collab 2010!

A reviving of an old collaboration from 2010! I miss our collabs, they always made writing much more fun. I'm actually really tempted to title this 'City Hunter', LOL! (Hope there's no copyright infringements!)

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The wind blew north. She knew this because it was the direction his house was stationed, facing the mountains.

“I have a favour to ask” was the first thing out of her mouth the moment their eyes met. He sat calmly in the expensive birch chair he was so fond of.

“What is it?”

She drew a breath. “Drive me to the city.”

He chuckled for a bit before eyeing her curiously. “Why should I do this favour for you?”

“Because you owe me.”

“I owe no one.”

His answer displeased her. “I’m very unhappy with you.”

“Who said happiness was a venue in life?”

She sighed and relented. “That’s true.”

He leaned forward. “Let me rephrase things. What’s in it for me if I do this for you?”

“I’ll give you a backrub,” she offered sarcastically.

“If you’re not going to be serious, I won’t take you seriously.”

“Who said I wasn’t serious?”

“Then you should up the ante.”

She folded her arms. “Oh, Noctis. What happened to doing things for the hell of it?”

“I’m getting old. Old people want to stay home.”

“You’re fucking twenty-two,” she snorted. “Old my ass!”

“I’ll be twenty-three soon enough.”

“Look. Seeing the city your family helped create must invoke some sense of pride in your heart. You should be happy for a chance to go.”

“My father was never there for me, so why should I care about his investments? Whether he babies that city or not is of no concern to me.”

“Oh right, I forgot you don’t have a heart.”

“Say what you will.” He leaned back again. “Out of curiousity, why don’t you just ask your blond-as-fuck boyfriend to chauffeur you? Tired of the wind messing up your hair on that godforsaken vehicle he calls a ride?”

“It’s cool, okay?” She couldn’t help defending the motorcycle. She knew how much the owner loved it. Besides, she liked it a hell of a lot too. “And FYI, none of your business!”

There was a lengthy pause before she spoke up again.

“Look, please? Is there any way I could get you to help me?”

He thought for a bit.

“I guess you’ll just have to owe me one."

She grumbled. “Fine.”

He whisked the keys off the coffee table. “Let’s go.”

She was surprised that he chose a classy black car--the one he usually got transported around town in--over the racy silver sports car he kept parked in the driveway.

"What, no Lamborghini?"

He chuckled. "I drive a Bugatti."

"A what?"

"Exactly." He chuckled again. In the past it would have alarmed her, but time had mellowed out his personality considerably. "I don't feel like taking it out. In a city like the one we're headed to, it's best to be subtle."

"Like your freakin' black car is subtle."

"What, you don't like my Audi TT coupe?"

She rolled her eyes. "Stop talking car language."

"What's the point in taking a nice car if I'm not going to be picking up any chicks?" His eyes narrowed. "You're here, after all."

"You better be joking."

 ♦

It was strange to see him driving. New. On the rare occasion they rode together, they would sit in the back with a man named Sebastian at the wheel. He wasn't a bad driver; not reckless, from what she could see. Just a rare sight.

They powered down the highway for what seemed like forever. The sun had slowly shifted across the sky and still civilization was nowhere to be seen. Only a long, stretching road.

She couldn't help herself from asking the typical question. "Are we there yet?"

"Karelos, ever the impatient one. Haven't you been to the city before? It takes an hour or two to get there. The road takes an unnecessarily winding path."

"I actually haven't." She leaned against the window. "So how are things with your fantasy wife Stella?"

"'Fantasy wife'? Hardly. She's itching for me to propose. Not that I would consider even asking her out."

"Why? She seems like a nice girl." Karelos laughed. "Forthright, controlling, bossy. And quite the looker! Best of all, she's as rich as you. I'd say perfect match."

She could have sworn he twitched. Hilarious.

Karelos wanted to tease him further, but thought better of it. They drifted into a comfortable silence. As comfortable as it could be with a person like that; it was usually better to keep him busy. Otherwise he tended to get ideas that weren’t proper. Stella would lose it if she knew anything beyond the polished veneer he presented to the world. She wondered why Noctis kept stringing her along; his dislike for the girl was obvious.

Wait, this was Noctis she was attributing human kindness to. What other people wanted were of no concern to him. If he felt like getting Stella’s wedding fantasies up, he’d do it; it would bring him that much more pleasure to finally crush her. He’d find the worst possible way to let her down, too. She could care less about the girl, but sometimes he went too far.

“You’re a real bastard, you know that?”

He kept his eyes on the road. “You were certainly fond of me last night.”

“What?”

“Caught you off-guard there.” He grinned. “You’re blushing.”

“I’m not,” she insisted, although her cheeks did feel oddly hot. “We didn’t even do anything.”

“I don’t know about you, but I was definitely interested in doing things.”

She glowered at him. “You’re still not over it?”

“We have a lot of unfinished business.”

“Such as?”

“The blond.” He spoke with obvious distaste. “You’re not really serious about him.”

He met her gaze but she looked away. What did he know about her and Cloud? Absolutely nothing. Her life was none of his concern. Their previous relationship, if it could even be called that, had ended long ago. But in a town this small you couldn’t shake people. One thing led to another and now she and Noctis had an uneasy friendship of sorts. She could have easily never spoken to him again, but there was something about him that still kept her around.

Karelos glanced at him surreptitiously. He even looked handsome in profile, with his elegant nose and long eyelashes. She remembered the way looking into his eyes, a deeper blue than Cloud’s, had made her feel. He had given her something to search for when she had been lost in the dark. In his own way, he’d been there for her. She had never told him how much he had meant to her. Which was hardly anything. He was no Cloud, after all, but...

“Noctis. I just wanted to tell you—”

“That I ‘get better with age like a fine wine’?”

She snorted. “As if.”

There he went, not able to take her seriously. It was probably for the best.

“You’re really not remembering last night very well at all.” He drummed his fingers on the steering wheel. “I know the Russians make strong vodka. However, I assumed you’d be able to handle it without having this huge hole in your memory. My mistake.”

“We only had a couple of shots!”

“I only had a couple of shots,” he corrected. “You were all over that bottle.”

She rolled her eyes. “Whatever, I didn’t say anything about your fine wine ass.”

He smiled, flashing white teeth. “Who said anything about my ass?”

“Shut up!” She sunk down into her chair. “I like it better when you don’t talk.”

He swerved suddenly and she heard herself scream. A truck rushed by them, blaring its horn as it went. Noctis pulled over to the side of the road and braked hard. They would have gone through the windshield if they hadn’t been wearing their seatbelts. Her heart pounded in her chest. The scent of burnt rubber filled the vehicle.

It was a while before she could trust her voice enough to speak.

“What the hell was that?”

“That,” he said solemnly, “was Stella.”

They stared at each other before breaking down into laughter.

“God.” Karelos giggled. “She has horrible taste in cars.”

“Her taste in men, however, is flawless.”

“You’re so full of yourself!”

“As I should be.” He raised an eyebrow. “Are you all right, baby?”

She blinked. “Um, I’m fine. You?”

“I was talking to my car.” He chuckled at the look on her face. “I’ll live. Whoever thought they could pull that little stunt on me, well, let’s just say they might not be as lucky.” He winced slightly. “Actually, I could go for that backrub now.”

Karelos found herself considering it for a second.

“I’m not actually serious. You’ve made it perfectly clear where your interests lie.”

“...You really are a bastard.”

“Who needs to be nice when they have looks, wealth, and a devious mind?”

“A sick mind.”

“Don’t make me gag you. There’s plenty of room in the trunk.”

“Well, aren’t we cheerful today.”

“I’m with you, aren’t I?”

She wished he wouldn’t say things like that. He didn’t even mean them.

Karelos folded her arms. “It’s getting dark. Hurry up.”

“All the better.” His eyes glittered with spite. “That precious city will be shown at its finest.”

They drove on.

By the time the pair arrived, it was sunset. The glowing buildings were the first stars of the city. Each windowpane was a faint glimmer on the towers that stretched upward to a darkening sky. Karelos, a city girl at heart, felt a sense of belonging among the skyscrapers and office buildings.

Various shops and clubs lined the streets now, bright neon signs flashing. They drove past the clusters of pedestrians enjoying the nightlife; Karelos secretly yearned to join them.

"We'll stop for the night." Noctis didn't bother taking his eyes off the road, though the streets were fairly empty. "You can look for whatever you're looking for in the morning."

"But it's barely past 6 o'clock! Can't you just--"

"No."

She frowned at him. "Just drop me off here then. I'll figure out where to go on my own."

"There's no way you'd be able to find your way around without me. But I'm not in the mood. Kick back, you're not going anywhere."

Karelos huffed in frustration. There was no reasoning with this man, but he had a point. Still, being under his control unnerved her.

"Are we going to sleep in the car or something?"

Noctis paused. "What do you take me for? Of course we're going to a hotel."

It wasn't going to be a cheap one either, she thought. "And then what?"

The corner of his lips curled up. "And then you can give me what you owe."

"Forget it!"

She jerked forward to protest and suddenly winced. Her chest hurt. She pulled back her jacket and took a peek under her shirt. A long red gash trailed from shoulder to hip, an imprint from the seatbelt when they had braked forcefully.

"I didn't even notice." She gingerly probed the injury, sharply drawing a breath. "Ouch."

Whether Noctis heard her or not, he didn't respond. Jerk.

At the core of the city was a magnificent building. Karelos suspected it was the Caelum Dynasty palace, where all matters concerning the city were discussed. With its many wings and large rooms, it functioned as part hotel as well as a government building. No doubt the inside would be intricately furnished...

"Are we staying there?" She pointed to the large building.

"My father's in town, so no." Noctis tried to hide it, but Karelos could see how he crinkled his nose in disgust.

She smiled to herself. His reaction comforted her. This man knew what it was like to come from a shaken home, where relations were no more than useful strangers. She hated to admit it, but the way Cloud had always been the 'perfect son' to his parents somewhat bothered her. His parents loved him, fawned over him, adored him. He was their pride and joy. She could never be one of those 'proper girls'.

Annoying as it was, that was another thing Stella had over her, the first being wealth.

...Why was she thinking about Stella anyway? Spending time with Noctis always aggrevated such useless thoughts. Damn.

As the night stretched on, Karelos found herself being lulled to sleep by the car engine's soft purr. Her chest ached, but her head somehow found a decent position against the window.

Her thoughts floated to Cloud and their past together, how he would talk so fondly about his favourite cousin, how his eyes would light up when he told her what they did for Father's Day. In a way, maybe she envied him. Maybe...

Noctis pulled to a stop beside a hotel, one not very far from Caelum palace. Shutting off the engine, he leaned back in the dark and looked at the unconscious girl beside him. His dark eyes flickered, reflecting light from passing traffic.

Karelos will never remember how carefully he peeled off her seatbelt and carried her up to the suite in his arms, and it's just as well. Had she been awake, there's probably no way he would have done it.

♦

A brunette reclined on a leather couch. Her wavy locks were pinned up in a diva-esque style, kept in place with a white jade hairpin. She sipped at a colourful drink, her eyes glued to the plasma screen T.V. set into the wall.

Despite occasional male advances, Kratalie was enjoying the evening alone. A year had passed since she moved to this strange neighbourhood. She had surprised herself with the idea of coming to Skylight, one of the city's popular lounges.

An old friend of hers would have also enjoyed a place like this.

But she was here on business. No time to reminisce.

"Well, aren't you delicious little thing?" A square-shouldered man approached her, large palms slicking back his oily hair. His droopy eyes took in the form-fitting canary yellow dress. After giving the girl a good one-over, his eyes rested on the large diamond ring she wore on her right hand. "Oh, yes. You're divine."

"And who are you?" Kratalie asked coolly, lifting up her cocktail once more. A shame you're not much of a looker, yourself.

"The name's Risotto."

Kratalie was amused. "Risotto? Like, to eat?"

"It's just a nickname." The man now seemed uncomfortable. "Look, I couldn't help noticing you from across the room. Are you... are you one of them, by any chance?"

The brunette took her sweet time replying, fiddling with a lock of hair. "I don't know what you're talking about."

"Don't lie! I can tell from that massive rock on your hand as well as the way you act. You are, aren't you? If so, I want in!"

The man blabbered on and on. It took all she had to stop from yawning.

"Sorry, but I have no idea what you're going on about." She waved her hand daintily, and immediately someone took her glass away. "Excuse me."

"But I'm not finished--"

Kratalie easily waved the speechless man aside. Years of living with a rich bachelor and attending all his fancy parties had given her an aura. The aura of someone better than you, someone you shouldn't mess with. Kratalie used this aura like a mask. In this place, you couldn't survive without one.

She exited Skylight, polished black heels clicking on the pavement. Her apartment wasn't far, merely half a block away. She would have called a cab, but she liked to walk in the evenings. Most everyone did, save for the ones too plastered to see straight and therefore preferred cabs by default.

She got no more than a couple steps before a pair of hands roughly grabbed her into an alleyway.

"Oh!"

For a split second, Kratalie feared it was the square-shouldered man from before, but who she saw before her quickly rid that suspicion. Mild blue eyes clashed with gray-green ones, more green than gray. The eyes of the person before her were light jade and every bit as cold, like stone. They were haunting to stare into, almost too much to look away.

He released her as abruptly as he had grabbed her. "Sorry," he mumbled. "I had to get you alone."

"Pardon?"

In the shadows, she watched him smooth out his jacket, a leather bomber. And... was that distressed denim? Kratalie blinked, squinting at the young man's white sneakers. Who was he, exactly?

She, too, straightened out her dress -- unsure of how to react. "You startled me. If you keep pulling girls into dark places like these, you're going to give them all heart attacks."

"There's not much time." The young man lowered his voice, which was oddly hoarse. "The King is back in the city. You have to come with me."

Cold metal was pressed into her hands. The feel of it was unmistakable. It was a handgun.

Kratalie blinked at him, trying in vain to make sense of everything.

"Won't you be needing this? I, myself, hardly know how to use such a thing--"

"You'll learn." He smiled crookedly, but it lacked the luster. In a second the smile was gone. "I'm armed too, but I hate using that shit."

Something glinted; Kratalie could have sworn he pulled out a knife, or a dagger of sorts.

"This belonged to my great-grandfather, a soldier." Just like his smile, for a brief second his hard eyes softened. "You might have heard of him, he went by the surname Berlin. I want to be like him, he was an excellent fighter--"

The boy paused, perhaps realizing his apparent trip down memory lane. How uncharacteristic of him! He was never one for words, but when it came to those he respected, he was doggedly loyal.

He seized her around the wrist. "Look, it doesn't make sense now, but I'll explain later. Alright? I'm not gonna hurt you. Follow me."

Kratalie found herself being whisked off deeper into the alley by this stranger, the slight fear in her heart subsiding by the second. There was a reassuring feel about him, although common sense kept reminding her to keep her guard up.

"Excuse me, but what's your name?" She found herself asking out of curiousity.

"Erik."

"I'm--"

"Ms. Wayne, right?"

She was taken aback by his assumption, but did nothing to correct him. It was true she often went by that alias in the past, but for someone to know that now... ?

The exited from the other side, out into the streets once more. Bathed in the streetlamps, Kratalie took sight of the sandy-haired blond beside her. The man was nothing short of a looker. A lot of youth in these parts were exceptionally beautiful, but this Erik seemed different. He seemed to wear an eternally indifferent expression, borderline irritated. For some reason, he appeared a lot younger than he had moments ago -- not younger than herself, but still.

"This way."

She could think of nothing else than to follow him to a worn building across the street.
  

♦

In a hotel room somewhere, a dark-haired girl sat up. The silk sheets were soft. When had she gotten here? She could barely recall. (Actually, she couldn't recall at all.)

"N...Noctis?"

She called his name, rubbing her head. Funny. A spot in her memory was filled with a dull ache and a sort of blankness. There was no way she'd admit it to him; he'd just tease her as a lightweight and blame it on the vodka. (What vodka?)

He seemingly materialized out of nowhere, looking as handsome and put-together as he always did. That was something that always amazed her: his ability to look impeccable, no matter what the situation was.

"You're finally awake," he said.

"Alive and kickin'!"

Karelos tried to laugh, but it was uncomfortable. Her injury hadn't been deep, but it was still enough to cause her pain. She pressed a hand to her chest and felt the outline of gauze. She stared at Noctis in disbelief.

"Did... did you undress me?" Her words met with silence. "You did, didn't you!"

"None of that is important."

He dismissed her accusation like it were nothing, and to him, it was just that. Her heart sped up as he joined her on the bed.

"But... so what if I had ?" Fingers trailed their way along the girl's side. "Consider the view... something you owed me."

Karelos yanked the blankets up in a feeble attempt to distance herself. "So we're even?"

"Hardly." The dark-haired man leaned a little closer and whispered, "It was still nothing new."

"Ugh! Jerk!"

She threw a pillow at him; he blocked it. She hurled another one and nimbly jumped out of bed, forgetting her discomfort in the midst of rage.

"I'm going out," she announced.

"Says who?" He shook the room's card key at her. "I only took one key."

She didn't bother asking for it. "I'll just get the other from the service desk."

Noctis didn't smile, but she could tell by his eyes he was amused. "I told the lady not to give it to anyone else. I was... quite persuasive."

There was no doubt about it; this was an evil man! Karelos's brow furrowed. That poor receptionist had no idea what hit her the moment she let Noctis Caelum check in.

"So what, I'm stuck with you? Sigh."

She lay back down on the mattress. Noctis watched her. He wanted to tell her 'Trust me, this is for the best'... but of course he would never dream of allowing those words past his lips.

He was getting soft, wasn't he?

He blamed it on the aging.

♦

The inside of the worn building was surprising elegant compared to the outside. A crystal chandelier was the only source of light; most of the bulbs were either broken or wearing out. As a result, the place was eerily dim.

"Why did you bring me here?" Kratalie asked, rubbing her upper arms. It was chilly in her sleeveless dress. She eyed the area suspiciously. Not a single soul was around, save for the two standing in the doorway right now.

But Erik was tense. He suspected danger in everything. His eyes even scrutinized the flecks of dust shaken across the room by their footsteps.

He didn't speak until they reached a grand archway. He pushed open the door. Rows and rows of abandoned chairs met their eyes. A trailing staircase covered by a red carpet led to a center stage, long abandoned by performers.

They were in an old theatre.

"This way," Erik insisted. He made to grab for her wrist-- fingers brushing against her hand in the process-- and began to lead her down the many steps. Only once they had reached a secluded room in the back did Erik begin to explain.

"The city's in trouble. Did Mr.Wayne-- Bruce, was it? -- ever talk about this city to you? Ever showed any interest in it, or said something in passing?"

"You're asking me to recall old memories, you know that?" Kratalie sat herself down on a creaky wooden chair and paused. "I think... he mentioned liking the architecture here. That's about it."

Erik seemed disinterested. "Hey, where's the gun?"

"I put it in there." Kratalie gestured to her handbag.

"Keep it on hand. You'd be surprised how much underground activity goes on around here."

"Why would I be? This city's reminiscent of Vegas."

"Whatever you may think, it's worse." Erik shook his head, sandy hair cascading over his forehead. "I don't really understand it myself, but corrupt offi[shals] from surrounding cities have their eyes set on this place."

"What do you plan to do about it?"

He averted his gaze. "I'm just a pawn, a'ight? Some higher-up's hired me to help, so here I am." He decided to omit certain details, but the jist of it was there.

"Okay... then why am I here?"

He stared at her. "You're the girlfriend of an influencial man, aren't you? I guess someone thinks you'll be useful."

"Woah, there. Bruce and I separated a long time ago. I hardly see him now--"

"Your personal relationships are none of my business, lady." Erik slid his hands into his pockets. "I'm supposed to protect you, so just accept it and everything will be easier."

So that was it, simple as that. The boy was just doing a job. But protect her from what?

♦

Karelos quickly realized that she wouldn’t be going anywhere. There was nothing she could do but wait. He’d fall asleep sooner or later, wouldn’t he? She wasn't sure what time it was, but the sun hadn't risen yet. Anyway, he probably felt as strained as she did after their near accident. And then she could get the key. No problem. She carefully rolled onto her side and feigned sleep. No matter what, she was getting out of here. If Noctis didn’t like it, that was too bad. He would just have to track her down if he wanted to punish her. And in a city this size, that would not be the easiest of tasks, no matter how familiar one was with the place.

“Would you like a drink?”

She buried her face in the one pillow that wasn’t on the floor.

“Eyes closed means I’m sleeping.”

“And here I thought you wanted to go on a grand adventure.”

“I need to get more rest,” she murmured, trying to sound drowsy. “You should too.”

“It’s impossible to sleep without some alcohol in me.” He paused. “Sleep well, that is. “

“Some? The bottles around your bed are always empty. You’re a total wino.”

“Says the girl who practically wrestled my vodka away from me.”

She rolled her eyes. “And you’re offering a lightweight like myself a drink because?”

“I have manners.” He pulled two tiny, heavily decorated, bottles out of the fridge. One was black and the other was white. “In fact, while you were asleep, I ordered these. They’re absurdly expensive, but I thought we could use a treat.”

“What’s with the different colours?”

“They make the white one special for me. I’m a good customer.”

“All right,” she said begrudgingly. “I’ll have a shot.”

Karelos sat up, gritting her teeth as fire radiated throughout her chest. It seemed as if her injury hurt more, but maybe some liquor would help numb the pain. He poured her an unidentifiable liquid from one of the bottles. It was golden with a reddish tint, sunset in a glass. But besides that, there was something glittering in it.

“Please tell me those aren’t diamonds.”

“Of course not. Diamonds would cut you up from the inside,” Noctis said, obviously amused. “They’re miniature crystals and are supposed to be flavour enhancing. Perfectly safe, but even if they weren’t… ” He shrugged. “No matter. Here’s one thing that this city is worth visiting for.”

“…Right.” She swirled the liquid in the glass and it shimmered. “It’s pretty.”

Noctis made a dismissive noise and poured his own drink, which was more orange than hers.

“Try it.”

“Why are you being so pushy?”

He raised an eyebrow. “Do you think that I’ve made your lovely little self an elixir of drugs?”

“Did you?”

“I don’t need to resort to backhanded methods to get what I want.”

“That hasn’t stopped you before.”

“I have no ulterior motives.”

Noctis seemed to be telling the truth. Not like anyone could ever tell if he was lying or not. However, he actually looked exasperated, which happened once in a blue moon. Maybe he just wanted her to try the city’s specialty. Nothing wrong with that. Besides, she had known him for so long that she would be surprised if he didn’t try something.

He held his hand out. “Give it back, if you’re so afraid.”

She ignored him and took a small sip. Her mouth was flooded with a lovely tang.

“Wow, this is delicious!”

“Isn’t it?” He smiled. “Quite strong, too.”

Karelos found herself clinking glasses with him. “Cheers!”

“Cheers.”

She quickly polished her drink off. Her stomach felt nice and warm; some sort of giddiness fizzed through her veins. Surprisingly, she found herself able to think quite clearly. That was a first. Drinks usually dulled her senses but this one made everything super focused. It was as if life were in high-definition.

“Hey, do the crystals—”

Her voice trailed off as he suddenly left the bed. He didn’t appear to have heard her. He gazed out the floor-to-ceiling window, holding his drink, which was only half-finished. She watched as his hand trembled, ever so slightly, before the glass fell to the floor and shattered.

“Noctis!” She ran to him, careful to avoid the shards on the floor. “What’s wrong?”

“My head...”

She held his arms. “You did get hurt in the car!”

“... I don’t understand.” He fumbled over his words. “I should be...”

“Oh god, you probably have a concussion or something. I’ll get help.”

His eyes blazed with sudden clarity. “The drink.”

“What? But there’s nothing wrong with me—oh!“

“Get out of here,” he said, struggling to stay on his feet. “I’ll...be fine.”

“Who would do this to you?”

“Doesn’t matter!”

“Noct—”

He shoved the card key into her hand. “Go!”

She fled from the room. At the door, she glanced back once, and wished she hadn’t. Noctis was lying on the floor, and even from here, she could tell that he was unconscious. She had to fight everything that told her to go back and stay with him, no matter what the consequences would be. Karelos took the stairs down to the lobby; with each step, guilt dropped on her like a stone, heavier each time.

She left at exactly the right moment.

The elevator stopped on their room's floor, a soft ding signalling its arrival.

♦

Kratalie wanted to know more about the situation she had found herself in. But every time she was about to speak, Erik would shoot her a warning look. Apparently, he didn’t feel like talking. That was fine with her. She had never been much of a chatterbox. She took the gun out of her bag and rested it on her lap. The contrast of dull metal on the bright fabric looked bizarre.

“Why are you smiling?”

His voice startled her after the long silence. “I didn’t know smiling was a crime.”

“Nice to know you’re finding all of this so funny.”

“Trust me, this is not amusing in the least.” She sighed. “All I want to do is go home and sleep.”

“You won’t be sleeping for a while.”

“No?” She frowned slightly. “Well, if I wanted to, you’d have to protect me, correct?”

He rubbed his jaw. “God, I really don’t need a deadweight. Listen, Ms.Wayne—”

“Please, call me Kratalie.”

“That your real name? Doesn’t matter. You’re going to have to change everything about yourself.”

“Pardon?” Her voice was faint. “Don’t you think that’s a little drastic?”

He shrugged. “Like I said, I’m just a pawn.”

“I understand you want to protect me, and I appreciate that, but—”

“C’mon, lady. What’s important here, your life or your hair colour?”

“I’m not that superficial!”

Erik looked mystified by her sudden change in demeanour. “Then what’s the problem?”

“I dislike change,” she said, eyes fixed on the weapon in her lap. “No, I hate it.”

“You gotta learn to deal.”

“I’ve been dealing just fine, thank you.” She shook her head. “Never mind.”

“Jesus.” He blew out a breath. “No one told me I’d need to be a psychologist for this job.”

“Well, at least I’m not that idol who had a breakdown.”

Erik cracked a smile.“The dude with those weird hats and teacup fetish?”

“Yes. I’m quite sane.”

“That’s a relief.”

Kratalie found herself liking the boy. He was a little rough around the edges, but she could tell that he was a good person. She was not one to be impressed by names, but to think, she actually knew someone related to the famous Berlin! It was strange, but she felt better about the fact that she was going to be sitting in an abandoned theatre for who knew how long.

“Hold up.” Erik cocked his head. “Did you hear that?”

She listened carefully. “No.”

“There’s someone here.”

“Are you sure?”

He held out his hand, warning her not to say anything more. He motioned for her to stay seated when she began to rise as well. Kratalie sat back down, heart thumping in her chest. He inched out of the room, a shadow, and was gone. The serious expression on his face unnerved her. Everything had seemed like a game until this point, like something she could stop anytime if she grew tired of playing.

All was quiet. Perhaps he had been mistaken...

She really wished she knew how to use a gun.

♦

At the sound of the elevator, Karelos quickened her pace down the last steps and found herself on the fourth floor. The hallway of doors was a repetitive blur as she blew past. All the while, her mind raced. What would she do; where would she go? And, what would happen to Noctis...?

She smoothed back her long hair and tried to calm herself as she walked. So she had no money; big deal, that was nothing new. The problem she faced was figuring out where to go. Now that Noctis had been, well, knocked out of the picture, everything had been turned into a one-girl-show.

It would be impossible for her to plan any sort of rescue. She didn’t exhort the same type of power he did. She was feeling pretty damn useless, but whatever. No use in wallowing in self-pity. If Noctis was to be cut up and dumped somewhere unpleasant, so be it! What business was it of hers? It’s not like she loved him…

Was that a lie?

In any case, she had to get out of this goddamn hotel. She was feeling terribly underdressed compared to all the elegant women in gowns accompanied by tuxedo-clad gentlemen. They tried to hide their stares, but she felt the way they secretly eyed her behind her back. It gave her chills.

The door was right there. She was almost out of here.

Then her path to freedom was blocked by precisely one of those well-dressed men.

"It would be in your best interest to come with me," the gentleman said. She stared at him. He looked like some secret service guy, with his dark hair and shades.

"Pardon? My best interests? That's a laugh. You don't even know me."

She moved to brush past him. He moved to block her way.

“H-hey!” The girl yelped, as the man grabbed her around the arms. He was surprisingly strong for his size, easily lifting her up over his shoulder. “What do you think you’re doing! HEY!!”

Her protests fell on deaf ears. No one so much as batted an eye. To them, there was no need to make a scene; it was just security escorting an unruly teenager out of the building.

♦

Noctis awoke to find himself tied to a chair. Ever the calculating one, the moment he regained consciousness his mind began to plan ways to escape. The room they kept him in was dark, but he knew where he was instantly: Caelum Palace. Most likely, he was in one of the many study rooms.

The window was an option, but chances stood that his captors were smart enough to keep him higher than the first floor. Maybe he could use the desk to his advantage, if he could somehow loosen his bonds …

“You’re finally awake,” a deep voice resonated from within the darkness, interrupting his thoughts. “I was beginning to wonder how long it’d take.”

“Of course, it had to be you. I should have known.” Noctis smiled grimly to himself. “After all, who else would know my ‘usual’? Long time no see… Father.”

“You’ve certainly grown. You were still a boy the last time I saw you.”

“What, five years ago?” Noctis couldn’t help but chuckle. “Give me a break, and cut the theatrics. Why have you brought me here? In chains, no less?”

It was odd to be speaking to a disembodied voice, but Noctis was perfectly composed. He was used to the dark; actually he preferred it. But not only that— his father wouldn’t have gone through all this trouble for no reason. No, his father planned to make use of him—which meant he was safe, for now.

“Why? Couldn’t it be that I merely wanted to see my only son?”

“But of course! Asking politely is beyond you.”

“You wouldn’t have come.”

“You’re right. I wouldn’t have. But you still haven’t answered the question.”

“I need your help, son.”

Noctis smirked, certain the older man would notice, no problem. “Like I would ever help you.”

“I’m afraid you don’t have a choice.”

“What are you getting at?”

But that was the end of it. Noctis’s question was left to echo long after silence reclaimed the room.

Shit. Noctis pulled against his restraints. “… he could have at least untied me.”

♦

Erik poked his head out of the rec room. It was dark outside, and the noise he thought he heard was nothing now. He couldn’t have imagined it, but he decided to let it go. No use in freaking out the resident young lady.

“You’re a funny kid,” he said, upon rejoining Kratalie. “I thought I was the only one that did that.”

“Excuse me?” Kratalie had been thinking fond thoughts of the boy before, but that came to an abrupt halt. “Did you just call me a kid?”

“That’s what you are, aren’t you? you can’t be older than seventeen.”

“Eighteen,” Kratalie corrected, unsure of what to think. He just called her a kid! She was no child, despite acting like one sometimes. Some - times!

“You seem offended. Take it as a compliment. Don’t women love being called young?”

“I’m not even old.” She found herself pouting a bit despite herself. “And do what? What did I do, anyway?”

“Smile, when no one’s looking. And at times for no reason.”

“I don’t do that,” Kratalie lied. “I have reasons for-- ”

“Shh!” Erik hissed, cutting her off. “I swear someone’s outside.”

Without hesitation, he drew his knife. It was in remarkable condition for its age, with a sharp glint and polished handle. His great-grandfather’s initials were carved where the blade met the hilt: K.BERLIN

Stripping off his jacket, he tossed it at Kratalie and vanished out the door.

He was correct in assuming something was out of place. Indeed someone had made their way into the old theatre-- Two people, in fact.

♦

Karelos thought that he would let her down once they left the hotel. But he merely continued down the rainbow-lit streets, as if having a girl over his shoulder wasn’t unusual. Her cheeks burned with humiliation: just when she had thought that nothing could embarrass her anymore, something like this happened. Her instinct to call for help weakened with every pokerfaced person she managed to catch the eye of.

What was wrong with the citizens here? The people they passed gave them cursory glances, but nobody said a word. They were all too eager to return to laughing and admiring one another’s flashy jewellery. No one in this god-forsaken place would lift a finger to help; it was of no concern to them what happened to an outsider like her.

She had to save her own ass before she ended up like Noctis.

At the thought of him, probably being tortured somewhere, her throat constricted. Oh no, not this, anything but this. The last thing she needed was to get all weepy. Especially for someone she didn’t care about. Her priority now was getting away from this man. If only she carried a weapon on her, but she hadn’t done that for a while. Stabbing the guy in the back wasn’t an option.

“Is this really necessary?” she asked.

He weaved through a throng of people without a word.

“At least tell me what you want.”

Again, no comment.

“What’s with the silent trea—”

Her voice trailed off as he ducked into an alley. She expected to see heaps of garbage, bums bedding down for the night, but this city had no such blemishes. Nonetheless, it was still an alley. It was dark. There was no one here, not that it mattered. But alarm bells began to sound in her head. She knew perfectly well what happened to girls who found themselves in these situations.

With all her remaining strength, she began to struggle wildly. Whether through luck or fate, she managed to catch him off balance. They tumbled to the ground. She heard a crack. White spots dotted her vision as her chest hit the cement. Even so, she staggered to her feet, using the wall (glass, not brick, she thought dreamily) as support.

The man sat up slowly but kept his eyes closed. He raised a hand to the back of his head and pulled it away to reveal bloodstained fingers. So he had busted his skull open after their fall. She grinned darkly at him. Good. The bastard deserved it.

She wanted to run before he grabbed her again, but her legs had turned to unreliable lumps of jelly. She decided to give herself one minute to get her act together. Plus, the drink… it made everything look as if it were underwater: complete contrast to its first effect. In her mind she knew that her chest hurt, what with the seatbelt injury and then the crash landing, but the pain seemed to belong to someone else.

The man looked down at his red hands. “You’re a troublemaker.”

“That’s what they say.”

“Give me my glasses.”

She felt woozy. “Pardon?”

He gestured at her feet. She looked down to see the shades. Somehow they remained intact. The urge to step on them, crush them to bits, overwhelmed her. Well, in this city, who was to say that they were made of plastic? Maybe they were crafted from black diamonds. Noctis would be able to tell her…

“Stay awake,” he ordered in that calm voice. “I’ll let you walk with me.”

“Thanks for your permission.”

“Look at me.”

At the alarm in his voice, she managed to lift her head up. The boy —his face was rather youthful— had the most beautiful violet eyes. But by now she wasn’t believing anything she saw. This was all a dream, induced by that blasted drink. She needed to sleep it off.

Damn you, Noctis.

The boy caught her as she slipped into the darkness.

♦

“Steady. We don’t want anyone to get hurt.”

Erik put his knife away with skilful ease. “You’re so loud. I could hear you from the room.”

“Oh?” Violet eyes sparkled with merriment. “Aren’t you the voyeur.”

“Not like that.” Erik sighed. “Your footwork needs improvement.” He gave them once-overs, seeming unimpressed by the girl in his arms. “Why aren’t you wearing your shades, Faust?”

“Because it’s dark outside.”

“Lights are on 24/7 in this city.” Erik wasn’t amused. “Where’s the guy?”

“Caelum’s been apprehended.”

“What? How do you know that?”

“The girl, Karelos, checked in with him. But she was leaving alone.”

“God.” Erik turned around and began walking. “This is just great.”

Faust followed. “You need to relax.”

“Sure! We can all have a sleep over with Ms.Wayne! I’m sure she’ll be happy.”

“You found her?”

“Yeah.” Erik glanced over his shoulder. “I try to do my job.”

“Last time I checked, we weren’t even sure what that was.”

Erik muttered something as they walked down the aisle of the theatre. They came to the room and he pushed the door open with his shoulder. He took a few steps inside before coming to a halt. Faust nearly bumped into him, but managed to move aside.

“Where the hell is she?”

“I’m not sure why you believe I’d know the answer to that.”

Erik glanced around, knowing it was foolish, but having a tiny hope that the girl was just hiding somewhere. But the room was bare, save from a few chairs and table, so there was nowhere she could conceal herself.

Faust paid no attention to his friend’s mad pacing. He carefully put Karelos on top of the table, seeing no other option. He would have preferred a couch, even if she had practically killed him. His head ached dully. At least he had managed to wash the blood off his hands, if not his hair. If Erik found out, he’d lose it.

His eyes fell on a leather jacket. “She was nice enough to leave that for you.”

“Goddamnit!” Erik kicked a chair. “I thought she knew better than to go wandering off. I told her that I was here to protect her. I told her—”

“I found a vending machine,” came a mild voice. “It still works.”

The two young men turned to see a brunette standing in the doorway. In one hand she had a candy bar, and in the other a bottle of pop. She looked a little self-conscious —knowing very well how much the junk food and her expensive clothes clashed— as she strode towards them. Like Erik, she came to an abrupt stop, but this time for the completely opposite reason.

There was a girl in the room.

♦

"Are you seriously thinking of eating that?" Erik said in mild disgust. "You have no idea how long it's been sitting in that machine!"

Kratalie crossed her arms indignantly. "Well then, are we just supposed to starve? It's not like you're going to bring me any take-out, and it seems like we're going to be here a while!"

"Give me that." Erik swiped the chocolate bar out of Kratalie's hands. He moved to take the soda, but Kratalie backed away and glared at him.

"Listen here, you--"

A pale hand clapped onto Erik's shoulder. "Come Wolfe, don't go starting an argument with a lady. That's hardly mature."

He turned to Kratalie. "We'll be relocating to an apartment shortly. Rest assured that supplies will be there, and it'll be much better than whatever's here. What do you say?"

"Sure."

She gave him the drink. He set it on the table next to the unconscious Karelos. Kratalie peeked at her friend from the corner of her eye. They hadn't seen each other in almost a year. There was no mistaking it though; the girl on the table was her schoolmate. She duly noted how Karelos's hair had grown longer, her hips fuller, but the slender body still retained hints of girlishness while her own had long matured into that of a woman's.

Erik seemed impatient, and not knowing the two girls were formerly acquainted, said, "Don't you know it's rude to stare? Come on. We'll leave through the back."

He slipped careful arms around Karelos and lifted her up. The girl stirred slightly, hands resting over her injured chest. A soft murmur escaped her lips, inaudible to all but Erik who seemed unsettled by it.

Faust shot Kratalie a charming smile, allowing the brunette to catch his glowing violet eyes in clear view: a deep royal purple. In contrast to his hair, which was a rather common shade of ebony, they were strange. How on earth did she happen to come across these two strange boys?

"Come with me. Don't be afraid." He extended his hand again, and she took it. They entertwined fingers. "Wolfe, hurry up."

"I'm right behind you. Geez..."

Quietly, everyone slipped out into the night. Faust filled the silence with casual chatter, asking Kratalie about her hobbies, interests, what her favourite foods were-- while Erik was more focused on the girl in his arms than the ground he was walking on.

So this was Karelos Wilder. He didn't remember going to school with her, though apparently she attended in the same junior high. They had lied; look-wise, she barely resembled his sister, who had dark, chestnut-brown curls that feathered out on the sides. He was also quite sure Karelos's eyes weren't green. But maybe they hadn't meant appearance...

I'm not who you think I am, he told her in his mind. The person you called out for... I'm not him...

"Where are you going, Wolfe? We're already here."

Erik looked up to see the massive apartment complex, DiamondDust Properties. Faust owned an impressive bachelor's suite here. He had strolled right past the entrance doors without so much of a glance.

"Welcome back," a lady greeted Faust as they entered, her gaze lingering on Kratalie who stood stiffly beside him. With her fancy dress and his suit, they looked every bit the elegant couple. "Oh! Is this your girlfriend? I've never seen you bring anyone home before..."

Faust put a finger to his lips and winked. The woman giggled knowingly and bid him a good evening. They were on their way again.

"So what's the plan?" Erik asked, as they ascended the stairs. It was difficult to do so holding a girl in his arms, but he was much too impatient to wait for the elevator and thus they took to the steps.

"I suspect we might have to venture deeper into the interior. That's where all the conflict lies." Faust seemed almost cheery as he walked along, still gripping Kratalie's fingers loosely. "Our hands will get dirty, for sure."

"Excuse me, but where do I play into this?" Kratalie spoke up for the first time in a while. "Why am I in danger? And why is K... is that girl here as well?"

"I'm not going to lie." Faust gave her hand a comforting squeeze before continuing. "They want to kill you both."

"Why! What did we do?"

"It's not a matter of your actions. As the founders, Noctis's family-- or in your case, Mr. Wayne -- have both disagreed to hand control of central government to the surrounding provinces. And so they have targeted you two, their loved ones." Faust paused to collect his thoughts. "This is a fairly new city, with much potential. Many covet control of it's wealth and resources. White jade and black crystal, for example. The ores here-- specifically the diamonds, seem to exhibit strange properties..."

"Who cares about the state of things," Erik spat. "What matters is doing what's right."

"And we are, my friend. No worries."

Overhearing the conversation, it was impossible to guess that one of them planned to turn traitor.

♦

Noctis expected his father to send people to discuss matters—code for torture, Caelum family joke— with him, but no one came. He remained alone in the dark for minutes, hours, it didn’t matter. Not that he minded: that was how he spent most of his time lately. However, being bound like a prisoner of war, left to die...he preferred freedom, whatever the cost. Once again, he tested the ropes that kept him trapped. Futile. Whoever tied him up had their boy scout badge in knot tying. At least they didn’t shackle him. Who said that he wasn’t optimistic?

He shifted around, trying to get in a comfortable position to continue waiting, but nothing worked. The chair was some splintery old thing that had probably been imported from another city. He doubted that it had been manufactured here. This city was pleasure-oriented.

There was nothing his father could do to make him help. Good luck.

His mind began to wander but he reigned it back firmly. There was no point in thinking about anyone but himself. Other people had their uses, but once they fulfilled their purpose, he no longer gave them the time of day. At least now he had all but given up on the wild parties and the endless women. They were gorgeous, some more charming than others, but all of them were one time use only, expendable. After waking every morning to a different face, he’d had enough. Pretending to remember their names took too much effort. Not that he even tried.

If there was one thing Noctis didn’t do, it was regrets. He couldn’t recall a time where he had felt remorse for any of his past actions. But his one mistake was Karelos. With her, he kept on throwing caution to the wind. Because she had asked him for a ride, he had driven her here, knowing very well what kind of place this was. He had jumped through a hoop to please her. Just like a dog...

Just like Strife.

Were they alike after all?

He dismissed the thought. No, there really was no comparison. He was pure: not of heart, of breeding, as his family constantly preached. Strife was a mongrel of sorts. Riding around on that godforsaken vehicle, working hard to pay his bills, the kind of person who’d turn the other cheek. But he was lucky, and he didn’t even know it. His shitty ride didn’t break down; she always returned to him, no matter what Noctis did. The boy—he refused to acknowledge that they were closer in age than not—was good. There were not many people who could truly be called such. Maybe that was why she liked the blond in a way she could never...

“Are you in here?”

The feminine voice snapped him out of his reverie. He smiled, knowing she couldn’t see it in the dark. If she had, she would have been frightened out of her wits, the poor dear. Well, this was a fortunate turn of events!

“Stella. What a pleasant surprise.”

♦

“Why isn’t she waking up?”

“Stop asking that, lady.” Erik sighed. “She’s not dead or anything.”

“You’re not worried?”

He glanced at the folder he was flipping through. “Nope. She’s with us now.”

Kratalie wanted to debate his lack of concern; she had a strong suspicion that it was merely a front. She had seen the way he constantly snuck glances at Karelos. But as usual, she kept her mouth shut. She tucked her legs beneath her on the loveseat. On the opposite side of the room, Karelos slept in a giant, plush bed. Faust had sent his personal doctor to get her checked out. In addition to the wound on her chest and a few scrapes and bruises, her blood alcohol level was sky high. The doctor told them that she had either been on a serious bender or that she had ingested the city’s specialty.

At that, Kratalie had practically jumped out of her skin. Even she, a girl who quite fancied sampling different beverages, had never tried the drink. She had been too anxious. According to rumour, the crystals made the drink delicious; however, they were extremely potent, and the wrong dose could send you to sleep forever.

Why on earth had Karelos come here, and with Noctis of all people?

“The doctor said she’d regain consciousness within an hour.”

“It’s been 57 minutes.” He chuckled dryly at her expression. “Like I said, relax.”

“I’d rather not be here when she wakes up.”

“Why the hell not?”

“I...no reason, really, I’m just being silly.”

“When Faust gets back you can tell him all your problems. He’s a real good listener.”

She couldn’t tell if he was being sarcastic or not. “Where is he, anyway?”

“You ask too many questions.”

Kratalie smoothed down the front of her dress as she came to a standing position. She thought she’d been able to handle their eventual reunion, but apparently that wasn’t the case. It had been quite a while since they’d last seen each other; it would be awkward to speak to her old friend. She had a new life in this city. And she enjoyed it. Going out to clubs, being giving VIP treatment thanks to Bruce, having all the money she could want...it was the kind of life many could only dream of. There was no reason for her to think of small town adventures, of friends she had left behind. But the emptiness in her heart told her otherwise.

“Sit down,” Erik ordered. “If you want something, I’ll get it.”

“I’m going to the bathroom. Female troubles.”

He didn’t appear fazed at all. “You have three minutes before I track you down.”

Kratalie pretended to listen as he gave instructions about where to go. She couldn’t stay in the room for a moment longer. Not that she planned to run away; she knew that they would find her before she got very far. All she needed was a little fresh air to clear her head. Erik could fill Karelos in when she woke up, tell her that there was another girl who was under his protection. That would be better than a sudden face to face meeting, wouldn’t it?

“Two minutes.”

Kratalie shot him a look and hurried out of the room. If she’d had time, she would have liked to observe the paintings on the wall more closely, but she didn’t. This apartment was much nicer than hers. She made a mental note to ask Faust how much moving here would cost. Even though she and Bruce were no longer together, she was in danger because of him. The least he could do was give her more money...

She amazed herself at even thinking such a thing. Had the city corrupted her that easily?

“You’re certainly in a hurry.”

“Faust!” Kratalie was startled by his sudden appearance. “I’m looking for the bathroom.”

“Down the hall and to the left.”

“Thanks.”

He caught her by the elbow as she passed. She looked at him, waiting for him to speak, but he didn’t say anything. His eyes flickered from her face to the ring on her finger. They stood like that for a few seconds, as if they were playing a game of statues. Faust let her go with a little laugh and she joined in, but her uneasiness lingered.

“That was a little...”

“Strange, I apologize,” Faust said breezily. “I was checking something.”

“And that would be what, exactly?”

“No need to concern yourself with such trivial matters.”

Hands planted themselves on her shoulders and Kratalie stifled a shriek.

“Got you,” Erik growled. “Time’s up!”

Back in the elegantly furnished room, Karelos stirred on the bed.

Her eyes flickered open.

♦

If the girl had caught the malice edging his voice, she didn’t show it in the slightest. Instead she entered the room and, without delay, proceeded to fret over him. It all went exactly down to prediction.

“I was worried sick about you, darling! Why, when I had heard they had you locked up in here honey-bun, I just had to come on over and rescue you!”

Arms clumsily snaked their way around his body. Noctis leaned into her embrace, charm already in full effect.

“I've missed you so,” he murmured softly into her ear, nuzzling against her neck with his lips. He wished his hands were free, but he’d make do. “How did you know I’d be here?”

She sniffed. “I saw them dragging you into the building! They had your face covered, but I knew in my heart it was my sugar-bun! Love is never mistaken, you know...”

Noctis almost yawned. This was how it was with Stella, no, with most women. They adored him, they sought to please him— a man they knew nothing about. They were stupid. He took advantage of that.

“You’re an angel,” he purred. “May I have the privilege of holding you in my arms?”

Stella’s eyes widened in a sudden realization. “Of course! How could I forget, I mean here you are, tied and suffering, and I’m just standing idly by!”

She was awfully loud as she rummaged through the room for scissors, a knife—anything that could cut. Noctis vaguely wondered why she didn’t simply turn on the lights, but it was for the best. He acted better when he couldn’t see that it was her he was with.

In the end, all she could find was a letter opener in the desk. Noctis shrugged. He doubted it would get the job done, but it was worth a shot.

He sat calmly as Stella sawed away at the ropes behind him. Where would he go first? It was true that caring about others was not in his nature, but he could at least hunt down Karelos for leaving him to rot. Yes, that sounded like a smashing idea.

“Are you done yet?” he asked mildly, impatience flooding him.

“I’m trying my best, muffin!”

Noctis cringed. God, how he hated when she called him by that name.

♦

Slowly Karelos awoke from her deep slumber. Her head ached, as did the various cuts and scratches marking her body.

She climbed out of bed. Bare feet scraped against the floor (Erik had tugged off her shoes upon arrival) and she nearly stumbled face-first onto the ground. She was in a strange place, where potential horrors might be what she had to face, and yet... She felt contented. She couldn't remember anything. Not last night, nor the day before.

How did she get here to begin with?

Bleary eyes surveyed the area in vain. Nothing was getting through. On the bright side though, her body felt warm. Like every part of her had been wrapped tightly in a cocoon. It was very comforting. The world was spinning, but it was of no concern. All she knew was that extreme enlightenment coursed through her veins. She was safe from the world's troubles, finally out of reach. Nothing mattered. Only existing.

A door opened, followed by the echo of footsteps. Karelos turned towards the sound, still on the floor.

Faust was the first to notice her there. "How are you feeling?"

He made to help her up, but she ignored it completely.

"Are... your eyes real?"

He blinked. "Yes. I'd let you touch them, but that would be unnecessarily painful on my part."

"They're pretty!" She stared and stared. "I had a dream once, where someone I knew had red eyes..."

"Is she rambling nonsense?" Erik poked his head out from behind Kratalie. His grip on the girl tightened. "Faust! I thought you said she'd be okay in an hour!"

"Correction: I said she'd be awake. As for her mental state after consuming what she has, that's open to a whole other level of discussion." He furrowed his brow. "However, it's been a while since I've been complimented that way..."

"Now's not the time to be flattered!"

"Could you maybe let go of me?" Kratalie squirmed out from under his hold, rubbing at her shoulders. Erik mumbled an apology and shoved his hands into his pockets.

Well, perhaps it was better this way. Karelos was off in la-la land, which meant an awkward reunion was certainly out of the question. Oh, how Kratalie did love when life played in her favour.

"What can we do to help her?" Erik seemed disgruntled. "Is she stuck like this forever?"

"I don't know," Faust confessed. "Part of the reason why this drink is so sought after-- not to mention expensive-- is because it allows one to escape reality. It should wear off eventually, but it seems like she's had more than the recommended dosage."

Karelos smiled up at the figures standing over her. She heard their voices, but everything was so far away. Were they talking about her? A vague notion told her this was so, but she didn't care. Everything was good! Now if only that red-eyed man from her dreams were here. She wanted to tell him she loved him.

♦

The ropes finally slackened. Noctis got to his feet and stretched, cautiously tilting his head this way and that to ease his sore muscles. Blood rushed back into his arms; he found the sensation of pins and needles to be strangely satisfying. Stella burbled away behind him and he resisted the urge to smack her upside the head. Contrary to popular belief, he didn’t really condone violence unless it was necessary.

Unfortunately, violence was necessary more often than one would think.

“Sugar-bun?” she piped up, artificially sweet. “I hope they didn’t hurt you!”

He ignored her and began to edge his way towards the door. He couldn’t see where he was going, but he had duly registered where she had been standing previously. The plan was to get out of here before she knew he was gone; his eyes had adjusted to the lack of light whereas hers hadn’t.

But hands looped around his waist and she pressed herself to him. Women! Did she really think now was the best time to become the beast with two backs? His skin crawled as she breathed soppy declarations of love in his ear. At this proximity, there was no way he could pretend she didn’t exist.

“You know what, honey-bun?”

He made a small noise in the back of his throat that could have meant anything.

“I missed you too! More than anything in the entire world!”

Obviously, the woman hadn’t learned that whispering was the way to go when sweet talking, especially when guards could kick down the door any second. He was tempted to shake her off, but she was already loud enough. A rejection like that might send her overboard into dramatic squealing. Besides, she had connections in this city. Her usefulness wasn’t up just yet.

“Stella, I’d like you to do something for me.”

She inhaled sharply. “Anything for you, pumpkin!”

“Could you use your… talents to distract anyone who might be in the hallway?”

“My talents?”

“Surely you know that you’re a delightful conversationalist.”

She giggled and tightened her hold on him. “Oh, muffin!”

Noctis had a sudden conviction that he would die here. He would never get to the door. This idiotic woman would keep him in her grasp and refuse to let go of him. Rage began to seep into his system but he resisted. He was not going to let such a simpering fool get to him. Not now, not ever.

He stepped out of her embrace, oil separating from water. “Good. Let’s go.”

He pulled the door open. The lights were all turned down low, so his eyes weren’t caused unnecessary pain. He carefully scanned the area. To his mild amusement, no one was there. Apparently they thought his chance of escaping was slim to none.

Noctis had one foot out the door when he remembered her. She had been quiet for so long that he had nearly forgotten that she was there. With great resignation, he turned back; he couldn’t let her stay here, unnecessary or not. She’d blab to anyone with ears that he had left her alone.

Stella looked at him, lower lip quivering. “My heel broke.”

“Take your other shoe off.”

“What?”

He gestured impatiently. She stooped over and managed to do so with the grace of an elephant. Noctis was glad that her face was hidden for these few seconds. He had nearly managed to forget how absurd she looked.

She handed it to him. Without a word, he snapped its heel off and gave her shoe back.

“Now they match. Isn’t that nice, Stella?”

She nodded, although her eyes welled up with tears. “But they were my favour—!”

He moved away from her, uninterested in her distress.

There was business to attend to.

♦

Kratalie looked down at her friend, who had curled up on the stately carpet like a cat. She had no idea what she was supposed to do now. They had tried moving Karelos somewhere more comfortable but she had resisted. The two young men murmured together in the hallway. They thought that it would be better for Karelos to see another female when she came out of this trance-like state. There was nothing like waking up to two strange men! Apparently a girl would be less stressful.

Kratalie doubted their judgment.

She glanced at the doorway, wanting them to come back inside. They could talk in here, couldn’t they? She knew that they had to be careful revealing information, but even so…it was hard to get a handle on the situation if she didn’t know anything. All she knew were their names and a few details they had given her. Although they were amicable enough, especially Faust, she wasn’t sure if trusting them was the best idea.

A small voice brought her attention back to the girl on the floor. Kratalie gingerly knelt down beside her, wondering if the drink would invoke violence, and then decided that it didn’t matter. Karelos had never been a violent drunk anyway. She had been the one who couldn’t handle her liquor.

Karelos stared at her, stared through her, more accurately. “I…love…love...”

The brunette wasn’t sure if she was being addressed to, or if this was more dream talk, but decided to reply. What would be the harm? She took a breath before speaking, hoping that she wouldn’t sound like a little girl.

“Love who?” Her voice was steady. “Love what?”

“I’m not supposed to,” Karelos said, as if she hadn’t spoken at all. “But I do.”

Tears pooled in her eyes but Karelos didn’t seem to notice that she was crying. She continued to look at Kratalie, who might have been anyone as far as she was concerned. Kratalie found herself frozen in place for a second. Then the pain on her friend’s face, the hurt radiating off her in waves, spurred her into action.

Without a word, she helped Karelos sit up. The girl made no move to protest, unlike her previous behaviour. She dabbed at her tearstained cheeks with a handkerchief. The light brown eyes were glazed over but slowly began to flicker with understanding.

“I’ll take care of you.”

Karelos leaned into her. “Okay.”

“Do you know who I am?”

“I’m not sure…everything’s still fuzzy.”

“It’s all right,” Kratalie said. “We can take it slow.”

She wondered what Karelos had been talking about, but didn’t want to interrogate her, didn’t want to pry, even though she found herself wanting to get into the girl’s mind, just like before. Besides, she had probably half-forgotten her feverish rambling already.

Erik and Faust watched from the doorway. They had been about to enter the room but decided against it. The scene before them was strangely tender. Just barging in would be out of place. They exchanged glances; one of them surprisingly touched by the warmth of the two girls, the other knowing that everything would fall apart, sooner rather than later.