After a good wash, Ione eventually made it to the bedroom only to find Fellis sitting up in her bed. Waiting for her.
Shit.
Fellis gasped and exclaimed “Ione!” before she bounded off the bed and ran to her.
“Shhhhh, you have to keep your voice down,” Ione whispered before she felt Fellis’ arms go around her waist. Then she heard sniffles.
“Fellis?”
“...was gonna hurt you..” The little girl mumbled into her shirt.
“Huh?”
“Kine was gonna hurt you... and you saved me,” Fellis looked up at Ione with furrowed brows, gold eyes glistening, “did you know Kine was going to hurt me?”
Shiiiiiit.
Ione quickly brought Fellis back to bed, arranging them similarly to how she and Coranne were just an hour ago.
“Fellis, what did you see?”
“I… couldn't sleep so I was thinking of asking you to switch back, I was looking at you and then Kine walked in…I- I saw what happened, he held a knife. He was going to stab you! Then, you woke up, grabbed him and ran out. A-are you okay?”
“I'm okay, and yes…Kine… was going to hurt me.” She paused. She wanted to tell Fellis what happened, but her brain was mush and she needed sleep. The night was eventful, to say the least. “Listen, I'll explain everything tomorrow. I'm just really tired right now and I can't properly think straight after what happened. But you do deserve an explanation.”
“...Okay.” Fellis said in a small voice.
No. Ione couldn't leave it at that. “What's wrong?”
Tears spilt down her cheeks, “Ione, I was so scared! I thought he would hurt you but you're fine, but I still feel scared!...and…and I didn't help you.” Her voice trailed off in the end as she clenched her small fists to her chest.
“Fellis, look,” Ione spread her arms out, “I'm okay! He didn't hurt me. And he won't try again, I've made sure of it. You never have to worry about that. And you helped me immensely! Why do you think you didn't?”
“Because I could have distracted him, or…or I could have covered him in a blanket. Or maybe ask that he doesn't hurt you! But I just laid there, and did nothing!”
Fellis was so innocent that it physically hurt. Ione felt her heart constrict.
“You helped me by switching beds. That was the best thing you could have done and you did it. Do you trust me?” Ione asked.
Fellis nodded, not unlike a bobble head.
“I’m honored to have that trust, and I trust you too.”
Fellis gasped, “You trust me?”
She nodded. "Of course I do. You’ve been an immense help. We look out for each other, okay?” She paused, "Can I ask you for a favor?”
“Yes!” the red haired girl sat up straight and her eyes widened in curiosity.
“Please don’t tell anyone what you saw.”
“Oh. I already know not to do that.” Fellis said, dismissively
“Because it could ge-wait what?.” Ione gave a double take, “why?”
“I don’t want you to be taken away. I know you did something bad to Kine, but he deserved it. I know it.”
It was surprising how much Fellis understood what was going on. Ione forgot how smart kids could be.
She laid a white hand on Fellis’ brown ones, “He did and I do really want to stay here, Fellis.”
Not just for Fellis, or Coranne, but for herself. For the most part, Ione was accepted here, and while she knew Belan would try to do something about that, she wanted to protect this part of her life with everything she had.
“I want you to stay here too!” She tightly clung to Ione's right arm, “I don’t want you to ever leave. You’re my big sister,” She pouted.
“Even though we’re the same age?” Ione teased, bumping her shoulder.
“You’re definitely older than me. Don’t know why you’re in our group, but I’m glad.” she mumbled.
Fellis would be wrong in any other scenario; Ione and her were the same age, in body that is, it was just that Fellis could pick up that Ione wasn't normal mentally, but she seemingly didn't care. The young girl accepted all of her weirdness with no question, her love for her ‘sister’ blinded her to the anomaly Ione really was.
“I’m glad too,” Ione leaned her head on Fellis’ crown, “there’s probably going to be a search for Kine tomorrow, you’re not going to tell anyone?”
“I won’t tell anyone what I saw. Ever.” She said with conviction, “but, what did you do?” Fellis brought her head out from under hers and looked into her eyes. Gold met gray.
“I did something terrible. Horrible.”
As if searching, Fellis’ eyes flickered back and forth. Ione held her gaze, and eventually Fellis nodded, then gave her one last hug.
“He deserved whatever he got.”
“Maybe.” She said absently. It was strange how both Fellis and Coranne were largely accepting of her actions towards Kine. Was it because they trusted her completely? It was a heady feeling, to have that sort of loyalty. Freely given, and all encompassing.
Ione’s thoughts moved to their relationship. Fellis was the most extroverted of the girls, boisterous and exuberant. She had an aura that drew people in, and made herself the center that other people revolved around. Moreover, she extended that happiness to others, a smile so infectious and cheerful that people couldn't help but feel the joy she emanated. It was rare to see that sort of warmth.
She had always made it a point to include Ione into things, even if she declined, unarguably the most introverted of the group. The idea that Fellis had seen a big sister in her, even though it was Fellis who put the most work into the relationship, was a testament to how deeply she valued Ione’s input. She occasionally asked advice here and there, and Ione was always ready to give it. With no judgment and open acceptance.
Ione wondered why Fellis latched onto her. There was something in her gaze that divulged a deeper understanding of who Ione was, and while the red headed girl didn’t outright say it, Ione felt like Fellis was almost hinting at something. She couldn't tell what.
It seemed Ione had thought enough to conclude why Fellis saw a sibling in her. The question soon became, did Ione see a sibling in Fellis? She didn't think she would get close to any of the girls here, she couldn't really see herself being friends with them; the girls tolerated her, but weren't actively enthused about her presence, and the feeling was mutual. With Fellis, though, Ione enjoyed her company. The outgoing girl was incredibly kind, thoughtful, and completely unlike Ione.
Yea, I could be a big sister. I’ll be the best one.
Soon enough the girls went their separate ways and returned to their own respective beds. Ione got comfortable under her covers and then turned to face the wall, closing her eyes, yet she couldn't fall asleep.
Those fucking spiders.
“Can you guys, just like, not stare at me for a few nights?”
They didn't stop. She opened her eyes only to sit up in alarm. Instead of the regular three, there were hundreds, arranged on the wall to make a picture.
Her face. Staring back at her.
“What the fuck?”
They quickly scattered, making their way under her bed as the original ones made it back to their homes in the corner. Ione slowly laid back down and stared at the ceiling.
What the fuck.
~~~~~
Ensure your favorite authors get the support they deserve. Read this novel on the original website.
Ione was deeply unsettled when she woke up. Those spiders.
What the hell was that?
Her thinking was interrupted when Coranne entered the room; she gently woke each girl and when she came to Ione she was especially tender.
“You doing okay there, Ione?” Coranne eyes crinkled at the sides.
The white haired girl nodded, and Coranne returned the movement before proceeding to the next girl. Eventually everyone was awake and Coranne made an announcement.
“Okay everyone. I have something to tell you all. Unfortunately one of the boys, Kine, was found missing from his bed this morning.”
A chorus of hushed whispers filled the room. Ione and Fellis shared a glance.
“We’re going to search for him before breakfast, so everybody get ready and then we’ll organize you all into groups; each will be headed by a nun. You have about 20 minutes, then come to the refectory.” With that, Coranne turned around and left, leaving the girls to do their morning routine.
Ione was nervous. While she did think she got away scot-free, there was always a chance that something could go wrong. Maybe another girl saw something. Or overheard the conversation. Yet, she didn't get any weird or lingering looks.
Soon enough, everyone was at the cafeteria. Children of all ages attended and with a small speech from Belan, which Ione ignored, everyone was separated into groups.
Of course, Coranne put Ione into her own group, along with Fellis.
The search was surprisingly boring. With a few nudges from Ione, Coranne completely avoided the area Kine was in, eventually making their way back to the orphanage and to Belan. Coranne told the rest of the kids to go eat breakfast, but left Ione with her, finding comfort in her presence.
“Anything?” Belan croaked.
Coranne shook her head, “no, Mother Belan, Kine hasn't been found yet. I’m sorry”
“Any tracks?”
“No, Mother Belan.”
Ione was happy at the turn of events. Coranne was willing to lie to Belan. They did, in fact, find the rock that Kine so graciously bled all over, on account that one of the kids in the group stumbled upon it, but Coranne made an excuse and Fellis caused a distraction that quickly diverted their attention. Ione was impressed by the little girl.
“Alright. You may go, but bring the elf to my office later. I have a few questions for her.”
Oh, come the fuck on.
“Yes, Mother Belan.”
Coranne took her hand, her palm sweaty and Ione activated [Predator sense], hearing her heart racing. She didn't like lying, it was clear to Ione, but she did it anyway. For her.
A nervous smile graced the woman's face as she looked at Ione, and Ione gave her a nod and quick hand squeeze, Coranne’s lips thinned, but she nodded in response.
Breakfast was good this morning, despite the looming threat of being alone with Belan. Ione hoped her new skills were up for the task.
~~~~~
The dreaded moment came when, during lunch, Coranne fetched Ione to go see Belan.
As they were walking, Coranne had some choice words, whispering “that cranky old bitch, I tried to talk her out of it but she just kept insisting she had to talk to you. You covered your tracks right?”
“I was fairly certain I did, except for that rock. Thanks for covering for me by the way.”
“Of course,” she said.
Ione continued, “But, yea, I don't think I missed anything else. You took the clothes I left?”
Coranne nodded. Yes.
“That was the last thing I could think of. She might be trying to psych me out. Make me admit to something. With all the deaths around here they need someone to blame, so Belan might be trying to put it on me so that it doesn't look bad on her.”
“That seems plausible, but you’re a child.”
“Yes, but I'm also an elf. It fits her worldview.”
“Ah. Yes, of course.” Coranne said, her face sour.
It was silent for a few moments until they eventually reached the dreaded door. Coranne mouthed, ‘good luck,’ before leaving.
Ione knocked.
Belan answered, her shrewd pale blue eyes stood out in her tanned weathered face, staring at Ione as she ushered her in to sit in the oversized chair across from the desk. Belan sat down, the chair creaked under the weight.
Ione activated all of her skills, thankful that she had [Deception].
“Ione, do you know why I’ve brought you here today?”
“No.”
“Hm?”
Ione wanted to roll her eyes, “No, Mother Belan.”
The old woman leaned back in her chair, a sly smile graced her face as she said, “Do you want to guess?”
Ione decided to put on the dumbest performance of her life.
“Guess what? Are we gonna play a game?”
Belan frowned, “to guess why you're here”, she said flatly.
“Oh! Umm, is it because school starts soon? Sister Coranne told me that I'll have my own desk! Isn't that amazing! I'm so excited, I want to learn about classes so bad and skills and-” before Ione could keep going, Belan interrupted her.
“Good Gostra child, quit your yapping!”
Ione shut up.
“Gostra, give me strength,” Belan muttered while looking up at the ceiling.
“I'm here to speak with you about Kine.” She leveled a stare at the young girl.
“Kine? Did you find him?” Ione asked eagerly.
“No, and that's why I want to talk with you. It was told to me that yesterday at approximately 1:47 you were seen going into the forest and Kine followed after you. Then, at around 2:54, Kine exited the forest with bruising and dirt on his body.”
Ione gasped, “that's horrible!”
Belans’ lips thinned and her eyes glanced to the corner of the office.
Ione felt a chill spread through her limbs, a small suspicion crept into her mind, [Spatial Awareness] was on, but it didn't pick up anybody but Belan.
“Yes, it is, would you happen to know anything about that?”
The little girl made a show of thinking, then said, “well I went into the forest to explore, but I didn't see Kine. I know earlier in the day Coranne wanted me to be friends with Kine, but he didn't like me!” Ione pouted, “so I decided to not like him back!” She crossed her arms and slumped back in her seat.
Belan wrote something on a piece of parchment, and muttered, “I'm going to have to follow up with that.” Then, she addressed Ione, “what was your conversation?”
“Welllll,” Ione drew out the word, “he said he didn't like it here, and that you were a ‘mean, old bitch,’” she paused, “what does ‘bitch’ mean?”
DING! Deception Tier 1 LVL 3-> Deception Tier 1 LVL 7
Belan was not amused, “Ione we don't use that language here.”
“But why? I didn't say it, Kine did!”
“I don't care who said it, it is not appropriate.”
“How?”
Talking through gritted teeth, Belan responded, “it's a bad word, now stop asking me.”
“Okay. I’m sorry.” Ione looked contrite.
Belan nodded, “why would he tell you that?”
“I don't know,” Ione mumbled.
“You don't?”
The young girl shook her head.
Belan hummed. Her eyes were narrowed and it seemed as though she didn't believe Ione, which was fair, she was lying after all. Although Ione wasn't worried about Belan, she was worried about whoever the hell was lurking in the corner. Every so often Belan's eyes would shift to look over her shoulder, and her expression would change minutely.
Ione felt her heart race, she was excited.
It happened again and this time Ione didn't stay quiet, “is there someone behind me?” She turned to look around and saw very briefly, the shadow of a person tucked into the corner, and then they vanished.
Ione gasped, “who was that?”
Belans voice was sharp, “there's no one, Ione.”
“But I saw someone! A shadow person! Oh, can I be friends with them? Pleaaaase?”
Ione vacated the chair and went to the corner at Belan’s protest, the shadow reappeared and before Ione could touch them, they left, leaving a wisp of darkness in their wake as they frantically exited the room. The door opened and slammed shut.
“Awww,” Ione started, pouting, “I guess they didn't want to be friends.”
“You…” Belan hissed, “are an insolent little girl!” She stood up on frail legs and pointed her finger at Ione, “sit down in that chair. Now!”
The girl did as she was told. It was in her best interest to listen, so she sat and had the decency to look afraid.
“You should be glad that I'm not taking you over my knee. But I'm too old to do so now. Listen, when you are told to listen, understand?”
Yea, in your dreams, lady.
Nonetheless, Ione responded, “I understand.”
“Good,” Belan sighed and mumbled, “how am I supposed to do this now.” The look she gave Ione could have melted ice. In a booming voice she said, “you may go. Now.”
Ione got up and speedily vacated the room. The smell of slightly fresher air was calming as opposed to the heavy moth ball laden atmosphere.
Now though, Ione had other worries. There was a fucking invisible person lurking around and she knew, without a doubt, that Belan had set them on her. She couldn't do or say shit while knowing there was someone watching her, and she had to let Coranne and Fellis know before they said something that incriminated her. Ione was incredibly thankful for [Prey Sense]. At least she had some sort of defense against them.
She sighed. Seems like she'll have some house cleaning to do.