings reflect off of the steam slightly, which Solomon finds pretty.


    ¡°Mind if I ask you to tell me more about your power?¡± Solomon asks after a few minutes.


    ¡°Not at all.¡± The lynx says with a smile. ¡°Fire with wind. It makes steam, as we¡¯ve found out. There¡¯s really nothing else to it. It has some surprising range though, about ten metres if I really try. I can control the force and temperature of it, which is quite handy for both combat and¡­¡± She sighs in comfort. ¡°This. The reason why I specifically wanted wind to go with my fire. I love a good sauna.¡±


    Solomon fans at her face, the air starting to get a little too humid for her. Strangely enough, she doesn¡¯t feel hot.


    ¡°So¡­ How was today?¡± She asks, hoping to make the lynx lower her guard for other questions.


    Shaquia scoffs.


    ¡°A colleague really drove me up the wall today.¡±


    Solomon guesses that she¡¯s talking about Sal.


    ¡°He needed steam to power¡­ Something. He always makes these machines that are supposed to benefit us, but they never do.¡± She rubs her temples with one hand and pauses for a second. ¡°It worked, alright, whatever it was supposed to do. But when I left the room, I heard a bang. I went back and sure enough, it blew up.¡± The lynx leans forward, looking at Solomon, irritated just by thinking about the incident. ¡°How do you blow up a steam powered¡­ Thing, that doesn¡¯t even have a boiler!?¡± She asks in astonishment before calming down.


    ¡°Anyway, he¡¯s in a medical room now with Bright Ones taking care of him.¡±


    Solomon listens, fanning her face a little faster. ¡°I guess that¡¯s what he does here. I don¡¯t expect to see him tonight then.¡± She smiles and thinks about what she could ask. She got on the lynx¡¯s good side, she¡¯d prefer to stay on it.


    ¡°He seems quite whimsical.¡± She remarks.


    ¡°You have no idea.¡± Shaquia concurs with a soft chuckle.


    There are so many things Solomon wants to know¡­ One at a time, she hopes to find out.


    ¡°Do you work for the government?¡± She asks, already having a good guess on that, but still wanting to confirm it.


    Shaquia laughs a cynical laugh.


    ¡°I can safely tell you, we don¡¯t. We¡¯ll do anything to keep the Mystic Ones far away from the government¡¯s clutches. The things that would happen if we didn¡¯t¡­¡± She looks on, almost as if expecting Solomon to ask more.


    ¡°You called Ludwig an old man. He doesn¡¯t look that old to me though?¡±


    ¡°Hmm¡­¡± Shaquia says, as if to consider how much she should share with the cat. ¡°Let¡¯s just say that he¡¯s in good shape for his age. We¡¯ll leave it at that for now.¡±


    Solomon wonders what she could possibly mean, feeling that it¡¯s getting slightly harder to breathe.


    ¡°Good thing Harper isn¡¯t stationed here. When he works together with Ludwig, you can expect some archaic ideas.¡± Shaquia adds.


    ¡°So¡­ How long have you been a part of this¡­ System?¡± She asks, fanning her face more, her tail slowly swaying from one side to the other.


    ¡°About twelve years, I¡¯d say?¡± Says the lynx, causing Solomon to pause.


    ¡°Just how long has it been around?¡± She can¡¯t help but ask.


    ¡°That, I honestly don¡¯t know. But I get paid, and it sure beats working for some schmuck who disrespects you.¡±


    Solomon sees a parallel forming in her mind between Bird¡¯s Eye and The System. She doesn¡¯t like it at all. ¡°I don¡¯t know, Ludwig doesn¡¯t seem that respectful either.¡±


    ¡°How come you¡¯re not afraid of me like¡­ Most have been so far?¡± Solomon asks. It¡¯s something that has been on her mind ever since she first met Shaquia.


    ¡°It¡¯s simple, really.¡± Says the Lynx. ¡°I don¡¯t believe in legends.¡±


    Solomon smiles at her remark, relieved to hear that. ¡°Finally, someone who understands¡­¡±


    ¡°Ludwig¡¯s methods are old. He insists we use them, but most of us know better. That one incident sure left a sour taste in people¡¯s mouths.¡± Her markings light up as more steam releases from her palms. ¡°We need you on our side, as a person, as one of us, not just someone who happens to have such power.¡± Shaquia states, causing Solomon to grin with happiness.


    ¡°You know, that does make me feel better.¡± Solomon can¡¯t help but have some doubts about what the lynx is saying, but it¡¯s a start.


    She can feel herself start heaving from the humidity. ¡°Not yet¡­¡±


    ¡°Who is Rufina?¡± She asks bluntly, causing Shaquia to pause.


    ¡°I really can¡¯t tell you about that. Sorry.¡± She notices that the cat seems to be feeling unwell. ¡°I think you had enough, Solomon. Don¡¯t want you to get a heat stroke.¡± The lynx says as she stands up and puts her robe back on. As much as she doesn¡¯t want to, Solomon stands up and follows her outside. Just the other side of the door feels so much colder. The two dry themselves and change once again, Solomon goes to open the door, now having a slight headache.


    ¡°Hold on.¡± Says Shaquia, causing the cat to stop. She then fills the room with steam and opens the door. As they walk outside, steam flows through the open door.


    ¡°What was that for?¡± Solomon asks in a whisper.


    ¡°Dramatic effect.¡± The lynx says with a wink.


    Solomon smiles slightly. ¡°This is so much better than standard procedure.¡±


    She then goes to take a quick shower, escorted to the bathroom by Shaquia, before going back to her room.


    ¡°Let¡¯s do that again another time.¡± She says to the lynx, who shoots her a smile.


    ¡°That can be arranged.¡±


    Solomon wishes her a good night and goes to sleep soon after.


    Today, she felt much more like she isn¡¯t here against her will, like she really is only here to get proper training and get to know more Mystic Ones. Maybe if they asked her before, she would have come willingly. Slowly, she could get used to this, as long as she lets her friends know that she¡¯s alive and mostly well. Even then, she may have just made some new friends here. Maybe she¡¯s getting comfortable with this too fast, maybe that¡¯s what they want. And maybe, just maybe, things will go more easily from now on¡­

 Chapter 11 - Devastation

    Solomon has been missing for nine days. The rest of Bird¡¯s Eye, other than Adelar, is gathered at Lisa¡¯s house; they can¡¯t risk meeting at the old station after what happened. Lisa sits on the couch, looking ahead seemingly at nothing, elbows on the table, her face buried in her palms. On her sides, Yaroslav and Durazo sit. They all wait in silence, until the front door opens and a disappointed Adelar steps through.


    ¡°Still nothing?¡± The wolf asks in a low voice, lifting her head.


    ¡°Nothing at all.¡± Adelar responds, shaking his head.


    ¡°After all this time, still no leads?¡± Yaroslav speaks up.


    ¡°We have her messages and that letter.¡± Adelar closes the door behind him and walks to the couch where the others are sitting. ¡°And that doesn¡¯t amount to much.¡±


    The eagle takes that familiar letter out of his pocket and reads it over once more as he slowly paces around the living room.


    ¡°We have your cat. You¡¯re not getting her back. Do not interfere with us and she¡¯ll be safe.¡±


    The words made Adelar feel the kind of rage he didn¡¯t think he could experience ever again when he first read it. What made it all the worse is the lack of sender information on it, no way to track who wrote it.


    ¡°So, that¡¯s all we can do now, eh?¡± Lisa shrugs with a wry smile. ¡°Just sit around like a bunch of arseholes?¡± She scoffs. ¡°Not even at base, no less?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s better than possibly having our conversations be listened to.¡± Adelar folds up the letter and puts it back in his pocket.


    ¡°I understand not telling the authorities, but we went through base so many times.¡± She stands up to turn around and face the eagle. ¡°You still think it could be-¡±


    ¡°We can¡¯t be too careful.¡± Adelar says in a forced, neutral tone. ¡°Besides¡­ We could have had an interrogation at least if the suspects weren¡¯t all dead.¡± He adds with a hint of cynicism.


    ¡°Oh, pardon me, mate!¡± Lisa puts her hands on her hips. ¡°I¡¯d like to see you be calm when there¡¯s some wanker throwing black fire at ya!¡± She walks around the couch and in front of Adelar. ¡°And we still don¡¯t know what it would have done to us if Father wasn¡¯t there!¡±


    ¡°We did what we could, Adelar.¡± Yaroslav chimes in, turning his head in their direction. ¡°We scoured the surroundings after the place burned down¡­ As I said before, we couldn¡¯t find that lion either.¡±


    ¡°Which I think we should be more concerned about.¡± Durazo remarks. ¡°She¡¯s seen us, she knows what happened¡­¡± He pauses and shakes his head, looking at the floor. ¡°Maybe she told the rest of them. Who¡¯s to say that Solomon is even alive after that?¡±


    ¡°DON¡¯T SAY THAT!¡± Lisa yells out, forcefully tapping her cane against the wooden floor, leaving a barely noticeable mark. No one says anything for a few seconds after.


    ¡°Listen¡­¡± Lisa says with a sigh after calming down a little. ¡°I just hate being so¡­ Helpless. We¡¯re basically the only ones who can help her and there¡¯s nothing we can do about it, not a damn thing!¡± Looking defeated, she sits back down on the couch.


    ¡°There¡¯s a good good chance that the police aren¡¯t working with them.¡± Yaroslav suggests.


    ¡°There¡¯s also a chance that they are.¡± Adelar retorts. ¡°Or that they¡¯ll just pay them off if we say anything to them about it and we end up at the bottom of a lake.¡±


    Lisa checks her phone as she sips a cup of tea, only to nearly spit it out in surprise. She puts the cup down on the table in front of her through a coughing fit.


    ¡°Well, lads...¡± She says excitedly after clearing her throat. ¡°We now know where she is!¡± She exclaims, standing up to show the others the good news: Solomon¡¯s phone¡¯s updated location.


    ¡°Where?¡± is all Yaroslav says as Durazo and Adelar lean closer to have a look. The feline¡¯s icon is set at just about the middle of England, far away from Lanolow.


    ¡°Her phone was turned on then!¡± Lisa goes to look into the exact location. ¡°Hold on.¡±


    ¡°But then what?¡± Durazo questions, half happy about finding something after more than a week, half concerned. ¡°We can¡¯t just walk in there!¡±


    ¡°A financing company?¡± Lisa raises an eyebrow. ¡°Won Leu-ie Finances?¡±


    ¡°No¡­¡± Adelar walks around the couch to take a closer look, incredulous.


    ¡°Oi, I know I prob¡¯ly butchered that, alright?¡± The wolf replies with a frown.


    ¡°It¡¯s not that!¡± Adelar takes the phone and has a look for himself. ¡°You wouldn¡¯t¡­ You were low, but not to this level!¡±


    Lisa takes back her phone before Adelar¡¯s arms light up in flames, causing her to recoil.


    ¡°Mind lettin¡¯ us in on that before you burn my bloody house down?¡± Lisa says with slight offence.


    Adelar¡¯s flames go out as he sits down at where Lisa was sitting, burying his face in his palms.


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    ¡°That¡­ bastard!¡± He says, trying to hold back his anger.


    ¡°What do you know about that place?¡± Durazo inquires, shining his light onto Adelar, which seems to calm him down, somewhat.


    ¡°I guess your past really does come back to haunt you.¡± Says Adelar, the others listening to him intently. ¡°Ludwig von Leue, head of Von Leue Finances. Someone who I used to call a friend. He used a large sum of money for dubious investments, which paid off for him.¡± He curls his fingers into a fist. ¡°Money which belonged to us, not just him.¡± He recalls, his eyes filled with anger. ¡°He was always powerful, but for him to be a part of that org¡­ He¡¯d have to be connected to Lion¡¯s Den as well then. Which means¡­¡±


    ¡°He has Mystic Ones.¡± Says Durazo.


    ¡°Exactly.¡± Adelar leans back on the couch and continues. ¡°He used that money and left me in the dust. But of course, I didn¡¯t give up. I worked my way up to where I am now¡­¡± His expression turns into a scowl. ¡°And I won¡¯t let him take anything more.¡± He stands up with a look of determination. ¡°We¡¯re going there, and we¡¯re getting Solomon back. I¡¯d like to have a few words with him myself as well.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll call Thali for backup.¡± Lisa states, already writing a message.


    ¡°What?¡± Adelar turns to her questioningly. ¡°Why?¡±


    ¡°Just trust me on this one, yeah?¡± Lisa looks up from her phone with a smirk. ¡°I¡¯m certain she¡¯ll be more than happy to help us.¡±


    It has been five days since Solomon arrived at the System, her morale has only gone up since her last meeting with Shaquia. It may be an illusion they put up to make her feel comfortable here, but if that¡¯s the case, it¡¯s working better than she¡¯d like to admit. The lack of progress in her training discourages her slightly, but in time, she knows she will master this power of hers. She¡¯s the only one alive, as far as she knows, if she can¡¯t do it, who even could?


    Her skill has to lie in her power, for it certainly doesn¡¯t lie in her hand-to-hand combat skills as it turns out. They tried to teach her a way to defend herself with just her claws, but that was short-lived. Stefano described her fighting as ¡°remarkably slow for a feline¡±. Therefore, it was put off so she could focus on her power more. It may not look like it, but she can almost feel  the progress she¡¯s made.


    ¡°Tomorrow will be a big day.¡± Shaquia announces as she and Solomon approach her room.


    ¡°Ludwig will want a personal audience with you. Be at his office at 9 in the morning. By yourself.¡±


    Those words are enough to get the cat secretly excited. Finally! The man himself will apparently trust her enough not to have Shaquia follow her around! ¡°Took him long enough.¡±


    She wishes the lynx goodnight and goes to bed shortly after.


    Her dream is as she has come to expect it to be. She sits down at a building, so does the figure.


    Solomon then gets an idea: she stretches out one arm and writes ¡°Can you read this?¡± into the sand before her. Unlike how dreams are usually, the text doesn¡¯t change when she looks away and back, which she finds odd. The figure looks at what she wrote for a few, long seconds, Solomon guesses that it¡¯s trying to comprehend it. It stays motionless for an awkward minute before Solomon tries writing the same in her native tongue, French. The figure¡¯s gaze follows her hand as she writes, and to her surprise, it begins writing symbols into the sand in a similar manner. They remind Solomon of the ones she saw in the book, although she still can¡¯t understand them. ¡°That¡¯s¡­ Interesting.¡±


    The figure lifts its head to glare at her with its piercing, green eyes. That is something she¡¯ll never get used to¡­ Looking into those eyes fills her with dread, so she tries not to make eye contact.


    ¡°What do you even want from me?¡± She asks, snapping her gaze at the figure¡¯s ¡°face¡±. It then reaches out with its right hand as if expecting a handshake, like it¡¯s been doing for the last few nights. Every time, Solomon felt more and more compelled to return it. What would it do if she did? Why does it want that? Would this all cease if she just did it? For how long can she resist the temptation, and her curiosity? All questions that rush through her head as she considers the offer.


    She looks at its dripping hand and contemplates for a few long moments. She knows that eventually, she¡¯ll give in. The figure has been in her dreams for so long, it would likely haunt her for the rest of her life in this desolate, dead dreamscape¡­ No more than two shadows chasing one another. With one last thought, she makes up her mind.


    ¡°I¡¯m so sick of shadows...¡±


    She reaches out and firmly grasps the figure¡¯s hand, surprised that she doesn¡¯t just wake up. It has a feel to it, not just a shadow after all. However, it doesn¡¯t feel like she¡¯s holding the hand of a person, something is just wrong¡­ She wasn¡¯t sure what to expect when she did it, but nothing certainly wouldn¡¯t have been her first guess. For about a minute, she sits there, opposite to the figure, holding its hand. Nothing happens, absolutely nothing.


    ¡°So is this¡­ It?¡± She eventually asks and then recoils slightly as she sees teeth form on the figure¡¯s head. Teeth, the bone around the mouth, then an entire feline skull can now be seen. Solomon tries to pull her hand away, only to find that she can¡¯t.


    Whatever darkness covers the figure is disappearing. She can see its cervical vertebrae, then its shoulder blades and collarbone, ribcage, arms, pelvis, tail and leg bones become visible one after another. The figure is unrecognisable from what it was, now taking the form of the skeleton of a feline. The only things to suggest that it¡¯s even the same figure are the pair of piercing, green eyes, appearing as no more than circular lights in its eye sockets and its hands dripping with the same, green liquid. An intense sense of fear rises inside Solomon, it¡¯s just a dream, she¡¯ll wake up soon, she¡¯s sure¡­ She stands up and tries to pull away, but the figure, now a skeleton, won¡¯t let her. Despite being just bones, its hand is strong, keeping her from running.


    ¡°Let me go!¡± She yells, but the being ignores her.


    The skeleton opens its mouth and stands up, its eyes staring into Solomon¡¯s very soul. It turns her around and grasps her from behind, holding each of her hands. She struggles to shake loose, but can hardly even move as it embraces her. She then feels a searing pain in her hands and arms, and as she looks down, to her horror, she sees the skeletal limbs slowly sink into her own shadowy body.


    ¡°No! Stop!¡± She cries out in desperation, but it¡¯s no use. She feels the skeleton sink into her legs, tail, upper body and worst of all, the back of her head, the sensation akin to repeatedly being hit with a sledgehammer in every part of her body.


    She cries out in pain, regretful for touching the figure in the first place as she closes her eyes. The feeling lingers for a few long moments after the skeleton disappears into her completely, followed by her collapsing onto the sand, writhing. She grasps at the sand around her, trying to stand up.


    She then opens her eyes¡­ And finds herself to be in her designated room, every part of her body aching. With a feeling of terror, she looks down at herself, especially her hands, but nothing seems to have changed. She stands up, almost falls over from a sudden bout of dizziness, and sits back down on the bed. She isn¡¯t quite sure what, but she feels like something definitely changed inside her. For just a few moments, she feels a sense of intense gratitude.


    ¡°What¡­ Was that?¡±

 Chapter 12 - Revelation

    Compulsion. Obligation. Need. That is what she felt, looking at the figure. It was such a strong sensation, which she couldn¡¯t possibly hope to resist anymore, the chance that it would finally end and she wouldn¡¯t need to live with it for the rest of her life, it was all too tempting.


    She checks the time, it is 8:54. ¡°No no, I can¡¯t be late!¡± This is her chance at getting Ludwig to really trust her, she can¡¯t let some skeleton ruin it, no matter how inconvenient the timing is. She gets up, as much as she can, anyway, quickly changes into her suit, and carefully stumbles to the door. Every step she takes feels like wading through a thorny bush. She leans against the wall, panting, opens the door, and with lumbering steps, makes her way to the railing, her arms hardly strong enough to support her body as she leans on it. The people around give her curious and suspicious looks.


    Everything hurts, the pain only got worse since she stood up. She isn¡¯t going to make it to the lifts like this, let alone Ludwig¡¯s office.


    ¡°Are you alright, sire?¡± She hears a familiar voice and looks up to see Andreas standing on air platforms at the next floor¡¯s level. She exhales, somewhat relieved.


    ¡°No¡­¡± She manages to say. ¡°Please, take me to Ludwig¡¯s office.¡± She pleads, legs trembling.


    ¡°What happened, sire?¡± The crow asks, taking a few steps in the air down to her level.


    ¡°Doesn¡¯t matter! You have to¡­ Take me there. Please.¡± She collapses onto her knees, feeling as if both of her legs are broken. Andreas looks at her with concern, but doesn¡¯t question it, at least not verbally.


    ¡°Very well, sire.¡± He goes over the railing and gently picks her up. He then starts walking downwards in the air. Seeing someone walk down air as if there¡¯s a stairway is surreal enough, but experiencing it, even more so. She can see so well from up here¡­


    Her eyes are drawn to the warehouse entrance and an overwhelming compulsion comes over her. She has to go in¡­ She absolutely has to.


    She shakes her head, snapping out of it, deeply worried for a good moment before a wave of calm comes over her.


    She is taken right in front of Ludwig¡¯s office where Andreas puts her down. She struggles to stand up, teeth gritted from the pain in her legs.


    ¡°I could arrange a meeting for you at the medical room, sire.¡± He states with a hint of apprehension in his voice.


    ¡°I¡­ May need that. Thanks.¡± She responds without turning and opens the door to Ludwig¡¯s office.


    Inside, the silver wolf is sitting at his metal desk, waiting with his hands put together. He was smiling when she entered, but it quickly turns into a look of concern.


    ¡°Are you¡­ Okay?¡± He asks as she lumbers over to the desk.


    ¡°I¡¯ve been better¡­¡± She says in response, grasping at her chest.


    Ludwig stands up and goes to help her stand.


    ¡°What even happened to you?¡± He asks, pulling a chair from another desk and sitting her down.


    ¡°I just woke up and¡­ Let¡¯s just say that I didn¡¯t sleep too well¡­¡± She manages to say.


    Ludwig raises an eyebrow at that.


    ¡°It¡¯s a cat thing.¡± She blurts out the first thing that comes to her mind, causing him to shrug and sit back down at his desk.


    ¡°Anyway¡­ I wanted to talk to you about something very important.¡± Solomon can¡¯t help but feel rather impartial about his statement. She is interested, but her head is spinning and everything hurts.


    ¡°Due to several suggestions from peers, I have chosen to recruit you as a member of The System for the time being.¡± The wolf states with a stone cold expression. ¡°Shaquia¡­ Her idea must have worked.¡± Solomon nods, looking rather uninterested and tired.


    ¡°But, I need a little information from you.¡± Ludwig begins to say, but Solomon doesn¡¯t understand his next question from the pulsing on her head. She feels a sense of dread inside her¡­ But that¡¯s not all. She can sense the feeling of calm. The two sensations at the same time make her head hurt. Distracted, she closes her eyes and rubs her forehead.


    ¡°I know, it¡¯s a hard question, but¡­¡± The wolf says, but Solomon interrupts him.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, could you repeat that?¡± She says at last.


    ¡°Does this happen every time you don¡¯t get enough sleep?¡± Ludwig complains with furrowed brows.


    Solomon nods slowly, rubbing her aching wrists.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, it won¡¯t happen again.¡± She promises.


    ¡°Hm. Back to the original question¡­¡± Says the wolf. ¡°These people that you worked with¡­ Are they also Mystic Ones?¡± He asks bluntly, causing Solomon to heave. She feels panicked, but calm, no, downright serene at the same time. That calm overcomes her, feeling like a suggestion as to what she should do¡­ He already knows. He is just testing her.


    ¡°Yes.¡± She gives a straight answer.


    Ludwig smiles, then chuckles softly.


    ¡°Well then. What magic types are there?¡± He asks, lightly tapping the desk.


    ¡°Electric, frost, and light.¡± She says in the same, docile tone. She doesn¡¯t mention Adelar, since she didn¡¯t hear him be mentioned in that conversation she overheard.


    ¡°That¡¯s all it took, eh?¡± Ludwig laughs. ¡°You are an Acid One without a doubt, living up to the legends with how quickly you sell out your friends.¡±


    Anger. Hatred. Rage. They all overcome Solomon as she quickly stands up and slams a hand on the desk, marking prominently displayed on the back of her hand.


    ¡°Our deal is still up.¡± She declares weakly, but determined. Her other hand slightly twitches. ¡°If you as much as lay a finger on them¡­¡± She pauses, not finishing her sentence.


    ¡°I never said I would do that as a result, now did I?¡± Ludwig says with a grin. That grin¡­ Solomon feels mocked. She is not being taken seriously, is she? The feeling slowly distances from her, getting replaced with the pain in her body that she briefly forgot about. She sits down, grasping the arms of the chair.


    ¡°I¡¯ll have you know, your little friends caused me quite the trouble at Lion¡¯s Den. Three owl guards, seven staff members, and a Mystic One, a good friend of mine, Harper. All dead. Do you expect me to overlook all of that?¡± He asks in a grim tone and expression.


    ¡°What? They killed eleven people there?¡± She feels bewildered because of what was shared with her, but collects herself. Or rather, she feels like she collects herself.


    ¡°If you want me to help you, you will have to.¡± She states with a smug grin.


    Ludwig slams on the desk, it sounds metallic. Too metallic¡­ Solomon looks at his hand, still a colour of silver, but smooth and shiny. His hand then seems to be covered with fur once again. Solomon figures it out right after.


    ¡°You¡¯re one as well, aren¡¯t you?¡± She asks.


    ¡°Why are they so important to you anyway?¡± He demands, ignoring the cat¡¯s question. ¡°You could have everything here. Why do you choose to stick with them?¡±


    Solomon shakes her head, sensing a newfound confidence rise from deep within her.


    ¡°I¡¯m not as deceitful as you think. But just as deadly.¡± She exclaims. ¡°Grayson and that tiger¡­ That was me.¡± The wolf grits his teeth as he looks at her in disbelief. ¡°Camille and that butler? That was me as well.¡± Ludwig stands up from his desk, growling. ¡°And now Lion¡¯s Den¡­ Seems like the legends rubbed off on them.¡± She says with her arms crossed, smirking.


    A silver sheen appears on all of Ludwig¡¯s body, including his suit. He reaches out, grabs Solomon and lifts her up. She can see his other hand clenched into a fist. But she cares not.


    ¡°Go ahead. Lose your chance at the Acid One¡¯s alliance.¡± She says, not a hint of fear in her eyes.


    The same can¡¯t be said for her mind. ¡°Solomon you idiot! Why did you say any of that? Do you see who you¡¯re trying to convince?¡± But that is as long as her internal panic lasts before that strange sense of calm washes over her mind once again.


    Ludwig looks her in the eyes with a growl.


    ¡°You admit to murdering members of an organisation right to its founder¡­¡± He says, his expression turning to a toothy smile. ¡°That takes some nerve. You¡¯re not afraid in the slightest, are you?¡±


    Solomon shakes her head in response. In her mind, a brief scream.


    ¡°You live up to the legends, Acid One.¡± He puts her back down, laughing. The metallic lustre disappearing from his body.


    ¡°So¡­¡± He says, as if she didn¡¯t just admit to her crimes. ¡°All of those were your doing?¡± Solomon thinks back to the scenes. There is definite proof of acid damage at both of them. ¡°I have to say, I didn¡¯t think you had it in you.¡± The wolf exclaims. ¡°They weren¡¯t just anyone. They were skilled in their magic, and you overcame all of them?¡± He asks, looking almost impressed. Solomon just nods in response. ¡°I didn¡¯t want to say any of that¡­ Why, why did I do that?¡±


    These thoughts don¡¯t last long and are replaced by a sense of immense satisfaction. Whatever she¡¯s doing, it seems to be working so far.


    ¡°I need the strongest in my organisation. And you¡­ You will be the strongest yet. Join us, and I¡¯ll turn a blind eye to all the damage you and your little friends caused.¡± He reaches out, expecting Solomon to shake his hand.


    ¡°Leave them alone, and I will join you.¡± She states.


    ¡°If that¡¯s all it takes¡­ Fine.¡± Ludwig says with a chuckle.


    Solomon then reaches out and shakes the wolf¡¯s hand. After that, he takes out a piece of paper.


    ¡°Sign this, and it¡¯ll seal our deal.¡±


    Solomon looks down at the sheet, a contract detailing her duties as a member of the organisation. After a quick read, she can see that she wouldn¡¯t sign her rights away by joining, but it isn¡¯t likely that they would let her go all too easily. ¡°Above all, keep the organisation a secret.¡± A notion she can understand.


    She takes a pen and writes her name on the paper with remarkable indifference. The wolf watches on, looking pleased.


    ¡°Welcome to The System.¡±


    And so, it is done. Solomon is now a part of the organisation that she was so desperate to find just a few days ago. She knows that there is one reason behind them doing this: they couldn¡¯t take her power, so they need her as well. That might be the only reason why she¡¯s still alive. ¡°You¡¯re only doing this for your friends, Solomon. This will keep them safe¡­ Hopefully.¡±


    ¡°I think you¡¯ve earned this.¡± Says the wolf and hands her a radio. ¡°Use this if you need help or have any questions.¡±


    Questions, Solomon certainly has.


    ¡°You¡¯re different from what I¡¯ve seen before.¡± She remarks, her head pounding.


    ¡°Why of course. An ordinary wolf couldn¡¯t lead an organisation like this.¡± He replies, his hands gleaming. ¡°I am True Metal.¡± He adds. Solomon can¡¯t help but express her lack of understanding.


    ¡°And that means?¡±


    ¡°My entire body is covered in the colour of metal. My magic and I, one and the same.¡± He states. Solomon thinks back to Thalia. ¡°She¡¯s just like him¡­ But with darkness. No doubt they¡¯d be interested in her.¡±


    ¡°Exceedingly rare, but its power is undeniable.¡± Suddenly, his entire body becomes covered in metal again. ¡°None can harm me in this form.¡± He adds.


    ¡°It¡¯s metal then? I can melt metal.¡± She says and takes a mental note regarding that, causing Ludwig to frown and power down his magic.


    ¡°Very observant¡­¡±


    Solomon wonders what exactly might that other combination be that¡¯s similar to her power. It¡¯s a sore spot for the wolf, it must also be able to damage him in some way.


    ¡°So what¡¯s the plan?¡± Solomon asks with a heavy sigh.


    ¡°We can discuss that when you¡¯re feeling better. Go now, do whatever cat thing you need to do to make this go away.¡±


    Solomon nods and stands up to leave. Her legs feel like they¡¯re going to explode. She stumbles out the door, where Andreas is still waiting along with Shaquia.


    ¡°Good Lord, you look terrible.¡± The lynx remarks with a look of sympathy.


    ¡°I am aware, thank you.¡± Solomon responds with a hint of annoyance in her voice. ¡°But guess what¡­ I¡¯m one of you now.¡± She informs the two of them, her head still spinning, vision getting blurry. Shaquia looks pleased, Andreas looks more concerned about her condition.


    ¡°Good! That means we can let you in on more and more as we go on.¡± Shaquia says before Solomon falls to her knees, panting heavily.


    The story has been stolen; if detected on Amazon, report the violation.


    ¡°Sire?¡± Says Andreas, looking down at her along with the lynx.


    ¡°I really need¡­ To rest.¡± She says as she collapses on the floor.


    Solomon wakes up in a bed at what she guesses is the medical room. She feels a soothing light on her arms and head. Looking up, there is a person in a lab coat and a mask, Solomon isn¡¯t sure what species he is.


    ¡°She¡¯s awake.¡± He states in a calm manner. She feels decidedly better than she was before becoming unconscious. Looking around, she sees beds, some empty, but most not. ¡°Maybe they¡¯re the warehouse staff?¡± She doesn¡¯t see Sal, however, figuring that he must have recovered already.


    She looks to her left and notices Stefano sitting by her bed.


    ¡°Oh¡­ Hey, instructor. Fancy seeing you here.¡± She says in a lighthearted tone.


    ¡°I had to come check on my apprentice, didn¡¯t I?¡± He responds with a smile. ¡°I¡¯ve gotten to know some rather unfortunate news about you, however.¡± His smile fades, which slightly worries Solomon.


    ¡°Could you give us a minute?¡± He asks the Bright One shining his light on the cat. He nods and walks over to another patient.


    ¡°So, you met Camille? A gecko, Frost One?¡± He asks candidly. Solomon feels a sense of guilt¡­ No, she feels nothing. Absolutely no strong feelings about the incident.


    ¡°I have.¡± She responds calmly.


    ¡°I see¡­ I was informed that she died. By your hands, no less.¡± Says the otter, sombrely.


    ¡°I did it. Yes.¡± She says, closing her eyes so she wouldn¡¯t have to face the otter. He doesn¡¯t respond for a couple long moments.


    ¡°Camille¡­ She always had such strange methods, but they worked. Always so blunt and impatient¡­¡± He begins to say. ¡°And to an extent, terribly annoying. But your power¡­ Your acid¡­ She didn¡¯t deserve that.¡±


    Solomon opens her eyes and looks at the otter.


    ¡°I didn¡¯t use it on her!¡± She exclaims, thinking back to the scene. The sound of that crack. ¡°I broke her neck.¡± She states, regaining her composure.


    Stefano nods.


    ¡°I see¡­ That makes it¡­ A little better.¡± He says as he leans in closer to the cat.


    ¡°But then why did you have to kill her?¡± He asks with a grim look.


    ¡°Camille saw my marking, that¡¯s when things got bad.¡± She lies, a sense of peace overcoming her. ¡°I couldn¡¯t let her take me. Or live.¡± She states, coldly.


    Stefano nods once again.


    ¡°Very well, Solomon.¡± He says in a ghastly tone. ¡°I¡¯ll await your return to the training hall when you feel better.¡± He stands up and walks out of the medical room.


    Solomon shakes her head, snapping out of the sensation. ¡°Just like earlier¡­ This is bad.¡± She lies in bed, looking at the ceiling, thinking. Whatever happened in her last dream can¡¯t have been good¡­ Her dream! She could go back and see what happens!


    Just then, Shaquia enters the medical room.


    ¡°Solomon?¡± She says, giving her a look of deep worry.


    ¡°I¡¯m fine, please, just leave me alone for now.¡± She responds in a tone harsher than she intended. The lynx nods and simply leaves.


    Solomon checks the time, it is 10:34. closes her eyes and tries to go to sleep¡­ She opens them soon after, seeing that she can¡¯t just sleep right now. She glances at her watch. It reads 13:57. With a gasp and a blink, she checks again. Sure enough, she isn¡¯t misreading it. ¡°How¡­?¡± Not only did she sleep for over three hours, but there was no dream to speak of. Not one she can remember, that is. She would normally be elated about that, but the implications terrify her. If this is what it wanted all along¡­


    A terrible compulsion comes over her mind right after. She has to get out of here. She has to go to the warehouse. She just has to.


    Solomon sits up, then gets out of bed. Her legs still hurt a little, but it¡¯s definitely more bearable. ¡°Why would I want to go there?¡± She questions for just a second before the thought overcomes her once again. Get to the warehouse.


    She walks to the medical room door, nothing but the warehouse on her mind.


    ¡°Miss! Why aren¡¯t you in bed?¡± She hears a voice come from behind her. She merely opens the door and exits without even looking. Her eyes are drawn to the lifts and she makes her way towards them.


    ¡°Miss!¡± She hears the same voice say.


    Annoying. So unfathomably annoying. She turns around and shakes her head. The nurse looks ahead in surprise.


    ¡°Miss, you have to¡­¡±


    Solomon breaks into a sprint. No longer caring for the lifts, she will take the stairs. Some try to stop and question her, but she is fast and light on her feet. They can¡¯t get her. Not when she has something so important to do. Others eye her suspiciously. How could they possibly understand?


    She runs down all the way to the main hall. No one follows. Good. She walks to the entrance of the warehouse, the guard stationed there nods and lets her in. She walks in and looks around. No one¡¯s in sight. She shakes her head and looks down, rubbing her temples. ¡°Why¡­ Did I come here?¡±


    Another sense of compulsion: knowledge, wisdom, information. She has to find the book again. It will answer all of her questions, she just knows it will¡­ But if that raccoon is here and spots her, it¡¯s over. She can¡¯t risk that.


    She looks down at her feet. Those shoes¡­ Too loud. Her steps will echo throughout the warehouse. She¡¯s a cat, her steps will be silent without them.


    With that thought, she takes off her shoes and begins wandering the warehouse, looking out for any workers or the raccoon. A turn left, and there he is, on top of a ladder, rearranging items she couldn¡¯t care less about. The book¡­ She has to find the book.


    She thinks back to her first time here. One turn here, straight ahead, one more turn, one more long hallway¡­


    And there it is. The container she saw Benedict place the book into. Intense joy comes over her. Quietly and carefully, she walks over to the container. It¡¯s locked with a padlock, nothing she couldn¡¯t deal with. She grabs the padlock and powers up her magic. In a couple seconds, it is no more than black sludge. She powers down, hoping no one heard that, and swings the container open. There it is¡­


    Carefully, she takes it out of the container, and a realisation hits her. ¡°How am I supposed to read this?¡±


    She feels an idea form within her: it¡¯s likely written by Mystic Ones¡­ She¡¯s a Mystic One. Surely, there is a way for her to read it. She places the book on the table and holds her hand above it. She lights up her marking, as if infusing an object, no acid comes out, but her magic is present.


    She watches in awe as the formerly unreadable symbols are perceived as plain English in her eyes. ¡°Ledger of the Mystic Ones: A Comprehensive Guide and History of Magic.¡± It reads. She gasps softly. Finally, what she was searching for all this time¡­ Answers.


    Greedily, she opens the book. The first page is dedicated to the authors, all with old names she doesn¡¯t recognise, a mild sense of doubt looming over her mind.


    She shakes her head, flipping pages. The next few are a table of contents. She skims through it, seeing pages and pages dedicated to nothing but the history of Mystic Ones.


    She looks around, but doesn¡¯t see anyone. She continues reading. There¡¯s only one thing that she wants to know¡­ She sees that in-depth information on the different types of magic is towards the back of the book. She flips through the pages, seeing the names along with proper illustrations, combinations, incompatibilities¡­ All of it is in this book. How long was she supposed to wait until she could read all this?


    She looks at the names on the top of the pages as she flips through. Blazing Ones, Frost Ones, Lightning Ones, Windswept Ones¡­ So much content dedicated to just these four. Bright Ones, Dark Ones, the combined pages on just these two outnumber the previous ones. Metal Ones, Sanguine Ones¡­ She¡¯s so close, she can feel her tail flicking from side to side in excitement. One more page, the anticipation inside her grows palpable¡­


    ¡°Origins of Splicing¡± it reads at the top. Solomon is dumbfounded. ¡°Where is it?!¡± She inspects the pages and on closer look, she sees that one page has been torn out.


    Fury builds inside her. She can almost feel her blood boil as she looks at the torn base where her answers should be. It looks so mocking¡­ So tantalising! She came all this way, she¡¯s done everything she has, only to be denied her answers? And why only one page? She stifles a shout of anger and loses concentration, a drop of acid drips onto the book.


    She looks down at it in panic, trying to wipe it away before it could cause any damage¡­ But no harm comes to the book. The drop of acid slides on the paper like a raindrop on a leaf, all the way to the where the page was torn, shining as it does.


    A green, spectral page forms where the page was torn. At the top of the page, it reads ¡°Acid Ones.¡± Solomon can¡¯t stop herself from softly laughing in delight. Finally¡­ She will have her answers.


    She takes the book in her hands and with redoubled interest and yearning, begins reading the first line. ¡°A mockery of nature.¡±


    Her heart sinks. She blinks once, twice, making sure she read it correctly. She compares it to the first line of Blazing Ones. ¡°Soothing warmth or raging pyre, the duality of Blazing Ones cannot be ignored. Although rare in nature, Blazing Ones are the most common type of Mystic Ones.¡±


    This makes no sense. She re-reads that one sentence over and over again. She powers her magic down and up, but still, it reads the same. ¡°What does that even mean?¡±


    She reads on. ¡°The first and hopefully last artificially created type of magic.¡± Solomon feels a sense of pride inside her, but it is quickly replaced with horror as she reads on. ¡°Rather than a blessing from nature, it is a curse, made by a once great mind which it carries with itself.¡± She shakes her head and softly begins to sob as she reads on. ¡°There can only ever be one Acid One as a result of its origin. Every one hundred years, a most vile and evil person is chosen to bear the spiral markings, cursing them to be haunted by its creator in their sleep. Those chosen as hosts are invariably selfish, deceitful, and have their loyalties go as deep as pockets, much like the one who created it. If such a person is discovered, they are to be executed immediately. See: The Two Cities incident.¡±


    Solomon recoils, almost falling over. She leans on a shelf and begins to pant. ¡°No¡­ No, this can¡¯t be!¡± She may have done things that she¡¯s come to regret, but she isn¡¯t evil¡­ It just isn¡¯t true. She¡¯s never killed anyone that didn¡¯t warrant it.


    She feels obligated to continue reading. She doesn¡¯t want to, she doesn¡¯t want to read what other horrible LIES are written in the book.


    She leans over the page once again. ¡°It is made to have but one purpose: to destroy. It allows the Acid One to create, control, and turn any liquid into acid. Even its blessing only serves to protect the Acid One¡¯s belongings from the magic itself, uncaring as to what happens to those around.¡±


    Solomon remembers what her first thought was when she got to know exactly what her infusion/blessing can do. What she did right after, she made sure it wouldn¡¯t affect her things. ¡°NO! I was happy I could do something that wasn¡¯t destruction¡­¡± The thought quickly fades as she reads on¡­


    ¡°Compatibility: none. All who attempt to splice Acid will invariably have their blood turned to acid due to the unique defensive reaction that the original creator added to it. A testament to his greed, how he wanted no one else to have such power.¡± She sees a small, crude illustration of a figure, melting, dissolving from the inside.


    Solomon feels sick to her stomach. No. She cannot continue. She weeps as she falls to her knees. She¡¯s about to slam her fist against the floor¡­ But finds herself unable. Her hand just hangs in the air, unmoving.


    ¡°What is happening?¡± She feels a great sense of anger, rage burning inside her, it¡¯s unlike anything she¡¯s experienced. But no¡­ She isn¡¯t angry. She is sad, terribly sad about the information she just learned. But then why, why does she feel angry, still? Trying to collect herself, she suddenly becomes aware of something: she feels like someone is standing behind her, and she¡¯s feeling that person¡¯s emotions as well as her own at the same time, creating an impossible mixture of drowning sorrow and blazing resentment.


    Her heart beats faster and faster as she comes to the realisation.


    ¡°No no no, leave me alone!¡± She shouts, not caring if she¡¯s heard anymore. Her hand moves against her will, each finger bending and straightening one by one. She feels her other hand move as well, they grab the edge of the table and pull her up. One hand grabs her head and makes her look down at the book.


    ¡°Please, stop! Someone-¡± She cries out, her other hand clasping her mouth shut. She reads the last lines of the page. ¡°Additional notes: The name of the original Acid One, its creator, has been removed in later editions, for he has been deemed unworthy of the honour of being included.¡±


    She can feel the anger rise to a boiling point as she reads it, the hand holding her head slams the book shut, then hits the table with enough force to make her wince. Strangely enough, for just a moment, the rage is taken over by a sense of worry, but it doesn¡¯t last long.


    Solomon sobs as she looks down at her hand, the marking glowing intensely. Gathering what little willpower she still has, she pulls her hand away from her mouth, reaches forwards and looks¡­ The markings glow so intensely, they resemble circular lights more than spirals. The hue seems ever so slightly different, rather than dark green, the marking glow in an intense, piercing green colour.


    She can take no more of this. She wants to lie down and cry, but what good would that do for her? She needs help, and she needs it now.


    ¡°HELP!¡± She yells and to her relief, hears hurried footsteps soon after.


    ¡°Solomon?¡± Says a voice she recognises as one belonging to Benedict. A hand is over her mouth again, she fights to turn and look at the racoon. Nearly stumbling into a shelf as her hand flails. She tries to pull the hand away from her mouth, but she can¡¯t break free from the creator¡¯s influence.


    ¡°What happened?¡± Benedict asks, concerned, walking closer.


    She shakes her head as if to say ¡°don¡¯t come any closer¡±, but he doesn¡¯t seem to understand. Her once flailing hand relaxes, hanging by her side. She wants to scream, she wants to wipe the tears from her face, but her left hand is firmly around her mouth.


    Then, her right hand violently reaches towards the raccoon, pulling her with it as she nearly falls over with each step.


    ¡°Whoa, what are you doing?!¡± He asks in a panicked tone, taking a step back. She involuntarily rushes at him, trying to do everything in her power to tell him to run.


    ¡°Stop or-¡± He begins, but sees that there¡¯s no reasoning with her. Not in this condition. He puts his hands together and opens up his palms. ¡°You give me no choice!¡± A stream of water shoots out from his hands, hitting Solomon and pushing her back. She falls onto her back, soaked.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry!¡± Says the raccoon, taking a step towards her. ¡°Have you calmed down now?¡± He asks, worried.


    Solomon¡¯s left hand releases her mouth, both of them now touching the wet floor.


    ¡°Benedict!¡± She cries out, and hears a sound all around her: sizzling. Looking around, the water is turning into acid, eating through the floor. The liquid moves away from where she¡¯s lying, her hands still in contact with it.


    ¡°RUN! Get away from me!¡± She shouts, in tears.


    The water she was blasted with is all turned to acid. It moves around the floors, seemingly controlled. The shelves that make contact with it start to sink into it and tip over.


    ¡°What are you doing?!¡± Yells the racoon. The acid is quickly dissolving the floor, leaving a pillar of concrete where Solomon is now kneeling.


    Benedict takes his radio and rushes to the entrance.


    ¡°Backup! I need backup at the warehouse!¡± He yells into the radio.


    ¡°What is it?¡± Shaquia asks, sounding more concerned this time.


    ¡°Solomon, her power¡­ Oh God¡­ Bring the tranq rifle, Andreas!¡± Is all the cat hears, coming from her radio. She is left alone with her thoughts. Or at least she wishes, for she is not entirely alone, and won¡¯t be for the foreseeable future.


    The acid spreads, and eventually stops when it is no longer in contact with her hands, turning into a black liquid. Inside her, the sense of hatred, ire, betrayal persists.


    Benedict soon comes back with the other higher-ups, including Ludwig. The looks on their faces say it all.


    Lifting her head, she gets a good look at the sheer destruction she caused:  The hole around the pillar that it left looks to be about twenty metres deep and fifty metres long in all directions. She feels a sudden sense of guilt and remorse.


    As she spots them, her hands move on their own to cover her face as she sobs. Ludwig starts laughing, he laughs for many, long seconds.


    ¡°Marvellous!¡± He finally says, his expression that of ecstasy.


    Shaquia is left speechless.


    From the footsteps, Solomon can hear one of them pace around.


    ¡°Please¡­ I didn¡¯t do this!¡± She cries out weakly, unsure if they even hear her.


    ¡°I¡¯ll handle this, sire.¡± Says the voice of Andreas, somehow still calm. Her hands move away from her face, she sees him float above the pit the acid made, holding a tranquiliser rifle. Looking over to the rest, Benedict is carefully looking from the hole to her, then back to the hole, grasping the sides of his head.


    ¡°Be still, sire.¡± Andreas aims the rifle at Solomon.


    Her hands are then moved forward in a defensive stance as she stands up, hoping it¡¯ll make it easier for him to hit.


    Andreas fires, a dart hits her in the neck. Unlike last time, she is delighted to feel it.


    ¡°Got her, sire.¡±


    Her hand pulls out the dart and tries to hold on to the wound. ¡°Turn any liquid into acid¡­¡± She thinks back to what she read. That would neutralise the effects of the dart. She also would rather not have acid in her bloodstream, whether or not she¡¯s immune to it.


    ¡°It¡¯s my body¡­ And I won¡¯t let you have it!¡± She shouts as she takes a step to the edge of the pillar.


    ¡°What are you doing?!¡± Ludwig shouts. Her hand no longer resists and goes limp before she has control over it again.


    ¡°And don¡¯t you dare¡­¡± She feels herself getting dizzy from the dart, her vision blurring. She loses her balance and tries to fall back onto the pillar, but due to the dizziness, is unable to. As she starts to fall, her hand stretches out to grab the edge against her will, but can¡¯t quite reach it. Four blurred figures is all she sees before it all goes dark.

 Chapter 13 - Aftermath

    Cold, dark, empty. That is the environment Solomon finds herself in. She feels like her body, her very soul is going to dissolve, if it wasn¡¯t for something that¡¯s keeping them from doing so. Here, she is truly left alone with her thoughts, trying to comprehend what just transpired. The warehouse, the book, the creator¡­ She doesn¡¯t understand, why her, of all people?


    ¡°No, that can¡¯t be¡­ I¡¯m not evil¡­¡± She repeats the phrase to herself ad nauseam. It is far too late to ponder such thoughts, as the creator achieved his goal of finding a suitable host. And that¡¯s what Solomon can¡¯t get over. Why did it have to be her? She wishes she could just ask, she wishes she could get one final answer. Answers¡­ It was all she wanted, and now that she got it, she may just be dead. If that is the case, at least this¡­ Thing won¡¯t be unleashed on the world for another hundred years. Or so she hopes.


    ¡°I never wanted this¡­¡± Solomon truly wishes that she was just an ordinary cat, not caught up in any surreptitious magical business. That by itself maybe wouldn¡¯t be so bad, but why did she have to have the one power that causes her to be possessed by an ancient¡­ Soul? Spirit? She knows not.


    ¡°It¡¯s going to be expensive.¡± She hears someone say, waking her. With that thought, she opens her eyes, everything is blurry. It takes her a few long seconds to adjust, but she can make out who the people in the room with her are. She feels a horrible pain inside her chest, a broken rib, possibly. She lifts her head to get a better look.


    ¡°She¡¯s awake!¡± Exclaims someone in a lab coat and a mask. Solomon isn¡¯t sure what species he is. ¡°Deja vu¡­¡± After a couple more seconds, her eyes finally adjust properly. The person in the lab coat takes a few steps back, others run out from the room. She can see Andreas pointing the tranquiliser at her.


    ¡°What¡­ Happened?¡± She manages to say as Ludwig pokes his head into the room. It¡¯s a different medical room than the one she was previously at, only having space for one person.


    All of a sudden, she feels her hands tingle. She quickly lifts them to get a good look at them, noticing that she is connected to an IV. Nothing out of the ordinary happens. The markings don¡¯t glow that horrible, piercing green colour, in fact, they don¡¯t glow at all. Despite that, she can feel it, she can feel him. In fact, she can feel exactly how he¡¯s feeling: regretful, apparently. Solomon finds that concerning, but at the same time, can¡¯t help but be interested to an extent. For whatever reason, he can¡¯t take over her hands, which she very much finds to be a welcome change. Looking around the room, she spots a bottle of medicine, which she recognises as an antipsychotic.


    She relaxes, putting her hands beside herself onto the bed.


    ¡°Solomon?¡± Ludwig asks apprehensively. She hasn¡¯t seen the wolf be so afraid in the previous five days, which admittedly is not a long while, but to see such fear in his eyes of all people¡­ ¡°Are you feeling well?¡±


    She isn¡¯t. She really isn¡¯t. Not mentally, nor physically, the things she learned weigh heavy on her mind.


    ¡°I guess.¡± She responds meekly. ¡°Better than earlier today anyway.¡± She adds, causing his ears to droop.


    ¡°Solomon¡­ You¡¯ve been out for two days.¡± Ludwig states.


    Solomon pauses for a moment before putting her hands over her face, a little reluctant, given what happened. Two days¡­ She was asleep for two days? The last thing she remembers is falling into that hole.


    ¡°Listen¡­ I¡¯m sorry, that was NOT my doing!¡± She proclaims.


    Ludwig gets the courage to step inside the room, curiously.


    ¡°Now that you¡¯re awake, you can tell us exactly what happened. And more importantly, how you did that.¡± His reluctant expression turns into a grin. ¡°Because that¡¯s exactly what we needed.¡± He adds, causing the cat to wince. ¡°Such destruction¡­ I rather it wasn¡¯t used inside my facility, but oh well. You, Solomon, you are what we¡¯ve been searching for! With your help, we can finally eradicate this cult, Bright Ones can feel safe, we can find them and recruit them or their power! Whatever the Lightborn have done, they shall pay for it! They shall bathe in your righteous acid!¡± Ludwig declares, his voice reaching a crescendo. Upon stopping, he hears the sound of quiet sobbing.


    ¡°Please stop¡­¡± Solomon says in no more than a whisper.


    ¡°Sir, if I may excuse myself¡­¡± Says the nurse in the medical room, clearly uncomfortable with the situation.


    ¡°Go ahead.¡± The wolf responds, the nurse then leaves hurriedly. Ludwig clears his throat.


    ¡°I apologise, I got a little¡­ Excited over our plan. Of course, you shall take all the time you need to recover. And then¡­¡±


    ¡°NO!¡± Solomon yells out. ¡°That¡­ That wasn¡¯t me¡­¡± She says through tears. ¡°Listen, it¡¯s hard to explain, I don¡¯t even know where to begin¡­¡± She sniffles and tries to collect herself. After a long exhale, she feels like she can properly talk. ¡°I read the book.¡±


    That gets Ludwig¡¯s full attention.


    ¡°So you figured out how it works. What did you read?¡± He asks with an inscrutable expression.


    ¡°The section on Acid Ones.¡± She states with another sniffle.


    Ludwig walks over to the bed with a soft chuckle.


    ¡°Solomon, you poor girl¡­¡± He says as he sits down at the side of the bed. ¡°Do you take me for a fool?¡±


    The cat shoots him a look of utter confusion.


    ¡°What do you¡­¡± She thinks back to the manner of which she read the page. Of course they could never read it, they¡¯ve never had an Acid One before. ¡°Right¡­ There was a torn page. A drop of acid fell there, that¡¯s when a page appeared.¡±


    Ludwig raises an eyebrow.


    ¡°Really? And what was written there that made you become so¡­ Enraged?¡±


    Solomon makes her right hand into a fist, then relaxes.


    The narrative has been stolen; if detected on Amazon, report the infringement.


    ¡°Listen¡­ Acid magic isn¡¯t created by nature. It was created by someone. And that someone is inside me, he took over my hands, he caused that.¡± She says matter-of-factly, the feeling coming from the creator changes, from regret to something Solomon can¡¯t quite put a finger on. Something similar to a slight sense of panic, like when someone is spotted or recognised.


    Ludwig looks back at her, he looks as if she just insulted his intelligence.


    ¡°Solomon¡­ Listen. You are important to us. You really are. But I don¡¯t believe a word that you¡¯re saying.¡±


    Solomon lunges forward, ignoring the pain in her chest and grabs the wolf¡¯s shoulder.


    ¡°I. Went. Through it! Do you have ANY idea¡­¡±


    Ludwig grabs her wrists and lays her back down.


    ¡°I will need serious proof for such claims. Tell me¡­ If this ¡°he¡± took over your hands then, why isn¡¯t he taking over now?¡±


    Solomon pauses. She herself really doesn¡¯t know that either. All she feels is this tingling.


    ¡°Just bring the book here. I¡¯ll show you proof. You have to believe me.¡± She says, hoping to have sounded genuine.


    ¡°Benedict, come in.¡± Ludwig says into his radio.


    ¡°Yes, sir?¡± The voice of Benedict responds.


    ¡°Solomon woke up. Bring the Ledger here.¡±


    Benedict gasps, but ultimately agrees with a ¡°Yes, sir.¡±


    Solomon doesn¡¯t blame the wolf for not believing her. What she told him doesn¡¯t sound very genuine, even by magical standards. Her hands tingle and itch, the creator really wants to get out¡­ But for reasons that are beyond her, he can¡¯t. Whatever caused it, Solomon hopes it stays that way.


    ¡°Lower your weapon for now, Andreas.¡± Ludwig says to the crow, who does so.


    ¡°Yes, sire.¡±


    ¡°I know how ridiculous that all sounds¡­¡± Solomon says, looking from Ludwig to her hands. ¡°But it¡¯s true. I¡¯m not sure I could even replicate that, to be honest¡­ I don¡¯t even know how many of them there are¡­¡±


    ¡°We don¡¯t know. Maybe thirty?¡± The wolf responds calmly, causing Solomon to look up, wide-eyed.


    ¡°You expect me to¡­ With acid?¡± She asks, her expression is that of consternation.


    ¡°That¡¯s a surefire way to eliminate their leader. That is what we want. If they have no leader, there is no cult. But of course, we won¡¯t miss the ones you take out as collateral damage.¡±


    ¡°How can he say that like it¡¯s nothing?!¡± Solomon rubs her temples.


    ¡°Where¡­ Are they even located?¡±


    Ludwig huffs in annoyance, shaking his head.


    ¡°That¡¯s the problem, you see.¡± He says, standing up from the bed. ¡°We don¡¯t know.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re joking, right?¡± The cat sits up, giving him an incredulous look.


    ¡°I¡¯m afraid not.¡± The wolf replies, slowly pacing around the room. ¡°They are terribly efficient at keeping their secrets, I¡¯ll give them that.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s not what I wanted to hear at all¡­¡± Solomon shakes her head, softly cackling.


    ¡°However, after you basically destroyed a large part of the warehouse, I had the whole info department mobilised.¡± Says Ludwig ¡°We are currently looking into one person in particular, who proves to be very suspicious, possibly having connections to the cult.¡±


    Suddenly, Benedict rushes in with the book. Just the sight of it sends chills up Solomon¡¯s spine.


    ¡°Right here, sir.¡± He then looks over to the cat with fear in his eyes. The sight saddens her a little.


    ¡°Good. Stay here until we¡¯re done.¡± Says Ludwig, apparently to the racoon¡¯s displeasure.


    The wolf brings the book over to Solomon.


    ¡°Alright then, show me that page and I¡¯ll believe you.¡± Says the wolf, looking at her expectantly.


    Solomon takes the book and flips through all the way to the torn page. She places her hand above it, Ludwig crosses his arms, waiting.


    She wasn¡¯t looking forward to using her power so soon after the incident, but if it makes the others believe her, so be it. The cat powers up her magic just enough for a drop of acid to fall onto the book, much to Benedict¡¯s surprise. Like last time, a green, spectral page appears in the book.


    His emotion, a sense of regret once again, subtle, but present. Ludwig, Andreas, and Benedict all look in awe as the page glows. The wolf snatches the book and powers up his magic to read it. Solomon can see his eyes dart from one end of the page to the other.


    ¡°What does it say, sire?¡± The crow inquires.


    Ludwig puts down the book and leans against the wall.


    ¡°So it¡¯s true¡­¡± Says the wolf.


    Solomon crosses her arms and frowns, as if to say ¡°I told you¡±. The other two each take a look, Ludwig does not stop them.


    ¡°This¡­ This is amazing!¡± The wolf suddenly exclaims. ¡°This redefines what we know about magic! Artificial magic!¡± He says, slightly shaking Benedict. ¡°Do you have any idea what that means?¡±


    ¡°No, sir?¡± The raccoon looks back in a mix of surprise and confusion.


    Ludwig laughs and lets go of him.


    ¡°We could make our own magic!¡±


    That statement causes Solomon to feel an intense anger beside her. ¡°He can understand us? Not just me?¡± The thought suddenly hits Solomon. ¡°This millenia old Mystic One understands what we say?¡± The thought makes her feel uneasy. For how long has he been listening?


    ¡°I don¡¯t think he likes the idea.¡± She states. The three others all turn to look at her.


    ¡°What do you mean?¡± Asks the wolf, giving her an anxious look.


    ¡°I feel whatever emotions he feels. I¡¯m not angry, but I feel that he is.¡± Ludwig chuckles, which turns into a look of concern.


    ¡°Why is he angry?¡± He eventually asks.


    ¡°I don¡¯t know. I can¡¯t exactly talk to him.¡± The tingle in her hands grows ever more uncomfortable. Now that she has a choice, she can¡¯t let him take over, the consequences of that could be disastrous.


    ¡°So, you¡¯re possessed by the original Acid One?¡± Says Benedict. ¡°Well that¡¯s¡­ Disturbing.¡±


    Ludwig walks over to the cat and leans next to her.


    ¡°Listen, Solomon. I know this wasn¡¯t in our deal¡­ But you have to let us look into this. If we can figure out how to make our own magic¡­¡±


    Solomon really doesn¡¯t like the implications of that, having regrets about sharing any of this information with them all of a sudden. A notion she shares with the creator.


    ¡°I¡¯ll consider it.¡± She responds. ¡°But I won¡¯t be going out there to do your dirty work after the cult. I just want peace¡­¡± She thinks about her friends. How would they react to this? What would they think if they found out that she¡¯s possessed? ¡°What would Lisa think¡­¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll have to make an announcement! This is the biggest finding in my time here!¡± Ludwig says, stepping from Benedict to Andreas, his tail wagging excitedly.


    Solomon really doesn¡¯t like the idea of an announcement, this is all too much for her. She then realises, everyone in the facility will know about the nature of her power if he does.


    ¡°STOP!¡± She yells. ¡°You can¡¯t talk about it yet! Some might grow¡­ Envious, you know? Also, people would look at me like I could do¡­ That any time. Because I won¡¯t, he can no longer take over me for some reason.¡± She says and looks down at her hands. They still tingle. She figures that he is upset, she just isn¡¯t sure why.


    ¡°You know, you raise a fair point.¡±  Ludwig says with a laugh. ¡°We¡¯ll stick to the plan for now.¡±


    ¡°Right!¡± Says Solomon, having remembered their conversation earlier. ¡°What is the name of that lead?¡±


    Ludwig snaps his fingers at her.


    ¡°Good thing you remembered. His name is Antonio Alvarez.¡±

 Chapter 14 - Company

    Solomon really wants to have misheard it, she really, really hopes that it¡¯s a different person than the one she has in mind.


    ¡°How do you know that?¡± She asks, trying her best not to show that she knows. ¡°It¡¯s one thing after the other these past days¡­¡±


    ¡°We found a letter signed with this name at first.¡± Says Ludwig. ¡°My men are looking into it now, they should get back to me about it soon.¡±


    Solomon feels the creator¡¯s anger become a sense of amusement. Maybe she should speak up about it¡­ But then again, she has enough regrets about doing such already.


    ¡°A Spanish bloodhound priest.¡± Ludwig goes on. ¡°It¡¯s always the people you least expect, eh?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not so sure about that.¡±


    ¡°Truly.¡± Solomon says with a sigh of exasperation.


    ¡°Benedict, take the book back to the warehouse and tell Vanessa that the Acid One¡¯s awake.¡± The raccoon nods and picks up the book. Rather than fear, he looks at the cat with trust. He then exits the room.


    ¡°Who¡¯s Vanessa?¡± Solomon raises an eyebrow.


    ¡°Head of the information department.¡± Ludwig replies with a grin, likely having a lot on his mind. ¡°If this turns out to be the one¡­ We¡¯ll be further in our plan than ever.¡± He gestures at Andreas to leave as well. With a salute, he walks out the room.


    Ludwig then turns to look at Solomon, clearly trying to look compassionate.


    ¡°Listen¡­ You¡¯ve only been here for a week, yet I found out so many interesting things about you. Why not stay with us? You could¡­¡±


    ¡°No.¡± Solomon cuts him off. ¡°I¡¯ll let you look into my magic, but that¡¯s the end of it. Once we¡¯re done, I want nothing to do with you.¡± She states adamantly, swearing that she can hear the wolf softly growl as she responds.


    ¡°But why? Isn¡¯t this exciting? One of a kind doesn¡¯t even come close to defining what your power is!¡±


    Solomon scoffs.


    ¡°That¡¯s the thing, you only care about my power.¡± Ludwig frowns at her response. ¡°You can¡¯t have my power, so this is the next best thing. I need you to understand, I¡¯m the person behind this power, vile and evil, and deceitful, apparently.¡± She looks down at her hands, then back at the wolf, who seems to be growing increasingly impatient. ¡°I want a normal life, Ludwig. I understand how important this is for you.¡± She raises her hands and shows off her markings. ¡°But I don¡¯t want to live in a place like this, I don¡¯t want to live a life like this. I agreed to help with the cult and now even more. That¡¯s the end of it. I¡¯ll give you that and no more.¡±


    Solomon knows the risks of having this conversation with such a short-tempered person, but it¡¯s a risk she has to take if she ever wants to live what is at least close to a normal life again.


    Ludwig growls, much more audibly this time, but stops by the end of her speech.


    ¡°I¡¯ll give you time to rethink your choice. We¡¯ll see about it.¡± Without another word, he walks out the door.


    Solomon feels a strange sensation of relief coming from the creator, like he¡¯s glad that the wolf left.


    ¡°Now what?¡± She says softly, inspecting her hands. The dark green spirals haven¡¯t changed one bit. ¡°He has no intention of letting me go, does he?¡±


    Solomon spends some time thinking about what the best course of action would even be. ¡°Why did any of this have to happen to me? Did I enrage a higher being somehow?¡± She can¡¯t think of a proper explanation to any of this. And now, a metal wolf wants to learn how to make his own magic. She¡¯s certain she is the only person in the world with such a problem. What could she do? Disappear on that mission of hers and live the rest of her life in hiding? That doesn¡¯t sound like a preferable alternative¡­ Yet.


    ¡°Pray for me, Father¡­¡±


    She lies there for what feels like hours, her hands even stopped tingling. She wishes that the pain in her chest was also gone. She is left alone with her thoughts¡­ Well, not quite alone. His feelings have shifted to just sadness and regret once again. Unlike last time when his feelings and emotions spread to her, Solomon can clearly separate their feelings. If she was looking at him from the outside and saw him be sad, she wouldn¡¯t believe him for even a second. But coming from inside, it feels much, much more different. ¡°It¡¯s easy for some to fake emotions on the outside¡­ But what about this?¡± She knows not what to think of this tonal change, but she feels like it¡¯s for the better. In fact, despite everything¡­ She wants to know more. She wants to know more about the creator, hear his side of the story, albeit with apprehension. Currently, she¡¯s the only one who could even possibly talk to him, as bad as an idea that that could be, but she wants to try, she wants to know¡­


    She holds out her hands and stares at the markings.


    ¡°What do you make of all this?¡± She asks, a little nervous. She senses him go from sad to confused. ¡°Yes, I¡¯m talking to you. Acid One. Creator.¡± The confused feeling lingers. ¡°Let me rephrase¡­ How do you feel about all this? The System? Ludwig?¡±After her question, she feels a burning sense of hatred from him. ¡°You and me both.¡± She states. His anger once again turns into amusement.


    ¡°Did I just find a way to communicate with him? Or is this just a sick coincidence?¡± She thinks about things she could ask the creator. She still can¡¯t help but wonder how he could possibly understand English, however.


    ¡°How do you feel about what happened after I¡­¡± She pauses for a second. ¡°After we read the book?¡± She corrects herself, certain that he read what she read as well. ¡°He must have seen through my eyes. Can he still do that? He can certainly hear, that¡¯s for sure. But how does he understand me?¡±


    To her surprise, he seems to feel a deep sense of regret about it. ¡°Interesting.¡±


    ¡°How do you feel about me?¡± She asks, somehow not having thought of anything better. He ¡°responds¡± with a feeling of warm comfort. Solomon herself isn¡¯t sure what to think of that.


    ¡°Alright then, Acid One¡­¡± She pauses for a moment, remembering how much she herself hated being called that. Feeling all these different emotions of his herself, she finds it hard to believe that he¡¯s just a monster like he was described in the book. She knows that she isn¡¯t evil, who¡¯s to say that he really was? Even though she saw the destruction he caused, the things he could do¡­ It just doesn¡¯t feel right one bit to call a person such an epithet.


    ¡°Despite everything, it doesn¡¯t feel right to call you that. Do you have a name?¡± She feels a sense of mild anger followed by indifference. ¡°I¡¯ll take that as a no.¡±


    ¡°Can I give you a name?¡± She realises how weird it sounds to ask a creature that intelligent such a question, but his response¡­ Solomon knows this feeling. It¡¯s the same feeling she used to have whenever she asked for an allowance, except much stronger. He is pleading.


    She feels terribly confused by that. His pleading grows even stronger. ¡°Does he feel what I feel?¡±


    ¡°Alright. I¡¯ll give you a name.¡± She says and looks at the ceiling as she thinks, more on just how bizarre her current situation is, all things considered. She never was good at coming up with names, but she can at least try.


    ¡°What about¡­ Cecil?¡± She suggests. She is met with a feeling not of anger, but disappointment. ¡°Don¡¯t like that one either to be honest.¡± She remarks. ¡°Maybe something more old-fashioned¡­¡± She contemplates a little more than she likely should on something like this. She frankly has no idea what names people used to be called thousands of years ago.


    If you discover this narrative on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen. Please report the violation.


    ¡°Okay, how about¡­¡± She takes another second to think. ¡°Genesis?¡± It¡¯s not a name, not a proper one, but she feels like it would fit him. ¡°Since you were the first one, the creator. It means creation, so I thought¡­¡± She feels a sense of satisfaction coming from him. ¡°Alright then¡­ Genesis.¡± It may not be the sanest thing to get so comfortable with him so soon, but it just might keep her sane a little longer. She doesn¡¯t want to spend the rest of her life possessed by someone evil, she wants to believe, as unlikely as it is, that the book lied about him.


    ¡°How do you feel about the rest of them? Shaquia, and the others?¡± She senses indifference from Genesis. Now her curiosity is properly piqued.


    ¡°If you remember my friends¡­ What about them?¡± She herself feels comfort whenever she thinks about them, like now. ¡°What about¡­ Lisa?¡± Her own feelings grow warmer, but Genesis, he¡¯s completely indifferent.


    And Lisa¡­ Having spent a few days away from her friends, she realises something: that she misses the wolf the most, in a completely different way. She misses having her by her side on most days. She wants to be with her again, to see that often much too smug face of hers¡­


    ¡°Let¡¯s change the topic, okay?¡± She suggests, feeling her slight embarrassment and his confusion. ¡°Such emotions¡­ I mean, he was a person at some point.¡±


    She thinks back to what she read in the book once again. Vile, evil, and deceitful, just like its creator¡­ She can¡¯t help having doubts about her intuition. Just to be safe, she will stay suspicious of Genesis until she can know for sure. She can¡¯t grow too comfortable with him so fast.


    She then feels her hands tingle, specifically her right hand.


    ¡°I do NOT trust you enough for that.¡± The tingle fades with a sense of disappointment.


    Another nurse only comes back into the room until what feels like an irresponsibly long time to leave someone who created a fifty-metre radius hole alone. Solomon at least got to think a little more during this time, even growing ever more curious about reading the rest of that Ledger. It may be partially responsible for this, but all that information on magic¡­ It would be a shame not to have a look sometime. She feels like she should limit her curiosity for the time being, however, given the circumstances.


    She tells the nurse about the pain in her chest, which he begins to work on right after, shining a soothing, warm light onto the left side of her ribcage. He looks awfully uneasy about treating her now that she¡¯s awake. ¡°Maybe that¡¯s why he put it off for so long.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not going to hurt you.¡± She states. She can tell he¡¯s afraid despite the mask over his mouth. It doesn¡¯t seem to ease his mind too much. The cat feels like she really shouldn¡¯t share the information about Genesis with any more people.


    ¡°I assume you¡¯ve seen what happened at the warehouse.¡± She tries to start small-talk. The nurse nods, looking concerned. ¡°Yeah¡­ Sorry about that.¡± She doesn¡¯t feel she can make up for the damage she caused with Genesis, but at least she¡¯s trying.


    ¡°Do you have any idea how expensive it¡¯ll be to fix that?¡± The nurse says in response, his voice shaking at the end, likely regretting saying a response in the first place.


    ¡°I can imagine¡­¡± She says with a soft chuckle, which seems to unnerve the nurse even more. ¡°Hey, it was a nice demonstration for Ludwig, right?¡± She feels a certain sense of delight from Genesis.


    ¡°A demonstration?¡± Says the nurse, more annoyed than afraid. ¡°You call that a demonstration? I call it senseless destruction! Why does Ludwig choose to¡­¡± He bites his tongue.


    ¡°Ah, forget it.¡± Solomon rolls her eyes. ¡°Just fix me up, s¡¯il vous pla?t. The sooner I¡¯m done with Ludwig¡¯s plan, the better.¡±


    It takes just about all day and switching nurses four times, but eventually, Solomon¡¯s chest pain is finally gone. She feels dreadfully hungry, thirsty, and tired after the experience, the IV may have kept her alive, but it doesn¡¯t exactly count as a substitute. The last nurse tells her to go find Ludwig at her earliest convenience, on said wolf¡¯s orders.


    Solomon visits the cafeteria, people are giving her various looks as she casually sits down to eat. Fear, hate, and even envy are all present. The staring eventually stops, but most glance at her every now and then. She isn¡¯t sure how much they know, but she can safely guess that everyone knows about the incident in the warehouse. She hopes that Ludwig hasn¡¯t announced the nature of her magic to them.


    She doesn¡¯t feel any strong emotion from Genesis as the people look. Finishing her meal, she leaves. Two days of sleeping¡­ That would make this her eighth day at The System. She wonders how much longer she must stay there. Given that they apparently don¡¯t even know where the cult is exactly, she feels that it¡¯ll be much longer than anyone would prefer.


    She also decides that three days without showering is about three days more than she¡¯d normally like. It¡¯s always been natural to her, and that¡¯s a habit she isn¡¯t breaking. She grabs clothes to change into from her room and heads to one of the bathrooms, no one seems particularly interested in talking to her on the way. When she enters, she gets a thought that makes her feel thoroughly uncomfortable. Just how much can Genesis see? If he really sees through her eyes¡­ Now she would really prefer to know.


    She feels no emotion from him as she gets ready to take a shower. Midway through, she takes a quick glance at a mirror. She then feels a mix of surprise and embarrassment from him, but a lack of interest. She promptly looks away with a blush. At the very least, it confirms that he can see just fine after the incident. ¡°Great. Just great.¡±


    After she is done, she looks at her hands as she exits.


    ¡°If you can close your eyes, please do when I shower.¡± She isn¡¯t quite sure if the awkward feeling coming from him is because of the situation as a whole or because he can¡¯t. It certainly doesn¡¯t encourage Solomon, especially since skeletons don¡¯t normally have eyelids.


    Feeling considerably less relaxed than she usually does after a shower, gets ready to go meet Ludwig. She really isn¡¯t looking forward to it after their last conversation.


    When it¡¯s finally convenient for her, she makes her way to his office and knocks on the door. She hears that he is engaged in a conversation inside.


    ¡°Come in.¡± He says as the room falls silent. She opens the door to see the wolf and a lioness with an eyepatch over her left eye. She looks like the one in the painting, except she didn¡¯t have an eyepatch there. Rather than a suit, she wears a dress, allowing the orange markings on her right arm to be seen. They are unlike what Solomon has seen before, much more intense, covering more of her arm.


    ¡°Sheila, I¡¯m afraid our meeting concludes here. Thank you for the information, but this discussion I¡¯ll have¡­¡± He is cut off by the lioness, Solomon can see a pronounced vein on the side of his forehead appear.


    ¡°You must be the new member.¡± She says in a tone that Solomon finds less than comforting. ¡°The one whose so-called friends pulled that little stunt at Lion¡¯s Den?¡± She adds.


    Solomon thinks back to what she overheard the wolf say. ¡°She must have arrived here when I was out.¡±


    ¡°She¡¯s the one, yes.¡± Says Ludwig, trying to remain calm. ¡°And she¡¯s essential to our operations.¡±


    Sheila keeps scowling at Solomon.


    ¡°Right. And whose bright idea was it to take her in?¡± She asks, turning to face Ludwig.


    ¡°You¡¯re looking at him right now.¡± He responds with a grin.


    ¡°That¡¯s just wonderful. And you chose to keep her after what she did too?¡±


    Solomon looks at Ludwig, hoping that he won¡¯t just give out her secret.


    ¡°Yes, I did. That power is exactly what I was looking for! Why would I cast it aside?¡±


    Sheila shakes her head.


    ¡°This place is going to fall because of decisions like that.¡±


    Solomon feels a sense of burning hatred from Genesis. She looks at her hands and smiles, which results in him feeling mildly confused. She steps forward and puts her hands on Sheila¡¯s shoulders, causing her to slightly jump. She quickly turns around to face the cat with fear in her eyes.


    ¡°She could have killed you right then.¡± The wolf states. ¡°She¡¯s now a part of us, Sheila. Whether or not you like it. Lion¡¯s Den is but a small price to pay for her power.¡±


    Both felines look at Ludwig in disbelief.


    ¡°You. Are. In. Sane.¡± The lioness remarks.


    ¡°I¡¯m not exactly happy about such a loss, but let¡¯s just say that she will make up for it greatly.¡±


    Even Solomon has a hard time believing what the wolf is saying. ¡°I understand that this is a great discovery, but that¡¯s just not even correct.¡±


    ¡°You want to be alone with her? Fine. Go ahead.¡± Sheila announces, followed by her storming out of the room. Solomon doesn¡¯t feel too good about her remark, but she¡¯s getting more and more used to it.


    ¡°Please excuse her temper.¡± Says the wolf. ¡°That¡¯s rich coming from you.¡±


    Solomon sits down on her side of the desk.


    ¡°I heard you were discharged from the medical room over an hour ago. What were you doing earlier?¡± The wolf asks with a dry expression.


    ¡°Went to eat, shower, do the laundry, things like that.¡± The cat replies casually, causing Ludwig to raise an eyebrow.


    ¡°You did all of that before coming here?¡± He questions.


    ¡°I have my priorities.¡± Says Solomon, crossing her arms.


    Ludwig grunts, snapping out of whatever train of thought he was having.


    ¡°Anyway¡­ My agents found something I¡¯m sure you will find most intriguing.¡± A smile stretches across his face. ¡°This bloodhound clergyman, he is indeed connected to the Lighborn.¡±


    Given the things Durazo told her about the priest, Solomon isn¡¯t too surprised.


    ¡°His expression when asked about the cult told them everything. He folded quickly, he¡¯ll lead us to where they are located! Can you believe that?¡±


    Solomon can¡¯t help but have her suspicions, all of this seems awfully convenient.


    ¡°You¡¯ll be going to Spain tomorrow.¡±

 Chapter 15 - Embark

    Solomon¡¯s eyes open wide, even Genesis feels a sense of shock from what she can tell.


    ¡°What?¡± She manages to say.


    ¡°I¡¯ve seen what you can do.¡± Ludwig says with a smirk. ¡°I merely need you to do it again.¡±


    ¡°I told you, that wasn¡¯t me!¡± Solomon shakes her head. ¡°It was Ge¡­ Him.¡± She holds up her hands to show the wolf her markings.


    ¡°I don¡¯t care how you do it, or who does it, I need them gone.¡± Says Ludwig. ¡°We have a deal, remember?¡±


    ¡°Sure, we do.¡±


    ¡°I need you not to walk back on our deal then. I¡¯ll do it, but remember, I could do it to this building as well.¡± She responds.


    Rather than angry, Ludwig looks amused.


    ¡°There won¡¯t be a need for that. I¡¯m a man of my word, after all.¡±


    The hatred inside Genesis grows more intense.


    ¡°How am I even going to get to Spain in the first place?¡± She inquires.


    ¡°Private planes, Solomon.¡± Ludwig replies with a toothy smile as he pulls out a photo from a desk drawer. It depicts a plane. ¡°I will grant you half a dozen guards for protection. You may also  bring a higher-up for help. Who will it be?¡±


    Solomon rubs her temples, not taking the news well. she didn¡¯t think she¡¯d need to do it so soon.


    ¡°Okay, I need to consult with him first, hold on.¡± Says Solomon.


    ¡°Who is ¡°him¡±?¡± Asks the wolf.


    Solomon frowns and holds up her hands, their backs facing Ludwig. He nods in understanding.


    ¡°Right. You can do that?¡± He asks with an inquisitive look.


    Solomon turns to the side and looks at her hands.


    ¡°Alright. I¡¯ll say the name, you show me how you feel about the person. I¡¯ll likely need you. I¡¯ll need to know for sure that you can help.¡± She feels a sense of calm from Genesis. ¡°I¡¯ll take that as a yes.¡±


    Ludwig eyes her, confused, or perhaps concerned.


    Solomon wants to make sure that whoever she brings will survive. Or at least won¡¯t be missed too much if they do die. ¡°Let¡¯s see, who do we like the least¡­¡±


    ¡°Shaquia.¡± She feels no strong sensation from, other than mild anger, which she finds strange. ¡°Benedict.¡± Irritation. ¡°Andreas.¡± Intrigue. ¡°Stefano.¡± Regret. She then glances at the wolf. ¡°Ludwig.¡± Intense hatred. The silver wolf himself seems quite unamused from her suggestion.


    She considers one last option. ¡°Sheila.¡± The hatred remains, but it feels different. Like it isn¡¯t the person he hates, but something about her. Solomon guesses that he won¡¯t mind if the lioness happens to go missing in action.


    ¡°Alright then, Genesis.¡± She says with a smirk.


    ¡°Genesis?¡± Ludwig asks in bewilderment.


    Solomon turns to face him, a sense of disappointment coming from the original Acid One.


    ¡°What? I gave him a name. We both think it¡¯s better if he does have a name.¡± She feels a sense of satisfaction from Genesis.


    Ludwig shrugs, trying to dismiss it as best as he can.


    ¡°I¡¯m not the one going through what you¡¯re going through¡­ But let¡¯s just say that I¡¯d handle things differently. Anyway, here¡¯s the plan¡­¡±


    Ludwig¡¯s plan is rather simple. They go to Spain, meet Antonio and the agents currently making sure that he doesn¡¯t go and inform the cult of their plan, he leads them there, the rest of them do the dirty work.


    He urges Solomon to stand up.


    ¡°Meet me tomorrow in the main building. And do inform Sheila that you intend to bring her.¡±


    Solomon nods in response.


    ¡°Do not disappoint me, but if you must, do not die.¡± He says with a cold expression.


    ¡°I¡¯ll try.¡± Says the cat with a sense of nervousness from Genesis.


    She leaves the wolf¡¯s office, her hands start to tingle.


    ¡°No.¡± The tingling stops.


    Solomon is less than happy with the wolf¡¯s plan being realised so soon, but there¡¯s nothing she can do about it now. She considers this whole situation a case of astronomical misfortune, the sheer odds of Antonio being connected to the cult¡­


    She looks around the main building and spots Sheila sitting on a cushioned chair, pouting. She walks over to her and sits down on another, empty chair close to her.


    ¡°So¡­¡± She starts, trying her best to speak in a friendly tone.


    ¡°Go away.¡± Sheila says in response.


    ¡°But I have something very important to talk to you about!¡± Solomon exclaims, which seems to get the one-eyed lioness¡¯ attention.


    ¡°What is it?¡± She asks with a scowl.


    ¡°I¡¯m going to Spain tomorrow to take out a cult.¡± She informs Sheila.


    ¡°Wow, great. And why should I care?¡± The lioness no longer seems interested.


    ¡°Because I¡¯m taking you with me.¡± Says the cat, perfectly calmly.


    ¡°You have to be joking.¡± Says Sheila, raising her voice.


    ¡°Ludwig¡¯s orders.¡± Solomon lies. ¡°Can¡¯t argue with him, now can we?¡± She feels that Genesis is delighted with what she said. Sheila growls and makes her hands into fists.


    ¡°I swear¡­¡± She glances at Solomon with a look of disdain. ¡°Of all the people who work here¡­ Why did it have to be you?¡±


    ¡°You might want to share what happened at Lion¡¯s Den.¡± Solomon shrugs.


    After a few moments, Sheila relaxes and points to her eyepatch.


    ¡°This.¡± That is all she says regarding the topic.


    ¡°Can¡¯t you just have that fixed by Bright Ones?¡± Asks the cat.


    ¡°That¡¯s what I would have done tomorrow. Looks like that¡¯s off the table now.¡± She crosses her arms and leans back in the chair.


    ¡°How¡¯d that happen in the first place?¡± Solomon inquires.


    ¡°You¡¯re asking an awful lot of questions, you know?¡± Sheila scoffs. ¡°If it wasn¡¯t for your colleagues, we¡¯d still have one of our best fronts operational.¡±


    Solomon feels a little sympathy for the lioness, which Genesis doesn¡¯t seem to approve of. She has to wonder why.


    ¡°I¡¯ll go talk to the old man. Tomorrow, we¡¯ll team up for this. And only for this. Got it?¡± Sheila asks, sounding much more professional.


    Solomon nods.


    ¡°Good. now go, say goodbye or whatever.¡± Sheila stands up and walks into Ludwig¡¯s office.


    Solomon isn¡¯t exactly excited about the prospect as a whole. However, she is finally free to roam the facility, it would be foolish not to take advantage of that.


    She goes to find a pen and paper, then goes to her room and begins writing a letter, detailing her plan. She feels her hands tingle, which she ignores. She adds an important note at the end of it, but scribbles it out. ¡°No¡­ Not like this. It should be sweet, not bitter.¡± Surely, the concierge would monitor her letters specifically. For the time being, she leaves it in the nightstand drawer. It¡¯s not the most responsible thing to do, but no one has come in to search her room thus far.


    She hears a knock at her door, then goes to open it. Standing in her doorway is Shaquia, looking as if she¡¯s happy to see her mostly well.


    ¡°Oh hey Shaquia.¡± She greets her.


    ¡°So you finally woke up, huh? And now you¡¯re going to Spain?¡± The lynx asks abruptly, giving but a nod in response to her greeting. ¡°Rumours sure spread quickly here.¡±


    ¡°Yeah. Going with Sheila.¡± She states, rubbing the back of her head. ¡°Wish me luck, I guess.¡± She shrugs.


    ¡°I was sure you were going to take me in case we found a lead.¡± Shaquia says with a sigh of relief. ¡°Thanks for not doing that. I¡¯m not too keen on action if I can help it.¡±


    Solomon sympathises with her, understanding the lynx¡¯s not wanting to use her power for destruction.


    ¡°I¡¯ll keep that in mind for future missions.¡± She says with a smile.


    ¡°Even though I have no intention of going on future missions. I¡¯ll figure it out somehow¡­¡±


    ¡°Good luck out there.¡± The lynx chuckles in response. ¡°Come back alive.¡± Having said that, she turns to leave.


    ¡°You better be in one piece when I¡¯m back!¡± Solomon says as she steps out of the room and waves to Shaquia.


    ¡°No promises!¡± She walks to the lifts and goes to the sixth floor. If there is someone in The System Solomon might miss, it¡¯s definitely the snow lynx. Though the more she thinks about it, the more she feels like the bigger problem with the org is Ludwig. ¡°I can only imagine what it would be like without him.¡±


    After that, she goes back inside her room and prepares to go to sleep. She has a long day ahead of her, she¡¯ll need to be well rested.


    At night, Solomon has the best sleep she¡¯s had in years. No figure chasing or looking at her, for the first time in a long while, she has regular dreams. No desert, no barren landscape. In the morning, she feels like an entirely different person. ¡°Maybe that handshake wasn¡¯t such a bad idea.¡±


    She gets ready for the journey ahead and goes down to the main hall. Ludwig is already there.


    ¡°Solomon!¡± He says with a jovial smile, which Solomon finds all too unnatural on him. She waves without saying anything.


    ¡°You¡¯re early, the agents haven¡¯t even arrived yet.¡± He states.


    The cat really wishes to just be done with this.


    ¡°Wonderful.¡± She says without much enthusiasm in her voice. She looks to the entrance of the warehouse with a slight shudder, though she can¡¯t help being curious. ¡°Mind if I have a look in there while I wait?¡±


    The wolf laughs.


    ¡°As long as you don¡¯t repeat what happened.¡± Solomon doesn¡¯t find his remark particularly funny. Neither does Genesis, apparently.


    ¡°Alright.¡± She responds with a slight frown. She¡¯s beginning to find the wolf¡¯s overconfidence in her rather annoying, but somewhat justified.


    She walks over to the warehouse, where a different guard reluctantly lets her in. Even from the entrance, she can see the edge of the construction zone. She walks closer to it and sees that the once roughly twenty-metre deep hole is now only around ten metres deep. ¡°They work fast here.¡± It feels uncomfortable for the both of them to look at the destruction they caused, Solomon concludes that Genesis isn¡¯t too excited to be here. She turns to leave when her right hand begins to tingle.


    ¡°Oh come on¡­¡± She exclaims, looking at her hand. ¡°How come he isn¡¯t just flat out taking over in the first place? What could he possibly want?¡±


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    Solomon looks around to check if there¡¯s anyone nearby. Not within earshot if she whispers. She brings her hand closer to her mouth.


    ¡°Listen¡­ If you cause any trouble¡­¡± She realises that there isn¡¯t much she could do if that were to happen. ¡°Just don¡¯t make me regret this.¡± She says and finally relents¡­


    Genesis takes over her right hand, bending and stretching each of her fingers, as if getting a good feel for them. He sticks out her index finger and points slightly up at an intact shelf. Solomon follows with her gaze and spots the edge of something red hanging off of the shelf.


    ¡°I see it.¡± She says and regains control of her hand with surprising ease.


    She walks over to where he was pointing her hand, climbs onto a box and takes the red object off the shelf after another quick look around.


    The red object is none other than her phone case, with her phone inside. Elated, she looks at her hand.


    ¡°How¡¯d you even see that?¡± She senses that Genesis feels flattered. She then gives her hand a questioning look. ¡°How come you¡¯re helping me?¡± The sensation is replaced with a feeling of slight disappointment. ¡°Alright, alright. I guess I¡¯ll trust you a little more with that from now on. Until you pull something like that again.¡± She glances towards the giant hole in the warehouse towards the end. Genesis feels satisfied with her answer.


    Solomon presses the power button and miraculously, it turns on. ¡°At least the battery works as advertised.¡± Her happiness doesn¡¯t last long however. She can just barely manage to read the pop-ups of several missed calls and unread messages, and most importantly, that the battery is at one percent.


    She unlocks it in the hopes that she can send even just one message to someone, but it soon goes dark and doesn¡¯t turn on again. Solomon hides her anger and pockets the phone.


    ¡°Now that I think about it¡­¡± She says to Genesis, looking at her hand. ¡°How¡¯d you even recognise it in the first place?¡± She really wishes there was a way for him to respond in a way that isn¡¯t just emotions.


    She pauses for just a moment.


    ¡°There is a way!¡± She says, hoping she has enough time to get another pen and paper. She also hopes that he can write with someone else¡¯s hand. With that, she remembers that she is yet to have the letter delivered.


    ¡°Solomon!¡± Says the voice of Ludwig coming from the entrance. ¡°The rest of the team arrived. Come.¡±


    ¡°The letter¡­ How am I going to get it to them?¡±


    Solomon feels more than a little annoyed at that, a feeling she shares with Genesis. ¡°I¡¯ll try to have you tell me your story, just you wait.¡±


    She goes out into the main hall where the six agents and Sheila wait for her. She thinks that the lioness¡¯ scowl is just a little less hostile today.


    Ludwig gathers them around and explains the plan as they leave the building. For the first time in over a week, Solomon feels sunlight on her body¡­ Or at least she would if  it wasn¡¯t so overcast.


    Sheila doesn¡¯t look too excited, but Solomon guesses that this time, it isn¡¯t about her.


    They go to a nearby private facility dedicated entirely for planes to take off and land. ¡°Who even finances these guys?¡±


    Solomon and the rest of the team then board the plane she saw in that photo. With one last toothy smile and a rather ominous wave, at least in Solomon¡¯s opinion, the plane takes off.


    ¡°Not that I have anything against her, but would you let us in on why you brought her?¡± Adelar asks while in a car with his employees and Thalia.


    ¡°Absolutely not.¡± Lisa says in response, sitting at the driver¡¯s seat. ¡°Proper good that we brought her though. Trust me on that.¡±


    ¡°Are you sure you can tell if she¡¯s there?¡± Yaroslav asks in a concerned tone.


    ¡°I can tell if she even was there.¡± The wolf responds, taking a sharp turn, which makes Thalia yelp in surprise.


    ¡°Picking up on her scent shouldn¡¯t be too hard. I¡¯ve gotten to know it well by now.¡± Says the wolf, parking the car in a lot not far from the destination she put into the GPS. They get out of the vehicle and look towards the massive, imposing building. ¡°Von Leue Finances¡± reads in large letters above what is presumably the entrance.


    ¡°This is the place then.¡± Says Durazo.


    ¡°It¡¯s where her location was last updated.¡± Says Lisa, checking her phone. She looks at Adelar and can tell that he doesn¡¯t like it one bit.


    ¡°If she¡¯s really here¡­ We better be quick.¡± The eagle states, glaring at the building.


    ¡°Stay here for the time being. I¡¯ll tell ya if things ain¡¯t lookin¡¯ so good.¡± Lisa says to Thalia, who is still in the car, with a smirk. ¡°Then you come in and save our arses. Sounds good, yeah?¡±


    Thalia nods with a grin. Lisa then walks over to the rest of the group.


    ¡°How is she supposed to save us alone?¡± Durazo questions with a sceptical look.


    ¡°She could, trust me, mate.¡± The wolf reassures him.


    Led by Adelar, the four approach the building. Getting closer, the sheer size of it really sets in. Multiple segments and few windows, whatever they keep in there, they surely want it inside, a secret from the outside world.


    They walk through the front door, now at the concierge, people in fancy suits all around, discussing various financial matters.


    Lisa sniffs the air and whispers to Adelar. ¡°It¡¯s a bit faint, but I can tell she was here at some point. Can¡¯t have spent too long here though.¡±


    The eagle looks towards the concierge, who takes a good look at them and says something into a radio. He leads them farther in, a snow lynx blocks their entrance to the main part of the building.


    ¡°I don¡¯t believe you¡¯re authorised to come in here.¡± She states coldly, her voice sounds bored.


    ¡°I believe we are.¡± Adelar responds, the lynx looks downright offended at hearing that. ¡°Tell your boss that Johannes Adelar wants to speak with him.¡± He says with a grim look.


    The lynx rolls her eyes and closes the door. Before anyone in his entourage could say something, Adelar holds up a finger, signalling for them to stay quiet. The others glance at each other and him, not sure what to expect. Not a minute later, the lynx opens the door and gestured to them to come in. Adelar leads them in with a satisfied grin, which turns to a frown  soon after. If the building looked impressive from the outside, then it certainly looks so from the inside.


    The lynx closes the door and follows them from a good distance behind.


    ¡°I can confirm.¡± Lisa whispers to the eagle. ¡°She was here. Must have spent the whole week in this place.¡±


    Adelar¡¯s eyes are drawn towards the person standing in the middle of the hall, none other than the silver wolf, Ludwig, whom Adelar eyes with disdain.


    ¡°You have a lot of nerve waltzing in here.¡± Ludwig says to the eagle with a similarly hateful look.


    ¡°You have a lot of nerve kidnapping my employee.¡± Adelar retorts.


    Yaroslav bares his teeth at the silver wolf, but he doesn¡¯t seem to care.


    ¡°Now that¡¯s quite the accusation.¡± He states, curling his fingers into fists with a low growl. ¡°We could settle this right here and now, Johannes. If only you stopped being a¡­¡± He lifts one finger up to his chin, as if deep in thought. ¡°Coward.¡± He shrugs with a smirk.


    Lisa can all but see the anger in Adelar. They can¡¯t get too confrontational, not now.


    ¡°Say, guv¡¯nor.¡± She says, casually stepping forward, much to the surprise of both parties. Her expression is much more agreeable than that of the others. ¡°Between you and me, one wolf to another¡­¡± She opens her arms slightly, cane in her right hand. ¡°Our friend¡¯s last location happens to be this building. Ol¡¯ birdie over here¡­¡± She points her cane at Adelar. ¡°Claims that you took ¡®er.¡±


    The silver wolf looks at her with furrowed brows.


    ¡°Now, if you just let us have a li¡¯l look around¡­¡± She continues. ¡°You know, to make sure you didn¡¯t, then we could leave like we were never even here!¡±


    The silver wolf laughs, which turns into more of a holler by the end.


    ¡°You know what?¡± He puts a hand on her shoulder. ¡°Go ahead.¡± He then looks at Adelar, who looks as if he is questioning whose side Lisa is on.


    ¡°Father, Yaro, come with me. In case anyone gets any ideas.¡± She gestures over to the bear and the canine while giving a side-eye look to a nearby employee. The two follow her to the lifts.


    The silver wolf keeps laughing, which abruptly stops. He walks closer to Adelar. If looks could kill, both of them would be dead.


    ¡°I have to admit, you trained them well.¡± Says the silver wolf. ¡°Not the ragtag team of bandits I expected. Then again, such a team could never hope to take down one of my fronts like that.¡±


    ¡°I wouldn¡¯t have guessed that you would go so far as to be a part of an organisation like this, let alone the head of it¡­ Ludwig von Leue.¡± Adelar shoots a cold glance at Ludwig. The silver wolf merely smiles a wide smirk in response.


    ¡°We were supposed to be partners.¡± Adelar continues, looking around the building. ¡°Must have cost a pretty penny.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯d call it an investment.¡± Ludwig chuckles in response. ¡°For me, it paid off. For you¡­¡± He smiles a toothy grin at the eagle.


    ¡°Quite the building you had built.¡± Adelar ignores the remark and continues looking around, deliberately avoiding looking at Ludwig. ¡°I would call it remarkable if it was run by anyone other than you.¡±


    ¡°Lion¡¯s Den was my best front.¡± Ludwig interjects. ¡°Besides this, of course. Eleven dead, including a good friend of mine¡­¡± His smile turns to a scowl. ¡°I always thought you were a coward, but coming in here with the perpetrators after pulling such a stunt¡­¡±


    Likely feeling the tensions rising, the lynx walks over to them, just in case. Adelar can almost feel the magical energy radiate from her.


    ¡°And you started dealing in magic? How could you stoop so low?¡± Adelar scoffs, which is met with a chuckle from Ludwig.


    ¡°Come now, Johannes.¡± The silver wolf shakes his head. ¡°After all these years, you still don¡¯t know me nearly as well as you think.¡± His body then begins to shine with a metallic sheen all over, Adelar tries to hide his astonishment. ¡°It¡¯s a gift, meant to be used.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m surprised he didn¡¯t sell you to the highest bidder yet.¡± Adelar says to the lynx, who doesn¡¯t say anything at his remark.


    Ludwig erupts in laughter.


    ¡°My friend¡­¡± He pauses to step even closer, rubbing his forehead. ¡°You don¡¯t seriously think I would do that, now would you?¡±


    ¡°I think you could do much worse.¡± Adelar retorts, which seems to irritate Ludwig.


    ¡°Money can¡¯t buy magic.¡± Ludwig reaches out to jovially grab the eagle¡¯s shoulder, only for him to quickly step aside. The lynx raises an arm in Adelar¡¯s direction, Ludwig gestures for her to stop, which she does.


    ¡°Money shouldn¡¯t be able to buy magic.¡± Ludwig goes on, albeit with a frown. ¡°The things people would use it for¡­ I founded this organisation to keep Mystic Ones out of the public eye.¡± His expression turns downright morose. ¡°Who¡¯s to say they don¡¯t already know? That they aren¡¯t already monetising it?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m glad there are still things we can agree on, after all this time.¡± Adelar says calmly, rolling up his sleeves. The silver wolf doesn¡¯t look impressed.


    ¡°And that¡¯s despite all the problems you¡¯ve caused me over the years, inadvertently or not.¡± Ludwig looks Adelar in the eye, then relaxes. ¡°Lucky for you, money can fix all of them.¡± He smiles widely and puts his hands behind his back.


    ¡°What did you do to my employee?¡± Adelar asks coldly.


    Ludwig practically jumps at the eagle, stopping right in front of him, his silver eyes looking at Adelar with a burning fury. The eagle¡¯s markings glow a brilliant orange, practically aflame.


    ¡°Here¡¯s your chance, Johannes, show me that you¡¯re willing to take risks.¡± Ludwig says through growls.


    They stare each other down as some of the workers stop to look. Ones that don¡¯t have such morbid curiosity go into various rooms to hide from the possibility of an imminent fight.


    ¡°Right, mates!¡± Lisa shouts, breaking the tension. She gets the attention of just about everyone as she exits a lift with Yaroslav and Durazo. Ludwig and Adelar power down their magic as they turn to look at her, the tapping of her cane on the floor echoing throughout the hall.


    ¡°Can confirm, she ain¡¯t here.¡± She states when she and her colleagues get a little closer to them.


    ¡°W-WHAT?!¡± Adelar exclaims as Ludwig laughs heartily.


    ¡°Wrong address mates, my bad.¡± Lisa says apologetically and turns to face Ludwig. ¡°Apologies for botherin¡¯ ya, good sir!¡± She tips her hat. ¡°We¡¯re leavin¡¯.¡±


    ¡°But what about the¡­¡± Adelar looks at her in disbelief, rolling down his sleeves.


    ¡°I said we¡¯re leavin¡¯.¡± Lisa puts the handle of her cane at his neck and starts dragging him to the door they used to enter. After a short struggle, Adelar breaks free and looks at Yaroslav. ¡°You heard her.¡± Is all the bear tells him.


    He then glances at Ludwig, who is giving him a mocking grin.


    ¡°Is it wise to let them leave, sir?¡± The lynx asks.


    ¡°Let them. This is much better.¡± He says, looking thoroughly entertained. ¡°So much better. So much more amusing.¡±


    Durazo puts a hand on Adelar¡¯s shoulder, his eyes pleading to leave. He relents and with a grunt of anger as he turns to leave, feeling thoroughly humiliated.


    Outside the building, he berates Lisa.


    ¡°What was that, Lisa?! Do you have any idea¡­¡± The wolf hardly pays attention to him, in fact, she shushes him with one finger.


    ¡°I¡¯d keep quiet if I were you.¡± Says Yaroslav. ¡°Solomon really isn¡¯t in there.¡±


    Adelar somehow finds it easier to believe him than Lisa.


    ¡°What he said.¡± Says Durazo.


    ¡°Hey Thali.¡± The wolf speaks into her phone. ¡°You¡¯ll be driving¡¯, hope ya don¡¯t mind.¡± A response is heard from the panther, but Adelar doesn¡¯t hear it.


    At the car, Adelar gets in next to Thalia, the other three sit in the back.


    ¡°That didn¡¯t take too long.¡± Thalia remarks as the eagle shakes his head.


    ¡°You¡¯re telling me¡­¡± The eagle yells out. ¡°That we came all the way here for nothing?¡± He turns around to face Lisa.


    ¡°Fuck no.¡± Says the wolf. ¡°Solomon was here, alright? But she ain¡¯t now.¡± She puts a hand in her right pocket.


    ¡°How can you be so sure?¡± Adelar questions, intrigued.


    Lisa pulls out a folded piece of paper from her pocket.


    ¡°¡®Ere''s how.¡± She unfolds the paper, the other two in the back take a peek. ¡°This is her handwriting. It was in a drawer in a room where she must have spent most of her time. Scent¡¯s real fresh too, she must have written it recently.¡±


    Thalia turns as well, all five of them have various looks of glee.


    ¡°Lisa, I¡¯m sorry for¡­¡± Adelar begins to say, his expression turning regretful.


    ¡°S¡¯alright, I was bein¡¯ a bit daft back there.¡± Says the wolf. ¡°Now shut up, let me read it to you lot as well.¡±


    Thalia starts the car and begins driving away, so as to not raise any suspicions.


    ¡°To anyone who may find this letter,¡± Lisa starts to read out loud. ¡°I, Roxanne Solomon, have been sent to eradicate a cult in Spain by Ludwig von Leue.¡±


    ¡°A cult?¡± Durazo cuts in, which Lisa doesn¡¯t take kindly to.


    ¡°I may not be the Lord, but you should still listen, Father.¡± She responds, turning to give him an annoyed look. ¡°No offence.¡±


    Durazo apologises.


    ¡°Good lad.¡± The wolf then continues reading. ¡°I don¡¯t trust my chances. They believe that my acid powers and some other people are enough to do that. I intend to fake my death and escape, although I don¡¯t know how yet. There are five people in Britain who I would trust with my life, they know who they are. If this letter were to arrive at its intended location, one of you, then I beg of you, come and find me.¡± In the rear view mirror, Thalia sees a tear roll down Lisa¡¯s cheek. ¡°Despite my situation, I don¡¯t want the secrets of magic to leak. I will be led to the base of operations of the Lightborn cult by a man named Antonio Alvarez, who is involved with them. I currently don¡¯t know where it is exactly. I have no intention of going back to that organisation, which goes by the name ¡°The System¡±. If you are reading this and I am dead, please notify my family.¡± Lisa stops reading. The car falls silent. ¡°There¡¯s one more sentence, but it¡¯s scribbled out so much, I¡¯ve not a clue what it says.¡± She adds and puts the letter away.


    No one says anything for a few, long moments.


    ¡°Antonio¡­¡± Durazo says in a sullen tone. ¡°Why, Antonio? You were always misguided, but this¡­¡± He leans against the car door and sighs deeply.


    ¡°That bastard¡­¡± Says Adelar, clenching his fist. ¡°Is that all she¡¯s worth to you?!¡±


    Thalia can see that Lisa is struggling to hold back her emotions as she checks her phone. Yaroslav stays silent and puts a hand on Lisa''s shoulder.


    ¡°Step on it, Thali.¡± Says the wolf, the panther looks back at her in the rear view mirror.


    ¡°Where to?¡± She asks.


    ¡°To the airport, of course. We¡¯re gettin¡¯ Solomon back, mates.¡±

 Chapter 16 - Advent

    Solomon never felt like she was special in all her life. Just a simple cat who wants nothing more than an ordinary life, which is in stark contrast to her current life. On a plane to Spain to take out a cult with a lioness and some agents, all on the wishes of an organisation she is essentially forced to be a part of.


    She and Sheila are sitting at the right side of the plane, the lioness sitting by the window. She doesn¡¯t speak to Sheila, who says nothing as well, giving her some time to think. She tries to think of a way to fake her death, figuring that her body would dissolve if she did die, if what she¡¯s seen so far is anything to go off of. Maybe find enough liquid and tell Genesis to help her with it? Then she could move to a different country and just be forgotten. That would keep everyone safe, hopefully. A believable way for her death, however¡­ An unfortunate circumstance is all she needs. Accidents happen after all, don¡¯t they?


    Following that note, she wonders what might happen to other Mystic Ones upon their death, like Dark Ones and Bright Ones. A rather morbid thought that she doesn¡¯t entertain for long.


    What¡¯s important is for her to get out of there, preferably with no witnesses. Then she really would have no choice but to let the ancient skeleton inside her handle things. She has only had to use her power on someone directly once, and she would rather keep it that way. ¡°Although¡­ If he does it for me¡­¡±


    ¡°So why did you pick me?¡± Sheila asks after about half an hour on the plane, startling Solomon slightly.


    ¡°It was on Ludwig¡¯s orders.¡± The cat keeps up her lie.


    ¡°You can drop the act.¡± Says the lioness in an uncharacteristically calm manner. ¡°He told me that you picked me. But why? You just met me back there. Why not Benedict or one of the other guys who would go with your power more?¡±


    Solomon pauses, trying to come up with a lie that she hopes Sheila would believe better. It all came to her on a whim and the suggestion of an ageless being whose panic she currently feels.


    ¡°Your fire. It looks so intense¡­ I felt like it would help me out more than wind, steam, or water.¡± She manages to say. Having said it, she does wonder why her fire covers so much more of her arm than what she¡¯s seen before.


    ¡°Oh, wait ¡®til you see it in action.¡± The lioness responds with a slight smile and a proud look. ¡°I don¡¯t like the old man, but he did promote me. I¡¯m twice the Blazing One that most are.¡± She holds out her arm, allowing it to be seen by Solomon.


    ¡°I was told that it¡¯s bad for the psyche if the same type is¡­¡± She takes a moment to think. ¡°What was the phrase? Spliced?¡±


    Sheila nods.


    ¡°That¡¯s true. But having two has no side effects that we could find. No significant ones, anyway.¡± She looks out the window, admiring the view as she talks. ¡°And you¡­ Acid One.¡± Solomon shudders at the sound of that. ¡°How does it feel?¡±


    ¡°What do you mean?¡± She looks back at her, perplexed.


    ¡°You¡¯re the Acid One. Rumoured to be just a legend¡­ How does it feel to have all that power?¡± Sheila finally turns to face her.


    Solomon looks down at her hands and senses Genesis feeling a mix of pride and regret. She doesn¡¯t answer for a few, long moments. She has yet to feel its power, but she has certainly felt the consequences of having it. Experiencing the power through someone else performing it can¡¯t be the same.


    ¡°It¡¯s not as exhilarating as you think.¡± She states after a short while. ¡°It caused me more trouble than good so far.¡±


    ¡°Really?¡± Sheila says with a frown. ¡±Do you have any idea what certain people would do for that power? It is¡­ Monstrous.¡±


    ¡°Maybe under someone else¡¯s control, it is.¡±


    Solomon sighs, the lioness doesn¡¯t push the subject.


    ¡°Why do you call Ludwig ¡°old man¡± anyway?¡± She asks after a few minutes.


    Sheila chuckles softly.


    ¡°He¡¯s certainly older than he looks. He¡¯s 87.¡± She informs Solomon, who in turn looks at her incredulously.


    ¡°87? How?¡±


    ¡°He¡¯s True Metal.¡± The lioness explains. ¡°Slower ageing just comes with it, apparently. And he wonders why we think his methods are outdated¡­¡±


    ¡°Why are you sharing that with me so casually?!¡± She questions.


    ¡°I don¡¯t think there¡¯s a reason to hide it from you. I think a new leader for us has been due for a while now anyway.¡± She says with a sly smile.


    Solomon takes a few minutes to take in that information. 87? That¡¯s just absurd. But it does explain his occasional¡­ No, terribly common grumpy old man behaviour. She wonders who could even be a new leader for them.


    She takes one long glance at the lioness. Despite everything she said, she still agreed to go on a mission with someone she apparently dislikes.


    ¡°If you don¡¯t mind me asking¡­¡± Says Solomon. ¡°What happened at Lion¡¯s Den?¡± Sheila looks at her with her one good eye. In it, Solomon sees anger.


    ¡°Your former colleagues killed eleven people.¡± She says softly and coldly. ¡°There¡¯s nothing more to it. Why are you so interested in that?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s been so long since I¡¯ve heard from them. Did they make it?¡± She asks in a concerned tone.


    Sheila chuckles. Not the response Solomon expected at all.


    ¡°Listen, if you have to know, I¡¯ll tell you.¡± She begins to say and takes a deep breath. ¡°We were keeping up our front until the old priest guy mentioned a small investigation company. We looked into it, Bird¡¯s Eye came up. We saw that Johannes Adelar works there and that¡¯s why Ludwig sent the others over there.¡±


    ¡°He knows Adelar?¡± Solomon cuts in.


    ¡°You asked about Lion¡¯s Den, that¡¯s all I¡¯m willing to tell.¡±


    The cat nods in acceptance. Sheila grins before continuing.


    ¡°Later, he left the room to answer his phone. He called that¡­¡± Sheila pauses for a brief moment to think. ¡°Honestly just strange wolf out as well. That¡¯s when all hell broke loose. Someone informed them that you were missing.¡±


    ¡°Always so quick to act¡­¡± Solomon sighs softly.


    Sheila rolls her eye.


    ¡°Anyway¡­ They accused the whole org of kidnapping you. They were just there to look around, so that took us by surprise as well.¡± She¡¯s beginning to look more annoyed than upset. ¡°Then that idiot¡­ Harper tried to use his magic on them. A nasty combination, dark with fire. Basically, fire that doesn¡¯t damage anything but still hurts. Unfortunately for him, one of yours is a Bright One and since he was part Dark One... He didn¡¯t last long against that light.¡± The lioness¡¯ expression turns sombre.


    ¡°The guards were called, the staff tried to fight them, but they had no chance against an Electric and a Frost One. A water dispenser got knocked over during the scuffle, dousing the floor at the entrance.¡± She holds out her orange-covered arm, looking at it intently. She then holds a hand over her eyepatch.


    ¡°I was about to get her¡­ I really was. Then she pulled out a god-damn sword and slashed me across the eye.¡±


    Solomon winces at the thought of that.


    ¡°When the guards arrived, they stood at the doorway. In the same puddle the wolf did.¡± She pauses and scoffs. ¡°She didn¡¯t even hesitate¡­ I got out while I still could. My flames are powerful, but a Frost One can still put them out quite easily.¡±


    Solomon feels rather shocked to hear the story in its entirety. She can¡¯t imagine what she would have done if she was there. ¡°Dark Ones can¡¯t be healed by Bright Ones then¡­¡±


    ¡°Why were only three invited?¡± She asks after taking a moment to let it all sink in.


    ¡°There are four people stationed in the main room. The front is an investment company, so it¡¯s some psychological thing about being outnumbered or whatever.¡±


    ¡°Right.¡± Solomon nods. ¡°That checks out.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯d hate being unable to feel the soothing warmth of Bright Ones.¡± Sheila remarks. ¡°Light magic is extremely important, which is why we can¡¯t let some cult take more of it.¡±


    The two do not converse for the rest of the flight. Solomon expected the plane to land in a larger city, instead they land close to a small settlement by an expansive forest. ¡°Must be another private landing zone. Just how much money does Ludwig have?¡±


    ¡°The clergyman told us that this is as close as he¡¯ll bring us. We¡¯ll see about that.¡± Says one of the agents as they escort Sheila and Solomon, four of them are equipped with radios. They are brought to a shack in the woods where two owl agents are keeping Antonio safe. The old reverend is sitting in a wooden chair, looking rather nervous, wearing a cassock.


    ¡°Alright, your ¡°holiness¡±. Show us where they are.¡± Sheila demands.


    Antonio shakes his head and hands vigorously, clearly not liking the idea.


    ¡°No! I can¡¯t! He¡­ HE will kill me if I do that!¡± He exclaims, panicked.


    Solomon would feel bad for him if it wasn¡¯t for the things Durazo told her.


    ¡°Tsk tsk.¡± Says the lioness. ¡°Your chances are better with us. We have two Mystic Ones and eight agents with weapons.¡±


    Antonio whimpers.


    ¡°You don¡¯t understand¡­ He is far, far, FAR, beyond what you can imagine!¡± He says, grasping at his face.


    Sheila powers up her magic, her arm bursting into bright orange flames, causing Antonio to yelp.


    ¡°I¡¯m here right now. I could kill you here for sure or give you a chance to escape when we¡¯re there.¡±


    The clergyman pants as he looks at the flames. Solomon senses overwhelming fear coming from Genesis. ¡°I¡¯m not so sure splicing even once is good for the mind.¡±


    ¡°Fine, fine¡­ But don¡¯t tell me I didn¡¯t warn you.¡± Antonio says as he falls to his knees. The two agents who were stationed with him help him stand up.


    ¡°It doesn¡¯t matter what ¡°he¡± is, we have ¡°the¡± Acid One!¡± Sheila glances at Solomon, rather agreeable.


    Antonio leads them deeper and deeper into the woods. Some agents and Sheila alike try to question Antonio further on the Lightborn, but he refuses to answer. Sheila even threatens to have Solomon burn a hole in his body if he refuses, much to the cat¡¯s displeasure, Antonio, however, still won¡¯t say a word. ¡°What could they possibly do to him that¡¯s worse than death by acid?¡± Sheila doesn¡¯t follow through with the plan. She may be annoyed by the lack of information he provides, but he is too important for the mission. Every time, he pleads with them to turn back.


    Solomon feels like they are just walking in circles, wondering how far into the woods could whatever they are looking for be. Antonio¡¯s age doesn¡¯t help either, the journey certainly feels significantly slower because of him.


    ¡°How much longer, Antonio?¡± Sheila asks after what feels like hours of walking. Although likely less than half the distance travelled as a result of having to bring Antonio.


    ¡°Halfway¡­ There¡­¡± Says the bloodhound, out of breath.


    Solomon attempts to question him without threats and the like, but it doesn¡¯t work either. The clergyman refuses to say anything of value. However, she does get one of her questions answered in a way. That question being about how many cultists are there. ¡°More than you.¡± is all she gets as an answer.


    Eventually, Solomon spots something in the distance. Antonio also notices it and shudders, pointing in the direction.


    ¡°There¡­¡±


    Two agents rush ahead to check out what it could be.


    ¡°It¡¯s a castle.¡± One of them says through the radio. ¡°No one¡¯s outside.¡±


    The rest of them approach, Antonio stops in his tracks, shivering.


    ¡°This is as close as I can come¡­¡± He says in a weak voice.


    ¡°That¡¯s too bad, you¡¯re coming with us in there, in case we need some leverage.¡± Sheila responds and drags him closer. He resists at first, but stops at the sight of her other, flaming arm.


    They walk close enough to see the entire stone structure in the middle of a clearing, close to a river. It is massive, and could easily house hundreds of people. Solomon feels a pit in her stomach. In spite of the castle¡¯s sheer size, she hopes that the cult is small, so that the mission will go easily, and she doesn¡¯t have to use her power on too many people.


    ¡°So what now?¡± Solomon asks, which earns her a questioning look from Sheila.


    ¡°Ludwig wants it destroyed, but it may just be a bit too big for you. So we¡¯re going in.¡± She states as if it¡¯s the easiest thing in the world.


    ¡°Please¡­ You can still turn back.¡± Says Antonio. Sheila slaps him in response.


    Solomon looks at the castle. ¡°From one big building to another¡­¡± There is a bastion at each of its four corners with many more small towers at different elevations. ¡°I¡¯m a cat, I can climb pretty well. Not to mention¡­¡±


    ¡°I may just have figured out how we¡¯ll get in.¡±


    With the sun at its highest point, the eleven of them approach the castle. No guards, no alarms, no lookouts. Solomon finds that highly suspicious.


    They stop by the eastern wall, Solomon sees Sheila typing something on her phone. She then looks up at one of the bastions. ¡°This is such a bad idea¡­¡± She places her hands on the wall and powers up her magic, burning holes into the stone one higher than the previous, forming a rudimentary ladder.


    ¡°My oh my. Good thinking, Solomon.¡± Sheila remarks as the cat climbs up the wall using the holes she burns, powering down to get a grip every time.


    One small step at a time, she climbs up far enough to look into one of the bastions through the window. No one seems to be in the room it leads to, so she signals for the others to follow. Sheila comes up first after saying something Solomon can¡¯t quite hear to the others.


    ¡°This could be an opportunity¡­¡± If she were to ¡°fall down¡± at some point, she could burn a vaguely Solomon-sized hole into the grass. Maybe that could trick them into thinking she died.


    She looks around the room. It is remarkably empty and clean, all things considered, nothing but a desk and an odd lantern in there. There isn¡¯t even a pen or a piece of paper. The lantern¡­ Its light looks off. Too bright, too white. There are two doors that lead to the room, one being a trapdoor. She stands on the latter to make sure no one catches her by surprise from that direction. She may be light and slim, but she figures she could weigh it down enough.


    Soon, Sheila and three agents make it up to the top of the bastion, a hyena, a lizard, and a rabbit. The two owls stay down, presumably to keep Antonio from leaving, three more await Sheila¡¯s orders with them.


    ¡°Excellent.¡± The lioness says, immediately approaching the door. She looks through the keyhole and opens it. She peeks through and gestures to them to follow. Solomon exits the bastion last, finding herself in a long hallway, doors all over on the right side, all open. Sheila and the agents peer into the rooms, all containing bunk beds, but otherwise empty. ¡°Maybe it¡¯s as empty as I hoped.¡±


    Stolen from its rightful author, this tale is not meant to be on Amazon; report any sightings.


    ¡°The coast is clear so far. Three more should come in, keep your radios on at all times.¡± Sheila says into her radio.


    One door leads to a catwalk that looks over what Solomon guesses is a place where people would eat, empty as well. Every room, every corridor, they all look spotless, much cleaner than an old castle should ever be. She can¡¯t help but notice the lanterns as well. They all look so weird¡­ Too bright.


    After walking down a set of stairs, the path branches out in three directions. Sheila orders the agents to look around. Two canines and a rabbit go through a wooden door, a feline and the lizard go down a corridor. Solomon, Sheila, and the hyena go in yet another direction. Solomon cannot fathom just how clean the entire castle has been so far. Not a speck of dust, not even on windowsills.


    ¡°We seem to be in some sort of dungeon, sir.¡± Says a voice through the radio.


    ¡°Elaborate?¡± Sheila responds after checking a room.


    ¡°Prison cells¡­¡± Says the agent and pauses. ¡°Most are empty.¡± He says in a shaky voice.


    ¡°Pull yourself together, Will. Give me a full report.¡± Sheila responds in an irritated tone.


    ¡°As I said, mostly em-.¡± He holds back a shriek. ¡°Sir¡­ That¡¯s Carter. I¡¯m sure of it.¡±


    ¡°You can¡¯t be serious!¡± Says the lioness, Solomon can see that she is rather upset. ¡°Carter? This is what happened to him?¡± She looks at the cat, who is clearly a bit confused. ¡°Carter was a Bright One, he went missing two months ago.¡± She explains.


    ¡°He isn¡¯t responding, sir.¡± Says Will. ¡°He¡¯s¡­ Not in the best of conditions.¡±


    ¡°Get him to talk, one way or another!¡± Sheila orders.


    They continue exploring, going through the labyrinthian castle, hearing the attempts to get Carter to talk. Every single room, desk, decoration, frame, everything is clean. Solomon now finds that unnerving. Castles aren¡¯t so clean by themselves, even if this one looks to have some more modern elements. One room leads into a bathroom, the only place that doesn¡¯t have those lanterns so far. It¡¯s as if it was taken from a regular building and put there. Spotless, of course.


    ¡°Found them, sir.¡± Says another, extremely concerned voice through the radio.


    ¡°How many, Calhoun?¡± Sheila asks, calmly.


    ¡°So many¡­ Must be at least a hundred!¡± He replies, voice becoming softer. ¡°And none of them are moving. They¡¯re all looking at¡­¡± He stops talking completely.


    ¡°Calhoun?¡± Sheila asks, but there is no response. ¡°Calhoun? Angelica?¡± No voice is heard from the radio for a few, long moments. Solomon can tell that Sheila and the other agent with them are starting to get rather anxious, much like her. ¡°A hundred? A hundred?!¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s so beautiful¡­¡± Calhoun finally says. Sheila attempts to get him to answer along with Will, but he doesn¡¯t respond to either.


    ¡°Who are you?¡± A new voice is heard from the radio.


    ¡°Carter! It¡¯s me, Simon!¡± Says one of the agents. ¡°We could take¡­¡± He stops abruptly.


    ¡°Simon?¡± Sheila speaks into the radio. ¡°What is it?¡±


    ¡°What have they done to you?!¡± Simon¡¯s voice is heard.


    ¡°I have seen¡­ Perfection.¡± Says Carter, wheezing. ¡°I¡¯ve seen the light. I¡¯ve no more need for them. Come, revel in perfection.¡± He says in a serene voice.


    Just then, the lanterns suddenly become much dimmer. Solomon isn¡¯t the only one to notice that. Sheila and the agent all look around, they can all tell that the lanterns changed.


    ¡°Sir!¡± Calhoun screams out, which is followed by a cacophony of voices erupting from the radio. Screams and shouts are heard, followed by a crack in the end. The radio is broken, but the voices don¡¯t stop, they are only quieter, echoing through the walls of the castle.


    Solomon looks at Sheila, wide-eyed.


    ¡°That¡¯s it.¡± Sheila exclaims. ¡°We¡¯re getting out of here. The old man can handle this himself if he wants them gone so bad.¡±


    ¡°Soon you will join us.¡± Carter states, Sheila is getting visibly upset with his blathering.


    ¡°Sir¡­¡± Says Will, frightened. ¡°Jackie came with us, right?¡± He asks.


    ¡°Yes, she did.¡± Sheila answers, trying to keep her composure.


    ¡°She¡¯s not here.¡± Will¡¯s voice trembles as the other agent tries to reassure Carter that they will rescue him.


    ¡°What do you mean?¡± Sheila demands.


    Before the agent could answer, a groan is heard through the radio coming from the agent who was talking to Carter.


    ¡°No!¡± Will shouts, followed by two gunshots. ¡°Where did you come fro-'''' His voice is cut off by a grunt of pain, then a thump.


    ¡°Do not resist the light.¡± Carter says before the radio is turned off.


    ¡°This is bad¡­¡± Sheila says to a deeply afraid Solomon. She could burn a hole through the wall¡­ It looks too thick to melt before they are found.


    They run through the halls, turning corner after corner, trying to follow the way they came from until they see the door leading to the bastion, the sound of the cult looking for them growing ever louder. ¡°This can¡¯t be happening! How was I ever supposed to take care of all of them?¡±


    The door then swings open, all kinds of species in white robes wielding daggers and blunt objects run out. Sheila holds out her arm, a long tongue of flame erupts from it, holding back the cultists from advancing. The agent fires off a couple shots, hitting a canine in the shoulder and a feline in the stomach. As a result of that, he has daggers thrown at him. One hits him in the leg, another in the chest. He kneels down on the floor and coughs up blood.


    Solomon¡¯s heart races, Genesis tries to distract her with a sense of calm, but it doesn¡¯t work. ¡°I can¡¯t replicate what he did!¡±


    ¡°We must retreat!¡± Says Sheila, backing away, the cultists advancing just out of the reach of her flame. There isn¡¯t a trace of fear in their eyes.


    Solomon goes to help the agent, but a candelabra hits him in the head. He collapses onto the floor.


    Sheila backs away, her flames keeping the cultists at bay for now. She ducks just in time to avoid a dagger that¡¯s thrown at her.


    ¡°We have to do it then¡­¡± Says Solomon, staying behind Sheila as they back away from the crowd of cultists. She holds out her hands, acid drips from it. At the very least, she can try, more for her own safety than on Ludwig¡¯s request. She is about to let Genesis do whatever destruction he can manage when she notices someone and her heart all but stops.


    ¡°What are you waiting for?¡± Sheila asks, but the cat does not respond.


    A figure emerges from the mass of people. A figure Solomon hasn¡¯t seen for quite a while, but could never forget despite her efforts. She puts a hand on her chest over her racing heart, gasping for air as she looks at him. It¡¯s the white bat with crimson markings. Unlike the cultists, he is wearing a white shirt and trousers. He displays his vein-like markings proudly, along with the small, pristine, membranous wings attached to the forearms, typical of bats. Useless for actual flight, however. He touches the wounds on the canine and the feline, his markings light up, and he pulls out a bit of blood from them. The wounds close, leaving slight scars as the bat shapes the blood into a solid blade.


    ¡°Solomon?¡± Sheila asks, briefly turning to look at her. ¡°Do something!¡±


    The bat breaks into a sprint, his red eyes staring into Solomon¡¯s very soul. She¡¯s overcome with terror, sheer, primal fear as images of her memories with the bat flood her mind. ¡°I need to be reasonable, just let Genesis do it, he can fix it, he will¡­¡±


    Unable to bring herself to do anything, she abandons Sheila and runs down the stairs, turning in different directions than before, her heart thumping harder and harder in her chest. She hears the sound of flames which is soon extinguished by the rabble of people. ¡°I¡¯m¡­ So sorry, Sheila.¡±


    She sees cultists run around a corner from the right, she turns left, barely escaping a swipe of claws. The sound of the rabble grows softer as she eventually finds herself in a massive hall, figuring that this is where they all must have come from.


    Solomon feels like she travelled back in time a few centuries. Lanterns of bright, white light illuminate the hall. The interior sure is impressive, paintings, suits of armour, fancy chandeliers hanging from the ceiling, a similar white light coming from them. A sizable, wooden double door stands closed, she figures it must be the entrance. She is standing on some sort of a wide, stone podium, elevated by only a few steps.


    Something else catches her attention, however. Sat upon a white, marble throne, a fox, completely white, save for his pale pink nose and soles, wearing a white robe similar to the cultists. It hangs open on him loosely, his shoulders not covered, a long loincloth over his front. His body is slim, tall, lanky, looking almost fragile. His right elbow is on an armrest, supporting his head with a bored expression. His eyes, they seem to be glowing white, looking in her direction, unmoving, not saying anything.


    ¡°You are not WORTHY to be in HIS presence!¡± The voice of the bat says from behind Solomon. She quickly turns and steps backwards. The bat is making a mad dash towards her with a red blade in his hand, markings glowing. There¡¯s no way she can open that door by herself in time, running won¡¯t do her any good with this many cultists in the castle either. She has to fight him to have a chance at escaping.


    Solomon powers up her magic, acid drips from her hands. She takes a defensive stance, hoping for this to be over soon. Upon seeing that, the bat stops in his tracks and smirks.


    ¡°So we meet for the third time.¡± He says and pulls on the blade, which gets longer as a result. ¡°We always seem to meet in such unfortunate situations¡­ Don¡¯t we?¡± He lunges forward and thrusts with the blade, now much longer than it was. It pierces Solomon¡¯s left arm. With a yelp, she grasps the blade with her other arms, causing it to dissolve partially. He pulls it back, the tip falling out from her arm, hitting the floor with a splatter. Her wound bleeds profusely, practically pouring out. ¡°It was just a little stab, why is it bleeding so much?¡±


    ¡°Yes! Bleed! Bleed for our Lord!¡± He touches the burned tip of the blade and fashions it into a sharp edge.


    Solomon feels dismay from Genesis as her hands tingle, she looks down at her markings, panicked.


    ¡°I need your help¡­¡± She says directly to her hands.


    The bat pauses with a confused look, then glances over at the fox, who shrugs as a response. The bat then shakes his head and lunges forward on again, slashing Solomon in the stomach. With a short cry from the sharp pain, she recoils and grasps at her wound. Genesis is practically begging her to let him do something. ¡°I have to¡­ He has to.¡±


    Finally, she gives in and lets Genesis take over her hands. He reaches out with her right hand, palm facing the ceiling. Acid collects in her hand quickly, and to her surprise, starts rising up. The bat takes a few steps back from her, the fox looking curiously at what¡¯s about to unfold.


    The acid rises higher and higher, a tendril forming into the shape of a spiral coming from her hand. She watches in awe at what he makes her do.


    ¡°What in the¡­¡± Says the bat, gasping in realisation. The spiral then shoots towards him, keeping its properties as it¡¯s still connected to Solomon¡¯s hand. It hits him in the torso, which results in him falling to the ground, screaming, drowning out the sound of sizzling flesh.


    Solomon takes control of her hand and powers down her magic, terrified at what Genesis can make her do. The bat lies on the floor face down, reaching towards Solomon one last time before his body goes limp.


    Solomon falls to her knees, having lost a lot of blood. ¡°Even if I had no choice, this power¡­ It¡¯s so terrifyingly cruel.¡± She will have so many questions to Genesis once all of this is over¡­ And if she survives. She takes a little solace in the fact that it technically wasn¡¯t her that did this. But at the same time¡­ This was it? This is all the person she was so afraid of is? ¡°I guess he really is just a person after all¡­¡±


    Clap. Clap. Clap. Solomon looks at the fox, now standing. He¡¯s even taller than she thought, she guesses he must be over two metres in height. He is clapping slowly, looking rather impressed.


    ¡°Bravo!¡± He says in a voice that can only be described as sublime and majestic. He walks over to the bat as he claps. ¡°You put on quite the spectacular performance.¡± He reaches down and touches the bat. White light envelops him and after a few seconds, he quickly stands up and goes to a wall, looking at Solomon in terror. Where his body should be no more than a melted mess, it is pristine, as if her acid never came into contact with him in the first place.


    The fox stands up and walks over to Solomon, who now notices that she is no longer bleeding. At least not to that extent. He towers over her as she looks up at him.


    ¡°Wh-who are you?¡± Solomon asks, heaving, not daring to use her magic on him. If he could undo the damage she and Genesis did to the bat, he could surely do the same with himself.


    ¡°I am the God which people need.¡± The fox says matter-of-factly with a warm smile, which is contrasted by his glowing eyes. No iris, no pupil can be seen, they are all white. He crouches down to her level and takes her hand in his. Genesis practically screams at her to try to let him end this, but she figures it to be too risky. She notices that the rumbling of voices throughout the castle stopped.


    The fox traces a finger along Solomon¡¯s spiral marking.


    ¡°Fascinating.¡± He says and gently grips her hand, the same white light washes over her body. The feeling is unlike anything she¡¯s ever experienced, if Durazo¡¯s light is soothing, this light is downright divine, the very definition of euphoria. After a few seconds, she sees that her wounds are healed. ¡°This would have taken Father at least two hours! How is this possible?¡±


    ¡°Why?¡± The bat yells out. ¡°Why did you do that, Your Radiance?¡±


    The fox¡¯s smile turns to a slight frown as he turns his head to look at the bat.


    ¡°Do not. Question me.¡± He then turns back to Solomon, who is now in tears. ¡°What are they going to do to me?¡±


    ¡°Why did you come here?¡± The fox questions. Solomon is still trying to take in what she¡¯s seen today. Why did she come here? ¡°Because a madman thought that I could slaughter all these people because of a book and a legend. I have to survive, whatever it takes.¡±


    She prostrates herself before the fox, weeping.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry!¡± She pleads. ¡°I never wanted this¡­ I apologise for trespassing on your sacred territory! Please¡­ Please spare me, Radiant One!¡± She manages to say through tears.


    She feels the fox touch her chin. She looks up to see an, all things considered, friendly smile on his face.


    ¡°I could forgive such transgressions.¡± He says, gesturing to her to stand up, which she does.


    ¡°Luxor!¡± Says the bat. ¡°Did you not see what she-¡±


    ¡°Haemon.¡± The fox cuts off the bat without turning to face him. ¡°Tell me, did I request your advice?¡±


    ¡°No, Your Radiance¡­¡± He responds, fearfully. Solomon is rather taken aback by the whole conversation. She hoped never to see that bat again, but she may have just found someone much worse. ¡°Haemon and Luxor¡­ Putting a name to the person makes it a little better. But not too much.¡±


    ¡°Then why did you give your advice anyway?¡± Says the fox. Even though he¡¯s kneeling, he is as tall as Solomon standing.


    ¡°I apologise!¡± Says Haemon. ¡°I didn¡¯t mean to insult you, Your Luminosity!¡±


    Luxor shakes his head.


    ¡°Next time, do not question my judgement.¡± The fox¡¯s smile returns as he looks the cat in the eye. ¡°As I was about to say before I was RUDELY interrupted¡­¡± Solomon is startled by the sudden raising of his voice. ¡°I could forgive you. It takes power to beat my right-hand man so easily. We could find a use for you.¡± He states, holding her hands.


    ¡°Out of the pan, into the fire¡­¡± But what choice does she have? She can¡¯t just go back to Ludwig. Not after such a tremendous failure, which is really more his fault for being so overconfident, but she can¡¯t do that. ¡°Maybe I could hide here for the time being¡­¡±


    ¡°Oh, merciful Luxor! I am most grateful for your forgiveness!¡± She says, wiping a tear from her cheek. She¡¯s never been a good liar, but it seems enough for the fox to believe her.


    Luxor stands up.


    ¡°Follow me.¡± He commands and shoots a glare at the bat, which turns to a smile. ¡°I will not hold this against you, my faithful believer.¡±


    Haemon¡¯s look of terror fades slightly as he nods.


    The double door at the other side of the hall swings open, the remaining two owl agents drag in Antonio, holding a gun to his head.


    ¡°Hand over the cat!¡± Says one of them. ¡°Or we¡¯ll kill him right here and now!¡±


    Luxor eyes the agents with a bored expression. ¡°Go ahead.¡± He states calmly, causing Antonio to yelp.


    The two agents throw the clergyman to the side and aim at Luxor. Five shots are fired, two hit him in the chest as Solomon backs away from their target. The white fox falls to the floor, motionless.


    ¡°Luxor!¡± Cries the bat, drawing blood from his palm. He seemingly pulls out a long, crimson spear from the wound.


    The agents aim at Haemon, Solomon stands aside to avoid getting shot by accident.


    To her and the agents¡¯ surprise, the fox then puts up a palm in the bat¡¯s direction, signalling for him to stop.


    His wounds glow with a white light, the bullets are pushed out of his body and the holes close. He sits up, a patronising frown in his expression.


    ¡°I have to commend the effort. But you are-¡± He begins to say, Antonio covers his ears as the agents shoot at the fox until their guns emit but a click. Luxor recoils from the shots, but stays sitting upright. The holes glow as they close, the bullets falling to the ground with soft clangs that sound louder than the gunshots in the silence that follows. He stands up, what was a slight frown is now a look of severe disappointment.


    ¡°Okay. Now I¡¯m mad.¡± He stretches out his right arm, pointing at them with his index and middle finger spread apart. A thin beam of radiant, white light shoots out from each of the two fingers, surrounding the agents. Unlike the light he used to heal, these beams almost hurt to look at. Scorch marks are visible on the stone wall where the light touches it.


    Without another word, the fox then closes his fingers.


    The agents try to duck in an attempt to avoid the beams, but their efforts prove futile. The light slices through their flesh, beheading them on the spot.


    Solomon is increasingly grateful for trusting her instinct not to attack him. She feels a mix of panic and regret from Genesis, who is likely realising that if she listened to him, their situation would be much worse. Her mind races as she notices something on the floor: those symbols¡­ They are the same as the ones back in The System facility where they tried to take her power.


    Antonio rushes to Luxor.


    ¡°O, Radiant One!¡± He shouts as he bows down before him. ¡°You saved me from those savages! I am so-¡±


    ¡°You betrayed me, Antonio.¡± Says the fox, Haemon now standing beside him.


    ¡°No!¡± He argues, now afraid. ¡°I would never do that!¡±


    ¡°You are telling me that a group of intruders showed up at my home and you just happened to be with them?¡± Says Luxor, crossing his arms. ¡°I can forgive many sins, but leading HERETICS here and lying to my face?¡± He shakes his head slowly, looking more disappointed than angry. Then again, Solomon finds it hard to tell what he¡¯s thinking exactly behind those shining white eyes.


    ¡°What must I do to forgive me, O, Lord!¡± The bloodhound pleads. ¡°Ironic.¡±


    The fox pauses for a moment before making a slight smile.


    ¡°You lead them here.¡± He then looks at Solomon. ¡°And you intruded here.¡± He gestures to them to come closer. ¡°Earn your forgiveness, entertain me. Duel, whoever wins will have all their crimes against me forgiven.¡±


    Solomon shakes her head.


    ¡°Duel? That doesn¡¯t-¡± Antonio wastes no time and lands a left hook on her face, not a hint of regret or remorse in his eyes. She feels rage rise within her, whether it¡¯s hers of Genesis¡¯, she isn¡¯t entirely sure.


    ¡°Quel salaud!¡± She shouts as she bares her claws and slashes at him.


    ¡°You¡¯re not worthy¡­ The people, they need me!¡± Says Antonio. Solomon feels personally insulted on Durazo¡¯s behalf. ¡°No¡­ This is where it ends for you.¡±


    ¡°Need you?¡± She says, retracting her claws. ¡°Need you? You are supposed to be a person the people can trust, yet you exploit them!¡± She cries out, Antonio steps back, surprised.


    ¡°My business is mine alone! Who even are you?!¡± He yells with bloodshot eyes, growling.


    ¡±Who am I?¡± Says the cat as her markings light up. ¡°My name is Roxanne Solomon. I may just be the only living Acid One currently. History and legends alike spoke of us as selfish, greedy, and deceitful, only ever caring about ourselves.¡± She starts walking over to a now panicked-looking Antonio, feeling a sense of pride coming from Genesis.


    ¡°But what I¡¯m about to do, I¡¯m not doing for myself.¡± She looks at her dripping hands and clenches her fists. ¡°No, I¡¯m doing it for the greatest Bright One I have ever known. I may not have known him for too long, but I can tell that he is a living example of what people like you should be.¡±


    Luxor looks exceedingly flattered by her words.


    ¡°He inspires me, he is just, and he could once call you a friend, but you didn¡¯t care about that.¡±


    The white fox looks at the two of them in anticipation. Solomon feels her hand tingle.


    ¡°I am your comeuppance for wronging this great man. Go to hell.¡± She lets Genesis take over, spiral-shaped acid tendril forms in her hand.


    ¡°Wh-what is that?¡± The clergyman asks in a panic. Solomon closes her eyes as the tendril shoots forward and wraps itself around his abdomen. His yells do not last long as he is bisected by the corrosive tendril.


    Solomon powers down her magic as she takes back control, turning away from what must be a rather grizzly sight, and opens her eyes to see a terribly satisfied-looking Luxor and a terrified bat. The same bat that would have been in her nightmares if her dreams had the chance to be any different.


    The white fox briefly applauds her, which the bat joins in on, likely to appease him further. ¡°Your sins are hereby forgiven.¡±

 Chapter 17 - Hubris

    ¡°This is it.¡± Durazo says as he and the four accompanying him stand in front of a cathedral. Lisa looks terribly uncomfortable, not being used to the decidedly warmer weather of Spain. ¡°Antonio¡­ You let me down so many times, for once, please do not.¡±


    The ex-priest opens the massive door to the building. The interior is decorated with fancy pillars, stained glass and golden statues. At the other end of the cathedral, there is a pipe organ. Two staircases lead to an upper floor. No one seems to be inside.


    ¡°Won¡¯t we get into trouble for leaving work for who knows how long?¡± Lisa asks Adelar.


    ¡°It¡¯s my company.¡± He responds with a slight frown. ¡°And I value my employee and friend more than I value Miss Gertrude complaining about the neighbour¡¯s kid doing his homework too loud. I took on every job to make the front busy, once this is over, that¡¯s going to change.¡±


    ¡°Fine by me.¡± Lisa shrugs, although somewhat glad to hear such news. ¡°Let¡¯s go check upstairs, Yaro.¡±


    Lisa and Yaroslav rush ahead to look around the sacred building, heading to the first floor.


    ¡°How can you be so sure that this is the right person?¡± Adelar asks Durazo as he admires the building.


    ¡°What we¡¯re sure of is that she¡¯s in Spain. This could help us narrow it down.¡± He says as he looks around. After a short while, he shakes his head.


    ¡°What is it, Father?¡± Thalia asks. She, too, looks rather uncomfortable in the cathedral. Maybe because of her darkness?


    ¡°The donation box is almost full. If Antonio was here, that wouldn¡¯t be the case.¡± He says with a sigh.


    ¡°Nothing up here, Father.¡± Says Yaroslav, standing next to Lisa at the guard rail on the first floor.


    ¡°You never fail to disappoint me, Antonio¡­¡± Durazo says to himself. ¡°Given how he¡¯s not at his mansion either-¡±


    Just then, the door to what must be the sacristy opens and out comes an ibex wearing a cassock. He seems quite surprised by the gathering in the cathedral until he sees the ex-priest.


    ¡°Durazo!¡± Is the only word the rest of the group understand as the ibex and Durazo converse in Spanish.


    Lisa and Yaroslav come down to the ground floor, the former of which fanning herself. From Durazo¡¯s tone of voice, the ibex doesn¡¯t have the best of news for them. He bows slightly to the ibex and turns towards the group as the priest goes back to the sacristy.


    ¡°We can leave.¡± He says in a dejected tone.


    ¡°What did he say?¡± Asks the bear, looking concerned.


    ¡°He first asked if I¡¯m here because I wanted to come back. Of course, no.¡± He leads them to the entrance, then outside the cathedral. ¡°Antonio was apparently taken away by two men the other day for a ¡°business venture¡±.¡± He says as he closes the door.


    ¡°Did he say where to?¡± Asks the eagle.


    ¡°No. In other words, Solomon might as well be anywhere in Spain.¡± He leans against the wall of the cathedral. Lisa takes out her pipe to have a puff.


    ¡°Ain¡¯t that splendid.¡± She remarks, looking quite sad as she sniffs the air. ¡°I can say for certain, she wasn¡¯t in here, ever.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t suppose you can track her scent?¡± Thalia suggests.


    ¡°Not if she¡¯s more than about a kilometre away, which she definitely is.¡± Lisa responds as she takes a puff. ¡°Can¡¯t track her across the bloody country, as much as I would like to.¡±


    ¡°Then we¡¯ll find somewhere you can.¡± Adelar chimes in, which elicits rather unamused looks from the others.


    ¡°Adelar...¡± Durazo begins to say, taking a step towards him. ¡°Do you have any idea how big this country is? She could be anywhere.¡±


    ¡°We have to try something.¡± He retorts. ¡°She¡¯s counting on us.¡±


    Solomon takes a moment to really understand what just happened. This fox just took several bullets and not only stood up right after, but cut two people in half as well. ¡°He must be True Light, that¡¯s the only way he could have survived!¡± With that knowledge, she really doesn¡¯t think she can fight him.


    And now, he will regard her as a part of his cult? It sure beats the alternative, but Solomon isn¡¯t exactly excited about it either.


    ¡°Come with me.¡± Luxor says in a tone which can be best described as pretentiously venerable. ¡°Hopefully, there will not be any interruptions this time.¡± He puts a hand on her shoulder, she is once again enveloped in light for just a second this time. He then holds out his hand. Solomon looks up and into his shining, white eyes, fearful.


    ¡°Where are you taking me?¡± She asks softly.


    ¡°Initiation.¡± Says the fox. ¡°With my fire worshipper having gone missing, I am in need of a replacement.¡±


    Solomon wonders why he doesn¡¯t just take Sheila, if he needs a Blazing One. She then remembers that Sheila likely isn¡¯t the best candidate for that for various reasons, like the fact that she would likely refuse to cooperate. She on the other hand¡­ She is much more afraid, even with such a destructive power in her hands. Luxor doesn¡¯t seem afraid of her at all. Whatever this initiation might be, she really doesn¡¯t like it, even though it seems like her best chance to survive this.


    Solomon grabs onto his hand and lets him lead her, which Haemon doesn¡¯t seem to approve of, but doesn¡¯t say anything about it. On the way, she sees cult members pass them by, giving the fox a slight nod or a full bow. They hardly take notice of her.


    ¡°If I may be permitted to ask, are you¡­ True Light?¡± She inquires on the way, trying to sound as humble as she can.


    ¡°What might that be?¡± The white fox asks with a soft chuckle, apparently not minding the way she called him.


    Solomon takes a second to collect her thoughts. ¡°Of course, how would he know about the official names¡­¡±


    The bat, however, eyes her suspiciously.


    ¡°How did you become so¡­¡± She pauses, the fox anticipating how she¡¯ll describe him. ¡°Powerful? How can you regenerate so quickly?¡±


    The fox looks pleased with her curiosity.


    ¡°I am a God. All light belongs to me. My purpose is to get back what is owed to me from the HEATHENS.¡± He noticeably growls as he says the last word, startling Solomon. ¡°...so that I may become the God that my believers, my people deserve!¡±


    The cat really isn¡¯t convinced that it answered her question.


    ¡°But¡­ How did you do that? Do you take their light?¡± She asks. ¡°...O, Radiant One?¡± She adds, which the fox seems to approve of.


    ¡°They are unworthy of light. Only I may have it.¡± He notices the rather confused look on Solomon¡¯s face. ¡°Yes.¡± He adds with a proud look. ¡°This guy¡­ He¡¯s far too gone. How much light has he taken? Given how he believes he¡¯s a God¡­ Likely a lot.¡±


    After a while of walking, she and Luxor stop in front of a door that has been painted completely white. Upon being opened, he leads her inside. In the room, everything is white. The walls, the floor, what little furniture is in the room, everything. There is a large section dedicated entirely to store white robes and what look like rags, possibly other pieces of clothing as well.


    ¡°Before you can be properly initiated, you must appear appropriate.¡± Says the fox, taking a robe off of a stack. ¡°Shed your impure garments, so that you may join us in glorious perfection.¡±


    Solomon does not like this turn of events. Neither does Genesis from what she feels.


    ¡°Is that really¡­ necessary?¡± She asks sheepishly.


    ¡°I expect my loyal flock to trust me as I trust them. I promise not to look.¡± He says as he hands over a robe, what she now realises is a loincloth and what still just looks like a long rag to her. Having done that, he turns away.


    ¡°Okay, he is completely insane.¡±


    She stands there for a few long moments, just looking at him.


    ¡°Tell me when we can proceed to the initiation.¡± He says as if it¡¯s the most natural thing to him that she¡¯ll just put those on. She at the very least wants to request something other than what she was given, but thinks about how that somehow, in his twisted mind, it could be offensive. She decides against it.


    The robe is a little too big for her, but it does have pockets on the outside, as well as buttons to keep the robe closed when needed. ¡°At least they have standards.¡± She puts her uncharged phone into one of the pockets.


    Given how Luxor only seems to permit light-coloured clothing, she¡¯s never been so glad to be wearing white underwear in her life. She figures out that the long rag is supposed to be wrapped around her chest. The entire outfit is something no sane person should put on for daily life in her opinion. ¡°I can accept a suit, but this¡­¡± She takes a look at her watch, figuring that from the right angle, it does sort of look white.


    ¡°...we can go ahead.¡± She says eventually after buttoning the robe. The fox immediately turns around, not commenting on how she looks.


    ¡°Very well.¡± He says with a pleasant smile, leading her outside and back into the hall they came from, where the bodies and blood have all been cleaned up, replaced by a sizable mass of people in all kinds of white clothing, but mostly robes. ¡°There have to be more than a hundred of them here¡­ Just like that agent said.¡±


    If you discover this tale on Amazon, be aware that it has been unlawfully taken from Royal Road. Please report it.


    ¡°Radiant One!¡± Says a bat as she approaches. ¡°Another bat?¡± She¡¯s a skinny leaf-nosed bat, but still intimidating, like Haemon. Seems to be about his age too, around a few years older than Solomon. Her fur is reddish brown, wearing regular, white clothes similar to what Haemon was wearing. Solomon can immediately tell that she¡¯s a Mystic One, with silver, jagged lines surrounded by grey lines with curved ends covering her arms. ¡°We have taken care of the last intruder. She resisted to no end, but she is now in the dungeon.¡± She looks at Solomon and raises an eyebrow. ¡°She must be talking about Sheila.¡±


    ¡°Most divine effort.¡± Says Luxor, pleased, then notices the way the bat eyes Solomon. ¡°Do not mind her. She swore loyalty to me and saw the consequences of betrayal.¡± He puts his hands together, looking satisfied about having a possible new worshipper. ¡°Judging by her power and obedience, she could be a worthy part of us.¡±


    Solomon feels rather insulted by being called obedient, but she understands why it was said. ¡°And you would not question my judgement, would you?¡± He says, reaching down to caress the bat¡¯s face.


    ¡°Of course not, Your Radiance.¡± She responds, lowering her head.


    If Solomon wanted to leave The System, then she positively wants to get out of this castle as soon as possible.


    ¡°Even that was better than this gathering of maniacs.¡±


    Solomon looks past the bat to see Haemon chatting with¡­ Another bat with markings? ¡°What¡¯s up with this place and Mystic Bats?¡± This one¡¯s markings resemble the ones she saw on Stefano. ¡°So they have an Electric One as well.¡±


    He looks a little more muscular, his fur is a darker shade of grey, unlike the other two, his nose resembles that of a canine, wearing clothes similar to the other bats. He looks to be around Solomon¡¯s age, a couple years older at max.


    Luxor walks over to the middle of the podium and gestures to Solomon to follow, which she obliges.


    ¡°Oh, I¡¯ll show you obedience¡­ Eventually. Somehow.¡±


    ¡°My most loyal, beloved worshippers!¡± Luxor begins, causing the hall to fall silent. ¡°It is with great pleasure that I announce that a former UNBELIEVER has been converted!¡± He announces as he turns to take Solomon¡¯s hand and raise it, showing off her marking. ¡°Behold! Power! While nothing compared to your God, I have taken an interest in it and its wielder!¡± He turns her slightly so that she¡¯s facing him. Solomon glances to her left, where the three bats are lined up, as well as a figure she hasn¡¯t seen before and can¡¯t quite make out with just her peripheral.


    ¡°Her name: Roxanne Solomon!¡± Luxor goes on. ¡°And she is now a part of our society of light and purity!¡±


    The mass erupts into cheering and applauding. Solomon can¡¯t help feeling somewhat grateful for being called by her name.


    ¡°Today is but a small victory against an insolent group of BLASPHEMERS, but a victory of purity nonetheless!¡± He continues, the cultists respond with more applause. ¡°And now, who might undertake the task of showing this lost, benighted soul the truths of life? Who thinks him or herself worthy of such a burden?¡±


    For all his shortcomings, which Solomon thinks there are many, the white fox can certainly make a speech. She picks up on the slightest hint of a Spanish accent in his language, which he appears to try to hide.


    ¡°I will!¡± Says one of the cultists almost immediately, much to Luxor¡¯s pleasure. He walks up to the podium, and Solomon¡¯s heart sinks upon seeing who it is. Grayson, the goat she last saw get taken by Haemon. But something is different¡­ The markings on his hands are no longer there.


    ¡°Oh no¡­¡± Solomon tries to look as if she doesn¡¯t recognise him.


    ¡°You may be new to our Paradise, but you are so eager to spread our way already!¡± Says Luxor, followed by a cheer.


    ¡°Of course, Radiant One.¡± Grayson says in a lowly tone. ¡°I shall educate the newcomer to the best of my ability.¡±


    The fox looks exceedingly happy with how things are turning out.


    ¡°Show her her new home, her new life!¡± Luxor turns towards the mass. ¡°Show her what it means to be Lightborn!¡±


    ¡°Yes, Radiant One.¡± The goat says and bows.


    ¡°I am counting on you!¡± The fox says magnanimously. ¡°And thus, this meeting is now concluded.¡± He announces in a softer tone. ¡°You may go and enjoy the life of light until the next time I call on you!¡± His voice rises as he adds, walking down from the podium where those closest to him embrace him one by one, him standing much taller than all of them.


    Solomon can now take a look at the last figure. Not a single square centimetre is showing from the person. They are wearing thick, Winter clothes, including a darker beige coat with its hood on. The inside of the hood looks fuzzy and white. The cat feels entirely too warm just looking at them, given the soft warmth the lanterns give off. A piece of grey cloth is wrapped around the person¡¯s head, covering the face. They have a pair of welding goggles to cover the eyes. They also wear thick, black gloves, black trousers and beige boots. In addition, they have a knife in a leather holster on each side of their body. One question remains on Solomon¡¯s mind as she looks at the person: why?


    She feels a sense of concern from Genesis.


    ¡°Come, let me show you around.¡± Grayson says in a tone which she finds much more agreeable.


    Solomon nods and follows after him. He seems to know exactly where he¡¯s going in the castle, she already feels lost after turning a few corners. And even then¡­ Everything looks so clean. She will have to ask about that for certain. She feels her foot kick into something as she turns right once. ¡°That corner is deceptively close¡­¡±


    She is eventually taken to a familiar wooden door.


    ¡°In here.¡± Says the goat as he opens it and heads inside, followed by Solomon. He looks around before closing the door.


    ¡°What the hell are you doing here?!¡± He asks softly, worried, catching Solomon by surprise.


    ¡°I could ask you the same!¡± She retorts, having many questions she wants answered as soon as possible. She glances at his hands again. ¡°Your light¡­¡±


    The goat sighs in response.


    ¡°That was the first thing he did when I got here. I won¡¯t get into the details, but it is possible to remove the magic from¡­¡±


    ¡°With splicing.¡± Solomon cuts him off. ¡°I saw the symbols. How does he know about it?¡± Grayson looks at her in disbelief.


    ¡°How do you know about splicing?¡± He questions her and shakes his head. ¡°Doesn¡¯t matter. The fact that you¡¯re here¡­ That¡¯s bad. Really bad.¡± He peeks through the door, making sure there¡¯s no one else nearby or coming to the dungeon. ¡°Listen, we probably don¡¯t have much time. As far as they know, I¡¯m showing you around the castle. If they learn that I¡¯m not¡­¡±


    Solomon nods, although she would prefer having more time to have her questions properly answered. Grayson takes one more peek and turns to face Solomon, grabbing her by the shoulders.


    ¡°Luxor¡¯s dangerous. Extremely so. He may look like a nutcase, but I think there has to be a method to his madness.¡± His eyes grow wide as he explains to the cat. ¡°Number one rule: DO NOT criticise or question him EVER.¡±


    Solomon feels a chill go down her spine, longing for a normal life more and more each day.


    ¡°His ego is terribly fragile, but he¡¯s terribly gullible as well. Just act like the lowliest servant you possibly can and you won¡¯t get in trouble. Got all that?¡±


    Solomon nods with a fearful look, feeling great contempt from Genesis already.


    The door behind them creaks open, they both turn to face whoever is coming in. It¡¯s the person with the welding goggles and winter clothes.


    ¡°I know what you¡¯re thinking¡­¡± Grayson begins to say. ¡°Why am I showing the newcomer the dungeons first?¡±


    Solomon has no way to tell what the person could possibly be thinking or feeling due to all the covering on their face. They just look ahead at the two of them.


    ¡°I just wanted to make sure she knows what happens if she were to turn against us!¡± He explains, gesturing towards the holding cells.


    The person nods and walks past them.


    With a soft sigh of relief, Grayson leads Solomon out of the dungeon.


    ¡°Keep calm at all times. Don¡¯t act suspicious. Don¡¯t question your new God.¡± He whispers to her after making sure there¡¯s no one to hear him. Solomon senses that even Genesis feels rather nervous in this place.


    ¡°Who was that?¡± She asks, also in a whisper.


    ¡°I have no idea. I¡¯ve never seen their face. Or fur. Or anything.¡± Grayson admits. ¡°All I know is that they oversee the dungeons.¡± He gestures to her to get out of the way as a small group of cultists approach them.


    ¡°Okay Solomon.¡± Grayson says in a forced, much more cheerful tone as they walk past them. ¡°We should get you a map first. Follow me.¡±


    Solomon is led through the halls of the castle, this time, much more populated. On the way there, she bangs her right foot on seemingly nothing once. She wants to look into it, but doesn¡¯t want to stray too far from Grayson, so she follows him. ¡°I really should watch my step¡­¡±


    The very first thing she notices about the people is their behaviour. She sees so many of them cleaning, constantly. Not just the floor, but the walls, even the ceiling as well. Grayson takes notice of this.


    ¡°That¡¯s something you¡¯ll have to get used to. The Radiant One will not tolerate any part of the castle to be dirty.¡± He gives her a side eye look. ¡°That¡¯s kind of welcome if you ask me.¡±


    Solomon likes the place less and less with each new thing she learns about it. Not the keeping the castle clean part, but the obsessive cleaning part.


    The people don¡¯t even take notice of them. Solomon sees one of them clean the same discolouration on a wall for an uncomfortably long time as they walk past. They stop by a coyote with a broom in his hand, sweeping a section of the floor that looks perfectly clean to Solomon.


    ¡°Hey, mind giving us a map?¡± Grayson asks him. The coyote stops, takes a folded piece of paper out of his pocket, and gives it to the goat. ¡°I appreciate it.¡± The coyote goes back to cleaning without another word.


    Solomon notices that just like the building, the people are spotless as well. Not what she would normally expect from a cult, but she finds it at least a little pleasant to be wrong on that.


    Grayson unfolds the map and gives it to Solomon. She sees various words scribbled on different parts of the castle, she looks for the dungeon as a starting point. The castle layout itself is extremely confusing, including multiple hallways that don¡¯t lead anywhere.


    Only a few corridors away from the dungeon, she sees the ¡°Hall of Light¡±, marked with a little drawing of a fox head, which she figures is where Luxor made his speech, as well as the ¡°Dining Hall¡± a similar distance away. The bastions are labelled simply as ¡°Lookouts¡±. She sees various, smaller rooms all around the castle, many of these make up the sleeping quarters on the western side of the castle. On the eastern side, also made up of smaller rooms is the ¡°Hall of Pleasure¡±. Solomon senses great discomfort from Genesis, which she herself feels as well. There is a room named ¡°Hall of Wisdom¡± at the northern side and two simply named ¡°Lounge¡± at the southern side. The towers are labelled as ¡°Study Rooms¡±. There are also smaller rooms with the labels ¡°Bathroom¡± and ¡°Washroom¡±. All of these are connected by long hallways and staircases.


    ¡°Right¡­¡± She says after taking a good look at the map.


    ¡°You can keep it.¡± The coyote says with a blank expression. Solomon folds up the map and pockets it, unable to hide that she¡¯s interested in the ¡°Hall of Wisdom¡±. If she were to find a pen and paper anywhere in this building, that¡¯s likely where she would.


    ¡°Where do you even get your food from?¡± She asks, a little louder than she intended.


    ¡°We fish.¡± Says Grayson. ¡°We also gather and have a little place to make bread. The shipments also help.¡± He adds as he leads Solomon away from the people cleaning that particular hall. That one person is still trying to remove that discolouration from the wall, which is most likely just part of the stone¡¯s natural look. She really hopes that he¡¯s just trying to look busy.


    ¡°What shipments?¡± She asks, raising an eyebrow.


    Grayson clicks his tongue, putting his hands behind his back, taking long, slow steps.


    ¡°A few of the people have some outside connections, they keep us supplied with goods in exchange for healing.¡±


    Solomon feels almost impressed. She can certainly see how Luxor lures desperate people into the cult.


    ¡°Does the ¡°Radiant One¡± answer questions?¡± She asks as another small group walks past them.


    ¡°As long as you¡¯re respectful.¡± Grayson replies with a shrug.


    Solomon looks around and leans close to him.


    ¡°I¡¯ll be at the Hall of Wisdom.¡± She whispers.


    ¡°Just call it a library.¡± Grayson adds with a smile, she nods in understanding.


    ¡°Meet me there later. I have to do something.¡± Right as she says that, she senses Genesis feel rather happy. ¡°I¡¯ll get out of here. Somehow.¡±

 Chapter 18 - Reverie

    Solomon heads to the library, her thoughts about the whole situation, especially Luxor and the bats, being momentarily overshadowed by Genesis. He may have haunted her nightmares and used her hands to destroy part of that warehouse, but she may just get answers as to why. She feels like he can¡¯t truly just be about destruction.


    On her way, she encounters more people cleaning, although less than in that one hall. The castle being clean is the last thing she minds about being in the cult.


    She enters the library, the sheer size of the room and number of people in there surprises her. Most desks and chairs have a person or two sitting there, reading. ¡°I guess there isn¡¯t much to do in a castle other than this.¡±


    She tries to keep quiet as she looks around. The rows upon rows of books are sorted by categories such as romance and fiction. ¡°Reality sure is stranger than fiction at times¡­¡± There is one category labelled as ¡°Truth¡±. It piques her curiosity, but not enough to look into it. Like every other room or hallway in the castle, the library is spotless. She walks over to the person who looks the least disagreeable, in this case, another cat reading a thick book.


    ¡°Hey.¡± She says, getting his attention immediately. ¡°Where can I find a pen and paper?¡±


    ¡°In the back.¡± Is all he says as he briefly looks up from the book, pointing to the other side of the library with his thumb. Solomon nods and thanks the cat.


    She walks past the rows upon rows of books all the way to the other end. She needs to search a little bit, but eventually, she finds a pen in one of the desks. In another, she finds a small, empty notebook. She can feel a great sense of anticipation from Genesis.


    ¡°Soon, very soon¡­¡± She says softly.


    She goes to the least populated part of the library, where there are bean bags rather than chairs, which she finds odd. She quickly understands why no one else is there; upon sitting down on a bean bag, she sinks into it so much, she ends up lying on her back rather than sitting. Genesis finds that funny, apparently.


    She gets up and stacks one on top of another by the wall. Having another bag at her back next to the wall certainly makes things more comfortable.


    ¡°Here we go¡­¡± She whispers, taking the pen in her right hand and notebook in her left. Her right hand tingles, she lets Genesis take over.


    The first thing he does is immediately drop the pen on accident, which makes him feel rather awkward. He reaches down for it and nearly pulls Solomon off of the ramshackle arrangement of bean bags she made.


    He picks it up and tries to get a feel for holding it. It feels all too surreal to have someone else control her hand like that.


    Genesis makes a couple incomprehensible scribbles on the paper before he draws familiar symbols, the same ones that were on the Ledger. She is out of sight enough to comfortably power up her magic to read his writings. ¡°Tell me what you have to say.¡±


    ¡°AT LAST.¡± The writing reads. Solomon feels a great sense of elation from him. ¡°It has been so, so long.¡± She herself feels indescribably excited along with him. She¡¯s talking to an ancient Mystic One!


    ¡°You have my eternal gratitude, fellow feline.¡± He writes.


    ¡°I want to know everything!¡± Solomon exclaims, although softly to not draw suspicion. ¡°Please, tell me all you know!¡± She feels a sense of annoyance mixed with confusion from Genesis.


    ¡°Slow down. ¡®Everything¡¯ is too broad. You do not have enough parchment for that.¡±


    Solomon inspects the symbols he writes before they are translated. She may speak two languages, but she sees no rhyme or reason behind this one.


    ¡°Okay¡­¡± She calms herself, taking a second to think about what she should ask. ¡°What is this language you¡¯re using?¡±


    Genesis feels rather pleased about her question.


    ¡°It is a code language with no logic behind it. It is made to be entirely indecipherable to those with no magic.¡± Solomon already feels fascinated. ¡°It can be used exclusively by Mystic Ones. In the presence of magic, the symbols are translated to the user.¡± Solomon takes a second to look at the symbols without her magic again. How it¡¯s possible to write with no logic, yet still have it make sense is beyond her.


    ¡°Smart.¡± She states, which results in a sense of pride from him. ¡°So¡­ Who are you, really?¡± She asks. He turns sad and sombre from the question, not writing for about a minute. ¡°Did I say something wrong?¡± Just as that thought pops into her head, her hand goes to write again.


    ¡°It has been such a long time that I have forgotten my name.¡± He states, followed by a more hopeful sensation from him. ¡°It was meaningless compared to what I needed to remember. But you have given me a name! And for that, I thank you.¡±


    Solomon feels¡­ Pity? Towards Genesis.


    ¡°I¡¯m so sorry. I didn¡¯t know¡­¡± Solomon now wants to know just about everything about the former feline¡¯s life. ¡°I tend to be a little curious, shall we say.¡± She shrugs, then realises that he most likely can¡¯t see that she just did that. The first page of the notebook is already full.


    ¡°You created a new type of magic? How is that even possible?¡± She inquires and looks around, no one has even come close to her during her conversation.


    ¡°You care to listen to my story?¡± He writes, feeling quite touched by her interest.


    ¡°Of course!¡± Solomon says with a smile, which he also can¡¯t see. ¡°Legends be damned, I want to hear your side.¡±


    ¡°Very well.¡± He begins to write. After a good few minutes of straight writing and Genesis going through many emotions, Solomon¡¯s hand feels tired and sore. Before she says anything, he stops and puts down the pen. Solomon takes back control to shake her hand and rub her wrist.


    ¡°Give me a little time.¡± She says, caring much more about him than a cult all of a sudden. Her situation is number two on her list of priorities, number one being getting to know about the being that has haunted her for years. ¡°I¡¯ll have to ask about that one later.¡±


    ¡°I was a genius. Truly, one of a kind.¡± Solomon doesn¡¯t quite like the way he starts his story. ¡°I myself was not a Mystic One, but I was the most educated person about it in the area. I understood its intricacies and connections to nature. I was respected, looked up to by my peers and elders alike.¡± She remembers him feeling proud at the start. ¡°I knew everything about every single magic type, including the possible techniques people would use. I decided to gather all of that wisdom in a book. That book is the Ledger.¡±


    Solomon¡¯s eyes widen as she reads.


    ¡°You wrote that?¡± She turns to a blank page and lets him write ¡°Yes.¡± onto it. She continues reading, eager to know even more about him now.


    ¡°It took years, but it was done. I was no older than you when the Ledger was finished. One could say that I had an affinity and talent for magic. Of course, my knowledge is not what it once was.¡± Solomon briefly thinks about the things she¡¯s done in her life up to this point and finds that it doesn¡¯t even begin to compare. She¡¯s only 27, if what he¡¯s saying is true, then he was an overall extremely intelligent person.


    ¡°A few years later, I decided that I should put my knowledge to good use by taking up a magic type. But there was a problem, I had to choose. Every magic type has such vastly different uses, I could not choose one or two. I decided to do the unthinkable, to make my own, new magic type.¡±


    Solomon remembers him feeling a sense of regret around this part when he was writing.


    ¡°That was my biggest mistake. The world, the society of magic, neither were ready for that, in hindsight. But I did it. Using parts of other types of magic, and a little bit of myself, I made the new type: acid!¡±


    She wonders why he might have made that in specific.


    ¡°I wanted to impress the ruler at the time, but he was too fearful about my masterpiece.¡± Solomon feels worried about where his story is going.


    ¡°He told me that it was for nothing but senseless destruction! Can you believe it? Acid is needed for many chemical reactions that the ignorant ruler knew nothing about! It would have made so many endeavours easier after a little more refinement so that the potency could be controlled. Of course, we did not call it ¡°acid¡± like you do now. He named it ¡°liquid death¡±. OF COURSE people will be afraid of it if you give it a name like that!¡±


    Solomon distinctly remembers an intense anger from him as he wrote this part. She herself understands his notion, but refinement, this magic would need in her opinion.


    ¡°But that was not all. I would not have destruction without creation. Its blessing, I wanted to incorporate a protection from all magic in whatever is blessed by my creation. I could only get to my own and fire before I was apprehended on the king¡¯s orders.¡±


    Solomon takes a glance at the marking. ¡°So it protects from fire as well? That¡¯s good to know.¡±


    ¡°And then came the irony in my choice of protection. They burned me, Solomon! They burned me on the pyre!¡± Solomon shudders as she reads. That is a fate she wouldn¡¯t wish on anyone. Neither is death by acid, but she didn¡¯t have much of a choice in the matter so far.


    ¡°They tried to rid the world of me and my beautiful creation! However, they did not account for my brilliance. I bound my soul to my magic so that when it returned to the Eternal Swirl, the source of all magic, until it chose someone else to bear it, I would go with it. Nothing but bones remained of me in the end.¡±


    Solomon closes the notebook and takes a second to think, all of this certainly feels like a lot to take in, but she still can¡¯t hide her excitement.


    ¡°This¡­ This is horrible.¡± She says under her breath, feeling dejected. She isn¡¯t sure if she should even believe him in the first place¡­ But she wants to. She wants to believe that the person possessing her doesn¡¯t just want senseless destruction, that there¡¯s more to him than that.


    She opens the notebook and re-reads parts of what he wrote. She already has so many more questions that she isn¡¯t even sure where to begin. After taking a moment to properly ponder, she decides to ask about what concerns her most.


    ¡°Did you choose vile, evil people to acquire the magic you made?¡± She asks in a whisper. Just the idea makes him feel intense rage, her hand practically aching from the tingling. He desperately wants to write to her, to explain.


    ¡°Lies! LIES!¡± He writes. ¡°My luck ran out when the first person that was chosen, not by me, mind you, to bear the marking turned out to be as the Ledger described. A person most violent and hateful was chosen at random, like with all magic. To my surprise, he quickly became proficient with my creation, destroying two cities before finally being taken down. And them¡­¡± Genesis¡¯ rage only grows as he writes, which makes Solomon feel concerned. ¡°They knew I would find my book again. They knew I would look into how they changed the section on acid. You read it as acid, I read it as liquid death, as I only learned how it is called nowadays recently. Not only did they write down all those lies, but they wrote it on a special page that only I and my host could see AND removed my name from it?! That did it.¡±


    Solomon¡¯s questions are only growing in size as she reads, her hand aching from having Genesis write with it, but she¡¯s too invested to tell him to stop.


    ¡°For millennia, I possessed people, trying to find the book, to find my name once more, to prove myself to the new world of magic. I would normally merge with the possessed person when the magic fully awakened, but since it happened so suddenly for you, I had to resort to something different. And then to read the things we both read... I have to apologise, Solomon. What I unleashed there was the rage of a millenia old betrayal. I had to let my rage out, and that got us here.¡±


    Solomon looks up from the notebook and glances at her markings. She is left speechless for a few long moments, not minding the slight pain in her wrist.


    ¡°I do not blame you if you do not believe me. But know that I am truly sorry for what you had to go through. My form in people¡¯s dreams is rather hideous, I can only thank you for trusting me to merge with you in this way, even if you did not know what it would result in.¡± He writes, a sense of calm coming from him.


    Solomon rubs her wrist, utterly bewildered, feeling that she really, really needs some time to think. By herself.


    ¡°Why aren¡¯t you just taking over me against my will anymore?¡± She asks in an indignant tone. Genesis¡¯ feeling of calm does not change as he writes.


    ¡°I cannot. It takes a hundred years to regain my power after the host dies. You were the first in a long while who I could cooperate with, so when you fell into that hole and almost died, I kept you alive. But it resulted in my power becoming much weaker. That is why.¡±


    A tear rolls down Solomon¡¯s cheek.


    ¡°So if it wasn¡¯t for you¡­ I¡¯d be dead?¡± She asks, more than a little shook.


    ¡°Yes.¡± Genesis states in written form. Pages upon pages of the notebook are already filled with his writing. Solomon closes it, puts it and the pen in her pocket and leans back, looking ahead at nothing as she merely thinks. Genesis feels indifferent, understanding.


    Solomon got so many of her questions answered, and as a result, she learned things she won¡¯t ever forget. She thinks, thinks for a few long minutes about everything Genesis has told her. That last part especially, she cannot come to accept.


    She eventually takes the notebook and pen out again with a deep breath, prepared to read whatever else he wants to tell.


    ¡°That is why I have such an aversion to Blazing Ones.¡± She lets him write. ¡°It was so beautiful, I miss the food, the wine, the wisdom¡­¡± Solomon can¡¯t help but feel a little sympathy. ¡°It must be terrible to have everything taken away just like that¡­¡±


    ¡°I want to believe that what you did wasn¡¯t done out of malice.¡± She states after a couple minutes of silence, looking at her markings. Her right hand tingles in response.


    ¡°You are not the first I could control, but the first who would listen.¡± He writes. ¡°And that, I would like to thank by being honest. You deserve to know.¡±


    Solomon puts her hands together and lets her mind wander for a few seconds, from one thing that she was just told to another, unable to make up her mind about Genesis. On one hand, she wants to trust him, which would put her mind at ease. On the other hand, he could have just lied about everything.


    ¡°Very well.¡± She manages to say, her mind already on another thing she wants to ask. She then pulls out her uncharged phone and allows Genesis to take a good look at it.


    ¡°How did you know I was looking for this?¡± She asks, putting it back into her pocket.


    ¡°I saw others use these little devices. I could do nothing but look, so I looked. I happened to spot it.¡±


    Solomon isn¡¯t sure if she should believe that.


    ¡°On that note¡­¡± She says, feeling slightly awkward. ¡°For how long could you see through my eyes?¡±


    ¡°I could hear before we merged. I could see after we merged.¡± Solomon shudders as she reads, even though that was mere days ago.


    ¡°Now, I saw that you didn¡¯t have eyes, at least not in the typical sense¡­¡± She begins. ¡°But can you close them?¡±


    ¡°Ever since I had your eyes, I could.¡± He responds, feeling indifferent.


    ¡°That does make me feel better¡­ But I need some time.¡± She puts the notebook in her pocket and crosses her arms. ¡°This is so much for one day¡­¡±


    So much information all at once, Solomon never would have thought that she would learn so much about her power from what effectively is her power. Despite everything, she¡¯s still torn on believing him, to believe that he told her the truth, that he isn¡¯t lying like the legends say he would. If Genesis will be by her side for the rest of her life, she would prefer him to be unlike what the legends and the book say.


    She looks down at her hands, her markings, him.


    ¡°I want to trust you so much.¡± She says in a low voice. ¡°I will put my trust in you for the time being. Please don¡¯t make me regret that decision.¡± She says, Genesis responds with but a warm feeling.


    As she¡¯s sitting on the bean bags, zoning out inside her mind, she sees Grayson enter the library. She waves at him, which he notices and goes over to a quite timid-looking Solomon.


    ¡°You don¡¯t look like you¡¯ve been reading too much here.¡± He remarks, sitting down on another bean bag, only to sink into it like she did the first time.


    ¡°Oh, trust me, I did.¡± She scoffs. ¡°How do you even tell the¡­¡± She pauses, glancing at her wrist, on which she still has her watch. ¡°I need to get more used to having it.¡±


    ¡°You look through the window.¡± The goat jokes, looking at the small windows Solomon hasn¡¯t even noticed before. The sky is tinted orange, a sunset. That is confirmed by her looking at the time: 18:59


    ¡°Ah. Great.¡± She thinks about jumping through one and just running off, but she feels like that would be quite a bad idea. If that fox would notice someone missing, it would surely be the new feline of a dubious background. She ran into one of his bats twice now, and that was without him looking for her. With her luck, she¡¯d rather not try anything for the time being.


    Then, the lanterns grow bright for a couple seconds before returning to how they were. Solomon looks at the scene in confusion as the other people go to leave the library.


    ¡°Oh, that means it¡¯s time for dinner.¡± Says Grayson, standing up from the bean bag, which takes just a couple seconds longer than he¡¯d presumably like. Solomon does feel pretty hungry after everything that happened. She¡¯d rather not stay at another opposing faction¡¯s base of operations, but she doesn¡¯t have much of a choice.


    She follows the goat all the way past the main hall and hears¡­ Music?


    As they enter the dining hall, many if not all people are there, and not just eating. Some have instruments such as violins and whistles, playing an admittedly delightful tune. Others dance in a corner, away from the tables. She spots the table at which Luxor is sitting, the people around him seem positively elated to be sitting at the same table he is. ¡°Do Gods need to eat?¡± The food isn¡¯t exactly plentiful, but enough to feed everyone from what she can tell. ¡°These people¡­ Don¡¯t they see anything wrong with this?¡±


    ¡°We mostly have fish and whatever we can find in the woods.¡± Says Grayson. ¡°But it¡¯s enough. The fishermen and chefs work tirelessly each day to provide for us.¡±


    Solomon can¡¯t help but wonder about the shipments they receive. She figures this isn¡¯t one of the days when they got one. She doesn¡¯t mind the fish, in fact, she prefers it over other types of meat, she¡¯s always loved the taste of certain kinds when made properly.


    Soon enough, she is sitting at a table with Grayson, eating. She isn¡¯t sure about the type of fish they have, but she sure didn¡¯t expect it to be this delicious.


    ¡°The shipments also include spices. Some get bored of fish, however and go out to hunt and gather.¡± The goat explains as Solomon is looking at the people playing instruments and dancing. ¡°Our Lord loves music. And as long as we stay faithful, he loves us.¡±


    The cat feels increasingly troubled at how comfortable these people seem to be under such a monstrous person.


    She looks around and eventually spots a small table where the three bats are sitting. One of them is very clearly looking at her, the female with the silver and grey markings. She¡¯s far away, but Solomon can tell that it is not a pleasant look that she¡¯s giving her. The electric bat on the other hand, he glances over to her for just a moment and smiles. She wants to believe that he wasn¡¯t looking at her when he did, however.


    The author''s narrative has been misappropriated; report any instances of this story on Amazon.


    She briefly glances at the white fox, who is being admired by all the people around him. A nearby canine accidentally cuts himself with a knife, which the fox heals with his light. She can¡¯t help but wonder how this all started, cults don¡¯t normally get this big¡­ Or so she figures, anyway.


    When she looks back to the table where the bats are, the person with welding goggles is standing alongside them, probably engaged in a conversation with them.


    Minutes later, the people finish eating and just dance as two bison bring out two crates from what Solomon assumes is the kitchen. They open the crates and take out bottles, one is brought to Luxor¡¯s table. The liquid in the bottles turns out to be wine, white, of course. A deer pours a glass for him as he stands up.


    ¡°My most faithful believers!¡± He says after picking up the glass. ¡°Let us celebrate a victory over the GODLESS individuals who dared to trespass!¡±


    Wine glasses are brought to each person at each table. Wine is then poured for them as the fox speaks.


    ¡°Not only that, but the flock grows yet again! One of them has already been converted, with one more waiting! Here¡¯s to us, here¡¯s to me!¡±


    The people all raise their glasses, Solomon does as they do. This is when she notices something that, in a way, makes her feel just that much better. There are no children to be seen in the entire hall. ¡°At least he can¡¯t get them while they¡¯re young. Too bad he can still do it when they¡¯re not.¡±


    Everyone around her drinks up after the fox takes the first sip. She¡¯d much rather be fully sober in her situation, she never was big on alcohol.


    ¡°A word of advice¡­¡± Grayson whispers while the rest of the people are distracted. ¡°He considers not celebrating with at least a drink a great disrespect. Trust me, it¡¯s safe to drink it.¡±


    Solomon would rather refrain from that, but once again, she doesn¡¯t feel like there¡¯s much of a choice in the matter. She takes a sip. Its taste is exceptional, better than she expected, which makes her wonder how much he really cares about his worshippers.


    She doesn¡¯t feel like joining the people dancing and overall having fun. In fact, many leave right after having the one glass. She turns to look at the exit and spots the thickly-clothed person walking by. She¡¯s certain she sees the wraps of fabric around where their mouth should be a little wet. ¡°What is up with you?¡±


    ¡°We can leave now if you want.¡± Grayson whispers.


    Solomon takes him up on that offer immediately. She stands up and glances at Luxor one more time before they leave. He looks over at her and winks with a warm smile. She¡¯s not sure how to feel about it. Genesis does, however: very, very awkward.


    They leave the dining hall and she notices that the person in thick clothes is nowhere to be seen. She¡¯s already named one mysterious person once, so she decides to call them ¡°Wraps¡± until she learns their actual name.


    In the ¡°Hall of Light¡±, the people all around are sitting at tables, playing with cards, dice, and even board games.


    ¡°Before you go to sleep¡­¡± Says Grayson. ¡°I¡¯ll show you the beds that are not yet claimed.¡± Solomon nods in response, looking around at the people. Some look rather serious, but she figures it to be the result of the cards.


    ¡°And before you go to bed, at least take a shower.¡± He remarks, which Solomon finds insulting.


    ¡°I mean¡­¡± The goat adds quickly, having realised how bad what he just said sounded. ¡°It¡¯s mandatory to stay clean every day. Either go to a lower part of the nearby river or take a shower.¡±


    ¡°Right.¡± She responds. ¡°Every day?¡± She crosses her arms.


    ¡°The society preaches purity. Hence why Our Lord wants us and the castle to be clean.¡± He explains as they walk up a set of stairs, with just a little more enthusiasm than Solomon would like.


    ¡°Purity?¡± She says incredulously. ¡°We just had a feast complete with wine! They murder people, and I don¡¯t even want to know what exactly goes on in that ¡°Hall of Pleasure¡±. How is any of that considered pure?¡± She asks, making sure to keep as quiet as she can.


    ¡°Well there are¡­ Loopholes.¡± He says with a shrug.


    Solomon gives him an unamused look.


    ¡°Bold of you to assume I could go to bed in a place like this to begin with.¡± She adds.


    ¡°The beds are fine, actually.¡± He retorts as he opens a door. The rooms are quite small, and all too familiar from earlier, housing two bunk beds and a lantern. ¡°If it¡¯s not up to your standards, you can sleep outside with some others. In a tent.¡± He leans close to Solomon and whispers. ¡°I¡¯d have Luxor laser my head off before I sleep in a tent.¡±


    ¡°Great. Just wonderful.¡± She remarks, annoyed. ¡°Who else sleeps here?¡±


    ¡°A sheep. He insists on sleeping on the-¡± He is cut off by Solomon.


    ¡°I¡¯m taking one of the top ones, if I have to sleep here, I¡¯ll have it my way.¡± She demands, which Genesis finds odd, apparently. ¡°Has he even seen bunk beds before?¡± A hundred years is a long time. Only getting information about the world for a lifetime every century sounds horrible to her, no matter how it¡¯s put.


    ¡°Have it your way.¡± The goat says with a shrug. ¡°He sleeps on the bottom bunk in the other bed anyway.¡±


    ¡°Anything else I should know that is required by ¡°Our Lord¡±?¡± She asks, climbing onto the top bed and lying down. The bed really can only be described as fine. It isn¡¯t the best thing she¡¯s ever laid on, but it beats sleeping on stone.


    ¡°Only thing that comes to mind is to wash your clothes every other day.¡± He explains. ¡°There used to be someone to dry them quickly, but ever since he went missing, either Luxor does it or you take care of it yourself.¡±


    Solomon has to admit, she would much rather this cult be about staying clean than whatever alternative may be.


    ¡°By the way, there should be a towel under the pillow.¡± The goat adds before turning to leave.


    Solomon lifts the pillow and sure enough, under the white comforter and pillow, there is a white towel. Feeling like she¡¯ll go insane from seeing so much white, she figures that something is due for the goat.


    ¡°Hey.¡± She says to Grayson, who stops to look back at her. ¡°Thanks. For everything.¡±


    The goat nods with a smile.


    ¡°Any time.¡± He then leaves the room.


    There is nothing in the room other than the beds and the lantern. Not even a window. ¡°It¡¯s somehow not the worst room I¡¯ve been in.¡±


    She¡¯s tired. So very tired. But she needs to hold up the ruse, she needs the fox to believe that she¡¯s a part of this cult. Not to mention, she really could use a shower, more for comfort than anything.


    With a sigh, she gets up and follows the map to the bathroom, running into but two people along the way. They both have their hood on, Solomon isn¡¯t sure what species they are.


    At the bathroom, the white tiles contrast the otherwise stone building greatly. There are hangers for clothes in the middle, there is no one else there. ¡°They must be too busy right now. Good for me.¡±


    Solomon looks down at her hands.


    ¡°Genesis, I would much prefer you to close your eyes until I tell you otherwise now, alright?¡± She allows him to take over her hand, he gives her a thumbs up, feeling indifferent. ¡°At least that was simple enough.¡±


    She wonders how a shower could even be put in there, it is much too modern to have been installed when it was built. ¡°Is that even allowed in such a building?¡± She thinks about it as she turns the water on, only to discover that it¡¯s ice cold. She shivers and steps out from the shower, Genesis feels bad for her, apparently.


    ¡°Genesis¡­¡± She says covering herself with the towel she brought, trying to dry and warm herself. ¡°Can this acid be used for cleaning?¡± He once again gives her a thumbs up with her own hand with a curious feeling.


    She exhales deeply.


    ¡°It sure is better than this¡­ Would the tiles survive it?¡±


    He gives her a thumbs down as a response.


    After properly drying herself, she gets an idea. She infuses the clothes she got, as well as the map, notebook, and pen. She then goes to head outside from the main hall. On her way there, she sees a bird making a scrubbing motion in the air at the side of a hallway, which she finds disturbing.


    Luxor is now sitting on his marble throne, the bats nowhere to be seen. She takes a tentative step towards him as he looks down at the people going about and playing, looking quite bored. He holds out his hand and points at her, which startles Solomon. He then gestures for her to come over, turning his head to face her. She really doesn¡¯t like that she can¡¯t see his pupils.


    ¡°Radiant One?¡± She says as she walks over to him, slowly.


    ¡°Yes, new follower?¡± He says with a bright smile.


    ¡°The showers are too cold.¡± She states, a little embarrassed. ¡°I¡¯d like to go outside to the river.¡± She feels like she appears way too picky, but since there¡¯s an alternative she¡¯d prefer¡­


    The fox raises an eyebrow. He isn¡¯t the first one to question her decisions, but this certainly is the first time a self-proclaimed God raised an eyebrow at her. ¡°I don¡¯t believe he is one, but better safe than sorry.¡±


    ¡°Is that not colder?¡± He questions.


    ¡°Not in this weather.¡± She says, not having any intention of going into the river itself.


    ¡°Fine.¡± The fox shrugs. ¡°But since you are new here¡­ Do not try to leave.¡± His expression turns dreadfully serious. ¡°We will find you.¡±


    Solomon gulps and nods.


    ¡°Thank you, Radiant One¡­¡± She says, causing the fox to smile once more before she goes to leave through the front door, which is surprisingly light despite its size. She only struggles with opening it a little bit.


    Outside, the sun has set. She follows the sound of the river and soon sees a group of four white robed people still outside, fishing by the river, having a conversation. Whatever bait they are using, it¡¯s definitely working, judging by the amount of fish they caught.


    The river¡¯s water is crystal clear, she follows its flow and goes far enough to feel comfortable, considering just running away for a moment. On the way, her hands tingle, she takes out her notebook and pen.


    ¡°This serves as a great reminder to one of the more minor uses of my power.¡± Genesis writes.


    ¡°You did not come up with that back then.¡± Solomon finally felt like she discovered something new, but his response states the opposite.


    ¡°We felines love to stay clean. An unusual use of my power, but a valid one.¡±


    Solomon remembers hearing about how certain acids can be used for cleaning, but those always had a terrible chemical smell, which this one doesn¡¯t have.


    ¡°That, I can agree with. Now keep your eyes closed.¡± She says, taking off her robe. Genesis gives her a thumbs up.


    She stands far enough away from the river so that the acid or the black muck it becomes doesn¡¯t end up in it. Her markings glow a little brighter than she¡¯d like, but she dismisses it.


    It feels nice and warm on her fur, which she finds quite pleasant. Then again, she is using magical acid to clean herself. To her, it feels like warm water, to others, an agonising death. Although, instead of sticking to her like water would, it flows off of her to the ground. She hears the sound of quiet sizzling as she scrubs herself and her clothes clean, the sound growing louder as the acid hits the ground. She then gets a thought about something she could ask Genesis.


    ¡°Can people be infused?¡± She asks, then goes to put on her robe. Her hands tingle intensely, a warm, overjoyed feeling coming from Genesis. She lets him take over.


    To her surprise, her right hand moves to her left side along with her left hand to her right side. She feels terribly confused at that.


    Her right hand then moves to the top of her head and rubs it. She takes back control and just stands there dumbfounded for a couple moments.


    ¡°What¡­ Was that?¡± She asks as she¡¯s putting on her robe, this time with no interruption. She then takes out the pen and notebook and lets Genesis write as she feels a sense of great happiness from him.


    ¡°That was supposed to be a hug.¡± Solomon looks at the text for a few seconds without saying anything, then laughs.


    ¡°As long as you don¡¯t do whatever came after that, I¡¯ll allow it.¡± She certainly finds it quite bizarre that this millenia old feline hugged her with her own arms. The more she thinks about that, the worse it feels, so she discards these thoughts.


    ¡°But¡­ Why did you do  that?¡± She questions, with an awkward smile, which he still can¡¯t see. ¡°I really should get a little mirror for this.¡±


    ¡°I now remember. The little detail I put into my magic, to protect people from magic.¡± Solomon already feels interested. She can certainly think of a few people she would want to protect.


    ¡°I took the unique characteristic of only affecting living beings from darkness and combined it with blessing! My power can bless living beings!¡±


    Solomon finds it a little suspicious that he failed to mention such an important detail, but then again, it has been a long time since he made it. There is a good chance that he truly just forgot about it.


    Solomon now feels a similarly warm, joyous feeling.


    ¡°Tell me how to do it!¡± She demands, excited. She then feels him get worried.


    ¡°The process is similar to its defence mechanism. I¡¯m sure you remember¡­¡± He writes.


    ¡°Of course, how could I ever forget?¡± Her mood instantly becomes worse with that thought. ¡°It turns the blood of the would-be recipient into acid¡­¡±


    ¡°I can do it safely, but I would not trust you to do it.¡±


    Solomon nods in agreement. She wouldn¡¯t trust her to do such a thing either.


    ¡°Why does it have that mechanism anyway?¡± She questions. Genesis turns indifferent, then a little angry as he writes.


    ¡°Many battles were fought over magic in the past. Rulers wanted their people to have it all, which other rulers did not want. Many people died as a result. I wanted to fix that by creating magic that cannot be taken.¡±


    Solomon understands his point, and goes as far as to agree with that. Maybe not with the method he made for it, though. ¡°I see things haven¡¯t changed much, other than secrecy¡­¡±


    ¡°I would like you to bless my friends if we ever make it out of here.¡± She says softly. ¡°One of them especially.¡±


    Her right hand moves to write.


    ¡°Is it the one with the raspy voice?¡± Genesis writes. ¡°What was her name?¡±


    Solomon feels more than a little taken aback, remembering that he could hear the things around her for so long, but tries to keep calm.


    ¡°Lisa.¡± She whispers, feeling slightly flustered. ¡°Listen, I¡­¡±


    She hears a screech coming from the direction of the castle. She can feel her heart beat faster, images of her, Durazo, and Grayson hiding in the field rushing to her mind. ¡°They must be looking for me¡­¡±


    ¡°We better head back now.¡± She says after taking a moment to calm down, pocketing the pen and notebook. She then starts walking towards the castle, hoping that the cult doesn¡¯t think that she tried to leave.


    At the front door, she sees Haemon and the electric bat watch her as she approaches.


    ¡°Told you she just needed a signal.¡± The electric bat says with a smirk.


    Haemon rolls his eyes before scowling at Solomon.


    ¡°You should know better than to keep Our Lord waiting.¡± He says once Solomon gets close enough. She lifts up her hands, her markings glowing, a tired look on her face.


    Haemon recoils and heads back inside the castle, causing the other bat to laugh.


    ¡°You have a sense of humour. I like that.¡± He says, reaching out for a handshake. ¡°At least he¡¯s not afraid.¡±


    Her markings stop glowing as she shakes hands with the bat.


    ¡°Solomon, was it?¡± He asks with a grin. ¡°You can call me Fulmine.¡±


    Solomon looks him up and down with one thought on her mind in specific. ¡°I¡¯ll have to ask Genesis if Electric Ones could charge my phone. If I can get him to understand what that means, that is¡­¡±


    ¡°Alright then, Fulmine.¡± She says with a little more sass than she intended. ¡°What brought you here?¡±


    ¡°The Radiant One¡¯s order. He wanted to make sure you didn¡¯t try to leave.¡± He leans on the wall as he explains. ¡°Would be a shame if you did.¡± He adds. ¡°What¡¯s that supposed to mean?¡±


    ¡°No, I mean¡­ What made you join the cult?¡± She asks, immediately realising what she said. The bat laughs and steps over to her.


    ¡°Just some friendly advice, kitty.¡± He says with a smile. ¡°Our Lord prefers that you call it a society.¡±


    Solomon feels thoroughly patronised.


    ¡°Unless of course¡­¡± he powers up his magic, arcs of electricity jumping across his arms. ¡°You want to deal with this.¡± He holds up a hand, electricity rapidly jumping between his fingers. He smirks as if to say ¡°Are you impressed yet?¡±


    Solomon feels her hands tingle, annoyance coming from Genesis. She¡¯s curious to see what he has in mind and lets him handle the situation.


    Her markings light up, acid collects in her hands. He puts her hands together, and when he pulls them apart, acid floats in the shape of a bat¡¯s skull between them, tethered to her hands with small tendrils. ¡°Not bad.¡± She senses pride and mischief from him.


    She smirks as if to say ¡°Not impressed.¡±


    The bat¡¯s smile fades as he powers down his magic.


    ¡°Show-off.¡± He remarks, and waves for her to go inside the castle. Genesis disposes of the acid, Solomon takes back control and heads inside.


    She goes through the main hall when she hears her name being uttered by Luxor. She looks over, feeling slightly uneasy. He gestures to her to come over once again, which she does.


    ¡°I have to commend you for not trying to leave the first chance you are given.¡± He remarks with a warm smile. ¡°But I can tell that you are scared.¡± He then stands up. Solomon looks up at the towering fox, feeling more than just scared. ¡°Why did he say that?¡±


    ¡°I am aware that I can be intimidating.¡± He crouches down, his head now in level with hers. Staring into those glowing white eyes feels even creepier up close. ¡°But you need not be afraid. As long as you worship me, I will love and care for you.¡±


    Solomon isn¡¯t sure how to feel about his statement, as it¡¯s her first day here, which she would prefer to be her last.


    ¡°Thank you, Radiant One.¡± She says, trying not to show that she¡¯s, in fact, afraid. The fox then spreads his arms and smiles.


    ¡°Come. Embrace your God.¡±


    Solomon and Genesis both feel apprehensive about it. ¡°If it keeps me from dying¡­¡± She reluctantly takes a step forward and wraps her arms around the fox. His embrace is quite gentle, she could easily break away if she really wanted. It even feels oddly comforting, but she¡¯s certain it¡¯s only because of the light inside him. ¡°And somehow this isn¡¯t the weirdest hug I¡¯ve been a part of today.¡±


    She sees the unmistakable silhouette of Wraps walk through a doorway in her peripheral. She turns her head to look, only to discover that there is no doorway there. To her shock, the thick-clothed person also isn¡¯t there. ¡°Ah, I¡¯m already seeing things. That¡¯s great.¡±


    The fox lets go after a few seconds and smiles at her brightly.


    ¡°From this day onward, you are a friend of God.¡± He says to her, standing back up. ¡°This is your new home, that of purity and light.¡± He puts his hands together and closes his eyes, the light in his eyes still slightly visible at the slits. ¡°Maybe one day, you can go out and retrieve more light for me, along with the others.¡±


    ¡°Thank you, Radiant One.¡± She says, bows, and turns to leave. She cannot wait to be in bed already, ironically enough.


    She notices along the way that people generally seem to avoid walking close to the walls. Not wanting to look like the outsider she is, she does the same. She gets to the room Grayson showed without incident. No one else is inside. She climbs onto the bed and takes out the pen and notebook.


    ¡°Nice one there at the entrance, Genesis.¡± She says with a smile.


    ¡°A simple trick is all it was.¡±


    Solomon gets as comfortable as she can get in that bed and thinks about all that has happened. Her mind wanders and eventually stops at the things she saw Genesis do.


    ¡°These techniques¡­¡± She says, her tail swaying from side to side. ¡°Do you think I could learn them?¡±


    Genesis doesn¡¯t respond for a short while, likely to collect his thoughts.


    ¡°Maybe.¡± Is all he writes at first. ¡°You can normally only have one technique for every mark of magic you have, but it isn¡¯t uncommon to see more than that at all. And then there is me, of course. I created it, therefore I can do many things with it.¡±


    Solomon reads the part regarding ¡°marks¡± of magic over and over again.


    ¡°Why does having magic spliced into you affect the mind so badly?¡± She asks, remembering what she was told at The System HQ.


    ¡°Magic comes from the Eternal Swirl.¡± He scribbles, feeling indifferent. ¡°Having more than one mark of magic inside a person is not natural. A ritual was created, now known as splicing. But as it turns out, nature, and the Swirl, do not like it when people do that. Two different types of magic is all a body can take, a third one overloads the body, causing death. With the same types of magic, the Swirl does not notice. However, it is still unnatural. Magic occupies space in your mind, and when there is too much of it¡­ Bad things can happen.¡±


    Solomon reads in fascination. She is learning so much about magic! And that ¡°Eternal Swirl¡±... She remembers him mentioning it before and blames herself for not asking about it earlier. Although, she definitely had a lot on her mind.


    ¡°And what is this Eternal Swirl, exactly?¡± She asks, eager for an answer.


    ¡°It is beyond our comprehension. I was there numerous times, yet I still know very little about it. All we do know is that it is the origin of magic.¡±


    Just then, Grayson comes through the door, Solomon hides the notebook. Even though he can¡¯t possibly read it, she¡¯d rather not have him question her about the many, many strange symbols in it. Not to mention, if he was a System member, he just might recognise them.


    ¡°Hey Solomon.¡± He says, falling in bed below her, looking tired. ¡°How was your first day?¡± He asks, but doesn¡¯t sound too energetic.


    ¡°As good as any first day in a cult can be.¡± She responds, turning in bed to lie on her stomach. ¡°Do we know how much light Luxor took from Bright Ones?¡± She asks, unable to rid her mind of this one thought.


    ¡°Not how most people start a conversation.¡± The goat remarks and yawns. ¡°When he took mine, he yelled out ¡°seven¡±, so depending on whether or not he was one to begin with¡­ Either seven or eight.¡±


    Solomon and Genesis both feel extremely concerned upon hearing that.


    ¡°How damaged must his mind be from that? Then again, he does think that he¡¯s a God¡­¡±


    ¡°That explains the healing and the lasers.¡± She guesses. ¡°Does anything else come close to it from what you heard at The System?¡±


    Grayson sighs as she asks.


    ¡°I was a low-ranking Bright One stationed at an abandoned amusement park.¡± He says, exasperated. ¡°I don¡¯t know as much as you may think I do. I had a phone, a radio, a partner and not much else.¡±


    ¡°Fair, fair.¡± Says Solomon, then her eyes open wide, remembering her phone. Genesis may not know what a phone is, but the goat certainty does.


    ¡°Do you think an Electric One could charge a phone?¡± She asks, looking over the edge of the bed to face him.


    ¡°Now where¡¯d you get that idea? We don¡¯t have a phone.¡± He states with another yawn.


    Solomon takes out her phone and holds it over him.


    ¡°No way¡­¡± The goat jumps out of bed and looks at her, thrilled. ¡°Solomon, that¡¯s amazing!¡± He exclaims, although softly.


    ¡°Too bad it¡¯s dead. I also haven¡¯t seen any electrical outlets anywhere.¡± She puts it back in her pocket. ¡°Or chargers.¡±


    ¡°Okay, keep it in a safe place, I need to think, hold on!¡± He sits down on the bed, rubbing his temples. ¡°How was it in the training¡­¡± He spends a good few moments, desperately trying to recall what he was told.


    ¡°Yes!¡± He exclaims eventually, Solomon¡¯s eyes light up.


    ¡°It should be possible. Although it¡¯s a very precise procedure.¡± He stands up and starts pacing anxiously. ¡°But how would you get that bat to do that for you? And even if you do, there¡¯s no guarantee that there¡¯s even reception here!¡±


    ¡°Oh, trust me.¡± Says Solomon, sitting up on the bed. ¡°I can be very persuasive.¡± Genesis feels a sense of familiarity regarding that sentence. As she says that, the lantern in the room goes out, or at least becomes so dim that it no longer emits much light.


    ¡°What does that mean then?¡± She asks, glancing curiously at the lantern.


    ¡°That you shouldn¡¯t cause too much noise. On the list of things Luxor hates, getting woken up at night is a close second to non-believers.¡± Says the goat, lying back down on the bed.


    ¡°What is with these lanterns anyway?¡± Solomon can¡¯t help but ask.


    ¡°Luxor made them.¡± Grayson explains. ¡°He made them using his light. He uses them to, well, light the castle. Also provides a little warmth. He can use them to signal to us too.¡±


    Solomon nods as he tells her what they are for. ¡°The power of seven or eight Bright Ones¡­ I don''t like the sound of that.¡±


    The door then opens again. It¡¯s their roommate, the sheep. The cat glances at him, she can tell that he¡¯s even shorter than she is, not a threat in the slightest.


    ¡°Evening.¡± He says before going to bed. He glances at Solomon, but doesn¡¯t seem to think much of her.


    ¡°How could I get him to charge it¡­¡± Solomon has a couple ideas, but doesn¡¯t like any of them enough to actually try them. ¡°I¡¯ll try asking Genesis tomorrow. If he really is as powerful as he says¡­ I¡¯m sure he can figure something out if I can¡¯t.¡±

 Chapter 19 - Zenith

    Solomon is woken up by Grayson after having a surprisingly good night¡¯s sleep. The lack of a dark figure chasing her in her dreams certainly made it better, she can only imagine how well she¡¯ll sleep once she¡¯s home.


    ¡°Alright already¡­¡± She says, sitting up in the bed. ¡°I¡¯m awake, what is it?¡±


    ¡°Solomon, it¡¯s close to noon.¡± The goat states. ¡°You¡¯ve already slept through breakfast.¡± The cat¡¯s eyes widen as checks her watch to confirm. ¡°Slept a little too well¡­¡± She¡¯s heard about how some cats can sleep for up to fourteen hours a day or even longer, but she never could imagine doing that herself.


    She quickly gets out of bed and follows the goat through the halls of the castle.


    ¡°By the way, the showers are cleaned every single day. Sometimes twice.¡± Grayson informs the cat. ¡°The main halls were cleaned overnight to not bother people during the day.¡± Solomon¡¯s almost impressed by the lengths the fox goes to keep the castle clean. She takes out the map, her eyes are drawn to the lounges.


    ¡°Why don¡¯t we go there?¡± She shows the map to the goat, holding a finger over where the lounges are.


    ¡°It¡¯s nothing special, really.¡± Says Grayson after glancing at the map. ¡°But it¡¯s about the best place if you want to get to know some people here.¡± Solomon considers that. It sounds like the opposite of what she wants to do, she has no interest in forming any kind of bond with these people. Not after seeing them as an angry mob.


    ¡°Sheila¡­¡± Her mind wanders to the lioness. ¡°I¡¯ll make this right. Just you wait.¡± In reality, she owes nothing to her or the organisation she¡¯s with, but she still feels like she can¡¯t just leave her in a place like this.


    ¡°Yeah, let¡¯s not go there then.¡± She says, looking down at the map. Grayson stops to answer a question asked by another cultist as Solomon walks on, oblivious. All of a sudden, she bumps into Wraps, who she didn¡¯t even notice.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry!¡± She exclaims, looking up at the taller person. Their eyes may be covered, but she can tell they¡¯re looking straight at her. After a short pause, they walk on without a word. ¡°Can you even speak?¡± She views this person the worst in the castle for one reason: she has no idea who it is or what their motives are. She can tell quite easily all of that when it comes to Luxor, but Wraps on the other hand¡­ They could be here for any reason. She briefly considers just asking them directly, but that thought is quickly discarded.


    She takes a look at the map again, only for a few seconds before turning back to Grayson, who is still talking to that one person. Wraps is nowhere to be seen now, which Solomon finds quite concerning. She waits for the goat to finish the conversation, which was apparently about the whereabouts of a broom. The two then agree to go to the library, as it¡¯s a place Solomon is already familiar and somewhat comfortable with.


    There are even more people at the library than there were the day before, about half of the entire cult from what Solomon can tell. Each desk and chair is occupied, with the exception of the bean bags once again. They haven¡¯t even been moved from the way she left them. Out of curiosity Solomon takes one of the few books labelled as ¡°Truth¡±. The cover of it is completely white.


    ¡°I don¡¯t think you¡¯ll like that one.¡± Grayson remarks. Now the cat is even more intrigued.


    She opens the book on the first page. She can tell that it was all written in upper case with a typewriter, reading the following: ¡°I WAS CHOSEN BY A HIGHER POWER TO BE YOUR GOD. YOUR BELIEF IN ME IS JUSTIFIED. NOW HARK, FOR YOU SHALL KNOW THE TALE OF A TRUE GOD IN THIS REALM. ONE THAT OF POWER, LIGHT, AND THE DEATH OF BLASPHEMERS.¡± Solomon closes the book and puts it back, feeling like she has read enough. That¡¯s one tale that can wait, in her opinion, doubting that it¡¯s even true in the first place, as it¡¯s definitely written by Luxor.


    ¡°Told you.¡± The goat says with a smile, crossing his arms.


    ¡°Grayson!¡± Says a coyote as he rushes over to the goat, which seems to annoy the people trying to read.


    ¡°Yes?¡± Grayson turns to face him with a mix of confusion and slight fear in his expression.


    ¡°His Radiance requests an audience with you.¡± The coyote states as he grabs the goat by the wrist, practically dragging him out of the library. He gives Solomon a reassuring look as he leaves.


    She nods and smiles at him.


    ¡°What could he possibly want from him? I hope he¡¯ll be safe.¡± She turns to have a look through the books that are not labelled as ¡°Truth¡±. She finds a surprising number of romance novels, none of which actually interest her, Genesis finds them even less noteworthy, apparently. She decides to just go sit down at the bean bag corner and talk to the ancient feline. She¡¯d much rather talk to him than any cultist, as long as he doesn¡¯t have another outburst.


    She sits down on the stack of bean bags and takes out her notebook, looking down at her hands.


    ¡°How do you think I can get that bat to charge my phone?¡± She asks, putting one hand on her pocket, touching the phone so he knows what she means. She lets him take over, a hand over the phone. He goes to write right after.


    ¡°I presume these devices need the power of lightning to function?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s one way to describe it, yes.¡± She looks around as he uses her hand to write and sees the electric bat enter the library. He spots her after a quick look around and heads in her direction. ¡°Terrific.¡±


    She interrupts Genesis and puts away the notebook.


    ¡°Solomon!¡± He says jovially with outstretched arms. The cat rolls her eyes. Fulmine goes to sit down on a bean bag, only to sink into it, almost falling off of it. ¡°I can really see why people don¡¯t use these.¡±


    ¡°What is it?¡± She asks, smiling at what just happened.


    ¡°Just thought I¡¯d check on you.¡± He chuckles as he puts his hands behind his head, acting as if that¡¯s exactly what he intended to do all along. ¡°A small feline such as yourself in such a place¡­ Don¡¯t you want someone strong by your side?¡± He asks, his eyes meeting hers. Solomon can hear a touch of Italian in his accent.


    Genesis feels quite annoyed at his statement. ¡°Oh, if only you knew. You wouldn¡¯t be saying that then.¡±


    ¡°I can handle myself.¡± She states, showing off her markings. ¡°These hands are acidic.¡± The bat looks delightfully surprised.


    ¡°Well, aren¡¯t you scary.¡± He remarks with a smirk, which Solomon doesn¡¯t like. At all. ¡°Let me show you something!¡± He sits up as best as he can on the bean bag. Solomon rolls her eyes again.


    ¡°Get on with it.¡± She says dismissively.


    The bat powers up his magic and puts the tips of his index fingers and thumbs together, forming a triangle. Solomon raises an eyebrow at this. ¡°What is he up to now?¡±


    As electricity jumps around his arms, he pulls his hands apart, leaving the shape of a triangle floating in the air, tethered to his hands by arcs. Solomon can¡¯t help but feel a little admiration, which she shows in her expression.


    ¡°Not bad.¡± She says, albeit in a dismissive tone.


    ¡°I can do other shapes.¡± Fulmine shifts his fingers, the triangle turns into a circle, then a square. Solomon doesn¡¯t feel too impressed anymore. He then shifts his fingers one more time, the square turning into the shape of a heart, which catches her off guard. The bat smiles and winks at her before powering down his magic. Solomon feels her hands tingle.


    ¡°Pretty nice trick, now watch this!¡± Excited to see what Genesis came up with this time, she lets him take over. He makes her hand into a fist, holds it out, and to her surprise, raises a middle finger. She feels tremendous joy from Genesis as the bat¡¯s smile fades a little. ¡°How does he even know what that means?¡±


    ¡°Tough crowd, eh?¡± He remarks, crossing his arms. Solomon puts her hands in her pockets, she is certain that if he could, Genesis would still be laughing, judging by how emotions.


    ¡°I also don¡¯t believe you answered my question.¡± Says Solomon. ¡°What brought you to this society then?¡±


    ¡°I had some heart problems, heard I could have it fixed easily here. Came for the healing, stayed for the ladies.¡± Fulmine says with a laugh.


    Solomon is about to comment on his behaviour when the lanterns start to shine bright, just like they did when she climbed into that bastion. The people begin to leave the library without a word.


    ¡°Oh, you do not want to miss this.¡± The bat says as he stands up. ¡°Come, it¡¯ll be in the hall.¡± He gestures to her to follow.


    ¡°What¡¯ll be in the-¡± She begins to say.


    ¡°Just be there, or Our Lord will be angry with you.¡± He says and smiles cordially. ¡°And you don¡¯t want that, I tell you.¡±


    Solomon gives in and follows him.


    ¡°Don¡¯t want to get lost now!¡± He remarks, holding out a hand, expecting her to take it.


    ¡°I have a map, you know.¡± She retorts, briefly taking it out of her pocket. Fulmine shrugs as if to say ¡°your loss¡±.


    The two of them walk side by side all the way to the main hall, the tables have been pushed to the sides to make more room for the large gathering of people, it feels like there¡¯s even more than Solomon saw before. Luxor is nowhere to be seen.


    ¡°Fulmine!¡± A familiar voice shouts. They look in the direction to see an upset-looking Haemon heading towards them. Solomon is somewhat relieved to see that he isn¡¯t so mad at her.


    ¡°Could you please show me some respect¡­¡± Says the sanguine bat. ¡°And not do your antics with the woman who almost killed me?¡±


    Said woman tries her best to hide her smile.


    ¡°Give me a break, Haemon.¡± Fulmine says with a slight frown. ¡°I made an exception with your sister, who this kitty isn¡¯t.¡±


    Haemon grabs him by the collar and drags him away into the mass of people, muttering under his breath. Fulmine looks back and winks at Solomon. ¡°These people, I swear¡­¡± Genesis apparently finds what just happened entertaining.


    She looks down at the gathering and heads inside as well, not sure what to expect. She spots Grayson at the other side of the hall and heads towards him, only for the entire hall to turn dead silent, everyone looking up at the catwalk. It has no barrier to protect from falling down. Upon the catwalk stands the white fox, not saying anything. Rather, he takes off his robe and walks to the edge. ¡°What is he doing?¡±


    He holds his arms apart, palms facing up, and closes his eyes, so do the people in the hall. Some only open their robes, others take it off entirely. The fox then begins to shine, illuminating the entire hall. Solomon feels terribly confused at first, but understands it all when the light hits her. She opens her robe to take in the light, spreading her arms and closing her eyes as well. And his light¡­ His light is utter bliss, the purest form of happiness. As if all the evils of the world are nothing but an illusion, the feeling of complete perfection courses through Solomon¡¯s body. This light, HIS light¡­ It is enthralling, overwhelming, entirely ineffable. Solomon feels like she could take in this light forever, such a beautiful feeling should be experienced by everyone, not just some cult in a castle¡­ But she cares not for that. She is here to experience it, and it is the epitome of euphoria.


    If you discover this narrative on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen. Please report the violation.


    And that¡¯s when she feels a hand slap her across the face. She opens her eyes to look who dared to interrupt her happiness, but no one even seems to have taken notice of it. She feels her hands tingle, if Genesis could speak, she is sure he would be shouting. ¡°Did he do it? But I didn¡¯t let him take over¡­ Was I so out of it?¡± She lets him take over her hands. He closes her robes and puts her hood on to shield her from the light. He then tries to get her to turn around, which she obliges. ¡°That feeling of bliss¡­ Why doesn¡¯t he want me to experience it?¡± She spots three of the bats, all standing with outstretched arms. Wraps is nowhere to be seen.


    She stands and waits there, the temptation to take in his light growing greater and greater. After more than a few minutes, she sees that his light is no longer shining, the lanterns also return to their original brightness. She turns around, pretending to have taken in his light. The people around her come to and those who shed their robes put it back on. So does the fox before leaving the catwalk through a door entirely too short for him to go through without bending down. Solomon immediately heads to Grayson as the majority of the crowd leaves.


    ¡°What was that?¡± She asks, feeling a bit panicked.


    ¡°Amazing isn¡¯t it? To think that he can do that¡­¡± Solomon gently shakes the goat, his expression turns surprised.


    ¡°Grayson, explain to me right now what that was. Why didn¡¯t you tell me about it?¡± She demands, scowling at him.


    ¡°He does this every day at noon. I was going to tell you at the library when I was called.¡± He responds, gesturing for her to keep quiet.


    ¡°Do you have any idea how I felt when I saw these people do¡­  That?¡± She says, louder than the goat would like. ¡°What was that?¡±


    Grayson looks more and more panicked.


    ¡°Solomon, this really isn¡¯t the time¡­¡± He says in a fearful tone, looking at her. No¡­ Looking past her.


    Just then, Solomon feels a hand touch her shoulder. A white hand. She whips around and comes face to face with Luxor, who has a blank expression. She immediately quiets down.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, Radiant¡­¡± She begins.


    ¡°It is understandable to have questions. You are new here, after all.¡± The fox says with a smile, then looks at Grayson. ¡°I expected you to have told her already, but I do not fault you for your mistake. She shall get to know about it, after all.¡±


    Solomon then, almost on instinct, takes the fox¡¯s hand in hers, looking into his white, glowing eyes.


    ¡°Please, Radiant One¡­ Clear up my confusion.¡± She says in a lowly voice, which she hopes sounds convincing enough.


    ¡°Of course.¡± Luxor responds, leading her around the hall by the hand as he explains.


    ¡°This is my gift for my believers. I started with giving them only one minute of my light. Then one more for every piece of stolen light we reclaimed. Now, my believers receive eight minutes of my pristine light every day.¡± People have gathered around them, eager to hear his voice. ¡°It is my way of repaying their loyalty to me.¡± He looks down at Solomon and crouches down to be on her level. ¡°Does that explain your question?¡±


    Solomon nods in acceptance.


    ¡°I apologise for my outburst, My Lord.¡± She says, trying to look and sound as humble as she can.


    The fox smiles and spreads his arms, expecting an embrace, which Solomon gives him. She then steps away from him as many others go to embrace their God. ¡°Fake or not, he knows how to influence people. Eight marks of light¡­ No wonder his mind is the way it is. If Genesis doesn¡¯t want me to accept this ¡°gift¡± of his, I won¡¯t.¡±


    As Solomon goes to leave, she spots the bat with the silver and grey markings. Now that she takes a good look at her, she resembles Haemon in some ways. Same nose and ear size, build¡­ She has to be his sister, now that she knows that he has one.


    The bat then quickly glances at her, which causes Solomon to look away. In her peripheral, she sees her approach.


    ¡°What are you looking at?¡± The bat asks in a rather unfriendly tone.


    ¡°I was just wondering¡­¡± Solomon says, facing her. ¡°Are you Haemon¡¯s sister?¡± She asks, trying not to look scared.


    ¡°I am. What of it?¡± She responds, tilting her head. Solomon can¡¯t help but look at the bat¡¯s markings.


    ¡°What¡¯s your name?¡± She asks in the most respectful voice she can manage.


    ¡°I¡¯m not telling YOU of all people! You almost killed my brother!¡± The bat sounds insulted by the mere thought of it.


    ¡°Oh, I¡¯m sorry!¡± Solomon says indignantly. ¡°The next time I get stabbed, I¡¯ll say ¡°Please and thank you¡± and ask for another!¡±


    The bat seems like she wants to say something, but stops herself from doing so as she turns to leave. The cat wonders what those markings could be when put together.


    ¡°Genesis.¡± Solomon mutters. ¡°What do those combine into?¡± She asks quietly as she takes out her notebook. Genesis writes many symbols, which turn into one word made up of only four letters: rust. Evidently, he did not have a simple word for it.


    ¡°Rust? Metal and wind¡­ Well then.¡± A thought lingers in her mind, a shot in the dark, but she feels like she has to try.


    ¡°Rufina?¡± She asks after taking a few steps to follow the bat. She stops in her tracks and looks back at Solomon in complete bewilderment.


    ¡°How did you¡­¡± She begins to say before she quickly shakes her head. ¡°I need to talk to you. In private.¡± She gestures to her to follow. ¡°So this is Rufina¡­ If that really is rust, then no wonder it¡¯s a sore spot for Ludwig.¡¯


    Solomon is led to one of the towers, or ¡°Study Rooms¡± as they are labelled on the map, feeling a sense of apprehension from Genesis. Rufina eyes her suspiciously along the way. When they arrive there, the bat opens the door and checks inside. She then gestures to her to come in.


    As she enters, the door behind her is closed, followed by Rufina grabbing her by the throat and slamming her against the door.


    ¡°He sent you after me, didn¡¯t he?¡± The bat demands, with an outraged look in her eyes.


    ¡°What do you¡­ Mean?¡± Solomon manages to say with great effort, grasping at the bat¡¯s hand. She could use her magic on her, but it would cause her more trouble than good in the end, it most likely wouldn¡¯t exactly convince Rufina that she¡¯s not here for her.


    ¡°Don¡¯t act like you don¡¯t know!¡± Rufina¡¯s grip tightens. ¡°That would-be heap of scrap sent you to take me and my brother out!¡± Solomon wants to answer, but can¡¯t say a single word because of her grasp. Her vision is getting blurry. She needs help, his help.


    She lets Genesis take over, who punches the bat in the face immediately, catching not just Rufina, but Solomon by surprise as well.


    ¡°Calm down!¡± She yells, holding out her hands threateningly. ¡°Are you talking about Ludwig?¡±


    ¡°I knew it!¡± Rufina shouts, baring her claws. ¡°If Our Lord learns what you are¡­ You¡¯re finished, Acid One.¡± She doesn¡¯t even look surprised about the fact that The System acquired such a power.


    ¡°You were with them once, weren¡¯t you?¡± Solomon asks, her mind racing. ¡°Ludwig is True Metal, and you¡¯re rust¡­ No doubt he had problems with that.¡±


    ¡°He was afraid!¡± Rufina exclaims, furious. ¡°After we saw the life we could have, away from him and his monstrous, metal facility¡­ He sent YOU!¡±


    Solomon feels decidedly in the wrong, she may not have been told to take her and her brother out specifically, but if she had the lack of morals, those two would have been part of the death toll.


    ¡°Just listen to me!¡± Says Solomon, grabbing the bat by the shoulder as she tries to make a run for it. ¡°Don¡¯t you see? All it would take to kill you is to power up my acid.¡± Says the cat, trying her hardest to keep her at bay. ¡°I¡¯m not here to hurt you! I¡¯m not here for any of you!¡±


    Rufina seems to stop struggling and clams down slightly, although she does shove Solomon away.


    ¡°Fine, I¡¯ll listen¡­ But you better have a good explanation.¡±


    Solomon recounts everything that has happened during her time at The System, including her plan to fake her death to escape, which didn¡¯t go well at all. Rufina listens to her, but judging by her look, she isn¡¯t convinced.


    ¡°So you were sent here¡­ But now you want to leave so bad?¡± The bat says, incredulously. ¡°And I¡¯m supposed to believe that?¡±


    Solomon sighs as an idea crosses her mind. ¡°Look¡­ I could give you protection from acid and fire.¡± She states, pulling on her robe. Genesis seems to understand the notion.


    ¡°Oh please.¡± Rufina rolls her eyes. ¡°Such a thing doesn¡¯t exist.¡± She then looks at Solomon, awestruck at the fact that the acid she produces from her hands is not burning through her robe. It falls to the floor and turns to a harmless, black liquid.


    ¡°That¡¯s your robe. Of course it¡¯s unaffected.¡± Says the bat, as if she¡¯s starting to question if she¡¯s right about the cat.


    Annoyed, Solomon goes over to a desk and takes out the first thing she finds: a pencil. She infuses it in front of Rufina and then attempts to melt it, which doesn¡¯t happen, of course. The bat looks like she¡¯s having second thoughts on that offer.


    ¡°I understand how you feel, but trust me. I¡¯m not here to hurt you. I just want Ludwig to believe I¡¯m dead so I can leave. Otherwise, he¡¯ll just try and find me again.¡± She takes a tentative step towards the bat, reaching for her shoulders. Rufina still looks unsure of whether or not she should trust her.


    ¡°You know what?¡± She says eventually. ¡°Let¡¯s see. But if you kill me¡­ Haemon will inflict the pain you do to me tenfold.¡± She then allows her to touch her shoulder.


    Genesis takes over, wasting no time with it. Her markings light up, which makes Rufina look quite nervous, but no acid comes out. It takes a few minutes, but once Rufina starts glowing green slightly, Genesis removes Solomon¡¯s hands from the bat.


    ¡°We should be done¡­¡± She says, looking at her hands. Genesis gives her a thumbs up. ¡°Yes. we are done.¡± Solomon adds. The bat doesn¡¯t question that she apparently just talked to her hands.


    ¡°So? That¡¯s it?¡± Rufina questions.


    ¡°Yes. Let me show you.¡± She then puts one hand on her shoulder and powers up her magic. The acid safely rolls down the bat¡¯s arm, just like how it would off of her own. ¡°Amazing¡­ Genesis, you are truly something else.¡± She may not have liked his attitude at first, but she trusts the ancient scholar more and more.


    One drop of acid lands on her shirt and leaves a burn mark, which startles them both.


    ¡°Sorry!¡± Solomon apologises. ¡°I should have done it to your clothes as well¡­¡±


    Rufina hardly seems to mind as she looks at herself. Nothing changed about her appearance, the green glow is gone as well.


    ¡°So you are telling the truth¡­¡± She steps towards one of the desks, pulls out a chair and sits down. ¡°But tell me, why don¡¯t you stay? It¡¯s a simple, good life here, as long as you worship.¡±


    Solomon sits down on a desk close to Rufina. Now she pities the bat, Luxor¡¯s ways to keep his worshippers are clearly working on her.


    ¡°I want a normal life. This is a cult. You are worshipping a madman. Do you really, truly believe that he¡¯s a God?¡± She questions in a quiet voice to make sure only the bat hears it.


    ¡°You are marked by magic, I doubt you can live a normal life anyway.¡± Rufina remarks, which doesn¡¯t make Solomon feel any better. Her expression turns rather sombre. ¡°As for him being a God¡­ Of course I don¡¯t believe that.¡± She pauses, Solomon feels more than a little taken aback by what she said.


    ¡°But he might as well be a God for us.¡± She continues. ¡°When Haemon and I were members of Ludwig¡¯s overgrown mafia, I had¡­¡± She sighs and shakes her head. ¡°Because of my power of rust, I kept the old man in check, making sure that he doesn¡¯t do anything drastic. However¡­ Let¡¯s just say that I had a terrible illness. Ludwig couldn¡¯t care less about it, always finding an excuse to not have me treated. I refused to give up my power. I knew, I just knew that it would go straight to one of his puppets who wouldn¡¯t do anything about it. Haemon had enough one day, so he took me and we left. We went to hospitals, but when they saw my markings, I was refused treatment. I only hope that he no longer has that deal with the medical field¡­¡±


    Solomon looks at her with pity as she recounts her experience. ¡°That¡¯s terrible¡­¡±


    ¡°After that, Haemon met Fulmine. Even then, he was a sleazy womaniser and every time he spoke I wished I was deaf, but he and my brother hit it off. After Fulmine was told about my condition, he took us here. Luxor gave us a simple offer: stay here and worship him as a God, and I would not only be cured, but we would also be allowed all of his society¡¯s benefits. It was an easy choice after what we went through.¡±


    Solomon can hardly believe what Rufina just said. Judging by his anger, Genesis wouldn¡¯t put it past Ludwig to do that.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry you had to go through all of that.¡± She says with drooping ears.


    ¡°We¡¯ve managed.¡± Says the bat. ¡°Most of the society is here for similar reasons, Luxor promised to cure their illnesses in exchange for worship. Be it sight, hearing, broken or missing limbs, illnesses, he can heal just about anything. And this is as good as life has ever been for us. Sure, there¡¯s the odd murder, but I would do much more for this life. And if you want out¡­ I guess I¡¯ll try to think of a way.¡±


    Solomon¡¯s ears perk up.


    ¡°Can¡¯t say the same for the others though. My brother hates you like nothing else ever since you splashed him with your acid or whatever it was that you did to him.¡±


    ¡°I was defending myself!¡± Solomon speaks up, slightly annoyed.


    ¡°That doesn¡¯t matter to him. You can be glad you didn¡¯t do that to me, or you¡¯d be dead already. Nothing you can do will change his mind.¡±


    She opens the desk drawer and takes out a pencil to fiddle with.


    ¡°As for Fulmine¡­ Well he has his eyes on you.¡±


    Solomon rolls her eyes.


    ¡°I can tell¡­¡± She remarks with a frown.


    ¡°He¡¯d rather not have his new desired consort just leave. I recommend you frighten him a little with that power of yours, that¡¯ll get through his thick skull.¡±


    Solomon is quite repulsed at the thought. Consort¡­ She¡¯d never stoop so low in her life. She also senses an indescribable awkwardness from Genesis.


    ¡°And what about¡­¡± She begins to say, wanting to ask about Wraps, but she suddenly hears rushing footsteps. They both look at the door as it swings open, revealing a bird with a hooked beak alongside two others who Solomon is pretty sure are canines.


    ¡°We heard the sounds of a fight.¡± The bird says in a concerned tone.


    ¡°Yes, we had a brief disagreement.¡± Rufina replies. ¡°But it¡¯s all good now.¡± She stands up. ¡°In fact, we were about to leave.¡± She glances at Solomon with a trusting expression.


    ¡°That¡¯s right.¡± Says the cat, playing along and standing up. One of the canines instinctively cleans up the black liquid on the floor.


    Four of them leave the tower, one of the canines stays. ¡°That¡¯s one more possible ally then. Thank you, Rufina.¡±

 Chapter 20 - Breakthrough

    Solomon follows the three others down the stairs and the group eventually breaks apart. The bird and the canine, likely a dingo now that Solomon gets a better look at him, sit down at one of the tables in the main hall and begin playing with dice. She sees Haemon and Fulmine argue about something at the other side of the hall. Rufina nods at her and walks over to the two of them.


    Solomon now notices that even Luxor is busy playing a board game with five others. Someone is sitting close to them to provide live music with a violin. ¡°Alright, that¡¯s kind of¡­¡± Before she could find the right word to finish that thought, Wraps brushes past her, not bothering to look at her. This time, she follows the person with her gaze for a few, long moments. ¡°Can¡¯t escape me this time¡­¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s up, Solomon?¡± Says Fulmine who has apparently walked up to her from the other side of the hall. She gives the bat a surprised look before looking back at Wraps, who has disappeared. ¡°Damnit.¡±


    ¡°What do you want?¡± She asks, feeling a little peeved. Genesis feels more than just a little peeved at his presence.


    ¡°Any plans for the night?¡± Fulmine asks bluntly, confident as ever, as he leans against the wall. Solomon wants to let Genesis just have at him at this point. ¡°Maybe I should take Rufina¡¯s advice. Although¡­¡± Rufina could help her leave, Fulmine could help her contact her friends. She isn¡¯t making it out of this forest by herself, and if she gets spotted on her way out, it¡¯s over.


    ¡°Actually, none.¡± She responds, crossing her arms and smirking at him. ¡°Not yet anyway.¡± She can practically see his eyes shine with hope.


    ¡°Why I could arrange something for the two of us.¡± He says, waggling his eyebrows. ¡°How can someone be so bad at this?¡±


    Solomon holds out a hand in response, the bat quickly takes it, without much thinking. She pulls him closer to herself, faking a longing look.


    ¡°Maybe you could show me this ¡°Hall of Pleasure¡± you have.¡± The statement alone is enough to make the bat extremely excited and Genesis sick.


    ¡°And I thought you would be hard to get!¡± He exclaims. ¡°Feels so good to be wrong.¡± He reaches for her face and gently caresses it. Solomon wonders if this is even worth it. According to Genesis, it isn¡¯t.


    ¡°Meet me here tonight! I¡¯ll show you how magical I can be!¡± She says, Genesis seems to disapprove of the pun. ¡°Think about the charge you¡¯ll receive, Solomon.¡±


    ¡°Oh, you got it!¡± The bat then snaps his fingers and walks off, completely oblivious to the fact that his last attempt was entirely unsuccessful. Solomon is certain she can hear him mutter ¡°score¡± as he¡¯s walking away. ¡°Yeah, there¡¯s not a chance.¡± She already has ideas on how she¡¯ll avoid anything with him. ¡°Soon, I¡¯ll be free. They¡¯ll think I¡¯m dead, and I can get my friends to help, possibly.¡±


    Pleased with her plan, Solomon spends most of the day at the library. She decides to have a little read into one of the romance novels, where she finds what sources Fulmine likely used to obtain some of his ¡°skills¡±. She puts it down, not even ten pages in. She tries a short fantasy book instead, barely 150 pages. It has her hooked, but the ending ruins it all for her. ¡°Nobody would let the villain live there.¡±


    She decides to talk to Genesis a little, millenia-old or not, she still finds him more agreeable than Fulmine or Haemon. Although Haemon, she can understand. She did spray him with acid, even if it was in self-defence.


    ¡°So, what do you want to do when we get out?¡± She whispers.


    ¡°I will think about that when we are out.¡± He responds, Solomon takes notice of the awkward feeling coming from him.


    ¡°You are not actually going through with¡­ That, right?¡± He writes, feeling concerned.


    ¡°Of course not.¡± Solomon responds with a slight shudder at the thought. Although, she now has brief thoughts about how Genesis¡¯ presence may affect her personal life in the future. She really wishes that she didn¡¯t have these thoughts, ever. ¡°Don¡¯t worry, I have a plan. And if it doesn¡¯t work, well that¡¯s one less creep who can¡¯t take a hint.¡± Genesis feels amused by the idea. ¡°If something goes south, I¡¯ll call on you to fix it.¡±


    ¡°Understood.¡± Genesis writes, feeling a little better.


    ¡°I have my eyes on someone else anyway¡­¡± Solomon adds, leaning back in the stack of bean bags, really wanting to talk about her feelings to someone. An age-old entity who only she can talk to at the moment feels as good as it gets in her situation, which she finds kind of sad. Genesis picks up on her stirred feelings.


    ¡°I can listen.¡± He writes before Solomon could say anything. ¡°You gave me a voice, I will do my best to keep us both alive and well.¡±


    Solomon smiles as she reads.


    ¡°That¡¯s so nice of you¡­¡± She looks down at her hands, her spirals no longer mocking, but rather, encouraging. ¡°And to be honest¡­ I just want to be with her. The Electric One who was actually meant for me. Lisa¡­¡±


    Solomon has been thinking about her more and more lately, especially before sleep. She feels like she lied to Thalia about how she felt about the wolf, but that¡¯s how she felt back then. Just a friend, a very, very close friend. Something about her has grown on her so much after the incident, however, something she can¡¯t quite put a finger on.


    She senses a warm awkwardness from Genesis.


    ¡°I lived thousands of years before you, I do not think I can comment on that.¡± He responds, which makes the cat chuckle.


    ¡°Yeah, I guess that¡¯s true. Plus, her ex is a powerful Dark One. Until I can leave, I¡¯m sure she¡¯ll take care of her.¡± She pauses for a moment to collect her thoughts. ¡°I can¡¯t wait to get out of here¡­ I wish I didn¡¯t need that bat for it.¡± The thought makes her terribly uncomfortable, but she has no real intention of doing anything with him. As long as he doesn¡¯t know that, however, he will play right into her hands.


    She waits in the library until nighttime, also having a meal before she could enact her plan. Once the lanterns are off, she prepares herself mentally and heads down to the main hall without seeing anyone on the way. She passes by the room where Luxor first brought her. Against Genesis¡¯ wishes, she takes a peek inside and sees the fox peacefully sleeping, his long legs partially hanging off the end of the bed. She can tell that his eyes are not shining behind his closed eyelids. She quietly shuts the door and leaves.


    At the main hall, Fulmine is waiting, sitting on the stairs of the podium.


    ¡°Kept me waiting for pretty long.¡± He teases and stands up, holding out his hand. ¡°So, shall we?¡± Solomon feels slightly nervous, but not because of him, more because of how he¡¯ll react.


    ¡°Actually¡­ Would you mind if we just went outside?¡± She suggests.


    ¡°Oho!¡± The bat reacts immediately, clearly not opposed to the idea. ¡°How romantic.¡±


    Solomon feels nothing romantic about that, but she¡¯s not here to question him.


    They go to the main entrance, Solomon stops in front of it, expecting him to open it for her. It takes him a few seconds, but he picks up on it eventually and opens the door. They go outside, Solomon leads him off to the side of the river. Even the fishermen are asleep inside the castle. ¡°Step one done. But what if he¡­¡±


    ¡°Nice little clearing you found.¡± He says, his grin turning to a smirk. ¡°Great choice.¡±


    ¡°Nevermind.¡± Solomon feels incredulous at his lack of caring for his safety, given that he knows what she can do. The bat is already taking off his shirt when Solomon stops him.


    ¡°Hold on now, you¡¯ll need to impress me first.¡± She remarks, taking a step towards him. ¡°You big, strong, electric bat.¡± She adds, which he seems to like.


    ¡°That should be easy.¡± He exclaims cockily, powering up his magic. ¡°Watch this.¡± He aims his hands at a nearby tree. His markings light up, electricity shoots out of his hands. Solomon recoils, fearing that someone either heard or saw that. The tree is mostly unharmed, other than burn marks on the bark. ¡°He could have lit the forest on fire!¡±


    ¡°Anyone with such power could do that.¡± She remarks, which surprises the bat. ¡°Brute strength is nothing compared to precision.¡±


    ¡°Oh, I could listen to you all night.¡± Says the bat, Solomon finds what he said amazing in all the wrong ways. ¡°Your accent really adds a lot to your appeal, you know.¡±


    The cat now feels upset with him having taken the conversation in such a different direction. She also feels rather self-conscious about her accent all of a sudden.


    ¡°Je t¡¯emmerde.¡± She says, faking an endearing smile.


    The tale has been stolen; if detected on Amazon, report the violation.


    ¡°Ah, the language of love!¡± Fulmine exclaims. ¡°Beautiful.¡±


    ¡°You can be precise, can¡¯t you?¡± She dismisses what he said, somewhat annoyed.


    ¡°Oh, you bet! As precise as it gets!¡± He announces. ¡°Alright. Here goes nothing.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t suppose you can¡­¡± She pulls out the phone from her pocket. ¡°Charge this?¡± She feels nervous, hoping that the bat won¡¯t immediately go to rat her out.


    Fulmine takes a step back in surprise. Solomon prepares to give Genesis a signal.


    ¡°Where¡¯d you get that?¡± He questions her, then waves dismissively. ¡°Whatever, it¡¯s not like you¡¯ll get any reception here anyway.¡± He shrugs and takes the phone from her. ¡°No way this is actually working. There¡¯s no way.¡±


    ¡°If you¡¯re looking for skill, you¡¯ve come to the right man.¡± He holds one finger over the charging port and powers up his magic. Solomon doesn¡¯t like how the electricity is visibly going around the phone as well, but she doesn¡¯t mind as long as it works. After a few seconds, he tries to turn it on. The screen lights up, Solomon feels like she could cry. ¡°It¡¯s working!¡±


    ¡°Would you look at that?¡± He turns the screen towards the cat. ¡°Five percent already. Impressive, aren¡¯t I?¡± He says, looking extremely proud of himself.


    Solomon nods vigorously.


    ¡°Whatever gets you going, kitty.¡± He goes back to charging the phone, looking into her eyes. If he wasn¡¯t doing this just to have a chance with her, she¡¯d feel bad for what¡¯s coming to him. ¡°Twenty. I¡¯d say that¡¯s good.¡±


    Solomon feels a sense of panic, not just her own but Genesis¡¯ as well, more as a reaction to her panic, she guesses.


    She shakes her head.


    ¡°Can you do more?¡± She asks, putting her hands together and blinking twice with a friendly smile.


    The bat seems to be getting quite fed up with it.


    ¡°I don¡¯t know about that, this feels like a very one-sided deal so far. Hardly a good date if you ask me.¡± He powers down his magic, which worries Solomon.


    ¡°Hey, if you do this for me¡­¡± She says as she walks over to the bat and takes his hand. ¡°I¡¯m yours. It is an impressive feat of your magic!¡±


    That seems to do it. Fulmine smiles and goes back to charging. ¡°Not very bright for a Lightborn.¡±


    ¡°I have to say, Solomon¡­¡± He says as he sits down on a nearby log. ¡°You are one very nice girl. The best I¡¯ve seen in a while.¡±


    Solomon would feel flattered, but coming from him, she just can¡¯t take it seriously.


    ¡°I¡¯m so very happy to have met you, despite our shortcomings.¡± He smiles. It isn¡¯t a lustful smile, but a genuine, happy smile. ¡°Looking into your eyes, I can see the interest. The willingness. And that¡¯s better than anything.¡±


    Solomon feels conflicted about the things he said. She also wonders how he could possibly see those in her eyes. Even so, it just doesn¡¯t sound like the Fulmine that¡¯s tried, without much success, to get with her during these two days. ¡°Whatever, as long as I get my help, it doesn¡¯t matter what he believes.¡±


    ¡°Really?¡± She asks, sitting down as well, although a good distance away to not get shocked.


    ¡°Yes. Really.¡± He takes a quick glance at the phone before looking back at her. ¡°You¡¯re different from the others. You see¡­ Most are just interested in my body. But you seem much more interested in my skills. Isn¡¯t that right?¡±


    ¡°So you picked up on it!¡± She exclaims, glad that he would take away something so convenient from the whole situation. ¡°I can protect myself, but I want a partner who can handle themselves as well.¡±


    She pulls her robe a little tighter around herself.


    ¡°Truly an eye for greatness. Just like me!¡± He puts one hand on his chest, looking proudly at her. ¡°Such discerning ladies¡­ They¡¯re to live for. Only other one I¡¯ve met was the bat you see with us all the time, Rufina.¡±


    Solomon feels terribly awkward from his statement.


    ¡°But she¡¯s Haemon¡¯s sister, and he¡¯s my good friend, so I leave her alone.¡± He adds.


    ¡°Uhm¡­ That¡¯s great?¡± She says in a less than convincing tone.


    ¡°Then there¡¯s that lioness¡­¡± He continues, Solomon really wishes he didn¡¯t. ¡°She¡¯s great, but eyepatches really aren¡¯t my thing.¡± He looks over at the cat with dreamy eyes. ¡°And there¡¯s also you! Girl, I¡¯ll make this the best night of your life.¡± He states matter-of-factly, lovestruck.


    Solomon has nothing to say, she accepts the compliment with a smile.


    ¡°Fifty-three.¡± Fulmine inspects the phone and grins at the cat.


    ¡°That¡¯ll do it.¡± She says, standing up. The bat also stands up and hands over her phone, looking terribly pleased with himself. ¡°Truly, a showing of skill. You must have great control over your power.¡± She pockets the phone and looks around subtly. ¡°Step two done. Now for the final step¡­¡±


    ¡°Years of practice, Solomon. Now then¡­¡± He holds out his arms, expecting a hug. ¡°Between the two of us, I was sort of jealous of Our Lord. He always gets all the affection so easily¡­ For good reason, but still.¡±


    ¡°Wait!¡± Solomon suddenly exclaims, looking around hurriedly.


    ¡°What is it?¡± He lowers his arms, following her gaze with his.


    ¡°Did you hear that?¡± She steps a little closer to him, acting scared. She gasps and goes to embrace him, hoping that she¡¯s convincing enough.


    ¡°What did you hear?¡± Concerned, he puts one arm around her, petting her head with the other in an attempt to comfort her.


    ¡°I heard it from there!¡± She breaks away from him and points far into the woods. The bat follows her finger with his gaze. ¡°I¡­ I think I see it!¡±


    Fulmine takes a few steps in the direction she points, staring into the woods for several seconds.


    ¡°Are you sure, Solomon?¡± He asks, about to turn around. ¡°I don¡¯t see any-¡±


    Solomon hits him over the head with a rock. He is out cold. She pants, putting the sizable rock down on the ground and waits for a couple seconds, confirming that he is not dead. Genesis is pleased.


    She gathers pieces of wood and ties them to him, acting quickly, hoping to be finished before he wakes up. ¡°I had to do it. I can¡¯t risk him telling anyone about the phone.¡±


    With the pieces of wood tied to him, Solomon puts Fulmine into the water, face up. Floating safely, she lets the river take him hopefully far enough away that he won¡¯t cause her any problems with her getting away.


    ¡°Adieu.¡± She whispers as the bat is washed away by the river and disappears into the horizon. She admittedly feels a little bit wrong for doing this, but figures that the end justifies the means.


    She then hastily walks back closer to the castle while she considers her options. ¡°Who should I message¡­ It will take them a while to get here. I should just tell them to wait in that nearby town for me! But what if I can¡¯t find a way to leave?¡± She feels a raindrop hit her head, the slight shock of the cold water momentarily snapping her out of her train of thought. Now, she hears the sound of rain hitting the leaves and ground all around her, quickly growing in intensity. She decides to think about the details later and heads inside the castle, the rain turning into a downpour.


    Already drenched, she then rushes through the castle, making sure to keep quiet as she heads higher and higher. The mind-bending architecture of the castle doesn¡¯t help navigation, nor does the wet feel of the map. She¡¯s glad to see that despite its condition, it is still readable. She runs as fast and as silently as her legs can take her. ¡°Don¡¯t let this be for nothing¡­¡±


    She checks her reception every now and then, only to be more and more disappointed each time by the lack of it. She heads to the highest tower and opens the window. Still nothing. She impulsively makes a daring move and climbs onto the tower¡¯s slanted roof, the rain pouring down on her, almost slipping off as she makes her way up.


    At the very top of the castle, she can¡¯t help but laugh as she finally gets reception. It¡¯s quite bad, but it¡¯s enough to inform her friends, which makes her and Genesis feel downright euphoric. He may not completely understand, but she feels like he has a pretty good guess on how it¡¯ll assist them. ¡°I can¡¯t believe it¡­ Soon, I can get out of here, safely, hopefully.¡±


    Lisa lies in bed in a hotel, unable to sleep. The task feels impossible, they have scoured large sections of area around the cathedral, as well as nearby villages today, all for nothing. No one has even seen Solomon. They gave up on trying large cities, guessing that no cult would gather in such places. And that¡¯s their biggest problem, it¡¯s all guesswork. Their one lead, Antonio, is missing. Without him, finding Solomon is like finding a cat-sized needle in a Spain-sized haystack. Truly, the situation seems hopeless.


    ¡°Still can¡¯t sleep?¡± Thalia asks from a bed next to Lisa¡¯s.


    ¡°How could I possibly sleep, Thali?¡± The wolf turns in bed, exasperated.


    ¡°I can get through a day with two hours of sleep, you can¡¯t.¡± The panther remarks. ¡°I¡¯ll try and keep watch, just in case.¡±


    ¡°That really doesn¡¯t help.¡± Lisa says with a sigh, looking at the ceiling. ¡°I just feel so bloody useless, mate¡­¡±


    ¡°We¡¯re getting her back, Lisa!¡± Thalia tries to cheer up the wolf, sitting up, her voice turning sombre. ¡°I can¡¯t let her end up like Alan.¡±


    ¡°What if she does?¡± Lisa exclaims, louder than Thalia would like. ¡°We¡¯ve got no clues, nothing other than what country she¡¯s in! Come on, we¡¯re supposed to be sodding investigators!¡±


    ¡°Lisa, please.¡± Says the panther. ¡°We¡¯ll find her! If it¡¯s the last thing I¡¯ll do, I¡¯ll help with it. I can¡¯t let such a thing happen again¡­¡±


    ¡°We¡¯re just five people.¡± Lisa states, calming down slightly. ¡°There¡¯s only so much we can do. Who knows what those guys are doing to Rox right now?¡±


    ¡°The poor girl¡­¡± Says Thalia. ¡°I can¡¯t even imagine how she must be feeling.¡±


    ¡°Okay, now you¡¯re REALLY not helping.¡± Lisa turns in bed once again and checks her phone to look at the time. Thalia is about to make a remark when the wolf practically shoots up in bed, tears steadily gathering in her eyes.


    ¡°THALI!!!¡± She says as she rushes over to the mildly confused panther.


    Adelar quickly sits up in bed upon hearing quite the commotion just outside his hotel room, as if someone is rushing towards the door.


    He gets up and looks around the room, Yaroslav and Durazo are still sleeping. He readies himself, content with setting whoever is after them on fire, especially if Ludwig sent them.


    ¡°Wake the FUCK up, mates!¡± Lisa practically breaks through the door with no regard for other hotel guests, Thalia closely behind her. Everyone else in the room is woken up.


    ¡°What is it?¡± Yaroslav asks groggily, looking annoyed by being woken up this way.


    ¡°Solomon just sent me a message!¡± She exclaims excitedly.


    That seems to get his attention way more.


    ¡°What?!¡± Durazo and Yaroslav speak at the same time.


    ¡°Not only that, we know where she is!¡± Thalia adds.


    Adelar checks his phone and sure enough, he was messaged as well, very recently.


    ¡°But¡­ How?¡± He asks, entirely too confused. The details, the location, how to get there, everything they need to know is written down in her message.


    ¡°I¡¯m givin¡¯ ya about two minutes to get ready before we go get ¡®er, got that? Be quick, and we can make it there by the next night!¡± Lisa orders before running right back to the room where she and Thalia were sleeping, presumably to change into streetwear.


    They waste no time getting ready to leave. Finally, Solomon will be saved¡­

 Chapter 21 - Vanish

    Solomon wakes up, terribly sleepy, having stayed up to dry herself to avoid suspicion. Her plan worked like a charm and she still has more than enough charge in her phone to update her situation to her friends for at least a couple days. She has no intention of using it for anything else. Finally, she is being compensated for the misfortunes that befell her, although she can¡¯t help but feel nervous about what happened with Fulmine. If he somehow comes back¡­ Then, and only then will she regret not spending the night with him.


    She heads down for a meal, looking for Rufina in the meantime. Turning a corner, distracted by people cleaning, she bangs her left foot against the corner once again. She quietly curses before she continues.


    Rufina is nowhere to be seen, or at least not in the dining hall. She does see Luxor, however, lightly bobbing his head to a soft violin tune as he eats.


    She takes a quick look around the places she figures the bat could be, but she is nowhere. Her brother is apparently talking to Wraps from afar, though. She feels increasingly tempted each day to find out more about the thick-clothed person, but not enough to possibly have it interfere with her plan.


    As she¡¯s searching for Rufina, she realises something: she could just wait for the lanterns to light up! Then, she¡¯s guaranteed to be at the hall.


    Hoping that the bats won¡¯t find Fulmine¡¯s absence suspicious, she heads to her favourite place in the entire castle: the library. At the very least, there is no noise there, plus she can ease her mind  with some reading.


    This time, she chooses to read nonfiction. A short book about a boy who went missing and was unceremoniously found one day. She¡¯s happy he was found, but it makes her remember why she prefers fiction. It¡¯s enough, however, to pass the time until the lanterns begin shining intensely. ¡°Please be there, Rufina.¡±


    Upon walking down to the main hall, she spots the bat with the silver and grey markings talking to her brother at the side of the hall. Once again, she doesn¡¯t see Wraps anywhere.


    The ceremony begins soon after, Luxor shines his light onto his followers, Solomon covers herself from it. If it¡¯s a reward for supporting him, then it¡¯s a reward she does not want, even though she really wants to allow herself just a couple seconds of the happiness she would experience from it. Genesis disapproves of the latter part.


    As the eight minutes pass, she sees the lanterns and the whole hall grow dimmer, that¡¯s when she pretends to have taken in his light once more. The people then scatter and she immediately heads for Rufina when she sees Haemon leave her alone.


    ¡°Hey.¡± She makes her attempt at starting a conversation. ¡°So?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll let you know.¡± Says the bat, much to Solomon¡¯s and Genesis¡¯ disappointment. ¡°We need a good plan for this.¡±


    ¡°No matter. I can wait for now¡­ I hope.¡±


    ¡°Alright, I¡¯ll be waiting.¡± She nods, the bat then walks away after giving her a reassuring smile.


    Solomon then goes to sit down at an empty table, mildly nervous about last night, still.


    As she¡¯s inspecting her hands, a sensing calm from Genesis, Grayson walks up to the table and sits down next to her.


    ¡°I see you made a new friend.¡± He remarks, looking refreshed from the light.


    ¡°If you want to put it that way¡­¡± She responds, holding up her head in apparent boredom. ¡°About as much of a friend as Sheila.¡±


    Grayson quickly turns to face the cat.


    ¡°Sheila?¡± He asks in disbelief. ¡°She¡¯s also here?¡±


    ¡°Yes?¡± Solomon raises an eyebrow. ¡°I thought you-¡±


    ¡°Why didn¡¯t you tell me? Where is she?¡± Grayson demands.


    Solomon was under the impression that the goat already knew. Now that she knows that he didn¡¯t, she wants to tell him what happened, even if they worked for Ludwig, she feels like they should know that they¡¯re both there.


    ¡°As far as I know, she¡¯s in the dungeon.¡± She tries to keep herself, and the goat, calm and quiet as she replies.


    ¡°Then I¡¯m going there.¡± He states as he stands up and leaves the ¡°Hall of Light¡±, heading towards the dungeon. Solomon follows him closely behind, the prospect of leaving growing ever greater in her mind.


    ¡°Sheila¡­ I know her all too well. She was my superior before I was sent to that damned park.¡± Grayson says softly, making sure to walk in the middle of the hallway.


    ¡°That¡¯s why you sent us to Lion¡¯s Den.¡± Says Solomon, doing her best to keep pace as they approach the door to the dungeon.


    ¡°Precisely.¡± He says with a hint of irritation in his voice, reaching for the doorknob. He looks around one more time and opens the door.


    The two of them enter, Grayson starts checking out the cells one by one, giving each but a brief glance. Even the cells are spotless. As they walk farther and farther down the dungeon corridor, Solomon feels more than a little unnerved. Now that she gets a better look at it, there are no lanterns to light the way, just like in the showers, only regular torches.


    Upon looking into one of the cells, Solomon sees a dishevelled canine lying on a bed. He sniffs the air, sits up, and looks directly at her. Except where his eyes should be are two burnt holes. The sight sends a chill down her spine, she quickly looks away, still feeling his empty gaze.


    She¡¯s reminded of the agents who originally went to the dungeon, hoping that whatever happened to them won¡¯t happen to her or Grayson. Then again, she¡¯s supposedly a part of the cult now, surely, whoever or whatever got to them wouldn¡¯t do the same to cult members.


    It takes a bit of walking, but they eventually get to the cell where the lioness is held. She is lying on a ramshackle bed inside, certainly having seen better days, parts of her suit have cuts and holes torn.


    ¡°Sheila!¡± Grayson exclaims, grasping the bars of the cell. The lioness looks up, confused by the familiarity of the voice.


    ¡°You¡¯re here too?¡± She asks, then glances over to Solomon. ¡°Well isn¡¯t this a merry little gathering.¡±


    ¡°Sheila, I¡¯m so glad you¡¯re alive!¡± Grayson states, looking as he said, glad. Solomon has to admit, deep down, she¡¯s a little happy to see her alive. The same can¡¯t be said for Genesis, however, judging by a mix of visceral anger and disappointment from him. ¡°We¡¯ll need to work on that.¡±


    ¡°How come they didn¡¯t kill you like the rest?¡± Solomon asks. Based on the goat¡¯s expression, he would also like to know that.


    Sheila rolls up her right sleeve in response.


    ¡°Apparently they just lost another Mystic One. Guess they¡¯ll try to get me to join.¡± She scoffs. ¡°I¡¯d rather die than worship whatever that thing is.¡±


    ¡°You have to get her out of here.¡± Grayson pleads, looking at Solomon, much to the surprise of the two felines. ¡°Please, consider this your way of repaying me.¡±


    ¡°What do you mean ¡°repay¡±?¡± Sheila chimes in, but is ignored.


    ¡°I don¡¯t care how you do it, but please get her out! I have some unfinished business here.¡± Grayson states with a look of determination.


    ¡°What business?¡± Solomon inquires, slightly suspicious along with Genesis.


    ¡°Listen¡­¡± The goat says in a whisper after looking around. ¡°They don¡¯t suspect me. I could be a man on the inside here!¡±


    ¡°Really?¡± Sheila questions, now standing at the cell door. ¡°You¡¯d choose to just stay here for that?¡±


    ¡°Someone has to!¡± Grayson replies, a little louder. ¡°I could still be useful to our operations, even without magic! I could inform you about their plans once you¡¯re out.¡±


    Solomon feels conflicted. She wants to help Grayson get out, but she also understands his side. Even if it¡¯s The System, an expert org having information on the cult would make her feel better once she¡¯s out. Not to mention, it could help her keep up whatever ruse she¡¯ll use to leave.


    ¡°That¡¯s an insane plan.¡± Sheila remarks, then smirks. ¡°But as your boss, I approve.¡±


    ¡°Good, good!¡± Grayson then looks over at Solomon. ¡°So please, get her out. Do this one thing for me.¡±


    Solomon owes them nothing. That¡¯s what Genesis thinks anyway. But her¡­ She certainly feels like she owes Grayson a favour. Maybe not so much to Sheila, but it can¡¯t be helped. She makes up her mind.


    ¡°I will.¡± She says with a nod, which Genesis doesn¡¯t seem to like.


    ¡°Thank you.¡± Grayson smiles and puts a hand on her shoulder. ¡°I hope to see you once more on the outside, when this is all over. Until then, stay safe.¡± He salutes Sheila and turns to leave.


    ¡°Where are you going?¡± Sheila asks, now more concerned.


    ¡°I don¡¯t want to draw suspicion. I haven¡¯t seen the warden all day and I¡¯d like to keep it that way.¡± He then glances at Solomon, as if to recommend that she does the same.


    ¡°I¡¯ll leave soon as well.¡± She states. ¡°I¡¯d like to talk to Sheila a little.¡±


    ¡°Alright.¡± Grayson gives in. ¡°But make it quick.¡± He then walks down the dungeon hallway, the sound of his hooves echoing more than he¡¯d probably like.


    ¡°Always playing the hero¡­¡± Solomon remarks, then turns to the lioness. ¡°Sheila, I¡¯m sorry I got you in this situation in the first place!¡±


    ¡°Apology accepted.¡± She says in response. ¡°To be fair, if you brought Shaqie, you possibly could have escaped already.¡±


    ¡°And you only tell me this now?¡± Solomon snaps at her.


    ¡°I wasn¡¯t going to argue with the old man about it. Shaqie has a lot of combat experience. Originally a Blazing One, but wanted wind as well, for reasons beyond my understanding.¡± She glances to the side, disapprovingly. ¡° Objectively worse for fighting in general, but trust me, she¡¯s damn good with it.¡±


    ¡°What about Rufina?¡± Solomon inquires. ¡°She told me what happened between her and Ludwig. What happened after she left?¡±


    ¡°Ah, so you met her.¡± Sheila puts her hands under her head as she lies on the bed. ¡°Power really got to the old man¡¯s head after that. Sent Harper and I to Lion¡¯s Den and chose to make all the decisions himself. From what I¡¯ve heard, he just throws men at problems until it¡¯s solved.¡± She lets out a sigh of exasperation. ¡°And that¡¯s how we ended up here.¡±


    All of a sudden, Solomon herself feels a burning resentment in her body. It definitely isn¡¯t coming from Genesis, however. Such hate¡­ The last time she felt such hatred was when her emotions were still mixed with his.


    ¡°If only you had someone else as a leader¡­¡± She says, ears drooping.


    ¡°I don¡¯t particularly care who I work for as long as I get paid¡­ But I still think that a change in leadership is due. All I¡¯ll say is that if I was the boss, there¡¯d be a lot more reconnaissance.¡± Sheila states causally, but her expression tells a different story, a rather sombre one. ¡°I won¡¯t force you to do anything, but if you could get me out¡­ That would be preferable.¡± She lifts her head to look at the cat. ¡°We all have people we want to see again, Solomon.¡±


    Solomon pauses for a moment, looking down at the floor, then her hands. ¡°There definitely is someone like that.¡±


    ¡°Lisa¡­¡± She says softly, looking down at the floor, then back at Sheila, who seems a little bit surprised.


    ¡°Look, I¡¯m not judging.¡± She states. ¡°Just¡­ Find a way to get us out of here.¡±


    ¡°A plan is in the works.¡± Solomon grabs onto the cell bars. ¡°I could melt these whenever it¡¯s needed. That¡¯s a good start, right?¡±


    ¡°Yeah.¡± Sheila instinctively steps back from her. ¡°Let¡¯s call it that.¡±


    From her peripheral, Solomon spots something. She turns to look, her heart skips a beat upon seeing the unmistakable silhouette of Wraps standing at the far end of the dungeon hallway. She¡¯s certain that they weren¡¯t there before.


    ¡°What is it?¡± Sheila asks.


    Solomon keeps looking in the direction of the person. ¡°Not this time.¡± She is shocked to see them do a beckoning gesture. They then turn to their left, take a step, seemingly push on air, take another step and¡­ Disappear. Not into a cell, very clearly a good half a metre in front of it.


    ¡°What?¡± Solomon questions out loud. She rubs her eyes, but sure enough, they¡¯re still gone. The inquisitive feeling from Genesis tells her that he either doesn¡¯t know what happened or doesn¡¯t remember anything that does that. Only then, does she turn to look at Sheila.


    ¡°I just saw someone disappear into thin air.¡± She states and would question her sanity if it wasn¡¯t for the fact that Genesis also saw it happen.


    ¡°Really?¡± Sheila scoffs, her expression then turns concerned. ¡°Place is starting to get to you, huh?¡± She goes to lie back down on the bed. ¡°Can¡¯t blame you too much. This place is¡­ Weird. To put it mildly.¡±


    ¡°No, I¡¯ve seen them before. The one in the winter clothes, the warden.¡± She says, taking a step in the direction where the person was.


    ¡°You don¡¯t think they heard us, right?¡± Sheila asks in response, but Solomon ignores her.


    Solomon feels conflicted once again. She wants to investigate so much¡­ But she has to keep herself safe. She will get out soon, she just needs to not die, especially now that she promised Grayson to get Sheila out. Everything tells her not to go down farther, but curiosity, the yearning to know¡­ It¡¯s positively killing her. ¡°I have the original Acid One on my side. I can take care of myself one on one. Curiosity killed the cat¡­ But not this one.¡±


    ¡°Solomon?¡± Sheila asks, but is once again ignored as Solomon quietly walks down the corridor. The farther she goes, the more she feels like this is a mistake, but she can¡¯t help it. She wants to know. The cells along the way are remarkably empty, only an unfortunate few are laid on the beds of some. Solomon doesn¡¯t recognise any of them, she hears no pleading or other noises from them either.


    Arriving at the cell she saw Wraps disappeared, she sees someone sleeping on the bed. It definitely looks more lived in than most of the others, having a neat desk and a somewhat better bed. Whoever is in there must be a little more important than the rest. She looks around, but can¡¯t see anything suspicious.


    She takes a few more steps down the corridor before she starts hearing a soft noise. It sounds like something grinding on stone, but much quieter. She turns to look, but can¡¯t see the source. ¡°What¡¯s going on?¡±


    The noise stops. She then sees an arm, then one half of a person, Wraps, emerge from seemingly thin air. They lean out from¡­ Something. Whatever it is, it covers one of their legs and part of their torso. It looks as if the parts covered are not even there.


    ¡°Come in.¡± Says the muffled, decidedly feminine voice of Wraps, gesturing for Solomon to get closer.


    ¡°Who¡­ Are you?¡± She asks, taking a tentative step towards them, and bangs her foot on something. She looks down, but can¡¯t see anything. ¡°Wait a minute¡­¡± Genesis practically yells at her to get out, to just leave, but she¡¯s so close¡­ She has to know.


    She¡¯s now in front of Wraps, the thing no longer covering them. She reaches out to feel for whatever it may be, only to touch a cold wall. Wraps steps behind the wall and disappears again. The cell door then opens, seemingly on its own. Solomon follows, looking through the inner side of the invisible wall, everything seems¡­ Darker, save for the little entrance she used to enter. In front of this cell, there are walls made from whatever material this is.


    This story is posted elsewhere by the author. Help them out by reading the authentic version.


    Wraps touches part of the wall, a slab slides into place, sealing it. Solomon feels a jolt of panic, hoping that if need be, she can melt it as well.


    ¡°You don¡¯t belong here.¡± Says Wraps, which doesn¡¯t exactly encourage Solomon. ¡°You don¡¯t take in his light.¡± The sense of dread only grows inside her, now inside Genesis as well. ¡°You could help me.¡± The fear in her heart is quickly replaced with confusion.


    ¡°What?¡± She asks, bewildered.


    ¡°About time we met properly.¡± Says Wraps, taking off their hood, which Solomon finds ever so slightly exciting. Finally, she¡¯ll get to know who this person is!


    ¡°Yes, please.¡± Says the cat.


    Wraps then takes off the welding goggles. For the first time, Solomon gets a good look at their eyes. Their left eye is a deep blue colour, but their right¡­ The iris is almost as black as the pupil, even the white of it is a dim grey, closely resembling the colour of Wraps¡¯ fur. They then start unwrapping the fabric on their head. As they do, two ears pop out. Once their head is free of the fabric entirely, she can confidently say that they are a she, another bat, no less. ¡°You have got to be joking.¡±


    But that isn¡¯t what catches her attention at first. Rather, it¡¯s the dark markings on the right side of her head, even going through her right eye. It looks as if the darkness is spreading from her eye, almost as if it¡¯s leaking darkness, breaking into lines that go down the side of her neck. Wraps exhales deeply as the fabric is removed.


    Solomon has to admit, she¡¯d be quite pretty if it wasn¡¯t for the markings on her face, her nose is more like Fulmine¡¯s, resembling that of a canine. She guesses that the bat must be a little older than her, much like all the bats she met so far.


    ¡°My name is Lumi Jarvinen.¡± She states, taking off her coat and putting it on a chair. Under the coat, rather than a shirt or so, she has the rest of her upper body wrapped in more fabric, including the arms. ¡°But why?¡± It is now apparent that she has an excellent physique.


    ¡°A master of darkness.¡± She says as she takes off her gloves, panting softly, clearly happy about not having to wear those thick clothes here. On her right hand, Solomon can see traces of dim blue, choked by dark markings. On her left, only dim blue.


    ¡°It must get so hot under all that¡­¡± Solomon remarks, having way too many questions she wants answered, something Genesis is quite used to by now.


    ¡°Oh, you have no idea.¡± Lumi nods at her with a slight scoff. ¡°But it¡¯s better than death by light. What matters is that you¡¯re not with him, and maybe you have some information about what I¡¯m looking for. Or rather, who I¡¯m looking for.¡± She states, winking with her dark eye.


    ¡°I¡¯ll have to stop you right there.¡± Solomon interrupts. ¡°What are you saying? A master of darkness? What does that even mean?¡±


    One of her questions is answered, at least: why she wears all those thick clothes. Magical light can kill Dark Ones, and Lumi is no doubt a Dark One. But that only leads to more questions.


    ¡°Why are you here? This is a cult of light, why do you put up with this as a Dark One? And while on the topic of that, how did you-¡±


    ¡°One at a time, feline.¡± Says Lumi, holding one hand out, looking slightly annoyed. ¡°I can see that we differ. You call us Dark Ones, we call us masters of darkness. Same with other types, I presume?¡± She says as she unwraps her right arm, causing her wings to pop out. Going along it, Solomon can see that the dark markings on her head and arm are likely connected, darkness winding around the frost markings on her right arm. She repeats the process on her left arm before letting out a sigh of relief.


    ¡°Much better.¡± She then sits down on the bed. The person sleeping there turns out to just be a decoy dummy. ¡°Take a seat, by all means, make yourself comfortable.¡±


    Solomon apprehensively goes to sit down on the chair on which Lumi put her coat.


    ¡°I¡¯m here because of one reason.¡± Lumi begins to say. ¡°The person I¡¯m looking for is bound to get here eventually. This amount of light in one place¡­ The power inside them will not tolerate such a mocking presence for long.¡±


    Solomon Doesn¡¯t feel like she¡¯s even a single step closer to her answers.


    ¡°But then how come Luxor allows you to be here?¡± Solomon frowns at the bat suspiciously. ¡°Why are you even telling me this?¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re not with him.¡± Says the bat, then grasps the handle of one of her knives. ¡°Right?¡±


    Solomon nods vigorously, slightly worried for her safety. She senses that Genesis would probably be berating her if he could talk.


    ¡°Good.¡± She relaxes and lets go of the handle. ¡°Neither am I. The moment this person arrives¡­ I¡¯m leaving with them. As for Luxor, he finds it immensely pleasing that a master of darkness is serving him. The gullible fool.¡± She smirks. ¡°I asked to be the warden, so I don¡¯t have to wear all that stuff while down here. Asked him if he could remove the lanterns from the showers, and surprisingly, he did!¡±


    Solomon is quite happy to see how chatty Lumi is, after everything she thought she knew about the bat. ¡°Just what I needed.¡±


    She listens intently as the bat goes on and on about how glad she is that even just one person refuses to take in his light, a telltale sign of not accepting him, as well as how boring it can be to just wait for this apparently tremendously important person to come. To be fair, she goes into detail way more than Solomon would prefer, including all the minute details that she frankly just doesn¡¯t care much for. She can¡¯t blame her too much though, it must feel exhilarating to have someone to properly talk to. She finds it odd that Lumi trusts her so much just for rejecting the light.


    ¡°And¡­ Who is this person?¡± Solomon asks, trying to steer the conversation in a way that may help her find out more.


    ¡°We call it True Darkness.¡± Lumi says.


    Now, Solomon has a guess on who she might mean.


    ¡°A person of immense dark powers, able to snuff out the magical light! I need to find this person and become their disciple.¡± She says with great fervour and excitement. ¡°My family has spent generations looking for such a person. If I can find one¡­ That would bring great honour to my name.¡±


    The more the bat says, the more suspicious Solomon gets. No one would ever share so much clandestine information to a stranger.


    ¡°Okay, drop the act.¡± She says, crossing her arms. ¡°You just met me. There¡¯s no way you trust me so much just because I don¡¯t take in his light. I never even saw you during those ceremonies.¡±


    Lumi sighs in response.


    ¡°I can tell you why I trust you, but you may not like it.¡± Says the bat.


    Solomon waves dismissively, but still quite curious.


    ¡°I¡¯ve been following you. I have little pockets and entire hallways made of this ice around the castle to hide me. And the rest of the cult is aware, they¡¯re great ambush points!¡±


    Solomon feels dreadfully exposed all of a sudden.


    ¡°Just¡­ How much do you know?¡± She asks, scared to hear her answer.


    ¡°I heard you plotting your escape, your conversations with Fulmine, even when you were talking to yourself in the library. What was that about anyway?¡±


    Solomon tries to keep her composure, but she feels like she¡¯s doing a terrible job at it, along with a sense of dread from Genesis.


    ¡°...what?¡± Is all she manages to say.


    ¡°I know, that¡¯s creepy and all that. But I needed to confirm your reliability. I do that for every new member, most just accept him and move on. Unlike you.¡± She chuckles. ¡°The things you said¡­ Quite scandalous.¡± Her expression turns serious. She stands up and takes a step towards Solomon, which startles her. ¡°But I can help you vanish just like you want. All I need in exchange is some information.¡±


    Solomon¡¯s ears perk up. ¡°Yes! She could be my ticket to get out of here!¡±


    ¡°What do you want to know?¡± She asks, unable to hide her excitement.


    ¡°This True Darkness¡­ Will you help me find them?¡± Lumi asks, leaning a bit closer to Solomon. The sight of her darkened eye creeps her out more and more. ¡°If she¡¯s talking about Thalia¡­¡±


    ¡°Their body is covered entirely in darkness. I know that can be deceiving, but if you¡¯ve seen someone like that¡­¡± She adds.


    ¡°She¡¯s definitely talking about Thalia.¡± Such a dilemma. Solomon would rather not tell the bat about her¡­ She could just lie. ¡°Maybe Lumi is testing me. Or maybe she¡¯s lying.¡± If she really overheard the things she told Genesis¡­ She can¡¯t remember if she outright stated that Thalia is True Darkness. Desperate for allies, she decides not to risk it.


    ¡°Yes. I know her personally, actually.¡± She states, Lumi seems to be in disbelief at her response.


    ¡°No way! Are you sure it wasn¡¯t just¡­¡± She begins to say, but Solomon cuts her off.


    ¡°I saw her fill a room with unnatural darkness, then move at high speed in it.¡± She states, truthfully.


    Lumi is in awe.


    ¡°You¡¯re not getting out of here.¡± Says the bat, Solomon gets ready to sic Genesis on the bat. Even after all this¡­ ¡°Not by yourself, you aren¡¯t.¡± She holds out her dark and frost covered right hand. ¡°I¡¯m coming with you.¡± She states with a confident smile. ¡°Why would you phrase it like that?¡±


    She grasps her hand, they both nod. Solomon can¡¯t help feeling a little weirded out by the bat, but as long as she gets her out, she doesn¡¯t care.


    ¡°Now I¡¯m sure you realised that this ice isn¡¯t normal.¡± Says Lumi, pulling her hand away. Her markings then light up and produce a small, dark ice crystal. ¡°This will be the key to your freedom and my destiny.¡±


    Solomon takes a closer look at the dark ice. She can see right through not just the ice, but Lumi¡¯s hand as well where it covers her hand.


    ¡°How is that¡­¡± She mutters, more to herself than the bat.


    ¡°Darkness is stubborn. It hates company. In my case, ice.¡± Says Lumi, the crystal in her hand growing bigger. ¡°It has qualities that other types do not. For example, darkness itself can never hurt you. It¡¯s what¡¯s in it that matters. And it hates that.¡± She clenches her fist, shattering the crystal and startling Solomon. ¡°It only has an effect on living beings by itself, so it transfers that property to other types. Dark fire won¡¯t burn down a forest or kill you, but it will hurt all the same. Ice, on the other hand, it seems to tolerate the most.¡±


    She walks out of the cell and to the wall in front of it. Solomon follows and listens.


    ¡°This, is my masterpiece.¡± Lumi exclaims proudly. ¡°Dark Ice normally hides all living beings and whatever they wear, except plants for some reason. But what I made, think of it as a one-way mirror of sorts.¡± She explains, putting one arm on her hip. ¡°By combining regular ice and dark ice, I can make these panels! We can see whoever¡¯s on the other side, but they can¡¯t see us.¡± She puts her hand against the side of the wall. ¡°It¡¯s not an easy process, it¡¯s hard to make the ice look so hard to see, but it works. The dark ice also keeps the regular ice from melting.¡±


    Solomon feels fascinated by Lumi¡¯s ingenuity. She¡¯s more and more interested in the combinations that can be made, especially with darkness. Judging by how he feels, even Genesis is impressed to an extent.


    ¡°And that¡¯s how we¡¯re getting out of here. I already have an idea.¡± She says, giving her a reassuring smile.


    ¡°Please tell me then!¡± Solomon practically pleads.


    ¡°Now, no one else knows that we want this. I hardly talk to the other bats, especially not about my plans with darkness. You will bump into me, I will get annoyed and call you out for a duel.¡± All of  sudden, Solomon doesn¡¯t like Lumi¡¯s idea anymore. ¡°It will be outside. I will throw a knife into your shoulder, you will act like it¡¯s fatal, and hide behind a panel I will set up beforehand. Do whatever you have to in order to make it look like you died, then hide behind the ice. After that¡¯s done, I¡¯ll meet you later and we¡¯ll slip away! How¡¯s that?¡±


    Lumi says the whole plan, entirely too fast for Solomon to follow completely. She feels like she understands the point though, slightly perturbed by Lumi knowing about her acid power without her telling.


    ¡°...what if you miss and actually kill me?¡± Solomon states, concerned.


    ¡°That won¡¯t happen. Trust me on that.¡± The bat winks her darkened eye. Solomon is less than excited about having a knife thrown at her, but if it means that she¡¯ll get out¡­


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry about bleeding out either.¡± Lumi adds, pulling out a knife, which is made out of dark ice. ¡°The good thing about this ice is that it doesn¡¯t melt from heat! It will form ice crystals around the wound, not letting the blood out, as long as you don¡¯t pull it out. I¡¯ll make a brand new one for the occasion!¡±


    ¡°Just be careful, okay?¡± Says the cat, still worried. But in her situation, she¡¯ll have to put safety aside.


    She then comes to a realisation.


    ¡°I need you to help me get someone out as well.¡± She states with a slightly alarmed expression. ¡°I made a promise to someone who saved my life. I cannot go back on it.¡±


    Lumi seems to understand.


    ¡°I can do that, I¡¯ll just slip out with them! Who is it?¡± She leans against the ice pane, which is apparently strong enough to hold her weight, smiling at the feline.


    ¡°The lioness in the dungeon. One of the few prisoners. How come there are so few of them anyway?¡±


    ¡°Got it.¡± Her smile fades. ¡°You see¡­ Luxor doesn¡¯t like taking prisoners. He prefers a more¡­¡± She pauses for just a moment. ¡°Direct solution to intruders. Unless he finds them interesting enough. That happens on more of a whim than anything.¡±


    Solomon nods.


    ¡°I¡¯m not surprised.¡± She says with a sigh. ¡°But thank you. Once we¡¯re out, I promise I¡¯ll repay you.¡±


    ¡°All I¡¯ll need is a meeting with the True Darkness.¡± Lumi replies. ¡°That¡¯ll be plenty.¡±


    Just like that, things are looking up for Solomon. She can hardly believe that the bat would be so inclined to help her, all in exchange for meeting Thalia. It feels too good to be true. ¡°I¡¯ll keep an eye on her, just in case. When I can see her, that is.¡±


    ¡°I better go now.¡± Says Solomon. ¡°I should let her know about the plan.¡±


    Lumi puts her right hand on the ice wall, a part of it comes loose and slides out, making an opening.


    ¡°You can find me here in the evening any day. Knock four times on the ice, leave some time between the second and third knock, that way I¡¯ll know it¡¯s you.¡± She puts up her other hand to wave her goodbye for now.


    Solomon wishes her well and watches the bat disappear behind the sliding ice. She stays for just a little longer to inspect the wall from the outside. She has to look very carefully to see it, if she didn¡¯t know it was there, she likely wouldn¡¯t have noticed it. Then, she makes her way to Sheila and briefly informs her of the plan, after which, she goes to leave the dungeon. ¡°Finally¡­ Even in a place like this, I can find allies! Allies that I am very much in need of¡­¡±


    When she opens the door leading to the dungeon, she comes face to face with Haemon, wearing a white hoodie, leaning against a wall with his arms crossed. He seems just as delighted to see her as she is to see him. ¡°Merde.¡±


    ¡°We really have to stop meeting like this.¡± She says, trying to be casual about it.


    ¡°We really have to stop meeting.¡± The bat replies coldly. ¡°What were you doing in the dungeon?¡± He demands.


    ¡°I don¡¯t believe that¡¯s your business.¡± In her mind, she¡¯s already making up excuses, none of which actually sound decent enough for her. Genesis really wants to handle the situation, apparently. ¡°No.¡±


    ¡°What were you doing in there?¡± He repeats, more slowly, in a tone that¡¯s anything but friendly, taking a step towards her. She holds up her hands in defence, the green glow of her markings projecting on her white robe. That makes him stop in his tracks and recoil slightly. Seeing that he¡¯s still very much scared of her power, she leans against the wall and lets herself slide down to the floor. Maybe if she makes herself appear like less of a threat, he¡¯ll leave her alone for the time being.


    ¡°Where¡¯s Fulmine?¡± He asks, calmer now. The question hits Solomon¡¯s mind with the weight of the entire castle. ¡°Don¡¯t panic. Don¡¯t let him have even a chance of guessing that he¡¯s floating down the river.¡±


    ¡°Why should I know?¡± She asks with a shrug. ¡°A fair question, surely.¡±


    ¡°Haven¡¯t seen him all day and he wouldn¡¯t shut up about you since he first saw you.¡± He states with a scowl. ¡°It¡¯s getting annoying.¡±


    Solomon covers her face briefly before shaking her head. She feels like she should keep him in her peripheral at the very least.


    ¡°It¡¯s not my fault he can¡¯t take a hint, now is it?¡± She turns her head to look at him. She finds it hard to keep her composure while looking into his red eyes, so she turns back not long after. ¡°I¡¯d prefer if he stopped.¡± She adds.


    ¡°You and me both.¡± Says the bat, the positivity in his voice catching Solomon by surprise. ¡°A word of advice: tell him you have a partner. If that doesn¡¯t shut him up, nothing will.¡±


    Now Solomon can¡¯t hide her surprise and wonders why she didn¡¯t just try that. ¡°Would that even have stopped him?¡±


    ¡°Why are you telling me this?¡± She raises an eyebrow.


    ¡°Because if he tells me about the ¡°beauty of your eyes'''' one more god damn time, I just might go insane.¡± He states, making air quotes with his fingers.


    Solomon feels much less guilty about sending Fulmine down the river all of a sudden.


    ¡°Right.¡± She says, feeling like she should have expected him to talk about that in her absence. ¡°Didn¡¯t think I¡¯d say this, but sorry to hear that.¡± She stands up, feeling like she¡¯d much rather be anywhere else than here. ¡°And if you must know¡­ I was just talking to the lioness I arrived with. I only learned she¡¯s alive recently.¡±


    Haemon naturally doesn¡¯t appear to believe her, but shrugs his shoulders as a response anyway.


    ¡°Get out of my sight already.¡± He says with a sigh.


    Solomon wastes no time doing that exactly. She wants to get out as soon as possible. ¡°Tomorrow. With Lumi¡¯s help, I¡¯ll finally be free. Free of the Lightborn, free of The System.¡± It may be a little early, but she¡¯s already thinking about what she¡¯ll do. Or rather, what she won¡¯t, for she certainly won¡¯t go anywhere near a public space for some time. She may take a page out of Thalia¡¯s book and take on a new persona entirely. Anything to be free.


    Solomon has one more meal before the sun eventually goes down. She takes an early opportunity to clean herself, hoping that it wouldn¡¯t appear as suspicious to other people, searching for a good spot to disappear into in the meantime. She plans her actions, discreetly keeping in contact with Lumi. She already made a new knife.


    Close to the end of the day, she heads to the library to consult Genesis hopefully for the last time in the castle. Upon settling at her usual place, Solomon feels her hands tingle.


    ¡°You are awfully quick to trust sometimes.¡± The cat feels quite irritated at his opinion.


    ¡°What better option do we have?¡± She looks around carefully, making sure there is no one within earshot. ¡°We can¡¯t just fight our way through. There are too many of them! If they think we¡¯re dead, however¡­ They won¡¯t even look for us.¡± She can¡¯t help feeling like she is being watched ever since Lumi told her that she has these invisible ice pockets set up all around the castle. She figures the bat must have put great effort into hiding them, as she¡¯s only bumped into a couple of them. She can¡¯t even imagine how much polishing the ice needed to make it appear so invisible.


    There is no response from Genesis for a good minute.


    ¡°But if things get bad¡­¡± She begins to say, pensive. ¡°I can count on you, right?¡±


    ¡°Of course. You are my best host so far. I cannot let you die.¡± She finds this message of his incredibly creepy. ¡°Your best host, huh¡­¡±


    ¡°Thank you. I may not be able to use these powers correctly¡­ But you can.¡± She feels encouraged by his notion, creepy message or not.


    She puts away the notebook and as she is leaving the library, she has a revelation. ¡°I need to tell them about the change of plans.¡±


    She makes her way to the top of a castle tower once again. The sun has already set. Finding a comfortable enough spot on the roof, she takes out her phone to write a message to the others. She assures them that she will be leaving this place soon enough, which she can¡¯t help feeling excited about.


    After the message is written, she puts her phone away and takes a moment to look around and just admire the view. The vast forest stretches across the horizon, no other building can be seen, even from this high up. She can still hear the crickets chirping and various other sounds of the forest all around her. ¡°How can such a beautiful place house people like him¡­¡± She glances down to the river and sees no one. Not the fishermen, not Fulmine. Unlike last time, the weather is nice and cool, there is a gentle breeze in the air. She unbuttons her robe to feel the wind on her fur, taking in a sensation she missed so much. All alone with Genesis on the roof of the tower, for the first time in what feels like years, she feels at peace.


    She lies down on the roof and allows herself some time to relax and look up at the stars. Soon, her ordeal will be over. She will be home.


    After an irresponsibly too long while, she decides that it¡¯s time to head to sleep. She takes one more look at the forest¡­ And is suddenly glad that she did, or rather, horrified. Down in the woods, staying in the darkness, she spots several people. One in particular makes her blood run cold: Ludwig.

 Chapter 22 - Siege

    ¡°No¡­ NO! It can¡¯t be! Why is he here?!¡± Solomon rubs her eyes, squints, and does just about everything to make sure she isn¡¯t just seeing things. The mix of surprise and anger from Genesis completely denies any possibility of that. Her terror quickly becomes a shared feeling of burning resentment towards the metal wolf. ¡°No. I¡¯m so close to being free, I won¡¯t let you ruin it!¡±


    She can see that he is talking on a radio, his booming voice reaches up to her, but she can¡¯t make out everything he¡¯s saying. She definitely hears him utter her name. Right as she decides to carefully climb down from the roof into the tower through the window, she spots a person floating slightly above the forest. ¡°Andreas.¡± She doesn¡¯t pay much mind at first, as she remembers that crows can¡¯t see too well in the dark. For now, she is still hidden by darkness. He points something at one of the bastions, all she hears next is an ever so quiet groan from the bastion, followed by another one for each other bastion.


    Around thirty agents line up at the front door, pistols in hand, some stay behind for backup or maybe to pick off stragglers. The door is opened at Ludwig¡¯s command, the sound of gunshots breaking the comparative silence of the forest.


    Panic fills Solomon¡¯s heart. ¡°I have to go. I can¡¯t wait for Lumi. But Sheila¡­ Maybe there¡¯s still a chance for her.¡± She climbs through the window and hides under it where Andreas can¡¯t possibly see her. Judging by the sounds throughout the castle, she has to fight now. She does one last desperate attempt to possibly help herself and writes a quick message to Lisa: ¡°I need help. The enemy is here and they have Mystic Ones.¡± She knows for sure that they brought Andreas, but has no idea how many more they have at the scene. In an attempt to ease her mind, she quickly re-reads the last message she received from Lisa earlier: ¡°We¡¯re on our way, Rox!!¡±


    She prays that they aren¡¯t far from her now. She can¡¯t imagine herself getting through all those armed agents all by herself.


    She runs down the stairs, the sound of gunshots growing less frequent, but nonetheless present. After some wandering, at the bottom of a staircase, she sees five agents at the other side of what she presumes is the lounge. She is about to run back up the stairs when a gloved hand grabs her by the arm and pulls her aside. She sees the familiar outfit of Lumi slide a panel of ice closed. The bat holds a finger over where her mouth is.


    Now invisible to the agents, Solomon looks around the lounge. The place would indeed be cosy if it wasn¡¯t for the blood, empty bullet casings and dark ice crystals littering the room. From another entrance, she sees Rufina enter the room and hide behind one of the large ice crystals. If what Lumi told her is true, that should obscure her well enough.


    Guns drawn, the agents walk through the room, staying close to each other. Rufina quickly stands up and reaches out with her hands, her markings glowing.


    Solomon is certain the bat¡¯s dead when the agents aim at her, but their guns don¡¯t seem to work. She notices that it¡¯s as if wind is blowing on them. Their guns have a reddish brown substance all over them now, she thinks that it resembles... ¡°Rust!¡± Metal and wind¡­ She figures that whatever gust of wind she¡¯s blowing at them rusts metal. ¡°I can see why Ludwig is so afraid of her. I hope she''ll be safe.¡±


    After corroding the agents¡¯ guns, Rufina runs out of the room. To the surprise of everyone but Lumi, most likely, two groups of five cultists push down a pane of ice each on both sides of the lounge, sending the agents running. Lumi opens the ¡°door¡± for the two of them and practically drags Solomon out.


    ¡°Coast is clear.¡± She announces, the fabric muffling her voice slightly. ¡°Follow me. We¡¯ll get your little friend out.¡± Solomon nods as she follows Lumi through the many pockets of invisible ice she set up beforehand. She can¡¯t even begin to imagine how long it must have taken to do so. ¡°They must be quite durable¡­¡± She notices that the walls are placed between lanterns where their light doesn''t shine on them as much.


    ¡°Why¡­¡± Solomon cries, hearing the sound of agents and cultists alike. At least there are no more gunshots. ¡°Why now? We were so close¡­¡± She wipes a tear from her eyes.


    ¡°It doesn¡¯t matter. I¡¯ll get us out, a little earlier than I wanted to, but I will.¡± The bat reassures Solomon. She really doesn¡¯t like that she can¡¯t read her expression. It¡¯s hard to tell whether or not she¡¯s really certain of that or just saying that to make her feel better.


    On their way to the dungeon, Lumi stops every now and then to create a dark ice crystal for additional cover. Solomon looks out for any agents every time they stop. ¡°This is terrible¡­ Why couldn¡¯t you wait one more day? I¡¯d be gone and you¡¯d think I¡¯m dead!¡± The fact that the castle happened to get besieged on this exact night bothers her to no end. ¡±So close, yet so far¡­ But there¡¯s still a chance. We can still escape.¡±


    To Solomon, no sensation is quite like seeing half a dozen enemies run past her, unable to see her. She finds Lumi¡¯s technique fascinating, she can¡¯t imagine what might have happened if she didn¡¯t choose to entertain her curiosity earlier. She notices that some of the ice walls need Lumi to make an opening, others have them built-in. A few more stops to let the enemy pass and to let Lumi create more rough cover, and the dungeon door is in sight. Genesis doesn¡¯t seem to approve of her decision to help Sheila in this situation. What¡¯s starting to get to her isn¡¯t the cacophony of voices from both parties, but the lack of it in certain places of the castle. She hopes that the way outside won¡¯t be lined with corpses, she¡¯s seen more of them than anyone should see in their lifetime.


    ¡°Take this.¡± Says Lumi, producing a ring with many identical-looking keys on it. ¡°You¡¯ll need it. I¡¯ll stay here and hold off anyone who would enter.¡±


    Solomon dismisses her offer on the keys.


    ¡°No time for that, I have the master key.¡± She puts up a hand to display the marking on it and rushes inside. She doesn¡¯t stop running until she reaches Sheila¡¯s cell, immediately grasping the bars and powering up her magic. The bars start to dissolve with ease.


    ¡°Whoa there, what¡¯s going on? What¡¯s up with all the noise outside?¡± The lioness demands, looking terribly concerned.


    ¡°Your boss is here.¡± Says Solomon, making a hole large enough for Sheila to fit through. ¡°And he brought friends. Lots of them.¡± Sheila quickly goes through the opening Solomon made, the two then head outside immediately.


    ¡°The hell is he looking for here?!¡± Sheila says through laboured breathing.


    ¡°Me.¡± Solomon states matter-of-factly. ¡°He thinks I¡¯m his prize possession. That¡¯s not happening.¡±


    The two exit the dungeon, Lumi peeks her head out from a rough dark ice crystal. Solomon hears rushing footsteps from the left. ¡°Impeccable timing.¡± She dashes to the right, where Lumi is, expecting Sheila to follow. Instead, the lioness goes to the left.


    ¡°What are you doing?!¡± Solomon cries. The people on the left turn out to be agents as they turn the corner.


    ¡°Meet you outside!¡± Sheila exclaims as she runs towards the agents. Solomon really wants to shout at her to just come with them, but Lumi drags her away behind a proper dark ice wall. She feels like Genesis couldn¡¯t be more disappointed with her. ¡°Now¡¯s REALLY not the time.¡±


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    ¡°That was so worth it.¡± Lumi remarks. Solomon just feels hopeful that she did the right thing by releasing her.


    They push past cultists, who thankfully don¡¯t attack them. Before them, one robed figure collapses, a bolt sticking out of his chest. Solomon takes a quick peek through a nearby window and sees Andreas, who is shooting through the windows with a crossbow. When not behind one of Lumi¡¯s ice walls, they go under the windows to minimise the odds of getting shot.


    ¡°Where to now?¡± Solomon inquires as they stop behind an ice wall to catch their breaths.


    ¡°I made a little panic corner in each Study Room. We¡¯ll be safe in any of them, then we¡¯ll slip away once the situation has died down.¡± Lumi explains, likely not taking the heat under all those clothes well. ¡°Phew¡­ Didn¡¯t think I¡¯d need to do so much running tonight.¡±


    Solomon checks her map. A Study Room is mercifully close to them, only a couple of hallways and a spiral staircase away.


    ¡°Let¡¯s go then!¡± Solomon exclaims, putting Lumi¡¯s right hand on the ice wall. While shaking her head slightly, the bat makes an opening. The two rush through the hallways and the staircase without running into any opposition, ducking under windows. It doesn''t take more than a few minutes before they go through the door to a Study Room. It does, however, have large windows, granting an easy view both inside and outside.


    ¡°Not the most ideal, but it¡¯ll do.¡± Says Lumi, pulling a desk away from one of the corners. She then makes an opening on the wall that is placed at the corner. ¡°Not much space here, unfortunately.¡±


    On her way to their newfound hideout, Solomon glances through a window and sees that Andreas is apparently gone. That leaves her terribly anxious, he might as well be anywhere now! She looks through the other windows, but sees him in none of them, which leaves her more confused than concerned. She has no idea how fast he can move in the air, but from what she¡¯s seen, not very fast, pretty much just walking pace.


    ¡°He¡¯s gone.¡± She exclaims, hoping that she¡¯s indeed correct.


    ¡°Gone? Good.¡± Says Lumi, delighted and relieved as she sits down to have a short rest. ¡°We¡¯re safe from the outside, at least. Have to wonder where he went though¡­¡±


    Solomon continues reluctantly peering through the windows in order to see where the crow could be. What, or rather who she sees upon looking, however, proves to be just the sight she needed in this situation. Towards the bastion where she climbed up the first time, she sees someone she¡¯s been looking forward to seeing again for a good few days now.


    ¡°Lisa¡­!¡± She whispers to herself with the warmest feeling inside her. The wolf is climbing up the bastion where she melted a makeshift ladder into it, her cane hanging from her trousers. She cares not for how she got here, all she wants now is to get to her so they can leave together.


    ¡°If she¡¯s here, the others can¡¯t be too far either.¡±  Once she finally meets Lisa again, she won¡¯t let anything keep them apart in such a way. She feels like she needs to act, to keep her safe, to make sure they leave this cursed place behind together, alive. ¡°If anything were to happen to her¡­¡±


    Feeling safer with the crow gone, Lumi walks over and follows Solomon¡¯s gaze.


    ¡°Who is that?¡± She asks.


    ¡°Help.¡± Solomon responds in the simplest way she can. ¡°I need to get to her.¡± She turns to face Lumi. ¡°I may be asking for a lot¡­ But if you could, put regular ice all around the hallways. Be sure it¡¯ll melt, make the floor as wet as possible.¡± She orders in a tone that¡¯s uncharacteristically authoritative.


    ¡°Okay?¡± The bat responds in a somewhat puzzled tone. ¡°How will that help us?¡±


    ¡°It will. Trust me.¡± She smirks.


    The two of them leave the way they came from, Lumi leads Solomon to an intersection. The cat guesses that Lumi doesn¡¯t mind her plan being overwritten so fast.


    ¡°We¡¯ll part ways here.¡± Solomon announces. ¡°Stick to what I said.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll do what I can.¡± Says Lumi. Now especially, Solomon really wishes she could see her face. ¡°Keep an eye out for my ice walls. Some have their own little entrances, keep that in mind.¡±


    Solomon gives the bat a short, heartfelt hug, she can hardly even feel her heartbeat through all the clothing.


    ¡°Thank you.¡± Solomon whispers. ¡°Thank you for everything. Stay safe.¡±


    Lumi nods and briefly returns the hug before they part.


    ¡°Go meet your friend, then. I do hope to see you again!¡± Says Lumi, already erecting an ice crystal to be melted. ¡°Au revoir, Lumi Jarvinen.¡±


    Solomon follows the map as best as she can, running through hallways and climbing staircases. ¡°Whoever designed this place should be beheaded.¡± It doesn¡¯t help that the first three ice wall pockets she finds are apparently inaccessible to her. It almost leads to her capture or demise upon turning a corner and seeing three agents, causing her to have to hide by hanging off of a windowsill until they pass. Three ice walls. No opening. She either has the worst luck finding them, or Lumi designed them like it intentionally. That theory quickly becomes irrelevant when she finds a fourth one with just enough space for one person to enter at a time.


    Finally able to catch her breath, she makes sure to stand as far away from that opening as possible so no one can have a chance of seeing her. ¡°I really hope that Lisa isn¡¯t in trouble¡­¡±


    To her surprise, a familiar face appears on each side of the hallways she¡¯s in. One is Sheila, the other is Rufina. She considers exiting her hiding place to possibly have one or both of them team up with her. That¡¯s when Sheila rushes Rufina and shoots a tongue of flame in her direction. All of a sudden, she feels like she made a terrible mistake by releasing her.


    ¡°Not so fast!¡± Rufina blows Sheila¡¯s flame right back at her with the wind coming out of her hands. Neither does the lioness nor her suit catch on fire.


    ¡°Fireproof suit, darling. You thought I wouldn¡¯t account for this?¡± Her entire arm ignites after she says that, a ball of fire appearing in her palm. Solomon takes a quick glance at her own markings, as if to tell Genesis to be ready in case he¡¯s needed. Ready, he certainly feels, as well as disappointed and quite angry.


    ¡°Why are you doing this?!¡± Rufina demands, side-stepping a fireball that Sheila launches towards her.


    ¡°You of all people should know, Miss Ariti.¡± Sheila retorts, throwing another ball of fire. Rufina barely manages to dodge it, falling over in the process. ¡°I get things done. Anything to keep this job.¡± She says with a hint of regret in her voice as she throws a third one at her. Rufina tries to deflect it with her wind, but it¡¯s flying too fast for that. It hits her in the stomach right as she tries to get up, lighting her clothes on fire.


    ¡°Sorry it had to come to this.¡± Sheila turns around and starts walking away.


    Rufina screams, Solomon smiles. She can see that it¡¯s only her clothes that are on fire, her fur and body are unscathed. As she thrashes around for added effect, Genesis feels extremely uncomfortable just by watching.


    ¡°Target down, sir. You can enter safely.¡± Sheila says into a radio. ¡°I swear¡­¡±


    Rufina stops moving right before Sheila turns a corner, after which she gets up and quickly puts herself out. Her once white clothes are charred and burned, but they still serve their purpose well enough.


    While looking out for Sheila and more agents, Solomon sticks a hand through the opening, her marking facing Rufina. After she is finished putting out the last of the flames out on her trousers, the bat looks up and immediately seems to notice the seemingly floating hand. She smiles, quickly walks up to the ice wall, and enters through the opening. ¡°Sheila must have assumed that she¡¯s dead by now.¡±


    ¡°Rufina, I¡¯m so glad-¡± Solomon begins to say, but the bat cuts her off by pulling her into a hug, which she returns.


    ¡°Thank you¡­¡± She says through tears. ¡°You saved my life!¡± She sniffles and lets go of the cat. ¡°I will never forget this.¡±


    Solomon feels proud, incredibly so. Her power saved Rufina. Saved her! The so-called most destructive power in the world¡­ She proved them wrong. Proved the legends wrong, proved The System wrong, proved the ancient people who sentenced Genesis to death by fire wrong. ¡°Even though it wouldn¡¯t have been needed if I didn¡¯t release Sheila¡­¡±


    ¡°De rien, Rufina.¡± Solomon smiles, full of hope and pride. ¡°But I must go now. There¡¯s someone I have to meet.¡±


    ¡°You and me both.¡± The bat says with a frown. ¡°I won¡¯t stop until that bastard is reduced to dust.¡± She states, turning to leave. Solomon knows exactly who she¡¯s talking about.


    ¡°Send him my regards if you can.¡± She adds.


    ¡°No promises!¡± Rufina chuckles and runs down the hallways, certainly to go and take out Ludwig. ¡°I¡¯d pay to see that.¡±


    Solomon leaves her hiding spot and sets her sight on one goal for the time being: Lisa.

 Chapter 23 - Unite

    Solomon continues following the castle map, being forced to turn in a different direction due to running into agents a few too many times for her liking. A right here, up a staircase there, two lefts, then another right. ¡°You can¡¯t design something this confusing by accident.¡± She soon finds herself on a more familiar staircase, the same one she went down the first time she arrived here. Excitement rushes over her as she runs up the stairs taking two steps at a time, ignoring the slight pain in her legs from all the running she¡¯s done already. ¡°Please don¡¯t tell me I¡¯m too late¡­¡±


    She reaches the top of the stairs and runs to the end of the hallway. There, she turns left and quite literally runs into Lisa, causing the cat to fall onto her back. The wolf takes a step back and grasps the handle of her cane, about to unsheathe the sword inside, no doubt. Then she notices that the person in white she just ran into is Solomon and smiles wide.


    The feline gasps as she sees the wolf she has missed so much, wearing her usual trench coat, chequered trousers, and hat. She feels so much joy just from seeing her again, she immediately stands up and embraces Lisa with tears in her eyes, burying her face in her coat. Lisa returns the hug, although much more relaxed. Solomon says nothing and lets herself just enjoy the moment.


    ¡°Tryin¡¯ out a new style, eh?¡± Lisa says in a tone so inappropriately casual, if anyone else said it, Solomon would find it deeply insulting. ¡°I don¡¯t think ¡°lunatic¡± fits you all that well though.¡±


    Solomon looks up at her, crying tears of joy. Luxor¡¯s light may give her the purest form of happiness, but it¡¯s nothing compared to the genuine bliss Lisa¡¯s smile makes her feel at that moment.


    ¡°I missed you so much¡­!¡± The cat manages to say through her gentle sobbing, tightening her hug. She feels an awkward, but warm feeling from Genesis.


    ¡°Genesis!¡± The thought hits her suddenly, realising the implications. She can¡¯t hide the shock in her expression.


    ¡°I missed ya too, Rox.¡± Says Lisa, her tail wagging vigorously. ¡°We came as soon as you messaged us the other day. Let¡¯s go hit the road, yeah?¡± She suggests.


    Solomon pulls away, her expression turning stoic. ¡°I¡¯ll deal with Genesis later. First, we get out.¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡± The cat says with a nod. ¡°Time to get out of here.¡±


    With no time to waste, they start running back the way Lisa came from, the door to the bastion wide open. So wide, in fact, that they easily spot the trapdoor swing open. Agents pour out the door, yelling about capturing the Acid One.


    ¡°Why can¡¯t it be easy for once?¡± Says Lisa, exasperated. They both turn around and begin running in the opposite direction.


    ¡°Follow me!¡± She shouts, taking out the map, trying to make out where she came from. ¡°If Lumi did as I asked, we¡¯ll be safe.¡± A left, two rights, a staircase down, then another left.


    ¡°I¡¯d like to have a long conversation with whoever built this place!¡± Lisa exclaims, likely confused just by following Solomon around the labyrinthian building.


    Just then, Solomon feels her feet get wet. Looking down the hall they¡¯re in, she sees remnants of ice. To her, it fully confirms that she can trust Lumi.


    ¡°Lisa, you can choose which part of you is electrified, right?¡± She asks.


    The wolf nods, picking up on Solomon¡¯s idea immediately.


    ¡°Smart.¡± She remarks as the sound of footsteps behind them grow louder. They go on, farther down in the wet hallways. Solomon quickly flips a table that must have been used as a barricade onto its legs and climbs onto it. Right after, they see the agents turn a corner and run towards them, completely disregarding the water.


    Lisa snaps her fingers, leaning on her cane as she powers up her magic. The agents realise what¡¯s about to happen all too late. Arcs of electricity can be seen around Lisa¡¯s feet, electrifying the entire hallway floor in a fraction of a second. Solomon watches in awe as the agents convulse and fall to the floor mere seconds after. Lisa then powers down and turns to face Solomon, smiling like she didn¡¯t just, at the very least, knock out around seven people.


    She eyes the agents on the floor. Dead? Unconscious? She cannot tell. All she wants now is to leave with her friends, and hopefully future girlfriend, alive.


    ¡°Should we bring this in case more show up?¡± Solomon asks as she gets down from the table, tapping on it.


    ¡°I¡¯ll raise ya something much easier.¡± Lisa steps towards the cat, and to her surprise, simply picks her up and holds her in her arms. Solomon feels admittedly flustered by the experience, in any other situation, she¡¯d find it quite romantic.


    ¡°You know, this works too.¡± Solomon says with a slight blush. ¡°I¡¯ll have to tell her sooner or later.¡±


    She provides directions as the wolf carries her around the castle the sound of struggling and fighting throughout the castle picking up in volume. Every time agents or cultists show up, Lisa electrifies the water, and every time, Solomon holds on for dear life, truly grasping the extent of Lisa¡¯s power. Even Genesis feels nervous during it. Solomon herself may have the power of acid, as destructive as it can be, it can still be defeated easily in the right circumstances.


    They walk down a hallway, and at the end of an intersection at the end, she sees someone run past. Someone very familiar.


    ¡°Wait!¡± Solomon says to Lisa, so she doesn¡¯t electrify the water. The person at the intersection stops to look. Without a doubt, it is Grayson. He merely nods at Solomon before going wherever he was planning to go. She really wants to stop and berate him, as Sheila is proven to cause some complications¡­ But she decides against it, leaving him none the wiser.


    ¡°...farewell, Grayson.¡± Solomon sheds a single tear as Lisa carries her on. If nothing else, the thought of the two of them being together motivates her even more.


    ¡°So, who was that?¡± Lisa asks.


    ¡°Just a friend. Don¡¯t worry.¡± Solomon assures her.


    ¡°If you say so, Rox.¡±


    Eventually, the two reach a part of the castle where the floor is no longer wet. ¡°This is as far as Lumi has gotten. So be it.¡±


    ¡°We have to go through here now.¡± Solomon taps the map with her index finger. ¡°Then we¡¯ll be closer to an exit, according to this.¡±


    Lisa carefully puts her down. ¡°Really could have used more of that.¡±


    ¡°Have to say, not a fan of this place.¡± Lisa remarks. ¡°To put it mildly.¡±


    After taking a few steps, they no longer leave wet footprints.


    ¡°I¡¯ll tell you all about what happened later.¡± Solomon offers. The sounds of fighting are the quietest here so far, a long hallway, easy to spot any potential foes. Solomon feels confident in her and Lisa¡¯s ability to defend themselves, so a thought lingers in her mind. ¡°Maybe it¡¯s not the best time for this¡­ But I want her to know, in case we don¡¯t make it.¡±


    ¡°Lisa¡­¡± Solomon stops, the wolf turns around to look at her. Solomon steps towards her and pulls her into a hug once again. ¡°I have to tell you something¡­¡± She sighs, having collected her thoughts. Lisa waits for her to speak with an inquisitive look. ¡°Here we go¡­¡±


    Solomon opens her mouth to speak, but notices something behind Lisa at the end of the hallway. She leans to the right to look and sees Sheila, right arm practically on fire, launching a ball of fire, precisely in their direction.


    With a gasp and one motion, Solomon takes off her infused robes and throws it over Lisa. Right as the fire makes contact with the robe, it disperses. Lisa quickly turns around to face the one-eyed lioness. ¡°How can she be so accurate with one eye?¡±


    Terror fills Solomon¡¯s heart, but it¡¯s quickly replaced with anger, both hers and Genesis¡¯. She steps between Lisa and Sheila, hissing with her claws bared.


    ¡°Don¡¯t make this harder than it has to be, Solomon.¡± Says the lioness in the same, regretful tone.


    ¡°What the hell is wrong with you?!¡± Solomon cries, emotions in turmoil. ¡°Even after I helped you¡­¡±


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    ¡°Please, step away from her. I don¡¯t want to hurt you.¡± Sheila indeed, doesn¡¯t try to fire another projectile. She stands there at the end of the corridor, waiting.


    ¡°Too damn bad!¡± Solomon yells, voice breaking slightly. ¡°You¡¯ll have to get through me if you want to get to her!¡± She stands before Lisa, trying to cover as much of her as she can.


    ¡°You have to understand.¡± Sheila begins to say, keeping distance. ¡°If you hand her over, everything will go back to normal! Not just for me, but you as well! And if you don¡¯t¡­ He¡¯ll make sure my life will be in shambles.¡±


    Solomon feels like she understands a fraction of what Genesis felt from the betrayal, united in his pain. She has a pretty good guess on why the lioness is trying to hunt down Lisa.


    ¡°How could you listen to him?!¡± She yells through tears, flicking her tail. ¡°After all he¡¯s done¡­ After all you¡¯ve said, how can you still support him?! What was any of that about a change in leadership?¡±


    ¡°It doesn¡¯t matter.¡± Says Sheila, making her right arm into a flaming fist. ¡°Rufina¡¯s dead. Only you could stop him now. Or you could get a fresh start! Have all your failures pardoned!¡±


    ¡°And you believe that?¡± Solomon scoffs. ¡°You really choose to believe that?¡± She takes a step towards her, Genesis can seemingly hardly wait to fight her.


    ¡°Work with me, Solomon.¡± A ball of fire ignites in Sheila¡¯s hand. ¡°I know what your techniques are. She needs a conductor, you need to be close. I have the range advantage!¡±


    Her words cut deep, Solomon can feel twofold anger rise within her. Surely, Lisa can protect herself from the fire while she deals with Sheila¡­


    ¡°Yeah, right.¡± Lisa says in a mocking tone.


    Solomon hears the distinct sound of a sword being unsheathed, followed by the sound of crackling electricity. On the wall, she sees blue light. Ahead, a mix of surprise and fear on Sheila¡¯s face.


    She quickly glances over her shoulder and sees that Lisa¡¯s sword shines blue, arcs of electricity jump around and off of it. There isn¡¯t nearly as much energy inside it as there was in the generator back at that house, but she could still deliver a powerful shock using it, if she had to guess.


    Lisa steps to the side and points the sword at the lioness. Sheila winds back her arm to throw fire, but she¡¯s not nearly fast enough. Lisa taps the sword and rather than absorbing it, the energy violently shoots forward from the sword in the form of a bolt of electricity, hitting the lioness in the face. She falls to the floor, grasping at her face.


    Stunned at what Lisa just did, Solomon senses that Genesis is terribly pleased.


    ¡°How¡¯d you do that?¡± She asks, half impressed, half confused.


    ¡°A little trick I learned.¡± Lisa sheathes her sword. ¡°That ¡°blessing¡± you told me about, it¡¯s quite handy, I tell ya.¡± She smirks.


    Solomon looks over at Sheila. Unlike with the rest, she can immediately tell that somehow, she¡¯s not dead. Her body would be nothing but ash now. Upon walking closer, she hears quiet sobs from the lioness, who lifts her head and looks around frantically, breathing heavily.


    ¡°No, not again!¡± She cries out. ¡°Was one not enough?!¡± gets up on her knees, looking in their general direction, but not specifically at either of them.


    ¡°How are you even alive?¡± Lisa crosses her arms, more annoyed than scared.


    ¡°You¡­ Bitch!¡± Sheila shouts. ¡°My eyes¡­¡±


    Solomon can see even from a distance that the bolt hit her right in her good eye. By all means, she should be dead, but somehow, she only lost vision. She shouldn¡¯t, she feels like she really shouldn¡¯t, but she feels miniscule pity for the lioness.


    ¡°Now to be fair¡­¡± Lisa says as Solomon walks over to Sheila with a grim expression, following closely behind her. ¡°I wasn¡¯t aiming for that. Not my fault you happened to turn right then, eh?¡± She explains, shrugging.


    ¡°Shut up! Just shut up!¡± Sheila buries her face in her hands, weeping.


    Solomon walks right up to her and forcefully puts her hand around her neck, bringing her down to the ground. The lioness doesn¡¯t try to fight back, she¡¯s resigned to her fate of a painful death by acid.


    ¡°It would have been so much easier if you just¡­¡± Solomon sighs. ¡°Listened.¡±


    She considers powering up her magic, something inside her tells her that she really, really deserves it. She thinks about it for a long moment, judging by Genesis¡¯ emotions, she can tell that he wants her dead. It would be so easy to end her for this betrayal¡­


    But she doesn¡¯t.


    ¡°Know who you¡¯re dealing with.¡± Solomon pulls her hand away, sensing that Genesis is terribly furious. ¡°I could kill you right here and now. But I won¡¯t, I promised to get you out.¡± She stands up, Sheila goes from sobbing to breaking down completely. ¡°Despite everything you¡¯ve done, I¡¯ll still do that.¡±


    She gives Sheila time to cry as she turns to Lisa, who seems to question her decision.


    ¡°Now, I respect that¡­¡± Says the wolf. ¡°But bloody hell, I¡¯d just kill her if I were you.¡±


    Solomon then feels Sheila grab her legs.


    ¡°Please¡­¡± She says, pleading, looking up at Solomon with her one uncovered, blind eye. ¡°He¡¯ll kill me¡­ He still would have for failing the mission¡­¡± She wipes tears from her face. ¡°Unless I dealt with one of them. Like her.¡± She reaches out with her left arm and points right at Lisa.


    The wolf takes a long step to the side.


    ¡°I ain¡¯t there.¡± She says with a grin, Sheila¡¯s arm follows her voice to point at her.


    ¡°Please¡­¡± The lioness continues pleading. ¡°I regret it¡­ I regret all of it!¡± She shouts. Genesis practically begs the cat to just end it.


    Solomon¡¯s frown turns to a slight smile, but Sheila can¡¯t tell that. She reaches down, takes her hands in hers, and helps her stand up.


    ¡°I made a promise to Grayson. Unlike Ludwig, I¡¯ll keep it.¡± Sheila puts her arms around Solomon, her fur soaking up the lioness¡¯ tears. ¡°As much as you don¡¯t deserve that.¡± She adds with a frown, making Sheila awfully perturbed. ¡°Seriously, try that again and I just might change my mind.¡±


    ¡°Right then.¡± Lisa chimes in. ¡°Now that you can really see the consequences of your actions, let¡¯s get the hell out of here.¡± She taps her cane twice on the ground.


    Sheila turns her head towards Lisa.


    ¡°I hate you¡­ So much¡­¡± She says weakly.


    Solomon nods at Lisa and takes Sheila¡¯s hand, leading her.


    ¡°Hold on.¡± Solomon notices that Sheila still has her radio. ¡°Tell the old man that we¡¯re both dead and you¡¯re mortally wounded.¡± She senses that Genesis is pleased by her idea. ¡°That way, he won¡¯t be looking for us actively.¡±


    Sheila hesitates, but then feels around on her side for the radio and takes it in her hand. She presses one button and speaks through laboured breathing. Solomon isn¡¯t sure how much she¡¯s faking that.


    ¡°Sir¡­¡± The lioness begins to say. ¡°I got the wolf as well¡­ But Solomon died too.¡± She pauses for a response, but there is none. ¡°They got me good¡­ I¡¯m not sure I¡¯ll make it.¡± She adds, but there is still no response.


    Not from Ludwig, anyway.


    ¡°Come out into the darkness.¡± Says a voice that Solomon is familiar with. ¡°There is some kind of priest here. He will help you, sire.¡±


    Sheila pauses in confusion along with the cat. ¡°Why is Father helping them?¡±


    ¡°What about Ludwig?¡± She inquires in a much less convincing voice. ¡°Why isn¡¯t he responding?¡±


    ¡°I can get you out, Sheila.¡± Says a voice belonging to Benedict. ¡°Shaquia¡¯s plan is going a little too well, by the sounds of it.¡±


    Solomon realises that his voice isn¡¯t just heard through the radio, but right around the corner as well, coupled with the sudden sound of hurried footsteps. ¡°They¡¯re also here?¡±


    The raccoon turns the corner and sees all three of them, alive and mostly well. He looks terribly confused.


    ¡°Sheila? Solomon?¡± He blushes and covers his eyes with one arm, turning away. ¡°Show us some decency, Solomon!¡± He exclaims.


    The cat realises that her robe is still on Lisa.


    ¡°Prude.¡± The wolf remarks as she hands Solomon her robes, which she quickly puts on. ¡°Who is that anyway?¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re not¡­¡± Benedict properly notices the wolf, making no attempt to attack, stopping when he gets a better look at the lioness. ¡°Sheila! Your other eye!¡±


    ¡°I can tell, Benedict.¡± Says Sheila, annoyed. ¡°We¡¯re getting out of here. Be my eyes, please.¡± The raccoon walks up to her, takes her hand, and makes sure that his radio is off.


    ¡°Solomon!¡± He says, turning to look at her with a smile. ¡°Ludwig¡¯s gone totally mad. He learned that not only have you failed, but agents also reported to have seen the people who destroyed Lion¡¯s Den here in Spain.¡±


    ¡°How¡¯d he even come here?¡± Solomon questions. ¡°Everyone else I came here with died! Other than Sheila.¡±


    ¡°I was told that she sent him the coordinates.¡± Says Benedict, causing Solomon and Lisa to both frown at her. She may not be able to see them, but she can certainly tell that they¡¯re not too happy about it, judging by her awkward look.


    ¡°That was when we arrived! Those were my orders, okay?¡± She argues. ¡°I don¡¯t care about that anymore, I want to get out of here!¡±


    The four of them then begin walking down the hallways, Solomon leading the way.


    ¡°How come Ludwig brought you?¡± Solomon inquires. ¡°Don¡¯t you have more important things to do back at your HQ?¡±


    ¡°We already go out on missions, but he¡¯s lost it.¡± Benedict begins to say with furrowed brows. ¡°He wanted to show us that he knows better and how it¡¯s aaaaall our fault somehow. We¡¯ve had enough of his reasoning.¡± He pulls on Sheila¡¯s hand as they turn a corner so that she doesn¡¯t run into a wall. ¡°I¡¯m not sure what Andreas meant either. I get that he doesn¡¯t see all that well in the dark, but¡­¡± He stops in his tracks along with Sheila, looking out a window.


    ¡°What?¡± The lioness asks, a tiny bit of impatience in her voice.


    ¡°Oh¡­¡± Benedict says with a horrified expression. ¡°That darkness¡­¡±


    Solomon and Lisa rush over to the window and look outside. The forest around the castle is covered in a thick veil of darkness, only the semi-lit clearing around it is free from it, right at the edge of the trees. ¡°I can only imagine what Lumi will think once she sees this.¡±


    ¡°What is it?¡± Sheila asks. ¡°I can¡¯t see, what is it?¡± Her voice sounding more worried due to the silence from the others.


    ¡°We¡¯ll soon be safe. That¡¯s what that is.¡± Lisa smirks, looking proudly into the darkness. ¡°Also, my ex.¡± She adds.


    Benedict eyes her, exceedingly concerned.


    ¡°Once we¡¯re out there, it¡¯ll all be fine.¡± Solomon says, hopeful. That darkness, Thalia¡¯s darkness, that¡¯s where their freedom is. ¡°Are you in?¡± She glances at Benedict.


    ¡°Oh, so you blind me, but ask him to stick around?¡± Sheila chimes in. Solomon feels Genesis¡¯ anger rising.


    ¡°To be fair, he has yet to throw any balls of fire at us.¡± Says Lisa, causing Sheila to softly whimper and stop talking. ¡°How come you know these guys anyway, Rox?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s¡­ A long story.¡± Says the cat. ¡°So, are you in?¡±


    ¡°Better than Ludwig.¡± The raccoon argues and shakes hands with Solomon.


    ¡°Alright. Let¡¯s leave this place, once and for all.¡±

 Chapter 24 - Sacrosanct

    ¡°Once we arrive there, stick to the plan, everyone.¡± Says Adelar, making his way through the dense forest surrounding the castle in which Solomon is kept. He¡¯s closely followed by his employees and Thalia.


    ¡°What if they have any defences around?¡± The panther asks, clearly worried.


    ¡°Solomon didn¡¯t mention anything like that.¡± Adelar replies, hoping that the cat was right.


    ¡°Be on the lookout anyway.¡± Lisa adds. ¡°Don¡¯t want to get buggered by a trap or somethin¡¯.¡±


    Right then, Adelar hears a familiar voice from deeper inside the woods. He gestures to the others to stop.


    ¡°This voice¡­¡± Says Adelar. Keeping as quiet as they can, they go towards the direction of the voice. It¡¯s getting unmistakable, the loud voice of Ludwig is heard through the forest.


    ¡°We¡¯re close.¡± He whispers, his expression that of anger. ¡°How did he beat us here?¡±


    ¡°The wolf from that so-called ¡°financing company¡±?¡± Yaroslav asks after taking a step towards Adelar.


    ¡°Exactly. I¡¯ll go and try to get some info.¡± Without waiting for a response, he begins walking closer to the voice, listening intently. He can now even see the massive castle Solomon mentioned in her message. He stops and hides behind a particularly thick tree upon spotting people from Ludwig¡¯s organisation, close enough to catch what he¡¯s saying, mostly.


    ¡°For those who didn¡¯t hear me the first time¡­¡± Says the voice of Ludwig. ¡°Get in. Find the Acid One. Bring me back my cat, leave all else dead.¡± Adelar peeks out from the tree and sees agents from the organisation. Thalia has already caught up to him, hiding behind a large bush close by. He sees many agents in the forest right before the clearing. Twenty¡­ Thirty¡­ Maybe even more than that.


    ¡°And if any of her little ¡°friends¡± dare to show up here, you have permission¡­¡± Ludwig pauses. ¡°No, I order you to kill them.¡± Adelar moves his head back behind the tree. ¡°I admit, it was foolish of me to just let them go, but I didn¡¯t think they¡¯d have the knowledge or guts to come here.¡± He says with resentment in his voice.


    The eagle is then startled by a sound coming from directly above him. He looks up and through the canopy, he spots someone with a crossbow, just standing in the air. He glances at Thalia, who must be seeing the same thing. He hears the same sound three more times: a crossbow being fired.


    ¡°And for those that haven¡¯t seen the Acid One before: female cat with cream and white fur. Unmistakable green spirals on her hands. Do not disappoint me.¡± The silver wolf declares and orders most of the agents to line up at the main entrance. Among them, Adelar sees a familiar figure: the snow lynx he also saw at Ludwig¡¯s building.


    The agents practically break down the door, the silence is broken by the sound of gunshots and shouting. The rest of Adelar¡¯s group has caught up, laying low, staying so quiet that not a breath can be heard.


    ¡°Right.¡± Lisa says in an authoritative tone, the sound of gunfire muffling the conversation. ¡°I¡¯ll go climb up where Solomon did. You¡­¡± She looks at Yaroslav. ¡°You approach from the right. Try to find another entrance. Father, Thali, you stay here and watch out for any dickheads coming this way.¡± She then points at Durazo. ¡°Especially you, Father, Solomon really doesn¡¯t want you in there. And you¡­¡± She looks at Adelar with a smug smile. ¡°You go do your thing.¡±


    They all nod in agreement. The plan is set into motion, Lisa goes to the left side of the clearing, staying in the woods. Yaroslav does the same with the right side.


    Adelar observes the castle for many minutes, the sound of fighting growing quieter and quieter, listening for anything else Ludwig might say.


    ¡°Why are you not going in there¡­¡± He asks himself quietly as he eyes his former partner in business. He then glances at the castle windows and sees people in white robes getting shot down by the person above, as well as the agents going through the castle. One person catches his eye. One that looks very much like the feline they¡¯re here for.


    ¡°I swear that¡¯s her¡­¡± For just a moment, he sees a person who¡¯s without a doubt Solomon in a white robe, following someone else in beige clothes. ¡°It has to be her.¡± He mutters, turning to Thalia and Durazo, the sound of the crossbow above slightly startling him each time.


    ¡°I¡¯ll get him down.¡± Says the panther, Adelar shoots her a questioning look in response, but then her fur turns black. Not just her fur, her eyes, claws, the clothes she¡¯s wearing¡­ Every part of her is dark.


    Moreover, thick, obscuring darkness spreads from her. Adelar watches, more impressed than frightened, Durazo takes a step back, not taking the situation well.


    ¡°Don¡¯t be scared, it¡¯s still me.¡± Says the voice of Thalia from inside the spreading gloom. It engulfs the trees around her, forming a perfectly circular, imperceptible area of darkness. Adelar hears movement from inside going up and up quickly. He looks at the person standing in the air, aiming the crossbow towards another would-be victim when Thalia¡¯s figure, completely dark, illuminated by moonlight, jumps out from the canopy. She grabs him and drags him down to the ground, barely making any sound other than some branches breaking.


    The darkness retreats, revealing Thalia holding a crow¡¯s beak closed, weighing him down with her body.


    ¡°Sir.¡±¡¯ Says a female voice coming from Ludwig¡¯s direction, spoken through a radio, judging by the staticky sound of the voice. ¡°I found Sheila.¡± Adelar peers through the woods to look at him, he doesn¡¯t look like he expected to hear that.


    ¡°Give her a spare.¡± He barks, looking at the castle with vitriol and hatred.


    Meanwhile, Durazo goes to help Thalia keep the crow on the ground and silent.


    ¡°Sir!¡± Says another female voice, presumably Sheila. ¡°I managed to escape, but-¡± She is cut off by Ludwig.


    ¡°You failed me, Sheila.¡± He says in a cold tone, more quietly, Adelar can hardly hear what he says exactly. ¡°And unlike Solomon, as much as I hate it that she isn¡¯t, you are replaceable.¡± There is no response from the radio for a long moment.


    As they converse, Adelar hears Thalia talk to the crow, who talks back in a whisper, rather than call for help. He finds that strange, but he listens to Ludwig¡¯s conversation and not the one behind him.


    ¡°...the situation is dire, sir.¡± Sheila says in a remorseful voice. Adelar can see Ludwig already getting angry with her responding. ¡°The Lightborn leader is extremely powerful! Not just that, but Rufina is here too!¡±


    ¡°Really?¡± Says Ludwig, the mere mention of the name makes him growl. ¡° So the intel was correct. Very well, I will give you one more chance. Bring me back my cat and kill Rufina. Also kill every one of those little pests who destroyed my best front if they dare to show up here. I doubt you forgot what they look like.¡± He orders. If Adelar had teeth, rather than a beak, he would grit them. ¡°If you want to keep your position, that is.¡±


    There is a long pause after he says that.


    ¡°Understood, sir.¡± Says the voice of Sheila, sounding a lot less enthusiastic.


    Adelar turns around to look at the others upon noticing the lack of sound from any of them. To his surprise, the crow not only isn¡¯t resisting, but he¡¯s sitting on the ground with the other two standing over him.


    ¡°Here for Solomon, sire?¡± He asks, also keeping quiet.


    After a moment, Adelar nods in response, although questioning the crow¡¯s motives.


    ¡°So is he. Pray that he does not succeed or we¡¯ll all be in trouble.¡±


    ¡°He won¡¯t.¡± Adelar scoffs. ¡°I¡¯ll see to it.¡±


    ¡°How come you give up on him so easily?¡± Durazo asks the crow.


    ¡°Being paid just about the same wage despite promotions for ten years will do that, sire.¡± He explains. Thalia nods in agreement, Durazo sighs in disapproval.


    ¡°I expected no less from him.¡± Adelar remarks, pleased to see that this particular ally of his isn¡¯t very loyal to him.


    They lay low in the woods for a few more minutes with no movement from Ludwig or any of his agents. They stay around him, standing guard.


    ¡°Why is he not going in?¡± Adelar asks the crow, annoyed.


    ¡°Someone in there has the power of rust. He has the power of metal. Not a good combination, sire.¡±


    ¡°Ah.¡± Adelar leans against the tree, waiting.


    ¡°Target down, sir. You can enter safely.¡± Says a voice through the radio, which Ludwig looks delighted to hear.


    ¡°Excellent work, Sheila.¡± He says into the radio, then gestures for the remaining agents to come and gather. ¡°Stay here. You see anything suspicious, investigate. I¡¯m getting my cat back, this is taking too long.¡± Having said that, he turns around and walks inside the castle, closing the doors.


    ¡°Are you wounded?¡± Durazo asks the crow. He rolls up his left sleeve to reveal bruises.


    ¡°What are you doing, Father?¡± Thalia asks, slightly concerned.


    ¡°Helping those in need.¡± He puts his hand on the bruise and powers up his magic, it shines brightly in the woods. ¡°Also known as a distraction.¡±


    The panther nods, understanding what he meant. Colour drains from her once again, darkness spreads, obscuring the area around them as agents come to investigate the strange light in the woods. The crow watches in awe, looking as if he recognises this power. Thalia leaves an area uncovered where Durazo can work. On a whim, he tries to shine his light into her darkness, but it gets absorbed by it.


    Anyone who enters her ever-growing darkness is soon thrown inside this area, the first one being a meerkat.


    ¡°Cooperate, if you want to live.¡± Says the ex-priest, gesturing to him to come closer.


    ¡°Listen to him, sire.¡± The crow adds.


    With a deep breath, Adelar steps into the darkness, towards the castle.


    ¡°You¡¯ll get what¡¯s coming to you¡­¡± He stumbles through the trees, only one thing on his mind. ¡°Your reign ends today, Ludwig.¡± He reaches the clearing not long after and due to the opposition being gone,  walks up to the main entrance and puts his hands on the massive double door. Straining ever so slightly, he pushes on the doors, opening them with a loud creak.


    Inside, he sees Ludwig talking in a not so civil manner to a white fox. Adelar is taken aback by the sheer height of the fox, likely over two metres, wearing a white robe and a long loincloth. Both of them turn to look at him as he enters, Ludwig starts laughing with his back turned to the fox.


    ¡°Would you look at that.¡± Says Ludwig. ¡°The two people who I want dead the most right now, all in the same room.¡± He smiles a toothy grin. ¡°How delightful.¡±


    If you find this story on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen. Please report the infringement.


    Adelar powers up his magic, in his hand appears a long strand of fire. With one motion, he cracks it like a whip, causing a tiny explosion akin to that of a firecracker at the end.


    Ludwig laughs even harder.


    ¡°I¡¯ll give you that, Johannes¡­¡± Ludwig begins to say, completely ignoring the fox. ¡°Showing up for my prize with that, it¡¯s quite daring. I don¡¯t know how you got to know that, but-¡±


    ¡°You are talking to ME!¡± The fox says, deeply insulted, and points at Ludwig. From the tip of his finger comes out a thin beam of light. Before it can hit Ludwig, his entire body becomes covered in the colour of silver.


    Then, with a bored look, he turns around to face the fox again. Where the beam of light touched his body, it looks like heated metal, he seems completely unbothered by it. He casually walks up to the fox, who has since added another beam from his other hand. He puts his hands around the sides of the fox¡¯s neck and breaks it with a loud crack. He falls to the ground, but Adelar stands there stoically.


    ¡°Now then¡­¡± Ludwig dusts off his hands and begins walking over to Adelar. ¡°Sorry to keep you waiting.¡± He grins, rushing over to the eagle.


    Adelar cracks the fire whip at the silver wolf, which he brushes off at first, then attempts to grasp it when he sees that it is wrapped around his neck. He laughs as the fire is severed where it¡¯s touched, disappearing from around him. It then regrows to its full length in Adelar¡¯s hand.


    ¡°Courage doesn¡¯t make up for power, Johannes.¡± Ludwig chuckles.


    ¡°We¡¯re just getting started!¡± Adelar retorts, then his expression turns shocked as he is looking at the wolf, or rather, past him.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡± Ludwig stares at him mockingly.


    ¡°You brought this upon yourself by coming here!¡± A snap is heard from behind him, which intrigues him enough to make him turn around. There, the white fox is standing, tilting his head to the right, then left.


    ¡°What in the¡­¡± Ludwig says with a hint of confusion in his voice.


    ¡°Poor animal! You understand nothing!¡± The fox exclaims and puts four fingers on each hand together. A beam shoots out from each of them, all concentrated on the same spot: Ludwig¡¯s chest.


    The wolf howls in pain, it actually seems to hurt him. Adelar smiles and hits him with the fire whip again. That, however, seems entirely ineffective.


    Ludwig steps to the side, the beams of light hit the floor uncomfortably close to Adelar, he takes a few steps back as a result.


    Ludwig runs at the fox, now properly infuriated. He grabs the fox¡¯s hand and his shoulder with the other. With one sickening crunch, his entire arm is torn off.


    ¡°Try using your lasers now.¡± He holds up the fox¡¯s arm, only for it to start shining with white light. Looking at the fox, Adelar sees that he isn¡¯t too bothered by the fact that he¡¯s one arm short. In fact, he is looking at Ludwig the same way an educator might look upon someone who, out of all the answers, chose the worst one due to ignorance. The spot where his arm used to be starts shining as well, the torn off arm disappears in the light and appears back in its place, on the fox.


    ¡°That is not it either.¡± The white fox says with a shrug, then returns to using his beams of light on the wolf.


    As Ludwig winds his fist back, Adelar sends the whip¡¯s business end flying at him. It coils around his wrist, keeping him from hitting the fox, who is repositioning to a doorway in the hall.


    ¡°Your brutish strength is feeble compared to the divine judgement which I cast down upon HERETICS LIKE YOU!¡± The fox exclaims in a condescending tone.


    The outer layer of the spot where Ludwig is hit begins to melt. Furious from the fox¡¯s resilience and Adelar continued resistance, he severs the whip again and rushes the fox, now taking him as an actual threat.


    ¡°I can¡¯t just kill you? Fine, have it your way.¡± He grabs the fox¡¯s hand and brings him to the ground. He then punches the castle wall repeatedly until a large chunk of stone comes off. He throws it onto the hands of the fox, then another onto his chest, keeping him down. The fox only seems to look upset from the fact that he can¡¯t fight Ludwig like this.


    ¡°Foolish!¡± The fox yells, struggling to get out. ¡°For your sins, you shall suffer!¡±


    ¡°Now isn¡¯t that better?¡± Says Ludwig, turning to face Adelar. ¡°We can finally begin properly!¡±


    ¡°Sir.¡± Says a female voice through Ludwig¡¯s radio, which seems to annoy him greatly. ¡°I found the bear.¡±


    ¡°Whatever, take him out already!¡± He yells into the radio.


    ¡°Even your own employees get to you? You haven¡¯t changed one bit, Ludwig.¡± Adelar remarks.


    ¡°Oh, you have no idea just how much I¡¯ve changed.¡± As Ludwig says that, Adelar walks closer and cracks the whip, the end of it wrapping around the wolf¡¯s arms and torso collectively. Ludwig simply put his arms apart, snapping it again.


    ¡°You make this too easy.¡± Ludwig lets Adelar hit him with the whip on his metal body as he slowly walks over to him. Before the eagle could put more distance between them, Ludwig rushes in and punches him in the chest, knocking him to a wall behind him. The fox watches on with his head turned to the side.


    ¡°Banish this foul beast and you will receive amnesty for your trespassing!¡± He shouts to Adelar, who is now on the floor, coughing up blood. ¡°Your God demands it!¡±


    Adelar briefly glances at the fox as Ludwig walks up to him, his drivel not helping in the slightest.


    ¡°It was a valiant effort.¡± Ludwig states. ¡°I shall finish you with my own-¡±


    Adelar smiles and powers himself back up. The newly appeared whip wraps around his feet, Adelar forcefully tugs on it once. Ludwig falls to the ground, the eagle gets up with a burst of adrenaline. He retracts the whip and cracks it again right into Ludwig¡¯s face. The small explosion still can¡¯t do any real damage.


    The silver wolf then slowly stands back up, growling.


    ¡°I¡¯m done playing with you.¡± The wolf runs after Adelar, who has moved to the fox, clutching at his chest before trying to move the stones off of him. Seeing how that¡¯s entirely ineffective in his current state, he runs through the doorway on the right side of the hall. Ludwig follows, and swiftly grabs him by the arm.


    ¡°What a shame. I¡¯d say it¡¯s been fun, but that would be a lie.¡± He smirks at Adelar, lifting him up.


    ¡°Go to hell¡­¡± Adelar manages to say, and as a last-ditch effort to get to him, he gives the wolf a mockingly pleased smile. If this must be his end, he would rather go down getting on his nerves, if nothing else.


    ¡°Put him down.¡± Says an unfamiliar voice from the doorway on the opposite side. Judging by his terrified expression, Ludwig seems to know this person.


    Adelar then feels wind blow, forceful, unnaturally harsh, as if sand is being blown by it as well. Ludwig drops him and that¡¯s when he sees that his body is corroding on the outside. He powers down his magic, leaving him vulnerable.


    ¡°You¡¯re supposed to be dead!¡± Ludwig yells, running to the midsection of the hall. Adelar tries to hit him with the whip, but he powers himself back up where it strikes him, the explosion sends rusted metal shards scattering, shattering a lantern in the process. He yells out in pain as a result.


    Adelar now gets a good look at his apparent saviour, a reddish brown looking bat with markings of metal and wind. No doubt, this is Rufina. Her clothes are all charred and black, there is a large hole in the middle of the shirt on her stomach. She herself, however, seems completely unharmed.


    ¡°Once I find you, you are FINISHED, Sheila!¡± He yells into the radio, but there is no response, likely as a result of rust covering the metal parts of it. He chucks it at the wall in anger.


    ¡°Rust is to keep metal in check, metal is to keep the dark flames in check, and dark flames are to keep rust in check.¡± The bat states in a formal voice as she walks out into the hall. ¡°The success of our organisation hangs in the balance of its members.¡±


    Ludwig looks exceedingly irritated by her speech.


    Another figure emerges from the doorway.


    ¡°For balance is The System, and in The System, we trust.¡± Says the person who just arrived, a white bat with red eyes, most likely an albino, wearing crimson clothing with crimson markings to match. ¡°Is that not correct, Ludwig von Leue?¡± Both bats sport smug grins as they approach him.


    ¡°Kill the UNBELIEVER, my chosen!¡± The fox orders with newfound vigour.


    ¡°Ungrateful vermin!¡± Ludwig shouts. ¡°I gave you a home! A job! A purpose! And this is how you repay me, Haemon?¡±


    ¡°Repay you, we will.¡± Says the bat in crimson. He grasps the fabric of his clothing. The colour drains from it, leaving it white. The liquid, presumably blood, is then fashioned into the shape of a massive axe by the bat as his markings glow.


    Rufina blows the corroding wind from her palm at Ludwig as Haemon charges at him with his axe made of blood. Ludwig powers up his magic to absorb the hit, the blow of the weapon chips away at his outer shell of rust as the wind continues to eat away at his body. A piece of his coat is missing where he was struck.


    ¡°I¡¯ve waited so long for this!¡± Haemon swings at him more in animalistic rage, splinters of rust shoot across the hall with each strike, the fragments shattering more lanterns. Adelar gets up to join in, Rufina shoots him a questioning look, but since he seems to be interested in Ludwig¡¯s downfall as well, focuses her attention on the wolf. The eagle cracks the whip at Ludwig, blowing a small chunk of his rusted coat off.


    Haemon lands a proper hit on Ludwig¡¯s abdomen before he can properly power back up, inflicting a wound. Silver blood oozes out, which causes the bat to cackle.


    ¡°How does it feel?¡± Haemon yells. ¡°HOW DOES IT FEEL, LUDWIG?¡± He then raises the axe for another strike, only for Ludwig to grab the handle of, pulling it away from the bat and throwing it aside. He then lands a punch right on Haemon¡¯s kidney and stomach. He collapses immediately after, groaning out in pain.


    ¡°Brother!¡± Cries Rufina.


    Ludwig kicks him aside and gazes at the rust bat, holding his wound, keeping his distance as he absorbs Adelar¡¯s hits nonchalantly.


    The eagle lands a hit on Ludwig¡¯s shoulder, but his body hardens only where he¡¯s struck. He tries two more times, hitting his knee and back, none of the hits seem to hurt him.


    The situation is interrupted by the sound of¡­ Whistling? Adelar turns to a doorway near the main entrance to the hall. Yaroslav comes through the door, holding a person-shaped piece of ice on his shoulder. It has a combat stance with its left arm outstretched. The whistling is coming from him as he looks around the hall.


    Ludwig briefly turns around to see the newly arrived bear and the ice sculpture, he gasps in horror.


    ¡°Put her down!¡± He demands.


    ¡°As you wish.¡± Yaroslav drops the ice statue from a height. It turns out to be a frozen outer shell, which encapsulated the snow lynx Adelar saw outside. She groans and takes a deep breath as the ice is broken. Shivering, she gets up on her knees, putting her arms around herself. Steam then can be seen permeating her coat, warming her up.


    ¡°What are you waiting for, Shaquia? Kill them! You already failed me once with your ¡°method¡±, do not disappoint me again!¡± Ludwig orders, but the lynx stays unmoving on her knees, steam rising from her, taking in her surroundings. She looks up at the bear, then at Adelar, then to the bats and finally raises her arms.


    ¡°I surrender.¡± She states with an uncaring look. Adelar smiles as the white fox erupts in laughter.


    ¡°It strikes me that your allies are not as loyal as they appear.¡± He states.


    Haemon can be heard softly chuckling as he¡¯s trying to get up.


    Ludwig looks furious, but Rufina leaves him no time to think. With a leap, markings glowing silver and grey, she firmly grasps his right hand just as he holds it up in defence.


    Ludwig screams out in pain as he practically throws Rufina away and grasps what remains of his hand, which is quickly turning into a reddish brown dust, despite not being metallicized.


    The brown bat slides to a halt, her claws scraping against the stone floor.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong, Ludwig?¡± Rufina bares her claws and stretches the membranes of her wings. ¡°I was made for this!¡±


    In a panic, Ludwig retreats, then pulls on his own hand with his other, metal hand until it¡¯s torn off, before the rusting can spread to the rest of his body.


    ¡°You¡¯ll pay for this!¡± He shouts!


    To his surprise, Adelar spots a gloved hand holding a black knife emerge from thin air, followed by the rest of the person. He recognises them as the one who he saw Solomon follow, the one wearing beige clothing. They plunge the knife into Ludwig¡¯s shoulder, his metal body too rusted to properly defend him.


    Haemon suddenly gets up and fashions the blood he coughed up into a thin, short blade. He stumbles over to Ludwig and drives the blade into his back, right between the ribs. Although short, the blade pierces him and comes out the other side. The silver wolf has a hard time even powering up his magic from the shock he received from Rufina.


    ¡°Un¡­ Guarded¡­¡± Haemon manages to say through heavy breathing with a smug grin, his strike causing Ludwig to fall to his knees.


    Adelar then walks over to Yaroslav, who shoots him a casual ¡°So how goes it?¡± look, which seems to anger the silver wolf.


    Ludwig pulls out the knife in his shoulder, after which, he powers back up and goes to elbow Haemon, but doesn¡¯t land a hit. His body is so corroded in his metallic form that he can now hardly move while in it. Haemon steps back before Ludwig can try anything else, standing almost still in his rusted form as his body creaks, all the while Rufina blows her wind at him again, corroding him further. She then cracks her knuckles and walks up to him, reaching out a hand with markings glowing.


    Ludwig backs away to evade being turned to dust, that¡¯s when Adelar cracks his whip at him again, which is blocked by his rusted form where it hits. However, it¡¯s useless now, a small part of his side is blown off.


    Seeing how this isn¡¯t a battle he can win anymore, Ludwig goes to try and run away.


    A beam of light shoots across the hall at knee height, hitting Ludwig¡¯s leg. It turns metallic to absorb the hit, to little effect. The beam cuts through his rusted flesh, he falls to the floor, howling as silver blood pours from his wounds.


    Adelar looks over at the fox, he has one arm outstretched as he¡¯s lying on the floor, pointing at Ludwig. The small pool of red blood beneath and around the stone that pinned his hand down tells a gruesome story.


    Haemon cackles, leaning on his sister¡¯s shoulder, both looking elated.


    ¡°We have won.¡± He states proudly as the person in thick clothing goes to retrieve the knife. ¡°It¡¯s over, sister¡­ Today, we have revenge.¡±


    Right there and then, the rush of footsteps can be heard from the doorway on the right side of the hall. From it, emerges four people: two that Adelar doesn¡¯t recognise, and more importantly, Solomon and Lisa.

 Chapter 25 - Exodus

    ¡°What the hell happened here?¡± Solomon pauses to take in the scene. So many familiar faces, some more welcome than others.


    ¡°A little too late there.¡± Luxor speaks up, who Solomon just notices properly. ¡°Now, would someone kindly come here and help out your God?¡±


    Haemon and Rufina rush over to him to lift the rocks. Solomon goes to help as well, thinking that it might further their chances, which earns her a suspicious look from Haemon. Benedict also comes to help, which the bat just finds strange, judging by his expression. The four of them manage to get the stones off the white fox, whose hand and abdomen then shine white briefly. Luxor dusts himself off, then sneers at the gravely injured Ludwig trying to crawl away. Even from her brief time in the cult, Solomon can tell that that doesn¡¯t happen often.


    ¡°You¡­¡± He begins to say, as he trudges over to the silver wolf, who is now whimpering. ¡°You trespass on my territory, my castle, my tabernacle, and not only BLASPHEME my name, but dare to attack me as well?!¡± Ludwig¡¯s lips tremble as he looks up at the white fox. ¡°What say you, in your defence for this iniquity?¡±


    ¡°They have more light!¡± The silver wolf shouts, pointing at Adelar, who in turn seems furious at what he said.


    Solomon feels utterly disgusted by the idea of Ludwig handing over Durazo just to save himself. Genesis, no, every other Mystic One seems to share her sentiment in one way or another, to her surprise, even Haemon and Rufina.


    ¡°Your petty lies will not save you.¡± Luxor replies, incredulous. However gullible he might be, he still won¡¯t trust a single word of Ludwig after what he tried to do.


    ¡°Shaquia!¡± He yells out, but the lynx says nothing. In fact, Solomon can see that her right hand is ever so slightly shaking, gradually growing much more violent as she grits her teeth. She then clenches her fist, causing the quivering to stop as steam rises from her entire upper body.


    ¡°Sheila! Benedict! Help me!¡± Their once leader demands, but no one steps up. ¡°Why isn¡¯t my System helping me?!¡±


    ¡°Your ¡°system¡± lacks a foundation.¡± Says the fox, staring at him with his glowing, white eyes. Whatever thought might be behind them, it is without a doubt that of deep, indignant disdain. ¡°Your sentence is death.¡± He points two fingers at him, slightly open. ¡°My word is absolute. My word is inalterable. My word is sacrosanct, as am I.¡± A beam of light shoots out from each of them, one at each side of Ludwig¡¯s neck, causing him to yelp.


    ¡°Isn¡¯t that enough?! Isn¡¯t that what you want above all?¡± Ludwig yells in one last desperate attempt to change the fox¡¯s mind.


    ¡°Perish.¡± Luxor says and with one simple motion, closes his fingers. Ludwig tries to protect himself with his power, but it doesn¡¯t help him whatsoever. The light cuts through his neck like a hot knife would through butter. It takes no more than a few seconds for his whole body to turn into a pile of reddish brown dust after the divine fox finishes him off.


    ¡°Judgement is served.¡±


    Solomon can¡¯t help but feel delighted by seeing the silver wolf¡¯s demise, a feeling she shares with Genesis. Haemon and Rufina, they may not speak their mind, but given what she learned about their past relation to Ludwig¡­ She figures that their looks of utter, vengeant glee is justified.


    As this is happening, the remaining cultists gather as Luxor turns to look at them with bittersweet pleasure.


    ¡°Sweep through our home.¡± He orders in a calm voice. ¡°Count our losses. Bring any intruders to the dungeon. It is time we use it.¡±


    The cultists go through the doorways, completely ignoring anyone else in the hall.


    ¡°As for you¡­¡± He turns to look at Adelar and Yaroslav. ¡°For what reason have you trespassed upon here?¡± He asks with a slight frown.


    ¡°In all honesty, we didn¡¯t know you lived here.¡± Says the bear.


    ¡°We¡¯re here for one reason.¡± Adelar steps forward, pointing at Solomon. ¡°Her.¡±


    Everyone in the hall turns to look at the cat, which she really doesn¡¯t like.


    ¡°She¡¯s one of yours?¡± Haemon questions.


    Adelar nods in confirmation.


    ¡°So she¡¯s one of you, dressed as one of us, helping two of them?¡± The albino says in a sarcastic tone.


    ¡°Listen, mates.¡± Lisa says in a nonchalantly calm manner, putting a hand on Solomon¡¯s shoulder, which comforts her greatly. ¡°We just want her back, then we¡¯ll leave ya to whatever you were doing.¡± She states with a smile.


    Luxor tilts his head to the side.


    ¡°I am afraid she belongs to us now.¡± He declares.


    Solomon hears a low growl from Lisa. She may have only known her for a few months, but she has never heard her make such a sound. She¡¯s about to say something when the white fox continues talking.


    ¡°However, I recognise that you have helped me. Who might belong to this group of yours?¡± Adelar and Yaroslav go to stand next to Lisa. The remaining members of The System stay where they are. ¡°For the rest of you, judgement awaits.¡±


    ¡°Ludwig is dead.¡± Solomon speaks up, stepping forward. It may be an extremely foolish decision, Genesis certainly figures it to be that, but she wants to save them as well. ¡°Blame the leadership. Not them.¡±


    Benedict nods vigorously.


    ¡°What she said!¡± He says, partially hiding behind Sheila.


    The bat siblings look downright insulted.


    ¡°Why are they so important to you all of a sudden?¡± Adelar questions with a frown.


    ¡°Just¡­ trust me on this one.¡± She turns to plead with the eagle.


    ¡°They killed your worshippers!¡± Haemon chimes in, apparently catching Luxor¡¯s attention more. ¡°People, scalded, shot, shocked, charred and frozen alike!¡±


    Benedict crosses his arms to hide his markings.


    Luxor pauses, listening intently. Solomon is certain that he¡¯s angry, terribly so, but he doesn¡¯t show it. For what reason, she¡¯s not sure.


    ¡°What say you in your defence?¡± The fox finally asks.


    Solomon sighs, already thinking of a way to fix this. She doesn''t like it, she knows that Genesis won¡¯t like it either, but it may be the only chance to help them all. She wants everyone to be free so much¡­ And she will see to it.


    ¡°Take your anger out on me!¡± She says, causing Genesis to panic. ¡°I¡¯m the reason for all this!  If I wasn¡¯t so good at destruction, none of this would have happened! Go on, cast your judgement upon me and let them go!¡± She declares.


    The hall falls silent. Solomon looks around and sees that everyone looks to be quite surprised by her decision, Haemon especially. ¡°Please let this work¡­¡±


    ¡°Rox¡­¡± Says Lisa, stepping forward, reaching out with a hand.


    ¡°You don¡¯t have to do this!¡± Shaquia exclaims, attempting to get closer to her, an attempt which is quickly shot down by a mere glance of Luxor.


    Solomon holds her arms to the side.


    ¡°I am capable of causing great destruction!¡± She states, glancing at Benedict. ¡°Please pick up on it.¡± Genesis seems to understand her plan now. He doesn¡¯t seem eager to unleash his wrath once more per se, but if the circumstances demand it, he will surely listen to his host. ¡°So what are you waiting for?¡±


    Luxor looks at her indifferently.


    ¡°Very well.¡± He says, putting his hands together. ¡°If your wish is to absolve these sinners through your sacrifice, then I shall grant it. Such a shame, for I have thought of a use for you in our society.¡±


    Solomon feels her heart beat faster. ¡°Come on¡­ Work with me here!¡± She sees the raccoon hold his hands together and light up his markings. Along with that, the soft sound of a sword being unsheathed.


    ¡°Oh no you don¡¯t.¡± Says a new voice coming from the direction of the entrance. Turning her head, Solomon sees a welcome sight, Thalia, standing in the doorway. The lanterns that used to light the way there have been smashed, covering it in a dim darkness.


    ¡°Who might you be?¡± Luxor asks with a curious look.


    Solomon glances at Lisa, who sheathes her sword with a smirk.


    ¡°You are light, correct?¡± Thalia asks, confident in whatever her plans might be.


    ¡°The embodiment of light, the God of light, the one who-¡± The fox begins to say, only for Thalia to cut him off.


    ¡°Then I¡¯m your worst nightmare.¡± Colour drains from her, fur and clothes alike turning black, taking the fox by surprise. ¡°Now let me ask you one question, o, embodiment of light.¡±


    Darkness spreads from around her, enveloping everything in her vicinity. When it reaches one of the few remaining magical lanterns, it extinguishes, rather than the light dispersing the darkness. Luxor watches on unmoving, a look of absolute terror on his face.


    ¡°Impossible!¡± Says Haemon, grabbing the fox by the arm, snapping him out of his trance.


    ¡°What is darkness but the absence of light?¡± Thalia asks as her darkness spreads further.


    ¡°Solomon!¡± Shaquia whispers, stepping towards her. ¡°Where did she come from? That¡¯s True Darkness!¡±


    Luxor fires a beam of light into the spreading darkness, but can¡¯t pierce its veil.


    ¡°Light of the Bright Ones can never exist within its presence!¡± The lynx explains to her. Solomon shoots her an ¡°I know¡± look with a smirk.


    Luxor runs to the back of the hall and to the marble throne, Thalia¡¯s darkness having spread to block the entrances. It covers most of the hall and the people inside it, members of the cult flee from what to them, is the antithesis of their god.


    Solomon is plunged into the same, uncomfortably shadowy darkness, barely able to make out any of the other people. Haemon, Rufina, and Luxor scramble to the one spot that hasn¡¯t been obscured yet, lighting an emergency torch, keeping the approaching darkness at bay. That sight seems to please Genesis greatly.


    Stolen from its rightful place, this narrative is not meant to be on Amazon; report any sightings.


    ¡°What¡¯s going on?¡± Sheila asks, keeping close to Benedict, holding his hand tight.


    ¡°I hate to say it¡­¡± The raccoon replies. ¡°But I see about as much as you do right now.¡±


    ¡°Keep calm, everyone!¡± Lisa exclaims. ¡°She¡¯s on our side!¡±


    Solomon looks at Thalia, who gestures to the entrance. She herself then does the same to the others, who then all quietly begin to go there. Luxor is speechless as he¡¯s huddled in the lit corner with the two bats.


    ¡°I¡¯ll need you to tell me exactly how you found out about this.¡± Adelar says to Lisa as they approach the doorway.


    Solomon squints and she sees the vague figure of what must be Lumi, taking off her welding goggles.


    ¡°This¡­ This is it.¡± She sees her take off her gloves, the darkness having extinguished every lantern in the hall. ¡°Please! Let me make contact!¡± She pleads, walking towards Thalia. The silhouette of the panther stops, Solomon is certain she turns her head to look at Lumi.


    ¡°You¡¯re what I¡¯ve been waiting for!¡± Says the bat, throwing off her coat and freeing her face from the fabric. ¡°I beg of you, let me make contact!¡± She reaches out with an arm.


    ¡°You know I¡¯m like, a person, right?¡± Thalia asks in a confused tone, causing Lumi to pause. ¡°I guess you can?¡± She shrugs, then reaches out and allows Lumi to take her hand.


    ¡°This¡­ This power!¡± She exclaims through delighted chuckles. ¡°My destiny is fulfilled! Please, take me with you!¡±


    Solomon feels mildly concerned about Lumi now unable to tell what exactly happened in the darkness.


    ¡°What do you think you¡¯re doing?!¡± Says the voice of Haemon.


    Thalia turns towards the remaining three in the corner. Despite everything, not even Luxor¡¯s light can compare to the power of True Darkness.


    ¡°Now to finish this¡­¡± Thalia takes a stance, ready to pounce.


    Solomon is almost at the entrance door when she hears a sound she hasn¡¯t heard for days, having all but forgotten, a sound which sends chills down her spines. The sound of quiet footsteps and dripping cause her to pause as she looks to the doorway, the darkness not having gone through it. A figure stands there at the edge of the darkness, Solomon rubs her eyes in disbelief before realising who it truly is.


    He lets out a screech, which the others take notice of and stop. He then points at Thalia, and fires a bolt of electricity.


    The panther collapses onto the floor. The darkness retreats, revealing a now less terrified Luxor and Rufina along with a positively furious Haemon. Some cultists take tentative steps into the hall.


    Solomon can¡¯t decide who is more devastated, Lumi, Lisa, or Genesis.


    ¡°No!¡± The bat and the wolf speak at the same time.


    ¡°Don¡¯t believe¡­ A single word they say¡­¡± Says the one who just arrived, who turns out to be none other than Fulmine, wet and partially covered in mud and what looks like kelp. He then looks at Solomon with betrayal. ¡°Especially her!¡±


    Her heart sinks. ¡°Now we¡¯re in trouble¡­¡± Her mind races, trying her best to come up with something, anything that can help them in this situation.


    Lumi crouches down to Thalia and checks her pulse. She breathes a sigh of relief, thoroughly confusing Lisa. And the marking on her face¡­ It seems to be glowing an intense black.


    ¡°What is the meaning of this!¡± Luxor stands up, clutching at his chest, the two bats at his side.


    ¡°How could you do that?¡± Says Fulmine, pointing at Solomon. He could just shoot lightning at her as well, but she feels a little solace in the fact that he doesn¡¯t. ¡°How could you break my heart like that?¡± He adds, now with a pleading expression.


    Adelar and Shaquia, concerned for the cat¡¯s safety, rush over and blast him with steam and the end of a fiery whip, pushing him to the ground. He yells out, covering his face.


    Solomon feels a sense of immense guilt, one that is mixed with Genesis¡¯ awkward disappointment. Whether it¡¯s meant to be towards her or something else, she isn¡¯t sure. She wonders if she could have handled that entire situation better.


    Shaquia doesn¡¯t seem to take notice of what he said. ¡°This is it. We¡¯re dead. Luxor will cut us all to pieces¡­¡± The exit¡­ So close, yet so far, it isn¡¯t even ten metres away. No matter, no one can outrun the speed of light.


    ¡°Lumi¡­¡± Says Luxor. ¡°My warden, what was it that you said?¡±


    ¡°You see, Radiant One¡­¡± She begins to explain with a hint of urgency in her voice as she stands up. She then takes one of her knives and throws it straight into the fox¡¯s face, dark ice quickly spreading across it soon after. He yelps out in pain and closes his eyes.


    ¡°Run!¡± Lumi exclaims, trying to pick up Thalia. Yaroslav goes to help her, easily putting the panther over his shoulder.


    Haemon gathers his remaining strength and charges at Lumi with a blade made of blood. Lisa steps in to block his strike with her sword, resulting in a loud clang echoing in the hall. She then powers up, a brief shock causing the bat to recoil and step back.


    Members of both Bird¡¯s Eye and The System waste no time and make a run for the exit, led by Solomon.


    She feels her foot bang into a small rock she failed to notice in the darkness, causing her to trip and fall over as some of the others overtake her. Only then, she sees a small, crimson blade fly over her head and pierce Shaquia¡¯s calf, the lynx biting her tongue, slowing down to a crawl. She quickly gets up and helps her run, at least as much a person in that condition can. Adelar takes her place shortly after, trying his best to get her out.


    With one quick glance back, Solomon sees that Luxor¡¯s eyes are obscured. He¡¯s shining his light onto the dark ice, steadily melting it. Lisa runs by her side, followed by the rest not far behind.


    ¡°AFTER THEM!¡± Luxor exclaims, the sound of footsteps rushing footsteps accompanying his voice. When everyone is through the entrance door, Lumi covers it in dark ice, which grows much faster than normal, covering the doorway in seconds.


    They all run into the woods, not a single thought of looking back. On Solomon¡¯s mind, but one thing: get away. Get away, and never have to come back. Not her, not anyone she¡¯s with. The idea that she will finally be free of these two parties leaves her with a mild, but ever-present sense of peace. Or at least she certainly hopes that whoever will take Ludwig¡¯s place will be more agreeable and won¡¯t try and hunt her down. Not her, nor her friends.


    ¡°That¡¯s the Acid One!¡± One agent says as they run through.


    ¡°Ludwig¡¯s dead! Forget it! Just run!¡± Shaquia responds, her wound bleeding profusely.


    ¡°What¡¯s going on?¡± Says the voice of Durazo somewhere nearby.


    Solomon questions what he was doing there with the agents.


    ¡°I¡¯ll explain later, let¡¯s get out of here!¡± The cat shouts. She can hardly wait to see the ex-priest again, along with a proper retelling of what happened to her.


    As they run through the dense woods, she can hear Sheila grunt as she runs into trees and low-hanging branches on more than one occasion.


    ¡°You are the worst guide I have EVER seen!¡± She berates Benedict.


    ¡°We¡¯re either fast or careful, your choice, really!¡± The raccoon retorts, Sheila seems to give in. Solomon is certain she hears a soft ¡°ow¡¯¡± soon after. She remembers just how long it took to get to the castle first, this won¡¯t be a pleasant escape, but it¡¯s an escape nonetheless.


    The group runs through the woods, the sound of their hurried footsteps and panting disrupting the silence of the forest. The mere presence of her friends encourages Solomon to keep going, she won¡¯t let anyone take her again, she won¡¯t let anyone take any of these people. Although she doesn¡¯t hear anyone follow them, she feels deeply concerned about being chased.


    Shaquia is now being carried by two agents with Lumi by their side.


    ¡°Stop!¡± Says the bat. ¡°We¡¯ve lost them!¡± It takes a few moments for everyone to halt. They may be deep enough in the woods now, but Solomon finds herself glancing over her shoulder, just in case.


    ¡°Everyone keep watch!¡± Says Lumi. ¡°We¡¯ll know if they catch up. We need to treat the injured!¡± She gestures to the agents to put down Shaquia. She then walks over to her along with Durazo.


    ¡°I can help, I have healing light!¡± He declares.


    Lumi shakes her head, inspecting the lynx¡¯s wound, the blade still sticking out of it.


    ¡°In the middle of a forest at night in the presence of True Darkness? She¡¯ll bleed out before your light even starts to take effect.¡± She states and takes out her other knife. ¡°Fire! I need fire!¡± She announces. ¡°Anyone with fire, come here right now!¡± Solomon sees that her dark markings are still glowing black, but not her frost ones. Genesis seems intrigued.


    ¡°We have two here!¡± Benedict looks at Sheila.


    ¡°I still can¡¯t see.¡± The lioness responds, unamused. ¡°You go ahead.¡±


    The raccoon releases her hand and quickly goes over to Shaquia.


    ¡°We need to cauterise it.¡± Lumi states.


    ¡°I¡¯m part fire.¡± The lynx shakes her head. ¡°That won¡¯t work.¡± She rolls up her sleeve to reveal markings of fire and wind.


    ¡°That¡¯s¡­¡± The bat replies, pausing to find the right word. ¡°Bad. But I¡¯ll try.¡± Lumi then cuts Shaquia¡¯s trousers open to reveal the wound more. ¡°Listen, this may not work at all, but it¡¯s your best chance.¡± She grasps the end of the blade stuck in her and yanks it out. Shaquia bites a piece of fabric as Lumi works. The bat then quickly places her right hand over the wound and powers up.


    ¡°I won¡¯t lie, this¡¯ll hurt.¡± She says, Shaquia flinches as dark ice gathers to temporarily seal the wound. It looks rough and incredibly uncomfortable, but it may just be enough. ¡°I¡¯m no medic, but this should work until the Sun comes up.¡±


    ¡°Are you certain?¡± Shaquia inquires, unsure how much she can trust the bat.


    ¡°Anyone else in need of help?¡± Lumi turns to look at the rest of the group, disregarding Shaquia¡¯s statement.


    ¡°The priest has already helped us, sire.¡± Says the voice of Andreas. Solomon didn¡¯t even notice that he joined up with them.


    ¡°I told you I¡¯m not a priest anymore!¡± Durazo grumbles as Solomon steps towards him.


    ¡°Father¡­¡± She begins to say, the older canine smiling at her warmly. ¡°It¡¯s good to see you again! You won¡¯t believe what I went through.¡±


    ¡°She needs help! Now!¡± Yaroslav shouts, breaking the momentary peace. ¡°Thalia, she has no pulse!¡±


    Lisa and Lumi immediately look over.


    ¡°NO!¡± The bat shouts. ¡°We can¡¯t let her die!¡± Sounding like her life depends on it, she rushes over to the panther, leaving the knife behind.


    ¡°Oi, what are you doing?¡± Solomon hears the voice of Lisa and quickly makes her way over to where she, Lumi and Thalia are. The panther¡¯s extremities are rapidly turning black, Lumi has her right hand around a non-darkened part of her neck, holding it firmly.


    ¡°Stay back! I can help her!¡± Says the bat, clearly panicked and impatient.


    ¡°What¡¯s happening to-¡± Lisa begins to say in a worried tone.


    ¡°STAY BACK!¡± Lumi shouts and slams the ground with her right hand. A dome of jagged, dark ice quickly forms around her and Thalia, catching them all by surprise.


    ¡°Open up, ya twat!¡± Lisa shouts, thoroughly insulted by being denied so easily. Scowling, she picks up a rock and hits the dome with it. It hardly even cracks the ice. Adelar runs up to it and tries to melt it with the heat from a fire in his hand.


    ¡°You won¡¯t get in that way.¡± Says Shaquia, walking over, supporting herself on two agents. ¡°You can¡¯t melt dark ice with fire. You have to use light.¡±


    Lisa then gestures over to Durazo with a pleading expression. The ex-priest comes over and shines his light on the side of the dome, making sure the light doesn¡¯t touch Thalia or Lumi. It takes an uncomfortably long while to melt an opening, Lisa paces around, visibly worried for the panther.


    Durazo gasps from the sight within the dome and takes a step back.


    Solomon And Lisa peer inside, the bat is performing CPR on Thalia. Seeing that it no longer hides her, Lumi removes the rest of the dome. But it isn¡¯t just that¡­ Dark ice covers the panther¡¯s limbs and neck, darkness isn¡¯t spreading past it.


    ¡°This will keep it at bay¡­ But she¡¯s gone.¡± Lumi admits with a sorrowful look.


    ¡°No!¡± Lisa yells with tears in her eyes. ¡°Get away!¡± She shoos away Lumi.


    Lisa crouches down and puts her ear against Thalia¡¯s chest, followed by soft sobbing. She then powers up her magic, arcs of electricity begin jumping across her body, causing those nearby to take a step back. She readies her hands and brings them down on Thalia¡¯s chest, causing her body to jump. She checks again, the panther is  certainly still dead.


    ¡°No! No! NO!¡± Lisa screams, tears falling from her eyes as she shocks Thalia again. ¡°You can¡¯t die on me! You can¡¯t!¡± Thalia is shocked again and again, but there is no result. Lisa weeps as she hits the ground with her fist, the area around her is illuminated by her electricity. No one dares to speak or move.


    ¡°You can¡¯t take her away from us!¡± She screams into the sky, refusing to give up, and allows more energy to collect within her hands, she then brings her hands down on the panther one more time in a final attempt at bringing her back.


    Thalia¡¯s body jumps, and then takes a deep breath as her eyes shoot open. For a brief moment, she looks at the wolf with a subtle, slight smile before falling unconscious again. Lisa appears bittersweet as she holds her former partner in her hands, checking her pulse. Not a word is said. The only sound heard is the gentle weeping of Lisa. This time, of joy.


    ¡°You¡­¡± Shaquia breaks the silence, pointing at Lumi. ¡°I will need to talk to you.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll have some questions myself.¡± Lisa states, wiping tears from her eyes.


    ¡°Lisa¡­¡± Solomon says as she steps next to the wolf and kneels down next to her.


    ¡°Yes, Rox?¡± The wolf responds with a sniffle.


    Solomon puts an arm around Lisa, pulling her into a half-hug. Even just that makes her feel pleasantly warm on the inside.


    ¡°I¡¯m just glad we¡¯re all mostly okay¡­¡± She herself really wants to know what exactly Lumi did. ¡°Let¡¯s go home.¡±


    ¡°Well first, we¡¯re getting you proper clothes.¡± Lisa teases, seemingly in a better mood. ¡°No plane will let you on looking like that.¡±


    Solomon pulls her robes closed in response.


    ¡°No commercial plane, no.¡± Shaquia grins.


    Solomon nods, knowing exactly what she has planned for them.

 Chapter 26 - Resolve

    ¡°Darkness isn¡¯t typically used for medical reasons.¡± Lumi explains with Solomon and Shaquia in a private chamber on a plane belonging to The System. The lynx is inspecting a knife the bat made. ¡°But it worked! It may hurt until it¡¯s properly taken care of, but that¡¯s to be expected.¡±


    ¡°Interesting¡­¡± Shaquia says with a curious look.


    ¡°Thank you again for saving Thalia!¡± Solomon chimes in, glad to have trusted Lumi .¡°And the rest of us, for that matter.¡±


    Genesis can hardly seem to understand the fact that they¡¯re flying, or rather how they¡¯re doing that.


    ¡°It was nothing, really.¡± Lumi shrugs it off. ¡°I couldn¡¯t WAIT to finally meet True Darkness!¡±


    There is a knock at the door, followed by Lisa opening it. ¡°Speaking of.¡±


    ¡°Hey, Thali¡¯s come to. And since you wanted to talk to her¡­¡±


    Lumi stands up immediately and heads out the door.


    ¡°I¡¯ll tell you more later!¡± She says as she pushes past Lisa. At least the wolf seems to have understood just how much Lumi helped not just Thalia, but Solomon as well after she explained.


    ¡°Now if you could give us a minute¡­¡± Says the lynx.


    Lisa winks at Solomon and closes the door.


    ¡°So¡­¡± The cat begins to say. ¡°What now? With Ludwig dead, what will happen to the org?¡±


    ¡°First thing¡¯s first, that contract you signed, consider it null and void.¡± Shaquia states in a formal tone. ¡°I¡¯m next in the chain of command, so I¡¯ll take over. Needless to say, there will be some major changes.¡± She explains, going through some paperwork. ¡°Although¡­ The old man was right in one thing.¡±


    Solomon doesn¡¯t quite like that she said that.


    ¡°I heard just how¡­ Different your power is. This is the biggest discovery, ever. I know I have no right to ask, but if you could come down to HQ and give us some info sometimes¡­¡± She says, not expecting much from the cat by the looks of it.


    ¡°Hold on.¡± Solomon takes out her notebook. Genesis feels indifferent about it, so she gives it to Shaquia. The lynx flips through the notebook with her markings glowing, Solomon can see steam subtly rise up from her, seemingly in awe at what she¡¯s reading.


    ¡°This¡­ This is amazing!¡± She says with a look of wonder. Nothing like Ludwig¡¯s greedy selfish, toothy grin, but a smile of genuine delight as a result of the discovery. ¡°Who wrote this?¡± She looks up from the notebook excitedly.


    ¡°Technically, I did, but¡­ Not really.¡± Says Solomon, causing Shaquia to raise an eyebrow. ¡°Well, I can kind of let him control my hands and write like that.¡± The lynx seems to find that strange, but interesting. ¡°He also sees through my eyes. Yeah, that totally won¡¯t get weird, not at all.¡±


    ¡°Him?¡± She inquires, looking a little concerned for her.


    ¡°Yeah. The one who made this magic. I call him Genesis.¡± She states as if it¡¯s the most normal thing to say.


    ¡°Alright¡­¡± Shaquia puts away the notebook. ¡°That¡¯s a start. But if you could do that¡­ It could help us understand magic so much more.¡± She states, keeping her composure.


    ¡°Well, that¡¯s up for him to decide.¡± She looks down at her hands. ¡°What do you say?¡± Genesis gives a thumbs up with her right hand. ¡°There you go!¡± Delighted, she looks back up at Shaquia, who seems deeply worried for her.


    ¡°I can get past the insane cult leader, but oh, I could NEVER get used to that.¡± She says, then shakes her head. ¡°Sorry, that was unprofessional of me to say¡­¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m already getting used to it.¡± Solomon shrugs. ¡°Mostly¡­ Not really. Although I have no idea how it¡¯ll affect my love life.¡± She says with an awkward look.


    ¡°Yeah, that¡¯s rough¡­¡± Shaquia shoots her a look of pity. ¡°That really didn¡¯t help.¡±


    ¡°That would conclude our first meeting, then.¡± Says the lynx, putting her hands together. ¡°You may collect your belongings at HQ when we get there. Like your phone.¡±


    Solomon takes her phone out of her pocket.


    ¡°No need for that.¡± She states with a giggle. ¡°I would like that dress back though. I like that dress.¡±


    ¡°Of course.¡± The lynx nods understandingly. ¡°Anything else?¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t be like Ludwig. That¡¯s all I ask.¡± Solomon says with a smile.


    Shaquia chuckles softly.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry. That won¡¯t happen. You and your friends are safe, we¡¯ll try to make sure of that.¡± She clears her throat. ¡°Now, I¡¯ll need to write a report and well, I better get started now if I don¡¯t want to stay up until the next dawn.¡±


    ¡°Good luck, Shaqie.¡± Solomon says with a nod, the lynx smiles back at her, seemingly fine with the cat calling her that nickname. ¡°I¡¯ll check on the others.¡± She stands up and steps into the main area on the plane where everyone else is.


    She sees around ten agents gathered at the same spot around Andreas and Benedict, talking about the future of the organisation as well as more lighthearted topics, like their families. Some look more than ready to hand in their resignation letters.


    Adelar and Yaroslav converse as Durazo shines his light on Sheila¡¯s face in an attempt to fix her eye. Solomon wonders how long that will take.


    ¡°So how¡¯d you even get in there?¡± Adelar asks the bear.


    ¡°I was looking for a secret entrance. There was none. So I made one!¡± He replies with a chuckle.


    ¡°And then you fought Shaquia?¡± The eagle inquires, ready for an epic story.


    ¡°Not really.¡± Yaroslav admits. ¡°We made a deal to make it look like she lost. Oh, how she hated that wolf!¡±


    Farther down, Lisa is sitting next to Thalia with Lumi on the opposite side. Thalia tries to hide that she¡¯s thoroughly creeped out by her, but isn¡¯t doing too good a job at it. Solomon walks there and sits down next to Lumi.


    ¡°So how¡¯d it go?¡± Lisa asks, interrupting Lumi¡¯s rambling about how her darkness was passed down to her by her mother, who in turn got it from her mother. ¡°I feel like someone else might be more interested in that.¡±


    ¡°I was told we¡¯re alright. They¡¯d like me to assist them in research now and then, but I can do that.¡± She assures. ¡°But I¡¯m taking a week off from work after this is over for sure.¡±


    ¡°Granted!¡± Adelar raises his voice, which causes Lisa and Solomon to chuckle.


    ¡°That guy¡¯s your boss?¡± Benedict inquires, turning around in his seat. ¡°That¡¯s not fair!¡±


    ¡°I believe this is supposed to be a private conversation.¡± Thalia speaks up, the people return to their business.


    ¡°I¡¯m just so glad that you¡¯re okay.¡± The panther goes on in a soft, sombre tone. ¡°I couldn¡¯t bear to see another friend just¡­ Disappear like that.¡± Lisa puts a hand on her shoulder. ¡°Poor Alan¡­¡±


    ¡°Who¡¯s Alan?¡± Lumi asks abruptly, making Solomon feel quite upset with her.


    ¡°Oh come on, Lumi. It¡¯s-¡± She begins to say.


    ¡°It¡¯s something you should know, after all this.¡± Thalia cuts her off, taking Lisa and Solomon by surprise. Lumi just seems rather excited. ¡°Alan was a friend from my old life. He was this, like¡­ Government person, secret service or whatever.¡± She sighs. ¡°He was involved in all kinds of operations. He hardly talked about them, of course, but he was happy, he was sure that he was making a difference in the world.¡±


    Solomon sees a tear roll down the panther¡¯s cheek, the conversations around them making sure that only they hear what she has to say.


    ¡°Thali¡­¡± Says Lisa, clearly noticing her saddened mood as well. ¡°You don¡¯t have to relive that.¡±


    ¡°No, I¡¯m fine.¡± Thalia wipes her eyes clear of tears and collects herself. ¡°At least it¡¯ll keep his memory alive¡­¡± She takes a deep breath, ears drooping. ¡°Anyway, that all started to change throughout one particular week. His usual, happy demeanour, replaced by just¡­ Despair. Call me dramatic, but that¡¯s the best word I can use to describe it. I just had to ask him, can you really blame me?¡± She pauses to collect her thoughts.


    ¡°A government conspiracy? And Lisa isn¡¯t eager to be on the case?¡±


    ¡°He was working on this, like, ultra-secret thing called Project Ghost?¡± Thalia goes on, sounding as if she herself questions her recollection. ¡°He told me that they wanted to find definite proof of an afterlife. He told me that they were close, despite ¡°everything¡±. He told me he¡¯d be fine¡­¡± She leans back in her seat with a deep sigh. ¡°The next day, he¡­ He disappeared without a trace. No one, and I mean NO ONE has come forward or even looked into him! I-I went to the police to report him as a missing person¡­ And I was told that there was no such person working in that field.¡±


    Unauthorized reproduction: this story has been taken without approval. Report sightings.


    That small corner of four people falls silent for a long moment.


    ¡°That¡¯s¡­ Terrible.¡± Says Solomon, extremely curious about the incident in secret. ¡°Maybe we could look into it?¡±


    ¡°Listen, Rox.¡± Lisa replies, looking as if she¡¯s heard that story more than once. ¡°As much as I want to help Thali get her friend back, that¡¯s way, waaaay beyond what we can do. We don¡¯t fuck with the government.¡±


    ¡°I hate to say it, but she¡¯s right.¡± Says Thalia. ¡°Th-they whacked him, I just know they did¡­ But they also erased all of his records, as if he never even existed? Just¡­ What the hell did he see to warrant that?¡±


    Genesis feels like he doesn¡¯t understand everything about what the panther said, but in a way, he relates.


    ¡°We can, uhm¡­¡± Lumi begins to say, putting her hands together. ¡°Talk about it?¡± She shrugs with an awkward smile.


    ¡°No¡­¡± Thalia responds, ears perked. ¡°I¡¯d rather not think about it anymore¡­ But I thought it was fair that you should know, Solomon. And with no one here working for those bastards, it¡¯s as good of a time as it gets.¡± She wipes her forehead and clears her throat. ¡°Anyway Lumi, what was it that you were on about?¡±


    Solomon is admittedly left speechless, figurative speaking, as she has many, many questions about it. Questions she decides not to burden Thalia with, at least not for the time being. Something that¡¯ll no doubt be on her mind.


    ¡°The purest form of darkness!¡± Lumi says in a much more cheerful voice. ¡°You have to teach me! I need to learn the ways of using dark powers!¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not exactly sure about this whole thing, I¡¯ll be sure to tell that to those guys as well.¡± Thalia glances over at members of The System. ¡°But you did save my life¡­ If it really is that important to you, fine. But know that I¡¯m just some woman who works in a restaurant.¡± She winks.


    ¡°I am honoured!¡± Lumi says proudly, bowing to the panther.


    Solomon feels elated to be away from the cult, but with a former member, or rather insider by her side, there¡¯s one more thing she wants to know.


    ¡°You know Lumi¡­¡± The cat begins to say, drawing the bat¡¯s attention to her. ¡°I have to say, those guys work fast. Took those three very little time to track me down.¡±


    ¡°What are you talking about?¡± The bat asks, confused.


    Lisa seems to remember what she means, based on her rather vindictive expression.


    ¡°That trio of a ferret, lizard, and jackal?¡± Says Solomon, getting a little worried. ¡°The System didn¡¯t send them after me, so it must have been the Lightborn.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s just impossible.¡± Lumi¡¯s expression turns to pity. ¡°I¡¯ve never seen a single ferret there. Nor do I know of any outside connections like that.¡± Solomon feels terribly concerned all of a sudden. ¡°I don¡¯t know who sent them, but it wasn¡¯t us.¡±


    ¡°Oh¡­ That¡¯s great.¡± The cat states. ¡°I¡¯m not sleeping well tonight.¡±


    Just a  few minutes after that, Sheila gasps. The others look over at her.


    ¡°I¡­ I think my vision is returning!¡± She exclaims. A couple minutes later, her right eye, the one that was shot by electricity, seems to be healed by Durazo. She stands up and hugs the canine.


    ¡°Thank you, father¡­¡± She says in a grateful voice.


    ¡°I¡¯m only doing my job of helping those in need.¡± He states in a formal tone.


    Sheila then sits back down.


    ¡°What about the other one?¡± He asks, glancing at her eyepatch.


    ¡°The medical staff will take care of that at HQ. Don¡¯t waste your energy on me anymore.¡± She smiles, something Solomon didn¡¯t see her do often. Durazo nods in response and sits down next to her, but he stands back up not long after, looking directly at the cat.


    ¡°Solomon!¡± He says, she turns to look at him. ¡°Do you happen to know what happened¡­ To Antonio?¡±


    Solomon has completely forgotten about that. She¡¯s personally glad he¡¯s gone, but she isn¡¯t sure what Durazo would think.


    ¡°He didn¡¯t make it.¡± She states in a low voice.


    ¡°Oh¡­¡± Says the canine. ¡°What happened?¡±


    Solomon really thinks about how to put it. It wasn¡¯t exactly pretty, but her life depended on it.


    ¡°Let¡¯s just say that he¡¯s half the man he used to be.¡± She says with a shrug.


    ¡°Very well.¡± Durazo retains a neutral expression. ¡°May the Lord have mercy on his soul.¡± He sits back down in his seat.


    Solomon finds herself wondering if he would have done the same in her situation.


    ¡°Might I ask who that is?¡± Sheila inquires.


    ¡°Someone that the world is a better place without.¡± The canine leans back in his seat, looking quite comfortable.


    After one more hour into the trip, the plane finally lands back at The System HQ in Britain. Everyone disembarks, Solomon goes to collect her dress, escorted by the members of the organisation. Sheila scowls at Lisa before they enter, the wolf gestures a peace sign to her as she puffs on her pipe outside. Lumi is given proper streetwear, along with a hoodie, so that she doesn¡¯t stick out too much in public. Once everything is settled, Solomon bids farewell to the organisation, at least for the time being. The group gathers outside the facility, Lumi with them.


    ¡°So¡­ Have you always been part of that cult?¡± Adelar inquires.


    ¡°I haven¡¯t forgotten how the outside world works.¡± She replies with a sly smile.


    ¡°I think we should focus on something else.¡± Lisa chimes in. ¡°How are we gettin¡¯ back?¡±


    The trip to Lanolow takes just about all day, complete with breaks. They even stop to discreetly celebrate getting Solomon back in a restaurant.


    ¡°Well this menu totally sucks.¡± Lisa remarks.


    ¡°It has fish!¡± Solomon exclaims surrounded by her friends, glad to finally be back with them. ¡°That¡¯s all I really need.¡±


    ¡°Solomon, I¡¯m so sorry¡­¡± Says Adelar, catching her attention. ¡°I really, really shouldn¡¯t have just left you alone back then. I really-¡±


    ¡°Hey, I turned out fine!¡± She retorts. ¡°Don¡¯t blame yourself, Adelar. After all, I found out so much about¡­¡± She looks down at her gloved hands with a warm feeling from Genesis. ¡°Everything.¡±


    No one says anything for a long moment.


    ¡°Way to kill the mood, mate.¡± Lisa remarks, causing the cat to softly chuckle.


    ¡°Thank God you¡¯re okay.¡± Says Durazo.


    Solomon forgot how much she hates public transportation, but at least she has people to keep her company. She has yet to mention anything to them about Genesis¡­ But maybe that¡¯s for the better. A skeleton in her closet that no one else needs to know about. Exhausted, the group gets off of the train at the same stop, not too far from Bird¡¯s Eye.


    ¡°Right lads, who needs a ride home?¡± Lisa offers. ¡°I should still be parked at the station.¡±


    ¡°Since you took my car to the airport¡­¡± Says Thalia. ¡°I may need one. And get it back sooner rather than later, yeah?¡± She adds with a smile.


    ¡°I¡¯m going with Thalia!¡± Lumi exclaims excitedly. I get that bats are nocturnal, but that¡¯s just ridiculous. How are you still not tired?¡±


    ¡°Yeah, yeah, we get that.¡± Says the panther.


    ¡°I can walk.¡± Says Yaroslav. ¡°I should call the wife soon¡­¡± He mutters to himself, looking slightly concerned before leaving.


    ¡°I¡¯m sleeping at the station.¡± Adelar states. ¡°I do not feel like walking up four sets of stairs because the lift is broken down again.¡±


    ¡°I feel like I haven¡¯t slept at all these past few days.¡± Durazo states with a yawn.


    ¡°You slept through most of the train rides.¡± The eagle claims.


    ¡°...I¡¯m sleeping here too.¡± Says the canine.


    ¡°Right, the rest of you lot, get in.¡± Lisa orders as Solomon says goodnight to the rest.


    Lisa takes Thalia home, Lumi stays with her. The panther doesn¡¯t protest, as the bat seems to respect her greatly. Not to mention, she can likely handle her if she does get any ideas.


    ¡°Hey, if you don¡¯t mind¡­¡± Solomon begins to say, finally alone with Lisa. ¡±Mind if I sleep at your place?¡±


    ¡°You already know I don¡¯t.¡± Lisa says in response. ¡°I¡¯d like to hear more of what happened to you. You left off at having a steam bath with that lynx, yeah?¡±


    Solomon is brought to Lisa¡¯s house. The wolf stretches her arms as she enters, then puts on some relaxing classical music. The sense of familiarity Solomon feels in her old-fashioned, eccentric home is exactly what she needed.


    ¡°Now I know you ain¡¯t much of a drinker¡­¡± Lisa says as she pulls a book out slightly from the bookshelf in front of that one strangely placed wall. Solomon hears the click of a lock. ¡°But come on. We got you back. That¡¯s pretty fuckin¡¯ neat, innit?¡± She says with a smile.


    Solomon is glad to see that she hasn¡¯t changed a bit. Then she realises that she was only gone for a little over a week. She feels like she aged three years plus Genesis¡¯ age, in comparison.


    ¡°You know, I could use some of that, actually.¡± She says, wondering what the wolf is doing. Lisa then slowly swings the bookshelf open like a door, revealing a hidden room behind it, which leaves the cat surprised. ¡°That would explain the unused space.¡±


    Lisa goes through the door, Solomon can¡¯t help her curiosity and follows her in. From the doorway, the first thing she sees is a large corkwood board with a desk in front of it. On it is a small box of thumbtacks, a stack of empty notepapers, a ball of red string, a magnifying glass and different-coloured felt tip pens. ¡°She takes this more seriously than I thought¡­¡±


    Looking to the left, Solomon sees a collection of framed photos, all but one depicting Lisa and at least one other person. In every single one of them, she is wearing a blue trench coat and chequered trousers, those that show the legs, that is, and the same, brimmed hat Solomon is used to seeing by now. In some, Lisa is next to an almost identical-looking, save for the outfit, older female wolf. They both look happy. Solomon figures that it has to be Lisa¡¯s mother.


    In other pictures, she¡¯s with Thalia in generally unassuming locations, like a park or a restaurant. Another picture has a younger Lisa with other people Solomon has never seen or met: a male cougar, a female ferret, a male red fox, a male lizard and a female lizard. She doesn¡¯t remember Lisa ever telling her about these people.


    In the one picture without Lisa are two wolves. One that Solomon saw in other pictures, and another, more grim-looking, male wolf. ¡°They must be her parents.¡±


    Looking to the right, she sees a pondering Lisa looking at a wine rack that is able to hold up to twelve bottles. Only eleven of them are occupied.


    ¡°Woah¡­¡± Says Solomon. ¡°What is this room?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s where I put the important things.¡± Lisa explains without looking at the cat. ¡°Also the drinks, ¡®cause the pantry¡¯s run out of space by the time I got to them.¡± She then reaches for one bottle and pulls it out. It¡¯s a champagne brand Solomon knows, maybe not for the right reasons, but she won¡¯t be putting in complaints because of that.


    ¡°That¡¯ll do it.¡± Lisa then turns to leave. As Solomon follows, she sees that the inner side of the bookshelf door has a regular door handle.


    Lisa fetches two champagne glasses and then opens the bottle with a loud pop. She pours the glasses full.


    ¡°Cheers, mate!¡± Says Lisa, downing the drink.


    ¡°Cheers!¡± Solomon does the same. ¡°Maybe¡­ Maybe this is the time to do it.¡± She then puts one arm around Lisa and thinks about confessing her feelings. The warmth of the wolf is something she has missed more than she ever could have imagined, and now, she will make sure that nothing can take that away from her again. She¡¯s finally with the one she¡¯s grown to love in her absence¡­ And she thinks about doing it for one long moment.


    ¡°It¡¯s good to be back.¡± She says, finally, unable to bring herself to properly say it. ¡°I want it to be perfect.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s good to have ya back, Rox!¡± Lisa responds, pulling her into a friendly hug with one arm.

 Chapter 27 - Addendum

    Two weeks have passed since Solomon escaped the Lightborn, with no more incidents reported regarding them. Adelar decided that he¡¯d take the front a little more seriously, refusing to accept any more petty calls, much to Lisa¡¯s delight. He also had plans to have the station renovated so it would no longer look as abandoned as it once was. The team continued working there, as the money was still great.


    Solomon found herself visiting Lisa more and more, working up her courage each time. She imagined the scenario multiple times and carefully prepared for the occasion, hoping that anxiety wouldn¡¯t overtake her in the worst possible moment. Lisa didn¡¯t seem to pick up on her subtle hints throughout the way, however, which she found a little bothersome.


    Now, standing in front of the bathroom mirror, wearing her favourite flower pattern dress and scarf, she feels ready.


    ¡°How do I look?¡± She asks, from an outside perspective, no one.


    ¡°I may not know today¡¯s fashion, but my guess is ¡°pretty good¡±.¡± Genesis writes. She has grown pretty comfortable with him, even if she gets bouts of existential terror at times because of his ever-present proximity. ¡°Good enough.¡± She thought about telling people her situation with him extensively. Given how she can¡¯t possibly tell how they would react to it, she decided to deal with him herself. At the end of the day, she seems to get along with Genesis anyway.


    She inspects herself in the mirror one more time.


    ¡°Alright, now leave me alone as much as you can. This¡­ This is extremely important to me. Don¡¯t look, don¡¯t listen, don¡¯t do anything, please.¡± She whispers. Genesis gives her a thumbs up, and with a warm feeling, she senses his very presence retreat into the depths of her mind, causing her a short-lived headache. ¡°Just like we agreed.¡±


    Grateful, she exhales deeply and exits the bathroom. She goes downstairs where Lisa is sitting on her couch, watching some detective series.


    ¡°Mind if I put on some music?¡± Solomon asks, hoping that the wolf doesn''t find it weird that she wants to listen to music while she¡¯s watching something.


    ¡°Yeah, go ahead.¡± Lisa says with a nod.


    Excited, Solomon goes to the modernised phonograph and connects her phone to it. ¡°Here we go.¡± She puts on an old classical waltz song, one that should be all too familiar to Lisa.


    ¡°Care for a dance?¡± Solomon asks, reaching out with her hand. The wolf¡¯s eyes open wide as her gaze snaps towards the cat, unable to hide her surprise, or blush, and hesitates. ¡°Please¡­¡±


    Lisa then turns off the TV and takes her hand with a pleasant smile.


    And so, they dance. It¡¯s a dance commonly associated with the song, Solomon was hoping that it¡¯s what Lisa had in mind for when she would dance with her partner. It turns out to be slightly different, she has trouble following Lisa¡¯s steps at first, but eventually figures out the rhythm to it. She makes a couple missteps, but Lisa doesn¡¯t seem to care, knowing exactly what Solomon means with this song and dance, and has accepted it. Throughout the dance, Solomon doesn¡¯t feel anything from Genesis, she doesn¡¯t even think about him, letting herself get immersed in the moment. She can hardly bear the anticipation rising with each step, as well as misstep, but the truly happy smile of the wolf fills her with confidence.


    As the song finishes, Lisa spins Solomon around and then holds her, looking into her eyes for what feels like an eternity. The dance is finished, Solomon feels her heart pounding in her chest, waiting for Lisa to say something, anything.


    ¡°Rox¡­ You remembered!¡± Lisa says eventually, causing the cat to calm down slightly. ¡°Is this really how you feel?¡±


    ¡°Without a doubt, Lisa.¡± Solomon says, holding onto the wolf. ¡°I¡¯ve never been so sure of that in my life.¡±


    Lisa then pulls Solomon in to kiss her, something she¡¯s been waiting for for quite some time. The feeling is unlike anything, worth everything she went through, truly, the spark that was missing from her life.


    ¡°This was¡­ Frankly amazing, Rox.¡± Lisa says with a slightly shaky voice.


    ¡°Was the dance like how you imagined?¡± Solomon gently pulls Lisa down on the couch in a warm, passionate embrace.


    ¡°Just like that, and even more.¡±


    ¡°At least I got some good news.¡± Thalia says as she walks into the living room where Lumi is sitting on a sofa that is covered with brown paper, looking entirely too excited to be in the panther¡¯s presence. She is now wearing decidedly more normal clothes, a grey shirt with a black pair of trousers. Thalia then puts a paintbrush and a small can of grey paint, meant to be used on fur, on a table next to the sofa. The bat eyes it suspiciously. In the past week, she wanted to know more and more about the power of True Darkness, something not even Thalia herself knows that much about. She may have a slight aversion to her own power, but it has gotten her out of (or into) bad situations.


    ¡°I spoke to Zeus, he said that he¡¯ll make an exception, as we really, really need someone to help Hades with the freezer. Poor bloke can¡¯t handle that along with the heating alone.¡±


    ¡°I have the power of frost as well, that will make things easier.¡± Says Lumi, looking eager to help. Thalia feels her phone vibrate inside her pocket. She takes it out, sees that it¡¯s a text message from someone in The System, begging her to please reconsider and join the organisation. She dismisses the message and puts her phone back in her pocket. ¡°I really wish they stopped doing that.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m glad you agreed to help, with my expenses on paint, I¡¯ll really need it.¡± Thalia opens the can of paint and dips the tip of the paintbrush into it, a motion she¡¯s all too used to by now.


    ¡°Speaking of, those bastards at the shop raised the price of the one colour I need most!¡± She complains. ¡°I just about single handedly keep them from going out of business and that¡¯s how they repay me?¡± She continues and takes a step towards Lumi. ¡°I never see anyone else there! Watch them raise the price of this one too after I buy a can like, two times.¡± She bends down to inspect the bat¡¯s face better. ¡°Now, stay still.¡±


    ¡°You would cover up my markings?¡± Lumi accuses, looking less excited now.


    ¡°Zeus wants a meeting with you tomorrow. I¡¯ll need to make you look more, shall we say, presentable.¡± Thalia explains. ¡°It¡¯s either this, or a mask.¡±


    ¡°...fine.¡± Lumi says with a sigh.


    With one stroke of the paintbrush, Thalia applies the grey paint onto Lumi¡¯s face, covering a little bit of the black marking above her right eye. To her delight, the colour matches well enough.


    ¡°That¡¯ll do it. We¡¯ll still need to explain why your eye looks¡­ Like that. No offence.¡± Thalia says as she dips the tip of the brush into the paint again.


    ¡°Just say that it¡¯s a condition or something.¡± Lumi suggests as she leans back on the sofa.


    ¡°That¡¯ll work.¡± Thalia covers more and more of the markings on Lumi¡¯s face. ¡°We¡¯ll need to think of a moniker for you too. Some think it¡¯s a stupid gimmick, but I think it has its charm.¡±


    More strokes of the brush, more paint gone from the can, but still plenty left to cover the rest of her. With that, Lumi¡¯s face looks considerably less intimidating. Thalia takes a step back to look at her from a distance, then hands her a small mirror. Lumi looks at herself, Thalia can tell that she would much rather show off her markings.


    This narrative has been unlawfully taken from Royal Road. If you see it on Amazon, please report it.


    ¡°Definitely not what I¡¯m used to.¡± She says with a slightly forlorn expression.


    ¡°Oh, I know!¡± Thalia exclaims. ¡°How about Dolos?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t know what that means, but I trust your choice.¡± Lumi responds with a smile.


    ¡°Try to avoid the rain.¡± Thalia advises. ¡°Also, try not to activate your powers too often. That¡¯ll make the paint fade even faster. I already need to repaint myself every other day.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s a manifestation of magic, of course it doesn¡¯t like being covered!¡± Lumi explains. ¡°Darkness especially. My people know a lot about it, but True Darkness¡­ It will be an honour to be your disciple!¡± She says with a slight bow. ¡°I feel like I¡¯ll be learning a lot more from her than she will from me.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯d prefer you to call me more of a housemate. Or even a friend!¡± Says Thalia. ¡°I have to admit, I could use some company around here.¡±


    ¡°To be in the company of¡­¡± The bat pauses, choosing to rephrase her words. ¡°You. That is the highest honour for me.¡±


    ¡°Seriously, just think of me as a friend. That¡¯ll make things easier for everyone.¡± Thalia crosses her arms.


    ¡°I will...¡± Lumi nods. ¡°My friend.¡±


    ¡°Very good, very good!¡± Adelar says into his phone at the Bird¡¯s Eye station. ¡°Glad we could settle that. Thanks, bye!¡± He hangs up and turns in his chair to look at two of his employees present. ¡°That should take care of that. I¡¯m told that they can start working on the station as soon as next week.¡±


    ¡°Great!¡± Yaroslav exclaims, putting a hand on a rather sombre-looking Durazo¡¯s shoulder, snapping him out of his train of thought. ¡°Hear that, Father?¡±


    ¡°Oh, yes.¡± He states in a low voice. ¡°Quite nice.¡±


    ¡°Still thinking about Antonio?¡± The bear questions compassionately. ¡°I understand. It can¡¯t be easy-¡±


    ¡°Not at all!¡± Durazo responds firmly with a smile. ¡°I¡¯m glad he¡¯s gone! I¡¯m more concerned about¡­ Everything else. The System, the cult¡­ What will come of us?¡±


    ¡°Well since Ludwig¡¯s dead and gone¡­¡± Adelar says with an exceedingly satisfied look. ¡°And since Shaquia seems like a rather helpful leader, I¡¯m thinking of a possible partnership.¡± He says, to the surprise of his employees.


    ¡°I thought you hated them?¡± Durazo argues.


    ¡°I hated that Ludwig took what was rightfully ours all for himself. Now¡­¡± He chuckles, confident in his decision. ¡°I will have to change that. I¡¯m certain it will infuriate him even further as he¡¯s looking at me from down below.¡±


    ¡°Your choice, boss.¡± Yaroslav shrugs. ¡°Anyone called for additional jobs?¡±


    ¡°Why yes.¡± Adelar takes out a piece of paper and writes down the details from memory. ¡°Given how Lisa insisted that she go with Solomon, I do have something for the two of you.¡± He hands them the paper. ¡°The Church of Benevolence in Millport could use a little help investigating possible fraud.¡±


    The paper details the suspiciously high price of ¡°renovations¡± of a church, which reportedly only included repainting and lacquering a few pieces of furniture, as told by a painter who came forward.


    ¡°I¡¯m no expert, but given what I was just told, that doesn¡¯t warrant a million pounds, now does it?¡± Adelar asks with a smirk. ¡°Look into it, yes?¡±


    ¡°You got it, boss!¡± Yaroslav says with a hearty laugh, which Durazo joins in on in agreement.


    Adelar¡¯s phone then starts ringing, causing them to stop.


    ¡°And I thought we wouldn¡¯t be so busy now.¡± He remarks. ¡°Even still, we¡¯ll need to make sure you have time for training. Off you go now!¡±


    With a wink, he picks up the phone.


    ¡°Any response from Thalia yet?¡± Shaquia asks, sitting at the desk her former boss used to. Her new position has caused her no end of stress since the Lightborn incident. ¡°Am I glad they left us alone for now¡­ Thank you for the info on them, Grayson.¡±


    ¡°She doesn¡¯t even read the messages anymore, let alone answer our phone calls.¡± Benedict responds, standing in between Sheila, now with two working eyes, and Andreas.


    ¡°God damnit¡­¡± Shaquia rubs her temples. ¡°True Darkness hasn¡¯t been identified since what, the 15th century? According to our records?¡±


    ¡°At least Solomon seems to be cooperative, sire.¡± Says Andreas, causing the lynx to sigh.


    ¡°Yes, she is, but the ancient Mystic One inside her that could actually answer just about all of our questions, isn¡¯t.¡± She says in an exasperated tone as she eyes Benedict. ¡°Ever since you pushed the subject of creating magic.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry!¡± Says the raccoon. ¡°How was I supposed to know that he¡¯s so sentimental about it?¡±


    ¡°That makes two people whose mere presence he despises.¡± Sheila chimes in. ¡°After what, two sessions? That¡¯s just impressive.¡±


    ¡°Listen.¡± Shaquia begins to say in an irritated tone. ¡°We need all the help we can get after that travesty that happened at that castle. Wel lost too many men, more have straight up resigned after it.¡±


    ¡°At least we know where they are now!¡± Benedict tries to bring in some positivity. ¡°Grayson¡¯s plan is working pretty flawlessly, and you know, I couldn¡¯t help but notice that people have been taking less sick leaves ever since you took over.¡±


    ¡°I guess that¡¯s a good thing.¡± Shaquia sighs deeply. ¡°We can be glad we have access to the old man¡¯s funds. Lion¡¯s Den wouldn¡¯t be in such decent shape already if it wasn¡¯t for that.¡±


    ¡°We¡¯ll need new staff for that too.¡± Sheila states, pitying the lynx. ¡°Are you sure we shouldn¡¯t reach out to-¡±


    ¡°I promised Solomon not to bother her friends.¡± Shaquia retorts, albeit in a calm manner. ¡°I won¡¯t go back on my word there. As soon as the current candidates are ready, we¡¯ll send them there.¡± She glances at Sheila specifically. ¡°And before you say anything, Thalia is different. I would be willing to do a lot, just to have an audience with her.¡±


    ¡°Maybe pestering her about it isn¡¯t how you¡¯ll get her to come and visit, sire?¡± Andreas suggests.


    ¡°We can¡¯t just go knocking on her door.¡± Says the lynx. ¡°Until further notice, we¡¯ll discontinue trying to get in contact with her.¡± She states, feeling defeated. The others seem to accept her decision. ¡°Maybe she¡¯ll soften up to it with time. For now, let¡¯s just be grateful that Solomon agrees to come here and provide info.¡± She stands up from the desk. ¡°Now if you¡¯ll excuse me¡­ I need a break.¡±


    ¡°I CANNOT believe you tried to do that.¡± Says Haemon, sitting at a table in the Lighborn castle, playing cards with Rufina and Fulmine.


    ¡°That¡¯s the one time I¡¯ll admit that I have regrets.¡± Says the electric bat, all too casual for Haemon¡¯s liking. ¡°But it¡¯s been two weeks, Haemon, even I got over it. And it happened to me!¡±


    ¡°To be fair, Solomon did save my life, in a way.¡± Rufina says as she looks at her hand of cards.


    That name¡­ Solomon. Haemon has grown to hate it even more.


    ¡°If she never showed up in the first place, none of this would have happened.¡± He puts down his hand of cards. Three of a kind. ¡°It¡¯s bad if you have regrets about it.¡± He scowls at Fulmine.


    ¡°Yeah, I regret not getting to share a night with her!¡± Fulmine puts down his hand. A full house.


    ¡°Oh, come on¡­¡± Says Haemon. ¡°You never learn, do you? Should have just shocked her when you still could.¡±


    ¡°Brother, all she wanted was to leave.¡± Rufina puts down her hand. Four of a kind. Fulmine shakes his head as she claims her winnings of twenty poker chips, mostly black. ¡°Anyone know how much this would be worth?¡±


    Haemon looks around the hall to see if Luxor has come back from wherever he went yet.


    ¡°He wouldn¡¯t have let her leave. You know that.¡± He whispers. ¡°I¡¯m glad she¡¯s gone, but we paid the price for it.¡±


    Like clockwork, the white fox walks through the doorway on the right side of the hall. Rather than an open, white robe, he is wearing a closed, black one. The bats watch him go to sit down on the marble throne without a word, one hand supporting his head, this time not in boredom, but in sadness. He closes his glowing eyes, they somehow appear dimmer than they did before.


    ¡°It really got to him, huh?¡± Fulmine whispers as he shuffles the deck. ¡°One day in black for each follower who died or disappeared that day. How many days does he have left?¡±


    ¡°Eight.¡± Says Rufina. ¡°Or nine, if we count Lumi, but something tells me that we shouldn¡¯t.¡±


    ¡°He even put off the search for more light until then.¡± Haemon adds. ¡°Can you believe that?¡±


    ¡°You think he blames himself?¡± Fulmine deals a hand of five cards to each of them. ¡°He did a decent job hiding those who can¡¯t or won¡¯t fight¡­ But you have to wonder, no?¡± He asks with a concerned expression as he slides five more chips to the centre of the table, so do the other two.


    ¡°He¡¯s supposed to be a God, remember?¡± Haemon looks at his hand and tries to keep a straight face. 2 of diamonds, 3 of spades, 4 of diamonds, 5 of clubs, 7 of hearts. ¡°He¡¯s cheating.¡±


    ¡°People came here for comfort, healing, and belief, a Paradise. They got the opposite that day.¡±


    ¡°Give him some time.¡± Rufina adds, sliding 15 more chips to the centre. Fulmine throws his hand down, having four of a kind. ¡°He¡¯ll be back in his old self soon.¡± She reveals her hand, three of a kind. Fulmine makes a smug smile as he reaps the rewards that would be worth a pretty penny in an actual game.


    ¡°I¡¯m sure he will, sister.¡± Haemon grins. ¡°I¡¯m sure he will.¡±

 Chapter 28 - Calm Before the Storm

    Lisa was sitting on her living room couch alone, a cosy fire providing some much-needed warmth on an unnaturally cool May evening. The Sun had already set, there wasn''t a single noise outside, save for the soft chirping of crickets. Of the many things she liked about her residence, the distance from all the other houses certainly was one of them.


    She was watching a series she used to like before the original writers dropped it. The change in quality sure was an indication of that.


    ¡°Three awards, my fuckin¡¯ arse!¡± Lisa said in frustration at an egregiously melodramatic and unrealistic scene, turning off the TV. She then checked her phone, only to get a warning that its battery was below ten percent. She dismissed the warning, put one finger at its charging port, and powered up her electric magic. A steady, but mild stream of electricity began flowing into her phone. She stood up, absentmindedly went to the kitchen, and began filling the kettle with tap water.


    As she prepared, she turned around and spotted Solomon¡¯s notebook on the kitchen table a short distance away.


    ¡°Ah great, Rox left it here. Bet she¡¯s real happy ¡®bout that¡­¡± Lisa understood how important hobbies could be for people, but she could never quite get why Solomon¡¯s was whatever modern art piece she was working on. She paid no mind to it, she was just happy that her girlfriend was happy.


    She turned on the kettle, in which the water soon started to boil. While still charging her phone, she made herself a cup of tea. She kept enough water in the kettle for another, knowing that Solomon would be back soon.


    She sat back down on the couch, enjoying the silence after the travesty she had just witnessed. Taking a sip, she paused and perked her ears. Sure enough, the silence was broken by the sound of the high-pitched buzz of a mosquito. Her eyes darted around the room until she finally spotted the little pest as it landed on her right hand.


    ¡°Why you little¡­¡± Brilliant blue arcs jumped around her entire arm, one hitting the insect with enough voltage to completely vaporise it. A smug smile stretched across her face, thoroughly satisfied. The many uses of her magic, although mostly the powering of electronics, certainly made her life easier.


    Lisa sniffed the air and could already tell that Solomon was close to her house. Her scent was unmistakable, the exorbitantly overpriced flower-scented shampoo she used only made it easier to differentiate her. There was one more thing she noticed over the weeks, specifically around her hands. It was subtle, even a wolf would have a hard time picking up on it unless in direct proximity, but her hands¡­ They had a very, very faint smell of sulphur. Like most felines, Solomon made sure that she was clean all the time, but no matter how many times she washed her hands or showered, she never could quite get rid of it. Lisa just didn¡¯t have the heart to tell her that, she wasn¡¯t even sure if she knew. Ever since she noticed it, however, she could sniff it out from much farther away if she needed to.


    As if on cue, her front door then opened.


    ¡°Bonsoir, Lisa.¡± Said the cat as she stepped in, wearing her flower-pattern dress and red scarf with gloves to go along with the rest of her outfit. Lisa leaned back on the couch to hide her excited, wagging tail.


    ¡°¡®Sup, Rox?¡± Lisa said cordially. ¡°Had fun at Thali¡¯s?¡±


    ¡°Oh, you know.¡± Solomon waved. ¡°The usual. Had a good talk.¡± She looked around, scratching the back of her head.


    ¡°Forgot somethin¡¯?¡± Lisa asked, already knowing the answer.


    Solomon looked as if she just saw something much worse than a ghost, then quickly relaxed and laughed awkwardly.


    ¡°Yeah¡­ Have you seen my notebook?¡± The cat asked.


    ¡°It¡¯s in the kitchen.¡± Lisa responded candidly. ¡°How do you even come up with those symbols?¡± She chuckled.


    ¡°Simple, really.¡± Solomon was halfway to the kitchen already. ¡°Creativity.¡± She retrieved and pocketed her notebook, then went back to the living room and sat down next to Lisa, who put an arm around her.


    ¡°As long as it makes you happy, Rox.¡± Lisa sniffed the air again and raised an eyebrow at Solomon, catching the aroma of whisky. ¡°Thought you said you weren¡¯t much of a drinker?¡±


    ¡°Well¡­¡± The cat sighed. ¡°Thalia said she could use it to calm her nerves and offered me some. You have to try new things sometimes! Even if you regret it...¡± She shuddered. ¡°It¡¯s as if I was drinking acid without immunity.¡±


    ¡°S¡¯pose you¡¯d like some tea after that?¡± Lisa chuckled, taking Solomon¡¯s hand in hers.


    ¡°Oh, I¡¯d love that, please.¡± The cat said after a moment of concern, due to her magic. ¡°I¡¯ll go take a shower.¡± She announced.


    ¡°You do that, dear.¡± Lisa petted her head and stood up to make her a cup. In the meantime, Solomon went to the bathroom.


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    Lisa felt incredibly grateful to have Solomon. Sure, she may have had a few partners before, but she felt like things didn¡¯t click quite as much. She had thought that Thalia would finally be the one for quite some time, but it all ended up the same.


    Solomon, however, she knew. She just knew that she was the one. She liked just about everything about the cat. From her decidedly short stature to her anxious, yet honest personality, her accent¡­ It was all so alluring and cute to her.


    Pouring the boiling water into a cup, she shed a single tear. ¡°After all these years¡­¡±


    She went up to the first floor and put the cup on the railing. Not the safest place, but she figured Solomon would notice it there easily enough. She then went to her room and changed into her pyjamas, which definitely was a change in her wardrobe. She put on a pair of blue, baggy trousers and a shirt that Solomon got her around a week before. It was all black, save for the simple white outline of an almost empty battery with text below it reading ¡°Recharge Needed¡±. She thought it was extremely cheesy, but loved it nonetheless.


    Lisa then lay down in her bed. That queen-sized bed of hers, would be justified once again. She couldn¡¯t wait to have Solomon move in¡­


    It took the cat way longer to dry herself than to finish showering, something that Lisa was used to. She heard the bathroom door open, followed by the distinct clink of a spoon in a teacup. Solomon then walked into her room, wearing but a white shirt and black underwear, holding the cup in one hand.


    Lisa smiled as the cat gulped down the tea.


    ¡°I really needed that¡­¡± Solomon sighed, her tail swaying.


    ¡°The shower or the tea?¡± Lisa teased as Solomon put the cup on the nightstand.


    ¡°Both, actually.¡± The cat briefly left the room and returned with her phone and notebook, which she also put on the nightstand before she lay down next to Lisa.


    ¡°Excited for the trip next week, Rox?¡± Lisa asked as Solomon looked at her hands. She did that often, Lisa felt like Solomon never quite got over her magic. Or at least not as easily as she did.


    ¡°You bet!¡± Solomon said excitedly, briefly looking away from her hands.


    ¡°Relax, Rox.¡± Lisa hugged the feline tightly. She could hear her stifle a gasp before she returned the hug. This magic of hers¡­ Acid. Lisa may not have seen what it can do, but Solomon has told her enough about it. The sheer pain and suffering she could inflict¡­


    ¡°¡®Cept she won¡¯t.¡± Lisa felt like Solomon was more scared of her power than she was. If anything, the feeling should have been mutual. Lisa trusted Solomon not to use her magic on her as much as she trusted her not to shock her. She knew that neither of those would happen.


    ¡°I can hardly believe our schedules finally lined up.¡± Lisa stated, gently petting Solomon¡¯s back. ¡°Seriously, Yaro goes back home every month and this is the first time we could actually do this! Like come on, we¡¯ve been planning a trip like this for like, a year now?¡±


    ¡°That long?¡± Solomon questioned. ¡°Can¡¯t you just take a few days off like I did?¡±


    ¡°Now to be fair¡­¡± Lisa yawned. ¡°We were quite busy with some other things these last few months.¡±


    Their heartfelt moment was broken by the sound of a notification coming from Solomon¡¯s phone. A distinct one that she had set specifically for one person.


    Annoyed, Solomon turned around in bed and picked up her phone to look at the message.


    ¡°Merde¡­¡± She sighed. Lisa may not have spoken French, but she¡¯s come to understand what made Solomon say that in particular.


    ¡°What is it this time?¡± Lisa asked, more upset than concerned.


    ¡°Shaquia wants me to come in tomorrow.¡± Solomon put down her phone. ¡°She says it¡¯s important.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re joking, right?¡± Lisa complained. ¡°You were there this week already! I¡¯m tellin¡¯ ya, they¡¯re getting way too daft now.¡±


    ¡°Too bad, I guess.¡± Solomon shrugged. ¡°Don¡¯t worry, I¡¯ll try to make it quick.¡±


    And that, that was the one thing Lisa didn¡¯t quite like about Solomon. To some people, she just couldn¡¯t say no. She really wanted to have a few words with Shaquia, but Solomon insisted that she didn¡¯t.


    ¡°Well, Adelar¡¯s not gonna like me mucking about with my schedule to spend my days off with you. I can tell that already.¡± Lisa scoffed. She then hugged Solomon from behind, which made her calm down significantly.


    ¡°What are they even researching with you?¡± Lisa questioned, more quietly. ¡°There¡¯s only so much you can find out about magical acid!¡±


    ¡°You¡¯d be surprised.¡± Solomon giggled.


    ¡°Am I glad those twats ain¡¯t so curious about electricity.¡± Lisa remarked. ¡°Still, promise you¡¯ll be safe, Rox. If something happens to you, I will go and¡­¡± Lisa paused and furrowed her eyebrows. ¡°Have a word with them, shall we say.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯ll be fine, Lisa.¡± Solomon turned around and embraced the wolf. Lisa wasn¡¯t so sure for how long it¡¯d be fine, but the hug reassured her enough for the time being.


    ¡°At least those lunatics are keeping quiet.¡± Lisa stated, thinking back to the incident. She had no regrets, she would do everything all over again if needed to. ¡°It¡¯s been what, two months? Do they at least have plans for them?¡±


    ¡°Plans? They sure have those.¡± Solomon scoffed. ¡°They have way too many and don¡¯t know which will work for sure.¡±


    ¡°I thought these guys were professionals.¡± The wolf remarked. ¡°Whatever¡­ Just be safe.¡±


    ¡°I will!¡± Solomon affirmed, like she always did. ¡°I know a thing or two now. I can protect myself if I need to.¡± She said in a tone that Lisa found a little strange, as if she had some regrets, or perhaps doubts about it. ¡°I really hope you won¡¯t have to do that.¡±


    ¡°And I believe that.¡± Lisa then caressed the cat¡¯s face and gave her a kiss. ¡°Goodnight, Roxy.¡±


    ¡°Goodnight!¡± Solomon said as she closed her eyes and purred softly.


    ¡°This¡­ This makes it all worth it.¡±

 Chapter 29 - Observation

    Solomon woke up to the sound of her phone¡¯s alarm that she had set the night before, a simple sound to mimic an actual alarm clock. Groggily, she sat up and shut it off with a yawn and then got on her knees, leaning forward with outstretched arms and claws, arching her back to stretch. ¡°I¡¯m still not a morning person¡­¡±


    She sensed that Genesis was much like he has always been: not tired. Frankly, she envied the ancient soul for that. Not needing sleep was something she would certainly find useful! She had to wonder what he was doing every night, however. Just deep inside her mind¡­


    ¡°How long ¡®til someone comes to pick ya up?¡± Lisa asked, half asleep still.


    ¡°Shouldn¡¯t be too long.¡± Solomon said, no more than a guess. ¡°But it varies, so I should prepare.¡±


    The cat then got up and stepped towards the door before the whole room suddenly got illuminated with a blue light. She whipped around to see her girlfriend covered with electricity as she got up from bed, not so sleepy anymore at that moment.


    ¡°Do you really need to do that every time?¡± She asked.


    ¡°Gets me energised.¡± Lisa shrugged, powering down her magic with a wink.


    ¡°You know you can just¡­ Go back to sleep, right?¡± Solomon questioned, a notion she shared with Genesis.


    ¡°I¡¯m already up. Might as well get a couple things done before work.¡± Lisa said as she went to open her closet and took out a set of her clothing, one of seven grey shirts, blue trench coats, and chequered trousers along with dark blue underwear.


    ¡°Your call.¡± Solomon shrugged as she stepped outside and went down the stairs to have a short meal before she needed to leave. She could hear the not-so-soft taps of Lisa¡¯s cane on the first floor not long after. The wolf was fully dressed already.


    ¡°So what do you think they¡¯ll want this time?¡± Lisa asked, opening the fridge and taking out a couple of chicken legs to microwave.


    ¡°We¡¯ve been looking into more uses of the acid and the black muck it leaves behind.¡± Solomon explained as Lisa got ready to eat. ¡°They concluded that the muck is pretty much useless. What they¡¯ll want today¡­ Not sure.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s just acid.¡± Lisa guessed. ¡°Seems pretty simple to me. Mine is just electricity, nothing more to it.¡±


    Solomon couldn¡¯t help but feel guilty. The System spent most of the time asking Genesis questions, rather than her. He could answer and demonstrate pretty much everything they wanted him to, as long as he was willing. From different shapes and formations, anything that wasn¡¯t a projectile, not in the sense they had apparently had in mind. She felt guilty for not telling Lisa about Genesis, for not telling the whole story. She felt so, so remorseful for that, but just had no idea how she would react. But tell, she would. One day, she would, she swore on that.


    ¡°There are always more things to be found out.¡± The feline began to say. ¡°After all, it¡¯s-¡±


    Crunch.


    Solomon paused at the noise, which was Lisa effortlessly biting through the bone of her meal.


    ¡°What?¡± The wolf asked before eating the other half of the bone as well.


    ¡°I¡¯ll need to get used to that.¡± Said Solomon. While she loved fish, she could never imagine just eating the bones like that.


    Lisa simply chuckled at what she said.


    Sipping a cup of coffee in a likely vain attempt to help wake up better, Solomon heard the sound of a car pulling up to Lisa¡¯s driveway. Lisa looked through the window and nodded.


    ¡°I recognise that licence plate.¡± Said the wolf. ¡°Same guy as last time.¡±


    Solomon¡¯s ears perked up, feeling a lot more awake all of a sudden. She quickly downed the rest of the coffee and rushed upstairs, grabbing the first piece of clothing she saw, a slightly darker red dress with orchid patterns. After she properly got dressed, she pocketed her phone and ran back down and to the front door.


    ¡°That¡¯s got to be the fastest you¡¯ve ever gotten ready.¡± Lisa remarked with a giggle.


    Solomon paused and took her time to do one more thing before she left. She walked up to Lisa and gave her a quick kiss followed by a warm smile.


    ¡°I¡¯ll be back when I¡¯m done, will let you know!¡± She said, opening the front door.


    ¡°I¡¯ll be waitin¡¯!¡± Lisa said, her tail wagging vigorously. ¡°If any of those dickheads want you to do somethin¡¯ dangerous again, please don¡¯t agree.¡±


    ¡°Alright, I¡¯ll try!¡± Solomon chuckled, stepping outside. ¡°Au revoir!¡±


    ¡°Be safe, Roxy!¡± Lisa waved her goodbye.


    Solomon got into the familiar black car¡¯s backseat and greeted the driver.


    ¡°What was so urgent that I needed to come in today?¡± Solomon asked a few minutes into the trip.


    ¡°I¡¯m just the driver.¡± Said the canine in the seat in front of her. ¡°I¡¯m paid to get you there and to shut up when I¡¯m not doing that.¡±


    ¡°Fair, fair.¡± She took out her phone to check if anything had happened during the night and spent the rest of the drive glancing from her phone to outside the window, like usual.


    Nearing the end of a relatively long trip that Solomon has all but gotten used to, she wrote to Shaquia that she was near before finally arriving at The System HQ. Lisa even called her to very excitedly tell her about who she met that day while she was travelling.


    From the outside, nothing has changed despite the new leadership. Stepping into the building and looking around the massive main hall, she spotted Shaquia, the new leader of The System, talking on a radio. She hardly seemed to even notice her as she walked up to her, waiting to be told whatever it was that she needed.


    ¡°I¡¯ll get back to you on that later.¡± The snow lynx said into the radio as she slightly turned her head. ¡°Hey Solomon. Sorry for the last-minute call, but we finally got what we needed delivered.¡±


    ¡°That being?¡± She inquired, perking one ear.


    ¡°The acids, remember?¡± Shaquia then turned around and gestured to her to follow. ¡°It was harder to get a hold of some of these than we had thought.¡±


    ¡°I can imagine.¡± Said the cat, recalling a conversation about testing her powers with non-magical acid. She sensed that Genesis was suspicious. Of whom, what or why, however she had no idea. ¡°Maybe the way they got the acids? It¡¯s not like they¡¯re saints exactly.¡±


    ¡°Any news on the Lightborn?¡± Solomon asked.


    ¡°Nothing new since last time.¡± Shaquia answered with slight relief in her voice. ¡°Luxor¡¯s still just sitting around all day, according to Grayson¡¯s info. Gave us plenty of time for some contingencies.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s great!¡± Solomon smiled. Their main people of concern being so inactive made her feel that much safer.


    ¡°Although, he didn¡¯t report yesterday or the day before¡­¡± The lynx remarked, which worried Solomon for a moment. ¡°But that¡¯s nothing out of the ordinary, he can skip out a couple times if it keeps him safe. If he doesn¡¯t report today, however, we¡¯ll look into it.¡±


    They soon arrived at a door that had a ¡°corrosive materials¡± text and typical symbol on it, two vials each pouring a liquid onto a flat surface and a hand, both melting. Genesis wanted to have another one added: a dark green spiral symbol, his argument being that it¡¯d get the point across to those that know about it. It also reminded him of the old times. Solomon didn¡¯t agree with him at all on the former, but she wasn¡¯t going to say anything about it if it made him feel better.


    ¡°This test is about which acid could possibly empower you and Genesis. That is, if any of them even do that.¡± Said the lynx as she put her hand on the door handle. ¡°All that formal stuff out of the way¡­¡±


    She opened the door and paused, Solomon could see steam slightly rising up from her. She went to peek inside and saw various chemical equipment and a sink, but sure enough, there was no acid prepared in said room. Shaquia double-checked if they were at the correct door, then raised her radio up to her mouth.


    ¡°Benedict¡­¡± She said in a disappointed tone. ¡°I made sure to staff the warehouse, you really have no excuse this time.¡±


    ¡°What?¡± The raccoon replied in an all too innocent voice.


    ¡°Solomon¡¯s here.¡± The lynx said coldly.


    ¡°What¡¯s that have to do with-¡± An audible gasp could be heard through the radio. ¡°Oh fff¡­ Fiddlesticks!¡± He said as the sound of the radio turning off came through.


    ¡°I guess you¡¯re free to continue reading for the time being.¡± Shaquia stated, rubbing her temples. ¡°I swear¡­¡± She muttered under her breath.


    ¡°It¡¯s okay, I have time!¡± Solomon reassured, pitying the lynx. She knew how stressful it was to run the facility without incidents like that. Genesis simply felt amused. ¡°I¡¯ll go check on Father, then I¡¯ll do that.¡± She added. Shaquia just nodded and turned to leave, presumably to go and find Benedict.


    Solomon made her way through one of the many doors on the second floor where the old canine was, at least for the time being, along with her former instructor Stefano and the rather odd spotted salamander, Sal. The room was more spacious than those used for housing, complete with sets of protective glass, a workbench, tools upon tools upon parts of what appeared to be scrap and various inexplicable gizmos that the salamander had made.


    ¡°I think we really made something this time, Father!¡± Sal exclaimed, holding some sort of sphere, about the size of a tennis ball. ¡°I¡¯ve been telling Shaqie that I just needed some magic to work with! I wonder why she doesn¡¯t trust me with that¡­¡±


    ¡°Me too.¡± Durazo rolled his eyes at his sentence, holding another one of those spheres. He then waved to Solomon with a smile, along with Stefano, who had more of a slight frown.


    ¡°Finished already?¡± Asked the otter, catching the sphere that Sal just threw towards him.


    ¡°Solomon!¡± Said the Salamander. ¡°It¡¯s been ages! Sure feels like it anyway.¡± He went to shake hands with the feline. She could hardly believe that Durazo would be willing to work with Sal of all people. Stefano, she understood, but him¡­ Even if The System offered him protection from the Lightborn, it¡¯s not like he was obligated to help them out to the extent that he did. ¡°Then again, Father loves helping people. I¡¯m surprised he¡¯s not at one of the medical rooms¡­¡±


    ¡°Hey guys!¡± She greeted them. ¡°I hate to say it, but we haven¡¯t even started.¡± She said, specifically to Stefano with a regretful look.


    ¡°What went wrong this time?¡± Durazo inquired.


    ¡°Someone forgot to prepare the acids in a room.¡± Solomon admitted.


    ¡°Ah, great.¡± The otter shook his head. ¡°It¡¯s always the last step with this organisation.¡± He glanced at Sal. ¡°Or the first¡­¡±


    ¡°Anyway Solomon¡­¡± Durazo began to say. ¡°Since I can¡¯t really go with you three on that trip on the off chance that we run into the cult¡­¡± He stepped forward and gave the sphere to the cat. It felt lighter than it looked. ¡°Salvador and I have been working on some new gadgets to give to the members of the org. And for now, you.¡±


    Solomon looked at the sphere, and by all means, it just looked like a regular ball with a stoney texture.


    ¡°What does it do?¡± She asked, she and Genesis alike were confused.


    ¡°It¡¯s filled with light.¡± Durazo explained. ¡°I spent a good while infusing both of these little spheres, we found out something interesting.¡±


    ¡°What do you think happens when you try to infuse an already infused object?¡± Sal grabbed her by the shoulder excitedly. ¡°That¡¯s right! The magic first drains from it!¡±


    ¡°Okay?¡± Solomon glanced from one person to another, hoping for a clearer answer.


    ¡°Let me put it this way.¡± Durazo gently pulled Sal aside with a dissatisfied look. ¡°If you try to infuse this sphere, healing light will shine from it until it¡¯s completely drained of magical infusion. We assume it works in a similar way with other types, but we haven¡¯t gotten permission for testing yet.¡± He explained with pride in his voice.


    Solomon felt a strange sensation from Genesis, one that he hadn¡¯t expressed too much before: admiration.


    ¡°Go on, try it.¡± Durazo said with a smile.


    Trusting the canine¡¯s word, she tried to infuse the sphere. Sure enough, it shone with the same, soothing light that a Bright One would.


    ¡°That¡¯s amazing, Father!¡± She powered down her magic, and with it, the light from the ball.


    ¡°It¡¯s just a ¡°prototype¡± for now, as Salvador put it, but we plan on perfecting it. These two are done, another two will be finished soon. After all, I only have two hands!¡± His smile then turned into a look of concern. ¡°But handle them with care. We don¡¯t quite know what might happen if they broke.¡±


    ¡°Are you sure I should have them?¡± Solomon asked, unsure of how else to respond. Such new findings¡­ She wasn¡¯t ready for something like that, however simple it may be.


    ¡°Since I can¡¯t go with you, yes.¡± The ex-priest reassured her. ¡°Think of it as me being there in spirit!¡±


    ¡°Oh! I have a new idea!¡± Sal exclaimed rather abruptly, pointing at Stefano. ¡°And we¡¯ll need a Bazing One for it!¡±


    ¡°Well then¡­¡± The otter sighed, grabbing his radio as he sat down on a chair. ¡°Sheila it is.¡±


    ¡°Thank you, Father!¡± Solomon went to give the canine a friendly embrace. ¡°Shouldn¡¯t you just keep them for testing though?¡±


    ¡°I can work with the new ones once they¡¯re done.¡± He shrugged off her concerns and handed her the other sphere, which Stefano had put on a nearby table.


    ¡°Sheila, Sal wants something. Can you come to his experiment room?¡± Stefano said into the radio, but there was no response. ¡°Sheila, come in.¡± He waited a few seconds, but still, no response from the lioness.


    ¡°I could go check on her.¡± Solomon offered upon taking note of his rather dour expression.


    ¡°That would be¡­¡± Stefano began to say.


    ¡°Fantastic!¡± Sal cut him off, causing the otter to shake his head. ¡°Thanks for doing that!¡± With that, he went to his workbench and put on a welding mask.


    ¡°I''m going too.¡± Stefano stood up and followed Solomon outside the room.


    Durazo nodded at her as she pocketed the spheres and closed the door. She then began walking down to the fire training room with Stefano.


    ¡°How can someone be so¡­¡± He shook his head for what must have felt like the hundredth time that day. ¡°Eccentric?¡±


    ¡°He sure has a unique personality, eh?¡± Solomon said, which Stefano didn¡¯t really take notice of.


    On the way, she overheard a conversation on the radio.


    ¡°Andreas? Come in?¡± Said the voice of Benedict. ¡°I need help transporting the acid.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re still not finished with that, sire?¡± The crow responded incredulously.


    ¡°Just come help me, please!¡± The raccoon pleaded.


    ¡°Fine.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m surprised he doesn¡¯t work with Sal, right?¡± Solomon made an attempt at lifting Stefano¡¯s mood. He still didn¡¯t take much notice of her. A tired feeling from Genesis told her that she should stop.


    ¡°I can finally return to my business at least.¡± The otter said more to himself, walking past the ¡°Blazing Room¡± as Sheila had named it. ¡°Goodbye.¡±


    ¡°Bye¡­¡± Solomon waved at him, he didn¡¯t turn to look or even glance at her as he walked on. To this day, Solomon felt a sense of immense regret whenever she met Stefano. Perhaps she should have told him the truth about Camille, it was high time for that. Would he even believe it? She wasn¡¯t sure. She figured it was better not to open old wounds. What she had done was done, and there was no way to change that.


    The distinct voice of Sheila shouting inside the room broke her train of thought. ¡°Not the time for this.¡±


    With a sense of tremendous discomfort from Genesis, the main reason why she hadn¡¯t been there before, she opened the door marked with an orange symbol depicting fire to see Sheila training with one of twelve Blazing Ones in a large, well-ventilated room.


    This story has been stolen from Royal Road. If you read it on Amazon, please report it


    ¡°Come on, recruit!¡± The lioness shouted, standing behind a young-looking pangolin as the others looked on, various species including canines, felines, even an ox, all with orange markings of fire. ¡°Think of what you despise most! Bring on your hatred, reach into the depths of your anger and rip out its hottest thread!¡±


    The young pangolin put forward an arm as the markings on his arm began glowing, producing but a small, insignificant flame.


    ¡°Try HARDER!¡± She stepped closer towards him, practically screaming into his ear. ¡°Channel your fury into a fiery fist of destruction!¡± She clenched her right fist, igniting it. ¡°Our enemies will light their cigarettes with that, show me fire that will BURN them!¡±


    Winding back his arm then bringing it forward, the pangolin shot a similarly small burst of fire out of his hand, although slightly bigger. Regardless, it startled Genesis all the same.


    ¡°AGAIN!¡± Sheila ordered, the pangolin did the same with his other arm, bringing forth more fire.


    ¡°Keep going! Put your anger, your passion, your SOUL into it, recruit!¡± Sheila yelled, the pangolin kept punching the air with his fists, the fire growing in size more and more with each strike. Despite Sheila¡¯s presence likely helping empower his fire, it still wasn¡¯t too threatening, but it was a start. The other Blazing Ones looked on in awe. Genesis really wished that it was just over. ¡°Sorry¡­¡±


    ¡°Look at that.¡± Sheila said in a much calmer voice as she turned to look at Solomon, who she had just noticed. ¡°And you said you had stage fright!¡± She patted the pangolin on the shoulder and approached Solomon.


    ¡°...hey Sheila.¡± The cat finally said, somewhat concerned and impressed at the same time.


    ¡°What¡¯s up?¡± The lioness crossed her arms and slightly tilted her head. ¡°Shaquia sent you? I don¡¯t suppose you came here just to chat, given how much this Genesis friend of yours hates fire.¡±


    Genesis felt rather patronised at her remark.


    ¡°Actually, it¡¯s Sal that wants to talk to you.¡± Solomon informed her.


    Sheila let out an exaggerated sigh of exasperation, slightly bending her knees and allowing her arms to droop down. She then looked at her radio at the far end of the room, Solomon was sure she had left it there on purpose.


    ¡°I¡¯ll be right back.¡± She said to the Blazing Ones in the room, then cleared her throat. ¡°If the very AIR in here isn¡¯t ON FIRE by the time I¡¯m back, all of you will have to do a hundred more push-ups AND sit-ups!¡± She yelled, and was met with the nodding from most of them, now lined up. ¡°DO I MAKE MYSELF CLEAR?¡± She added, resulting in vigorous nodding and saluting.


    Sheila smiled, thoroughly satisfied. She then went to the doorway and made one more gesture, pointing from her two eyes to the recruits as if to say ¡°I¡¯m watching you!¡±


    She then left with one concerned Solomon and an incredibly uncomfortable Genesis.


    ¡°You have to be a little rough with ¡®em.¡± Sheila stated. ¡°Or they won¡¯t listen. More like the magic inside them, but they have to bring it out!¡±


    ¡°Didn¡¯t know you were training soldiers now.¡± Solomon remarked, sharing concerns with her companion.


    ¡°We¡¯re not making soldiers!¡± Sheila claimed. ¡°We¡¯re making capable Mystic Ones, able to defend themselves if they need to!¡±


    ¡°What was it you said? ¡°Show me fire that will burn them?¡± Was that not it?¡± Solomon raised an eyebrow.


    ¡°If the Lighborn were to show up at our doorstep, we''d need such forces!¡± The lioness explained.


    ¡°Yeah¡­¡± Said the cat, only to hear her name uttered through the radio. ¡°Yes?¡±


    ¡°Looks like this¡¯ll take longer than we thought it would.¡± Said the voice of Shaquia increasingly done with people by the sounds of it. ¡°Whoever packed for our delivery guy put in the wrong thing.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll leave you to it.¡± Sheila said as she stepped inside one of the elevators. Genesis was elated to finally have her gone.


    ¡°There should be a container filled with sulphuric acid here, instead we got¡­¡± She paused, then continued in a dumbfounded tone. ¡°How do you mess up this badly?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll just go read.¡± Solomon responded, slightly annoyed along with Genesis.


    ¡°Sorry.¡± The lynx added.


    Solomon could hardly believe the sheer incompetence that was displayed that day. It¡¯s one thing for Benedict to forget, it¡¯s an honest mistake, but whatever happened with the acid¡­


    She decided to just calm her nerves, and her curiosity, with some reading. She went up to one of the unmarked doors on the ground floor guarded by two bulky, heavily armoured rhinos.


    ¡°ID.¡± Said one of them.


    Solomon took off her gloves to show her markings.


    ¡°You still don¡¯t have an ID?¡± The other asked, his face hidden by a mask, akin to riot gear.


    ¡°I¡¯m still waiting for one.¡± The cat replied indignantly.


    The two guards looked at each other, already familiar with Solomon, and let her in with a shrug.


    Behind the door was a short hallway with a large metal door at the end. Next to it was a keypad with a plate above it, the latter having incomprehensible symbols written on it.


    Solomon powered up her magic and the symbols became clear to her in plain English, the text reading ¡°unravel¡±. She thought back to the day when they had Genesis write a few hundred different passwords down on these plates, which are changed after each reading session.


    She typed in the password on the keypad and the 10-centimetre thick metal door swung open after a couple seconds of processing. She stepped in and was inside a sparsely decorated room, having nothing but a cosy chair, a desk, a lamp and, inside a thick glass container, The Ledger. She took it out of its place of rest, lit up her markings, and sat down to read where she had left off: Bright Ones and Dark Ones.


    She learned quite a bit during that reading session, one particular thing she found interesting was the contrast between the two when it comes to sleep. Dark Ones need to sleep less, but are considered weaker during the day. Less powerful Bright Ones, however, often need more sleep and more sunlight to gather energy.


    She turned a page and the first thing that caught her eye was an illustration: a black square with a white, pouncing outline inside it. The section¡¯s title read ¡°True Darkness¡±.


    Possibly learning more about the nature of Thalia¡¯s magic certainly made Solomon interested. She felt that Genesis was somewhat bored with the section, although still happy about something.


    ¡°Violence begets violence, just as darkness begets darkness. Shadows and the lack of light empower all Dark Ones, but what if there was one that could create the perfect condition for them?¡±


    Solomon felt her tail sway from side to side, the metaphorical gears turning in her head.


    ¡°While dark magic alone doesn¡¯t typically help the Mystic One that¡¯s in possession of it, True Darkness is able to draw out its real power. By itself, all this shadowy magic does is remove the light from already dimly lit areas, making them so dark that even nocturnal species have trouble seeing through it.¡±


    Solomon started putting the pieces together in her mind, or at least she felt like she was slowly coming to a revelation.


    ¡°This darkness allows Dark Ones in its area of effect to break their physical and magical limits, empowering both body and soul. True Darkness itself is able to move at an astonishing speed as long as a powerful enough non-magical light source isn¡¯t brought inside it. Even a simple torch is enough to dispel the darkness, but the same can¡¯t be said for the Dark Ones inside it.¡±


    ¡°Okay.¡± The feline said out loud, catching Genesis¡¯ attention. ¡°No wonder Lumi wanted to find her.¡± Genesis then went back to whatever he was thinking about before, judging by how he felt.


    ¡°Magical light can never exist within this darkness, making Bright Ones ineffective against it. It offers little protection against other types of magic or regular weapons, other than agility.¡±


    Solomon thought back to that fateful night. Just one bolt¡­ That¡¯s all it took to almost kill Thalia.


    ¡°Compatibility: like every True magic type, the body will refuse to take in any other type and removal of the magic proves to be exceedingly difficult.¡± A phrase Solomon has read a few times before on other True magic sections.


    ¡°Category: harmless - mildly dangerous.¡± Words that the cat questioned greatly.


    ¡°What?¡± She said incredulously. ¡°Genesis, that can¡¯t be right. Did you write this part?¡± She took out her pen and notebook, allowing the ancient scholar to explain himself.


    ¡°It is correct.¡± Genesis wrote. Solomon didn¡¯t agree with his idea of ¡°mildly dangerous¡±.


    ¡°How? I¡¯ve seen what Thalia can do.¡± She frowned, her companion felt unimpressed.


    ¡°Catch True Darkness in the daytime and there is nothing they can do.¡± He replied. Solomon opened her mouth to speak, but nothing came out. ¡°Every other True magic works regardless of the environment to an extent. True Darkness effectively does nothing in sunlight.¡±


    ¡°Alright.¡± Solomon regained control over her hands, feeling rather foolish for not thinking about that. ¡°I get your point.¡± She then went back to reading.


    ¡°Despite this, True Darkness is not to be underestimated. Under the right conditions, they can still pose a threat, especially when accompanied by other Dark Ones.¡±


    Solomon rolled her eyes with a sigh as she sensed mischief from Genesis.


    ¡°You knew that was coming up, didn¡¯t you?¡± She said as Genesis grew increasingly entertained.


    ¡°Reading about what I wrote jogged my memory. After all, you cannot see inside my head.¡±


    ¡°That is mutual, dear Genesis.¡± Solomon chuckled with a grin as she once again turned her attention to The Ledger.


    ¡°Come to think of it¡­¡± She muttered. ¡°How does this even count as a ledger?¡±


    Upon feeling his slight displeasure, she allowed Genesis to take over her hands again.


    ¡°Pedant.¡± Was all he wrote.


    She promptly put away the pen and notebook and continued reading the next section, which was about the combinations for Dark Ones, skipping some more mundane paragraphs about history. While it would have her interested normally, it wasn¡¯t something that concerned her in present times.


    Blazing Ones, she had heard about, so she skimmed through that one, same with Frost Ones. Lightning Ones¡­ Now that made her curious, mostly because of how that happened to be her girlfriend¡¯s power.


    ¡°Darkness takes away the deadly force of lightning, but keeps its ability to painfully stiffen muscles. Instead of blue, the colour of the arcs is black when mixed with darkness.¡±


    Solomon found dark combinations rather strange. Even if Lumi told her that darkness ¡°hates¡± company, she didn¡¯t understand¡­ How, really.


    ¡°It is also unable to power machines that need it to work.¡±


    That sentence resulted in a sense of surprise from Genesis, he practically begged to tell something. Solomon had an idea on what it might be.


    ¡°Alright, alright¡­¡± She took out her notebook again.


    ¡°I did not write that!¡± Solomon understood his concern. ¡°This must have been added much later. There were no such machines in my time.¡±


    ¡°You think it was someone from The System?¡± She asked, wondering who might find that information so important as to add it to the ancient book.


    ¡°There is a chance. I say we look into it.¡±


    Solomon then heard chatter from her radio. She reached for it and heard the voice of Shaquia.


    ¡°Is this thing working now?¡± She asked in a tired tone.


    ¡°Yes.¡± Solomon replied jovially.


    ¡°Ah, FINALLY.¡± Said the lynx, relieved. ¡°Come and perform the tests whenever you¡¯re ready.¡±


    ¡°Be there in a minute.¡± The cat put down her radio and closed The Ledger before putting it back into the glass container, keeping in mind potential changes to the book that The System might have made. Something she¡¯ll have to ask about for sure.


    When she left the room leading to the book, she heard one of the guards utter ¡°Requesting a new plate.¡± She wasn¡¯t sure how effective these measures would be when it came to actually protecting the book and its secrets, but she figured it was better than just having it in the warehouse.


    After just a few short minutes, she was back at the door with the spiral symbol on it. She let out a short sigh before entering and was greeted by Benedict, Shaquia, and a person in a lab coat, all wearing gas masks. The last of which, Solomon couldn¡¯t tell what species he was, but could see white fur.


    ¡°Ready when you are.¡± Said the lynx, handing her a mask as well.


    ¡°Aren¡¯t I supposed to be immune?¡± Solomon questioned, surprised by the sight.


    ¡°We know you¡¯re immune to your own acid, but we don¡¯t know about others.¡± Shaquia argued. ¡°I¡¯d rather you didn¡¯t inhale the fumes, just in case.¡± She urged her to take the mask.


    Solomon found a gas mask to be a little overkill, after all, she had worked with such chemicals before her power manifested. All she needed then was a medical mask and protective glasses. Genesis, on the other hand, felt confident. About what, Solomon really wanted to know.


    ¡°Alright.¡± The cat shrugged and put on the gas mask, admitting that safety should be a priority.


    ¡°Okay, you may begin.¡± Benedict pointed to the table in the middle of the room with ten beakers filled with different acids.


    She went to the table and noticed that the first two acids had very similar chemical formulae: HNO2 and HNO3. ¡°Nitrous and nitric acid.¡±


    She remembered that the former was considered weak, while the latter, strong. She figured that that¡¯s why they wanted her to start with HNO2. She didn¡¯t ask for its concentration. She removed her infused right glove and dipped the very tip of it into it, then its fingers. Nothing happened, it rolled off of it the same way her magical acid rolled off of her. With newfound confidence, she then repeated it with her own finger, to the same effect.


    ¡°Nitrous acid, nothing.¡± She said, feeling almost disappointed that it didn¡¯t empower her, but the fact that it didn¡¯t damage her was enough for a start. Just to be safe, she rinsed off her glove and hand before continuing.


    Nitric acid¡­ She heard that it can cause severe burns and is aggressively corrosive to metals. It reminded her of her own acid, to an extent.


    ¡°What¡¯s the concentration?¡± She inquired.


    ¡°68%.¡± Lab coat replied.


    She dipped in her glove, which remained unaffected, followed by her hand. Similarly to her previous attempt, she was unharmed and unempowered.


    ¡°Nitric acid, nothing.¡± She rinsed off the acid again and moved on.


    Solomon walked up to the next one and read the label: HCl. ¡°Hydrochloric acid¡­! That¡¯s a bit of a jump.¡±


    ¡°Concentration?¡± She asked.


    ¡°37%.¡± Lab coat replied.


    Solomon had worked with that particular acid, she remembered that itchy, irritating pain she got one time she got it on her hands. It can cause some nasty chemical burns, but it was still nothing compared to the one she could produce.


    She nodded and dipped the fingertips of her glove into the substance, which was met with no reaction. The acid rolled off of the glove once again, despite being stronger. She then looked at her right hand, more specifically her clockwise-spiralling marking.


    ¡°Do you think this is safe?¡± She asked, hoping that the one who made the magic would know better. She felt like it wasn''t entirely safe, just willingly putting her hand in such an acid to test immunity¡­ Her past experiences didn¡¯t help either, they all told her not to do it.


    Genesis, however, gave her a thumbs up, his confidence reassuring her slightly. She prayed that he was correct, but took some solace in the fact that there at least was a sink nearby. ¡°Here goes nothing.¡±


    She slowly lowered her hand into the beaker, something she was told never to do extensively in her learning years. She left it in the liquid for a good few seconds¡­ And nothing. She felt absolutely nothing, not pain or even mild discomfort, nor feeling empowered. Genesis¡¯ confidence stayed, she presumed because he was right and he knew he would be.


    ¡°Hydrochloric acid, nothing.¡± She uttered, lab coat took notes. ¡°Moving on.¡± She thoroughly rinsed off her glove and hand then dried both.


    As she picked up the next beaker to inspect the label, it felt warm to the touch, which she didn¡¯t like at all. It read: H2SO4. ¡°Sulphuric acid.¡±


    ¡°Concentration?¡± She asked, feeling slightly uneasy.


    ¡°97%.¡± Lab coat replied.


    She put down the beaker, and tried to relax. She knew that it could cause severe burns as well, but since the other ones didn¡¯t harm her in any way so far¡­ She decided to just get on with it.


    First, the glove. No effect, which eased her mind greatly. She then put the very tip of her index finger in it and immediately felt it. A sense of power creeping up her finger and to her hand combined with elation from Genesis together made her take a step back.


    ¡°Something¡¯s different with this one!¡± She exclaimed, much to the excitement of the others present.


    Lab coat stepped closer to take a look, but she hardly even noticed him. She was much too preoccupied with Genesis, he wanted more, and by extension, so did she.


    She went back to the beaker and put her entire hand inside. She was met with a sense of relief and peace so intense, nothing had ever come close to it in her life. At the same time, she felt powerful, she felt like she could take on the whole world together with Genesis! That was something she shared with him, both overjoyed and relaxed to the extent that they did, she never thought that such a dangerous substance would bring her such apparent strength. It was unlike anything, unlike even her brief moment in Luxor¡¯s light!


    Then, as quick as it came, the sensation left.


    ¡°This¡­¡± She let out a sigh of relief as she removed her hand from the beaker and fell to her knees. ¡°This is the one.¡±


    Lab coat went to inspect the acid in question as Benedict and Shaquia went to help her stand up, extra-careful with her hand.


    ¡°Everything alright?¡± The lynx asked, looking worried for her behind the glass of the mask.


    ¡°The most alright we¡¯ll ever be.¡± She replied and shook her head. ¡°Woah¡­ That was¡­ Something.¡± She looked down at her hand and saw that her marking was glowing intensely, rays of green light shining. It reminded her of Lumi¡¯s dark markings in Thalia¡¯s darkness.


    She and Genesis both felt immensely satisfied with the experiment. She also felt that he really wanted to tell her and those present something. After rinsing off her hand and glove, she allowed him to speak his mind.


    ¡°My power is returning.¡± He wrote with a jubilance that only Solomon could feel, she read his words out loud. ¡°We will have to do this again. This is as much as we could get from it now, I feel it.¡±


    ¡°Should we be concerned?¡± Benedict asked, clearly taken aback by what happened.


    ¡°You? No.¡± Solomon read the words he wrote down. ¡°Acquire as much of this as you can. If we keep this up, we may be back in our prime.¡± She chuckled. ¡°Really now, Genesis?¡±


    ¡°Benedict, get your guys ready to handle some dangerous substances.¡± Shaquia ordered, then looked at the rest of the acids. ¡°Should we test the remaining ones?¡±


    ¡°Futile.¡± Is all Genesis wrote, serene. Solomon liked to picture his skeletal appearance sometimes, at that moment, him laying on a bed covered with the softest of pillows.


    ¡°Noted.¡± Said Shaquia, glancing at lab coat. ¡°You go see if there¡¯s anything changed about the ones we tested on.¡±


    Lab coat saluted with a ¡°Roger.¡±


    Solomon couldn¡¯t help but wonder, however¡­ Why? What caused all of this, why this acid in particular?


    She shook her head again, snapping herself out of the lingering sensation while leaving Genesis in his bliss.


    ¡°Send me an update if you find out anything about it.¡± She requested as she, Benedict, and Shaquia left the room.


    ¡°Will do.¡± Said the lynx, taking off her mask, followed by the other two. Solomon could finally see her expression properly, and it was rather awestruck.


    ¡°I¡¯ll go see how much we can order.¡± Said Benedict, taking one step towards the lifts.


    ¡°Good, do that.¡± Shaquia responded, looking a little less upset with the raccoon.


    Benedict nodded and left for the lifts.


    ¡°Looks like we¡¯re- oh!¡± Shaquia exclaimed right as he left and turned to face Solomon. ¡°I almost forgot, I¡¯ve yet to give you your new schedule.¡±


    In all honesty, Solomon wasn¡¯t too excited about that. Juggling time between her usual work, The System, and her free time proved to be particularly stressful. Her mind was set on many different things, but she figured the same was true for the lynx.


    ¡°The upcoming occasion is rather extraordinary, I know it¡¯s not entirely what we agreed upon, but I tried to be fair.¡± She said as she took a large piece of folded paper out of her pocket and handed it to Solomon. ¡°You have no idea how long it took to schedule all of this, I swear if she doesn¡¯t show up¡­¡±


    One look was enough to tell that they were packed with various important-looking meetings and events related to damage control and possibly spreading out from Europe. Her part next week, however¡­ It couldn''t be done.


    ¡°What?¡± Solomon said indignantly. ¡°You can¡¯t be serious!¡±


    ¡°I know¡­¡± Shaquia said awkwardly. ¡°Three days in a row is a lot, but that¡¯s the only time Catherine would deign to come here and she requested your presence specifically.¡±


    ¡°I have something very important there, remember?¡± Solomon frowned.


    The lynx then smacked her forehead, as if suddenly recalling something crucial.


    ¡°Damn¡­¡± She said, shaking her head. ¡°Listen, we¡¯ll leave you alone for the following two weeks as compensation, can you make it?¡±


    ¡°Are you sure you can¡¯t, maybe, reconsider?¡± Solomon pleaded.


    ¡°I know, it¡¯s not the best time for it, but you have to understand.¡± Shaquia said, visibly stressed. ¡°Both Catherine and scheduling with her are a pain. This is the best we can do if we don¡¯t want to waste even more time making sure nothing clashes.¡±


    Solomon felt slightly betrayed, something that was powerful enough to get Genesis out of his metaphorical bed of pillows. She sensed that he was confused.


    ¡°I mean¡­ If you¡¯re certain?¡± She said, willing to give in, despite everything. She was upset, more than a little, but she knew that she would need to make sacrifices eventually. In addition, two weeks away from The System¡­ She could use that. She couldn¡¯t just have Shaquia kick over such a difficult schedule solely because of her.


    The thing that worried her most was what Lisa would think of it.

 Chapter 30 - Chance Encounter

    ¡°It¡¯s getting harder to believe that people need a licence to drive.¡± Lisa said to herself, parking in front of the Bird¡¯s Eye Inc. building. She had to give Adelar some credit, he had spared no expense renovating, the unsightly cracks and fallen off plaster on the walls were gone, and it got a proper paint job as well. She thought it made it look less like a slightly run-down small corporate building and more like a perfectly ordinary small corporate building.


    Annoyed at people in general, Lisa got out of her car and with the sound of her cane¡¯s tap tap tap following her every other step, walked up to the front door.


    On the inside, the burn marks from the floor and wall were finally gone, not just hidden by a carpet and whatever furniture happened to be put there. It too got a new coat of paint. Still as grey as ever, but she didn¡¯t mind it the least.


    ¡°You¡¯re late.¡± Adelar remarked with his hands put together, sitting in his chair as Lisa stepped into the meeting room.


    ¡°Can¡¯t exactly control traffic, now can I?¡± She retorted with a frown and went to open the window. That was one of her favourite changes to the building, the window no longer creaked.


    Right as she sat down at the round table, the phone started ringing.


    ¡°Not a second too late if ya ask me.¡± The wolf said with a smirk.


    Without a response, Adelar picked up the phone.


    ¡°Bird¡¯s Eye Inc. How can I help you?¡± He said into the phone. There was a response, but Lisa couldn¡¯t make it out.


    ¡°Certainly. We have just the person for that.¡± He tapped the table with his talons. ¡°Give me an address and I¡¯ll send her over ASAP.¡±


    Lisa was immediately interested.


    ¡°Got it, thank you. She¡¯s on her way as we speak! Bye.¡± Adelar hung up. ¡°Client is a police cadet requesting backup, he asked specifically for a canine if possible.¡±


    ¡°Well he¡¯s in luck.¡± Lisa stood up as Adelar wrote down the address he was given and handed it over to her. ¡°Harris?¡± She read the name of the settlement. ¡°Never even heard of the place.¡±


    ¡°A nearby village.¡± The eagle explained. ¡°About 400 people live there, it should be a quick and easy job.¡±


    ¡°Right.¡± Said Lisa, pocketing the paper. ¡°We¡¯ll see about that.¡±


    ¡°Come back when you¡¯re finished unless I tell you otherwise.¡± Adelar added.


    ¡°You don¡¯t have to say that every time, you know.¡± Lisa frowned, stepping outside the main room.


    ¡°Repetition is how you master a craft!¡± Adelar said a little louder as Lisa waved him goodbye. ¡°Be careful out there!¡±


    ¡°Harris, huh¡­ At least it sounds more serious than what we used to do.¡±


    Lisa got in her car and put the address into the GPS, expecting a real case. ¡°Please don¡¯t be about a wild cat stuck in a tree or somethin¡¯.¡±


    After a 15-minute drive from the edge of Lanolow, Lisa pulled up to the house in question where a few people were gathered around a single police officer. A serval of small build, couldn¡¯t have been older than 25. He looked visibly anxious.


    She opened the car door and her ears were immediately drawn to the house, or rather, the noise that was coming from inside. A woman was inside, hysterical, screaming at the top of her lungs.


    ¡°What the hell are you waitin¡¯ for, cadet?¡± She berated the serval as she jogged up to him.


    ¡°People say she¡¯s alone in there!¡± He snapped his head around to look at her, somewhat relieved to have some backup. ¡°She was at this for half an hour before I arrived, so I¡¯m told!¡±


    All of a sudden, Lisa didn¡¯t like the situation at all. No wonder the cadet didn¡¯t want to go in alone, he looked all too inexperienced to handle a situation like this.


    ¡°Please help her!¡± One of the people around, who happened to be a rat, begged. ¡°She just¡­ Had a horrible week.¡±


    ¡°Well then let¡¯s get going, before she hurts herself.¡± She said to the serval and they ran up to the front door of the house. The building itself looked new, likely belonging to a more wealthy resident of the village, relatively speaking.


    ¡°Sorry¡­ I-it¡¯s my first real case!¡±  Said the serval, confirming Lisa¡¯s suspicions.


    ¡°No matter.¡± She reassured him as she put her hand on the door handle. ¡°I¡¯m here to help.¡± Those two sentences alone caused him to light up with confidence. ¡°Still not what investigators are supposed to do, but whatever.¡±


    They entered the house, the screaming inside was near-deafening, despite coming from a different area of the house. There was no mistaking which room she was in.


    A quick look around the living room, which was joined with the kitchen, was enough to tell that she had been in a fight, most likely with herself. The place was a complete mess: the furniture, all torn up, the frames of paintings, splintered, there were holes on the walls. Even many of the kitchen tiles were broken to pieces. All of that, along with the banshee-like shrieking of a deeply distraught woman.


    ¡°A bad week, huh?¡±  Lisa felt a sense of deja-vu.


    The cadet¡¯s confidence faded completely as he took in the scene. Lisa pitied him, to have this be the very first real case to work on¡­ It would get to anyone.


    ¡°There¡¯s a good chance we¡¯ll need to restrain her.¡± She said to him, quietly enough that the woman couldn¡¯t possibly hear it over her own screams.


    ¡°O-o-okay¡­¡± He nodded, slightly shaking. ¡°Poor lad.¡±


    ¡°I can handle that if you-¡± Lisa was about to suggest, but the serval shook his head.


    ¡°I signed up for this to help people.¡± He gulped, trying his best to look brave. ¡°Let¡¯s go then¡­!¡±


    Lisa nodded, taking one more good look at the destruction that the woman had caused. She didn¡¯t even spare the potted plants.


    They walked up to the room where the screaming woman was, only to find out that the door was locked.


    ¡°Miss!¡± The serval shouted after taking a deep breath, knocking on the door. ¡°Open the door, miss, we¡¯re here to help!¡±


    They were met with no response from the woman.


    ¡°Please, miss!¡± He went on, voice slightly breaking as he made an attempt at sounding more assertive. ¡°If you don¡¯t open the door, we¡¯ll be forced to come in!¡±


    Nothing. Nothing, other than the sound of thunderous shrieking, no sign of acknowledgement in the slightest.


    ¡°Be careful, we don¡¯t know what she might do.¡± Lisa advised as she took a stance before the door. She brought her right leg forward and kicked the door near the lock. She stumbled back after, but she felt that it would give in after another.


    ¡°We could just-¡± The cadet said as Lisa forcefully kicked the door again, which swung open in an instant.


    Inside was a bathroom, more tiles smashed, the sink and the bathtub taps both running in a failed attempt at flooding the room, only resulting in the floor being covered with a thin layer of water. In the corner was the woman in question, another rat,  facing a wall, cradling something in her hands as she screamed into the sky before bringing her face down and banging her bloody forehead on the wall, tinting the water around her.


    ¡°Miss!¡± The cadet heaved, stepping into the room, putting on a brave face. ¡°Let us help you!¡±


    ¡°Careful!¡± Said Lisa, staying outside the bathroom, ready to tear the woman off of the cadet if need be.


    The woman suddenly turned around, blood and tears running down her face as she looked straight at the cadet, downright manic. She ceased her screaming as Lisa heard the sound of an audible snap akin to that of pliers.


    ¡°P-please calm down, miss, we¡¯ll help you!¡± The serval tried his best to remain calm, which proved useless as the rat woman revealed what she had been cradling: the end of a frayed wire connected to an electrical socket.


    ¡°Cadet!¡± Lisa shouted and ran in as the woman stood up, and without a word, dropped the wire. She screamed no more as her muscles tensed up and convulsed, resulting in her falling face first into the shallow water, twitching.


    Lisa had no idea what could possibly cause someone to end up like that. That got to her more than the woman¡¯s death itself, for as morbid as it may sound, she was almost used to the sight of an electrocution. There, standing in the middle of the room in the electrified water, Lisa was looking at the horrible scene along with the young serval in her arms, holding him far enough above the deadly electricity. He panted, his arms firmly held around the wolf, watching a sight that will no doubt be burned into his mind.


    ¡°Don¡¯t look.¡± Lisa said as she turned around and brought the serval out of the bathroom, to safety. Once on the ground, he leaned forward and gagged through laboured breaths. The event evidently shook him to his core. It reminded Lisa of Solomon to an extent, she never could get over the idea of death or murder. Lisa, on the other hand¡­ One could say that she¡¯d grown desensitised to it ever since the Lion¡¯s Den incident. If it¡¯s a choice between letting her or an attacker live, she would always choose herself.


    Lisa quickly went outside and looked for an electrical box, which sure enough, was close to the entrance. She opened it and promptly turned all the switches off, cutting power to the house. Too little too late. Over 200 volts, more than enough to kill someone. She felt like she could have done more to help, to turn off the power beforehand just in case, but how could she have known that it would end up like this?


    ¡°Is she okay?¡± The other rat questioned with hope, which all disappeared due to Lisa¡¯s grim expression.


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    ¡°I¡¯m sorry.¡± She said, stepping back inside to somehow deal with the scene. The cadet was on his hands and knees in no better condition. ¡°Please stay out.¡± She ordered and closed the door before the clearly bereaved people could say anything.


    ¡°Cadet?¡± She said, getting down on one knee next to the serval. Shaking his head, he stood up on his knees and eyed Lisa.


    ¡°...how?¡± He finally said weakly, looking her up and down.


    ¡°What?¡± She raised an eyebrow before coming to a realisation. ¡°This¡¯ll be a pain in the arse to explain.¡±


    ¡°H-how are you alive?¡± He went on, seemingly questioning his own reality. ¡°Think fast¡­¡±


    ¡°Rubber shoes, mate.¡± Lisa smiled, helping the cadet stand up. It only seemed to make him more confused when he looked down at her visibly not rubber shoes.


    ¡°They don¡¯t look like rubber¡­¡± He remarked, causing the wolf to slightly panic internally.


    ¡°That¡¯s the idea.¡± She rebutted, more on instinct than anything. ¡°You have to be prepared for anything, yeah?¡±


    ¡°Oooh!¡± The serval¡¯s eyes lit up in adoration. ¡°You think so far ahead?¡± The way he looked up to her reminded Lisa of how a child would look up to their hero.


    ¡°Just some precautions.¡± She lied. ¡°Comes with this line of work, ya know. Nerves of steel, shoes of rubber, so they say.¡± She herself hardly believed how she could come up with something so stupid on the spot. She felt bad about lying to him, but sometimes, a beautiful lie is better than the harsh truth.


    ¡°Amazing!¡± He said, albeit still distressed about the events. ¡°I¡¯ll have to get a pair of those.¡± He turned and looked at the bathroom door, it was clear that he wasn¡¯t looking forward to inspecting the body. ¡°Maybe¡­ Maybe there¡¯s a chance she¡¯s still alive?¡±


    Lisa could smell the stench of burned flesh and fur even from the living room, there was no chance of that. Worse than that, she smelled¡­ Smoke.


    ¡°I¡¯ll go check.¡± Lisa suggested, already on her way there. ¡°You take a look around and try to figure out why she might have done that, yeah?¡±


    The serval nodded. That was all Lisa needed.


    When she peeked inside the bathroom, she saw that the otherwise dry back of the rat had somehow caught on fire due to the shock.


    ¡°Fuckin¡¯ hell!¡± Lisa exclaimed as she went to put it out by putting a wet towel on it. Smoke still leaked from underneath for a few moments. After making sure the small fire was out, she turned off the running taps and went to inspect the body. No pulse. No breathing. She wasn¡¯t sure how effective her electricity would be as an attempt at restarting the woman¡¯s heart, especially a victim of electrocution, but she could still give it a try.


    She looked back at the door to check and was extremely glad that she did because she saw the cadet reluctantly looking into the room.


    ¡°She¡¯s gone.¡± She said solemnly.


    The serval then nodded with a sniffle and having heard enough, disappeared from in front of the door. Lisa heard him talk on the phone, most likely to call an ambulance or perhaps more backup. ¡°There goes that idea.¡± Realistically, there was very little chance of saving her, defibrillators aren¡¯t normally used in these situations. Not to mention, it would be terribly hard to explain how she just seemingly came back to life when the cadet wasn¡¯t looking. That would only raise his suspicions and that was the last thing she needed. Opting to let the woman finally rest, she got up and went to check on her impromptu partner in the case.


    ¡°I noticed something about the tiles.¡± The cadet said as he looked around the kitchen area. ¡°You see how the broken tiles all have hearts on them?¡±


    Lisa took a quick glance and surmised that he was right, all the tiles that had once been on the wall or floor and had hearts on them were broken to pieces. Or at least an attempt was made to break them.


    ¡°Hold on.¡± Lisa said and went back to check the bathroom, the serval followed. There, too, all the broken tiles had hearts on them.


    ¡°That¡¯s a start. Good lad!¡± She remarked with a warm smile, which seemed to encourage the cadet. ¡°Let¡¯s check the rest of the house.¡±


    With one more resolute nod from him, they went to a closed door directly opposite to the bathroom. The door swung open and revealed a bedroom for two. It had a great window at the eastern side of the room, brightly painted walls, ornate wooden furniture that Lisa was almost envious of, a TV and a computer connected to a printer.


    ¡°Blimey¡­¡± Said the cadet. ¡°That¡¯s a nice room.¡±


    Lisa walked up to the computer to maybe find some info, and saw sheets of paper that had been printed. As she turned them over and inspected them, she began to understand.


    Divorce papers. Every single one, all reading the details: Marygold Rosalind, once married to Roland H. Norman. The wolf had seen bad divorces before, but this one topped all of them.


    ¡°What do you make of this?¡± She asked and gave one sheet to the cadet.


    ¡°I¡¯ve heard his name before!¡± The serval exclaimed, having a ¡°eureka¡± moment. ¡°I remember a Roland H. Norman mentioned just the other day!¡±


    As he went on, Lisa noticed that the printer was still on, requesting that more paper be put into it. She saw the progress it had made before running out: 37/99 papers printed.


    She then noticed that her partner had stopped talking.


    ¡°Go on.¡± Said Lisa, looking for more clues on the computer in the meantime. There were hardly any files of interest on it, a car insurance document that had been downloaded twice, a CV, and presumably a wedding photo of Marygold and Roland. The former was unrecognisable, looking quite happy along with her husband.


    ¡°Two officers¡­¡± He continued, seeing that he is, in fact, not being ignored. ¡°Two were sent out to look into his disappearance. Might be related to this.¡±


    ¡°Sounds like a solid guess.¡± Lisa stated.


    ¡°Forget-me-nots!¡± He exclaimed, looking at the bed. ¡°Although¡­ Doesn¡¯t really count as evidence, huh?¡±


    Turning her head, Lisa saw upon the pristine white bed lay a bouquet of flowers. She herself wouldn¡¯t have been able to tell what they were if not for the cadet. Though she was certain Solomon could have told her that too if she were there.


    ¡°Better than nothing.¡± Lisa scratched at her chin. ¡°Anything else on that Roland H?¡±


    ¡°I¡­ I only heard about it.¡± The serval admitted, looking down at the floor before snapping back up. ¡°But I¡¯m sure my colleagues know more!¡±


    ¡°Come to think of it¡­¡± She said, causing him to raise an ear and an eyebrow. ¡°How come you requested a canine?¡±


    ¡°Oh!¡± He chuckled awkwardly. ¡°I just thought because you had¡­ Like¡­ A good nose, it could help?¡±


    Lisa had to agree. She could tell that he was a bright kid, but definitely needed experience.


    ¡°Well¡­¡± She sniffed the air. Nothing other than what she had already sniffed out, burned flesh and residual smoke. No hint of anything suspicious. ¡°Can¡¯t blame ya. But there¡¯s nothing more here than what we¡¯ve seen, far as my nose can tell. I¡¯d still like to have a look around though, just in case.¡±


    ¡°W-what¡¯s your name, by the way?¡± The cadet asked, seemingly out of the blue. ¡°I-I just thought that maybe¡­ We could work together more in the future? I-it¡¯s just that y-you seem like a professional, with your foresight, shoes, nose¡­ A-and I could really use some h-help¡­¡± He said with a shrug and an awkward smile. Lisa felt almost flattered.


    ¡°Lisa Luminescence.¡± She replied casually, tipping her hat.


    ¡°Okaaay!¡± He chuckled, pointing finger guns at her. ¡°You can tell me your actual name then¡­!¡±


    Lisa¡¯s smile faded as she took out her driving licence and had the cadet take a look at it. The sheer embarrassment on him was so palpable, she could almost feel it herself. With a grin and a wink, she put it away.


    ¡°I-I-I¡¯m so sorry! I was told that the seniors like to pull pranks-¡± He began.


    ¡°S¡¯alright.¡± Lisa shrugged it off. ¡°What¡¯s your name?¡±


    ¡°Milo.¡± Said the serval, calming down as best as he could. ¡°Milo Goddard.¡±


    Now, that caught Lisa¡¯s attention.


    ¡°Goddard?¡± She inquired, secretly excited at the possibility.


    ¡°Y-yes.¡± He replied with a little nod.


    There was a chance for something truly incredible, a shot in the dark, but she had to be sure.


    ¡°You wouldn¡¯t happen to be the son of Henry Goddard?¡± She asked, eager to find out if this was who she thought it was.


    ¡°Uhm¡­ I am.¡± Said Milo.


    ¡°Son of William Goddard?¡± She went on, visibly giddy with excitement.


    ¡°...yeah.¡± He said after a pause.


    ¡°No way!¡± Lisa exclaimed, overjoyed with the discovery, her wild guess turning out to be true. ¡°You¡¯re the legendary detective¡¯s grandson!¡±


    ¡°I guess my family still precedes me.¡± Milo shrugged with a slight smile. ¡°This job made sense for me, given our history.¡± Lisa never would have figured the scrawny, skinny cadet to be related to such a person in anything other than species. To say that she was thrilled would be an understatement, she was practically shaking.


    ¡°Listen, mate.¡± Lisa patted him on the shoulder. ¡°You¡¯ve already got the reputation, you just need the skills!¡± His eyes positively shone at her words. ¡°You¡¯ve got potential, kid. Keep at it and you¡¯ll go far!¡±


    ¡°Thank you, thank you! I don¡¯t think I can¡­ Outdo what my family did though.¡± He admitted, more to himself than to Lisa. ¡°Grandpa did shut down the guys who ran Hilton.¡±


    ¡°Small world we live in.¡±


    ¡°Well¡­¡± She took out her phone to take a personal note, tail wagging. ¡°I¡¯ll let boss know that if you call, he should try to send me, yeah?¡±


    Milo gasped and nodded enthusiastically.


    ¡°It would be an honour!¡± His tail wagged vigorously, along with Lisa¡¯s.


    ¡°Bruv, I should be saying that!¡± She chuckled, briefly forgetting that they are in the middle of a crime scene. She cleared her throat and put on a serious face. ¡°Anyway, we should return to this.¡±


    ¡°I can take it from here with the others!¡± Milo argued. ¡°I already called for help.¡±


    ¡°Really now? More eyes see more. You sure?¡± Lisa remarked with a smirk, trusting in his abilities. If she told him how to do everything, he would never learn. Then again, she wouldn¡¯t say no to working with him.


    ¡°O-oh, I just mean I could make the report while you can go do more important business!¡± He explained, looking as if he was hiding behind his own tail. ¡°I¡­ Assume an investigator like you would have other places to be. Also, where¡¯d you get those rubber shoes?¡±


    ¡°Here we go again.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯d be correct!¡± She said and took a moment to come up with a good enough lie. ¡°Custom-made. ¡®Fraid they¡¯re out of business now.¡±


    ¡°Ah, what a shame!¡± He complained, swaying anxiously. ¡°The boys should be here soon enough. Thanks for everything! ¡­but I¡¯ll try to handle this.¡±


    ¡°We could still have a look-around ¡®til they arrive.¡± She suggested.


    ¡°I mean¡­ Yes, that would be good.¡± He then went to the doorway and beckoned Lisa. ¡°You¡¯ll make your grandad proud one day, kid.¡±


    Following Milo, and her nose, Lisa went through the rest of the house: a proper look at the kitchen, a pantry filled with ingredients and spices, a utility closet for a wood-fueled furnace, even a terribly dusty attic, but found nothing suspicious or anything that could be considered as evidence.


    ¡°Alright, I¡¯ll be on my way then.¡± Lisa dusted off her coat and closed the door to the attic. ¡°Good luck, cadet!¡± She winked at him.


    ¡°I¡¯ll make you proud, Miss Luminescence!¡± He responded with a salute.


    ¡°Just call me Lisa.¡± She went to the entrance with Milo, taking another sniff, which confirmed to her that there was nothing more she could find there, at least not that easily.


    ¡°Thanks Lisa!¡± Milo said with one more wave of goodbye as she left the building. She smiled back at him before looking at the increasingly larger crowd.


    ¡°Nothing to see here, people. Move along.¡± She announced gruffly as she walked past them and got into her car, way too many things on her mind.


    ¡°Alright, two people to report to.¡± She said to herself, looking through her list of contacts. ¡°Adelar¡¯s one, but first¡­¡± Looking at the time, she guessed that it¡¯d still be a short while before Solomon arrived at the HQ, so she called her right away. Not something she would normally do, but she couldn¡¯t help herself.


    ¡°Yes, dear?¡± Solomon¡¯s voice came through, still a bit sleepy.


    ¡°OH. MY. GOSH. ROXY!¡± Said the wolf, sounding more like an excited girl than an adult with magic and responsibilities. Whatever noise her girlfriend made as a reaction told her that she properly woke up. ¡°You¡¯ll NEVER guess who I met today!¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re right, I probably won¡¯t.¡± The feline teased in a sassy tone.


    ¡°Oh, you.¡± Lisa furrowed her brows, albeit with a smile. ¡°I was out on a job and wouldn¡¯t you know it, the guy who needed help was the grandson of William bloody Goddard!¡±


    ¡°Tr¨¨s bien!¡± Solomon replied with a chuckle. ¡°I know how much you adore that guy, what¡¯s his grandson like?¡±


    ¡°You couldn¡¯t tell it was him just by lookin¡¯.¡± She put the key in the ignition, noticing that someone in the crowd was eyeing her almost suspiciously. ¡°I¡¯ll tell ya aaaaall about it later, gotta go report to boss, I just HAD to talk about it!¡±


    ¡°Looking forward to it, love.¡± Solomon said, followed by a soft giggle. ¡°Bye now!¡±


    ¡°Byeee!¡± Lisa hung up and immediately went to text Adelar.


    ¡°Job¡¯s done. Going back to base.¡±


    The eagle replied with a thumbs up emoticon not long after.


    ¡°Well that was easy enough.¡± Lisa started the car and began driving back to Lanolow.

 Chapter 31 - Life Goes On

    ¡°That is a most tragic case indeed.¡± Adelar said to Lisa in the Bird¡¯s Eye meeting room after she recounted her experiences in Harris.


    ¡°And that ain¡¯t all!¡± The wolf exclaimed, sitting with her legs crossed in her chair. ¡°The guy who got sent out was William Goddard¡¯s grandson!¡± She said with great excitement in her voice, at which Adelar raised an eyebrow.


    ¡°Who?¡± He asked, causing Lisa¡¯s passionate demeanour to fade.


    ¡°Never mind.¡± She cleared her throat, feeling a little defeated. ¡°He¡¯s a good lad though. If I¡¯m available and a Milo Goddard calls, be sure to send me.¡± She requested.


    ¡°I¡¯ll try to keep that in mind.¡± Said Adelar. Lisa could guess that he questioned her excitement over who was just any other ordinary person in his eyes.


    ¡°So what¡¯s next?¡± Lisa inquired.


    ¡°Nothing so far.¡± He admitted. ¡°No new calls, I could just have you leave early if you need it, it can¡¯t have been easy to witness that.¡±


    ¡°Nah, I¡¯m fine.¡± She dismissed his concerns. ¡°You know, working on real cases makes me feel like I¡¯m actually doing something.¡± She remarked, fiddling with her cane.


    ¡°I¡¯m glad you all agree on that.¡± Deciding not to push it further, Adelar took out a paper he kept in his suit pocket at all times. Lisa knew all too well how proud that one made him, the best part being that it had nothing to do with magic.


    ¡°Father and Yaroslav did an excellent job at Millport.¡± He said after unfolding the paper, a copy of a report. ¡°One less group of ¡°entrepreneurs¡± that go around defrauding people.¡± He looked up from the paper and at Lisa. ¡°That really helped put us on the radar.¡±


    ¡°You magical leaders sure love your fronts.¡± Lisa teased, which was met with a deep frown from Adelar.


    ¡°Don¡¯t ever compare me to him.¡± He asserted, folding up the piece of paper and putting it back in his pocket.


    Lisa recoiled slightly at his tone. ¡°Alright, relax.¡± She held out her hands as emphasis. ¡°He¡¯s dead now. Proper six feet under, yeah?¡± She grinned, but it didn¡¯t seem to improve the eagle¡¯s mood at all. ¡°If you hated his guts so much, how come you want to partner up with ¡®em now?¡±


    ¡°Truth be told¡­¡± He began after a long pause. ¡°I¡¯m running out of things to teach you.¡± He said, regretful.


    ¡°You want us to train with the tossers who took Rox?¡± She scoffed, finding the idea downright insulting. ¡°Really?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t know everything.¡± Adelar admitted. ¡°You all found your techniques and they¡¯re vastly different from mine. There¡¯s only so much one Blazing One can teach you. As for them¡­ Who knows, maybe they could help sharpen my skills too. We could start a partnership, further both our agendas.¡± He said in what Lisa would call his ¡°business voice¡±. He wasn¡¯t one to joke usually anyway, but when speaking in that manner, she knew he was serious.


    Lisa had a hard time finding the words she wanted to use to express how she felt. On one hand, she still held resentment towards the organisation. Solomon had told her what exactly happened there and how the problem was with the leadership for the most part. She understood, but couldn¡¯t help but feel vindictive, still. The way they went about business, it sure could have been better. On the other hand, as much as she hated it, Adelar had a point. He was just one Mystic One, his knowledge and skills were limited compared to the many, many members of The System.


    ¡°I guess I¡¯ll think about it.¡± She finally said, the decision hard on her mind. It felt entirely unreasonable after everything that had happened, but she couldn¡¯t deny that she wanted someone to pay, still. An entire organisation¡­ To her, blaming everything on one person and getting rid of him felt like their way of finding a scapegoat. ¡°I still can¡¯t believe they would offer to help protect Father. Something just¡­ Doesn¡¯t sit right with me ¡®bout that.¡± Lisa brought up the matter.


    ¡°I get that. I really do.¡± Said Adelar. ¡°But if Solomon¡¯s reports are to be trusted, they¡¯re not all as bad as we thought.¡± His voice was understanding, compassionate. Lisa could tell that he knew how she felt. ¡°Even Father himself was positively surprised, so he said. He¡¯s been working on something special too! Think of how much you could learn as well, Lisa.¡±


    Lisa stayed silent. It felt selfish and callous, incredibly so, but she didn¡¯t like how her absurd dislike towards them wasn¡¯t justified. She could listen to her girlfriend list off all the things that were good about them, as well as the bad, but to actually work with them¡­ It felt like something she couldn¡¯t do. Not for Adelar, not for herself.


    But for Solomon¡­ Being there with her, actually, personally making sure that no one hurts her, she could possibly grow to tolerate, and maybe get to know them. That, she could do.


    ¡°I¡¯ll ask Rox about their electric abilities, how¡¯s that?¡± She suggested, putting on a grin.


    ¡°If that¡¯s what you wish.¡± Adelar shrugged.


    It wasn¡¯t. What she had wished for was already fulfilled. Actual investigative work, a house in a quiet neighbourhood, and a loving girlfriend. The magic was really just an extra in her mind.


    ¡°I¡¯ll be ¡®round town, call me if we get any more jobs.¡± She stood up and checked her pockets, more to give Adelar time to reply.


    ¡°Before you go!¡± Said the eagle. ¡°Whatever happened to that book? I¡¯ve been meaning to ask Solomon, but the thought always escaped me.¡±


    ¡°You wouldn¡¯t believe it!¡± Lisa exclaimed. ¡°It was just some artefact they wanted to keep!¡± Lisa recounted what Solomon had told her before. She never would have imagined the truth to be so anticlimactic.


    ¡°That¡¯s it?¡± He asked incredulously.


    ¡°It¡¯s what Rox told me.¡± Lisa shrugged, ready to leave.


    ¡°I can appreciate a good artefact, but even for me, that¡¯s¡­ Disappointing.¡± He lowered his head, dejected, before continuing in his business voice. ¡°But do consider the offer. I think we could achieve great things with them. Take care.¡±


    ¡°You too.¡± Lisa said without turning to look at him before walking out the door.


    ¡°What a bloody mess this is.¡± She said to herself as she got into her car and drove away.


    To say that she wasn¡¯t a fan of the idea would be an understatement. It just didn¡¯t feel right. Then again, she was already outnumbered in terms of agreeing to work with The System. Her opinion likely won¡¯t matter too much. Regardless of how much good was said about the organisation, something inside her, something so viscerally part of her just didn¡¯t want to trust them and had something against them. Something she couldn¡¯t quite put a finger on.


    She stopped in a parking space just big enough for her car to fit in. She got out and went to buy her and Solomon a few things in a nearby shop. On the way, she ran into another familiar figure, who noticed her immediately.


    ¡°Hey Lisa!¡± Lumi said with a bright smile. Her  dark and pale blue markings had been covered up with grey body paint matching her fur, most likely by Thalia. She was wearing a sleeveless black leather jacket with a black shirt under it, along with black trousers and shoes, as well as sunglasses to cover her heterochromatic eyes. She liked darkness, Lisa understood that, but that was too much black for one person to wear in her opinion. Solomon and even Thalia had grown quite fond of the bat, which she understood to an extent. She appeared so straightforward and happy with everything, she was either the best liar in the world or just genuine. Lisa still had her suspicions about her, but figured she could easily take her in a fight if needed.


    ¡°¡®Sup, Lumi?¡± Said the wolf, leaning on her cane. ¡°Adjustin¡¯ well?¡±


    ¡°I am!¡± She briefly lifted her sunglasses and gave her a wink with her dark eye. ¡°Out to get Thalia some paint.¡±


    ¡°They¡¯re selling fur paint at Sparky¡¯s?¡± She inquired, surprised that she didn¡¯t know that despite visiting the shop every now and then.


    ¡°Right?¡± She tilted her head slightly. ¡°New addition to the beauty section! Nice to see some competition, drives down the prices.¡±


    ¡°Well, that¡¯s pretty decent, innit?¡± Lisa grinned. ¡°Alright, let¡¯s go then.¡±


    Stepping out from the shop, Lisa saw that the weather had turned for the worse. It rained, not too much, but still enough to thoroughly soak people without an umbrella.


    ¡°Not the rain!¡± Lumi complained with a look of despair as she and Lisa left Sparky¡¯s with one bag each, standing below the blue and white striped awning.


    ¡°You wouldn¡¯t mind, would you?¡± The wolf put her hand forward with the bag, suggesting that Lumi take it, which she did. She opened her coat and took out a collapsible umbrella from a pocket on the inside. She pressed the button on it, the top shot forward and opened up. ¡°Always gotta be prepared.¡±


    ¡°You just have that with you everywhere?¡± The bat questioned, albeit relieved.


    ¡°I have a good few things on me, yeah.¡± Lisa put her cane through one of the belt loops on her trousers and gestured to take the bag back.


    ¡°Oh, I¡¯ll just carry it for you, don¡¯t worry.¡± She assured her. Lisa took her up on the offer and put the umbrella over both of them.


    The narrative has been taken without authorization; if you see it on Amazon, report the incident.


    ¡°I can give ya a ride home so you don¡¯t get drenched.¡± The wolf suggested and slightly lifted her cane to point in the direction where she had parked.


    ¡°That¡¯d be great, thanks!¡± Lumi said cheerfully. Suspicious or not, Lisa didn¡¯t want the bat¡¯s markings to be exposed by the weather. After all, if what she had said was correct, dark markings especially didn¡¯t ¡°like¡± being covered up. ¡°Didn¡¯t think it would rain today.¡±


    ¡°Hah!¡± Lisa couldn¡¯t help but chuckle as they started walking down the sidewalk. ¡°That¡¯s exactly the attitude that¡¯ll get ya in situations like this.¡±


    ¡°Yeah, I really should get an umbrella at least¡­¡± Lumi began and didn¡¯t stop speaking for what felt like an uncomfortably long time. Mostly about how she didn¡¯t use to have problems with the weather at her previous residences.


    They kept walking, the rain growing in intensity, beating down on the umbrella. By an alleyway, distracted by Lumi¡¯s talking, Lisa felt her cane tap against something other than the pavement: a pompously-dressed feline¡¯s shoe.


    ¡°Pardon me.¡± The wolf apologised.


    ¡°You¡¯re walking with your eyes closed, tramp?¡± She complained loudly. ¡°Don¡¯t you know who I am?¡±


    Unfortunately, Lisa knew exactly who it was upon taking a proper look. ¡°Ah, for fuck¡¯s sake¡­ What¡¯s she doing here?¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t even think about getting close to me!¡± The feline walked on after pulling a taser out of her pocket and pointing it at Lisa threateningly with her own umbrella in her other hand. After that, she put it away, took out her ringing phone, and simply started talking as if nothing had happened.


    Lisa felt one of her eyes twitch from anger.


    ¡°Don¡¯t let it get to you.¡± Lumi suggested and stepped in the alleyway to avoid the rain more. ¡°Who does she think she is?¡± She said with a frown.


    ¡°Priscilla Janette.¡± Lisa went to stand beside the bat. ¡°A stuck-up li¡¯l bitch who thinks she¡¯s better than everyone ¡®cause she starred in a bad movie once.¡± She explained with a low growl at the end, quietly enough so that only Lumi could hear it.


    ¡°That doesn¡¯t mean she gets to speak like that.¡± Lumi said sympathetically.


    Lisa had already had enough reasons to hate that woman, every single time she showed up in a headline she probably paid to be featured in, Lisa¡¯s immense dislike towards her only grew. But now¡­ Sure, a taser would have no effect on her, but to be acting that way due to a small accident, even if it was any other person, she would have felt wronged.


    ¡°Oh, really?¡± Lisa overheard the feline talk. She really, really didn¡¯t want to hear her grating voice anymore. ¡°What¡¯s the role about?¡± Priscilla asked excitedly. ¡°Yes, I can hold!¡±


    Right then, Lisa decided what she would do next, having a pretty good idea on what the conversation on the phone was about. She looked around, and saw that the streets were remarkably empty, most likely because of the ever-growing rain. Just a fraction of a second and no one to see¡­


    Lisa tapped her right foot against the ground, producing a small, nonlethal arc of electricity across the wet pavement. In a flash, it went forward then turned right in Priscilla¡¯s direction. It reached her foot and crawled up her leg all the way up to where she had put the taser. She yelped and dropped her phone from the slight shock, straight into a muddy puddle on the side of the street.


    ¡°No, no!¡± She yelled in a panic, got down to pick up the device, and tried to rid it of water and mud as best as she could. A black screen. She pressed the button to turn it on, as well as every other button on it, but it was dead.


    Lisa smiled a distastefully smug smirk, feeling thoroughly satisfied with her revenge. Better yet, all the attention from the few people around was at the feline¡¯s tantrum. Lisa knew that what she just did was mean, petty, and overall unnecessary, but it was high time someone put that arrogant and haughty feline in her place. Especially after yelling at her for no reason!


    ¡°Lisa!¡± Lumi said in hardly more than a whisper, looking disappointed. ¡°Why¡¯d you do that?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s the li¡¯l things in life, mate.¡± She gave Priscilla one more glance as she desperately tried to turn the phone back on. She took out her taser and hissed at it angrily.


    Lisa and Lumi left the alleyway, the latter lecturing the former on the reasons why she should have been the bigger person, as well as karma. The wolf didn¡¯t give it much thought, the look on Priscilla¡¯s face and the sheer schadenfreude made it more than worth it in her mind.


    A visit to Thalia, coupled with Lumi¡¯s more private concerns about using magic in public like that, and an uneventful drive later, Lisa was finally back home. The rain was still falling, in more of a light drizzle.


    She put the umbrella by the door to dry and sat down on her couch. She took out her phone to see two messages: one from Solomon, who wrote to her earlier that she was on her way, and a friend request from Milo Goddard.


    Thrilled, she accepted and went to do the laundry she had prepared in the morning. While doing that, she felt her phone vibrate with another message.


    ¡°Hiii!¡± The message from Milo read. Lisa couldn¡¯t help but chuckle at that first line. ¡°Thanks again for helping today! And guess what, this may actually be related to Roland¡¯s disappearance! Isn¡¯t that exciting???¡±


    Lisa wasn¡¯t sure if he was supposed to share such information through text messages, but she wasn¡¯t going to rat him out if he wasn¡¯t.


    ¡°Hey! That¡¯s great, let¡¯s see where that goes.¡± She replied and returned to her laundry. After finishing that, she realised that she completely forgot about the bag she still had in her car. Slightly annoyed, she retrieved it and put it on the kitchen table where Solomon wouldn¡¯t immediately notice it. She took out a couple items she had bought that could use a replacement and  left one thing in the bag for Solomon to find.


    Lisa chatted with Milo for a good twenty minutes while doing chores around the house before she heard a car pull up once more. She went to open the front door and was met with the same, black car in her driveway.


    Solomon got out and said goodbye to the driver, then walked up to Lisa and gave her hug.


    ¡°How was your day, Roxy?¡± She petted her head as they got inside. Something, however, felt different¡­ Normally, she really needed to focus on the smell of sulphur on her to even notice it. That time, it was more pronounced. Not enough to bother her, but there nonetheless.


    ¡°Oh, I was working with different acids to see if any have an effect.¡± She explained as she stretched. ¡°The trip is still way too long¡­¡±


    ¡°You learned anything new ¡®bout that?¡± Lisa asked, going to the kitchen to prepare some tea for the two of them.


    ¡°Sulphuric acid.¡± She sat down, Lisa could tell that she wasn¡¯t in the greatest of moods. ¡°Seems like that empowers me for some reason. That¡¯s it for the good news though¡­¡± She lowered her head in a mixture of sadness and annoyance.


    ¡°At least it explains the scent.¡±


    ¡°What did they do this time?¡± Lisa inquired, her enthusiasm faltering.


    ¡°Just look at this!¡± Solomon invited her to come and take a look at her phone. Lisa obliged and was shocked at what she saw. An image of a timetable, three days in a row, Solomon needed to be there next week. That alone, she already found egregious, but worse than that, it coincided with their plans to take the trip with Yaroslav.


    ¡°Are you fuckin¡¯ serious?¡± Lisa complained, feeling like her dislike towards the organisation has finally been starting to get justified. All that planning, all that arranging with Adelar, was undone just like that. ¡°Can¡¯t it be rescheduled or something?¡±


    ¡°I asked Shaquia, and no, not without causing problems.¡± The feline admitted, regretfully. ¡°I¡¯m sorry¡­ I know how much you were looking forward to this.¡±


    Lisa made her hands into fists, then relaxed them. ¡°Those daft wankers¡­¡± She said through gritted teeth. She wanted to go on a full-on tirade, to fire up her power, to just let the room be illuminated in dazzling, incandescent electric light. And she would have done so if she was alone, but no, she couldn¡¯t do that in front of her girlfriend.


    ¡°It¡¯s okay, Lisa.¡± Solomon put her arms around the wolf, rubbing her back. That, admittedly, made her calm down a little. ¡°We¡¯ll just¡­ Find another time.¡±


    ¡°Fuck¡­¡± Lisa rubbed her temples as Solomon let go of her. ¡°Yaro¡¯s gonna be real disappointed too, I can just feel it.¡± She said as she sat down with Solomon. ¡°He got everything prepared for us too!¡±


    ¡°You could still go.¡± Solomon suggested with a shrug.


    Lisa didn¡¯t want to believe what Solomon just said.


    ¡°Really?¡± The wolf furrowed her brows as she looked her in the eye. ¡°Why¡¯d I go without you, Rox?¡±


    ¡°You told me how much you wanted to see that museum.¡± The cat argued. ¡°How much you wanted to see that square, rent a cabin by that lake, a traditional sauna with ice-cold water for the thrill after, the pubs¡­¡±


    As much as Lisa hated to admit it, Solomon was right. She was excited for it, she wanted to do all of that, especially to go and see the museum dedicated to classical music, all with Yaroslav as the ¡°guide¡± so to say.


    ¡°I wanted to do all that with you, Roxy!¡± She claimed, but could tell by Solomon¡¯s smirk that she saw right through her.


    ¡°I¡¯ll be fine, ma ch¨¦rie.¡± She assured her. ¡°I¡¯ll get done with that meeting, then it¡¯s two weeks with no System! All to ourselves, I¡¯ll persuade Adelar to give us a couple more days off.¡±


    Lisa wasn¡¯t sure if she should mention Adelar¡¯s plans to Solomon yet. She had received enough bad news already, she didn¡¯t need to hear more. Not to mention, she really, really wasn¡¯t in the mood to talk about the organisation.


    ¡°I mean¡­¡± Lisa sighed and shook her head. ¡°Yeah.¡± Her face lit up with a smile. ¡°That sounds good.¡±


    ¡°The best of both worlds! As much as we can get right now anyway.¡± She gave Lisa a kiss on the cheek. ¡°I¡¯ll keep you updated too.¡±


    ¡°I would have preferred to just have ya there¡­¡± She stood up and shrugged her shoulders. ¡°But I guess it can¡¯t be helped.¡± She stepped towards the kitchen to get their tea, only to be stopped by Solomon.


    ¡°I¡¯ll get that, dear.¡± Said the cat. ¡°That works too.¡±


    Lisa could see Solomon¡¯s curious gaze catch the bag on the kitchen table. She stuck out the tip of her tongue and bit back a laugh as her girlfriend went to investigate, her mood rapidly improving.


    The feline took out what was in the bag, which turned out to be a light red shirt. After she unfolded it, she took a look at it and laughed, which Lisa joined in on with a giggle.


    ¡°Really, Lisa?¡± She said as she flipped the shirt, showing her the front of it. There was a simple drawing of a feline with a chemistry flask on it with text below it reading ¡°cat-ion¡±.


    ¡°I just knew I had to get it when I saw it.¡± Lisa said with a cheeky smile. ¡°Not to mention, I really wanted to see your¡­¡± She paused to clear her throat. ¡°Reaction.¡± She said with a smirk.


    ¡°Okay there.¡± Solomon said with exaggerated disappointment. ¡°My sense of humour is really rubbing off on you now.¡± She folded the shirt back up and went to presumably take it upstairs, only to stop and hold up her index finger.


    ¡°Right, I almost forgot.¡± She took out a small, stone sphere from each of her pockets. ¡°A little gift from Father.¡±


    ¡°Wow.¡± Lisa said, unimpressed. ¡°How nice of him.¡±


    ¡°They¡¯re infused with light.¡± Solomon explained after a short-lived frown. ¡°If you try to infuse them, the light will drain and heal you.¡± She gave the spheres to Lisa, who took a long look at them. ¡°Handle with care though, he doesn¡¯t know what¡¯ll happen if they break.¡±


    ¡°Well ain¡¯t that somethin¡¯.¡± Said Lisa, her lips curling into a smile. ¡°Father gave us his holy balls.¡±


    Solomon tilted her head back as she let out an exasperated sigh.


    ¡°Jokes aside, that¡¯s pretty damn useful.¡± Lisa remarked.


    ¡°Right?¡± Solomon smiled. ¡°I¡¯ll go take a shower, I really feel the need for one after all the testing today.¡± She stated, walking up the stairs.


    ¡°Wanna save on the water bill?¡± Lisa teased, catching Solomon off guard, who blushed at first.


    ¡°You bet, love.¡± She giggled and made her way to the first floor of the house.

 Chapter 32 - Secrets

    The day Solomon had previously been looking forward to arrived fast, starting all too similarly to any other day she would visit The System. She groggily lifted her head from her pillow and was met with Lisa already getting ready to leave for the airport, still in her pyjamas.


    ¡°Slept well, luv?¡± The wolf asked, closing her grey travel bag.


    ¡°Could have been better.¡± She rubbed her eyes and got up. ¡°Just please stay safe, Lisa.¡±


    Lisa chuckled at that, looking more concerned for Solomon than herself.


    ¡°Roxy, I basically have a built-in taser with me at all times.¡± She reassured her, put her bag over her shoulder, and took a step towards the door. ¡°We¡¯re s¡¯posed to be a bit tougher too, yeah?¡±


    ¡°Not by much.¡± Solomon looked down at her hands, catching Genesis¡¯ attention. ¡°Guns can still do more than enough damage¡­ What if your cabin catches fire?¡±


    Lisa stopped in her tracks and raised an eyebrow at Solomon. ¡°Oh come on, Rox.¡± She put the bag down and went to give the feline a hug. ¡°I¡¯ve come back from way worse than a trip. You don¡¯t have to worry.¡±


    But worried, Solomon was. The past couple months have been so sweet and nice together with Lisa, she never wanted it to end, especially not because of a freak accident. There was something more she could do, just to make sure she¡¯s that much safer.


    ¡°You know, I learned to do something new...¡± She took a glance at her markings. Genesis understood. That guilt she felt about not telling Lisa about him was redoubled inside her, but she could at least put his knowledge to good use.


    ¡°And that is?¡± Lisa asked, crossing her arms with a slight smile.


    ¡°I can protect things from acid and fire.¡± She began to explain, then put her hands on Lisa¡¯s shoulders. ¡°But I also know how to protect people.¡±


    ¡°Woah, alright.¡± The wolf said in a surprised tone. ¡°So you can just infuse, or bless, or whatever people too?¡±


    ¡°Yes, I can.¡± She put her trust into Genesis and gave him control. ¡°Now¡­ Stay still.¡±


    Lisa didn¡¯t recoil, didn¡¯t even look uncomfortable in the slightest as the markings on the cat¡¯s normally destructive hands lit up, the magic flowing in. Solomon tried to stay calm and watched until that green aura-like glow appeared around Lisa¡¯s body, signalling that it was enough. Genesis powered down the magic, the glow was soon gone.


    ¡°We¡¯re done.¡± Solomon announced.


    ¡°I don¡¯t feel too different, to be frank.¡± Lisa put one arm forward and twisted it, inspecting it. ¡°But we could see¡­¡±


    Solomon perked her ears as Lisa swiftly retrieved her lighter. She lit it up and put the flame against her fur. Solomon tried to stop her, just in case, but wasn¡¯t fast enough. Much to Solomon¡¯s relief, however, the protection worked without delay. Lisa was officially immune!


    ¡°Rash decision there, Lisa¡­¡± She remarked.


    ¡°It¡¯s good to test it!¡± Lisa said and resumed getting the bag downstairs.


    After another long car ride, Solomon stepped inside The System HQ, trying her best not to show that she¡¯d rather be somewhere else with other people. She noticed nothing different, no big preparations for the so-called important people who she was told would be attending that day. Well, there was one thing: Shaquia didn¡¯t immediately go and find her. Finding that to be somewhat welcome, she went to continue reading the Ledger.


    Opting to take the stairs, she ran into Benedict on the way up, who was carrying a few papers on his person.


    ¡°Oh hey!¡± Said the raccoon, stopping in his tracks, much to the displeasure of the person behind him, a deer with curved horns. ¡°I have some good news, Solomon!¡± He took a look at one of the papers as the deer went to go around him with an annoyed frown.


    ¡°Good, I¡¯m in dire need of those today.¡± Solomon remarked, stepping out of the way. She felt a sense of anticipation from Genesis. ¡°What is it?¡±


    ¡°Our order should arrive later today.¡± He flipped through the rest of the papers.


    Those words were music to Solomon¡¯s ears, as well as Genesis¡¯. That sense of power, she could certainly use it that day especially.


    ¡°We¡¯re looking into why it might have the effect that it does on you¡­ But there¡¯s not much progress there.¡± He admitted.


    ¡°We know that it does.¡± She shrugged. ¡°By the way, do you know when we¡¯ll start with the meeting?¡±


    ¡°Shaqie will tell you.¡± Benedict replied. ¡°Or at least someone will, you can go do whatever until then.¡±


    ¡°Alright, tell me if anything happens.¡± She felt her hand tingle and allowed Genesis to take over. She then felt her hand raise in a little wave as Benedict went to leave. She knew Genesis wasn¡¯t fond of anyone with any sort of fire magic, but was glad to see him try to adjust.


    ¡°See ya!¡± The raccoon waved back as he turned left at the bottom of the stairs.


    Expecting a call from Shaquia on the radio or her phone at any moment, Solomon went to the well-guarded room where The Ledger was kept. The password that time was ¡°trepidation¡±. She had a sneaking suspicion that the meeting will at least partially be about the Lightborn, so she thought she would learn a bit more about Bright Ones, skipping over a few pages.


    The page she decided to stop at had another illustration: a majestic person coloured white with a circle of what was certainly an aura of light around their head. The title of the section read ¡°True Light¡±.


    ¡°Able to regenerate the self and others alike, True Light is the single most sought-after type of magic. Its light causes near-instantaneous healing to the injured and pure joy for the healthy. Some believe that the light induces unnatural trust towards the wielder of the power.


    However, there is no creation without destruction. Accordingly, the simplest and most preferred technique of True Light is concentrated rays of light, able to cut through lighter materials and flesh.¡± That sent a chill down Solomon¡¯s spine; Luxor may not have been True Light, but his powers sure were a lot like what the book described.


    ¡°Additionally, True Light comes with an exceptional power: to revive the dead.¡± Solomon nearly fell out of her seat, Genesis understood her concerns.


    ¡°Luxor can¡¯t do that, right? Right?¡± She asked as took out her notebook, thoroughly shook.


    ¡°You would think that I would remember such a detail.¡± Solomon was sure she was about to have a heart attack, but then Genesis went on. ¡°Fortunately, he is not able to do that, I am sure.¡±


    ¡°Next time, say the good part first¡­¡± She complained, going back to reading.


    ¡°Certain conditions need to be met for this: the subject must not have died of natural causes, the Sun must be visible, and darkness must not have fallen since the death occurred. If all apply to the subject, they can come back to life. The person¡¯s condition after depends on how much time had passed, some subjects reported a great aversion to sleeping. True Light can even revive Mystic Ones if they can make contact with the body before the magic consumes it.¡±


    ¡°Well that¡¯s¡­ Charming.¡± Solomon remarked, suddenly experiencing a slight bout of existential dread. The fact that Genesis tried to comfort her with his emotions didn¡¯t exactly help with that. At the very least, she was grateful that the white fox couldn¡¯t quite play god to the extent that he probably would have wanted.


    ¡°Dark Ones cannot be revived and under no circumstances must it be attempted. See: Asuut¡¯s End.¡± Her curiosity thoroughly piqued, she noted the page she was on and went to check the table of contents to find it. In the meantime, Genesis wrote down something.


    ¡°I have no recollection of such an incident.¡± Solomon didn¡¯t quite like the sound of that.


    ¡°Asuut¡¯s End¡± read the title of the section. ¡°Asuut ¡°The Dark Sun¡± was considered to be controversial among the people, surrounding himself with Mystic Ones for protection and show of power. He even had the city where he resided renamed after himself. He was given ¡°The Dark Sun¡± nickname after darkness manifested in him in his 4th year of reign. Some thought of him as a stubborn tyrant, official records say that the people prospered due to his questionable decisions, having established some of the harshest laws.¡± Solomon knew exactly what she thought of him: she wasn¡¯t really a fan.


    ¡°In the 24th year of his reign, he fell gravely ill. Refusing to give up his dark magic, on what would become his deathbed, he ordered that True Light be brought to him. Declining any negotiations, his servants obliged and the finest of healing magic was delivered. Unable to do anything about the king¡¯s condition, an attempt was made to revive him once the darkness started taking over Asuut¡¯s body. Rather than help, his body disintegrated.¡± Genesis wasn¡¯t impressed in the slightest.


    ¡°While the city of Asuut mourned the loss of the ruler, an envoy was sent to the closest city, Seeis, to spread the word of his passing. That envoy would come to be known as the ¡°luckiest canine alive¡±.  The next day, he went back to the city of Asuut, only to return to Seeis the same day. He was labelled a madman at first, but after Seeis¡¯ governor sent a group of soldiers to check Asuut for any threats, what the envoy had said had been confirmed. The entire population of Asuut, nearly two thousand people, had vanished overnight.¡± The information left Solomon with a mild sense of discomfort. She felt her hands tingle, feeling that Genesis really wanted to tell something, but ignored it. ¡°Not now¡­¡±


    Stolen from Royal Road, this story should be reported if encountered on Amazon.


    ¡°Slaves, citizens, around twenty Mystic Ones, including True Light, all disappeared. There were hardly signs of a fight, what little had been found was deemed to be results of everyday arguments. The envoy was pardoned and new laws were made about the use of magic accordingly, specifically about the healing of Dark Ones. The city was left alone after the incident, no one dared to even approach it, lest they suffer ¡°Asuut¡¯s curse¡±. With time, nature slowly reclaimed the city, leaving nothing but ruins.¡±


    ¡°Who could have added this?¡± Solomon asked as she let Genesis write.


    ¡°Seeis! I remember that!¡± The words hit the feline like a ton of bricks.


    ¡°Tell me more! What do you remember?¡± Solomon implored, tail wagging.


    ¡°I know I was there once. It was an unremarkable city, but that is where I conducted my first experiments. As for Asuut¡­ I still have no recollection of that. It must have happened after my time.¡±


    Solomon went to check her phone with the hopes that she would find out anything about the city. To her great anger and disappointment, there was no mention of it anywhere that she could find.


    ¡°Putain!¡± She yelled, slamming the table, which Genesis didn¡¯t like. ¡°Sorry¡­ I thought we could find out more about your past with this Seeis.¡± She apologised, ears drooping.


    ¡°As I said, it was unremarkable. If I wasn¡¯t there for a few years, I would not have remembered it.¡± Solomon found that to be kind of egotistical, but in a way, she understood.


    ¡°Alright, let¡¯s go back to True Light.¡± She suggested, turning the pages back to the section in question.


    ¡°There has been no recorded case of True Light meeting with True Darkness.¡± Genesis once again wanted to have a word about that.


    ¡°So that has not changed since I was alive? Interesting.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s one way to put it¡­¡± Solomon said, turning her attention back to the book. She read a small section describing True Magic incompatibility.


    ¡°Category: greatly beneficial - highly dangerous, even catastrophic if allowed to attempt reviving a Dark One.¡±


    ¡°I think we can agree on that.¡± She remarked, sharing the sentiment with Genesis. ¡°So many people¡­ An entire city, gone like that. How?¡±


    Their reading session was interrupted by the sound of a crackle on her radio. She lifted it up and had a listen.


    ¡°Solomon, you are requested at the main entrance ASAP.¡± Said the voice of Shaquia. ¡°Catherine will arrive soon.¡±


    ¡°Alright, be right there.¡± The feline responded and closed The Ledger.


    ¡°Requesting a new plate.¡± Said one of the guards as she walked out from the room. Eager to possibly find out more about Asuut¡¯s End later, she set her mind on the matters at hand and went straight to the entrance of the facility where Shaquia awaited her along with Sheila and Andreas.


    ¡°Remember the plan, everyone.¡± Sheila began to say in an authoritative tone. ¡°Sheila, you take care of the newcomers. Andreas, you¡¯ll escort Catherine to her room. And you¡­¡± She then glanced from them to Solomon. ¡°You just do as we say for now.¡±


    The feline put on a pouty face and crossed her arms, feeling rather patronised. Genesis shared her sentiment, but at the same time, found it entertaining. ¡°Oh, really?¡±


    Before they could continue, the entrance doors swung open and the French branch representatives practically poured into the main area, led by an opossum clad in a gaudy, white suit.


    ¡°Ah, bonjour!¡± She said as she went to shake hands with Shaquia.


    ¡°Welcome, Catherine.¡± The lynx replied, Solomon could have guessed that she didn¡¯t like the opossum even without Shaquia telling before. Catherine looked past her and straight at the cat.


    ¡°You must be that new one everyone keeps mentioning all the time.¡± She smiled as she said that with an accent that sounded very forced. And the tone¡­ If words could cut, Solomon would have needed bandages. She then tapped her chin, as if thinking deeply. ¡°What was your name again¡­¡±


    Genesis immediately disliked Catherine. ¡°Oh come on, give her a chance. Or if not, at least put up with her.¡±


    ¡°Roxa-¡± Was all she could manage to say before Catherine brushed it off and went on to Sheila. Solomon tried her best to hide her being insulted. In the meantime, the rest of the people came in, 15 in total.


    ¡°Anyway, let me introduce the replacements you so desperately needed.¡± Catherine said to Shaquia, then went to stand next to a lizard with mostly green scales. Above the collar of his comparatively casual sweater, orange markings covered his neck. ¡°Jules Abadie, nicknamed ¡®Dragon¡¯.¡±


    Solomon may have started to agree with Genesis¡¯ dislike of the opossum, but that¡­ Nicknames? She found that kind of charming.


    ¡°For your second Blazing One¡­¡± She went to stand next to a gruff-looking lion with markings of fire on his hands, wearing a suit. ¡°Noah Duclos, nicknamed ¡®General¡¯.¡± The lion¡¯s gaze was fixed on Sheila, who in turn had hers fixed on him. Genesis didn¡¯t like that they got two new Blazing Ones.


    ¡°And don¡¯t think I forgot about your Frost Ones either!¡± She went past a fennec fox, shorter than Solomon even with his ears taken into account, who just looked up with an innocent smile. ¡°A real professional, Jean-Pierre Andre, nicknamed ¡®Rime¡¯.¡± He closed his eyes and waved at them in that small, yet still slightly oversized all black suit of his.


    ¡°And lastly¡­¡± Catherine smirked as she stood next to an almost sickly pale-looking snake with a hoodie on, hands in pockets, tail kept out of sight. She removed the hood, revealing his true colours: pale blue.


    ¡°Is that¡­¡± Shocked, Shaquia began to say.


    ¡°Oh, it is!¡± Catherine patted the snake¡¯s neck. ¡°Ludwig may have wanted him hidden, but after five years, here he is now! True Frost, ¡®Ice Age!¡¯¡± She announced, looking immensely proud, even Genesis was in awe. Proud, however, said snake certainly wasn¡¯t. He couldn¡¯t have been more than 20, looked terribly uncomfortable and dejected.


    Solomon recognised that look. She was taking more of a guess, really, but she was certain the snake wasn¡¯t too happy about having that power.


    ¡°That¡¯s amazing!¡± Happy with the discovery, the lynx reached out a hand, which he reluctantly shook. ¡°But¡­ Why would Ludwig want such a power hidden?¡±


    The snake rolled his eyes.


    ¡°Who knows! Maybe he wanted it for himself once properly trained.¡± Catherine shrugged.


    ¡°How come we don¡¯t do nicknames?¡± Solomon interjected, earning a displeased look from Shaquia and a particularly devious grin from Catherine.


    ¡°Because Ludwig was no fun!¡± The opossum complained, walking over to her with a strut. ¡°There are so many great options too!¡± She glanced at Shaquia. ¡°You could be ¡®Industry¡¯! Oh, or ¡®Vapour!¡¯¡±


    Shaquia nodded along with the least genuine smile Solomon had ever seen, her hands behind her back.


    ¡°What about the rest of your entourage?¡± Solomon asked, taking a brief look in the direction of the other ten people.


    ¡°Oh, you silly kitty.¡± Catherine said in a tone so condescending that it rivalled Ludwig¡¯s. ¡°I¡¯m too important not to have enough bodyguards with me.¡±


    Solomon was sure Genesis really wanted to show how little ten bodyguards can mean for certain people.


    ¡°Noted.¡± The cat replied and found herself agreeing with her companion more and more.


    ¡°Speaking of, someone escort me to my abode, please.¡± She requested and Andreas stepped forward.


    ¡°I will do that, sire.¡± He said with a stone-cold expression. Solomon was envious of how little he could let the opossum get to him.


    ¡°Shouldn¡¯t it be ¡®dame¡¯?¡± She made an attempt to correct him as they began to walk away.


    ¡°I call everyone that, sire.¡± He replied, the ten bodyguards went to follow after them.


    Shaquia brought her hands forward, and they were shaking. Solomon was about to ask if she was okay when she clenched them into fists. Steam rose up from her entire upper body.


    ¡°Solomon¡­¡± She said with a slight glare. ¡°I swear, if she calls me ¡®Vapour¡¯ from now on¡­¡±


    ¡°Sorry¡­¡± Solomon responded, feeling guilty. Genesis apparently found it amusing. ¡°Oh, REALLY?¡±


    ¡°Anyway¡­¡± Shaquia sighed and turned towards the snake. ¡°Come with me, please. We have a lot to take care of.¡±


    The snake nodded, disinterested, and followed the lynx after putting his hoodie back on, dragging his long tail behind him.


    ¡°Okay¡­ That didn¡¯t go too well. Let¡¯s go meet the rest then.¡±


    Solomon walked up to the lizard, putting on the friendliest face she could manage.


    ¡°Hey, I¡¯m Roxa-¡± She began to introduce herself, only for the lizard to step to the side and go past her. She turned around, her gaze following the lizard as he completely disregarded her and went after Shaquia and the snake.


    ¡°Well call me ¡®Spiral Stairs¡¯ the way he stepped over me!¡± She said to the lion he had been standing next to, catching his attention. Genesis didn¡¯t seem to like her attempt at humour.


    ¡°Don¡¯t blame him too much, he¡¯s allergic to cats.¡± The lion¡¯s words practically sent Solomon to the floor.


    ¡°...what?¡± She questioned. ¡°I thought you could only be allergic to wild cats!¡±


    ¡°Apparently not.¡± He lifted his head from her to Sheila, who was now in front of him, the two looking into each other¡¯s eyes with great disapproval.


    ¡°General.¡± Said the lioness.


    ¡°Sarge.¡± Said the lion. He then put forward a fist, which Sheila bumped with hers. They then smiled and put an arm around each other¡¯s shoulders, laughing.


    ¡°It¡¯s been too long!¡± General released Sheila and crossed his arms.


    ¡°Indeed it has, pal.¡± Sheila grinned widely. ¡°How can you even put up with her?¡±


    ¡°I could ask you the same.¡± He remarked, causing both to chuckle. ¡°The old man finally kicks the bucket and you don¡¯t get to the top?¡±


    Genesis¡¯ dislike towards the replacement newcomers only seemed to grow. ¡°Don¡¯t worry, we won¡¯t have to meet them often.¡±


    ¡°Oh you know.¡± Sheila waved dismissively. ¡°I see how much it stresses Shaqie out, thought it was better to be the second-best.¡±


    ¡°Fair.¡± He stroked his mane. ¡°You¡¯d have even more of a resting bitch face then, if that¡¯s even possible.¡±


    ¡°It will be, if you keep this up.¡± Sheila patted him on the back and started to walk down the main hall and in the direction of the training area. ¡°Come meet the other Blazing Ones, that¡¯ll show ¡®em what they¡¯ll become eventually!¡±


    ¡°I can¡¯t say I like them too much so far. Well maybe-¡±


    Her train of thought was interrupted by the sound of snapping fingers from behind her. ¡°Rude.¡± Frustrated that she can¡¯t get a proper conversation with any of the new people, she turned around and was surprised to see a three-letter word made of ice written on Rime¡¯s suit: ¡°Hey¡±.


    ¡°Oh¡­ Hey there.¡± She said, her and Genesis both taken a little aback.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry.¡± The icy words shifted on his chest. ¡°It¡¯s how I get people¡¯s attention.¡± Due to his small build, he could hardly fit more than a few words on him at once in a ¡°font¡± big enough to comfortably read. Solomon was left amazed at his ability.


    ¡°Wow! That¡¯s incredible, Jean-Pierre!¡± She exclaimed and walked closer to him.


    ¡°Just call me Rime.¡± The words formed on him with a humble look. ¡°People call me that all the time.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s such perfect control!¡± She said with admiration in her voice.


    ¡°Thanks!¡± He rubbed the back of his head. ¡°That¡¯s what I¡¯m here for. To teach people control over magic! It gave me a voice, so I try to give back to the world.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s great!¡± She said, having a hard time putting her thoughts into words. ¡°Come to think of it¡­ How come they don¡¯t just heal him?¡±


    ¡°It isn¡¯t for combat, but that doesn¡¯t matter to me.¡± The ice changed form. ¡°Can you show me to that training area of yours?¡±


    ¡°Oh, sure!¡± Solomon nodded gleefully. ¡°Follow me.¡±

 Chapter 33 - Quandary

    ¡°Each room is marked with a different symbol, you can¡¯t miss it.¡± Solomon said to Rime as they went through the door to the conglomerate of training rooms. The first one they passed was the one for Blazing Ones with the orange fire symbol. Even just being in its vicinity, Solomon felt a tinge of fear from Genesis. Marked with a blue lightning symbol, the next one had been named ¡°Electrician¡¯s Closet¡± by The System¡¯s more amateur Mystic Ones. Solomon was told that it could yield worse results to have Blazing Ones and Frost Ones so close to each other, so they settled for this. She could hear the crackling of electricity as they passed.


    ¡°This would be it.¡± The feline stated, stopping by a door with a light blue snowflake on it, then turned her head upon hearing Rime snap his fingers.


    ¡°Thank you¡­¡± The icy letters on the fennec¡¯s chest read. ¡°Sorry, what¡¯s your name? I don¡¯t think you said it before.¡± He put his arms behind his back and flicked his big ears with a friendly smile.


    ¡°Roxanne Solomon.¡± She answered and opened the door to the ¡°Freezer¡± as they called it. A chill immediately hit her, the cold shock making her recoil slightly.


    ¡°See you later, Solomon!¡± The words on Rime¡¯s back formed as he turned his head to smile at her. He then went inside the considerably less populated training room, only five other people were present there. ¡°So that¡¯s five, plus Rime, Benedict, and the snake¡­ And whoever¡¯s not here right now.¡±


    A snowy owl with hardly visible markings of frost shut the door after the fennec entered, leaving Solomon by herself outside. ¡°Speaking of that snake¡­ I should go see what his deal is. True Frost, after all!¡±


    Solomon left the training area and as she was going towards Shaquia¡¯s office on the ground floor, she heard static from her radio followed by her name being uttered by Benedict.


    ¡°Yes?¡± She spoke, putting the idea of the snake aside for now, having a decent idea on what the raccoon wanted.


    ¡°Come to the warehouse, we got the delivery!¡± He said with great excitement, which paled in comparison to hers and Genesis¡¯.


    ¡°On my way.¡± She put away the radio and practically spun around in the direction of the warehouse entrance, where two more heavily armed guards were stationed. She flashed her markings, gaining entrance.


    She had to admit, after the incident, every time she went there, which didn¡¯t really happen all that often, it somehow looked a little bit more organised. She guessed it was Shaquia¡¯s giving Benedict more workers to take care of things, or just the generally improved morale after Ludwig¡¯s demise, or perhaps both.


    Solomon simply had to look straight down the first corridor to see that at the end, people were gathered around something about half a metre tall. The closer she got, the more apparent it became what it was: a tub, industrial in terms of appearance. Benedict and his workers were all wearing protective gear; gloves, some just protective glasses, others going as far as putting on gas masks.


    ¡°Alright, I¡¯m here.¡± Solomon announced, which Genesis found ever so slightly insulting. ¡°Correction: we¡¯re here.¡± She said after a sigh, allowing the scholar to wave to them all using her hand. Looking into the tub, she saw that it was filled about three-quarters with a familiar, transparent liquid.


    ¡°This is as much as we could get without drawing too much suspicion.¡± The raccoon explained, his voice slightly muffled behind the gas mask.


    ¡°We did say that it was for industrial reasons.¡± Said a rodent with light brown fur in a chauffeur¡¯s clothing.


    Solomon removed her gloves and stood above the tub, the anticipation from Genesis growing stronger and stronger.


    ¡°Thank you all!¡± She said, speaking for both her and her companion.


    ¡°Shouldn¡¯t you put on some protection?¡± Benedict suggested, gently grabbing her shoulder.


    ¡°It wouldn¡¯t make much sense if I was immune to the acid but not its fumes, non?¡± She argued.


    ¡°Didn¡¯t your friend say that it was imperfect?¡± He retorted, concern palpable in his voice.


    The feline took a look at her hands and felt no strong emotion from Genesis, other than a sense of urgency.


    ¡°He did. But I trust him.¡± She stated and lifted her leg above the tub, carefully lowering it down into the liquid. The moment the tip of her foot touched it, that same sensation, it coursed through her body all the same in an instant.


    ¡°Solomon, if you die-¡± The raccoon started to say, but before he could even finish, she was submerged from the neck down, causing the workers to recoil and back away from the tub.


    ¡°Such¡­ Power¡­¡± Solomon said, experiencing the purest form of relaxation, juxtaposed with incredible strength. She visualised Genesis on a bed of pillows last time, this time, it was more like lying in a field of finest catnip, caressed by the fanciest feathers of whatever devilish angel might have possessed Genesis to make this magic of his. All of that, right before leading a one-feline crusade against the adversaries, the traitors that sentenced him to death by fire for his misunderstood genius.


    ¡°Ah.¡± Solomon¡¯s eyes snapped open. ¡°I see your power is returning, Genesis. Your emotions are most vivid.¡± Her euphoria was suddenly interrupted by a thought as she felt her hands tingle. If his power is returning¡­


    ¡°Truly.¡± He wrote into the notebook. Her markings glowed with such intensity, it reminded Solomon of Lumi¡¯s when she was in the presence of True Darkness.


    ¡°Well now I¡¯ve seen it all.¡± The chauffeur remarked, followed by the sound of footsteps.


    ¡°Genesis¡­¡± Solomon began to say, she could tell that he felt her worry. ¡°Does it mean that you can just force my hands against my will again?¡±


    ¡°I could.¡± The words send a shiver down her spine at first. ¡°But I will not. There is no need for that. You have been a most wonderful host and a true friend. I will not betray your trust.¡±


    Host¡­ She never quite learned to be comfortable with that word. She had always associated it with the most repulsive of beings, fictional or not. But Genesis¡­ He was neither. He had proved to be neither.


    ¡°I trust you not to do that.¡± She said, the idea still making her just a bit uncomfortable.


    ¡°Unless I have to act fast and your life is at stake.¡± He added, which Solomon found both disturbing and comforting.


    ¡°Should we leave her be?¡± One of the workers suggested.


    ¡°Quite possibly.¡± Said Benedict, signalling for them to gather around him. ¡°Although, I feel like we should leave someone here just in case.¡±


    One worker took a good look at Solomon before turning back to his boss.


    ¡°Not me.¡± He said and moved his hand horizontally. ¡°Oscar, you can look after Possessed Girl.¡± He pointed at another raccoon.


    Solomon felt her hands twitch involuntarily.


    ¡°Bon sang, calm it, Genesis.¡± Solomon complained, surprised by just how fast he was gaining power. It even drew some more attention to her. ¡°I can handle myself, don¡¯t worry.¡± She assured the ones present.


    ¡°Don¡¯t have to tell me twice.¡± Said one of the workers as he left along with two others.


    ¡°Aw, man¡­¡± Benedict shook his head.


    ¡°I still scare them, don¡¯t I?¡± Solomon guessed. She saw two more workers lightly nod behind Benedict. Even if she did, she didn¡¯t care much. The people that mattered trusted her, and that was all she needed.


    ¡°Hey, if you¡¯re sure, we¡¯ll leave you be.¡± The raccoon offered. ¡°Just¡­ Get out and seek medical help the moment you start to feel¡­ Off, alright?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve worked with similar substances before.¡± Solomon explained, letting herself be immersed in the feeling of rising power. ¡°This¡­ Is nothing like any of that. This definitely won¡¯t hurt me, I feel the power within me, we both do!¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll tell Shaquia about it, I¡¯m sure she¡¯ll want to hear it!¡± Benedict said and took a step in the direction of the exit, taking off his gas mask. ¡°Call me if you need help!¡±


    ¡°Will do!¡± Solomon closed her eyes and heard the people¡¯s footsteps slowly become more distant.


    She and her particularly close friend lay in the tub filled with otherwise deadly acid, taking in the power it inexplicably granted them. She heard people come and go, not paying them any mind.


    The things Solomon had always been told during her training when handling such liquids, she couldn¡¯t help but find it funny in her current position. And to an extent, it made her think about how she was brought up. Always stay clean, always stay safe, don¡¯t step out of line, don¡¯t question people. All things that no doubt contributed to her habits as well. If her parents could see what exactly she did after moving to the UK, she wasn¡¯t sure if they¡¯d be proud or disappointed.


    After what felt like an hour had passed, she and Genesis very suddenly felt the sensation change. Rather than leaving Genesis, and Solomon by extension, wanting more, they felt immense satisfaction of body and mind. Solomon sat, then stood up in the tub and let the acid roll off of her in seconds. Her markings glowed bright enough to rival the way they did after Genesis learned of his ultimate betrayal. She felt like she could actually, properly do the things he could, if only she followed the teaching she hoped he would give.


    She took her radio off the edge of the tub and raised it up to her mouth to speak.


    ¡°We¡¯re done, Benedict.¡± She stepped out from her unusual place of rest.


    ¡°Nice! How are you feeling?¡± He responded almost immediately.


    ¡°Oh. I feel alive.¡± Solomon stated, walking down the long hall of the warehouse.


    ¡°Meet me at your earliest convenience.¡± Shaquia¡¯s voice came through the radio.


    ¡°Mind if I take a shower first?¡± The cat inquired.


    ¡°I would suggest that you do.¡± Said the lynx, Solomon understood her point.


    ¡°Roger that.¡± She walked through the warehouse entrance, nodding to the guards along the way. She then made her way to the nearest bathroom to take a much-needed shower. Genesis was so preoccupied with revelling in this feeling of power that he didn¡¯t even retreat into Solomon¡¯s mind until she turned on the shower. She liked to imagine him passed out, eyes closed as an explanation.


    After drying herself and getting dressed, she figured she could send something small, but nice to Lisa. She took a picture of herself standing in front of the mirror, making a peace sign with her right hand and with a wink. She then sent the image with the caption ¡°Not dead yet¡±.


    Genesis ¡°returned¡± once she was halfway to Shaquia¡¯s office, having given her ample time for a shower.


    ¡°Welcome back.¡± She told him, beelining towards Shaquia¡¯s office. Outside, the snake of True Frost was leaning on the wall, arms crossed, seemingly looking at nothing.


    ¡°Hey!¡± She said to him with a smile.


    ¡°Hey.¡± He slightly lifted his head before lowering it again. ¡°Go in.¡±


    Somewhat concerned for the snake, she nodded, opened the door to Shaquia¡¯s office, and waved. Only after that, did she properly notice the person in the lab coat next to the lynx, holding papers. Still feeling like she¡¯s on top of the world, Solomon sat down on a chair prepared for her.


    ¡°We analysed the acids you tested on.¡± Lab coat began to say, flipping through the pages. ¡°We¡¯ve come to a discovery about your magic and what exactly it draws power from.¡±


    ¡°Which is?¡± Solomon asked. Even though she didn¡¯t show it too much, she was terribly curious about her power.


    ¡°Sulphur.¡± Shaquia answered. ¡°We¡¯re not sure why that is, however, so we thought we could ask Genesis about it.¡±


    Hearing his name definitely seemed to catch his attention.


    ¡°Alright!¡± Solomon took out her notebook and let him write, although what little he did write didn¡¯t exactly encourage her.


    ¡°I do not know why that is.¡± She read out loud, much to the chagrin of the two System members present.


    ¡°Nothing?¡± Shaquia pushed with a questioning look. ¡°Absolutely nothing? Maybe it¡¯s what you used to make the magic?¡±


    At that, Solomon felt a sensation she hadn¡¯t had the displeasure of going through in the past couple of months to the extent that she did then: hatred.


    ¡°How I made the magic is my secret alone.¡± She read out loud, although in a tone that differed from what Genesis would have liked. ¡°I would not trust even Solomon with that, let alone you. My magic can infuse people, can you even imagine what would happen if someone tried to infuse an acid-infused person?¡±


    ¡°Okay, we get it.¡± Shaquia tapped the desk with both her hands. ¡°It¡¯s still something new at least.¡±


    ¡°Sulphur¡­¡± Solomon wondered, trying to make sense of it without much success.


    ¡°We do have some good news regarding the power source.¡± Lab coat remarked and showed Solomon an image depicting a public pool.


    ¡°And this helps¡­ How?¡± She raised an eyebrow, trying to ignore the ligering hate from Genesis. As far as she knew, he could have just voiced his opinion a little more profoundly there. The mere fact that he didn¡¯t made her trust him just that much more.


    ¡°Sulphur springs!¡± Lab coat announced. ¡°If we could get some of that much more easily acquirable water, we could make testing not only safer, but possibly more pleasant for you.¡±


    ¡°We¡¯ll need to think about that, still.¡± Shaquia stated, shooting a glance at lab coat. ¡°If it only has trace amounts of sulphur, it may not be as effective.¡±Stolen content warning: this content belongs on Royal Road. Report any occurrences.


    Solomon certainly didn¡¯t mind the idea of having a nice bath at such a place, too bad she couldn¡¯t just visit normally. Whatever paint she would apply would most likely fade away from the empowered magic. As for wearing gloves, people would just find that weird. Or worse, suspicious.


    ¡°That¡¯ll be our next course of action.¡± Said Shaquia. ¡°Likely after your two weeks are over.¡±


    ¡°Sounds good!¡± Solomon said with a delighted look and a considerably less angry Genesis.


    ¡°For the time being, stay out of trouble.¡± The lynx suggested with a slight smile. ¡°We¡¯ll get back to you on that later.¡±


    ¡°We¡¯ll try.¡± Solomon stood up and with one more nod, sulphur fresh on her mind, she left the office wondering how long this ¡°charge¡± she received would last.


    Outside, the snake still waited by the wall. For what, she could not tell.


    ¡°You¡¯d think they¡¯d put a bench here, eh?¡± She remarked, and went to stand next to him, still far enough away not to intrude upon his personal space. He didn¡¯t pay her any mind. ¡°Not one to talk, I see.¡± She would have left him alone if he were just any other snake, but the fact that he was True Frost, as hypocritical as it may be, made her more curious.


    ¡°What¡¯s your name?¡± She asked. That simple question actually made him turn his head towards her. ¡°I don¡¯t want to be here¡± was practically written on him.


    ¡°Sssamuel.¡± The snake answered. Solomon hadn¡¯t talked to many snakes before, but she could tell that their signature way of speech was present for him: most times elongated ¡®s¡¯ and ¡®sh¡¯ sounds, complete with the forked tongue sticking out.


    ¡°I¡¯m Solomon.¡± She said, sensing curiosity from Genesis. She reached out one arm for a handshake.


    ¡°Well met, Sssolomon.¡± He reluctantly shook hands with the feline, she could feel the cold at his touch. She wondered how he took it all, reptiles typically preferred warmer climates rather than the often cool, even chilly weather of the UK. ¡°Maybe he actually likes that more because of the magic?¡±


    ¡°Catherine sssaid that name many timesss.¡± Samuel stated, putting his hands in his pockets. ¡°Ssshe doesssn¡¯t like you very much.¡±


    ¡°Wait, really? Why?¡± Solomon took a step back, way more interested in what he had to say all of a sudden. Genesis wasn¡¯t too surprised given their first encounter with the opossum.


    ¡°Ssshe didn¡¯t get to dissscover your power. And with you coming from Franccce, ssshe felt that it was owed to her.¡± He explained, causing Solomon to feel quite indignant at the new info. ¡°You may want to ssstay away from her.¡±


    ¡°Not where I thought this conversation would go, but thanks.¡± Solomon crossed her arms. ¡°One less reason to like her.¡±


    Shaquia¡¯s voice then came through the radio. ¡°General, report for the arranged occasion.¡±


    ¡°10-4.¡± Said the deep voice of the lion.


    ¡°I would prefer that you used words. Things here are complicated enough as is.¡± The lynx responded, which was met with a staticky chuckle from the lion.


    ¡°Anyway¡­¡± Solomon began to say. ¡°What¡¯s your story?¡±


    While still quite dire, Samuel¡¯s lifted mood apparently went right back down at that question. He lowered his head and exhaled softly, his breath visible, a chilly mist.


    ¡°Sorry!¡± The cat apologised immediately after. ¡°I didn¡¯t know it was¡­¡±


    ¡°No, it¡¯sss fine.¡± Samuel held out one hand, gesturing to her to stop. ¡°About time I faccced that day again.¡±


    Solomon felt guilty just for asking, but her companion seemed interested. He may have influenced her there a little, but she couldn¡¯t deny that she wanted to hear what he had to say. After all¡­ She had a lot to say just a couple months ago. With a nod, she let him continue.


    ¡°All of my family hasss green ssscalesss. I came out from the egg with thisss blue colour, you can imagine the reactionsss.¡± He rolled up his right sleeve, as if to show Solomon more of his pale blue tint. ¡°I lived in a sssmall town, away from people. My parentsss loved me all the sssame, but I could tell they didn¡¯t want people to sssee me.¡± As he spoke, more of the chilly mist left his mouth, seemingly against his will. ¡°And the worssst, ssschool.¡±


    ¡°Kids can definitely be cruel¡­¡± Solomon remarked, pitying the snake. Rather than any sympathetic emotion, Genesis felt bored by his complaints. ¡°Seriously?¡±


    ¡°You have no idea.¡± Samuel went on. ¡°But one day, it all ended. I wasss fifteen, fressshly out from classss. I wasss ready to leave, go home, not deal with people anymore, you know?¡± He turned his head to properly face Solomon for the first time in his retelling, lowering it back down soon after. ¡°Thisss one guy¡­ He jussst couldn¡¯t keep hisss mouth ssshut.¡±


    Solomon felt a creeping chill, but not because of any emotion, she started getting physically cold. She chose not to mention it and let him go on.


    ¡°That bassstard dog¡­ He implied that my mother cheated and that¡¯sss why I was thisss weird ssshade of blue!¡± He continued, his voice getting ever so slightly louder.


    Solomon put her arms around herself and took a step back. Samuel picked up on that immediately.


    ¡°Sssorry¡­¡± Right as he said that, the cold was gone.


    ¡°It¡¯s alright, I¡¯m listening.¡± She put on a smile and stepped right back next to him.


    ¡°Ssso¡­¡± He cleared his throat. ¡°I couldn¡¯t help it. I went for it and punched him right in the faccce and he sssmashed into the railing!¡± He curled his fingers into a fist. ¡°After all that time and ridicule¡­ It felt ssso¡­ Cathartic, you know? But then I looked around and¡­¡± He paused and rubbed his eyes with one hand. ¡°They were ssshivering. Everyone around me were ssso visssibly cold.¡± He explained with great remorse in his voice. ¡°And him¡­ He fell to the floor and wasssn¡¯t moving. I went to check if he wasss okay, and when I turned him around¡­ Oh God¡­¡± He covered his face with his hands and sniffled.


    Solomon wasn¡¯t sure what to say in order to make him feel even a little better, if there was even something she could have. This was no time for words, but for something more universal. She put one hand on his shoulder, both to comfort him and as if to tell him that she¡¯s not afraid of him. He moved his hands down and was met with an understanding smile of the feline, trying to tell him that it was okay.


    ¡°Hisss faccce¡­¡± He continued after collecting himself. ¡°Have you ever ssseen sssomeone hit the head of a ssstatue with a sssledgehammer?¡±


    Solomon recoiled slightly, but kept close to him out of solidarity.


    ¡°The policcce, ambulanccce, firemen¡­ They were all called. Not that they could do much to sssave him. I¡­ I hated him, but I didn¡¯t want to kill him!¡±


    Solomon let go and stepped back. She then spread her arms and beckoned him for a hug, which she was sure he needed. Her intuition proved correct, as Samuel reluctantly embraced her, tightening the embrace as he grew more comfortable. His frost magic didn¡¯t help his lack of body heat, he felt downright freezing to the touch, even through all the clothing. Despite that, she didn¡¯t let go and let him enjoy some much-needed contact with another person, even if it was growing slightly painful. While Genesis was a little touched by the story in the end, he was practically yelling at her to stop, for her sake.


    After a couple more seconds, he finally let go, leaving hoarfrost-like ice on her dress.


    ¡°Thanksss¡­¡± He said with a faint smile. ¡°I¡­ I needed that.¡±


    ¡°They say you could always use more hugs!¡± She said as she wiped the frost off of her dress. ¡°I¡¯m always here to listen, Samuel. When I¡¯m here, that is!¡± She winked with a friendly look.


    The snake looked terribly grateful just from her little gesture. She understood how he felt all too much.


    ¡°Thank you, Sssolomon. From the bottom of my heart, thank you.¡± He sighed and got ready to finish up his story. ¡°The night the policcce took me, thessse people arrived. They promisssed me sssafety and much more, a bit hazy on the detailsss¡­ But I went with them. For five yearsss, I wasss hidden away from the world on the ordersss of your previousss leader.¡±


    ¡°Alright everyone, I¡¯m ready for the meeting!¡± Catherine¡¯s voice, this time less grating, came through the radio abruptly.


    ¡°Change of plans, General.¡± Shaquia announced. ¡°Those who it may concern, gather in room 26 on the second floor ASAP.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll tell you the ressst later.¡± Samuel said after the announcement.


    ¡°Sounds good!¡± Solomon smiled. Right after that, Shaquia¡¯s office door opened.


    ¡°Alright, at least you two are close by.¡± The lynx remarked. ¡°Let¡¯s go.¡±


    Solomon and Samuel obliged and followed her. In the elevator, Solomon checked her phone to see a message from Lisa: an image of her, Yaroslav, and a female bear in an old-fashioned home, all looking quite happy. The text along with it read ¡°Same¡±.


    The three of them were first to arrive at the room. There was a large round table in the middle surrounded by chairs, which reminded Solomon of Bird¡¯s Eye a little too much for her liking. In the far end of the room were half a dozen screens, all turned off. Below them, a control panel.


    ¡°I guess ASAP has lost its meaning nowadays¡­¡± Shaquia remarked and sat down at one of the chairs, Solomon to her right, Samuel to the cat¡¯s.


    ¡°But it¡¯sss jussst passst 5?¡± Said Samuel.


    Not a minute later, Benedict, carrying a mug, and Andreas stepped through the doorway, followed by Sheila.


    ¡°See, complaining helps!¡± Solomon exclaimed, Genesis didn¡¯t seem to like it. ¡°What¡¯s with you today?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s precisely why Catherine¡¯s in the position she¡¯s in.¡± The lynx retorted.


    ¡°So we¡¯re just waiting for Cath now, right?¡± The raccoon asked, taking a seat along with the rest.


    ¡°Looks like it.¡± Sheila shrugged.


    ¡°You left the newcomers alone in the training hall, Sheila?¡± Shaquia shot an accusatory glance at the lioness.


    ¡°No.¡± She frowned. ¡°They¡¯re with General.¡±


    The lynx sighed deeply and buried her face in her palms.


    ¡°What? I know him well, they¡¯re in good hands!¡± Sheila argued.


    Solomon and Samuel briefly exchanged glances at the scene. ¡°I mean¡­ I guess Sheila¡¯s right?¡±


    Then, the sound of someone¡¯s voice came through Shaquia¡¯s radio. ¡°Incoming message from Grayson.¡± The feminine voice said, one which Solomon had heard before, but couldn¡¯t quite pinpoint.


    ¡°Right before the meeting. Your timing is still impeccable, Grayson.¡± Shaquia remarked, seemingly relieved. She stood up and went to the control panel in the room. ¡°Forward it to room 26.¡± She flicked a switch and a screen lit up, text on it reading ¡°Standing by.¡± It then cut to a straight line which shifted to reflect radio frequency. Nothing but static at first.


    ¡°Come on¡­¡± Grayson¡¯s hardly audibly, staticky voice came through from the audio recording. ¡°...or¡­age¡­¡± His voice wasn¡¯t quite intelligible, but it did sound distressed. Solomon expected nothing good from the message as a result. She glanced at Samuel, who really just looked more confused than anything.


    ¡°Can¡¯t make out anything like this, Vanessa.¡± The lynx complained.


    ¡°On it.¡± Said Vanessa.


    The static continued as Shaquia patiently waited in front of the screen, standing with her arms crossed. An edited version came through after Vanessa and the info department did some decrypting magic.


    Grayson then spoke, loud and clear.


    ¡°Luxor took over a village!¡± His voice came through, causing Benedict to choke on his drink. That was, however, all he said before it went back to static.


    ¡°No¡­ No!¡± Shaquia uttered, despair palpable in her voice, putting her hands on the edge of the panel to support herself.


    ¡°We¡¯re working on the rest, but this¡­¡± Vanessa said, sounding much less relaxed. ¡°This couldn¡¯t wait.¡±


    Solomon felt like she could cry, cry a river at the news, as well as Grayson¡¯s mostly failed attempts at communication. She felt her eyes water as Andreas hit Benedict¡¯s back to try and ease his choking. Her hands tingled with Genesis¡¯ panic, but she didn¡¯t want to let him take over just yet.


    ¡°...days¡­wasn¡¯t¡­called¡­left¡­¡±


    Sheila got up and walked up to the lynx, the static steadily continuing. The lioness whispered something to her, only to be shooed away.


    ¡°...ved..¡­people..light¡­.streets¡­¡±


    The look of horror on Samuel told Solomon that even in France, the members were well informed of the Lightborn and their past actions.


    ¡°...bad¡­he¡­..left..day!...hurry¡­¡±


    Shaquia shook her head, staring at the frequency on the screen. She turned around, her expression was that of defeat as she kept her head down.


    Crack.


    The recording ended. Shaquia played it on a loop, trying to make out what Grayson could possibly have said.


    ¡°This can¡¯t be right!¡± Sheila complained. ¡°How many people live in a village? A few hundred?¡±


    ¡°Too many to just agree with him, sire.¡± Andreas said calmly, which Solomon envied greatly.


    One more, properly patched up recording came though, which Shaquia immediately put on.


    ¡°Luxor took over a village!¡± The goat repeated and took a deep breath. ¡°Three days ago, it was all good, he still wasn¡¯t doing anything. In the morning, he called us all to the hall where he announced that¡­ We need to expand?¡± He spoke like he questioned what he had heard. ¡°And then we left, just like that, no further explanation other than his insane ramblings!¡±


    That was it. The confirmation that Solomon dreaded to be true. She hoped, prayed, that somehow, it wasn¡¯t, but the chances of that were less than slim.


    ¡°We arrived at a village the same day, and he just announced that he was a god, like the people would believe it!¡± Grayson went on, trying to keep calm and mostly quiet. ¡°Of course, they didn¡¯t. Then he healed an old guy who lost a leg, now THAT got some to be on his side. He then healed every single person who was there and shined¡­ Shone? Whatever! He did that thing he does every day¡­ I hate to admit it, but I blanked out on what happened during it. But after that¡­ They had no reason to doubt him, I guess? They submitted to him, spent all of yesterday cleaning the streets!¡±


    Solomon saw Shaquia¡¯s hands begin to tremble, picking up in intensity with every word he said. She then curled them into fists, causing steam to leak from her upper body.


    ¡°And guess what! As if it wasn¡¯t bad enough, there was this one tech-savvy guy visiting relatives or whatever. On Luxor¡¯s request for Bright Ones, he told him that he had a buddy who knew one! Long story short, Haemon and Rufina left and have been on their way to retrieve the person since yesterday!¡±


    Shaquia slammed her fist against the edge of the control panel.


    ¡°Thing is¡­¡± Grayson chuckled quietly. ¡°I nicked the coordinates! Sending them with this message! Oh, please let it go through¡­  Hurry, they have a day¡¯s head start on us!¡±


    The lynx turned around and rushed to the table before Grayson¡¯s voice came through one last time before the end of the recording.


    ¡°I¡¯ve been trying to get a message through since two days ago. They upped their security though, so getting away from them wasn¡¯t easy. P.S.: Sal, if you¡¯re listening, the sunlight receptors on this thing fucking suck!¡±


    Solomon was left speechless at the news. An entire village¡­ She really would have preferred to know how many people the fox ruled over, but given Grayson¡¯s situation, she didn¡¯t blame him for keeping it brief.


    She then noticed that Shaquia, who looked like she had aged 20 years in the past few minutes, was looking past everyone in the room.


    ¡°Catherine, we need to-¡± She began to say, only to be cut off by the opossum standing in the doorway.


    ¡°Meeting postponed. We¡¯ll deal with this first.¡± She stated. She clearly wasn¡¯t happy about it, but even she saw how dire the situation had become. Shaquia seemed like she could hardly believe how cooperative the opossum was being.


    ¡°Vanessa!¡± The lynx spoke into the radio. ¡°I need you to look into the location Grayson sent!¡±


    ¡°Way ahead of you.¡± Vanessa¡¯s voice came through, anticipation rose in the lynx¡¯s eyes as the rest waited for orders.


    ¡°You could send me and Andreas!¡± Sheila suggested, entirely too confident. ¡°We¡¯ll make short work of the little bats! I could use a little excursion.¡±


    Shaquia held up a finger in her direction.


    ¡°Juuust a moment.¡± Vanessa said as Shaquia paced around the table.


    ¡°Or you know¡­¡± The lioness went on more quietly and looked at Samuel. ¡°This could be some decent field training.¡±


    The snake shrugged with a disinterested look.


    ¡°Aaand it¡¯s located!¡± Vanessa spoke again, causing Shaquia to stop in her tracks.


    ¡°So?¡± The lynx urged her to tell.


    ¡°Russia.¡± She spoke with much less enthusiasm. Solomon was then startled by Shaquia slamming her fist on the table.


    ¡°God damnit!¡± She yelled out as the others present exchanged looks of defeat.


    ¡°If I may¡­¡± Solomon attempted to speak up.


    ¡°Anything specific? Anything else? Are you sure?¡± Shaquia ignored her, steam steadily rising from her body.


    ¡°His name is Alexei Vasilyev and we have his last known location.¡± Said Vanessa. ¡°Far away from the few people we have in Russia. Closest we have there is Alexander.¡±


    ¡°Maybe¡­ Maybe they haven¡¯t gotten too far yet?¡± Shaquia guessed, visibly frustrated. ¡°What do they even use to get around? It can¡¯t just be that van!¡± She said more to herself.


    ¡°I¡¯m telling you, send the three of us!¡± Sheila stood up, eager. ¡°They don¡¯t have fire or frost! We¡¯ll go all out on them, we¡¯ll get that-¡±


    ¡°For the love of God, Sheila, shut up!¡± Shaquia snapped at the lioness. With a surprised and slightly scared look, she sat back down.


    ¡°It would be best if we somehow got to him before they did.¡± Vanessa raised the point. ¡°But let¡¯s be honest, that¡¯s not happening. Even if Alexander could make it, he¡¯d stand no chance against Rufina.¡±


    ¡°Damnit! Is there nothing we can do?!¡± The lynx said as she looked around the room.


    ¡°We could still try it?¡± Benedict suggested. ¡°It¡¯s the best we have.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not sending Alexander to his death!¡± Shaquia finally sat back down and rubbed her temples.


    Sheila opened her mouth to speak, but didn¡¯t say anything.


    ¡°My, I didn¡¯t think you¡¯d accept defeat so fast.¡± Catherine walked up to the lynx and put her hands on her shoulders.


    ¡°Cath, this really isn¡¯t the time.¡± Shaquia complained.


    ¡°I just think there¡¯s an option you aren¡¯t seeing.¡± The opossum then gently grabbed Shaquia¡¯s head and slowly rotated it, stopping her gaze at Solomon. Genesis immediately didn¡¯t like wherever that was going. ¡°In this line of work, you have to get creative, darling.¡±


    ¡°No!¡± Shaquia slapped away Catherine¡¯s hands. ¡°I promised I would never¡­¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s more important? A simple promise or keeping a Bright One safe?¡± The opossum asked with a deathly serious glance. Shaquia gritted her teeth and made her shaking hands into fists, steam once again rose from her.


    ¡°Uhm¡­¡± Solomon began to say, starting to agree with Genesis.


    ¡°Solomon.¡± Shaquia said in a calm voice, keeping her head down. She didn¡¯t look at the cat. ¡°I have an enormous favour to ask.¡±

 Chapter 34 - Unwilling Participant

    Lisa was standing outside Yaroslav¡¯s ordinary small old house, having a puff on her pipe as she contemplated the trip itself. Sure, she was having a decent enough time, but it could definitely have been better. ¡°Just look at the bright side¡­¡±


    Yaroslav himself proved to be an excellent guide in a country whose language Lisa didn¡¯t speak whatsoever, save for a couple words. She knew just how much she needed him when she tried pulling open a door that, to others, very clearly said push. At least she got herself a new hat, one to warm her ears when it was needed. The next day, she would finally get to see that museum she was all too excited for! ¡°Would still be better with Rox¡­¡± Sure, she was happy to finally be able to do that, but it just didn¡¯t feel the same.


    Her thinking was interrupted by the opening of the surprisingly ornate front door.


    ¡°Hey, what¡¯s got you so glum?¡± The bear asked with his usual cheerful and booming attitude. Lisa had to admit, he did make her feel better most of the time.


    ¡°I was just thinkin¡¯.¡± She put on a smile and made a slight shrug, only to be met with a chuckle.


    ¡°Oh, that can be dangerous!¡± He remarked and patted her on the back.


    ¡°And that¡¯s because?¡± She raised an eyebrow.


    ¡°Whatever it is, don¡¯t overthink it, friend.¡± He said, softer. ¡°Saying that is easy, but give it a try.¡±


    Overthink... No, she wasn¡¯t overthinking! Her concerns for Solomon were completely justified! Even if her feline girlfriend can protect herself, Lisa would much rather do that for her after what she went through. To just be around her and keep her safe from whatever dangers may lurk, it was as simple as that! She would cut down whatever assailant she needed to, just so her girlfriend didn¡¯t need to get her corrosive hands dirty! And then to just talk to her and hold her oh so closely at the end of the day, that was enough to make any of her days so much better.


    ¡°Yeah, yeah.¡± She uttered and blew little puffs of smoke.


    ¡°You miss her already, don¡¯t you?¡± He asked bluntly.


    ¡°That¡¯s NOT where I was going, you know that!¡± Lisa casually retorted.


    But miss her, she did. Her cute little face, her lessened anxiety when she was around Lisa, her soft fur¡­ She wouldn¡¯t admit it, but she missed her dearly. Or rather, she was upset she couldn¡¯t be there with her due to the decisions of someone else.


    ¡°You¡¯ve been together for how long? A couple months?¡± The bear asked. ¡°I¡¯m happy for you, but that isn¡¯t a long time.¡±


    ¡°Oi, I still love her!¡± The wolf exclaimed. ¡°It ain¡¯t too much time, yeah, but I just know she¡¯s different. I¡¯ve gotten to know a lot about her!¡± She said, looking from side to side awkwardly.


    ¡°It took me a while to find my wife too.¡± He let out a soft chuckle. ¡°Oh, what a day that was¡­¡± Upon seeing Lisa¡¯s furrowed brows, his tone became more serious. ¡°I¡¯ve seen a friend so madly in love before, it reminded me of you.¡±


    ¡°And why is that a problem?¡± She inquired, admittedly getting a little fed up.


    ¡°It isn¡¯t. I just don¡¯t want to see a friend go through a heartbreak that bad again.¡± He explained with compassion in his tone.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, Yaro.¡± She smiled. ¡°That won¡¯t happen. Besides¡­ I don¡¯t think I could find another ¡°one¡± if things don¡¯t work out. I¡¯m turnin¡¯ 34 next month, I¡¯m way past my prime.¡±


    ¡°I married at 38.¡± He remarked with a laugh. ¡°There¡¯s always time, my friend.¡±


    ¡°Okay¡­¡± Lisa paused. ¡°I have my reasons, alright? Like this whole magic thing¡­ It would be a pain in the arse to explain to a regular person, yeah? It has to be kept a secret, I recognise that.¡±


    ¡°My wife knows about mine.¡± The bear shrugged, returning to his jovial voice. ¡°She never thinks to share it.¡±


    ¡°Well ain¡¯t that great for ya?¡± She said, putting away her pipe. ¡°At the end of the day, I just want it to work out, finally. I don¡¯t want to fuck it all up somehow, y¡¯know?¡±


    ¡°I do know.¡± He put a hand on her shoulder and nodded. ¡°One mistake, one argument, not the end. But if you see that it¡¯s getting bad¡­ Don¡¯t be afraid to leave. I don¡¯t wish that on you, oh, God no! But keep it in mind.¡±


    Lisa knew, she just knew that it wouldn¡¯t have to come to that. There were plenty of things that did make her quite livid at times, she didn¡¯t want her girlfriend to be one of them.


    ¡°Would be pretty sweet to get to know her parents, I guess.¡± She changed the topic. ¡°Far as she¡¯s told me, they¡¯re nice.¡±


    ¡°Why don¡¯t you introduce her to your parents? Or your old friends?¡± He suggested.


    ¡°Yeah¡­ Not sure about that, mate.¡± She chuckled, but it wasn¡¯t genuine. ¡°Ain¡¯t seen dad since I was five.¡±


    ¡°Oh, I¡¯m sorry¡­¡± He lowered his head slightly with a look of sympathy.


    ¡°Nah, he ain¡¯t dead¡­ I think. He kinda just disappeared? Left mum and I pretty fuckin¡¯ devastated, to be frank.¡±


    Yaroslav didn¡¯t say anything in response, he merely patted her shoulder.


    ¡°Yeah¡­ Then there¡¯s mum.¡± Lisa went on, moody. ¡°She¡¯s always been a good mum, all things considered, but she¡¯s a bit too old-fashioned.¡±


    ¡°Reminds me of your taste sometimes.¡± He argued, albeit more jokingly.


    ¡°I s¡¯pose that¡¯s fair.¡± She shrugged and took out her phone. She opened that last image Solomon had sent her to just look at it for a few moments.


    ¡°That pipe didn¡¯t help calm you down, huh?¡± The bear chuckled.


    ¡°Bruv, let me tell ya¡­¡± Lisa put her phone away and looked him in the eye. ¡°You don¡¯t smoke a pipe ¡®cause you need a hit.¡± She smirked. ¡°You do it ¡®cause you enjoy it.¡±


    ¡°I was just going to suggest taking off the edge, so to say.¡± He laughed. ¡°The boys will be at the bar tonight, some of them speak English. You look like you could use a drink, friend.¡±


    ¡°I ain¡¯t an alcoholic.¡± Lisa faked a frown, although the offer seemed pretty tempting.


    ¡°I know you aren¡¯t.¡± He reassured her. ¡°Drinking sometimes doesn¡¯t make you one.¡±


    ¡°Got me there.¡± She smirked. ¡°I guess you¡¯re right¡­ But you¡¯re drivin¡¯, yeah?¡±


    ¡°Naturally.¡±


    Once the sun began to set, they headed off for the local bar. As Lisa walked in, the smell of alcohol hit her sensitive nose immediately. Looking ahead, she saw people sitting at the tables, almost all of them full. Soft Russian music was playing from a jukebox, which of course, she didn¡¯t understand a word of. She liked the tune though.


    Yaroslav shouted in Russian at a group of bears at a table, all wearing various streetwear, some more well-worn than others. If it wasn¡¯t for his friendly smile, she would have thought he was trying to start a fight. They spoke back in a similar manner before she approached them with Yaroslav. She couldn¡¯t help but notice that they took a glance at her before looking back to him.


    Yaroslav then put an arm around her shoulder, whatever he said after included her name while he shook his head. A brown bear, about Yaroslav¡¯s age, made an understanding nod and reached out for a handshake.


    ¡°Hello, Lisa!¡± He said with a similarly friendly look.


    ¡°Why hello there.¡± She smirked as they shook hands. ¡°Yeah, sorry, I don¡¯t speak a lick of Russian.¡±


    ¡°No problem! Just don¡¯t try talking to Nikolai.¡± He gestured to an older-looking black bear, the rest giving her welcoming looks. ¡°I¡¯m Lev, good to meet you!¡±The genuine version of this novel can be found on another site. Support the author by reading it there.


    ¡°Pretty bloody splendid indeed.¡± She remarked as she sat down along with Yaroslav and Lev, then proceeded to shake hands with the rest of the group, a total of five male bears and a female.


    ¡°Nice hat!¡± The female bear remarked. She had just said her name, but Lisa couldn¡¯t quite remember so many so fast.


    ¡°¡®Preciate it!¡± She slightly lifted her new hat. ¡°A good bit colder ¡®ere, have to say.¡±


    The rest of the people just chuckled at that.


    Nikolai then asked something which Lisa couldn¡¯t understand.


    ¡°Old dog Niko wants to know more about you.¡± Yaroslav translated.


    ¡°Well¡­¡± The wolf began to say. ¡°Just your run of the mill investigator from Britain. Yaro¡¯s a colleague and a good friend!¡± She patted said friend¡¯s back.


    ¡°Yaro?¡± One of the bears whose name Lisa couldn¡¯t remember questioned. ¡°I thought only your wife called you that!¡±


    ¡°Wait, really?¡± Lisa quickly turned to look at Yaroslav.


    ¡°I don¡¯t mind, it¡¯s not like she would know that.¡± He chuckled with a shrug.


    ¡°So¡­¡± Lev said with a sly smile. ¡°What can I get you?¡±


    ¡°I ain¡¯t sure, whatcha got?¡± She blurted out. Although she would normally be hesitant to drink with strangers, having Yaroslav at her side certainly made her more comfortable.


    ¡°How about a game then?¡± Said a polar bear with a deep voice, who Lisa was pretty sure was called Igor, and took out a matchbox. ¡°We put these on the table, you either take one or two.¡± He took the matches out of the box and haphazardly put them on the table. ¡°If you end up taking the last match, you lose. Loser pays the round!¡± He then arranged them so that they wouldn¡¯t just be in a pile and took two matches as the others cheered. ¡°I go first.¡±


    Lisa couldn¡¯t help but chuckle herself.


    ¡°Really, mate?¡± She crossed her arms and sneered at him with disappointment. ¡°You thought I wouldn¡¯t know this game? C¡¯mon, oldest trick in the book, it¡¯s one you¡¯ll always win.¡±


    Igor took on a begrudging look before laughing, the little group cheered for Lisa this time.


    ¡°Not bad.¡± He put the matches back in the box.


    ¡°You want a real game?¡± Lisa said as she got an idea most devious. ¡°¡®Ere''s a game the lads and I play back in Britain.¡± She reached inside her coat, took out her lighter and flicked it on. ¡°We each put a hand over the fire, whoever lasts longer wins!¡± She said with a wicked grin. ¡°Just be careful, don¡¯t want to get burned too much.¡± Sure, it wasn¡¯t fair at all due to the little help she had received from Solomon, but unlike an old bar game, what she was about to do would at least look impressive.


    The female bear and Yaroslav seemed concerned by her suggestion for a game, but the rest seemed quite eager to challenge her.


    ¡°Nikolai!¡± Igor said as he turned towards him and after what he said, received a lighter.


    ¡°Ready?¡± Lisa asked with one hand over her closed lighter.


    ¡°Oh yes, I¡¯m ready.¡± Igor responded.


    The female bear then started speaking, only for Lev to interrupt her.


    ¡°I count to three, you light it up!¡± He said and was met with nods. ¡°One¡­ Two¡­¡±


    Lisa looked the polar bear in the eye, both ready to see the other lose. He wanted to play a rigged game, so Lisa was going to show him a proper one.


    ¡°Three!¡± Lev uttered, both lighters lit up.


    They firmly held their hands above the small flame, far enough so that the fur didn¡¯t catch fire, but the heat was still felt. Of course, Lisa felt absolutely nothing. Igor, on the other hand¡­ He was gritting his teeth after a couple of seconds. He pulled away soon after and shook his hand vigorously.


    ¡°Put some cold water on it.¡± Lisa suggested with more than a little sass.


    ¡°I don¡¯t remember seeing a game like that back there.¡± Yaroslav remarked with a chuckle.


    ¡°You ain¡¯t seen the proper after-hours.¡± She replied and closed her lighter.


    Nikolai then stood up and spoke.


    ¡°Oh, he wants to play too!¡± Lev informed Lisa. ¡°Davay, Niko!¡±


    The black bear then sat opposite Lisa and held out a hand, much bigger than hers.


    ¡°This should be interesting!¡± Said Yaroslav. ¡°Niko has some thick skin.¡±


    ¡°Noted.¡± Lisa smirked and locked eyes with Nikolai.


    ¡°One¡­ Two¡­ Three!¡± Lev counted, the lighters were lit.


    Lisa had to give the bear some credit, he could hold his hand over a flame like that for over ten seconds before inevitably pulling away before her. It was met with looks of awe and surprise from the people present.


    ¡°She¡¯s cheating!¡± Igor accused, Lisa then held out her lighter for him to inspect it. He took it, flicked it on, and pulled his hand away from it all the same. Finally admitting defeat, he handed her lighter back. He then stood up and left the table.


    ¡°Ain¡¯t something you want to get good at, to be fair.¡± Lisa remarked, putting away the lighter.


    ¡°What¡¯s your secret?¡± Lev asked excitedly while Igor got up from the table.


    ¡°Like I would share.¡± She shot back, she could only imagine what they would do if they learned what her secret really was. She felt a little bit guilty for playing such a game with them¡­ But not too much.


    ¡°Yaro, what¡¯s her secret?¡± Lev then asked.


    ¡°I don¡¯t know either!¡± He shrugged, looking both impressed and entertained. ¡°I didn¡¯t even know she could do that!¡±


    ¡°Okay Lisa, you earned this one.¡± Igor returned with a tray that had eight shot glasses on it. He put it down on the table and handed Lisa hers as the others took one each as well, except Yaroslav.


    ¡°Why thank you!¡± She said and lifted the shot glass along the others while they looked on in anticipation. ¡°Cheers, mates!¡± Figuring that she could handle drinks well, she swallowed it in one gulp, like the others. She then immediately regretted it, feeling like her throat was on fire. She tried to shrug it off, but she couldn¡¯t help coughing and clutching her neck. As she searched for something to wash it down with, the others laughed.


    ¡°Not the burn you can handle?¡± Igor said with a viciously smug smile.


    ¡°Mate¡­¡± Lisa began to say after drinking some soda. ¡°How strong is this exactly?¡±


    ¡°45.¡± Igor told her, the laughing around her unwavering.


    ¡°Fuckin¡¯ hell, mates!¡± She blurted out, only to be met with more chuckles, all laughing with her. ¡°You guys know how to party, eh?¡±


    ¡°You haven¡¯t seen that yet!¡± Said Yaroslav, holding out one arm to reject a drink Igor offered.


    ¡°Come on, Sokolov.¡± He tilted his head, gesturing to join in.


    ¡°I¡¯m driving, sorry.¡± He replied and was met with a shrug as Igor took the last one for himself, which started a conversation between Lev and the female bear.


    Lisa then felt her phone vibrate. She took it out from his pocket and recognised the number as Shaquia¡¯s. With vivid, but short-lived anger, she declined the call.


    ¡°So you guys were like, Yaro¡¯s colleagues, yeah?¡± She asked as she was putting her phone in her pocket, only for it to ring once again. Shaquia once more. Declined.


    ¡°Yaro and I have been friends for all our life!¡± Lev said and took another shot without any problem. ¡°If you want a building removed, call us!¡±


    Lisa was about to ask about how that line of work was when her phone rang again.


    ¡°Oh for fuck¡¯s sake!¡± She complained as she took out her phone to put it on mute. She then saw that this time, Solomon was calling her.


    ¡°Popular tonight?¡± Yaroslav asked jokingly.


    ¡°Sorry lads, have to take this one.¡± She informed them as she stood up. They understood just fine and let her go outside the bar. There, she accepted the call.


    ¡°Everything alright, Roxy? You never call!¡± She worriedly said into her phone.


    ¡°Lisa, I¡¯m really sorry to have to ask you, but we need your help.¡± Said Shaquia¡¯s voice, which practically enraged Lisa.


    ¡°Oh, you massive bitch!¡± She said, getting ready to hang up.


    ¡°Please, this is important!¡± The lynx begged in a desperate tone. ¡°We¡¯ll compensate you in any way, just please, you have to help us!¡±


    Help them Lisa certainly didn¡¯t want, not after what they pulled last time. She didn¡¯t care that Solomon was basically working for them, Lisa owed them nothing. There was something however, a little sense of curiosity, she couldn¡¯t help but wonder what could be so bad that they¡¯d want her to solve it. Not to mention compensation¡­


    ¡°What is it about?¡± She asked, her patience rapidly dwindling.


    ¡°I know I have no right to ask you this, but we need you to recover a Bright One before the Lightborn get to him, we don¡¯t have the necessary forces in Russia. Or if not, distract the enemy until we get our forces there. I¡¯ll send you the location, you, Yaroslav, and one of our Mystic Ones will go and do your best.¡± She explained the plan.


    ¡°You know what that sounds like, mate?¡± Lisa began to say, softer at first. ¡°Something that shouldn¡¯t be my bloody problem! You want us to do your dirty work now? Eat my entire arse, Shaquia, I ain¡¯t gonna do anything for ya just because you were too busy faffing around for two goddamn months!¡±


    Saying that felt ever so cathartic. To finally tell off the head of the organisation she despised so much, it was simply beautiful. She couldn¡¯t wait for her to hang up.


    ¡°Listen, I¡¯m sorry, I hate having to do this and I could never forgive myself if anything happened to you¡­¡± Along with her defeated voice, a sound akin to that of a valve releasing pressure was heard. ¡°But we hardly have anyone in Russia! I don¡¯t care what you ask for in return, you can reschedule as much as you want, just please, we can¡¯t let another Bright One fall victim!¡±


    Lisa stayed silent for a moment, hardly believing what Shaquia said. She almost felt bad for insulting her like that¡­ But not really. If she put it that way, however, there was a chance, although very little, that she just might accept it. If it meant that they couldn¡¯t mess with her plans again, it certainly seemed worth it. All that pent up anger she held towards them, she figured she might as well release it somewhere else in the meantime.


    ¡°Lisa, are you there?¡± Shaquia asked with panic in her voice.


    ¡°I could look into it.¡± She finally said with a smirk Shaquia couldn¡¯t see. ¡°Don¡¯t get me wrong, I still think you lot are a bunch of dickheads, but helping save a Bright One¡­ I could do that.¡±


    ¡°Oh, thank you, thank you!¡± Shaquia said in a voice so relieved, she sounded like she could cry. ¡°Was I¡­ No.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll ask Yaro, then you point us in their direction just this once, yeah? No more.¡± She spoke and leaned on her cane, figuring that because of the possible rewards she could get her and Solomon from this, it just might be worth it.

 Chapter 35 - Lullaby

    ¡°I can¡¯t believe you sent that amateur to do this!¡± Sheila loudly voiced her complaints, having overheard Shaquia¡¯s conversation with Lisa, which Genesis had found terribly amusing.


    ¡°For an amateur, she still beat you.¡± Shaquia released more steam and handed Solomon her phone. That seemed to shut the lioness up well enough. ¡°You¡¯re still going after them, so don¡¯t get too worked up over it.¡±


    ¡°Hey, Shaquia¡­¡± Solomon said in a low voice, frankly baffled by the way Lisa spoke to the lynx. ¡°I¡¯m sorry, I didn¡¯t know it got to her so much¡­¡±


    ¡°It doesn¡¯t matter.¡± Shaquia held out an arm, looking ever so slightly relieved. ¡°She can hate us as much as she wants as long as she does this.¡±


    ¡°In a way, she¡¯s right.¡± Catherine approached Shaquia and was met with an especially cold glare from Sheila. ¡°Luxor doing something was days, non, weeks overdue. Should have dealt with him earlier, and lucky for you, that¡¯s exactly what we¡¯ll discuss.¡±


    ¡°Not now, Catherine.¡± Shaquia leaned on the table and shook her head with a dreadfully grim look. ¡°Meeting adjourned.¡± She paused and took a brief glance at Solomon. ¡°We¡¯re counting on you, Lisa¡­¡±


    ¡°As I said, that¡¯s fine.¡± Catherine put her arms apart, then pointed at the cat. ¡°You, come with me, my men want to have a talk with you.¡±


    ¡°Is that okay?¡± Solomon asked, giving the lynx a worried glance.


    ¡°Solomon, Samuel, you can leave.¡± She said, beckoning the rest of the group to the table.


    With a nod, Solomon and the snake stepped outside with the opossum where they were met with the sight of five of her bodyguards.


    ¡°You see, kitty¡­ My men are terribly afraid of you.¡± She began to say in a lightly condescending tone, pointing to the staunch men lined up beside the wall. ¡°Just look at them, they¡¯re just quaking in their boots!¡± She turned her head and faced the cat. ¡°Do you know why that is?¡±


    Solomon and Samuel briefly exchanged glances. If Genesis could speak, Solomon was sure he still wouldn¡¯t say anything due to his boredom with Catherine.


    ¡°It¡¯s my power, I¡¯m used to people fearing me by now.¡± That sentence somehow pleased Genesis.


    ¡°Correct!¡± Catherine clapped three times, slowly. ¡°I would like them not to be scared. I heard you could do something about it.¡±


    Samuel looked taken aback by the information. If they were more scared of her than him, he was likely trying to figure out what exactly she could do to warrant that.


    ¡°Well¡­¡± She looked at her hands and allowed Genesis to do whatever. He put up her index finger. ¡°...what?¡±


    ¡°What, you¡¯ll only protect one of them?¡± Catherine asked, tilting her head.


    Genesis then gave her a thumbs up.


    ¡°Un, that is correct.¡± Solomon said in an uncomfortably formal tone. ¡°I can¡¯t go wasting my power on trifling matters such as bodyguards.¡± What she said seemed to entertain both Genesis and Samuel, the latter of whom trying his hardest to hide that fact.


    ¡°Alright¡­¡± Catherine gave in. ¡°You choose then.¡±


    Solomon set her eyes on the middle bodyguard, a tall canine with black fur. He appeared relaxed, right until Solomon removed her gloves and held his hands, letting Genesis work. She wasn¡¯t excited to have a random person infused like that, but anything to keep the ever hard to please Catherine satisfied. Once he began glowing green, Genesis stopped and Solomon regained control.


    ¡°Are you sure¡­¡± Before the opossum could even finish her sentence, Solomon found her thumb pointing down, entirely against her will. It freaked her out, but Genesis did feel apologetic. Catherine then gestured to her guards and haughtily left the area.


    In all honesty, Solomon was glad to have her finally gone. She could really understand why Shaquia disliked her, a grating voice, and for a native, a terrible French accent. Sure, Solomon herself had a noticeable one, but it was genuine.


    ¡°Really put her in her placcce there.¡± Samuel approved of the way she handled the opossum, Genesis concurred.


    ¡°If she doesn¡¯t like me, why should I?¡± She frowned, more at the idea of her having any approval of Catherine.


    ¡°True!¡± The snake chuckled, although it was short-lived. ¡°But¡­ Who wasss that on the phone?¡±


    ¡°My girlfriend.¡± Solomon said casually as they began walking down the hall and to the lifts.


    ¡°Ah.¡± He nodded along. ¡°Ssshe¡¯sss¡­ Assssertive.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s one way to put it.¡± She sighed and got into a lift with him. ¡°I¡¯ve never seen her so angry! I had no idea she hated the org so much.¡± Solomon was certain she was ready to tell Lisa about Genesis once she came home, but after hearing her like that¡­ She wasn¡¯t so sure anymore. ¡°Would she understand¡­?¡±


    ¡°Maybe ssshe had a bad day, you know?¡± Samuel argued. ¡°Not like I¡¯m the ekssspert here, but maybe?¡±


    ¡°Maybe¡­¡± She lowered her head, the lift finally arrived at the fourth floor. ¡°We¡¯ll see. I¡¯ll just lie down a little.¡± She stated, looking in the direction of her room.


    ¡°Sssoundsss good!¡± Samuel smiled, which didn¡¯t last too long.


    ¡°You should meet the other Frost Ones.¡± She suggested, gesturing towards the training halls down on the ground floor. ¡°Look for a door with a snowflake, you can¡¯t miss it.¡±


    ¡°Uhm, thanksss!¡± He said, a little awkward, clearly. Solomon knew from her brief conversations with him that he wasn¡¯t very social, but she figured he could try a little.


    ¡°Either way, you¡¯ll be the coolest person there!¡± She giggled. Genesis didn¡¯t like her pun one bit. ¡°I¡¯d like to see you try.¡±


    ¡°Heh, I guessss you¡¯re right.¡± He gave her one more grateful look and turned towards the lifts. ¡°Thanksss.¡±


    With a friendly wink, she waved him goodbye and glanced at the door to her room. She then raised her radio to her mouth.


    ¡°Let me know if you need me, Shaquia.¡± She spoke calmly, trying to sound reliable.


    ¡°We won¡¯t need you today, Solomon, I can promise that.¡± The lynx¡¯s voice came through, along with the sounds of other people talking. ¡°Go and rest, God knows I won¡¯t get much of that tonight.¡±


    ¡°Good luck!¡± She managed to say after a moment, unsure of what else to say. Despite the time since their contact with the acid, Genesis was still quite jubilant. Solomon imagined him in the dreamland she had made up for him in her mind. ¡°Dreamland¡­ Well¡­¡±


    Solomon made her way to room 46 and got into her sleeping attire. It wasn¡¯t too different from her day clothes, just in case she needed to do something urgent at night. Her room stayed the same for the most part, but the painting and the plaque had long been removed.


    She lay down on her bed and let out a sigh of relief before taking out her phone. To her delight, Lisa had sent her a message only a couple minutes before.


    ¡°Roxy, you are NOT going to believe it.¡±


    For once, she knew exactly what her girlfriend was talking about when she wrote that to her.


    ¡°Shaquia told me, sorry to hear.¡± Solomon texted and left out the part where she heard Lisa¡¯s precise reaction. ¡°Samuel¡¯s right, I¡¯m sure she just had a bad day made worse.¡±


    Lisa then sent three messages in quick succession.


    ¡°Good thing you aren¡¯t here in hindsight, wouldn¡¯t want you to have to do this.¡±


    ¡°Like ffs, we can¡¯t catch a break!¡±


    ¡°Anyway, omw to pick up some wanker named Alexander with Yaro, will keep you updated.¡±


    Solomon read the messages multiple times, wishing, praying, not even that she can do it, but simply that she¡¯ll be okay.


    ¡°Stay safe, ma ch¨¦rie. Can¡¯t wait to have you back.¡±


    In response, she got a heart emoticon not long after. With a smile, she sent one back and set aside her phone, just looking at the ceiling, thinking.


    After a couple of minutes she put forward her arms, above her to look at her markings.


    ¡°Hey, Genesis.¡± She said in little more than a whisper. It was enough to catch his attention and she let him grab the notebook. He just wrote a question mark into it. ¡°So, our powers are returning, right?¡±


    His response was a thumbs up.


    ¡°Do you think you can¡­¡± She paused, preparing for her admittedly strange request. ¡°Do you think you can change my dreams, still?¡±


    Genesis went to write right after, clearly intrigued.


    ¡°I could try.¡± The words didn¡¯t really encourage Solomon, but she figured it was worth a shot.The narrative has been stolen; if detected on Amazon, report the infringement.


    ¡°But can you do something that¡¯s, uhm, not a desert?¡± She asked with a short, awkward laugh.


    She was met with the same response: ¡°I could try.¡±


    ¡°Alright then. Want to find out?¡± She couldn¡¯t help but be a little excited about possibly having exactly the kind of dream she wanted. Genesis felt her excitement and put the notebook on the nightstand too. He then moved her hands above her eyes.


    ¡°Okay, that¡¯s not needed.¡± She giggled softly and moved her hands away before she attempted to go to sleep¡­


    Solomon found herself on the ground, the air felt completely different that the inside of a metal facility. Feeling grass brushing against her, she opened her eyes and all around, she saw life; a dense forest and above her, a thick canopy through which she couldn¡¯t see through. Between the trees, gorgeous vibrant fragrant flowers gently swinging in the breeze that blew through all the trees. She wanted to pick one of each just on instinct and make a beautiful wreath to wear. She stepped forward to look at a particularly twisty flower with white petals and just the sweetest aroma when she felt something behind her.


    It was painless and quick, nothing like last time, but she could tell that something came out from the entirety of her body. She whipped around, and contrasting all the life, stood the familiar skeletal figure of Genesis, slightly glowing green as if cartoonishly radioactive.


    ¡°Hey.¡± She said, unable to hide that his appearance, especially his green spots for eyes which seemed to glow even brighter, left her a little scared.


    That feeling was somewhat alleviated when his spot eyes suddenly became horizontal lines.


    ¡°Wait, did you just¡­¡± She paused and took a step back, at the same time realising that she was no longer just a dark figure in her dreams, but rather, herself. Clad in the same clothes she went to sleep, no less. ¡°Did you just close your eyes?¡±


    Right after, the lines in his otherwise dark eye holes became spots again as he nodded.


    ¡°Well.¡± She chuckled, having a hard time truly taking in what was happening, all in her dream. ¡°I guess you weren¡¯t lying.¡±


    To her short-lived surprise, Genesis put forward his bony hands and made various symbols from green liquid, tethered together by thin threads. Solomon felt embarrassed by just how long it took for her to figure out that he was trying to communicate.


    She lit up her markings and read: ¡°Of course not.¡±


    ¡°Woah¡­¡± Solomon wasn¡¯t even sure what to examine first, her surroundings, Genesis, or perhaps her dream self.


    ¡°I said I would be honest to you.¡± The threads shifted every time he ran out of space between his hands. ¡°My friend.¡±


    The liquid between his hands then disappeared as he reached forward and took a step towards the cat, who instinctively tried to step back, only to be stopped by a tree.


    Genesis then petted Solomon¡¯s head.


    After he removed his hand, the cat¡¯s ears drooped as she frowned.


    ¡°I told you not to do that.¡± She complained, sensing mischief from her companion. As she looked him up and down, she realised that Genesis was taller than her. ¡°How does he even¡­ Fit inside?¡± Finding that thought deeply disturbing and entirely too likely to thoroughly embarrass Genesis, she opted not to ask.


    ¡°Now, I wonder¡­ What would happen if I woke up now?¡± She asked out loud, and Genesis moved his hands, and acid, to answer.


    ¡°Nothing. We have already merged. I cannot be removed from you.¡± He stated, calmly.


    ¡°You have such a way of making things sound sinister.¡± She remarked.


    ¡°I apologise for that.¡± His slight awkwardness was felt by Solomon.


    ¡°What is this place?¡± She inquired, continuing to look around, letting herself enjoy the wonderful and exotic forest. It took a sense of annoyance from her skeletal companion to get her to turn around and read what he had to say.


    What caught Solomon¡¯s eyes first, were his eyes once again. They were semicircles with the flat side facing up, each slightly slanted inwards. ¡°It¡¯s as if he¡¯s frowning!¡±


    ¡°Sorry!¡± She rubbed the back of her head and read along as his eyes became circles again.


    ¡°Wishful thinking.¡± The sentence left the cat confused at first. ¡°Every time my host is deceased, I return to the Eternal Swirl. I have only seen it from a long distance and may not understand it, but I always see little islands of green. Sometimes, I am sure they are forests.¡±


    ¡°You know, that¡¯s kind of sweet.¡± She smiled, which quickly became a look of slight fear. ¡°And grim.¡±


    ¡°Come, see its true beauty.¡± Words that made Solomon¡¯s heart beat faster. Where she was was already beautiful, how could it possibly get better?


    Genesis then put down his hands and began walking through the forest, his slight green glow reflecting off of the trees when passed by. That alone, Solomon found kind of pretty as she followed. There was certainly a feeling of dread, following an ancient, glowing skeleton through a dense forest in a dream. To anyone else, it would have been a nightmare for sure. If nothing else, she got a particularly close anatomy lesson on bone structure, how each and every little bone make small movements that result in something as simple as walking. How the arms and tail swung naturally, how the hip swayed, how every part moved, what made a person tick. She found that fascinating.


    As Solomon was looking at another pretty flower, she heard the sound of Genesis¡¯ footsteps stop. She turned and saw the skeleton make a long blink at her, and behind him, she could already see part of the sky.


    ¡°Go right ahead.¡± He signalled to her, which she obliged excitedly.


    Upon stepping out from under the canopy, she understood why Genesis called it the Eternal Swirl. The sky was made up of iridescent shades of purple nebulae, bright, multicoloured stars as far as the eye could see and likely much more beyond, all of it caught in a purple, spiralling pattern slowly swirling clockwise. It was a sight like nothing else Solomon had ever seen before, it was as if she was watching a photo taken with a space telescope up close.


    She walked farther out from under the tree to take in the view and right before she got a good view of what to her looked like a particularly shiny pink star, she was pulled back by Genesis.


    Before she could ask why he did that, Genesis spun her around and pointed downwards. There, she saw the edge. Not of the forest, but the edge of the ground.


    Solomon carefully leaned over and saw an almost identical ¡°sky¡± downwards, swirling counter-clockwise. The two met in the middle of the horizon, forming a view akin to two domes put together to make a sphere.


    ¡°This¡­ This is like a galaxy, up close! But so much prettier¡­¡± She exclaimed, taking a step back and sitting down on the grass. She felt Genesis¡¯ confusion, which was reflected in the shape of his eyes. She couldn¡¯t help but find that, in a macabre way, adorable.


    ¡°A what?¡± He signalled.


    ¡°A galaxy! A little different, but a galaxy!¡± She said again, but it didn¡¯t seem to explain to him.


    She then came to a realisation: he last lived a hundred years ago through someone else. She guessed that people didn¡¯t quite have the same knowledge about space back then.


    ¡°I can¡¯t even begin to explain this to you, Genesis.¡± She admitted, awestruck by the view.


    ¡°I could try to understand.¡± He sat down opposite her so she could always read his words.


    ¡°Okay, so¡­¡± She took a deep breath. ¡°What do you think is above the clouds? No¡­ Above the sky?¡±


    Genesis took a moment to think. ¡°I mostly dealt with magic, not such celestial matters. I do not know. Maybe the afterlife?¡±


    ¡°I guess it¡¯s sort of true for you?¡± She made an awkward smile, then shook her head. ¡°But no, not really. Imagine¡­¡± She herself took a moment to properly find the words. ¡°An endless darkness! And each of the dots you see, stars! They¡¯re like the Sun, but waaaaay farther away. And between all that darkness, massive globes we call planets! Like Earth!¡±


    ¡°I have vague memories of hearing about such things in previous lives.¡± He recalled with a sense of awe and¡­ Sorrow?


    ¡°And this place¡­ You know what, I¡¯ll just show you some pictures once I¡¯m awake. It¡¯s gorgeous. I¡¯ll tell you all about it!¡± She was excited to tell him more, but noticed that despite his admiration, he was sad. ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡± She asked, reaching to hold his hand in hers. By all means, it felt like regular bones to the touch. She then let go to let him tell.


    ¡°For how long will this go on?¡± He asked, leaving Solomon confused. ¡°I have lived so many lives, yet I always end up here. Lives, not all of which I remember anymore. All this information, it is all so beautiful, but¡­ What is the point?¡±


    Solomon opened her mouth to speak, but she couldn¡¯t find what to say.


    ¡°One day, you too, will die. I will be back here, floating far above all of this for a hundred years. Everything I have done, gone. Forgotten. Only to see the world once more, at times, very different. Nowhere to take notes, nowhere to preserve my memories other than my mind. That is a finite container. Do you think I remember my fourth life? My fifteenth life? My twenty-third life? No. None. All burned away. It took much effort to remember even what I discovered myself. Just a few more lives, and who is to say that I will remember what you, who I claim to be my best host, even looked like? For how long will this go on before I forget my first life? How long before I give up on remembering as a whole? I do not want to forget you, Solomon. Just like how I didn¡¯t want to forget my first life, which I am failing at.¡°


    Solomon was left completely speechless. What Genesis had just shared with her, it was something she had never even thought about. Not to the extent that he must be. ¡°Is this what he does inside my mind?¡±


    ¡°I am sorry, I should not have burdened you with this knowledge.¡± He let the threads unravel and fall to the ground.


    ¡°Genesis¡­¡± She finally managed to say. ¡°I¡­¡± Holding back tears, she quickly leaned forward and put her arms around the skeleton. ¡°I¡¯m so sorry, Genesis! I wish¡­ I wish I could somehow help you remember.¡±


    Despite his initial awkwardness, Solomon felt his arms on her back.


    ¡°Listen¡­ We have The System, surely, they¡¯ll stick around for long enough, right? You could record your memories and keep them there, keep coming back! Wouldn¡¯t that work?¡±


    Genesis let go of her so he could ¡°speak¡± his mind.


    ¡°I have no faith in these people.¡± She hated to admit it, but deep down, neither did Solomon. Not some of them anyway. ¡°Who is to say that I can merge to this extent with another host?¡±


    Solomon then grabbed his skull at each side, forcing him to look at her directly.


    ¡°We¡¯ll figure it out, I don¡¯t care what it takes! I¡¯m your best host, no?¡± She said with newfound confidence, wanting to try her best to help the ancient scholar. ¡°You¡¯ve already found the Ledger!¡±


    ¡°After all these lives. I have lost count of how many.¡± His words made Solomon angry.


    ¡°Have faith in yourself, Genesis!¡± She squeezed his shoulders. ¡°If nothing else, I promise we¡¯ll make memories you¡¯ll never forget! We already have the Ledger, and your power is returning! We¡¯ll think of something!¡±


    Genesis gently pulled away and then stood up with a nod.


    ¡°I have to thank you for trying, even if your efforts prove useless.¡± He stated, alongside his downright depression, there was a sense of intense gratitude.


    ¡°They won¡¯t be!¡± Solomon also got up and shot him a confident look. ¡°We have my dreams to talk in private!¡± She then suddenly remembered yet another matter. ¡°And speaking of private¡­ How do I explain you to Lisa?¡±


    ¡°I try not to intrude on your private life. I do not think people today react well to something such as I.¡±


    ¡°Yeah...¡± She answered. ¡°We¡¯ll figure that out too! Don¡¯t worry.¡±


    ¡°I would like to apologise again.¡± He manipulated the liquid into words, once more regretful. ¡°I did not bring you here for this. It is just¡­ On my mind. A lot.¡±


    ¡°I told you, we¡¯ll-¡± She began to say, but was cut off with a bony finger.


    ¡°You do not have to repeat yourself.¡± Solomon honestly felt a little bit insulted, but she understood. ¡°I am tremendously grateful, but now... Where would you like to go?¡±


    She raised an eyebrow, not quite understanding what he meant.


    ¡°Look around you.¡± He then led her to the edge once more and pointed at something in the distance. Squinting her eyes, Solomon could finally make it out, it was a similar, floating island!


    ¡°They are all around us.¡± Solomon read his words after taking way too long to take in the view again. ¡°Of course, it is just how I imagine what they look like. I have had enough time to do that.¡±


    ¡°Then¡­ Can we go see a waterfall?¡± She asked innocently, which Genesis seemed to appreciate. No grand promises, nothing of the sort, just living in the moment.


    ¡°Certainly.¡±


    Right as Solomon read that, she heard a sound that didn¡¯t belong there whatsoever: ringing.


    She opened her eyes and found herself in her room at The System, awoken by an alarm clock that she had forgotten to turn off the night before. She moaned in exasperation and buried her face in the pillow. At the very least, Genesis found it entertaining.


    ¡°Okay, but next time, we will go to a waterfall.¡± She said, lifting her head, imagining all the things she could do in her dreams with Genesis¡¯ help. He could probably even help train her to use her magic better!


    In response, her companion gave her a thumbs up with her hand.


    ¡°I¡¯ll help you, Genesis. I¡¯ll find a way.¡±

 Chapter 36 - Regretful Past

    Lisa felt like her head was spinning as she was travelling with Yaroslav en route to the rendezvous point. She had just put her phone away, having finished a conversation with Solomon. She felt increasingly better about not having brought her along, but at the same time, her powers definitely could have helped¡­ ¡°Nah, wouldn¡¯t want her to do that just because Shaquia told her to.¡±


    She exhaled deeply, looking ahead at the road, feeling the alcohol working in her system. Of all days for the Lightborn to decide to come back and attempt to take another Bright One, it just had to be the one where she¡¯s exactly in the right, or perhaps wrong, place to go and retrieve him. She couldn¡¯t help but think about what would have been if Yaroslav didn¡¯t live so relatively close to Siberia already.


    ¡°Y¡¯know¡­¡± Lisa said softly, feeling tired. ¡°I thought about givin¡¯ that ticket to Thali or someone. Am I glad I didn¡¯t. It¡¯s bad enough that we have to be involved.¡±


    ¡°You should rest, friend.¡± The bear replied, eyes on the road. ¡°It¡¯s going to be a long night. Don¡¯t want you to fall asleep in the middle of a fight.¡±


    ¡°Ha ha.¡± She said unenthusiastically. ¡°As if.¡±


    ¡°No, really.¡± He glanced at her, serious. ¡°If we bump into them, we have to fight. Just go and sleep. The trip is about two hours long, enough to get some shut eye.¡±


    ¡°Yeah, yeah¡­¡± Lisa tilted her head, resting it on her hand, and closed her eyes. She didn¡¯t say anything for what felt like twenty minutes and just let her mind wander. Filled to the brim with vindictiveness, she thought about how much she wanted to get it over with. Three on two if everything goes well. She couldn¡¯t wait to take her anger out on something she couldn¡¯t care less about, really the best part of being sent out to stop the Lightborn, other than the possible reward of course. And  then, two weeks she can spend working on something she just might like more. With Solomon and Milo no less? If she had to cut down a couple of lunatics for that, so be it.


    As much as she tried to keep focus on the task, her thoughts always went back to Solomon. Even so late in life, she felt like she was truly in love for the first time. For all Lisa¡¯s years, she never put anyone else before herself, she always made sure she was happy, that she could afford the things she wanted, that she was her number one priority. Looking back, she couldn¡¯t help but find it selfish. It all changed with Solomon. She was all she had always wanted: a feline with pretty, soft fur whose purring would make her heart melt, someone to cuddle on dark nights Lisa would have spent alone otherwise, and above all, someone who loved her back. She couldn¡¯t believe that she of all people could finally have just the person for her, someone so cute, honest, and loving. By all means¡­


    ¡°We¡¯re here.¡± Yaroslav¡¯s voice woke a confused Lisa.


    ¡°How? We just¡­¡± She looked ahead and saw the hotel where Alexander was no doubt waiting for them. ¡°Oh. I guess I did sleep a bit, yeah¡­¡±


    The bear chuckled and got out of the car, followed by her. Lisa felt that it got colder, likely due to the time of day and them getting even closer to Siberia.


    The building itself was an older type, in a charming way that Lisa liked. Not the modern, vibrantly painted hotels that were nothing but an eyesore in her opinion. Just a faded, brick hotel made not to be ostentatious, but to serve its purpose. Humble.


    The two entered the building. The inside was much like the outside, except for the light brown colour that the walls were painted. There were hardly any people there, a rather ordinary-looking wolf talking to the bear receptionist, a family of three more bears quietly conversing at the far end of the waiting room, and lastly, the person Lisa and Yaroslav were sent for: a shorter foxhound sitting hunched over in one of the seats, clad in a long, thick, dark brown coat with matching trousers, shoes, gloves and a brimmed hat. Lisa had to admit that she quite liked his style. She nodded to Yaroslav and they walked up to him.


    The foxhound lifted his head and gave them a long look as they approached him. ¡°You must be the ones Shaqie sent.¡± He said concisely, a tired, gruff expression on his face.


    ¡°That¡¯s right.¡± Said Lisa, her friend nodded along.


    ¡°Then let¡¯s go.¡± He stood up without hesitation. ¡°Gotta give you some credit, you didn¡¯t keep me waiting. Arrived ten to fifteen minutes ago, got some good timing.¡± He spoke with a noticeable New York dialect.


    ¡°Not big on greetings, I see.¡± Yaroslav remarked as the three of them headed outside.


    ¡°We¡¯ll have plenty of time for that during the ride there.¡± The foxhound shrugged. ¡°Besides, Shaqie wants us to get there sooner, rather than later.¡±


    They got into the bear¡¯s car, Lisa sitting in the passenger seat. She may not have spoken her mind about it, but working with such a stranger so abruptly left her slightly uncomfortable.


    ¡°So, you were the best they had all the way out here, Alex?¡± Lisa asked in a tone that ended up being way harsher than she had meant.


    ¡°We have enough people for Europe, but not nearly enough to reach out to damn near Siberia.¡± Alexander put a cigarette in his mouth. ¡°Mind if I smoke?¡±


    ¡°I would mind it, yes.¡± Yaroslav said, frowning at him through the rear-view mirror as he got the car on the road. Alexander then put it right back in a pack, a hint of disappointment in his expression.


    ¡°You¡¯re their vanguard or somethin¡¯?¡± Lisa said in more of a joke.


    ¡°Not quite. Ludwig wanted me far away from him.¡± He explained. ¡°The fewer Metal Ones he had around that could combine with wind, the happier he was. Not a lot to do, but still plenty of pay.¡±


    ¡°So you¡¯re a Metal One?¡± The bear asked.


    ¡°In part.¡± He took off one glove to show off his markings: silver mixed with streaks of orange on his hands. ¡°Shaqie told me to expect frost and electric. Not sure how much that¡¯ll help, but at least you won¡¯t suffer a painful death at a bat¡¯s touch.¡±


    ¡°Sounds like the start to a plan.¡± Said Lisa. ¡°You deal with Nosferatu, we¡¯ll keep his sister off your arse.¡±


    ¡°Fine by me.¡± He scoffed. ¡°But that¡¯s easier said than done. Haemon¡¯s the only Sanguine One I¡¯ve ever seen personally.¡±


    ¡°Oh come on, he was a total push-over!¡± Lisa exclaimed. ¡°One little shock and he¡¯s down. Easy as that.¡±


    ¡°If only.¡± He sighed deeply and leaned back in his seat, staring out the window.


    Lisa glanced at Yaroslav, who at least didn¡¯t visibly appear sleepy. She took out her phone and checked the name of the settlement where the Bright One was last located.


    ¡°Alright, how long until we arrive at this¡­ Uhm¡­¡± She struggled to read the name.


    ¡°Lenovyatka.¡± Yaroslav helped her out. ¡°It¡¯s a few hours away. It¡¯ll be well into the night when we get there. But if it really is that urgent, what can you do?¡±


    ¡°Thanks, Yaro.¡± She put her phone away, truly just wanting the whole thing to be over. She then looked over to Alexander. ¡°Don¡¯t plan on working together after this, but who exactly are ya?¡±


    ¡°Name¡¯s Alexander Wheeler, if you must know.¡± He said, still looking outside. ¡°Ex-member of a now defunct agency. Anything else Shaqie told you about our Bright One?¡± He glanced at her, side-eyed.


    Lisa scoffed. ¡°Not really. We know that his name is Alexei, he¡¯s a hyena, and that he was in that village at one point, right at the border. Why would people live in such a cold place anyway?¡±


    ¡°Lots of natural resources.¡± Yaroslav chimed in. ¡°But where we¡¯re going, only people with thick fur and thin wallets live, my friend.¡±


    ¡°Or Frost Ones.¡± Alex guessed.


    ¡°That¡¯s a hiding place for ya.¡± Lisa gently elbowed Yaroslav.


    ¡°I don¡¯t like that we have to go there.¡± The bear stated, earning a curious look from Lisa. ¡°That general area is cursed, every time I went there with the boys, something bad happened.¡±


    ¡°So you¡¯ve been there before? And you just mention it now?¡± Lisa complained.


    ¡°All sorts of weird things happened, our machines stopped working, that¡¯s where we got most of our injuries, and so, so many cancelled contracts. One time we were on our way to the building when boss told us to stop.¡± Yaroslav recalled.


    ¡°You¡¯ve told me about that before!¡± Lisa said energetically. ¡°We¡¯re heading there?¡±


    ¡°After I put it in the GPS, I remembered.¡± He shrugged.


    ¡°All that sounds like it was because of the cold.¡± Alex rationalised.


    ¡°On warm Summer days?¡± The bear retorted. ¡°Even near Siberia, it isn¡¯t cold all the time. Boss eventually stopped accepting contracts from those towns and villages because the maintenance costs ended up being so high.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s a little more than just superstition. Splendid.¡± Lisa remarked. ¡°How big is this Leno-place, Yaro?¡±


    ¡°Just a small village, but it has a population.¡± Said the bear. ¡°I think we¡¯ll find our little bats there, I can¡¯t imagine they found one person so fast.¡±


    ¡°You sure about that?¡± Alex said in a questioning tone. ¡°How many hyenas like the cold weather?¡±


    Yaroslav didn¡¯t seem so convinced about his guess anymore. ¡°True.¡±


    ¡°I heard they can still grow out a Winter coat.¡± Said Lisa. ¡°Maybe there¡¯s more than just him? What do we even do if we can¡¯t find him or the bats?¡±


    ¡°We pray that they die on the way back to Luxor.¡± Alexander said with a frown.


    ¡°Lovely. Just beautiful.¡± Lisa tried her best to relax in her seat and absentmindedly turned on the radio for the rest of the trip.


    As the group was discussing the possible weaknesses of the Lightborn bats, the small village finally became visible on the dark horizon.


    ¡°Looks like we¡¯re here.¡± Alex said as he munched on a sandwich he had brought with him.


    ¡°Alright, time for some action.¡± Lisa said more to herself as they passed a wooden sign before the village that read its name. Then again, to her, it might as well have said anything. The village itself was more like one long road with old, single-story houses on each side, most were in decent condition considering the weather, but some were definitely more dreary. Some homeowners even decided to put some personality into the fencing with carved wild wooden animals and lanterns Lisa couldn¡¯t begin to imagine how they would light up on some nights. Naturally, no one was on the streets and almost all houses had their lights off.


    ¡°So, what now?¡± Yaroslav asked.


    ¡°We¡¯ll just ask around.¡± Alexander said matter-of-factly. ¡°Would have been better if a store was open, but we can work with this.¡±


    ¡°At this time of day? Are you insane? No one¡¯s gonna open the door for us!¡± Lisa complained.


    ¡°A Bright One¡¯s more important than some guy¡¯s sleep.¡± Said the foxhound.


    As they went down the single road, there was one house where the light of a TV shone through the window; someone was watching a football match.


    ¡°Stop.¡± Alexander ordered, resulting in the car coming to a halt by the house. ¡°We¡¯ll start here.¡±


    Lisa really wanted to voice her concerns, but she had to admit that she didn¡¯t have any better ideas. If they failed to find the Bright One, it was likely that the bats didn¡¯t get to him either.


    ¡°Whatever you say, mate.¡± She said and opened the car door. The cold night air hit her so hard that her first instinct was to close it.Unauthorized use of content: if you find this story on Amazon, report the violation.


    ¡°A little chilly, eh?¡± Yaroslav chuckled as Lisa felt like she could shiver, even through all the fur and clothes.


    ¡°It¡¯s fuckin¡¯ May! Come on!¡± She voiced her complaints as Alexander got out of the car with a sigh, soon followed by the other two.


    ¡°Make it snappy.¡± Alexander urged and lit a cigarette using his finger. ¡°The weather ain¡¯t much better for me either.¡±


    ¡°Alright Yaro, you do the talking.¡± Lisa suggested, having walked up to Alexander.


    ¡°Why not you?¡± Said the foxhound. ¡°People trust women more easily.¡±


    ¡°But¡­ I don¡¯t speak Russian?¡± Lisa said with a hint of offence in her voice, Alexander looked at her with sheer disbelief as a result.


    ¡°Shaqie sent someone who doesn''t speak Russian?¡± He furrowed his brows.


    ¡°Did she fail to mention the part where I wasn¡¯t planning on doing this in the first place?¡± Said the wolf.


    Yaroslav shook his head, walked right up the door, and knocked on it.


    After exchanging nods, Lisa and Alexander got beside him. No reaction, not until he knocked on the door two more times, resulting in a visibly upset brown bear opening it. He spoke with Yaroslav, but Lisa had no idea what either bear was saying, the latter of whom, she guessed, was explaining their situation. ¡°I¡¯m really just here to look pretty, ain¡¯t I?¡±


    One short and evidently disgruntled conversation later, the homeowner shut the door. His voice could still be heard after, likely complaining about his interrupted night.


    ¡°Didn¡¯t have much faith in the one, his first words were ¡°who the hell are you people?¡± Alexander turned back to the car, hands in his pockets.


    ¡°Honestly, what did you expect?¡± Lisa retorted. ¡°Did he at least say anything useful?¡±


    ¡°He knows Alexei.¡± Said Yaroslav. ¡°Most people in Lenovyatka do.¡±


    Lisa almost felt excited at the news. ¡°That should make it easier, yeah?¡±


    ¡°Thing is, he ain¡¯t the local celebrity by the sounds of it.¡± Alexander remarked as they got back to the car. ¡°More like a petty thief.¡±


    ¡°Absolutely brilliant.¡± Lisa complained and after she got in, she took a picture of the long road illuminated by the headlights. It looked way worse in the photo, but she decided to send it to Solomon for posterity¡¯s sake along with the text ¡°creepy fucking village¡±.


    ¡°Let¡¯s see if anyone else¡¯s up.¡± Alexander suggested as they drove on. ¡°If not, we¡¯ll have to start waking people.¡±


    The next house that happened to have the lights on belonged to another bear. The house itself was well-kept and looked pretty clean. The owner wasn¡¯t exactly of much use, however, she shut the door before them the moment they brought up Alexei.


    One more conversation with yet another bear, another exchange Lisa couldn¡¯t understand. In all fairness, she felt completely useless for the case so far. That only made her angrier at Shaquia for sending her in the first place.


    But then she saw Yaroslav¡¯s expression change as he was conversing: excitement. She glanced at Alexander, who had a satisfied grin. She couldn¡¯t wait to be let in on the news!


    Waving them goodbye, the owner of a house that definitely had seen better days closed the door.


    ¡°Okay, what¡¯d he say?¡± Lisa inquired, looking more excited that she would have liked to admit.


    ¡°He told us to check out the girl living at 179.¡± Alexander said smugly. ¡°She knows him well. Also said that he¡¯s nothing but a thief, and a bad one at that.¡±


    ¡°Guess that ain¡¯t just a rumour.¡± Lisa remarked before they took one more, short trip to the house in question: a simple house belonging to a wolf named Tatiana. There was no light coming from inside.


    ¡°So we¡¯ll just¡­¡± Yaroslav began to say as Alexander pressed the doorbell more than a few times.


    ¡°Yeah. We¡¯ll just.¡± Lisa took a step back from the door when she started hearing footsteps, just in case Tatiana didn¡¯t react well to being woken up.


    The door slowly swung open and its owner looked out with sleepy eyes, wearing a thick, warm coat with her pyjamas under it. She looked just as confused as the other people they asked did.


    Having very little to properly listen to, as well as being cold, Lisa kept her eyes on Tatiana. She was a slightly younger wolf with light grey fur. She had grown out the fur on the back of her head and had it in a ponytail. Not Lisa¡¯s style at all, but she did find her pretty.


    Tatiana exhaled, annoyed at bringing up Alexei¡¯s name. She seemed much more upset with him than the others, which made Lisa all the more curious. The conversation finally ended with the sleepy wolf closing the door while seemingly trying her best to maintain a smile. Lisa simply waited for a translation.


    ¡°Now we know where he lives.¡± Said Yaroslav, although less excited than before. ¡°And that Tatiana really hates shoplifters.¡±


    ¡°Oh, this is too easy.¡± Lisa smirked, but was met with disappointed looks, causing her smile to fade.


    ¡°We know where he lived before he disappeared.¡± Alexander said as they got back to the car. ¡°I just had to open my bloody mouth, didn¡¯t I?¡±


    ¡°You can¡¯t be serious! The bats¡­ What if they beat us to it?¡± Lisa said in desperation.


    ¡°We¡¯ll just have to go through his house either way.¡± The foxhound said casually, seemingly unbothered.


    ¡°We¡¯re breakin¡¯ in?!¡± Lisa raised her voice, and was shushed with a finger.


    ¡°Better than them finding a Bright One. If they didn¡¯t already.¡± He shrugged as they went for a short drive one last time.


    Alexei¡¯s house stuck out like a sore thumb at the very end of the village; it was a modern,  newly-built, large house with an entire floor more than the rest of the houses. By all means, it didn¡¯t look like it even belonged in the village. It also didn¡¯t look like it was recently broken into, particularly by two Mystic bats, which Lisa found to be a great relief.


    ¡°So this is it then.¡± Lisa and her partners got out, taking one good look at the outside of the house. It was sort of a yellowish colour with a red tile roof, as far as she could tell in the dark anyway.


    ¡°Yeah, let¡¯s get to work.¡± Said Alexander, Yaroslav was already pressing the doorbell. They waited and waited, and even after ringing it more, there was no response.


    ¡°A house this big, and he lives alone?¡± Yaroslav said in disbelief.


    ¡°Guess it¡¯s time to kick down the door, eh, guv?¡± Lisa said jokingly, glancing at Alexander.


    ¡°That¡¯d be very unprofessional.¡± He then removed one glove and stuck out an index finger. ¡°That¡¯s where I come in.¡±


    Lisa wasn¡¯t exactly surprised when Alexander¡¯s finger started glowing like hot iron, it made sense for his fire magic, but then she saw it flatten more and more until it was thin enough to fit in the keyhole. ¡°Alright, better be quick¡­¡± With one motion, he slid his incandescent finger inside and seemed to concentrate greatly on his hand. After a few seconds and a couple of failed attempts at opening the door, he rotated his hand to the left and the lock opened with an audible click.


    ¡°Neat trick.¡± Lisa remarked, secretly impressed. Alexander then pulled out his finger, now in a shape that resembled a key, glowing orange. It then slowly shifted back to its original shape and cooled down.


    ¡°The power of fire and metal. Used it all the time back in the day.¡± Alexander then casually opened the door and, followed by the other two, went inside.


    The house was still pretty impressive on the inside, despite very little for decoration, not quite lavish, but it had quality furniture. If it wasn¡¯t for the location, Lisa certainly wouldn¡¯t have minded living in it, especially after a couple touch-ups.


    ¡°A house this big for one person?¡± Yaroslav basically repeated himself. ¡°Alex, if we broke into the wrong house¡­¡±


    ¡°Trust me, this is the one.¡± He reassured him after sniffing the air.


    Lisa then took one good sniff as well and immediately noticed it. She and the foxhound exchanged glances and nodded. ¡°Bats.¡±


    Yaroslav tried his best to remain quiet after hearing them say that.


    ¡°It¡¯s faint, but they were definitely here at one point.¡± Lisa said as the bear opened another door, which led to a kitchen. ¡°Can¡¯t even tell where they were.¡±


    ¡°Lots of hyena as well.¡± Said Alexander. ¡°Or at least similar. Canine for sure.¡±


    Lisa took a turn and saw a set of stairs leading to the first floor. ¡°I¡¯ll go check upstairs, you take a look at the rest, yeah?¡±


    ¡°Fine by me.¡± Said the foxhound, not a tinge of concern in his voice.


    ¡°Be careful, Lisa.¡± She heard Yaroslav say quietly. She held onto her cane firmly, just in case. The sword in it was fully charged too, which made her feel that much safer.


    Slowly taking one step at a time, she followed her nose upstairs and could smell hyena scent coming from every room in the corridor except one. There were five rooms in total: two on each side and one at the very end. She opened the first one on the right, which turned out to be a room that had no furniture inside. The hyena scent wasn¡¯t present there either. ¡°Prob¡¯ly didn¡¯t have time to furbish this one yet.¡±


    The next room was an upstairs bathroom, totally clean and spotless. No one inside.


    Lisa then opened the door at the end of the corridor, and was left quite puzzled. It was packed with shelves, and upon them, an assortment of the most random items she¡¯d seen. Everything from simple utensils, plates, and other items one would find in a kitchen, to three calculators, jagged metal pieces, a deflated tire, a toolbox full of pristine tools that never once saw use, both glass and plastic bottles, mugs, a cheap-looking nasal spray, five identical towels, a fire poker by a few pieces of firewood (despite not having seen a fireplace in the house), even one half of a door handle. They all had Russian labels below on the shelves.


    ¡°What?¡± Lisa took one good look at all the items, and it made no sense to her. Sure, he was a thief, so she could understand him taking some of the things, but others, not so much. She decided that if he wants to, Alexander can go through all that in search of clues.


    She closed the door to the overall strange room and went on to the next: one cosy and clean bedroom. A bed for two, covered with a fancy sheet reaching all the way to the floor, covering the sides. One nightstand on each side made from some kind of darker wood, two wardrobes from the same type of wood, a drawer with a TV on top and a decently large window to boot.


    But none of that really caught Lisa¡¯s eyes, or nose. In that room, the hyena scent was strongest. There was a chance it was only because that¡¯s where Alexei slept, but she decided to take a good look. She walked up to a wardrobe, opened it, and found nothing but piles of clothes.


    She prepared her cane in case of a confrontation and went to the next one. She pulled open the wardrobe door and another pile of clothes fell out, startling her thoroughly. She gasped and took a step back before taking a long breath and calming down. ¡°Bloody hell¡­¡± She muttered quietly and turned around.


    She then heard a sound, something very specific, a soft exhale through the nose. She perked her ears, keeping quiet, and sure enough, after about half a minute of waiting, she heard it again. It sounded like someone trying their best to hold their breath, all ruined by having to exhale eventually. Moreover, it sounded like it came from under the bed.


    Lisa readied herself, her claws, cane and magic alike, and stood next to the side of the bed. She bent down and with one swift motion, she lifted the sheet and took a look under.


    Immediately, she heard breathing. Not the sort an attacker would make, rather someone distressed, panicked, more like whimpering. She saw a figure, struggling against whatever held them in a bind. Strong hyena scent.


    Lisa then took one look around so as not to get jumped, and then spoke. ¡°Oi, calm down, I ain¡¯t here to hurt ya.¡±


    In response, the person made a ¡°Hmm?¡± sound. Lisa reached in and, albeit a bit tougher than she had wanted, pulled them out.


    The person was a female hyena, hands, feet, and snout all tied with rope. Just so she didn¡¯t frighten her more, Lisa used her claws to cut her binds. The hyena then sat down on the bed, rubbing her wrists, and looked on at Lisa.


    ¡°Spasiba¡­¡± She finally said, and wiped a tear from her eyes.


    ¡°Ah great, gonna have to call Yaro again.¡± Lisa said to herself while thinking about how she could get the hyena to stay in the room while she called up her partners.


    ¡°You speak English?¡± She heard the resident speak, and the words brought her more joy than she could have imagined.


    ¡°Oh, finally, someone who speaks bloody English!¡± She said excitedly. ¡°Okay, straight to the point, then you tell us who tied ya up. Me and my colleagues are looking for one Alexei Vasi¡­¡± She paused. ¡°God I suck at this language, sorry.¡± She covered her face with her hands, blushing slightly.


    ¡°Alexei Vasilyev!¡± Said the hyena, looking relieved. ¡°My boyfriend!¡±


    ¡°Girl, you¡¯re exactly who we need then!¡± Lisa briefly went to the door and advised the other two, a little more loudly, that they should come upstairs. It was met with an ¡°Alright¡± and a ¡°Coming¡±, along with the sound of footsteps.


    ¡°Anyway, long story short¡­¡± Lisa turned back towards the hyena. ¡°Where is he? We really need to find him.¡±


    Alexei¡¯s girlfriend seemed much more concerned all of a sudden. ¡°You too?¡± She asked, downright fearful.


    Right then, Alexander and Yaroslav made it upstairs and to the bedroom.


    ¡°Was it two bats?¡± Lisa asked. ¡°Did they tie ya up?¡±


    That only made the hyena more afraid. ¡°Who are you?¡± She recoiled. ¡°Are you with them?¡±


    ¡°Not even close, mate.¡± Lisa smiled.


    ¡°Now then, where¡¯s Alexei Vasilyev?¡± Alexander asked.


    ¡°I told them too, it¡¯s¡­ Hopeless. He¡¯s gone.¡± The hyena said solemnly.


    ¡°Well, maybe tell us what happened, yeah?¡± Lisa offered and sat down next to her on the bed. ¡°Let¡¯s just say that it¡¯s best that those two don¡¯t get to him.¡±


    The hyena¡¯s eyes shot open. ¡°Why? What will they do to him?!¡± She demanded.


    ¡°Okay, let¡¯s just hurry this along.¡± Alexander chimed in. ¡°The longer we wait, the more likely that they do get to him, and then we came here for nothing.¡±


    Yaroslav then said something to the hyena in their native tongue. Whatever it was, it made her calm down enough to finally talk.


    ¡°Alexei made stupid mistakes, but he is a good person! He bought us the house, but¡­ I learned where he got the money from.¡± She paused, likely to collect herself.


    ¡°Do go on.¡± Said Alexander.


    Lisa frowned at him and shot the hyena a more sympathetic glance. ¡°What happened to him?¡±


    ¡°The gang at the mill.¡± She finally said. ¡°They gave him a¡­ A¡­¡± She then said a word in Russian.


    ¡°A loan.¡± Said Yaroslav.


    ¡°Spasiba.¡± The hyena went on. ¡°I didn¡¯t know¡­ One day, he said to me that we¡¯re buying a house! I was so happy, it was good, good life¡­ But then they came.¡± She sniffled and squeezed the fabric of her shirt, shaken by the events. ¡°They took him! They took him to the mill, I know it! I¡­ I¡¯m so scared for him, but more scared to go after him¡­¡±


    ¡°Whoa whoa whoa, what about the police?¡± Lisa asked.


    The hyena looked almost insulted by the suggestion. ¡°The police are afraid too. Small village, big gang, no chance.¡±


    ¡°The mill?¡± Yaroslav stepped forward. ¡°Is it a steel mill?¡±


    ¡°Yes! Yes!¡± The hyena nodded vigorously. ¡°There isn¡¯t any hope left for him¡­ I waited months, maybe he¡¯s dead¡­¡±


    ¡°We¡¯ll go and get him back.¡± Alexander said, much to the surprise of the other two. ¡°You seem to know a thing or two about this steel mill anyway.¡± He said to the bear.


    ¡°They said they would get him too. The bats. They left hours ago, they aren¡¯t back.¡± She shook her head, looking down at the floor.


    ¡°Sorry to say, mate, but they ain¡¯t bringin¡¯ him back if they find him.¡± Lisa informed the hyena, which only made her more devastated. ¡°Either we go get him ourselves and you may get to see him alive, or you just don¡¯t see him ever again if I had to guess.¡±


    ¡°How¡­ How do I know I can trust you?¡± She asked, afraid.


    ¡°We ain¡¯t tied ya up yet.¡± Lisa smirked.


    ¡°And we won¡¯t.¡± Said Alexander. ¡°Now then, how do we get to this steel mill?¡±

 Chapter 37 - Interlude

    White. So much white. It has only been a few days since Luxor took command of a hamlet in Spain, but many of its residents seemed to take a liking to wearing white colours, paint belongings, walls, or even their fur white. Grayson couldn¡¯t bear to look at the settlement, yet he promised, not just to himself, but to Shaquia too, that he would keep them updated no matter what.


    The goat stood in a church building. It was once plain and ordinary, now grossly defiled with the light of a false god. False or not to most, he was nonetheless true to the people he had a hold over, some of whom were sitting on pews to have a rest. Grayson watched the white fox sit in a considerably less lavish white chair before a wooden statue of an angel. Worse than that, next to him, was someone Grayson never wanted to see close to Luxor, ever. A child. A young, easily-influenced mind has no place near the likes of someone so¡­ ¡°Perfect.¡±


    Grayson shook his head, and when his mind cleared, he saw that the young canine was having way more fun with the fox¡¯s bushy tail than said fox was with the child¡¯s general presence. Such contempt, such malice towards someone so innocent¡­ Of course, his expression changed every time the child looked at him.


    ¡°Beautiful, isn¡¯t it?¡± Said the voice of a bat that Grayson had become all too familiar with, that which belonged to Fulmine, the Lightborn¡¯s very own Electric One.


    ¡°Yeah.¡± Said the goat, trying to show some enthusiasm. Mostly not to draw suspicion.


    ¡°All of these people, where would they be without us?¡± The bat looked around, his gaze stopping at each person. ¡°Nowhere, friend. His methods may be a bit weird, but just look around you!¡±


    ¡°He certainly has an effect on people.¡± Grayson said truthfully.


    Right then, the doors to the building opened, and a distressed-looking antelope, wearing a long-sleeved, worn jacket and a skirt, jogged down the path between the rows of pews. Grayson had seen her before a few times at the castle, but didn¡¯t think too much of her. She slowed down and walked up to Luxor, who seemed immensely happier to have someone older in his immediate presence. Grayson watched with a sense of anticipation as the antelope and Luxor quietly exchanged words. She put forward an arm, as if presenting it to a doctor, and Luxor rolled up the sleeve. Under it was a dark discolouration which resembled roots taking hold of the earth. Markings of darkness, Grayson was certain.


    Then, with a trusting smile, she allowed the fox to shine. Grayson wanted to stop it, but thought it to be foolish: to stop a self-proclaimed god¡¯s work. The child even clapped along to the light, which just broke Grayson¡¯s heart.


    Much to his surprise, however, the antelope girl didn¡¯t die from the light, but rather, the markings themselves seemed to retreat, as if to hide from it. It all lasted maybe ten seconds, but the deed was done, the markings disappeared.


    ¡°Who is that?¡± Grayson asked Fulmine, who was seemingly more concerned with the legs of the antelope.


    ¡°Oh, that¡¯s Lucia.¡± He whispered. ¡°What? You interested?¡±


    ¡°Huh? No! What was that with the markings?¡± The goat asked as the antelope embraced Luxor.


    ¡°Those aren¡¯t markings, like mine.¡± He stuck out his hand slightly, as if to show them off. ¡°Hell, we don¡¯t know what they are.¡±


    Grayson took a moment to really take in what Fulmine just said. ¡°I¡¯m sorry, what?¡±


    ¡°A bit confused, aren¡¯t you, friend?¡± The bat smirked. ¡°Long story short, Lucia¡¯s the daughter of some rich Spanish guy. She came down with whatever that is, they tried just about everything to cure it, nothing really worked. Thing is, someone in the society happened to know her dad and told him about the Radiant One¡¯s healing. And now he has to do that now and then, and we get our supplies and transportation in exchange.¡± He glanced over at the antelope. ¡°Real shame, ¡®cause she¡¯s kind of a baddie¡­ But if Luxor can¡¯t heal whatever she has, she can stay far away from me.¡±


    Grayson had learned about their shipments before, but to think that they would receive them for such a specific reason¡­ He knew what he had to do. He had to report that immediately, if he were a leader, he would want dabbling with dark magic discontinued at once.


    ¡°Do you know how she got it?¡± He asked, finding himself a little dizzy.


    ¡°No idea.¡± The bat¡¯s gaze followed Lucia as she left the church building. ¡°It just appeared one day and brought with it dread. That¡¯s all she told us anyway.¡±


    ¡°Okay, I need a small break if you don¡¯t mind.¡± Grayson was already on his way to the entrance of the church.


    ¡°Just make it back in time for supper!¡± Fulmine responded much louder than the goat would have liked.


    As he opened the door, he was once again met with the square of the hamlet, entirely too clean and yet still being swept by five people. They looked almost disappointed to discover that the one who had just come out wasn¡¯t Luxor himself.


    Grayson waited, he waited around long enough so that no one would notice when he would go into his little secret grove and tell all about what he had learned. If they could somehow cut this connection of theirs, maybe that would help finally take down the Lightborn. And the strange markings themselves¡­ He may not have ranked high in the organisation, but he was sure that that wasn¡¯t normal.


    Under the cover of dusk, he slipped away from the hamlet and into the woods he went, quietly walking through and around the vegetation. He tried not to leave tracks behind as much as he could, the sounds of the forest and the swaying of the branches in the wind hopefully doing a good enough job at hiding him.


    He walked and walked, until he could finally see the grove. Partially hidden under a thick bush, he retrieved his communicator. It really just looked like a phone with small solar panels on the back of the case so that it could be charged in more remote areas, as well as more covertly.


    From its contacts, he picked Vanessa. Having ample time to write a message, rather than record one, he sat down and began typing away, including a detailed description on Lucia the antelope and her markings. He hoped that maybe they could even track down who her rich father was and to possibly strike a deal with him. It wasn¡¯t his place to suggest what to do with the information, but try, he certainly did, going into detail on how they could possibly cut off their supplies.


    Before Grayson was done typing, he heard a sound: someone was coming. The steps were far too loud for small wild animals to just be going around in the trees and the grass. He quickly stood up and looked around frantically for a hiding place or anyone who possibly could have followed, only to then calm down upon seeing the sight of a wild deer nonchalantly walking past the grove. Until it spotted him, that is, for after that it disappeared into the woods with a skip and a hop.Unauthorized usage: this tale is on Amazon without the author''s consent. Report any sightings.


    Grayson breathed a sigh of relief and turned around to sit back down by a tree, only to come face to face with Fulmine hanging upside down from a thick branch.


    ¡°Hey, friend.¡± The bat said rather jovially and jumped off, flipping around in the air and landing on his feet. ¡°Saw you sneaking away. What¡¯s that?¡±


    Grayson felt like his heart could jump out of his chest. He needed to think quickly, but alas, had nothing believable on his mind at such short notice.


    ¡°It¡¯s¡­ Nothing.¡± He said in vain.


    ¡°That¡¯s not what nothing looks like.¡± The bat crossed his electric arms with a frown. ¡°Now then, who are you talking to?¡± He said in a tone all too friendly for the situation.


    Talking¡­ That¡¯s when he finally got an idea that the bat just might believe.


    Grayson sighed, the kind of sigh one might make when found doing something he wasn¡¯t supposed to. ¡°My girlfriend.¡±


    Fulmine raised an eyebrow at that. More from interest than questioning what he said. ¡°Ah, didn¡¯t think you¡¯d be such a lover boy. How come you never mentioned her?¡±


    ¡°I¡­ Was just telling her that I was okay.¡± Grayson said, gesturing in order to look more convincing. ¡°With all due respect, I don¡¯t want Luxor to know about her.¡±


    ¡°Why not?¡± Fulmine stepped towards him with a smile. ¡°I¡¯m sure she would love it here. You could be together!¡±


    ¡°No, I¡¯m sure she would be, sorry, but creeped out.¡± The goat, too, took a step backwards.


    ¡°Hmmm.¡± The bat eyed him, now suspiciously. ¡°What¡¯s she look like?¡±


    Grayson acted fast and went from the message to an image of Vanessa, a gazelle with long horns that curved upwards slightly. She, in fact, wasn¡¯t his girlfriend, but maybe it was enough of a ruse. He then turned the communicator around, praying that the bat wouldn¡¯t suspect anything.


    Fulmine looked at the image inquisitively and rubbed his chin. He just looked for an uncomfortably long few seconds, and then nodded.


    ¡°More of a hooves and horns type guy, aren¡¯t you? I can see why.¡± He glanced back at Grayson. ¡°I think she¡¯s pretty.¡±


    ¡°Yeah¡­ She is.¡± Grayson once again started feeling a little dizzy.


    ¡°You know, friend, you¡¯re lucky I found out and not the Radiant One or, let¡¯s say, Haemon.¡± He slightly shuddered at whatever thought was on his mind. ¡°He¡¯s a good guy deep down though. Like, real deep down. You should hang out with him more, he can make for a real good friend!¡±


    ¡°Again, all due respect, but I¡¯d rather not.¡± Grayson felt confused about the sudden change of subject, but he thanked whatever was above for letting him get away with being found out. ¡°I don¡¯t know, it¡¯s just¡­ He¡¯s a Sanguine One and an albino, I don¡¯t really feel safe around him.¡±


    ¡°Oh, don¡¯t let him hear that.¡± Fulmine chuckled. ¡°He gets a bit self-conscious about it, and that usually doesn¡¯t end well. Sure, he¡¯s creepy, anyone with a working pair of eyes can tell that, buuut, maybe don¡¯t be so vocal about it around him?¡±


    ¡°Okay¡­?¡± Grayson was more than ready to leave.


    ¡°Have I told you what happened that one time?¡± Fulmine brought up the topic, much to Grayson¡¯s displeasure. ¡°I went on a date with one of my exes to this beautiful city by a river back in Italy.¡± He said with dreamy eyes. ¡°She was fine, a real beaut, usually not big on birds, but she felt different! She was¡­¡± He then stopped with that upon seeing Grayson¡¯s less than excited expression. ¡°Anyway, Haemon was there to do some business too, so he was close by. Close enough to hear her say some real bad stuff about albinos. What was it¡­¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t think I¡­¡± Grayson began to say.


    ¡°Creepy bastards who look like they would harvest your organs, flay your skin, and drink your blood, all the while you¡¯re still alive. Her words, not mine!¡± He put up his hands, as if to wash them of what he said. ¡±What she didn¡¯t know was that Haemon heard all that. Needless to say, I did the only appropriate thing there.¡±


    Grayson really thought the bat was starting to overshare. ¡°Uhm¡­ You said ex, so I assume you dumped her?¡±


    ¡°In the river, yes.¡± He said casually. ¡°Haemon helped with that, then I dumped her ass properly. Don¡¯t worry, the worst she got from that was a black eye and I had nothing to do with that.¡±


    ¡°Okay¡­ Thanks for the story, I¡¯ll just put this back here¡­¡± Grayson took a step to place the communicator down, figuring that he¡¯ll place it somewhere else once the bat leaves.


    ¡°It¡¯s alright, friend.¡± Fulmine gently patted his shoulder. ¡°I won¡¯t stand in the way of your love. But if someone else learns of this, you¡¯re all alone.¡±


    ¡°Alright, thanks¡­¡±


    Having sent the message, Grayson soon returned to the hamlet where he saw that Fulmine was already trying to charm a lynx slightly taller than him. The goat promptly turned his attention to just about anything else when the church door flew open. From behind, came one terrifying sight: an angry Luxor. Grayson wanted to hide behind the nearest house and to pity whatever unfortunate soul incurred his wrath when he saw that upon the fox¡¯s pristine white robe and fur was a stain. He wasn¡¯t sure what it was, but it looked green.


    Luxor stormed off without a word and into a house that had no one inside at the time. The people around seemed concerned with such behaviour from their god, and started chatting about what could have caused it.


    Right then, out of the church came the small canine child, sniffling. He looked all too guilty and upset, despite another nearby canine, possibly his mother, trying to console him.


    A thought then hit Grayson: just how far would Luxor go to correct the simple mistake of a kid? Grayson would not have it, he could never forgive himself if the fox killed an innocent child, something he was more than capable and possibly willing to do over something so petty. There was no saving the child if so, but maybe there was a way to convince Luxor¡­ A slim chance, but as long as there was a possibility, he would try.


    Grayson walked to the house where the fox went inside and knocked on the door. No response. He knocked again, and after still nothing, he opened the door. Coming from a room, he heard muttering alongside running water: ¡°Foul hellspawn¡­¡±


    As much as he didn¡¯t want to face the fox in such an angered state, he needed to be sure of what he planned to do. He walked to the room and through its open door, he saw the lanky, white fox washing his robe, his back to the door. As if sensing someone¡¯s presence behind him, he turned his head and looked at Grayson with his glowing white eyes.


    ¡°What is it that makes you desire to look upon me at such a time?¡± He asked in a more gentle tone, albeit still with a deep frown.


    ¡°Radiant One!¡± Grayson averted his eyes. ¡°I just saw that you were¡­ Angry. I just wanted to be sure that everything was okay.¡±


    ¡°Angry?¡± He then turned around fully, still wearing his loincloth, having washed off the stain from his fur. Not only did he sound calm, but he even giggled softly. ¡°That is not what my anger looks like. But annoyance? A perfect example.¡±


    ¡°So¡­ Everything¡¯s fine? You don¡¯t need someone to call the musicians?¡± Grayson offered.


    ¡°I could use their songs to ease my divine nerves.¡± He smiled and returned to washing the robe. ¡°This change of living is proving more difficult than I had anticipated. New worshippers are always welcome, but this¡­¡± His ears drooped. ¡°I am not fond of children.¡±


    ¡°Hey, you could actually teach them about your godhood!¡± Grayson said with intense remorse, all in a hope to please his¡­ Luxor.


    ¡°What is the concept of a god for the mind of one so young?¡± Luxor said, scrubbing his robe. ¡°They have no such idea! That is not what I am looking for, I need people who truly believe! For what is worship without belief? What is action without intent?¡± His tail swayed from side to side as his words grew louder, almost as if holding a sermon. ¡°Their actions for me are meaningless if there is nothing behind them, if their words are but learned and not meant from the heart! If I am to be worshipped, it must be by those that TRULY BELIEVE IN MY DIVINITY!¡± He said with great fervour and intensity, then from his hands came the sound of tearing.


    Grayson simply looked on in silence as Luxor lifted the robe from the water, turned around, and looked at him through the hole torn at the back of the fabric.


    ¡°Now¡­ Now I am angry.¡±

 Chapter 38 - Heavy Industry

    ¡°Do you at least have some combat experience?¡± Alexander quietly asked, hands in his pockets, as he followed two fresh sets of footprints in the snow through a forest with his companions.


    ¡°We can muck some folks up.¡± Lisa acted smug, despite the cold getting to her more than she liked to admit. ¡°Last time we went on a trek through the woods, we met some guy who called himself a god. Can¡¯t get much worse than that.¡±


    ¡°Gang, cult, not so different.¡± Said Yaroslav, completely unaffected by the temperature. ¡°I guess one has more guns.¡±


    ¡°Not after Rufina.¡± Alexander shot him a concerned glance.


    ¡°We have her taken care of, how many times do I gotta tell ya that?¡± Lisa complained and stopped to catch her breath by a particularly thick tree. ¡°You talk of these two like they¡¯re a huge threat, is there something you ain¡¯t tellin¡¯?¡±


    The two men stopped as well.


    ¡°I haven¡¯t seen what Haemon can really do, but I¡¯ve heard he¡¯s the real deal.¡± He said with a side-eyed look. ¡°If he sees you hurt Rufina¡­ There¡¯s nothing more dangerous than a man with nothing to lose.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯d like to see him try that with his whole body all stiff.¡± Her confident demeanor was briefly broken by a long exhale. ¡°I get ya, Yaro, but how the hell are you holdin¡¯ up so well?¡± She raised an eyebrow at Alexander.


    The foxhound pulled his hands out of his pockets, and they were shining with incandescent heat. ¡°Right.¡±


    ¡°You know that snow is a terrible conductor, right?¡± He frowned and promptly put his hands back.


    ¡°Yeah¡­!¡± Lisa lied, arms crossed. ¡°Of course I knew that!¡± To her, it made no sense that frozen water would conduct so badly. She almost wanted to try it right there and then.


    ¡°Let¡¯s go then, we ain¡¯t got all night.¡± The foxhound urged and continued walking through the dark forest. Lisa shook her head at Yaroslav, he shrugged in return and followed after Alexander. With one more deep breath, she resumed as well.


    They must have walked less than a hundred metres before Lisa picked up a faint scent coming from the direction of the tracks. She and Alexander exchanged glances. ¡°Blood.¡± Said the latter.


    ¡°Don¡¯t suppose vampires smell like blood, eh?¡± Lisa joked.


    ¡°Mad funny.¡± Alexander frowned. ¡±Sanguine Ones do. Just enough for us.¡± He put on a slight smile and led the way.


    ¡°Get ready for some action, Yaro.¡± Lisa firmly gasped her cane, the bear nodded back at her.


    The scent grew stronger and stronger with each tree they passed by, anticipation rose within Lisa¡¯s heart. She didn¡¯t believe a word of what Alexander said about the bats, all it took was one shock of her sword to deter Haemon from fighting. Even with such a snowy disadvantage, she felt confident that she could take him on, let alone his sister.


    They then saw the tracks abruptly end due to a short, but steep hill. Alexander signalled to Yarosalv to check, which Lisa didn¡¯t like, even if he was just being careful not to get rusted. The bear edged up to the verge, looked down, and took a step back. He then beckoned the other two.


    Feeling a tinge of fear, Lisa stepped to the edge along with Alexander, the latter of whom gasped upon seeing the sight: a wide pool of blood covering the snow. From a short distance around the blood, rusted pieces of metal rods were embedded in the ground and even the trees, along with pieces of wood.


    ¡°Yeah, that¡¯s bad, alright.¡± Alexander remarked.


    ¡°Really, mate?¡± Lisa asked with a scoff. ¡°What gave it away?¡±


    ¡°You don¡¯t understand.¡± The foxhound said, worried. ¡°A Sanguine One wouldn¡¯t just leave behind so much blood when there¡¯s a fight.¡±


    Much to Lisa''s surprise, Alexander then slid down the hill. He still had his hands in his pockets as he did that, and while Lisa hated to admit it, she found that pretty slick.


    Lisa and Yaroslav exchanged glances once again, and with nods of silent agreement, followed the foxhound down the hill. The wolf came to a less than graceful halt, she would have fallen over, had it not been for the bear catching her by the shoulder.


    Meanwhile, Alexander pulled one of many smooth pieces of wood out from the snow. It turned out to be the rusty remains of a rifle with a drum magazine.


    ¡°Can¡¯t use this at all.¡± Alexander tossed it away and turned to see the other two. ¡°Looks like they got auto guns, so keep your heads low.¡±


    ¡°What?¡± Said Lisa. ¡°I expected pistols, not¡­ This!¡± She looked on and saw the trail continued deeper into the forest, with many more footprints, some having a bit of red in them.


    ¡°Can¡¯t you do something with these?¡± Yaroslav pointed at the metal pieces around the perimeter. ¡°Shape them like you can shape your hands?¡±


    Alexander shook his head. ¡°Not with this much rust, they¡¯d be dust before I could even figure out what to do with them anyway.¡±


    ¡°Can we address the wild elephant in the room?¡± Lisa chimed in. ¡°They have machine guns, the fuck are we supposed to do against that?¡±


    ¡°We¡¯ve got magic.¡± Alexander shrugged.


    ¡°Sure, Yaro¡¯s immune to cold, but that doesn¡¯t make us immune to bullets!¡± Said the wolf. ¡°We ain¡¯t like Luxor or that metal guy, they shoot us, we die! Are we sure about this, lads?¡± She felt her heart beginning to sink, the reality just setting in. Even with magic, it wasn¡¯t like they could do much against firearms, as stupid as she found it.Unauthorized use of content: if you find this story on Amazon, report the violation.


    ¡°Shaqie said she¡¯ll send reinforcements, if shit hits the fan, they got us covered eventually.¡± Alexander reassured. ¡°Unless they just pop one in our heads.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m more concerned about those tracks.¡± Said Yaroslav. ¡°The bats lost. Even with their weapons destroyed, the gang beat them?¡±


    ¡°Now that you mention¡­¡± Alexander took another look at the metal rods around. Same as the rest, useless to him.


    ¡°Okay, what if we just wait for that reinforcement then?¡± Lisa suggested.


    ¡°Or they teamed up.¡± Alexander replied. ¡°Unlikely, but it would still suck.¡±


    ¡°Maybe that¡¯s why they left all the blood?¡± Said Yaroslav.


    Lisa took a step backwards by a tree that hadn¡¯t been impaled. ¡°I say we wait for backup. I¡¯m not dying for bloody Shaquia of all people.¡±


    ¡°What, we out?¡± Alexander furrowed his brows. ¡°If the bats are out of the picture, we can easily fight whatever¡¯s left.¡±


    ¡°We can argue about that all night long, or we can¡­¡± Lisa perked her ears and gestured for them to keep it down. A strange noise, terribly quiet, but she was sure she heard it.


    ¡°What is it?¡± Alexander asked, only to be shushed again.


    ¡°I¡­ I don¡¯t know.¡± Lisa said after a couple seconds of listening. ¡°Almost sounds like a broken radio. Or maybe a-¡±


    Crack, crack, crackle.


    Suddenly, the snow around Lisa exploded in a white mist, covering her from sight for a couple of seconds. She felt something thin and hard against her and the next thing she knew, her body was thoroughly wrapped around that tree by metal wires, stuck in an awkward position with one arm over her and the other at her chest.


    ¡°Guys¡­!¡± She said, the wire was so tight that she could hardly even breathe.


    Just then, all around them, mounds of snow rose up and revealed people, all in thick Winter clothes, goggles, ski masks and carrying wooden bats and sharpened sticks. Lisa looked around, as much as she could, and saw maybe a dozen of them.


    ¡°Rufina did her job at least!¡± Alexander cried and pushed his back against Yaroslav¡¯s, both in a defensive stance.


    The formerly hidden people ran right up to the two with their weapons ready, one swung a thick stick at Alexander, only for him to catch it and with one movement, twist it out of his hands. The foxhound then hit the aggressor on the head with a backhand strike of the stick, sending him to the ground. Another assailant attempted the same with Yaroslav, only for the wooden bat to be frozen and shattered in one spot.


    Alexander snapped around and smacked yet another attacker with a metallic face slap, then a jab that sent him stumbling back. He looked so confident in his actions, every strike and movement deliberate to deliver as much damage as possible, leaving no room for doubt or mercy.


    One gang member with his entire body covered in Winter gear barreled through from in between two others and wound back his fist, which was in turn struck by Alexander¡¯s metal hand with a deafening clang. That same member didn¡¯t even react, which visibly shook the foxhound. A strike that should have shattered his hand, if not his entire arm, shrugged off just like that. Alexander went in for a punch of his own, and was stopped by the gang member¡¯s other hand, a clang once again rang out. Not just that, but Alexander actually seemed to struggle, even with his silver hands.


    The sound of screaming metal was then heard as Alexander heated up his hands, causing the attacker to recoil. His hands slowly started to change shape, elongating to resemble claws. All the while Yaroslav was busy hurling one partially frozen over gang member at another; they carried the momentum right into a tree from which snow fell down and covered them both.


    ¡°Someone help cut the wires!¡± Lisa demanded, struggling against the wires holding her in place.


    ¡°A bit busy, toots.¡± Alexander briefly responded, standing there in the middle of it all, baring his now large claws, as if challenging his previous opponent, possibly another Metal One. He lunged forward to claw at the foxhound, and thus, took the bait. Alexander ducked under his high strike and brought him to the ground by forcefully yanking on his feathery tail. The rest went after Yaroslav, thinking him to be easier to defeat, only for Alexander to briefly join in and cut one across the chest with a deceptively swift strike of four claws. The bear¡¯s icy touch took care of another, whose weapon was once again reduced to icy splinters. Him and his buddy both backed off away from them.


    Alexander then turned towards Lisa. Yaroslav nodded at him, as if to say that he¡¯ll keep an eye on the covered person, and the foxhound ran towards the wolf with leaping steps. Lisa saw the fight transpire, and was deeply impressed by, and grateful for, Alexander¡¯s skills in both his combat and magic. Having to be saved by him was extremely patronising¡ªshe hated being unable to do anything, but she could come to terms with that after she made that patch of woodland look like an electrical pole hit it. ¡°Guess we¡¯re a li¡¯l tougher after all.¡±


    Crack-crack-crackle. Lisa heard the sound again, coming a little distance from behind the tree she was stuck to, and right as Alexander lifted his claws to cut her free, a steady pinkish purple arc of electricity hit it.


    ¡°What the hell?¡± The foxhound snapped at the direction from which the arc was coming, and found himself unable to move his arm. Then came another, then another arc, hitting him in the chest and other arm.


    ¡°No! NO! You¡¯ve got to be fucking joking!¡±  From behind the tree emerged a tall, muscular, burly owl with the purple lighting coming from the tips of his left hand fingers. ¡°They have magic¡­ We¡¯re so, so fucked¡­¡±


    ¡°This isn¡¯t fair!¡± Alexander said and got Yaroslav¡¯s attention, who just finished off another assailant. With a movement of his hand, the owl sent the foxhound after him. Alexander¡¯s legs made a futile attempt at stopping the rest of his body from floating through the air like a twisted marionette, and with but a simple twitch of his index finger, the owl brought Alexander¡¯s claw down on Yaroslav. He moved out of the way just in time not to get slashed, but the palm still hit him over the hit with an almost comical clang. Regardless, he was on the ground, unmoving.


    ¡°YARO!¡± Lisa cried out, straining against the wires like a fish in a net. The covered person then finally removed his goggles and mouth covering, revealing a hooked beak akin to that of a buzzard. He looked at Alexander with a mockingly smug grin as the owl violently waved his left hand from one side to the other, sending the tethered foxhound straight into the hill, from which he practically ricocheted off of with a bounce. He let out one long, bloody exhale before falling face first into the snow.


    The birds then turned towards Lisa.


    ¡°No, no, no, NO!¡± Lisa heaved, preparing herself for the worst. Her power was useless in the snow, the most it would do is to set the tree on fire. Her eyes darted from one gang member who was clambering up on their feet to the next, and noticed: they all had beaks, even if some had them behind a scarf or so, they most definitely were all birds.


    The owl aimed at one of the less rusted metal bars stuck farther away in the snow, and with two arcs of purple lighting, he simply lifted it into the air, bringing it closer to Lisa.


    ¡°No! Please!¡± She begged in despair, but her words fell on deaf ears¡­ Or so she thought, before the owl and the maybe metal bird glanced at one another, then grinned. ¡°They¡­ They understand me.¡±


    ¡°Listen, give me a moment and I¡¯ll give ya a reason why you should let us go!¡± She made her attempt at appealing to the gang, or what was more likely just a small part of it, only to be laughed at by the buzzard.


    The owl then spoke in a deep, ragged voice, two words Lisa couldn¡¯t understand, and quickly lowered his hand, bringing the metal rod down on her head. Her vision blurred from the blunt force trauma before it all slowly went dark.

 Chapter 39 - R.E.M.

    Having gotten over her disappointment regarding waking up from a fabricated dream, Solomon checked her phone. Lisa had sent the cat a couple of messages regarding the task, and it was going well from what she could tell. Solomon wrote back a simple message before starting the day. ¡°Stay safe, Dear.¡±


    She got up from bed and went to open the door to greet the facility with open arms. Upon leaving her room, she saw a familiar face: the little fennec fox, Rime. He smiled and waved her hello.


    ¡°Hey.¡± She rubbed one eye and attempted to look her best, which didn¡¯t work as much as she would have liked. The brief encounter reminded her of something she wanted to ask: how come they don¡¯t just heal his voice?


    She decided right there and then that she would get some answers and turned on her radio. ¡°Shaquia, do you have a minute?¡±


    There was no response from the lynx for a few uncomfortably long seconds.


    ¡°What is it?¡± The voice of an irritated Shaquia came through. ¡°If you have questions, come find me. Break room 5 on the sixth. Other people need this line too.¡±


    The tone wasn¡¯t very promising, but Solomon understood that the lynx¡¯s night must have been quite bad. ¡°Okay.¡± She replied and went to the lifts.


    When she got into the only one that was on the fourth floor, she saw that the green lizard with orange markings, Dragon, wanted to use it as well. He opted not to do so when he saw that she was in and went to take the stairs instead. ¡°Must be a really bad allergy.¡± With the company of no one but Genesis, who was rather amused by the lizard¡¯s reaction, the lift took her to the sixth floor. When she exited, another lizard, carrying a stack of white sheets, got in.


    Solomon hardly had to do any walking, as the fifth door from the lift was break room 5.


    Pushing the door open, she was met with a cosy, well-lit room with bright beige walls, red couches, and great ventilation. The only person inside was Shaquia, smoking a cigarette. The bags under her eyes somehow looked even more pronounced than usual and her fur was rather scruffy.


    ¡°Hey¡­¡± Solomon began to say, frankly surprised by the lynx¡¯s state. ¡°So, how was the night?¡± She asked in an innocent tone.


    Shaquia furrowed her brows. ¡°Wonderful. Just wonderful, Solomon.¡± She glared at her. ¡°If that¡¯s all you wanted to ask, please just go back to sleep.¡±


    Solomon was taken aback, Genesis apparently found the situation hilarious. ¡°All that really got to her, huh¡­¡±


    ¡°Non, non, I¡¯m just, uh¡­ Not a good conversation starter.¡± She put her hands behind her back. ¡°Anyway, I was reading The Ledger the other day and saw the mention of machines that use electricity. So Genesis and I were wondering¡­ Did you edit it? He clearly didn¡¯t write that.¡±


    Shaquia took a long drag of the cigarette and blew out smoke to the side where it was sucked into the vents. ¡°We didn¡¯t.¡± She said concisely. ¡°We don¡¯t know who did that either. We¡¯ve looked into it, but couldn¡¯t find anything.¡± She scoffed.


    Genesis was deeply disappointed by her answer. At the same time, he seemed a little eager.


    ¡°Well then¡­¡± Solomon sat down on one of the couches by the wall. ¡°I was also thinking, why don¡¯t you just heal Rime so he can talk?¡± Her companion felt a little upset by her priorities.


    ¡°Bright Ones can¡¯t heal conditions, illnesses, or deformities that someone¡¯s born with.¡± The lynx took another drag. ¡°Section 14 on Bright Ones.¡±


    Solomon vividly remembered skipping over that section specifically during her reading. ¡°Right.¡± She put on a smile, which Shaquia saw right through by the way she looked. Solomon¡¯s smile faded.


    ¡°Anything else?¡± The lynx asked. Solomon felt great anticipation from Genesis.


    ¡°About Genesis¡­¡± She cleared her throat. ¡°I talked to him last night in my dream and-¡±


    ¡°You can do that?¡± Shaquia¡¯s irritated expression became more curious and interested.


    ¡°I guess so.¡± Solomon shrugged. ¡°Thing is, he¡¯s kind of¡­ Depressed?¡± She felt her fingers twitch along with Genesis¡¯ curiosity, then lack of emotion.


    ¡°Uhm, elaborate?¡± Shaquia raised an eyebrow.


    ¡°Okay so¡­ He¡¯s forgetting.¡± The sentence sent a chill that wasn¡¯t hers down her spine. ¡°He¡¯s lived through lots of lives and waited a hundred years between each. Basically, he¡¯s afraid of what he¡¯s forgotten and what he¡¯ll forget. Do you think there¡¯s a way you could keep a record of his memories? Maybe in another book like The Ledger?¡±


    Shaquia didn¡¯t say anything for a couple seconds. ¡°I¡­ Can¡¯t say I expected a question like that.¡± She admitted. ¡°I don¡¯t usually consider the prospect of your death in that way.¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s that supposed to mean?¡± Solomon blurted out, then relaxed. ¡°Can you do it or not?¡±


    ¡°I won¡¯t be here a hundred years from now, let alone a hundred years from your death. None of us will.¡± Shaquia said matter-of-factly. ¡°Not one current member of The System will be here. Even the old man would be dead by then, longer life or not. We could keep an archive, but¡­ Could he find us again?¡±


    Solomon looked at her right hand. She felt that Genesis was unsure of that himself.


    ¡°Although, the least we could do is try.¡± Shaquia made a slight smile and looked directly past Solomon. ¡°I didn¡¯t know you had problems like that!¡±


    ¡°You¡¯d be surprised.¡± The cat felt Genesis¡¯ sorrow, but at the same time, gratitude.


    ¡°We¡¯ll discuss the logistics of that once we have this whole Lightborn problem taken care of, okay?¡± The lynx said to Genesis. ¡°And Solomon, here¡¯s my recommendation. If you can really ¡°talk to him¡± in your dreams, then actually just go and sleep. It saves us the trouble, you can find out more, and something tells me that he¡¯ll be a little less depressed too.¡±


    Genesis apparently agreed with that.


    ¡°So you just want me to go back to sleep?¡± She asked with a questioning look. ¡°What about the meeting?¡±


    ¡°With how things are, we can be happy if we even have a meeting.¡± Shaquia shook her head. ¡°We¡¯ll just wake you up when we¡¯re starting.¡±


    ¡°Right¡­¡± Solomon sighed. ¡°I missed the trip with Lisa just to sleep?¡±


    ¡°Something on your mind too, Solomon?¡± The lynx asked.


    ¡°Oh, it¡¯s just¡­¡± The cat looked from side to side, unsure of how to phrase it exactly. ¡°I keep thinking about Lisa. The way she blew up at you like that and all. It¡¯s not like her to do that, I don¡¯t want her to feel¡­ I don¡¯t know, abandoned? Because of my duties here.¡±


    Shaquia chuckled. ¡°I worked for Ludwig for long enough to get used to it.¡± Her brief smile disappeared. ¡°I think you¡¯re looking too far into it. We all have bad days¡­ God knows we do.¡± She muttered. ¡±Even if it is about that, well, we all have a side we¡¯d rather hide.¡±


    ¡°You tell me¡­¡± Solomon remarked. ¡°I haven¡¯t figured out how I¡¯ll explain Genesis to Lisa.¡±


    ¡°She still doesn¡¯t know?¡± Shaquia¡¯s eyes opened wide, bloodshot from the lack of sleep. ¡°How long has it been since you found out?¡±


    ¡°I know!¡± She snapped, startling Genesis. ¡°But¡­ How do I even tell her? I thought I was ready, but then she blew up at you like that and now I¡¯m just¡­¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s not my place to tell you advice like this, but for the sake of my sanity, tell her.¡± Shaquia recommended. ¡°It¡¯s different, but my husband knows about my steam powers, and let me tell you, he loves our saunas!¡±


    ¡°Your power is a portable sauna, mine is acid and an ancient skeleton.¡± Solomon frowned. Genesis felt offended.


    ¡°I just said it was different!¡± Shaquia complained, then lowered her voice. ¡°Either way, it¡¯s¡­ It¡¯s messed up that she doesn¡¯t know. How would you feel in that situation?¡± She took another drag of her cigarette.


    ¡°I get that, but I¡¯m just¡­¡± Solomon paused. ¡°So scared of how she¡¯ll react now!¡± She then felt her fingers curl and her thumb sticking out, downwards, along with Genesis¡¯ mild frustration. She was kind of surprised by that. ¡°I¡¯ll just talk to him about it. As much as he probably doesn¡¯t like it, Lisa is a part of our lives.¡± She then felt the same thing happen to her other hand. ¡°Alright, I get it!¡±


    ¡°Just go to sleep, Solomon.¡± Shaquia took one more drag, and that¡¯s when Solomon noticed: the cigarette hasn¡¯t gotten any smaller. In fact, it wasn¡¯t even lit. She was about to point it out when the lynx spoke again. ¡°It¡¯s just steam.¡± She then breathed in and exhaled steam, without raising the cigarette to her mouth. ¡°Trying to quit.¡±


    ¡°Alright, uhm, good luck?¡± Solomon smiled awkwardly and got up. ¡°I¡¯ll just¡­ Go sleep, I guess. See you later!¡±


    ¡°Take care.¡± Shaquia waved with one hand as Solomon closed the door and walked back to the lift.


    Waiting for it to arrive on the fourth floor, she felt slight frustration from Genesis. ¡°Yeah, I could have phrased things better.¡± With that, he felt vindicated. If nothing else, she still sensed the lingering effects of the sulphur.


    Solomon finally got back to her room and she could hardly believe the situation she was in, instructed to talk to a skeleton in her sleep. ¡°Things have gotten so bizarre lately, but¡­ C¡¯est la vie.¡±


    She stepped inside and lay down on her bed. She once again stretched out her arms to look at her markings. ¡°Ready when you are.¡± With that, she closed her eyes.


    When she awoke, Solomon found herself on the ground once again. To her delight, she could already hear the rushing, cascading water. She sat up in the ankle-high grass and the first thing she saw was the skeletal figure of Genesis standing a couple metres away from her with his arms crossed. Behind him was a forest similar to the last dream, coupled with the swirling, iridescent sky. Genesis then slowly walked around her, Solomon followed with her gaze until she could finally see it: a waterfall. Genesis made an exaggerated ¡°ta-dah¡± gesture once he got in front of it.


    ¡°Whoa¡­¡± Solomon said in awe as she stood up, and saw that this waterfall was very different from the ones she¡¯d seen in pictures and videos; it flowed half-up and half-down. The water fell down and continued in a river perpendicular to the waterfall itself, flowing to the left. Or at least, that was true for the left side of it. On the right side, the river flowed, then took a sharp turn, and seemingly fell upward to the top of the 30-metre waterfall. This formed a completely still part of water in the middle section of the river.


    ¡°Well that¡¯s¡­ trippy.¡± Solomon admitted. ¡°But it¡¯s beautiful.¡±


    Genesis closed his eyes and looked quite proud. As proud as a mostly expressionless skeleton could, anyway.


    ¡°So¡­¡± Solomon took a few steps forward and sat down on a rock by the water. ¡°Any ideas on how we could tell Lisa?¡±


    Genesis opened his eyes, and rubbed his lower jawbone, thinking deeply. He then raised one finger and signalled with his acid. ¡±No.¡± That, Solomon didn¡¯t find very promising. ¡°I have told you, I prefer not to interfere with your private life. However, I could train you so you are not so helpless without me.¡±


    ¡°That doesn¡¯t really help with Lisa¡­ But I¡¯ll take what I can get.¡± Solomon shrugged. ¡°Teach me, o, master Genesis.¡±


    ¡°Please do not refer to me as such.¡± He informed her with a slight frown. ¡°If you wish to receive training, then there is one problem.¡±


    ¡°Okay?¡± Solomon shifted in her rudimentary seat, it wasn¡¯t nearly as comfortable as she would have liked. ¡°Hey, if this is a dream, can¡¯t you like-¡±


    She was cut off by Genesis placing his hands against the sides of her face. She was startled, but she got the idea: he really wanted her to listen.


    ¡°To understand how to use my magic best, you must know a few things.¡± Solomon felt that he was dreadfully serious. ¡°Things I am not willing to share with those other people.¡±


    ¡°Whoa, whoa, are you sure?¡± Solomon urged him to slow down.


    ¡°Are you?¡± He tilted his head slightly. ¡°I am willing to put my trust in you, just as you did. Are you sure you can share the burden of keeping my secrets?¡±Did you know this text is from a different site? Read the official version to support the creator.


    Solomon thought about it for a long moment. On one hand, she really wanted to know how to protect herself better, how to use this magic. On the other hand¡­ She would need to lie about it to everyone, every time. Her life was already filled with lies, she wondered if she could take any more.


    ¡°You know what?¡± She began to say, having made up her mind. ¡°I can. I¡¯ve been dying to know anyway, what makes your magic work?¡±


    ¡°Do you think its shape is a coincidence?¡± He asked, shifting the acidic text between his hands.


    ¡°No.¡± She replied confidently.


    ¡°Correct.¡± He was pleased. ¡°It is a spiral for a reason. Magic comes from nature, so I used the most natural shape I could find. Spirals are everywhere. Shells, plants, tornadoes, they all have the shape.¡±


    Solomon briefly inspected her hands and traced one of the markings with a finger.


    ¡°Moreover, I chose the spiral for what it represents. Everything leads to one point, and in life, that is death.¡± Genesis lowered his head slightly. ¡°It is quite ironic in my case, but even then, everything leads back here. No matter what path you take in life, the truth is that it does not matter. It all ends with death.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s kind of grim.¡± Solomon remarked. ¡°A running theme with you, you know.¡±


    ¡°You need to instil that in your mind, Solomon.¡± Genesis went on, calm. ¡°The shape, the meaning, the idea of a spiral. It is very different from other types of magic, and thus, you must get used to it. After all, I could not fully replicate how to use magic. It should be just as natural as moving your hands, but to make my magic work, you need to be more deliberate.¡±


    ¡°So that¡¯s it?¡± Solomon raised an eyebrow. ¡°That¡¯s the secret? Spirals?¡±


    ¡°Try it. Focus on the idea. Close your eyes, if you must.¡±


    Solomon nodded, and held out one hand. She let the acid collect in her hands, trying her hardest to focus on a spiral. To no effect. She closed her eyes, and imagined a spiral, the shape, what Genesis just told her. She tried to understand, to imprint the idea. She felt like she was making progress with it, but when she opened her eyes, she saw that nothing happened. Her acid was still inert and unmoving. She sighed in exasperation.


    ¡°It is only natural.¡± Genesis signalled to her, compassionate. ¡°Try to hold it.¡±


    Solomon was about to ask what he meant when he bent down and placed his hand against hers, he then formed the acid in it into the spiral shape. When he removed it, it went back to being a puddle.


    ¡°Oh!¡± Solomon finally understood, he wanted her to try and hold the shape using her power. ¡°Okay, let¡¯s try again.¡±


    Try after try, Solomon failed to do as much as to keep the shape in her hand, every time Genesis wasn¡¯t in contact with it, it fell apart. But she wouldn¡¯t quit, she insisted that they try again, and again, and again.


    After what must have been a couple dozen times, she looked through Genesis¡¯ fingers and at the spiral in her palm, she breathed deeply and nodded. Genesis removed his hand, and it all ended the same. The acid flowed back to its natural state. However, this time felt different, she felt it, she felt that maybe, for just a fraction of a second, it held.


    ¡°Again!¡± Solomon demanded, and their palms met again. She focused on the shape, the idea of the spiral in her palm, that it too, will end, that she can do it¡­ That she can help Genesis that same way he can help her.


    Genesis removed his hand, and finally, the spiral shape held in her hand. Solomon was overjoyed, but right as her lips stretched to a smile, the spiral collapsed once more. She lowered her hands and head, and looked down at the ground in disappointment. She then felt a bony hand on her head. Genesis just petted her.


    ¡°I told you not to do that.¡± She frowned.


    ¡°It is a start.¡± Genesis informed her. ¡°Keep it up, and we will see results.¡±


    ¡°If you say so.¡± Solomon shrugged, then got an idea. ¡°You know what would be some great motivation? You could show me what I could do once I¡¯m better!¡±


    ¡°I am not sure that would count as motivating.¡± Genesis informed her with concern.


    ¡°I¡¯d still like to see.¡± She urged him with a smile. ¡°Come on, just one fancy thing?¡±


    ¡°Fine.¡± Genesis relented and took a few steps back. He took some water from the strange river and converted it to acid, effortlessly holding it in the air as he was still in contact with it. Then, he put his arms apart, and the acid shot out to the sides. The ends of the two tendrils it formed curled up more and more, twisting around in the air multiple times until it resembled the outline of two hands with the spiral markings on them.


    To say that Solomon was in awe would be an understatement, she stared with her jaw hanging, smiling all the way through the performance. Genesis then lowered his arms, and with it, the acid. It sank into the ground, where it became harmless black muck.


    Solomon stood up and clapped. She could one day do that as well, and get better, she certainly wanted to.


    ¡°That was awesome, Genesis!¡± She exclaimed, to which Genesis responded with an extravagant, deep bow along with a sense of mischief. ¡°Let¡¯s get to it!¡± She grabbed his forearm bones and with a sense of surprise from him, dragged him back to the rock.


    They trained for what felt like hours upon hours, Solomon had no idea how much time had actually passed in the real world, nor did she care. She just wanted better control over her power. At the end of their session, Solomon could hold the shape of the acid for up to five seconds, an achievement she already felt proud of.


    When the acid collapsed in her palm for the last time, Solomon leaned back and fell from the rock, which hurt just a little more than she liked, dream or not.


    ¡°I believe it is time we stop.¡± Genesis remarked, undeniably entertained by her clumsiness.


    ¡°Yeah, I think you¡¯re right¡­¡± She stood up, dusted herself off, and turned to look at the waterfall. She was impressed by just how well she could hold her attention on the shape of the spiral despite the admittedly gorgeous sight right by her. ¡°I don¡¯t know about you, but I could use a break.¡±


    She felt Genesis¡¯ confusion as she took off her sandals and walked to the still water. She dipped her toes, then foot in it, and found that the water was quite nice. A slight bit cool, but nothing she couldn¡¯t get used to.


    ¡°Is the water safe?¡± She asked Genesis, just to be sure.


    ¡°Yes.¡± He replied.


    ¡°G¨¦nial!¡± She said with great delight. She then took off her dress and put it down on the rock, feeling Genesis¡¯ fathomless awkwardness as he averted his eyes. ¡°Oh come on, Genesis.¡± She stepped into the water, which became deep enough to reach up to her waist after just a few steps. ¡°The water¡¯s fine, come and relax!¡±


    With one slightly open eye, he gestured no to her, his awkwardness unchanging.


    Solomon scoffed. ¡°You¡¯re a skeleton and I have a girlfriend, I don¡¯t want anything weird! I just want to hang out with a friend!¡± She explained as bluntly as she could, but Genesis was unwavering in his decision. ¡°Whatever floats your boat.¡± She shrugged and submerged herself to the neck. The water felt nice on her fur, it was clear and free of any dirt, despite the waterfall. She leaned back and let herself float, closing her eyes as she did. She put her hands behind her head and let herself enjoy the moment, her tail swaying under the water.


    After a good few minutes, she looked up and saw that her skeletal companion was sitting by a tree, looking into another direction. She really wanted to know why Genesis had such an aversion to even the thought of a partially naked body, but she decided not to push it. She turned around and looked at the waterfall again. If Genesis made this in her mind, she was certain he¡¯d be the type of person to hide something behind it.


    She waved to him, but he didn¡¯t even seem to notice her. He wasn¡¯t sad, or even awkward anymore, more neutral. With that, she began walking towards the waterfall, the closer she got, the deeper the water got. At the middle of the river, her short legs couldn¡¯t reach the bottom, so she swam over to the other side.


    Looking up at the cascading water, she closed her eyes and stepped forward into the waterfall. Despite the height from which it fell, the water felt like smooth rain on her back and in the alcove behind the waterfall, water was still falling. ¡°Clever Genesis.¡± She kept on walking, the water softly hitting her back for about twenty metres. That¡¯s when she opened her eyes to see if there was even anything in front of her, but her vision was blocked by the water. It was hardly deep enough to reach up to her ankles as she walked on on the remarkably smooth stone. She must have been deep inside the hill from which the water fell, and kept on going until she felt an incline in the ground. She carefully held herself, pushing her claws against the stone to make sure she¡¯s stable. Surely, if Genesis went out of his way to make the tunnel, something had to be at the end of it.


    She took one more step, and felt that the ground was nothing like before, it was immensely cold, and worse, smooth as ice. To her horror, she slipped.


    She slid down and down in the tunnel behind the waterfall, unable to see due to the water, trying to stop herself with her claws, all in vain. Even with her claws painfully strained against the ice, she couldn¡¯t slow herself down enough to stop.


    The tunnel ended abruptly as she hit the ground, cold and soft. Shivering, she rubbed the water out of her eyes, and when she could finally see, she was met with the sight of a tundra. Dark snow clouds blocked the view of the sky, nothing but snow that seemed to stretch on endlessly and mountains of ice as far as the eye could see. In the distance, she saw four massive pillars of ice that reached up and above the clouds.


    She didn¡¯t linger for long, however, as the cold, tempestuous wind blew through her wet fur, she felt her teeth chattering. ¡°Why the hell would Genesis make this?!¡±


    Right then, she felt a sensation from Genesis: panic. That, or perhaps the weather, made her blood run cold, whatever had just happened to her, he didn¡¯t intend for it.


    She turned around and ran, straight into a wall of ice. She stumbled back and once again found herself in the snow, adding to the freezing pain. She looked up, and saw that the ice was jagged, as if falling water froze in mid-air.


    It had to be a nightmare. It must have been because she strayed too far from Genesis¡­ But it was all a dream. She closed her eyes and curled up, holding her arms close in a feeble attempt to preserve what little body heat she still had. She would wake any second, it would all be over, and the first thing she would do is to convince Shaquia to have another sauna with her, she would be warm again when she opened her eyes¡­


    But it never happened. When her eyes shot open from the glacial shock coursing through her body, she was still in the tundra, in front of the wall with the cold wind¡¯s relentless assault.


    She slowly straightened up and punched against the ice, she could even see the slippery tunnel behind it. So tantalisingly close, yet she couldn¡¯t break through. She bent her head backwards and screamed into the sky. ¡°GENESIS!¡± She hoped, prayed that he would come save her in time, she peered into the ice once more, and saw her reflection. She stood there, wet and freezing, small icicles hanging from her whiskers and fur, ice starting to form at the end of her tail. She was there for less than a minute, and her condition was rapidly getting worse. She couldn¡¯t wait for Genesis.


    She placed her hand against the ice, finding it harder to straighten her fingers fully, and lit up her markings. Water and acid dripped down from the wall, which wasn¡¯t melting nearly fast enough.


    ¡°Genesis!¡± She yelled once more, trying to melt the ice. She tried again and again, pressing her hands against the wall, feeling that they may just be getting deeper in. One more try¡­ She pulled on her hands, only to find the frozen to the wall.


    Her panic intensified as she tried her hardest to free her hands, eventually banging her head on the ice in one more desperate attempt to break it. The only thing that broke, was her will. She cried tears that froze before they even had the chance to hit the ground, and she slid down into the snow, her voice growing fainter. ¡°Ge¡­ ne... sis¡­¡± She had trouble even feeling his emotions, or even her hands and feet, from the cold. This couldn¡¯t have been his doing, she was sure of that.


    She knelt down, resigned to her fate, her end, Genesis¡¯ end.


    End¡­


    This couldn¡¯t have been her end.


    If life was a spiral, she knew for sure that this wasn¡¯t even the middle, let alone the end of it. She didn¡¯t care how it happened, but she would get out of the tundra, she would get to the natural end of her life¡¯s spiral, the innermost curve, the moment it stopped, and she wouldn¡¯t let it be this moment.


    Shivering and chattering, Solomon got up on her feet, and thought of this spiral of her life, the endless spiral of Genesis¡¯ afterlife, spinning motion of an icy blizzard tornado that wouldn¡¯t take her. She focused on it, and one more time, she powered up her magic, keeping focus on the ice which froze over her hands.


    She then felt it, inside the ice, she could move her fingers! She wanted to be happy, overjoyed that she was making progress, something she couldn¡¯t allow herself at that moment. She kept her mind on the idea, a spiral, her markings, Genesis; and she felt that her hands could move again. The water that made up the ice was turning to acid!


    She kept it up, snuffing out any emotion, any thought that wasn¡¯t related to a spiral, and when she opened her eyes, she saw her progress: a hole in the wall of ice, just big enough for her to fit through, the sides of which looked as if a drill had bored through it.


    ¡°Y¡­e¡­s¡­¡±


    She gathered up her last remaining bit of strength and grasped the inner side of the wall, pulling herself through the hole. She fell through, and to the floor, where she collapsed against the slanted icy ground. She saw her breath in the cold air, her consciousness fading, despite her best efforts. Before she finally gave in, she heard a new sound that wasn¡¯t the wind: bone against stone.


    She closed her eyes and smiled weakly, putting her fate into the skeletal hand of Genesis. Before long, she felt such a hand grasp her arm, panicked, scared, and awkward. She then felt her body sliding once again, upward this time as Genesis climbed up the slope while pulling her. She had no idea how he was doing it, nor did she care, for she was saved.


    She soon felt the comparatively scalding water hit down on her, Genesis adjusted her so that she wouldn¡¯t drown. On the way back, perhaps due to the speed at which she was brought out, the tunnel felt much longer.


    When she finally heard the sound of rushing water away from her, she knew that she was out. Dream or not, it felt all too real. Genesis brought her to the grassy clearing where they had trained, and there, she could finally sit up. She didn¡¯t feel her hands, tail, ears, or just about any part of herself, but she was relieved. She curled up once more, putting her arms over her knees to try and warm up.


    She looked to the side and saw Genesis gathering acid from the water. When he had a good amount of it wrapped around his bones, he brought it all forward and fashioned it into the shape of a sheet. He then rushed over to Solomon and put it over her, as if it was a blanket.


    The warm acid felt sublime against her cold fur, she was pretty sure it even turned the ice on her into more of the green liquid. Genesis had to hold the acid blanket against her, which he apparently wasn¡¯t too much of a fan of, but did it for her anyway to keep it all together.


    ¡°Thank¡­ You¡­¡± She finally managed to say through her chattering teeth, which resulted in a warm feeling from Genesis, something she definitely needed.


    She sat there with the skeletal feline standing above her, radiating that awkwardness nonetheless for a good few minutes. She didn¡¯t say anything, more because of her chattering than anything, until she finally felt her extremities again. She let out a long sigh of relief, which Genesis found just as relieving.


    ¡°What¡­ Was that?¡± She turned her head and asked.


    Genesis shrugged his shoulders, confused.


    ¡°You don¡¯t know?¡± She asked a little more loudly.


    The ancient scholar merely shook his head as a response.


    ¡°But if it wasn¡¯t you¡­¡± She took a moment to think about what it could possibly mean, but quickly gave up on it. She looked down and saw that Genesis made a little writing into the blanket. ¡°Clever!¡± She exclaimed and lit up her markings.


    ¡°I think that is enough dreams for one day.¡± The translated text read.


    ¡°Hold on, I still have something to do! Unwrap me!¡± She instructed, to which Genesis obliged. While she was still a bit chilly and uncomfortable, Solomon could at least stand. She then stretched her limbs and put her dress back on, much to Genesis¡¯ delight. She turned around to face Genesis, who had been looking at the sky rather than her, and she hugged his skeletal body tightly. His slight awkwardness persisted, despite everything.


    ¡°Thank you, Genesis¡­ My friend.¡± She said with tearful eyes, immensely grateful, which the skeleton no doubt felt. He let her express her gratitude with a hug, and Solomon then felt two skeletal arms around her back as well, a hint of that warm feeling coupled with him calming down. She felt his embrace tighten, as he gave in to the hug more. There was no sense of love, lust, or anything of such sort, Genesis hugged her much like how a child would hug his plush toy, for no reason other than comfort.


    ¡°Hey¡­¡± She said as she finally let go of him. ¡°You know where to find me if you need a hug.¡± She smiled, and even though his expression couldn¡¯t change much, she just knew that if he could have, Genesis would have smiled back.


    ¡°I guess it¡¯s time to wake up.¡± She suggested. ¡°Although I was having trouble doing that earlier¡­¡±


    In response, Genesis nodded and snapped his fingers. The next thing she knew, Solomon was back in her bed. She was ready to start the day, again, but there was something she couldn¡¯t help but notice: a lingering sense of cold.

 Chapter 40 - Polar Opposites

    Crack-crackle crack.


    ¡°So this is it, huh¡­ I never would have thought I¡¯d go out this way. Maybe after a totally wicked investigation in a showdown with the bad guy. Funny thing about fiction, it always ends well. That just ain¡¯t true of reality.¡±


    Crackle-crack, crackle-crack.


    ¡°What a total fuckin¡¯ disappointment. Roxy doesn¡¯t deserve to go through this, Thali shouldn¡¯t have another friend whacked by some shady wankers¡­ Alan, if you¡¯re somehow still out there, please find her. Mum doesn¡¯t deserve this pain either, first her husband and now her daughter¡­ I hope you¡¯re happy, Dad. I especially don¡¯t deserve this! I just wanted¡­ Wanted to¡­¡±


    Crack. Crack. Crack.


    ¡°Light at the end of the tunnel. Yeah, right. Like whatever¡¯s above would want me to go up into the sky. So much is left unfinished¡­ So much time I could have spent with Roxy, Thali, Yaro, Father, anyone if it wasn¡¯t for you, Shaquia. Ya total cunt. Go to hell, like I will. Dickhead.¡±


    Crackle-crack, crack. Crackle.


    ¡°Fuck, I don¡¯t want this¡­ This darkness¡­ That¡¯s it? That¡¯s all I get? That¡¯s all you¡¯re keepin¡¯ me alive for, dammit?! Come on, I¡¯m ready, just fuckin¡¯ take me already! Anything, anything is better than nothing! Are you afraid to burn me ¡®cause I¡¯m immune to fire? Well, are ya? I dare you, I DARE you to try it. I need to feel something¡­ Anything but this cold¡­ Please, I can¡¯t go on like this! I can¡¯t¡­¡±


    Crackle. Crack-crack-crackle.


    ¡°I can¡¯t¡­¡±


    Crackle. Crack. Crack.


    ¡°I can¡¯t¡­¡±


    ¡°Crack... Crack¡­ Crack¡­¡±


    ¡°I¡­ Can¡¯t¡­¡±


    CRACKLE.


    Lisa was startled awake by the loud thud of a metal door shutting closed. Tied to a chair, wide-eyed with an aching head, she looked at her remarkably dire surroundings. She was in an old, empty room with a concrete floor and brick walls. Before her stood three birds: the buzzard, who was possibly a Metal One, another bird with a long, thin beak, and the owl, smugly looming at the door. Lisa felt her heartbeat quicken as the buzzard approached her and bent down over her. ¡°How the hell am I getting out of this¡­ Concrete ain¡¯t nearly conductive enough. Do they¡­ Even know about my magic? He wouldn¡¯t stand so damn close if he did.¡±


    ¡°Name?¡± The buzzard¡¯s gravelly voice took Lisa by surprise, or rather, his choice of language. ¡°So they really could understand me.¡± She took some deep breaths in order to best calm herself. After a few brief seconds, she lowered her head and made her hands into fists, so tantalisingly close to being able to knock the buzzard out.


    ¡°What¡¯s that matter to you?¡± She finally said, trying to sound like she wasn¡¯t terrified for her life. That she would¡­ ¡°Yaro, Alex! Please, please be safe, I don¡¯t care how, just please¡­¡±


    The long-beak bird looked at the owl, who just shrugged. The buzzard asked something, and it resulted in a conversation much too long for Lisa¡¯s liking. She couldn¡¯t understand a single word. ¡°Even if the floor was wet gold, it wouldn¡¯t mean a damn thing. I don¡¯t know what that owl¡¯s power is, but it sure as hell includes electricity.¡±


    Once the conversation was over, the buzzard asked another question. ¡°Who sent you?¡± To that, Lisa wasn¡¯t even sure what to say in response. ¡°Massive dickhead or not, I ain¡¯t throwing Shaquia under the bus. What¡¯s the most generic reason to be here¡­ Something bureaucratic, no¡­ Just went for a stroll! Nah, they ain¡¯t that dense. Maybe¡­¡±


    The buzzard looked over at the owl, who nodded back at him. He then turned back and cracked his knuckles, and it sounded more like a metallic crunch.


    ¡°Wait! I can-¡± Lisa began, and was hit square in the chest so hard that it knocked the wind out of her. She gasped for breath as she was punched twice more in the head with a noticeable clang each time, the latter of which with such force that she fell to the side with the chair.


    ¡°Let¡¯s try again.¡± The buzzard got down on one knee beside her. ¡°Name?¡±


    Lisa struggled for air through the pains in her chest and face, gripping the edges of the chair. ¡°There¡¯s no getting out of this¡­¡± The buzzard then stood up impatiently and wound back his leg for a kick.


    ¡°Lisa!!¡± The wolf said after a panicked gasp. ¡°My name¡­ Is Lisa.¡±


    That seemed to please the buzzard enough and he got back down beside her. ¡°That¡¯s better. Who sent you?¡±


    ¡°I¡­¡± Lisa began to say immediately, deciding not to overthink it. ¡°I was sent here to look for someone who went missing. Hyena.¡±


    ¡°Police?¡± The owl¡¯s deep, intimidating voice was heard from the door.


    ¡°It¡¯s¡­ Not quite.¡± Lisa replied.


    ¡°Police.¡± The owl said again, then said something else to the buzzard. To her surprise, he then cut the ropes that kept her tied to the chair. ¡°Oh, you¡­¡±


    From the owl¡¯s left fingers shot two purple arcs with a crack-crackle and it connected with Lisa¡¯s wrists. Just then, she noticed two things: her hat was missing, and that a metal ring had been put on each of her wrists, as well as on her ankles. Despite that, she could stand up. The owl opened the door and walked outside, leading her by the arcs.


    ¡°I can walk just fine!¡± She complained. The owl then yanked on the arcs hard, causing her to fall over and be dragged on the floor. ¡°You¡¯re so fucking dead once I figure out how¡­¡±


    Outside the small room, Lisa finally saw where she was. All around her were heavy machinery, conveyor belts, large metal poles and beams, blurry industrial-grade windows, furnaces, everything that made the facility what it was: a steel mill.


    The air inside was just as cold as it had been outside, as was the floor, but she noticed how the building actually had some lighting. ¡°Guess some birds can¡¯t see so well in the dark.¡± She tried her best to look around as she was dragged, and she could surmise that the gang meant serious business. She had a peek for maybe a couple moments through a door that was ajar, and inside she saw guns, identical to the ones Alexander found at the hill, lined up on racks. Lisa¡¯s chances of making it out grew ever thinner with that revelation, as well as each metre of concrete floor she was dragged across. Sure, the clothing protected her well enough, but it still wasn¡¯t pleasant.


    She looked up at one of the many sets of conveyor belts, and saw that the gang even did a little decorating. Embedded in-between the gears were metal rods, and their tops, skulls of various species, one of which was missing all of its teeth. Not a single beaked one though. Worse than that, the sheer number of people she saw just ambling about, either keeping guard or going from room to room for reasons Lisa didn¡¯t want to know. All wielding weapons, of course. Lisa tried her best to observe her surroundings, and found that the building itself was so big that she didn¡¯t even see an entrance. She saw many doors, but she couldn¡¯t imagine that a steel mill would have an exit so small. ¡°Doors Yaro and Alex could be behind¡­ Damn. Guess he can finally see what the building he was sent to demolish so often looks like.¡±


    The owl then turned right, and after making absolutely sure that the arcs don¡¯t connect with the walls, dragged Lisa to another metal door. The buzzard and long-beak accompanied him all the way. He then lifted up his hand and with it, Lisa rose up on her feet. With another finger¡¯s purple arc, he opened the metal door and positioned the wolf in front of it. He then let go. Lisa didn¡¯t even have time to think before she felt a forceful kick on her back, followed by the metal door being closed behind her.


    Once more on the floor, she got on her hands and knees, unfathomably angry. ¡°Oh, fuck¡­¡± She complained and lifted her head. In that dingy room, she saw to her left a bunk bed, and on that bunk bed were two bats. ¡°Oh. Fuck.¡±


    ¡°Look who the owl dragged in.¡± Rufina said from the bottom bunk, on her stomach, waggling her legs in boredom.


    ¡°What are YOU doing here?¡± Haemon¡¯s side-eyed sneer met Lisa¡¯s gaze from the top one, his red eyes staring at her with utmost malevolence. Or at least Lisa sure felt like it. He wore similar iron bracelets and anklets. Not his sister, though.The genuine version of this novel can be found on another site. Support the author by reading it there.


    ¡°I¡¯m surprised you remember me.¡± Lisa got up on her feet, putting on a brave face.


    ¡°How could I ever forget someone with clothes THAT tacky?¡± He remarked.


    ¡°Oh, it¡¯s on.¡± Lisa bared her claws with a glare as she prepared for an imminent confrontation. Rufina looked way more concerned for Lisa than her brother.


    ¡°Finally! Time to settle this!¡± Haemon jumped down from the bed and landed with a graceful crouch, then placed one claw against his wrist.


    ¡°Stooop!¡± Cried a slightly higher-pitched voice from behind Lisa, causing both her and Haemon to pause. ¡°Stop! Stoy! Don¡¯t do it, STOP!¡± A new, rather skinny person then fearfully, yet hastily stepped between the two, holding up a gloved hand at each of them. He wore black winter clothes, as well as the iron bracelets, and a grey beanie hat that covered his right eye. Even then, Lisa could tell one thing: he was a hyena who couldn¡¯t have been more than thirty. ¡°All I wanted was a simple life, and now I¡¯m stuck here with you evil men!¡± He said, fidgety and anxious in demeanour.


    Haemon scoffed. ¡°I¡¯m not evil.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not even a man.¡± Lisa frowned.


    ¡°You aren¡¯t?¡± The hyena asked, then shook his head before Lisa could voice her complaints. ¡°Listen, I don¡¯t care who you are, I need you!¡±


    ¡°Now hold on there, mate¡­¡± Lisa began to say, confident that the hyena was exactly who she was looking for.


    ¡°Why would SHE be important to you?¡± Haemon questioned.


    ¡°You have history? So what? I can finally leave!¡± The hyena said more quietly.


    ¡°Whoa, whoa, before we do anything¡­¡± Lisa took a step away from Haemon. ¡°Your name¡¯s Alexei¡­ V, innit?¡±


    ¡°In what?¡± He asked in a tone so innocent, Lisa would have found it adorable in a different context.


    ¡°Are you Alexei or not?¡± The wolf demanded.


    ¡°I am! Are you done?¡± He rubbed his hands together, beginning to look impatient.


    ¡°Okay¡­ Let me see your hands.¡± Lisa asked, just to be sure.


    ¡°I, you¡­ Okay?¡± A little more confused, he then removed his woolly gloves. Sure enough, on his hands were streaks of white, unmistakable light for a hyena.


    Lisa smiled, finally satisfied. The bats, however, looked at her with disappointment, as if to say ¡°We know that already. Idiot.¡±


    ¡°Happy now?¡± Alexei nodded at them repeatedly, without leaving any time for anyone to respond. ¡°Good! Get me out and you can kill each other all you want!¡±


    ¡°Oi, who said I¡¯m working with Dracula and his sister?¡± Lisa felt frankly offended by the mere idea of forming even a rudimentary team with the people who want to take people¡¯s light.


    ¡°Watch your mouth, lupine.¡± Haemon said with a disapproving glare, rage burning behind his red eyes.


    ¡°Are you stupid?¡± Alexei held his hands against the sides of his head, exasperated.


    Lisa ignored the hyena. ¡°How about you watch your fuckin¡¯ mouth¡­ Bat¡­ ine¡­¡± She said, her voice reaching the exact opposite of a crescendo with embarrassment.


    ¡°Well-mannered AND educated, aren¡¯t you?¡± Haemon said with a mocking smirk, which only made Lisa want to fight him more.


    ¡°You¡¯re so done¡­¡± She took a step towards him in an attempt to intimidate.


    Alexei shook his head in frustration. ¡°Okay. Time¡¯s up. Flash!¡±


    ¡°Wha-¡± Was all Lisa managed to say before Alexei put up his hands, and then shined his light in a bright flash, leaving both her and Haemon blinded.


    ¡°Children! Stupid children! Just listen to me!¡± The hyena practically begged as the other two rubbed their eyes until, after a few seconds, they could finally see again. The first thing Lisa saw was Rufina, who didn¡¯t get blinded, waving to her in an oddly friendly manner.


    Right then, someone banged on the closed metal door, yelling in Russian. Alexei walked up to the door. He walked much like he acted, in an anxious, skulky way, as if suspicious of anything and anyone around him. In the meantime, she noticed another bunk bed on which Alexei likely slept, as well as another door on the opposite side of where she had entered.


    ¡°Da.¡± The hyena replied simply, eyeing the rest as he fiddled with his hands. One more sentence from the bird outside that Lisa couldn¡¯t understand and Alexei skulked his way back to the bed on the left. ¡°Be quiet. They hate noise.¡±


    ¡°Back on topic¡­¡± Rufina sat up in bed and glanced at her brother, looking a little too comfortable in her thick clothes. ¡°I hate outsiders as much as you do, dear brother, but they can be useful sometimes.¡±


    ¡°No way.¡± Lisa insisted, albeit more softly. ¡°You really think I can just not fight you after all you¡¯ve¡­¡± She then felt Alexei¡¯s light on the sides of her head. She turned around curiously. ¡°What are you doing?¡±


    ¡°Patching you up.¡± He answered with a slight smile, slightly swaying with his whole body. ¡°You look terrible.¡±


    Weird or not, the light was definitely a sight for sore eyes, or head, rather. Lisa let him continue and turned back to the bats. ¡°Point is, you guys are total wankers. How could you take people¡¯s light for that deranged fox guy? Vulpine, even?¡±


    ¡°You do what now?¡± Alexei asked, tilting his head to the side to see them better.


    ¡°You may see him as such, but it¡¯s still better than some people.¡± Rufina argued, seemingly unbothered by Lisa¡¯s remarks. ¡°He actually treated me when I needed it. He was and still is free of your so-called ¡°organisation¡±.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not even with them!¡± Lisa claimed.


    ¡°Then why are you here?¡± Haemon shot her an accusatory glance.


    ¡°I¡¯m an investigator, why do you think?¡± Lisa said with offence in her voice.


    ¡°Shaquie¡¯s standards have really dropped lately.¡± Rufina remarked.


    ¡°No, her¡­¡± Lisa paused. ¡°How do you know she¡¯s their new boss?¡±


    ¡°Come on, like the others are competent enough for that.¡± Rufina waved dismissively.


    ¡°If you¡¯re not with them, how do YOU know she¡¯s the new boss?¡± Haemon asked impatiently.


    Lisa had to admit, it was a big mistake to say what she did. She wanted to have more time to think about a good enough excuse, but was met with Alexei in front of her. At least her head didn¡¯t hurt anymore.


    ¡°This is going nowhere!¡± He quietly complained, looking from one party to the other. ¡°You are talking in circles! And too much! Listen¡­¡± He pointed at the two bats. ¡°I want to get out. Are you in?¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡± Haemon said immediately.


    ¡°As long as you join us after.¡± Rufina offered.


    ¡°I don¡¯t care where I am as long as it isn''t here!¡± Alexei exclaimed, then turned towards Lisa. ¡°Are you in?¡±


    ¡°You can¡¯t just tell them that-¡± She said, but was cut off.


    ¡°Simple answer!¡± He put his hands against the sides of her head. ¡°Da or no?¡±


    Lisa opened her mouth, but nothing came out. He looked Alexei in the eyes, or at least the one that wasn¡¯t covered by his hat, then at the bats. No matter what was said, Haemon always had that slight frown in his visage, which creeped her out even more up close. The things Lisa knew and Solomon had told her about what they did for Luxor¡­ She couldn¡¯t excuse that. However, if Rufina offered to help Solomon escape¡­ ¡°It¡¯s not like she actually got around to doing that. Fuck, every part of this is just such a headache¡­¡±


    ¡°I¡­ I need to think about it.¡± Lisa finally said, causing Alexei to grip the sides of his head, take a pillow from Rufina¡¯s bed, and scream into it.


    ¡°Ha.¡± Haemon climbed back up in his section and lay there with his arms crossed. Haemon¡­ Lisa wanted to take revenge on him so much after what he had done to Solomon and likely countless others. She couldn¡¯t act so fast, however, not this time. ¡°But he¡¯s right here¡­ It would be so easy¡­¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll just lie down a sec, alright?¡± Pensive, Lisa then went to the bunk bed on the right and for the bottom bunk.


    ¡°Hey, that bed-¡± Alexei whipped around, his tail almost hitting Rufina accidentally.


    ¡°Mate, let me tell ya about these beds.¡± Lisa briefly turned back. ¡°For one, they¡¯re just fuckin¡¯ stupid. Also, if you come home and want to climb a ladder to sleep, well good for ya, but that ain¡¯t for me.¡± With that, Lisa then sat down, then quickly lay back on the bed¡ªand felt a sharp pain across her back. She practically jumped up from it with a yelp.


    ¡°What the hell?!¡± She moaned.


    ¡°I was going to tell you!¡± Alexei leaned back, arms outstretched in the wolf¡¯s direction. All the while, Haemon chuckled. ¡°I put my¡­ Things. There.¡±


    ¡°What?¡± Lisa raised an eyebrow and decided to investigate. She removed the blanket, flipped the mattress to its side, and found a zipper. After opening it, she immediately saw what caused her the pain; a broom, which she pulled out.


    ¡°Ouch.¡± Rufina remarked, albeit amused. Haemon was still chuckling, much too entertained.


    ¡°...what?¡± Lisa said to Alexei. ¡°Why?¡±


    ¡°Yeah¡­¡± He fiddled with his hands, trying to keep out of direct sight.


    Lisa looked back inside the mattress, and found even more items. A pen, chisel, an unused toothbrush, a photo of a car, a bowler hat that Lisa promptly put on, a playing card set held together with a rubber band, one very sturdy lightbulb, three pieces of paper, the spinning part of a fan, empty shell casings, and even some teeth. Haemon¡¯s chuckling stopped by the fourth thing she pulled out and he just became more and more concerned for the hyena.


    ¡°There¡¯s so much more¡­¡± Lisa said, more to herself, then glanced at the very guilty-looking hyena. ¡°What the fuck, Alex?¡± Sure, she heard that he was a thief, but this was just overdoing it. ¡°Calling him Alex may get complicated, but I¡¯ll deal with that when I get there. If the other Alex is even alive¡­¡±


    ¡°I, uh¡­ It¡¯s¡­ Hard to explain?¡± Alexei said with an awkward smile, swaying.


    ¡°Why do you need all that?¡± Rufina asked with a mix of worry and curiosity.


    ¡°Because I¡­ Don¡¯t?¡± He rubbed the back of his head. ¡°Honestly, I sometimes see something. I know I don''t need it. I know I won¡¯t use it. But I just¡­ Have to take it. I have to! And I feel better.¡±


    Lisa finally came to a realisation. ¡°Boy¡¯s a kleptomaniac. That explains a bit.¡± People called him a thief, she thought he was a thief, but to be fair, Lisa just felt kind of bad for him now.


    ¡°Please seek help after this, Alex.¡± She advised. ¡°How¡¯d ya even get all this here?¡±


    ¡°I can hide things well.¡± He shrugged.


    ¡°Right.¡± Lisa then cleaned out the mattress enough, made the bed, and she finally lay down to collect her thoughts.


    ¡°Okay, we rest, then we talk.¡± Alexei looked from one bed to the other multiple times before he nodded and climbed up to his bunk. ¡°Don¡¯t kill each other. Please.¡± He said specifically in  Haemon¡¯s and Lisa¡¯s direction before winding down.

 Chapter 41 - Unyielding

    The second day that Solomon was invited for properly started when she woke up in her designated room. She wasn¡¯t sure if she should mention what she had experienced the night before to Shaquia, or anyone, for that matter. Even for a dream, it made no sense to her. Those four pillars¡­ Even just recalling the events sent a chill down her spine.


    Sitting on the bed, she put forward a hand and let acid collect in her palm. ¡°Let¡¯s see if I really improved.¡± She closed her eyes and concentrated, she mentally put herself back in that icy hellscape and thought of the idea of a spiral, her life, and Genesis¡¯ unlife. She focused, near-meditative, and when she opened her eyes, nothing had happened to the acid.


    ¡°What?¡± She said out loud and tried again, to the same effect. Annoyed, she called on her companion¡¯s help. ¡°Genesis¡­ Could you do that?¡±


    Without missing a beat, Genesis formed the acid into the shape of a spiral with such ease that she hardly even noticed it. It was little solace after what she did in her dream, but she discovered that she could still hold the shape for about five seconds in the real world after Genesis stopped controlling it. Regardless, she stood up and with a sigh, went to start the day, whatever it may hold for her.


    ¡°Oh, Sssolomon!¡± The feline heard the words of an energetic Samuel right after she left the room. ¡°You¡¯re awake! Jussst in time.¡±


    Solomon wasn¡¯t exactly excited to meet with a Frost One after that night. ¡°For what?¡± She asked. If nothing else, at least she felt rested, despite everything.


    ¡°A meeting.¡± He explained concisely. ¡°I¡¯ve heard that catsss can sssleep for a long time, but wow!¡±


    ¡°How long did I sleep?¡± She asked and took out her phone to check the time. It was already close to the evening. ¡°I slept through the whole day?!¡±


    ¡°I wasss coming to wake you for the meeting.¡± The snake made a beckoning motion with his tail. ¡°Come, Ssshaquia isss waiting!¡±


    ¡°I¡­ Alright.¡± Solomon briefly rubbed her temples and followed after Samuel. Sure, time can move differently in dreams, but even then¡­ Someone was supposed to wake her when she was needed. ¡°It sure took them a long time.¡±


    They went down to room 26 on the second floor once more, and this time were met with Shaquia, Benedict, and Catherine. Solomon made a slight smile and waved.


    ¡°Everyone¡¯s here? Good.¡± The snow lynx said wearily, but looking considerably less dishevelled than before. ¡°We can finally get started.¡±


    ¡°What about Sheila and-¡± Solomon began to say.


    ¡°They went to help our little team of three, should they need it.¡± Catherine cut her off. Genesis¡¯ dislike towards her only grew. ¡°I only have business with you four anyway.¡±


    Solomon sighed and sat down at the chair farthest from the opossum. Samuel sat next to her.


    ¡°Firstly, Grayson sent us some new info on the Lightborn.¡± Shaquia announced in a calm voice. ¡°There¡¯s an antelope there who¡¯s the reason why they get their supplies. She also has strange, disappearing dark markings, as he put it. We need to devise a plan to remove her from the perimeter and get a chance to look at those markings for ourselves.¡±


    ¡°Something covert then, since the last operation went so poorly?¡± Benedict recommended.


    ¡°That¡¯s obvious, dear.¡± Catherine retorted. ¡°You wouldn¡¯t happen to know anyone who can move swiftly through the night?¡± She tried much too hard to look amicable and ended up sounding more condescending as a result.


    ¡°I mean¡­¡± Said Solomon, and everyone looked at her expectantly. She wasn¡¯t a fan of that. ¡°There¡¯s Lumi, but I don¡¯t think she¡¯ll help us.¡±


    ¡°Ugh, that girl¡­¡± Catherine rolled her eyes. ¡°If she and Thalia would just cooperate, I feel like we wouldn¡¯t be in this mess.¡±


    ¡°It can¡¯t be helped.¡± Said Shaquia. ¡°We can¡¯t force them to work for us.¡±


    ¡°Maybe Solomon, dear, could do it. Maybe better this time.¡± The opossum suggested, which made the feline¡¯s hand twitch. ¡°I feel like we aren¡¯t utilising her powers to the fullest extent.¡±


    ¡°D¨¦sol¨¦.¡± Solomon frowned. ¡°Still working on that.¡±


    ¡°We can¡¯t rush her learning.¡± Shaquia shook her head. ¡°Is writing in Mystic not enough?¡±


    That was one experiment Solomon didn¡¯t want to think about. Genesis did his best to explain how she should just ¡°let the magic do the talking¡± by infusing the very letters she wrote, but she couldn¡¯t get a single symbol to work properly. He, on the other hand, made it look so easy! That was at least enough to convince people like Catherine that she, in fact, could do it.


    ¡°All I¡¯m saying is that maybe she should try harder.¡± Catherine added. Solomon found her right hand curling into a fist.


    ¡°What did you want, Cath?¡± Said Benedict, seeing Solomon¡¯s growing discomfort. ¡°Maybe that¡¯d be easier to discuss.¡±


    ¡°Finances and potential ventures, of course.¡± The opossum replied. ¡°Now that Ludwig¡¯s gone, we need new ways to keep the less profitable fronts up. And I have just the thing-¡±


    ¡°That can wait until after we¡¯re done with this.¡± Shaquia interrupted.


    ¡°I have a quessstion.¡± Samuel asked with a rather confused look on his face. ¡°Why am I needed here? Thisss looksss like sssomething for a professssional, long-time member.¡±


    ¡°But you are!¡± Said Catherine. ¡°A part of us for years. Now you¡¯ll be a part of our plans and we get to take advantage of your powers, you¡¯re just as important as the rest of us.¡±


    Shaquia shot her a side-eye glance. ¡°What Cath means is that you can consider this as part of your training. You¡¯ll be a valuable part of us, I¡¯m sure.¡±


    ¡°The other Frost Ones also like having you around.¡± Benedict argued.


    The snake leaned back and listened. He wasn¡¯t too excited about his position, Solomon could tell, but he looked like he could deal with that.


    ¡°Do you think thisss Luksssor can sssurvive my frossst?¡± Samuel asked, his icy breath visible in the air.


    ¡°I don¡¯t think True Frost ever clashed with light this powerful before.¡± Shaquia recalled. ¡°It¡¯s an option, but I don¡¯t want to risk your life doing that.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t really want to hurt people, but I can make an eksssception. If he hasss lassserssss¡­¡± Samuel said, then formed a piece of ice on his hand and rubbed on it once with the other. He showed his palm to the people present, and it was a smooth, reflective surface. ¡°We could ussse mirrorsss?¡±


    Shaquia looked impressed. ¡°And you say you¡¯re not cut out for this.¡±


    ¡°But wait!¡± Catherine said with sudden panic, which earned her a curious look from the rest. ¡°I mean¡­¡± She cleared her throat. ¡°It¡¯s magical light. There¡¯s a chance it works differently, non? We can¡¯t risk that, can we?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s true, Cath.¡± Shaquia agreed. ¡°We can¡¯t just send him in like that. We don¡¯t want and can¡¯t afford another¡­ Incident.¡±


    ¡°Hey, if Samuel¡¯s True Frost, and Thalia¡¯s True Darkness¡­¡± Solomon spoke up. ¡°How would Lumi react to them both?¡± She felt Genesis¡¯ curiosity and intrigue.


    ¡°I¡¯ve been thinking about that myself.¡± Said the lynx. ¡°But if they don¡¯t want to cooperate and you don¡¯t want us to push it, it¡¯s not worth mentioning.¡±


    ¡°Well maybe¡­¡± The cat briefly glanced at Samuel. ¡°I can make an exception as well. For an experiment!¡± She said with newfound enthusiasm. Even the snake looked a little bit curious about it.


    Catherine cleared her throat again and pulled on the collar of her white suit. ¡°Are you sure that¡¯s necessary? Or safe?¡±


    ¡°Cath, it was your idea to send Lisa after that Bright One, don¡¯t pretend like you¡¯re not above this.¡± Shaquia argued as Benedict raised an eyebrow at the opossum. ¡°And Solomon, if you can convince them to take part in that for the sake of magic, not us, we would all be grateful. We¡¯ve yet to observe such an effect in person anyway.¡± The lynx had been looking forward to saying that, that much was obvious. The promises she had made to Solomon, it was holding back the organisation in certain ventures. Solomon knew that. Under normal circumstances, the cat wouldn¡¯t even have thought about such an idea, but during a crisis like Luxor growing more bold in his actions, it was high time to do something more pragmatic than emotional.


    ¡°I don¡¯t think they¡¯ll be too happy about it.¡± Solomon remarked. ¡°But I¡¯ll try. If I can¡¯t convince them¡­ Maybe Lisa can, but we have to wait for that.¡±


    ¡°But if you can¡¯t, that¡¯s fine too.¡± Catherine said with an awkward smile.


    ¡°What¡¯s with you today, Cath?¡± Benedict asked with a concerned look. ¡°You said you wanted them to help us.¡±


    Genesis found their bickering much too entertaining for Solomon¡¯s liking. ¡°I¡¯ll¡­ Just ask her in private, give me a minute.¡± She stood up and went to the door as Benedict and Catherine went on about something Solomon wasn¡¯t nearly focused on enough to hear. She did hear something else, though.


    ¡°Thank you, Solomon.¡± Said Shaquia, just loud enough for her to hear.


    The feline took out her phone as she closed the door, and to her delight, hardly anyone was on the second floor in that area. Andreas also wasn¡¯t present to listen in on her conversation, so she looked through her contacts and called Thalia. It rang once, twice, and after the third ring, the panther posing as a leopard finally picked up.


    ¡°Hey, Thalia?¡± Solomon said in the friendliest voice she could muster.


    ¡°Hey Solomon, I¡¯m at work, so please make it quick.¡± Thalia replied, the sound of a bustling restaurant was heard in the background. The cat really didn¡¯t like the possibility of someone overhearing either of them, but it was much too important to wait.


    ¡°It¡¯s about magic, you and Lumi.¡± She said a little more sheepishly.


    ¡°Ugh.¡± That already discouraged Solomon immensely. ¡°Does it have to do with your wack new boss?¡±


    ¡°She¡¯s not my¡­¡± The more Solomon thought about it, the more she agreed that Shaquia felt a lot like a new boss indeed. ¡°Just listen to me, we found¡­ Like, your equivalent in frost. We want to test one thing, just to see how it works.¡±


    Thalia sighed. ¡°Really, Solomon? I thought you were better than this.¡±


    ¡°This isn¡¯t for them!¡± The cat claimed. ¡°It¡¯s not for me either, it¡¯s for magic as a whole! Just one test, for magic! Can you do that?¡±


    ¡°We agreed that I won¡¯t come and help those nutcases, didn¡¯t we?¡± Thalia retorted, growing more annoyed.


    ¡°Seven.¡± Solomon stated in a colder tone. ¡°That¡¯s how many Bright Ones disappeared because of the Lightborn. Those people had families and friends. We may not know them, but those families are waiting, praying that their loved ones one day might return. Sounds familiar?¡± She felt Genesis¡¯ dislike towards what she said. ¡°I know, I don¡¯t like bringing this up, but maybe she¡¯ll understand¡­ Please!¡±


    The author''s content has been appropriated; report any instances of this story on Amazon.


    Thalia didn¡¯t respond, but Solomon could still hear the sounds of the restaurant.


    ¡°I won¡¯t ask you to help with that, but this test could be the first step to stop them! It would help us protect Bright Ones once and for all!¡± The cat said energetically. ¡°One time. That¡¯s all I ask, and I¡¯ll owe you one.¡±


    For a few more seconds, there was nothing from Thalia. When she did say something, it definitely wasn¡¯t convincing.


    ¡°You really went that low, huh?¡± She grumbled with great disappointment, which scared Solomon and left Genesis disgruntled. ¡°You really thought you could convince me with this?¡±


    Solomon leaned back against the wall, feeling defeated. Not just that, but also possibly having lost a friend. ¡°That was a stupid idea! Why did I even¡­¡±


    ¡°Well, you can.¡± The panther said through a quiet sob. ¡°I can¡¯t find him. I know I can¡¯t, but if this really would be so helpful¡­ I¡¯ll ask Lumi.¡±


    ¡°Really!¡± Solomon said with joy, she could feel that Genesis was pleased, confident. ¡°Thalia¡­ I¡¯ll do anything you want in return, thank you so, so much!¡±


    Thalia sniffled and took a moment to calm herself.. ¡°And don¡¯t you forget it.¡± She said with a giggle. ¡°My house could use a new paint job.¡±


    ¡°I thought you liked to paint?¡± Solomon commented.


    ¡°I paint bodies, not walls.¡± Said Thalia. ¡°So, deal?¡±


    ¡°What colour do you want your walls to be?¡± Solomon replied, and it was all the panther needed.


    ¡°Same as now, just a little darker so Lumi and I feel that much more at home.¡± Thalia sounded beyond pleased with the cat¡¯s answer.


    ¡°Sure, I can do that.¡± Said Solomon, beginning to remember just how high the walls in Thalia¡¯s house reached.


    ¡°Capital.¡± Thalia concluded. ¡°Talk to you later, Zeus will be real mad if he learns that I¡¯m here chatting with you. Schedule us an appointment with Miss Steamy while you¡¯re at it, will you?¡±


    ¡°Uhm, sure?¡± Solomon mumbled. ¡°See you.¡±


    Thalia then hung up, and Solomon was left feeling both grateful, as well as slightly bothered. ¡°A small price for progress, but¡­ I really hate painting¡­¡± She looked down at her hands. ¡°Think you can use my hands to help?¡±


    Genesis gave her a thumbs down with a sense of discontent as a response.


    ¡°Really, Genesis?¡± She complained. ¡°Lazybones.¡±


    He gave her two thumbs down, disapproving.


    ¡°Oh, grow a sense of humour.¡± Solomon opened the door and went back inside the meeting room.


    ¡°What did she say?¡± Shaquia turned in her seat and Solomon gave her a nod. ¡°Good. At least one thing is going well.¡±


    ¡°Everything settled?¡± Catherine asked nervously. ¡°Can we talk about our finances then?¡±


    ¡°Sure.¡± Benedict replied as Solomon sat back down. ¡°We can start with setting aside a small fortune for Alex, Yaroslav, and Lisa.¡± He leaned back in his chair and frowned. ¡°And not to be a Negative Nancy, that¡¯s your job, Cath, but that¡¯s if they even make it back.¡±


    ¡°Of course they will!¡± Solomon said indignantly, cutting off whatever Catherine would have told the raccoon. ¡°Lisa alone could do it, I just know it.¡±


    ¡°Do you know what they¡¯re up against?¡± Benedict retorted. ¡°Haemon¡¯s the real deal. Even if Electric Ones are typically stronger against Sanguine Ones, they shouldn¡¯t take him lightly.¡±


    ¡°And you tell me this now?!¡± Solomon raised her voice, outraged.


    ¡°No matter.¡± Shaquia chimed in, calm and collected. ¡°An Electric One will always beat a Sanguine One. Haemon¡¯s good, yes, but Alex and Lisa can defeat him, should they fight. Frost is good too.¡± An ever so slight smile stretched across Samuel¡¯s face when she said that. ¡°Not to mention, A fight is not part of the plan, it¡¯s all good as long as they make it there before the bats do.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s a big if.¡± Said Catherine, Solomon sneered at her.


    ¡°You¡¯re not helping, Cath.¡± Benedict remarked.


    ¡°Solomon, you needn¡¯t worry.¡± The lynx said in a reassuring voice. ¡°They can handle it.¡±


    ¡°I hope so¡­¡± Said the cat, feeling rather discouraged. Not Genesis though, he seemingly had a lot of confidence in them.


    ¡°So about those finances.¡± Catherine spoke up.


    ¡°Fine Cath, do tell us how to make more money.¡± The cat replied in a sassy tone. ¡°All the while¡­¡±


    ¡°Now, we were approached by a certain person back in France.¡± The opossum began to say. ¡°A powerful caprine with lots of land and money, said he¡¯d been watching us for some time.¡±


    ¡°What?!¡± Steam rose from Shaquia.


    ¡°Now, I know how this sounds, but listen.¡± Catherine went on while Solomon tried her best to wordlessly calm Genesis, softly tracing her spiral marking under her gloves. ¡°That¡¯s all we know about his identity, so we can¡¯t do much about him. He said he¡¯ll leave us alone either way, but he would be willing to part with a sizable portion of his fortune in exchange for some magic.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t tell me you agreed, Cath.¡± Benedict chuckled with a questioning look along with a worried Samuel.


    ¡°What else did he say? What does he want?¡± Shaquia demanded, one hand shaking behind her back. Solomon herself found it harder to restrain the emotions Genesis had on her.


    ¡°The more pure, the better. So something like Samuel here¡­¡± She casually pointed towards the snake.


    ¡°You want to sssell me?!¡± Samuel shouted, Solomon gripped her head, trying to keep it, but mostly Genesis together.


    ¡°No, it would be just a little help from you for the benefit of us all!¡± The opossum, perhaps taking in the various looks of contempt around her, cleared her throat. ¡°Of course, we didn¡¯t consider taking him up on that offer, I thought you should hear it in person.¡±


    ¡°You lying worm.¡± Solomon found herself saying. ¡°What makes you think¡­ What makes you think you can-¡±


    ¡°Here¡¯s what¡¯s going to happen.¡± Steam practically enveloped Shaquia¡¯s suit as she put her previously shaking hand forward. A brief burst of more steam left her mouth as she talked, calmly. ¡°Vanessa will look into this mysterious person. When we find him, we question him on how he knows about us in the first place. Then, we look into all of his ties and make sure that none of this ever gets out to the public. And once that¡¯s all resolved, maybe then, I¡¯ll start thinking about what to do with you, Cath.¡±


    Catherine simply nodded along as the snow lynx spoke. ¡°Yes, that sounds like a plan you¡¯d come up with.¡±


    ¡°Was that all you wanted?¡± Shaquia asked, tapping the desk with her claws. ¡°This could have been an email and I could have just said no.¡±


    ¡°Of course not!¡± Catherine claimed. ¡°We can talk about the rest¡­ Tomorrow. I see you all are kind of tense.¡±


    For once, Solomon agreed with the opossum.


    ¡°Very well then.¡± Shaquia sighed, breathing out steam. ¡°I hope to see you all next meeting.¡± She then stood up and simply left the room without another word.


    ¡°You really thought this was a good idea?¡± Benedict crossed his arms in disappointment.


    ¡°I swear, this was just a prospect to look into!¡± Catherine put her arms up in defence.


    ¡°I better get going.¡± Solomon grasped her left hand with her right and she too, stood up to leave while the remaining three continued arguing.


    Outside room 26, Shaquia stood by the wall, an aura of vapour surrounding her. She eyed Solomon as the cat closed the door.


    ¡°That went well.¡± Solomon remarked, feeling Genesis¡¯ rage much too vividly.


    ¡°Somehow not the worst meeting I¡¯ve been a part of.¡± The lynx sighed. ¡°I¡¯ll tell the others to keep an eye on Cath. Sure, there¡¯s a chance she¡¯s just being really, and I mean really stupid, but it can¡¯t hurt to be more careful.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s probably for the best¡­¡± Solomon looked from her hands to Shaquia. She wasn¡¯t sure how to word it yet, but she was aching to ask her about Haemon more.


    ¡°Out with it.¡± Said Shaquia. ¡°Can¡¯t ruin my mood much more.¡±


    ¡°I¡­¡± Solomon took a deep breath. ¡°Be honest with me. This bloody bat, how powerful is he? Why is Ben so concerned about him? But most of all¡­ Can Lisa beat him?¡±


    Shaquia didn¡¯t say anything for an uncomfortably long time. ¡°I hope. Every hour of the day since I asked her, I hope that she doesn¡¯t have to fight him. She has an advantage, but Haemon, he¡¯s frankly savage when he needs to be.¡±


    To say that Solomon was disheartened would be an understatement. ¡°I see.¡± She replied concisely. Genesis¡¯ rage seemed to slowly quell as well, she could hardly imagine what he thought exactly of what Catherine said.


    ¡°She¡¯s got magic in all her body. She can do it.¡± Shaquia reassured Solomon. ¡°I would still prefer it if the two didn¡¯t meet, however.¡±


    The door to the meeting room opened, and the remaining three people left it as well. They all looked at Shaquia, as if to ask what¡¯s next.


    ¡°I need a break, and for the sake of everyone, don¡¯t bother me.¡± The lynx declared. ¡°Go do whatever. We¡¯re done for today.¡± With that, she put her hands in her pockets and left for the lifts.


    ¡°I¡¯ll go fill the water tank, then I could show you the warehouse. How about that, Sam?¡± Benedict told one deeply upset snake in an attempt to get his mind off of the meeting.


    ¡°Yeah.¡± Samuel said lethargically. ¡°That¡¯d be great.¡±


    ¡°...right.¡± Solomon gave Catherine one more passing glance. To make sure that Genesis didn¡¯t just flat out melt her, she walked, then jogged to the lifts, catching up with Shaquia. They got into the one that was on the second floor. Neither of them said anything as the lift took them up to the sixth floor where Shaquia left, a short-lived trail of steam following her. All the while, Solomon texted Lisa. She hasn''t sent her a single message since, she couldn¡¯t forgive herself if anything did end up happening to the wolf. She almost wanted to just go after her as well, just to help her even a little bit. She knew that Shaquia wouldn¡¯t have any of that though, Genesis was simply too important for them for that.


    Solomon herself then went to the ground floor. She figured that some reading just might help calm her, and especially Genesis, calm down and went to the room where The Ledger was kept. The password that day was ¡°tranquility,¡± which she found ironic.


    ¡°Alright, my friend. Maybe this¡¯ll help you.¡± Solomon sat down at the familiar desk and opened the ancient book. To her surprise, however, she saw a bookmark. They were told explicitly not to use bookmarks in the Ledger, and with Shaquia¡¯s mood so down in the gutter, she decided not to tell. She was fairly certain it belonged to Benedict though, given the blue and orange colour, a British flag, and the text ¡°Property of Benedict Thompson Dowie Carslaw¡± on it. She pocketed it and took a look at the section he had been reading.


    The section was about darkness infusion. A type of magic that mainly affects living beings, used on inanimate objects. It was a more modern section too, referencing events that happened a mere 2000-500 years ago. Genesis read along with Solomon, and she found him calming down at the sight of new knowledge.


    Darkness infusion itself was quite peculiar, it made it so that an object can only make contact with living beings, and magically phase through everything else like a ghost, including the ground. This became a scarcely-used tactic for assassins of the old age, using darkness-infused weapons such as daggers and arrows to make for more reliable kills. Some tried to mitigate the chance of their death at the hands of a Dark Assassin by wearing special, darkness-infused armour. The problem with that, was that it didn¡¯t stop regular weapons, so the few times it was used, it didn¡¯t prove very effective.


    And then a new reference caught Solomon¡¯s eyes: ¡°People who had access to it tried combining the two armours, some managing multiple layers of both steel and Dark Steel, which could stop almost any weapon, infused or not. See: Ren the Unstoppable.¡±


    ¡°That could be useful.¡± She stated, and found Genesis to agree. Solomon was just happy that he finally calmed down. She looked through the table of contents and after just a little bit of struggling, she found it under the section of renowned Mystic Ones. That title didn¡¯t sit well with her. Surely, people in general would know more about magic if such ¡°renowned¡± people existed, as well as tactics with magic.


    ¡°Many people of folklore are suspected to have been Mystic Ones, which could serve as an explanation of their tales. This is true of certain historical figures as well, such as King Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table, who supposedly had connections to a mysterious Blazing Lizard. Some even speculate that the Excalibur was a darkness-infused sword whose magic was removed while inside a stone, trapping the blade within.¡±


    ¡°Well, if you put it that way¡­ I guess that counts as renowned.¡± Solomon remarked and skipped ahead to Ren¡¯s section.


    ¡°The raven of True Darkness, Ren (better known as Ren the Unstoppable) was a mercenary of unknown origin who roamed England for an estimated thirty years during the 1500s.¡± Solomon was in awe to find out more about someone apparently famous who lived so recently, compared to Genesis. ¡°His technique was unlike the typical shroud that most True Darkness prefer to use, in fact, he was reportedly never seen using it. He carried an infused straight sword with an infused rope wrapped around the pommel, which he would swing and throw with deadly accuracy. He earned his nickname from his many victorious fights, being the only Dark One known to have killed a Bright One, as well as an army officer who wore multiple layers of steel and Dark Steel. While it is unclear how his blade pierced such armour, it is assumed that he infused and removed the infusion from his blade at just the right time to strike through. Some question whether or not he was even a mercenary, as he was seen enacting vigilante justice around Wessex and Essex for no determinable profit. How he really met his end is debated, but avian folklore around Wessex suggests that he grew bored with fighting regular people and moved on to the next world in search of greater opponents.¡±


    ¡°You know, Genesis, it¡¯s nice to read about another legend.¡± Solomon smiled as she closed the book, her companion then gave her a thumbs up. The section was short but it had their interest nonetheless. ¡°No wonder Benedict was looking into this, if he could kill a Bright One¡­ Maybe we can use it somehow. But I still don¡¯t understand, how come I¡¯ve never heard of this Ren?¡±


    She allowed Genesis to write down his thoughts. ¡°You are not a bird. Nor are you from Wessex.¡±


    ¡°Fair.¡± Solomon then stood up and put The Ledger back in its case, feeling that Genesis was in a better mood. ¡°How about this, I¡¯ll return Benedict his bookmark, we can have another acid bath after, then go get some fish sticks. Sounds good?¡± To that, he gave another thumbs up. ¡°Good! Then we can do some more training. But¡­ Maybe with less waterfalls and snow this time.¡±

 Chapter 42 - Stagnant Time

    The cold night, or perhaps day, crawled on at a glacial pace. Lisa couldn¡¯t even tell the time of day due to the lack of windows in the room she was kept in along with people she really didn¡¯t want to be in the general vicinity of. She lay on the mattress on the bottom bunk, looking up at the frame holding the upper bed above her, lamenting her situation. Every now and then, she glanced over at the bats, and every time, she grew more and more frustrated with them. While she herself couldn¡¯t hope to sleep in such a place, she saw and heard their rhythmic breathing clear as day. ¡°They ain¡¯t even takin¡¯ me seriously¡­ After everything, they don¡¯t see me as a big enough threat?¡± Her eyes were fixated on Haemon specifically. Even in his sleep, he seemed to have a slight frown. His chest rose and fell, so unbothered by Lisa¡¯s presence that she found it downright insulting. ¡°Just what the hell can you do?¡±


    Lisa watched the bats sleep, thinking that maybe, just maybe, this was the perfect opportunity to get rid of them. The time for action, the time to take her revenge¡­


    However, her gut feeling told her to leave them well alone for the time being. She decided to heed Alexander¡¯s warnings, to see them as more than the trivial enemies she thought them to be. Then again, just a little shock¡­ It would be so easy, too! ¡°But then how am I getting out? Can¡¯t do that with just Alexei, if he¡¯s willing to help me after.¡±


    Lisa exhaled deeply and turned her head away from them, back up at the bed frame. She then bit her tongue as she felt a rush of adrenaline, for there was a spider hanging above just a few centimetres away from her face. She slowly crawled away from the needlessly creepy creature and went to sit up to look for something to get rid of it with.


    Clang.


    ¡°Ow¡­!¡± She yelped, louder than she had intended, when she hit her head hard on the upper bed frame. She bent forward and held her head, rubbing the aching spot.


    ¡°Keep it down.¡± Haemon¡¯s sleepy voice said. Lisa really wanted to flip that entire bed, but decided that it just might not be worth it. For now.


    She then had to force her eyes closed for just a second when Alexei shined his light on her as if it was a torch. ¡°You okay?¡± He asked, leaning over the bed.


    ¡°Been better.¡± Lisa replied and saw Rufina curiously looking in their direction. The wolf then stood up and powered up her magic in her hand. That got the Sanguine Bat¡¯s attention.


    ¡°What are you doing?¡± Haemon asked with uncharacteristically little malice.


    ¡°Pest control.¡± Lisa answered and prepared to vaporise the arachnid.


    ¡°Wait!¡± Rufina cried and practically shot up from bed, causing Lisa to take a step back. Much to her surprise, and slight distress, Rufina then simply took the spider and held it in her hands. ¡°What did it ever do to you?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s rich.¡± Lisa powered down. ¡°Oh, pardon me mate, I¡¯d like to see how you¡¯d react to a creepy bug in your bed!¡±


    Rufina raised an eyebrow, more befuddled than upset. ¡°It¡¯s just a common house spider. It can¡¯t hurt you, you know that?¡±


    ¡°So what?¡± Lisa retorted. ¡°They¡¯re so fucking creepy, mate! With their little legs crawlin¡¯ up the walls and all that, disappearing the moment you ain¡¯t lookin¡¯¡­ And don¡¯t even get me started on centipedes. Good rule of thumb, if it¡¯s got more than four legs, kill it!¡±


    Haemon may have been agitated about being woken up at first, but now he was chuckling. ¡°You¡¯re afraid of bugs? Really?¡±


    ¡°Shut up. The li¡¯l bastards manage to be creepier than you, and that¡¯s a proper accomplishment.¡± Lisa sat back down on the bed and glanced at Rufina. ¡°I don¡¯t care what you do with it, but keep it far away from me.¡±


    The bat shrugged her shoulders and took the spider to the door opposite to the entrance. That had Lisa curious.


    ¡°I don¡¯t like spiders.¡± Alexei said, likely in an attempt at sympathy. ¡°Too many legs.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t I feel that.¡± Lisa said with a slight smile. ¡°What¡¯s behind that door anyway?¡±


    ¡°Bathroom.¡± The hyena replied.


    ¡°Right.¡± The wolf said, then frowned deeply. ¡°She took it to the goddamn bathroom?¡±


    Rufina returned and went straight back to the bed, shooting a mildly entertained glance at Lisa. The wolf frankly felt a good bit embarrassed, but chose to just leave that incident behind. Her gaze then went up at Haemon, who briefly smirked back at her before closing his eyes again.


    After having a thorough look-around above her for more spiders, Lisa could finally lie down again. ¡°Could it be¡­ No. They¡¯ll just kill me when it¡¯s convenient for them.¡±


    ¡°Hey, wolf girl.¡± Alexei said not a minute after.


    ¡°I have a name, y¡¯know?¡± Lisa complained.


    ¡°That¡¯s the thing. I think we didn¡¯t get to meet the right way.¡± He leaned over again. ¡°We¡¯re stuck here together, maybe we can get to know each other? All four of us? Why we¡¯re all here?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t exactly see how that helps.¡± Rufina yawned.


    ¡°You know what, why not? I¡¯ll humour ya.¡± Lisa began to say with a slight chuckle and Alexei listened, looking at her with that one uncovered eye of his. Being a Bright One, Lisa wasn¡¯t even sure he could see her without light.


    ¡°Guess I¡¯m not getting more sleep.¡± Haemon remarked and turned to his side, one arm supporting his head.


    ¡°Name¡¯s Lisa.¡± The wolf began to say. ¡°To be perfectly honest, I didn¡¯t come here for ya originally, Alex. I came here for a trip with a friend, then a total bitch called me and begged me to take you to her so that these two don¡¯t sacrifice you to their fox god or whatever.¡±


    ¡°We don¡¯t sacrifice people!¡± Haemon interrupted.


    ¡°Shh! Shhhhh!¡± Alexei hushed him. ¡°She¡¯s talking! You get your turn later.¡±


    Much to Lisa¡¯s surprise, the bat relented.


    ¡°So¡­ I was offered a reward for all that. I thought why not? Couldn''t be that hard.¡± Lisa scoffed. ¡°Evidently. And now I¡¯m here, stuck in this bloody room with the three of ya and who knows where my two partners are.¡±


    Alexei nodded along to her story.


    ¡°So Shaqie did send you here?¡± Rufina questioned.


    ¡°If you want to look at it that way.¡± Lisa shrugged.


    ¡°Okay, who wants to go next?¡± The hyena looked from one person to the other with way too much excitement in his voice.


    ¡°Ah, sure.¡± Rufina got into a more comfortable position on her stomach. ¡°My brother and I are here for you, and nothing else.¡± She shot a passive-aggressive look at Alexei. ¡°All to keep an unstable madman at bay.¡±


    Lisa snapped her gaze at the bat with eyes wide open. Meanwhile Haemon leaned back with his arms crossed and let his sister talk.


    ¡°He¡¯s volatile and a narcissist, but¡­ I owe my life to him.¡± Rufina went on. ¡°I wouldn¡¯t be alive if it wasn¡¯t for his healing.¡±


    ¡°Is it better than mine?¡± Alexei asked innocently, almost as if jealous, bobbing his head rhythmically.


    ¡°So much better.¡± The bat replied. ¡°And you can help it become even better.¡±


    ¡°Just when I thought you were-¡± Lisa began.


    ¡°Shh! Same goes for you!¡± Alexei scolded, briefly looking down to face the wolf.


    ¡°As long as he¡¯s happy, we¡¯re happy, and he¡¯s a little more predictable.¡± Rufina resumed. ¡°He¡¯s no god, but he sure thinks of himself as one. And unfortunately, that¡¯s more than enough for some people. And then, his powers¡­¡±


    ¡°Sister, enough.¡± Haemon finally spoke up, which Alexei didn¡¯t quite like.


    ¡°Point is, he needs your light, Alex.¡± Rufina said after a short pause. ¡°It keeps him from doing anything¡­ Drastic. Usually.¡±


    ¡°But I don¡¯t want to give him my light.¡± Said Alexei, causing¡­ No reaction from either bat.


    ¡°No one would.¡± Rufina sighed. ¡°But if we don¡¯t take you to him, we don¡¯t know what he¡¯ll do. I¡­ I never know what¡¯s going on inside his head. What he actually thinks of people, or himself. Maybe it¡¯s all light too.¡±


    Lisa was speechless. She did have a lot to say, just not to the people around her. If what Rufina said was true and they weren¡¯t the blind followers of Luxor, then maybe¡­ ¡°Or she could be lyin¡¯. She knows I ain¡¯t workin¡¯ with them. Is she trying to make herself look better to me?¡±


    ¡°Creepy story.¡± Alexei remarked and looked up at Haemon, who was seemingly paying his situation very little mind. ¡°What about you?¡±


    ¡°Same as her.¡± He grumbled. ¡°Nothing more.¡±


    ¡°Oh, but¡­¡± Said the hyena.


    ¡°Nothing. More.¡± Haemon insisted with a deathly glare.


    ¡°Okay, don¡¯t want to talk. Okay.¡± Alexei put up his arms in defence.


    ¡°What about you, then?¡± Rufina shot a glance at him.


    ¡°I wanted to say that.¡± The hyena cleared his throat and tapped the wall with his claws. ¡°I¡­ Made mistakes. I worked a job I didn¡¯t like, but the money was good. Very good.¡±


    ¡°Where¡¯d ya work?¡± Lisa asked.


    ¡°Marketing.¡± He said with a shudder. The reactions were that of disgust and sympathy alike. ¡°I didn¡¯t like lying to people every time I said something. So I moved here with my girl¡­ But no house. But I had a friend in¡­ Low places, as you say? I needed more money for the house, so they gave me what I needed. The birds. I got the house for me and my girl, life was good!¡± He then once more grabbed the side of his head and shook it vigorously, whimpering lowly before his voice burst. ¡°One week! I needed one week to pay! But no, they couldn¡¯t wait! They needed it that day, that hour, that minute, and I didn¡¯t have it!¡± His voice rose to more of shouting by the end, earning a worried look from Lisa and Rufina. He pressed his hands against his head, looking on at nothing, heaving.


    ¡°You¡­ Alright, mate?¡± Lisa asked, concerned for herself as well.


    Alexei released his head and took a couple more deep breaths to calm down. After a good half a minute of silence and quiet regret, he went on. ¡°I thought I would die. But then they saw my magic light, and I think that kept me alive. Then I saw that they had magic too, so we¡­ Don¡¯t work together, but I heal people who get shot? And some other things?¡±


    Taken from Royal Road, this narrative should be reported if found on Amazon.


    ¡°Sorry to butt in your story, but why not go to a bank?¡± Lisa asked, finding his decision to be baffling.


    ¡°Banks are a scam and you know it.¡± He answered with complete confidence.


    ¡°Well¡­¡± Lisa chose not to expand upon that topic, exchanging shrugs with Rufina. ¡°What are their powers, exactly? Like that owl?¡±


    ¡°Northern hawk owl.¡± Haemon said calmly. Lisa questioned why he was so specific with the species. ¡°It¡¯s pretty obvious with his.¡±


    ¡°Oh, then enlighten us, maybe?¡± The wolf said and was met with the bat¡¯s less than pleased look.


    ¡°Metal plus electric.¡± Rufina replied, which seemed to take Haemon by surprise. ¡°You know what that makes? Why he surrounds himself with metal?¡±


    ¡°Oh, don¡¯t you tell me¡­¡± Lisa shook her head.


    ¡°An electromagnet.¡± The bat explained. ¡°Unfortunately for me, it also works on Metal Ones.¡±


    ¡°We got beat by fuckin¡¯ magnets?!¡± The wolf sat up and complained. ¡°Alex, before I start bangin¡¯ my head against that door, what else do they have?¡±


    ¡°One is just all grey on the hands?¡± Said the hyena, looking at his own hands. ¡°With a sharp beak?¡±


    ¡°The buzzard.¡± Rufina nodded.


    ¡°Oriental honey-buzzard.¡± Said Haemon, raising Lisa¡¯s suspicions about him. ¡°Who is he to know that so precisely?¡±


    ¡°Finally!¡± The wolf exclaimed. ¡°Something I can beat. I think.¡±


    ¡°So two that can die very easily if I can catch them off-guard.¡± Rufina said with a smirk. ¡±Anything else?¡±


    ¡°There¡¯s the one with the long beak.¡± Alexei answered after a moment of thinking. ¡°He has¡­ Orange and blue?¡±


    ¡°Siberian crane.¡± Haemon said in a bored tone. ¡°That one¡¯s pretty straight-forward.¡±


    ¡°Blue like this?¡± Lisa rolled up her sleeve to show Alexei her markings.


    He shined his light on her to see. ¡°Yes! Just like that!¡±


    Rufina inhaled through her teeth sharply in annoyance. ¡°That¡¯s a problem.¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s that make?¡± Lisa inquired.


    ¡°So you¡¯d think that if you combined the two most destructive types of magic, you¡¯d get something even more destructive?¡± Rufina waggled her legs, looking at Lisa like an instructor. ¡°And you¡¯d be correct. Fire and electricity can cause explosions. Thing is¡­ They¡¯re not necessarily outside the user. You may be immune to the types, but you¡¯re not immune to getting blown up.¡±


    ¡°So there¡¯s a chance he just blows himself up?¡± Lisa guessed, amused by the mental image.


    ¡°That¡¯s what worries me.¡± Rufina glanced at the hyena. ¡°Alex, have you seen him use his power?¡±


    ¡°Over the months here, no.¡± He replied, shaking his head and tail.


    ¡°Then it''s fifty-fifty.¡± The bat stopped moving her legs. ¡°There are two kinds of people who take up on using this combination. Masters of their magic, and morons. Let¡¯s just hope that he¡¯s the latter.¡±


    ¡°Fuckin¡¯ brilliant.¡± Lisa remarked. ¡°Metal, magnets, and explosions. Just splendid.¡±


    ¡°How do you know so much about magic?¡± The hyena asked, visibly entertained by the conversation.


    ¡°Like you, we have a past we¡¯re not proud of.¡± Rufina said solemnly. ¡°Anyway, maybe¡­¡±


    Just then, someone knocked on the metal door, startling everyone in the room except Haemon.


    Crackle-crack.


    The sound sent a chill down Lisa¡¯s spine as the door opened, and behind it, stood the owl and two armed guards. One pointed straight at Haemon, and the owl nodded. He reached out his left arm, and with a crackle, the purple arcs shot out to grab him by the iron bracelets. That took him by surprise, but he didn¡¯t seem to want to go without a fight, he thrashed around with his legs until two more arcs subdued them too. His visage resembled more a vicious, wild animal¡¯s than a person¡¯s as the owl dragged him out.


    ¡°Haemon!¡± Rufina cried, and the guards already had their weapons aimed at her. With a resigned look of anger, she backed down.


    Solomon had told Lisa of Rufina¡¯s wind that can rust metal, but even if she tried, she would be full of lead before she could waft the birds, and their weapons, with it. And she hated that, Lisa could tell that from one glance


    Alexei had his arms up, Lisa didn¡¯t dare to move, as much as she wanted to see how birds in particular reacted to a couple thousand volts. One of the armed birds eyed Lisa curiously, likely wondering how she had gotten a bowler hat.


    The owl took Haemon, and there was nothing anyone could realistically do to prevent that.


    When the door was magnetically closed again, Rufina stood up and slammed the wall with a fist. ¡°Brother¡­¡±


    Lisa took a moment to breathe. ¡°Oi, Alex, where¡¯d they take Vlad?¡± She leaned over and asked.


    ¡°They want info from him? Maybe?¡± He shrugged, albeit distressed.


    ¡°Would it hurt you¡­¡± Rufina said softly, slowly turning around. ¡°Would it kill you to stop referring to my brother like that?¡±


    ¡°Lucky for you, I just ran out of vampire names.¡± Lisa said in defence.


    ¡°Do you think he chose any of this?¡± Rufina grabbed a leg of the upper bunk. ¡°Do you think he would have turned out this way if he wasn¡¯t born so different?¡± That we¡¯d be here if he wasn¡¯t trying to protect me?¡±


    Lisa couldn¡¯t quite find the words to express how she felt at first, but in a way, she grew a little fearful of Rufina, as for the first time, she saw the resemblance between the two siblings: eyes filled with anger.


    ¡°Now let me ask ya this¡­¡± Lisa stalled. ¡°For one, why does he keep saying the exact species of bird these guys are?¡±


    Rufina scoffed. ¡°He probably knows your body better than you do.¡±


    ¡°Pardon?¡± Lisa looked, and felt, quite offended. ¡°What¡¯s that mean?¡±


    ¡°You want to know what he¡¯s actually like behind those creepy, red eyes? What he is despite everything?¡± Rufina asked with a deep frown, tightening her grasp on the metal pole before releasing it. Her touch left a shade of reddish brown rust.


    ¡°I¡¯m listening.¡± Alexei said with a curious smile, much too inappropriate for the situation.


    ¡°I mean, go ahead.¡± Lisa sat back against the wall on the bed. She never would have imagined anyone feeling anything for the Sanguine Bat other than some form of fear or unease, but here she was, his sister. ¡°You can choose your friends, but you can¡¯t choose your family, I guess.¡±


    ¡°I was there to see it all happen.¡± Rufina sat down and began her story, or rather, her brother¡¯s. ¡°Biology class. We got to an especially detailed diagram on the body, as presented on a canine and a feline. And Haemon¡­ For the first time, he was interested. Everything else left him bored. He couldn¡¯t care less about maths and all that other stuff, but that diagram¡­ From that day onward, I always saw him with a book when he wasn¡¯t at the library.¡± She chuckled with a little grin. ¡°I¡¯d never even seen him read before that. All of a sudden, he liked books more than he liked people! And what do you know, they were books on anatomy. For some reason, he really wanted to know how the body works. Not just canines and felines, or bats, all species.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s when his markings showed up?¡± Lisa asked, hearing the soft taps of Alexei¡¯s fingers above her.


    ¡°Around that time, yes.¡± Rufina replied, a little more relaxed. ¡°And he learned so much, all by himself¡­ He couldn¡¯t tell an oak from a willow, but he could pinpoint exactly where every one of your organs were at 16. Just a year later, he knew the names of every bone in bats. Another year and he knew just about everything about how a normal body should be like with most species.¡± Her grin turned into a smile, immensely bright and happy just remembering. ¡°As his big sister, I was so proud of him! He was terrible at every other subject, yes, but when it came to the body, he knew it through and through, male or female, canine, lupine, vulpine, avian, bovine, chiroptera, anything you could think of. He knew what he wanted to be even then, and it required just the knowledge he had, as well a little disregard for the sight of blood and guts. A surgeon.¡±


    ¡°Him?¡± Lisa said in disbelief. ¡°He¡¯s like¡­¡± She paused. ¡°No offence, but he¡¯s more of a butcher if ya ask me.¡±


    ¡°Right?¡± Rufina agreed, which surprised Lisa. ¡°Doctors and surgeons are often friendly and approachable. Looks included.¡± Her smile faded. ¡°And friendly, he doesn¡¯t look. When he heard that someone with results worse than his got into the medical school he applied for¡­ That did it. He felt like the world, and his body, betrayed him. Think about it, have you ever seen an albino doctor, let alone surgeon?¡±


    ¡°So he couldn¡¯t get in ¡®cause he got fucked over on the gene lottery?¡± Lisa asked, in more of a casual tone.


    ¡°Basically.¡± Rufina went on. ¡°But I think that¡¯s when his magic really awakened. To say that he has great control over his power doesn¡¯t even begin to tell you what he can do. If there¡¯s something wrong with you, he can tell quite easily, even without it. And there was someone who wanted a person just like that¡­ Ludwig.¡±


    ¡°It only got worse from that, huh?¡± Lisa guessed.


    ¡°Who¡¯s that?¡± Alexei asked, but was ignored.


    ¡°Actually, it was great at first.¡± Rufina retorted. ¡°He could legally use his knowledge somewhere. Well, legal is a stretch, but it worked well enough for him. But then¡­¡± She stopped herself from saying whatever she had wanted to. ¡°How do you think he felt when I came down with a condition he couldn¡¯t help with? When Ludwig said that I couldn¡¯t be treated? When we visited countless hospitals and were refused treatment every time?¡±


    ¡°Despair.¡± Alexei said in an overly dramatic voice.


    ¡°On-point there, Alex.¡± Said Rufina. ¡°That¡¯s when we met Luxor, and the rest is history.¡±


    Lisa found herself questioning her opinion of the bats. That feeling didn¡¯t last long, however. ¡°That¡¯s exactly what you want, dontcha?¡±


    ¡°Yeah, well¡­¡± Lisa furrowed her brows, believing to see right through the bat. ¡°That¡¯s a nice sob story, but I still ain¡¯t gonna work with ya.¡±


    Rufina then lifted her head and looked right at the wolf.


    She then laughed. ¡°God!¡± She said through her slow, almost bereaved laughter. ¡°You are such a shallow person.¡±


    ¡°Oi! I see-¡±


    ¡°See what? You really think it was a plan to get you on our side?¡± She glanced up at Alexei, wiping a tear from her eyes. ¡°If anything, he had a plan for that.¡±


    ¡°Hey, hey, hey!¡± The hyena exclaimed, slightly rocking the top bunk. ¡°Don¡¯t rope me in!¡±


    ¡°Come on, you worked in marketing. I know a manipulation tactic when I see one.¡± Rufina accused.


    ¡°What?!¡± Alexei cried. ¡°No, no, no, I left because I was tired of lying, and¡­¡±


    ¡°You tried to get us closer to one another, just so we could maybe cooperate.¡± The bat briefly buried her face in her palms. ¡°But you didn¡¯t account for someone so headstrong, did you?¡±


    ¡°I just want to leave!¡± Alexei claimed.


    ¡°What¡¯s gotten into you, girl?¡± Lisa asked, increasingly concerned.


    ¡°I can tell you hate The System. The way you talk about Shaquia, one of the few people there who wanted to help back then¡­¡± She stood up and with fully opened wing membranes, pointed at Lisa. ¡°But you wouldn''t know that. You don¡¯t know her. You don¡¯t know me, you don¡¯t know Haemon, or anything about what we went through!¡± She sniffled, then made a soft giggle. ¡°But I know one thing for sure. As much as I hate The System in general, and as wrong as it is to serve Luxor, I can at least admit that all of those people, us included, have ideals. But you?¡± She scoffed. ¡°You¡¯re only in it for the money. We don¡¯t need you. Just the three of us could escape and leave you here, alone. And no one would bother enough to come and save you, right?¡±


    Lisa didn¡¯t want to listen to her scathing words. ¡°She¡¯s trying to get a reaction from me. That won¡¯t work.¡±


    ¡°Girl!¡± The wolf pressed herself up against the wall. ¡°You¡¯re cultists, that¡¯s the only reason why I don¡¯t want to work with you!¡±


    Silence. No one said anything for a few uncomfortably long seconds. ¡°If anything¡­ She¡¯s just as mad as her brother. She¡¯s just like him, only better at pretending! I¡­ I know it. I see how it is.¡±


    Rufina then spoke again. ¡°Do you really have so little back home that you can¡¯t put aside your hatred?¡±


    ¡°I have so much to live for back there, Rufina!¡± The wolf stood up, having made up her mind, not influenced by the bat. ¡°I want to leave this dump as much as you do!¡±


    ¡°Then why don¡¯t you just work with us?¡± Rufina asked with a saddened look, letting her arms hang loosely, folding her wings. ¡°I¡¯ve been willing to do that from the very beginning. And that¡¯s despite you shocking my brother, and an associate throwing acid at him!¡±


    ¡°And you think I¡¯ll just let ya have Alex?¡± Lisa argued, more just curious to see how she¡¯ll try to convince her.


    ¡°What does he say?¡± Rufina shot a look at the utterly terrified Alexei. ¡°Who would you like to go with?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t care, anywhere that isn¡¯t here!¡± He pulled his beanie down over his face, softly sobbing. ¡°I don¡¯t have anything left! No house, no money, no girl¡­¡±


    ¡°What?¡± Lisa raised an eyebrow. ¡°Mate, your girl is waitin¡¯ for ya at that house you got with the dirty money.¡±


    ¡°She is?¡± He pulled up his hat, then leaned over to look at Lisa. His hat slid back down to cover his right eye.


    ¡°Yeah.¡± The wolf smiled. ¡°Spoke to her. She ain¡¯t forgotten ya, quite the opposite.¡±


    Alexei turned his attention towards Rufina.


    ¡°I¡¯m going with them.¡± He said confidently. ¡°That was easy.¡±


    ¡°Whatever.¡± Rufina shrugged, but definitely didn¡¯t seem like she was happy with his decision. ¡°So, you in?¡± She asked Lisa one more time.


    To help these two bats leave¡­ She never thought she¡¯d do such a thing. But as long as she didn¡¯t know what had happened to Yaroslav and Alexander, she didn¡¯t have much of a choice. Not to mention¡­ There were too many people she wanted to return home to.


    ¡°Once.¡± Lisa replied with a stern glare. ¡°No more. I ain¡¯t doing this ¡®cause of your sob story though. More because I¡­ Had the time to think. I see that we¡¯re all in deep shit if we don¡¯t work together.¡±


    ¡°Yes!!¡± Alexei¡¯s excited voice came from the top bunk, followed by his body hitting the bed.


    Rufina made a delighted smile. ¡°Then now we just wait for my brother.¡±