The Osprey was touching down on the roof of the complex. The wind blew harshly against Eleazar’s silver hair. His robes blowing in a mess. Despite the gusts, he stood firm. His smile was wide, looking upon his students. David stepped off the ramp, bowing to his master. “Good job, boy.” He said gladly, David was surprised to see him in a joyful mood. It was never good when the council requested the presence of the entire group. Eleazar’s face shifted to sternness. “You should’ve informed me before however, you can’t expect me to cover for you when you don’t tell me anything.”
“I apologize Master. It was sort of last minute.” David said straightening back from his bow. Everyone else began to disembark.
“It’s fine.” He muttered, “Those diplomats have no idea what’s going on out here. They sit inside and debate politics. If it were up to me, we’d be snuffing these so-called Brotherhoods out.”
“Perhaps it’s a little more complicated than that,” David said as Gabe walked up next to him.
“How complicated could it be?” Gabe said bowing to his master and then recovering.
“David is right, the Order isn’t as powerful as it used to be, nor does it have the strength it likes to think it has.” Eleazar looked past them. Eve was the last one off the ship. Everyone had forgotten her, that she needed help taking off the harness. “Evelyn Taylor. I apologize for not having the ability to greet you. We have much to discuss.” His shoulders were broad as he walked up to her. David and Gabe stepped to their sides opening a path for their master to walk through. Eleazar offered his hand out to her, Eve was confused, who was this man? And why did he wear robes and armor as if he were some type of medieval lord? She thought to herself. Gabe chuckled under his breath. David looked at him, eyebrows cocked. Eve took his hand; however, he did not shake as if others would. He just grabbed it.
“Hey, mister- “Eve questioned his name.
“Eleazar,” He said smiling through his scruffy goatee. “Eleazar Montague.” Jesus, he even had a knight's last name she thought to herself. “For now, go shower, all of you. The council can wait, I will not have you look like you just climbed out of hell at a hearing.” Eve watched as everyone bowed around her towards Eleazar, she went to lower her back as well before being stopped by him. “Not yet.”
Eve’s face turned red as everyone recovered. David walked over to the group, speaking up in his stern voice. “Alright, No more than twenty minutes, shower and change. Grab a snack too.” David said out to them. Everyone acknowledged him as Virgil shut the ramp to the Silver Arrow.
Gabe walked up to David, “This can’t go well.” Gabe said. David just nodded his head in agreement. David headed to the side of the building remembering he left his window open. “David, I want to apologize,” Gabe said catching up to him.
David smiled at him from the corner of his cheek. “You already have by finding Eve.” Gabe nodded.
“Not just that, I’ve been impatient with you.” Gabe said, “I need to trust your judgment more. You have never let me down.”
“Gabe, you’re wiser than you think, you just need to think more,” David said standing on the ledge. “We’ll talk about this more later, but you need to hurry and go shower. Red and brown isn’t your color.” David said grabbing onto the wall and dropping down to grab on the window ceil below. Gabe looked at his arms, noticing they were covered in blood and dirt. His tank top is even more so. Gabe thought to himself, maybe his brother was right. David jumped inside his room, throwing off his chest rig and clothes into the corner to be washed later.
Eve stood there her arm in her hand. “What about me?” she asked.
“David’s your leader, do what he says,” Eleazar suggested to her.
“David isn’t my leader.” She fired back, slightly offended.
“He will be that is depending on this hearing.” Eleazar began to walk towards the stairs. Eve thought to herself. She had just met David not even a week ago, thinking he was some annoying kid. Now she is going to have to see him as a superior. Life was never simple. That is if she chose to become one of them.
“You going to take the stairs or what?” Allison called out to her. Eve just smiled and ran over to the elevator before it closed. She tried to catch her breath.
“You look like you’ve had a rough day,” Richard said looking down at her. Eve looked up at the group. All covered in dirt and dried-up blood.
“You’re telling me,” Eve said chuckling a bit, not sure how normal it was for them to face life-threatening situations.
“This is a normal Thursday for us.” Chris laughed as the elevator began to lower to the eighth floor.
It had finally occurred to Eve, why were not they in school. “Wait, a minute, what about school?” Eve panicked, wondering if everyone was wondering where she was. Absences at a school could not help her record.
“Let’s just say that the Order has an agreement with the government,” Jasmine said looking at the doors open to the elevator, all the boys headed out the elevator and down the hallways to their rooms.
Eve had thought about it. It made sense that a secret society would have workings with the United States government. Thinking of how they would have military equipment like the osprey. “How much does the Order work with the government?” She asked.
“We don’t know much, just that as long as the Order handles business without imposing on civilian life, they leave us alone,” Allison replied.
“Don’t forget that we keep evil from taking over the world. That’s all that matters to them.” Jasmine continued, “The US even likes to request members of the Order for joint operations. They go work with the CIA, to flush out or inspect happenings around the world. More of a United Nations thing than anything.”
“I see.” Eve said, “Are any of you guys worried about that?” She asked concerned. She would hate for one of them to be used like that, like a weapon.
“Can’t say for sure, but David, Kevin, and I are being looked at for a future mission, chances of us getting picked for government employees are small, but not zero,” Jasmine said as the doors opened to the seventh floor, the ladies stepped off the elevator and to their rooms. “I’ll grab you a snack, just please be at the elevator in fifteen minutes.” She begged.
“I got you,” Eve replied. She was tired, it had been a long day, wanting nothing more than to sleep. Stepping inside her room. Closing the door behind her. Walking to her closet to find clean clothes.
David stepped out of the shower. Steam rolling off his body. Walking over to his closet, grabbing his robes. Sighing. “I hate wearing these.” He said. Put on the dark brown trousers and leather boots first. Throwing on the black tunic. Putting on his belt with a sheath attached to it. David’s broadsword gave off a luminescent shine. Seraph steel they called it, as mysterious as it was rare. The handguard was a bronze color, leading up to an Eagle’s head pommel. David combed his hair to the side. Looking as presentable as possible. Last David clipped his green cloak over his right shoulder under his silver pauldron, five horizontal strikes representing the highest rank of Guardian. He turned his head over to the window ceil, a green eagle without wings perched up. “What?” he asked his totem. “I don’t know how I’m going to convince her either.” He reached his hand out as it jumped into his palm. The bird dissipated into David’s open palm.
Gabe wore the same type of robes; The Watchers wore a black uniform to differentiate themselves from the rest of the Order. Due to their self-governance. Gabriel’s katana was worn. Made of a blend of Obsidian and titanium for a lighter weight in his fluid strikes. He liked the deserted style. One of the brown wraps had torn from years of battle. Instead of repairing it, Gabriel tied it where the blade met the hilt. Sliding it inside of its sheath. Gabe walked out the door to the elevator. David had already been waiting for them with Richard. “At least I’m not the last one ready.” Gabe joked.
“My money is on Kevin.” Richard joked.
“It’s always Kevin,” David replied smiling. “Looking good brother.”
“Don’t even start. I know you hate wearing these as much as I do.” Gabe pointed at David wagging his wrist at him.
“The only thing I like is the cloak, It’s the only thing that means something.”
“Like what? Not good enough to be a knight?” Gabe said sarcastically.
“Just because you’re still a level four guardian doesn’t mean you’re not good enough,” Richard said.
“Maybe if you would stop killing people all the time, then they’d promote you.” Carlos walked up behind Gabe. “Like everyone knows you’re on David’s level of combat, if not better.”
“Then why not promote me.” Gabe shrugged mockingly.
“Because you don’t understand what it fully means to be a knight.” Chris walked up.
“Coming from the guy who uses his electric element to stimulate his beard to grow,” Gabe said offended.
“Never said I knew what it meant. Just David knows not to kill people all the time.” He fired back at him.
“They don’t deserve to live?” Gabe said.
“That prevents you from saving people,” Kevin said walking up late with Ethan. “trust me I don’t think everyone deserves redemption, but if you can, why not?”
David looked at Gabe, “Some good advice.” David pushed the button on the control panel.
“I just think the Order is scared that people like me will make a difference,” Gabe said.
“Maybe. Maybe not.” David said, “But killing isn’t always the answer.” The doors opened were Jasmine, Allison, and Eve were waiting for them.
“Bout time,” Allison said with her arms crossed.
“So impatient.” David smiled as he walked into the elevator. Looking at Eve, she smiled back at him not knowing what to say. Her eyes broke contact with him feeling awkward. The rest of the boys funneled into the elevator. “Excited?” He asked her.
“For what?” Eve asked.
“You’re about to meet the council.” David said, “It’s always so fun.”
“Are you being sarcastic? I can’t tell.” Eve admitted. Why would anyone find enjoyment out of being in trouble with authority?
“You tell me.” David grinned. The doors shut and everyone began to chatter. Eve was becoming agitated. Did they always have to cram into an elevator all the time? What if they were to get stuck? She wondered. David would probably say to be patient while Gabe cut a hole in the roof. She started to realize that they were each other’s yin and yang. They were both calm and collected, but Gabe was just more chaotic.
The doors opened at the underground cavern where she had been earlier in the day. It felt like so much time had passed, but it was still her first day there. Awake that was. Everybody funneled out of the elevator. Walking in pairs of threes and twos past the computers and into the darkness. Eve was walking behind everyone, she sped up a bit to catch up with David. “Where are we going?” She asked.
“You’re always asking so many questions.” David joked, “You know Eve got kicked out of the garden for being too curious. You ever just, sit back and enjoy the walk?” Eve looked down at her feet walking, and then back into the darkness of the cavern.
“Maybe I’m just a curious person.”
“Maybe you just need to clear your mind, everything will come to you when it is meant to.” Now that David said it, Eve was always worried about everything. She wanted to mentally prepare herself for life, she tried to control anything possible in life. Her parents always controlled her; she could not even control her powers. Until recently, with the help of David and Gabe. She smiled at the thought. She never had friends who seemed to commit themselves to her. Eve knew David had tried to get her attention before, she still felt bad. What was genuinely surprising to her was the fact Gabe would rush to protect her. Even when the odds were against him. “What’re you smiling about?” David asked.
“Nothing,” Eve said walking next to him. “Just thinking.”
“Should I ask Gabe what you’re thinking about?” David asked smiling. Eve’s face turned hot pink.
“You wouldn’t.” Eve scrunched her hand into a fist.
“Take it easy.” David raised his hands, “Your privacy is yours.” David never romantically thought of her, but for a second, he found her beautiful. Gabe peered at him from the corner of his eyes. David cleared his mind; he remembered his oath. Not that he could not have these thoughts, they were natural. But David had a responsibility, dedicating his life to the destruction of evil, he did not want anything to come between that. Especially after seeing how the loss had affected his own friend.
“Good, now tell your brother that,” Eve said looking over at Gabe.
“Learn how to block me out,” Gabe said from the front of the trail.
“Why can he read minds?” Eve asked.
“Well, every adept have a special ability, unique to them, though many share some abilities some are rarer than others,” David said as they walked into a dimly lit area, what seemed to be a tram or subway to Eve. The group boarded the train, everyone sitting around. Eleazar had been waiting for them. Eve sat down next to David. The seats were rowed in fours. A cross harness secured them in their seats. David snapped him in locked, then Eve did the same watching him put it together.
“So, Gabe can read minds, what can everyone else do?” Eve asked.
“Well, Allison is an exceptional healer. Not a rare power but important, nonetheless. Jasmine can use a stealth ability appearing invincible to the naked eye.” Eve looked around as David went down the list of the group. The train began to speed off. Everyone sat back in their seats enjoying the ride. Eve could tell they were going fast, but for some reason, felt as if they were staying still at the same time. “Kevin can feel the weakest parts in all materials, finding the most vulnerable points in objects.”
“Seems useless, can’t you guys just slash things open.”
“You can’t just go through life destroying everything.”
“I don’t see why not; you guys are so good at it.”
“Moving on.” David laughed. “Richard can create a hard to penetrate energy field, pretty useful. Though he can’t make anything too big.” He continued, Eve stared at the back of Richard’s head, he seemed so nice. Until she saw him fight. “Carlos likes Richard, except, the energy field is manipulated through his weapon, making it stronger. Can be more useful if he learned how to develop it.”
“Hey, I do my best,” Carlos called out.
“Who?” David called out to him.
“Me- “
“Asked,” David said as everyone laughed. “I’m joking, I love you, Carlos.” David laughed but only was met with a middle finger. Eve smiled at him.
“That’s the meanest thing I’ve seen you had done this far. I was starting to think you’re only nice.” Eve said to him. “Maybe you’re starting to open up to me.”
“Some people got to open up.”
“Hey, I’ve been trying, okay?” Eve said crossing her arms. “Just continue with the abilities.”
“Remember how you got shocked?” David asked her. Eve just nodded, “Adepts can also use elemental powers. Chris’ electrical powers are almost unbelievable.” David chuckled feeling awkward. “You probably noticed that Jasmine sort of appears from nowhere.”
“Yeah, I was wondering about that. Does she turn invisible?”
“She actually teleports, just really slowly. It can be a strain on her body and mind if she were to do it quickly.” David explained, Eve figured that each power could have a strain on their bodies. “Ethan is basically good at playing tricks on you, able to persuade you to think something happened when it didn’t.”
“Like Liam?”
David’s smile faded slightly. “Not exactly. Liam manipulates the mind to control you. It’s harder to fight.”
“I see,” Eve remembered feeling as if she had been under his spell. It made sense now, he was able to dominate her mind. Felt almost as if he could make her into something else entirely. She thought to herself, if Liam wanted to, he could take over the world with his tongue. “How do you fight that?”
“You have to be completely committed to something in your life, only then he can’t control you. Or something that makes you happier than anything in the world. You think of that one thing and you can bring yourself back.” David said to her, remembering the one-time Liam attempted to control him but failed.
“What about Virgil?” Eve changed the subject; she could sense David’s energy shift. It had obviously made him uncomfortable to talk about him.
“He’s what we call an ace, his senses can be manipulated enhancing his reaction times. Also manipulates the vehicles as he operates them. That’s why he’s always flying.” David explained.
“That’s pretty cool,” Eve said they both fell to silence.
“Even you.” David said, “You have the ability of energy detection, you can see the spirits flowing from each person or really all life. Extremely rare, I’m jealous.”
Eve had thought about all their abilities, finding it fascinating that not only were they special because of being born an adept. That each person was completely unique in their own way. Making them twice the special that they are. Even herself. She never really thought about how she could see the different colors around her in life. Maybe it was deeper than that, maybe each color meant something else. Considering that each person hosted their own wavelengths and colors. It occurred to Eve; she did not know David’s special ability. “What about you?”
“What about me?” David asked smiling.
“What’s your ability?”
“Oh.” David awkwardly rubbed the top of his head. “I don’t have one.”
“You don’t have one? I thought you said- “
David cut her off. “Yeah, everyone’s unique, I’m unique because I’m not unique.” David laughed.
“I’m sorry I didn’t- “
“I know,” David said.
“David might not have a special whatever, but he’s the greatest duelist, better than any Guardian in the Order. Even had beaten some knights.” A younger teen poked his head out from the seat in front of her. He seemed to be a mix of Caucasian and Asian. “He’s undefeated.” He said excitedly. Eve had never seen this kid before.
“Who are you?” Eve asked him, David appeared annoyed.
“I am- “Excited to announce himself.
“This is Stephen, Master Eleazar’s current apprentice,” David said agitatedly.
“Yes, and the next Watcher,” Stephen said. “My ability is I can move really fast, like extremely.”
“How old are you?” Eve asked him confused about his presence. He gave off blue energy, sporadic in nature.
“I am fourteen, but I am strong enough to be with the Watchers.” He continued to ramble.
“Does your speed apply your mouth?” David asked, his eyebrows narrowed.
“That’s funny.” Stephen replied, “Evelyn I love your hair.” Eve smiled at him.
“Stephen, back up here.” Master Eleazar called out to him from the front seat. “Leave them alone. David is teaching.”
“I can teach to master, trust me.”
“Stephen.” Eleazar sterned his voice. As Stephen followed his command returning from the front of the train. Retaking his seat.
“Something tells me you don’t like him.”
“He’s naïve,” David said. “Just to the point where he thinks he’s better than he actually is. He has potential if only he would learn to listen.”
The tale has been taken without authorization; if you see it on Amazon, report the incident.
“I see,” Eve said, slightly feeling bad for the kid, but trusting David’s judgment. “So, you’re the greatest duelist?” She asked changing the subject.
“Can we just enjoy the ride?” David laughed.
“David doesn’t like talking about himself,” Ethan called out. “He’s humbled like that.” David remained quiet. Closing his eyes, Eve just looked at him. Smiling, she felt calm around him. She could feel herself feeding off his energy. He was at ease around him. She closed her eyes as well. Felt herself grow tired. And soon a deep sleep. David did so as well, only meaning to meditate, he felt himself grow restless. Soon he was asleep alongside Eve.
Gabe turned to his side, seeing them sleeping. He shook his head and went back to staring in front of him. “What do you think of them?” Allison asked Gabriel. “I think they’re good together.”
“That’s what scares me,” Gabe said looking down at his hands. “I know David will make the right choice.”
“David deserves to be happy.” Allison smiled, “Get some sleep, you’re going to need it.”
“I think you’re right. Just this once.” Gabriel smiled.
“I’m always right.” Allison watched Gabriel cross his arms and close his eyes. She loved watching him sleep just the same as she loved to hear him talk.
Some time passed; everyone was asleep on the train. The ride had taken a little over an hour and a half. Traveling quickly to the central headquarters of the western branch of The Order. David opened his eyes slowly, feeling pressure on his shoulder. Looking down, bringing his eyes on the blue-headed girl’s head pressed against him. David smiled. She must have leaned up against him unconsciously. Her fingers were gripping the sleeves of her hoodie. David could feel how cold she was. Her body shivered slightly. “Evelyn wakes up, we’re here.” He said to her. Not wanting to surprise her in her sleep. “Evelyn.” He said a little louder, shaking her slightly.
“You failed.” She muttered in a gargle as if her mouth were full of liquid.
“What?” David said, his smile lowered. Thinking she was talking in her sleep. “Wake up.”
Eve raised her head and looked up at David, he backed up once seeing her eyes, slowly dripping with blood. Opening her mouth, he could see her freshly blood-stained teeth. “You could’ve saved me.” She cried out to him. David was in a panic; anxiety consumed his mind. He reached out to her grabbing her head bringing it closer to his chest.
“What happened, Evelyn? Stay with me.” David said, his hands turning green trying to heal her. “Everything is going to be okay.”
“You failed. You could’ve saved all of us.” She repeated crying.
“No. No. No.” David said standing up from his seat. He rested her head against his knee. He could feel the life leave her body. “Stay with me.” She continued to mutter the same words. Till she fell to silence. David cried out in murder, “Allison, help me!” He looked up as everyone was standing around him. “Don’t just stand there!” David continued. They still watched as if he were a caged animal. “Dammit! Help her!” He continued.
“Like you helped me.” He heard Liam’s voice from behind. David turned around, tears rolling down from his eyes. David turned back as Eve continued to bleed out, placing her hand on his face.
“It’s okay.” Eve gargled. She smiled up at him, David locked eyes with her light blue eyes. They slowly faded into black. Dropping her hand, leaving David’s face with crimson blood down his cheek. He screamed in anger as her body fell into a gust of ash slowly. “No. No. No.” He continued to weep. Grasping at the ashes in the air, but it was too late. David jumped to his feet drawing his sword. Swinging at Liam. Interlocking blades and eyes. Liam smiled as he nodded his eyes at David’s blade. David noticed his gesture, lowering his eyes noticing a black energized blade.
“You couldn’t kill me. That’s why they all died.” Liam chuckled. David turned his head as he watched his brother shake his head at him. Gabe drew his sword calmly, tears in his eyes. Charging at David.
“Gabriel, wait!” He screamed out before Gabe brought the sword to his eyes. David saw nothing but white. David opened his eyes, gasping for air. He was back on the train. Looking around as everyone still slept. Eve’s head resting on his shoulder still. Drool dripping from the corner of her mouth on his sleeve. Her arms wrapped around his right arm. David sighed in relief. Noticing the corruption on his hand. He prayed the nightmare was just a dream and nothing more. He would speak about it with his brother and Eleazar. For now, he cleared his mind, looking down at Eve’s dark blue hair, the lighting inside the tram was horrible. Trying to ease his mind, he slowly watched as a light blue aura came from the back of her hoodie. Blinking, it was gone. David looked down at the corruption in his hand, glowing green. Fading away, leaving a slight burning within the muscle. Gritting his teeth.
The train stopped, “Alright everyone. Let’s get this over with.” Master Eleazar said standing up. Looking at David’s eyes locked on him like a sniper. Eleazar nodded. David knew he wanted to talk to him. David slowly shook Eve as she opened her eyes.
“Comfortable?” He asked her. Eve immediately released his arm and wiped her mouth.
“I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to,” Eve said wiping the drool off his arm. David just laughed at her embarrassment. “I didn’t mean anything by that. I was just cold.” She panicked.
“It’s fine.” David smiled; he did not think much of it. There had been plenty of times he fell asleep on people. He was only glad she seemed more rested than before. Everyone began standing from their seats, stretching their arms and legs. “Let’s hurry this up so we can get home,” David said standing up. Eve unbuckled her harness.
“Are they going to talk to me?” Eve asked standing up next to him.
“Possibly, but you’re protected by the code.” David said, “Just think, before talking.” He begged her.
“I always do.” She lied waiting behind Ethan as they were slowly disembarking. Eve stepped out of the train, coming into view of what appeared to be a collection of terminals. Each with their own train. Looking up she read the board. ‘Too Big Bear Commune.’ That must have been their personal train. To get to and from the headquarters. Beautiful statues lined to walls. Depicting different formations of what appeared to be different members of the Order. One was being constructed on the face of a large wall. “This is beautiful.” She muttered. David smiled.
“C’mon.” He said walking, “Stay close, I don’t want you to get lost.” Eve picked up her pace in footing, her eyes gazing at all the people. They all seemed normal. As if she was walking at the mall, but they were all dressed in robes or armor. Few were dressed in simple attire like her. There were aspects of the art along the walls which reminded her of a mix of modernism along with medieval gothic catholic architecture. It was beautiful. Everything was clean, nothing left neglected corners and edges of the walls. Not even a speck of dust seemed to exist. The group followed each other in pairs down the hall, Eve had trouble with being slowed by her fascinations. She stuck to David’s side like glue. “This place was built in the mid-1800s after the Civil War.” David said, “With the continued expansion into the west, the American branch realized the Order would be too thin to cover the entire continent.”
“How many branches are there of the Order?” Eve wondered. Eyes gazing on the murals down the long hall.
“Unknown to be fair, the main ones are the west and east North American branches, the European branch in Britain, the Jerusalem circle, the Asian branch, and recently the Japanese branch.”
“So, they all work together for what goal?” Eve asked.
“To keep the world safe.” David continued, “There are those who would use this to oppress and enslave the world. We stop that from happening.”
“What if the Order became corrupt?” Eve asked David.
“Well, there was a German branch of the Order.” David said, “After that, I can’t say anything else until you’ve been inducted.”
“Wait, what?” Eve widened her eyes in surprise.
“Now before we enter the council hall. I must warn you, do not take anything they say at heart, even if it’s positive. Take everything with a grain of salt.” David said as they all stopped. Waiting in line as everyone began to flood into their seats of the council chambers. “Do your best not to get stage fright, speak only the truth. There will be many people.”
“That doesn’t help me.” Eve said, “What is this for?” She despised the idea of being the center of attention.
“Two things, I’m in trouble for not killing Liam. And your trial to be accepted or not.”
This was happening. Eve was going to have to make her final choice at a change for a different life. She wanted to be with the Watchers, but she was still young. Could she commit to something as serious as this? Regardless, she felt chosen for this. And she wanted to be with them. They gave her a feeling of purpose.
“Don’t choke,” Gabriel said as they gathered all following Master Eleazar.
“Guardians of the coast. Over here!” A man yelled out outfitted in armor. David brought himself to the front of the group. “Master Eleazar, you are requested at your chair.” He bowed to the tall man.
“Thank you.” Master Eleazar said, placing his hand on David’s shoulder, “You will defend Miss Taylor, and yourself. I believe in you.”
“Thank you, Master,” David said as Eleazar walked into the council chambers.
“Only Evelyn and yourself,” The Guardian asked.
“Yeah,” David replied, the guardian waved his hand to follow him into a room on the side of the hallway.
The Watchers watched David and Eve head inside. They all stood together, “Good luck.” Gabriel smiled at Eve. He was just starting to show that he cared. She smiled back at him before following David into the room. Another guardian stood waiting for them.
“Hello, Captain Locklear. Miss Taylor. I have been tasked with acting as a lawyer for your case. Now if you- “
“I won’t be needing a lawyer,” David said standing next to Eve.
“I thought you would say that. However, I think you need to understand the weight of the matter.”
“I know the weight. I respectively decline.” David said. “I will speak for myself.” David was stern. Placing the responsibility on himself and himself alone. David is the one at fault and will pay for his actions himself.
“Miss Taylor?” The guardian asked her. “Do you request someone to speak for you?”
“I can speak for myself. If I need anyone for anything David is here.”
“As you wish.” The guardian said. He bowed respectively to David and walked off. David looked down at her smiling slightly from the corners of his cheek.
“I don’t expect you to speak for me,” Eve said.
“I just hope you tell the truth, even if it gets me in trouble.” David laughed as they stood at the doorway awaiting to be called. Eve looked up at him and smiled. He was something else, honorable she thought to herself. His integrity was something out of a storybook. It was unreal to her how someone could hold themselves to such a high standard. “Why are you looking at me like that?” David asked.
“You’re just interesting.” Eve said, “I’ve known too many people growing up who would ask for people to lie for them just to get out of trouble. Even for the smallest of things.” She said turning from him.
David was unsure if he took that as a compliment or not. His pride in his honor was important to himself. He would hold true to his word, even if it hurt those around him. He refused to be known as a liar or manipulator. “Thanks.” He said looking ahead into the council chamber hall. “So, here’s your last chance to bail.”
“I think it’s time for me to figure out who I am,” Eve told him.
“Order!” A thundering voice called from the council halls. Almost appearing as a colosseum, a large round table sat in the center with two openings, one that lead to the exit, and the other to the doorway where David and Eve were standing. Members of the Order sat in the bleachers. Falling into silence. The Council members arose from their seats at the round table. Twelve of them stood at their seats, Master Eleazar seated at the seat closest to the exit. All wearing a combination of robes and perfect armor. Besides Eleazar that is. “The council is now in session. In light of recent events, former Guardian four, Liam Shields, has been reported to commit acts of violence against the Order. Carrying out assaults on hideouts across the west coast. Answering their failure in the elimination of Liam Shields. Guardian five, David Locklear!” He called out.
“That’s my queue,” David said, stepping out into the light of the council hall. Eve wished him luck under her breath. Hoping for the best. He walked along the royal red carpet lined to the center of the round table. Soon coming to the center. David bowed his head, lowering his shoulders lightly. The council paid their respect in return to him. Gabe watched from above whispering with Kevin.
“Now we watch, as this meeting is pointless. Unless the council had finally completely lost it.” Gabe said with spite between his teeth.
“Who knows?” Kevin said quietly. “Everyone here knows David, he’s basically a hero.”
“The Order hates heroes.” Jasmine said, “Now quiet down, I’m trying to pay attention.”
The council members took their seats, David stayed standing although a chair in the center with a table was optioned to him. “Guardian David Locklear, of the Guardians of the Coast.” Master Leonora, a woman in her late forty’s sat to the right of the center. The executive master of the Order was tasked with being the speaking voice of the council. Second, only to the Grandmaster. Her hair was long and braided, running down the fronts of her shoulders. “You were charged with the elimination of Liam Shields, correct?”
“I was,” David said.
“And you failed to complete that mission is that correct?”
“Yes, master.” David stood firm, offering no shame or guilt upon his face.
“Why is that?” She demanded an answer.
“He escaped.” David said, “We were surrounded by members of the Brotherhood. I found it more important to save my team to fight another day.”
“Please.” She said looking down at him, “A man of your reputation as a guardian, paired along with your brother. You should have no problem taking on a few members of a so-called Brotherhood.”
“It was more than few, no member of the Order is foolish enough to fight more than three at a time.” David stayed true, even knowing she would not believe him.
“Impossible, I think he’s lying.” Master Wilson said, an older man. After becoming a council member, he had given into his eating habits. Luckily, he wasn’t fit for the job because of his hand-to-hand combat skill. He was a superior elemental user. “If the Brotherhood was in fact as large as you say, then we would have noticed it by now.”
“It could be possible that they are hiding.”
“If I would interject.” Master Eleazar chimed in, “David is one of the top members of the Order that is true, but even so. We have had reports of a growing dark faction. Is his testimony not proof of that?”
“Only rumors, the Order would know of this growing faction before it would possibly get to a scale our members couldn’t handle.” She disregarded Eleazar’s notions.
“What of the twenty or so men my team engaged in the woods near our commune?” David asked. “I’m sorry master, I don’t want to insult your intelligence but why were so many so close to my commune?” He asked. Master Leonora sat in silence, not knowing what to say. “Yes, I failed in eliminating Shields, I will not argue that. However, I know as much as you do, that the presence of the Brotherhood is ever-growing. I believe that the Order has become far too confident in its power to acknowledge this.” David said taking a step towards her. The members in the bleachers erupted into chatter and argument. The council members began discussing David’s revelation.
“Guardian Locklear, if what you say is true. The elimination of Shields is imperative.” Master Leonora said. “You will have one more week to atone for this. For now, your trial will be placed on hold. If not, find evidence of this Brotherhood and you will be cleared of this duty. Or face excommunication from the Order.” David bowed to the council taking a step back.
“Looks like it's hunting season boys.” Richard turned around and fist-bumped Ethan and Carlos.
“This could lead to war. And if we do not play this right. Many could die.” Allison said chewing at the tip of her thumb. Thinking of her older brother.
“That’s why we need to snuff out their hideouts and kill Liam,” Gabriel said turning around.
“I know it may not seem like it, but they just told David that the Watchers aren’t just watching over anymore,” Kevin said. Not sure if he was to be worried or not.
“Does that mean we get a name change?” Stephen asked, “Because I vote Talon Strike.”
“Who the hell is this we?” Virgil laughed. Every just smiled at him. “Focus on training before playing with big leagues.” Virgil laughed at him.
“I bet I could take you on any day, green boy.” Stephen’s face filled with agitation.
“Green boys don’t always mean weak boys.” Kevin smiled at him, punching him softly in the shoulder, “You’ll get your chance kid.” Stephen crossed his arms, sitting back to pout.
“This is serious guys,” Jasmine said scolding her excited brother. “Needless killing and war are not who we are.”
“Think David can actually bring him back, Gabe?” Allison asked looking at Gabriel, who appeared worried from the tapping in his foot.
“I don’t know.” Gabe said, leaning forward, “There are too many people here for me to pinpoint reading the council member’s minds.” He said getting agitated.
“David, will you please hand me your sword.” Master Hawkins said. The eldest council member is an old black man with a leathery face. He was bald, sitting with his fingers interlaced with the other. Out of all the arguing and debate within the halls. David heard his soft voice as if he were standing right in front of him. David drew his sword out from its sheath. Walking slowly to Master Hawkins, David presented it to him. The halls soon fell to silence watching. Master Hawkins had the ability of the echo. He can read and see the visions of items wielded by those who used spirits. The man slowly unlaced his fingers, grabbing the hilt. “Thank you.” He said, holding the broad sword carefully as if it would shatter under the slightest touch. This kept him from becoming hurt from holding it.
David bowed and stepped back allowing him to work. “Thank you, David, so young, but a heavy burden you carry.” Hawkins looked up from the blade and locking eyes with David. “Be still your mind, and all will come to pass.” He offered the sword back to David. David nodded and took his sword sheathing it once more. It was at that moment that Eve realized how much stress David must have been under. He was to lead, protect, and ensure the survival of a commune. He was tasked with killing his best friend. And now he was to help her on her journey.
“War is coming, and we are fools to neglect it.” Master Hawkins proclaimed. The council looked on him with divided looks. Master Eleazar looked on at David, their eyes locking. Eleazar smirked at him, choosing to stay silent, however. They both knew they would continue to debate for months before anything were to happen.
“Moving on,” Master Leonora said, “In lighter opening news. Evelyn Taylor of California, please join us.” Eve took a deep breath in the doorway, leaving the corridor. She walked down the carpet to David, she could feel her blood rushing. Anxiety filled her head. Maybe if she stood near David, she could at least relax with his energy waves. All the members of the Order looked on at her, she appeared normal to everyone. Except her dyed blue hair made it hard for some to pay attention to what was going on. Eve took a step near David, he smiled at her and waved his hand, gesturing for her to stand in the center. She was nervous.
“I am Master Leonora; I am second in charge of the Council. I apologize that the Grandmaster is currently needed elsewhere and that you had to hear our bickering.” She said sitting with her hands together.
Eve swallowed the spit in her throat and cleared it before speaking. “There’s no need.”
“Tell me, Evelyn, who are you?” She asked.
“What’s there to know that you don’t already know?” Eve asked.
“Smart girl.” She replied, “We know a lot of you, you came on our map years ago.”
Eve looked down at the carpet. Not understanding how the Order had known of her prior; why now is everything happening? “You knew about me, years ago?”
“Yes, when you were just a blonde-headed child.” She continued, “However when trying to make contact your family prevented it. Respecting their wishes, we left you alone. But we did keep tabs on you.”
“Why is that?” She asked.
“Because you displayed acts of rage, damaging those around you.” Leonora continued, “You are far too old to be fully accepted in the Order.”
Eve scrunched her fist; it was not hard to believe that her own family would control every aspect of her life. What she did not understand is why would she not be fully accepted. “Excuse me, Master, but Evelyn is willing to commit to the Order,” David spoke out from his silence keeping his hands together at his waist. Gabe stood up from his seat, he linked his mind with David’s, not something he did often to allow David to pull information from his brain. Pouring Eve’s thoughts into David.
“David, you don’t need to say anything,” Eve said turning towards him.
“No. Master Leonora, you are making a terrible mistake. Eve craves being something larger than herself. She has never had a family of her own. Let her be under our care and our training. Times like these are dire, we need more guardians than ever.”
Master Leonora scowled at David, “You mistake your place guardian.” She said. “We don’t accept people of her age; I can feel the rage inside her from here.”
“When do we abandon each other?” Master Eleazar spoke out. “David and the rest of the Watchers are more than capable of teaching and caring for her.” Eve was confused, why would her age affect anything. She was willing, more than ever now. David could feel her emotions, she was being filled with doubt.
“When she has the ability to turn against us.” Master Leonora said angered.
“Regardless, if you accept her or not, I will teach her,” David said.
“I don’t believe you understand who you’re talking to.”
“David you really don’t have to do this,” Eve spoke out. “I’m used to this.” Her lips began to tremble.
“That’s why he’s doing it,” Gabe said to her, she turned watching him leaning over the rafters. She could feel her heart heat up. Why does he show so much compassion for her? “As much as I don’t like the idea of you, you’re still one of us,” Gabriel admitted to her.
“You would be expelled from the Order.” Leonora stood. “Are you loyal to the Order or the Watchers?”
“Are you loyal to the Order or yourself? Last, I remember, the Order is to save those who are lost and guardians of peace. Not everyone who is lost is lost forever.” David gritted his teeth; he knew he was being disobedient. He had finally snapped with everything the Order had been doing. “I didn’t know you spoke for the entirety of the council.”
“The council will vote, for the ability for miss Taylor to be accepted in the Order and immediately placed within the Watchers.” Master Hawkins said. He had always been a soft-spoken man, but at this time, he commanded the attention of the room. Which he had acquired. “David, do you accept the responsibility of miss Taylor, making you accountable for her actions and whatever is to happen?”
David looked at Eve, she had been locking her eyes on him, how can a man so young be so selfless? Her eyes welled up, the whites turning to hot pink. David turned back to Master Hawkins, “I do Master.” David said without hesitation, confidently. “That is if Miss Taylor consents.” Eve nodded up at him, speechless.
“Then I believe that I speak for the majority of the council.” He said turning to the rest of his fellow councilmen and women. Most nodded their heads in agreement. Only Master Leonora and two others disapproved. “Master Eleazar, will you do the honors?” Eve broke into tears. She had treated David with so much disregard. Though time and time again, he had fought to keep her safe. As well-doing everything, he could too. She shot from where she stood, turning around, hugging him. David’s eyes looked down at her blue hair. Tears began to roll from her eyes. David hugged her back calmly, relaxing.
“Thank you,” She said softly. David released her.
“I prepared my sword for this.” Master Eleazar said standing up, ecstatic. Walking over to the two. Gabe and the other Watcher’s stood up, watching in anticipation. All smiling. He walked to the center; Eve stood next to David. Unsheathing his sword. Covered in beautiful etches of the origins of the Order in the crusades. “Evelyn Taylor, will you take both knees please, remove your hoodie as well.” She wiped her eyes off her tears with the sleeve of her hoodie. Nodding, before taking off her hoodie, she wore a tank top. Allison had told her to wear that, now she understood why. Eve took a knee at a time. Till she was on both knees looking up at Eleazar. “David, do you accept under the code of the Order of Solomon, the responsibility of Eve before God and the spirits as a man of the templar’s apprentice?”
“Yes.” He said placing his palms out to his Master.
“Then by the authority of the Order of Knights Templar. I declare you, David, son of Locklear, first of his name, Captain of the Watchers, Lord of Big Bear, protector, and guardian of the coast. Protector of Evelyn Taylor.” Master Eleazar carefully places the sword across his palms, slashing his hands, drawing blood onto the sword. Coating the images with David’s blood. David gritted his teeth in pain. Only once had his blood been drawn for this. Eve lowered her head. Master Eleazar displayed the sword for everyone to witness. Placing the tip of the blade into the ground. Grasping the brown leather hilt with both his hands, placing one palm on the blade. Quickly swiping his hand across it as the blood ran down the center. Intermixing with David’s. “Evelyn, daughter of Taylor, first of her name. Do you swear to abide by the code of the Order of Solomon, and the orders of the council, and the knights above you, and most importantly, to preserve the peace and security of the realm of man?” He asked.
Eve bit down on her teeth, tears running down her face more than before. She knew at this moment; she was exactly where she was supposed to be. She had found her home, not only were they just friends, but they were also a family. And soon each and every one of them will accept her. She could tell that they each came from a different walk of life, but they treated each other equally. Eve was ready to begin a new life, moving on from the past. All the pain growing up, without feeling loved, or unwanted flashed before her eyes. It was finally over. She smiled with everyone and can tell she was genuinely happy for once. Especially, David, she did not believe in a God, but she prayed he would one day find the happiness he deserved, she could see the pain in his eyes he hid from the others. She knew because she bore the same eyes. “I do.” She said out loud.
“Then by the authority of the Order of Solomon, and the Knights Templar. I Initiate you- “Eleazar lifted the blade, wiping the blood off the sword on her shoulders. Leaving streaks across the top of her shoulder bones. The crimson red dripped down her arms, back, and chest. “Into the Order and the Watcher’s apprentice.” Eve smiled wide. David bowed to her. “Now arise, Guardian one of the Order.” Eve stood up from her knees off the ground. “Protector of the coast.” She stood confidently. The chambers broke into thunderous applause, welcoming their new comrade and sister.
David rose from his bow. Smiling wide at Eve. This is the happiest he had ever seen her. Wishing he could save her smile in his mind forever. Gabe shook his head smiling. The rest of the Watchers took off to the exit to be the first waiting for the two. “They’re cute together,” Allison said following behind Gabe.
“Don’t tell them that.” He laughed, “Remember, we still have a mission.”
“What’s the point of going to war if you can’t enjoy what we’re fighting for?” Stephen said. Everyone stopped to glare at him. “What?”
“You said something not annoying.” Gabe scowled, “today is truly strange.” Stephen shrugged as everyone continued to the exit.
David handed Eve her hoodie, as she threw it over her forearm.
“Is there anything you need before we send them to war?” Master Eleazar asked Leonora. “The boy knows he has a week. Let them go to prepare.”
She held a scowl of disparagement, she hated having been disrespected by David. Even more, so that he was rewarded for it. She looked upon him, “This meeting is adjourned.” She said, shooting from her chair. Turning around to leave. David bowed to the council. Eve looked at him, and then at Eleazar. He nodded his head at her. Eve immediately understood, bowing as well next to David. The council stood from their chairs, bowing to the pair.
“Boy, take Evelyn. Begin with teaching her the history of the code of the Order. If I’m not back in time.” Master Eleazar handed David a bag. “Conduct the test.” He said before walking off.
“Yes, Master,” David said raising his bow.
“Why does he always call you boy?” Eve wondered before David started walking away, she stood at his side.
“I haven’t earned his respect.” David muttered, “Not yet at least. C’mon Guardian.” Eve smiled as they headed for the exit