“I… don’t like the feel of this, not one bit.” William said as his eyes were on the screen.
He’s watching the town, and can see all the strange occurrences that have been brewing. He normally keeps his eyes on Jack, but with his senses tingling, this is something that he can’t help but need to watch/observe.
“Not only are Esper's showing up, but the supposed cult that worships the Witch of Envy is creeping around corners.”
William rubbed his bristly chin.
“Ahh! I wish I could intervene! But I can’t.” he sighs, “oh well, at least I have something to keep me entertained. So long as they don’t go too far then I can let it slide, for now that is.”
William nodded, and grew a smile.
“I already know that she and I will cross paths again. It’s only a matter of time. I just have to wait, see how things play out, and then—Wabam! I can make my grand entrance and introduce myself to the final Sin I have yet to meet!”
William grew excited, and felt greedy.
“Listen to me… I sound horribly needy for some proper drama and entertainment! I know I’m suppose to watch Jack-o-lantern but this—this is something that's been teasing me so bad for the past almost two decades!”
William grabbed his head, and briefly laughed, then blew his arms out.
“Damn it, Archard! And…” William went for his cane that was resting against his cloud chair. “...You as well, my love.”
He gripped the cane, and deeply sighed.
“In the end, it was mainly you who spoke of the events, and were the one to conclude it. If it wasn’t for you, then I’m sure I would’ve most likely taken the Witch of Envy’s life if God intended on it.”
William grew a grin, and held the cane close.
“I-I miss you… very much, my love.”
His phone then rang, and William quickly grabbed it within his suit pocket. He saw who was calling him, and it made him smile brightly. He answered and had an open mouth smile.
“Yes! This is your wonderful—”
The person on the other side of the phone talked loudly, but her voice sounded unmotivated yet gentle. It made William push the phone away from his ear for a moment and bring out a subtle chuckle.
“Alright alright, it was me! I rewinded time, altered it, but everything’s normal where you’re at, right?”
The person over the phone sighed, but the way she explained it made William grow nervous.
“Da-Darling… I know, I know, just try to relax, remember about what you are! I know you miss me and I haven’t called in some weeks. So be a good young woman and behave yourself! Please?”
She moaned, but William heard a light chuckle, which made him smile more.
“That’s my girl! And look, when all this blows over, I promise we’ll go to that dimension I always talked about.”
Without making another sound, the girl then said something that wiped the smile off his face, and made him grow curious.
“You had another lucid dream? But of what kind?” he asked, sounding serious.
William waited for her response, and had a brow raise. When she managed to say what she dreamt about, this made William raise another brow, and nod.
“Oh? Is it about the same boy you dreamt about? But this time you only heard his voice, and snapped?”
She explained she couldn’t remember much afterward, she had blacked out and once she managed to see a glimpse of his terrified face, she awoke. William knew what made her black out, but didn’t want to tell her.
“Hey, describe to me—of this young man, one more time, the last time you actually saw him.”
He waited, and she stayed quiet. For a moment, she went completely dead silent, but after a minute of intense silence, she described his appearance, and with each description, it made William express a gentle smile. After she said every detail of this guy she's dreamt of since she was a little girl to where they’re at now, it deepened more of this mysterious curiosity William had dwelling on. William closed his eyes for a moment, and he looked more pleased than ever.
“Thank you, I’ll be sure to keep an eye out and see where your dream guy could be.”
The girl giggled, but it sounded unmotivated and dead. William knew it was genuine despite its sound. She said her goodbyes, and wished her best condolences to him.
“I love you too, darling, take care. I’ll call you a week from now, and behave at your school! I heard a complaint about you getting into another fight. Could you do that for me?”
She agreed and said bye one last time before hanging up. William put his phone away and went back to the screen, watching what will happen next from the events brewing. His guilted excitement had him on edge, and biting his tongue: He can’t wait for the day he can actually intervene and finally meet the final holder of Sin he’s yet to come face to face.
“What was her actual name? Right… Abyzou.”
William shook his head, and let out a soft chuckle.
“I have to thank that selfish doctor again for introducing me to this part of the country. If it weren’t for him, then all of this would’ve never happened and I would’ve never have met you—”
William pointed at the screen, and it changed to where Jack was having a conversation with Linnea. He closed his finger and balled his fist.
“Jack Samr. Goodness, how these turn of events are turning out in my favour besides this unknown entity that has intervened in them.”
William gripped his chin, and frowned.
“Whoever they are, they’re still watching, and lurking around the corners of reality. Whatever they are, I think they’re also aware of me knowing of their presence. Tch… what a troublesome individual.”
William furrowed his brows, and tapped his cane once on the ground, bringing his eyes to his golden staff.
“Our meeting is near, I can feel it. It’s only a matter of when for them, and whoever they are, if you can hear me… I’m ready to come face to face with the mightiest being besides me.”
Back on William's screen, Linnea can be seen laughing, joking with Jack as he tries explaining as to why he knew her. Jack rubbed the back of his neck, and let out a forced cackle.
“So, Ame-rican! Explain again as to why you might know me and my brother? Hehe!”
“Well…” Jack looked away, and puckered his lips.
Of course she wouldn’t remember entirely, we’re back in the correct flow of time. Jack thought.
Jack scratched his head, and shrugged. Linnea flickered her nose, and made Jack nervous.
“Come on now, tell me, big young man!”
Jack rolled his eyes, “damn well, it’s hard to believe but we met once… in uh, hmm, school?”
Linnea lay back, and crossed her arms. “Oh yeah, what school?”
“Crap… okay we uh met in a—park!”
“Mm, which park? Because I have yet to go to any since this is my second time in the states.”
“Gheg…”
“Haha, you’re a funny young man, aren’t you? American.”
Jack scratched the back of his neck, turning red.
“I-I guess, but not to come off as we—okay you know what, what I’m about to say is weird. But, it’s really good seeing you again, Linnea.”
Linnea brought her arms forward, collapsing her hands and resting them on the table. She didn’t say anything but stared at the young man with those bright blue eyes. He swallowed from her intense still stare, and she abruptly reached for his hand, and grabbed it.
“You know, now that I’m taking a good look at you, you do look familiar. I can’t explain it, but it’s like I’ve dreamt about someone close to you. Yeah, yeah you do.”
Jack used this opportunity to win his explanation.
“Maybe it’s because we both dreamt of each other? Could it be that we were inside your home, sitting close to the fireplace with your brother, enjoying coffee?”
Linnea softly gasped, and held Jack’s hand. She can reimagine what he was saying, and her brain rewinded that same scene. All three were talking, laughing, sharing stories and deepening a bond. Then, it grew serious when Linnea herself questioned the young man about who and what he is. His response lessened her suspicion towards him, and everything came to a close when he said his farewell, and walked out their door to walk off into the night, never to be seen again.
Linnea shook her head, retracted her hand, and stared at her shaking palm.
What was that? Did-did the dream I have actually happened? Could I have just forgotten? No, no, couldn’t be, I’m really good at remembering. Linnea thought.
Jack blew some steam out his nostrils, softly, and watched as Linnea’s brain kept rewinding time. Jack wondered if telling her this will cause something bad, but at this point, whatever the consequence maybe, he’s ready for any consequence that’ll be thrown at him. She closed her eyes, and placed her hand on her head. She can remember another scenario with Oskar introducing him to her for the first time, and explaining his situation. Yet there was one thing she could always distinct from the dreams, that hint of darkness edging out this young man’s soul.
“Could-could you explain how you met my brother?” She said.
Jack grinned. “Yeah, it was when I got separated from my—group. I roamed around the town, happened to bump into him when I was trying to buy something to eat. He explained that he was a tourist guide but also the laughing stock of the town. Or was that you who said he was.”
She can feel a zap in her brain, giving her another foggy reenactment. She can feel her body tense up, and it made her mind tremble. Amongst the upcoming migraine, she can remember the three inside a church, and afterwards, when she went to go look for the two, she bumped into… her.
“Aby…zou.” she murmured.
“You-You alright?” Jack asked, reaching for her and once he made contact with her, it flashed Abyzou threatening her life, ridiculing, bullying a different, weaker Linnea.
“I don’t… recall ever being—!”
“Linnea, are you sure you’re—?”
“Let go!” she shouted, garnering the attention of the establishment.
Everyone turned around, stopped what they were doing, and saw Jack clinging onto her forearm. Jack gently let go, and groaned. Linnea panted, and grabbed her head, and felt nauseous. An employee of the establishment approached the table, and gave Jack a dirty look.
“Everything alright? He said. “Would you like me to call the pol—”
“That won’t be necessary, you fine person you.” Linnea said, letting off her grasp and giving the employee a trust worthing smile.
“Are-Are you sure?”
She waved her hand, “yeah yeah, I’m sorry for my rowdy nature. It's just, I’m on, you know what?”
He raised both brows, and backed away, chuckling. “Oh alright, enjoy the rest of your coffee.”
“I’m sorry about that, Jack. I was just having a wild ride in my crazy head.”
Jack didn’t say anything.
I wonder if me touching her flashed more than just what we spoke about. Jack thought.
Linnea got up, and grabbed both of their mugs. “I’ll take this up and put them away, why don’t you wait for me outside.”
Jack got up, and quietly walked away, and out the front door. Linnea put the dishes in the proper disposable box, but before leaving, one of the employees reminded her to pay.
She blinked rapidly and was speechless. “For both?”
The employee nodded. She furrowed her brows, squinted her eyes, and smacked her teeth.
“He tricked me into paying for us, why that no good American.” she muttered.
***
Resting on the couch, watching the news, Leon was observing and hearing what the military were up to after the attack of a known Witch cultist. A military general and a reporter were talking, thinking of how this is possible when it’s straight out of a fairytale, and comic book. The general shook his head, and aimed his finger at the devastation. The reporter waited on what he’ll say next.
The general dropped his arm, and crushed his fist. “Whatever he or it was, it won’t happen again.”
The reporter nodded, “and just how will you guys retort to such a monster?”
“From now on, anything supernatural, or close to what that person was will be a kill on sight. No discussions, and no hesitations.”
“Kill on sight?” Leon said, “and just how will you guys combat that?”
Another military man came up, and his outfit reminded Leon of an old school one from the Vietnam Era. He wore some lieutenant badges, and the hat he had on was remnant of that Era too. The general was confused as to who this gentleman was, and the reporter too. Leon leaned forward, and sensed something off from that new man.
“Wh-Who might you be, soldier?” the general asked.
“Me? Oh I’m sorry to intrude in this serious discussion, but I’m here to help.”
“Help, in what way?” the reporter asked, shooting his mic at him.
“Well, I’ll tell you about this, general, but I’m from a new military branch.”
“New what?”
“Yeah! Actually we were created last year.”
The general squinted, “how come I haven’t heard of it nor has the public?”
The man flailed his arms, and chuckled. “It’s top secret! Until now of course, duh?!”
“I don’t like your tone, you sound much too childish and relaxed. And I call bullshit.”
“I’m sorry, I'm sorry. It’s just the type of person that I am. Anyhow, our branch has been created souly to combat this type of abnormality. Actually, right after this interview, I have new military weapons that’ll help combat people like the man with crimson eyes.”
The author's content has been appropriated; report any instances of this story on Amazon.
Leon leaned forward, and knew something fishy was up.
“He’s no normal lieutenant. This guy’s up to no good. I wonder…”
Leon tried looking into the man's eyes, but he kept averting the camera’s lens, almost as if he knew Leon was trying to look into them. That’s enough for Leon to assume that this man is supernatural. They continued discussing this new so-called equipment and just the details of what it can do made Leon smack his lips.
“Son of bitch, it appears we’re dealing with much more than I thought. And it’s all that bitche’s fault…”
Leon’s watching session was interrupted by his wife who happened to walk in with a tray full of accessories to brew coffee, and saw the news too.
“Oh my? What do we have here?”
Leon’s fingers twitched hearing her soft soothing tone.
“What a troublesome turn of events. What happened downtown?”
When Leon heard this, he wanted to burst out in anger, thinking she’s just playing dumb to fool his ears. But he knew a liar when he heard it. Although, with someone like his wife, it’s difficult to tell since she’s a master manipulator. She came to where he was sitting and set the tray in front of the coffee table, and watched.
“Who did that?” she asked.
Leon didn’t want to answer, but to see how far she’s playing this out, he decided to talk along. He rubbed his hands, and kept his eyes on the screen.
“You mean you don’t know?” he said, sounding aggroed.
“Know what?”
“The stupid cult that worships you attacked downtown a couple of days ago, revealing the world of our presence—no thanks to you.”
Samantha sat down, and tilted her head. “What is this cult? John revealed that to me first and it made me cringe. Besides that, why are you putting blame on me when I had nothing to do with this?”
“But you knew something like this was going to happen…”
He began to raise his voice, and grew his tone more strong.
“That’s why you’ve done all that you could to keep this information from reaching my daughter.”
“Your daughter?!” she said, turning her attention to him with an intrigued grin on her face.
“Yeah, I said it. My—daughter!”
Leon got up, and glared at his wife who had a smug grin on her face.
“The one I’m trying to protect from those wretched fools, the one you swore to protect, love, but as of lately, you’ve done nothing but watch and entertain yourself towards that selfish personality of yours!”
Samantha got up, crossed her arms, and approached her husband. Her grin remained, and she stuck her hip out, expressing her sass and curiosity. She wanted to see just how far their relationship has developed.
“I am, I am protecting my gracious life and joy, Leon. And you’re right, I was aware of the storm brewing, waiting to strike at the right moment. And—”
She spread her arms out, and slightly tilted her head, expressing a half open mouth smile.
“Here we are. It’s surprising to know of things coming into fruition when you're a highly omnipotent being like myself.”
Leon had it with his wife. He ground his teeth, and went up to her face. She actually got surprised by this, and the two were having a silent stare down. As Leon’s anger was brewing, looking into her platinum eyes, he couldn't help but be hypnotized by them, and blush. Despite the feeling of lust, and beauty, he fought the emotion and remained seriously angry towards her.
“You’re a horrible person… and to even think you’d treat your daughter this way—a tool for your entertainment while we pawns move around, and react to the moves you like to place for us to play in.”
Samantha didn’t like that. Actually it wiped the smug expression off her beautiful face and a deep wrinkle formed between her precious eyes.
“You dare… call my beloved flesh and blood, a to-tool? You think I like watching, feeling my daughter get scared, hurt! Why I outta—!”
Leon got closer, and almost bumped heads with her, which made her step a foot back.
“Or what? What! You’ll kill me? Free me of my curse! The repulsive contract you forced me into to play in your show?!”
Leon was the one who had his arms spread out.
“Then do it! Please, I beg of you, free me of my nightmare, you vile bitch of a woman.”
Samantha growled and bumped heads with him.
“You selfish, arrogant fool! You’d actually want that wouldn’t you?! And leave my glorious seed of life to be left alone to mourn for her father?!”
“Ha, as if. I would’ve been glad if you killed me right now if I hadn’t already gotten along with her. Right now, there’s nothing more precious to me than her.”
“Oh?! Really, well, we’ll see about that.”
Samantha backed off, and that vile grin came back, and she started to giggle.
“Look at you, such a man…”
Leon clenched his fists.
“That’s why I chose you to be my husband, the man right to be the father figure for my precious daughter.”
Leon grew tired of her sarcastic nature, and went up to her again. She kept giggling and even patted his chest, treating him like a dog who’s obeying his master.
“Stop laughing, and why are you taking this situation lightly?!” he said in a deep, fierce tone.
She let out one more giggle before growing her twisted smile. She flung her hair, and crossed her arms again, showing calmness and not giving a toot.
“But I’m not, you see, I know everything's going to be alright.”
“How so? Explain, woman.”
Because of you, silly!”
“Shut up…”
“So long as she has her loving caring father by her side, then there’s nothing to—”
Suddenly, Leon stomped one foot forward, and grabbed her arm, which made her eyes explode.
“Listen here you fucking bitch—!”
“Unhand me! You self—”
Leon reeled her in, and got in her face, and she gasped, and was in shock.
“I’m not going to have you treat this like it's some stupid game! Your daughter was attacked by one of those cultists last night!”
Her eyes quivered when she heard that, and she started to shake, but not from that, but from Leon’s disturbing face and blood thirsty eyes that aimed at hers.
“I’m sick and tired of it! And if you’re not going to protect her from them, but more importantly, from that monster Archard—”
She gasped again, and her knees felt weak upon hearing his name.
“Then I’ll gladly be her guardian angel. Because if there’s anything that I don’t want no more in this world ....”
Leon edged in her face, and growled.
“.... is to have another you roaming this world.”
Samantha frowned, and she fought against his grip.
“Leon, please…” she softly said, trying to tug away from his death grip.
He shook her arm, and didn’t allow her to move another inch. She yelped, and that snapped him out of his mild anger.
“Leon… you’re hurting me…” she said in a soft innocent tone.
Leon gently let go, appearing to be in regret for doing that to her. He remained quiet as she massaged her tiny forearm that had his hand mark wrapped around it. She looked away, and Leon for a second thought he heard a whimper, and when he wanted to ask, she quickly walked away. She disappeared towards the steps as she made her way to her room. Leon was alone in the living room, and brought his palm to his face, staring at its scars. He closed it, and held it, and collapsed to his knees, shutting his eyes.
“Why…” he murmured. “Why am I—feeling guilty? I can’t still—”
Leon opened his eyes, and dragged the edge of his thumb and index finger across his eyes. He let out a huge sigh, and shook his head.
“No matter how much I loathe the woman, my mother taught me better than to put hands on one.”
He stood back up, and placed his hands on his hips, glancing around the silent room. Again, he mildly shook his head, let out a chuckle, and went to sit back down on the couch.
“Whatever… Sarah’s in better hands with me anyways.”
As his eyes locked onto the screen, that strange lieutenant man was displaying one of the military vehicles, and it shot out a huge stream of plasma. It made him gasp, and jump out of his seat.
“No way!”
Everyone applauded except for the general who remained suspicious of this unknown soldier. Another military vehicle pulled up, this time a tank with what seemed to be a huge satellite type of contraption in place of where a cannon would be. It charged up, and shot out a huge stream of electric pulsion's. Leon furrowed his brows, and looked to the side.
“This is abnormal… who in God’s name is this man.”
The lieutenant was laughing, cracking jokes, sharing handshakes with politicians, and tried with the general but he was hesitant before doing so. He eventually did but walked away afterwards without saying another word. The stranger brought his gaze directly to the camera, staring right into it, and Leon was starting to recognize who it might be.
“Is that… who I think it is?” he said while approaching the television.
He got some memory flashes of an old clansman, one who hated him and wished nothing but surpassing his natural strength. As his attention was caught by the screen, he heard the door open, which broke him from his stare down, and turned to the door. There, he saw his wife in a disguise, making her way out.
“Hey!” Leon shouted as he ran to the door before she could walk out.
She was halfway out, and Leon quickly jumped in front of her. She had some glasses on, a black sundress, and sun hat on. She didn’t say anything, but Leon could see her eyes, and he could detect sadness in them.
“Where are you going?” he asked, his heart racing.
She looked away, “where else? I’m going to go look for my daughter.”
Leon shook his head, “no, I’ll be the one to go look for her.”
She shook her head too, “Leon, I’m not going to argue with you—”
“I know, because you’re not. What’s said, is said. But for now, go somewhere else where your presence shouldn’t be needed around our precious girl.”
Samantha at first was going to rebuttal to his statement, but a single word caught her off guard, which made her tilt her head, and left her jaw dropping.
“Our…?” she whispered.
“I hate you, I despise you… but what I did was completely uncalled for and goes against my mothers promise.”
Samantha’s eyes quivered behind her glasses, and for once since before marrying him, her heart skipped a few beats.
“I shouldn’t have put my hands on you, Samantha.” Leon said with a straight face.
Samantha didn’t say a word but leaned against the door frame with her head down.
“If I want to enact my vengeance against you, I’ll just do it with Mana instead of my blood thirsty hands.”
Samantha giggled beneath her breath, and brought her gaze back up to him.
“Okay, tough guy.” she said, and in hearing that sweet soft voice of hers also made Leon’s heart skip a few beats.
It’s been awhile since he’s heard her speak in such a tone since their day of marriage. But he kept it cool, and remained chill, and composed.
Samantha showed Leon a subtle smile, and turned forward to the street view.
“I’ll be back in two days. In the meantime, make sure my daughter comes back unscathed, honey.”
Leon smacked his lips, and turned away, clenching his fists.
“You forgot who put a ring on that wretched finger of yours.”
Samantha giggled, and massaged her ring finger where it once had one.
“You’re right… chow.”
She vanished and Leon closed the door behind him. For a moment, he thought about why he still acts normal and soft towards her in situations like this. He wondered if there’s still a dash of love still left in his still heart for her. Whatever it is that’s allowing him to act this mildly kind towards her, especially when she expresses that type of weakness, Leon wants it tarnished. That way, his guard won’t be completely dropped and allow her to do as she pleases. He walked forward, and made his way on the sidewalk, closing the metal gate behind him. He tucked his hands into his pockets, and with a frown on his face, he went on his way to find Sarah.
“I can’t use mana, I refuse to, but at least I can sense it. Sarah, don’t do anything to get yourself exposed, whatever God exists forbids if you do, I pray that I’ll be there before you have to.”
***
Back where Linnea and Jack were at, the two were walking side by side, conversing and she’s still trying to figure out how he’s able to know her despite some odd flashes of images she's dreamt of. Although, she’s having a nice laugh and conversation with the young man. They were in the town where Angela loved going into, they were in the mood for some local bakery food.
Linnea hopped in front of Jack as they continued walking. “Say, American, could you enlighten me as to how you know about the existence of supernatural beings?! I’m very interested, you see.”
Jack shrugged, “it’s a bit complicated. But to make a long story short, it all came down with a specific girl in a white dress.”
“Girl in a white dress? Hm, what type of dress?”
“An elegant romantic dress, one of gothic culture.”
“Oh! I like this image you’re describing to me. More please, come on!”
Jack felt delighted, but he knew he couldn't say her name without consequence.
“She has long, thick raven hair, amethyst eyes and chalky skin. When it comes to her looks, I don’t think there’s any rival, well, maybe except for two that I know right now and one I rarely see.”
“Ah! She sounds magnificent, yet eerie. Looks can be deceiving. And who are these three other women you speak of?”
Linnea hopped back to the side of him, and Jack was about to say one of the names until his phone rang. He picked it up, and answered.
“Hello?”
It was Sarah who was sitting down at a local bakery with the other two.
“Jack, you’re fully awake I see.”
“Oh yeah, after Veronica called me, I just slept for another hour and woke back up. What’s up though?”
Linnea eased in, listening in on Jack's conversation.
“Nothing, just wanted to make sure there wasn’t anything strange going on. What are you doing right now?” Sarah said.
“Me? Oh, I’m in town, and I happened to bump into an old friend, we’re making our way to Joe’s.”
“Really? Who they might be?”
“Her name’s Linnea, an old classmate of mine.”
Sarah brought her phone down, and looked at Veronica for a moment. Veronica wondered why Sarah was staring at her for a second.
“What? Why are you looking at me with a smug look, goth girl?!”
Sarah slightly raised her shoulders, and looked away with her phone back against her ear.
“Veronica isn’t going to like that my friend.”
Jack chuckled. “Eh… anyways, what are you up to, Sarah?”
Just then, Linnea’s eyes grew big, and she gasped once she heard her name.
He’s friends with—?! Linnea thought.
She quickly erased her shocked expression and her face went still.
“Alright, tell me this right. Earlier I was walking with the other two bimbos, and then this strange woman hopped in front of me, she was really aggressive towards me too, anyhow, to quickly summarize my interaction, Jack…”
“Yeah, go on.”
“I think she might be another supernatural being.”
Jack proceeded to walk forward, ignoring Linnea but she quickly followed him without saying a word.
“Hm, what brought you to that conclusion?”
Sarah lay back, and sipped on some coffee. “Easy, she was giving off this weird sensation. Kinda like the times you felt someone’s presence for the first time.”
“True, when I was given that from a certain someone, I always felt a strange feeling from people. Even you gave off that weird feeling.”
“Right, anyways, what I’m saying is keep a lookout. She might still be around the town, and I’m sure you’ll be able to sense her once you get close enough.”
Jack nodded. “Gotchu… wait, I think I am sensing something already.”
Sarah stood up, and she too felt something off. She hurried out of the area, and made her way into the sidewalk. She looked around, and couldn’t figure out where it was coming from, but it was mana.
“Jack, you think you can meet us at the ice cream shop.”
Jack was looking around as well, and so was Linnea who definitely knew what was going on.
“I’m actually close, I’ll be there in a couple of minutes.”
“Okay, see you in a few.”
Sarah hung up, and the other two caught up with her. Anna picked her up off her feet, and Veronica flung her forehead.
“Jesus Sarah! I look away for two seconds and you’re gone like the wind!” Anna said.
Veronica pointed at her as she massaged her forehead.
“Missy! You’ve been acting real strange since our encounter with Mandy. What’s with you!”
Sarah stopped rubbing, and tapped Anna’s boob. She gave Anna puppy dog eyes and Anna knew she wanted to be put down. Sarah patted herself, and gave Veronica a nice backhand chop to her chest.
“Ah! Oh my god! That hurt you little demon!”
Sarah grinned. “Jack’s on the way, you envious devil you.”
“Wh-Wh-wha…t?” Veronica turned red, and hid her face. “No, not now! I don’t look my best!”
Anna laughed and shoved Veronica. “Oh yeah, let's see who he says hi to first, muhahaha!”
Meanwhile, Jack and Linnea were just two blocks from where they were at. Linnea continued scanning the area as they made their way to Jack’s friends. Jack also did the same, and put his hand where his gun was at. As the two silently made it down another block, Jack thought of something. He pulled his phone out, and called Sarah again. She answered.
“What’s up?”
“You think you can start walking to us, Sarah.”
“Sure, I think I can pick up your black mass.”
“Oh, I’m that noticeable?”
“Yeah you are. But I’m going now.”
She hung up, and walked forward, and Anna and Verónica both followed, wondering why she’s suddenly walking when they were waiting for Jack. Just then, Sarah can see him and this so-called friend. She raised her hand at them, and Jack replied with his own hand raised. Linnea could see the three girls walking towards them, and once her eyes met Sarah’s, she almost lost it and blew her cover. Sarah quickly picked up on another strange surge of mana until it faded out quicker than it came.
“We gotta get out of this town.” she muttered.
Linnea watched as the enigma of her nightmares was coming her way. Those crimson eyes, her raven hair and skin, she wanted nothing more than to lash out and attack her. And what Mandy said of her sensing Abyzou’s presence in her was indeed factual. Yet, despite all the characteristics of their identity being almost one hundred percent, there were some minor differences. These differences were her height, the way her bangs are formed, and bust size. This eased Linnea enough not to assume this was Abyzou in disguise but the daughter who’s life was supposedly taken away for a day from a known Exorcist.
Veronica saw the stunning blonde beauty next to Jack, and a wrinkle formed between her eyes.
“Who in the hell… is that?!”
Even Anna was surprised and wrapped her arm around Veronica’s stiffing shoulder.
“If it’s what I think it looks like, then I’m sorry to say, but she has you beat my friend.”
“No no, no fucking way!”
“Veronica, chill…”
Veronica pushed Anna off and marched towards them. Jack saw her stomping her way towards him, and he paused, putting his arms out. Linnea kept her eyes on Sarah, and she could feel Linnea’s gaze on her.
Jack eased his hands to an approaching Sassy bookworm. “Veronica… you don’t look too—”
She got on her toes, and tapped his forehead. “Just who in the holy hecklebit is this?! I haven’t seen you for awhile… and to think you’ve been spending your time not only with Sarah—but with—her?!”
“Veronica, relax. I’m sorry, but a lot has happened since. And this is just an old classmate of mine and we’ve barely reunited today.”
“Classmate, class-mate?!”
Veronica placed her fists on her hips, “if I remember correctly, you dropped out of school after your parents were murdered. So how could she be a classmate when you haven’t been to school since you were ten years old?!”
Jack deeply sighed. “You-you’re right…”
The other two girls caught up to them, and Anna got in between.
“Hey, relax will ya, Veronica. Stop being so jealous, I’m sure it’s not what it looks like.”
Veronica crossed her arms, and deepened the wrinkle between her eyes.
“Hmph, so far it is. Since I caught him lying.”
Anna looked over her shoulder to Jack. “That true?”
Jack didn’t respond, and didn’t know how to. She was right, he was lying, but for good reason. These were the last two people on this planet he didn’t want the supernatural to be shown, discovered to. Linnea finally intervened, and grabbed Veronica’s arm, pulling her to the side.
“Hey! Watch who you’re—!”
“Listen, American girl. I’m just a friend of his. Besides, I’m much too old to be a lover for him. No need to act so defensive over your stupid puppy love.”
Veronica felt embarrassed and sulked. Anna grabbed her, and gently pushed Veronica away.
“Uh, I think it’s best I take her home. You're gonna stay, Sarah?”
“Yeah, we got to do something anyway.” Sarah replied.
Anna waved, “alrighty then. Come on smart girl, let's take your smart ass home.”
Anna wrapped her arms around Veronica and the two walked off, leaving the three. Sarah quickly sighed, and scratched the back of her head.
“I’m sorry if my friend behaved like that. She can’t help it as you can see.”
Even her voice is like hers… but more, timid, softer, but not as gentle. Linnea thought.
“No need. I understand where she’s coming from. Although, I have yet to fall in love myself so I can’t fully understand such foolish emotion.”
“Hehe, same. Hey, Jack, your new friend here is kinda cool.”
“After her saying just that you already think she’s cool? Dang Sarah.”
“What? I like her accent and strong tone. And her outfit’s cool too.”
Linnea expressed half a grin to hide her suspicion towards Sarah.
“Okay okay, introductions. I’ll go first, my name’s Linnea Austad.”
“Sarah’s my name, nice to meet you.”
Sarah put her hand forward, and Linnea’s heart began to race. She’s seen this same sequence play out. The very first time she met Abyzou she did the exact same thing, but with a big smile that can fool anyone into thinking she was a sweet young woman. Linnea swallowed and carefully shook her hand, and that triggered something in Sarah’s mind. Sarah backed away, grabbed her hand, and she felt her eyes pulsing, and becoming hazed.
“Sarah, you alright?!” Jack said, quickly going, and grabbing her.
Sarah gasped for air, and Jack held her. Sarah can see flames, blood, she could hear herself laughing, dancing in the fire, and after distinguishing the flames, she could see the exact same face she just shook hands with and stared at her in despair. Linnea watched as Sarah’s arms began to shake uncontrollably. Sarah can see another flash, one in which she whispered into the girl's ear, and told her why she was justified in killing her brother. Sarah grabbed her head, and coughed out blood. This worried Jack, and he looked at Linnea with a glare.
“What did you do to her?!”
Linnea quickly went up to her, and grabbed Sarah’s hands. “Easy now, easy. Just relax, and think clearly.”
The more Linnea grabbed her, the more it triggered unknown memories to Sarah. Sarah let tears flow out her eyes, and a surge of mana started to erupt around her.
“No Sarah! Stop, don’t!” Jack reeled Sarah, and embraced her.
Linnea felt bad and had no idea she would react to her touching her like that. She then felt the presence of something approaching them, quickly.
She grabbed Jack’s arm. “We have to go, now!”
“What are you talking about?!”
Sarah can hear Jack’s worried voice, and it snapped her back into reality. She inhaled a huge breath of air, and got her vision back. She also sensed whatever was coming their way getting closer. She got out of Jack’s embrace, and stood next to Linnea with a small stream of crimson coming out of her mouth.
“Ja-Jack… you got-got to—”
“No, Sarah!”
Jack grabbed Sarah, and she looked up at him.
“I promised your father. You’re under my protection, and I won’t let you use your mana.”
“They’re here…” Linnea said.
The two looked forward, and standing in front of them was a man in a blue robe. He had a huge maniacal grin, and once he bestowed his vision upon Sarah, he cried tears of joy.
“ABYZOU!”
He yelled, shooting his arms out forward, revealing strange markings on his skin.
“Oh no…” Jack said.
Sarah prepared herself, but Jack got in front of her.
“Jack…” she weakly said.
Jack pulled his gun out, and cocked it. “No mana, Sarah.”
Sarah remained on guard, and Linnea reached into coat pocket, pressing something. The blue robed man pulled off his hood, and revealed his bald head, and crazed eyes.
“Well well, to think, me… The upcoming rising star of our clan has found Abyzou. It only took a couple of leads, but I found you. And as the sixth strongest of our clan, I’m sure these two won’t be of any threat since whatever I’m sensing from that young boy is nothing compared to my magnificent powers.”
His gaze went to Linnea, and his wretched smile grew ear to ear.
“Ah, and a normal human. This is going to be a breeze.”
Jack stepped forward, and aimed his gun at him. “Step any closer and I’ll gladly make sure you’ll meet a bullet first before you touch her.”
“Haha! Fool. if it’s a fight that you want… then it’s a fight—”
He brought his hand up to the air, and a ball of light appeared.
“You’ll surely meet last.”
The ball pulsed, altered different colours. It grew bigger, to the size of a medicine ball. It shot up, above the town, expanded into the size of the entire block. This garnered the attention of the entire town. He flicked his finger forward, and the ball came down at Mach speed towards them. Sarah ran in front of Jack as it expanded even more, and created winds from the incoming force. Buildings rippled, cars blown away, people screaming, Jack grabbed Sarah, and shielded her.
“No! I can’t let you, Sarah!”
“Jack!” she shouted.
Linnea suddenly got in front of them, and her eyes glowed blue. The huge ball of mana was close, and Linnea put her palms forward. She used her own stream of light to push the thing away. It shot into the sky, exploding and shook the entire town and blinded the sky into a flash of white. Windows were shattered from the explosion, people screaming, scramming, driving away from the danger. Jack and Sarah were both left in shock, watching as Linnea calmly put down her arms and stared down the man. He too was surprised but seeing what she did made him smile much more.
“So, you’re no ordinary human Afterall. How—troublesome.” the robed man said.
Linnea also pulled out a gun, and cocked it. As the light died down, everyone could see the damage that was done just from the incoming force and the explosion in the air. It was pure destruction.
“I can do more than just use mana, Witch! Care to try me?!” Linnea shouted as she raised the gun while her eyes glowed brighter.
Jack couldn’t believe his eyes, and was speechless.
Linnea… Linnea’s a—? Jack thought.
Sarah’s eyes shook as she watched Linnea take aim at the man, putting her palm out while keeping her gun aimed up.
“She’s… an Esper?” Sarah murmured.