A Number, Not a Name

Where Worlds Collide

Three months earlier:

The flight to Bulin was cramped. Sweaty and hot passengers all stacked on top of one another. I had no idea so many people visited Krudia now. Though I guess I wouldn't know considering how long it's been. Liana sat next to a window six rows back in economy class, wearing a blank expression on her face. Growing up she had always flown first class with her family but now she thought it best to have a seat near the back of the plane, not wanting to draw unwanted attention to herself.

The sound of a baby's cries echoed through the cabin, joining that of the engine rumbling and passengers snoring as they slept. Liana let out a sigh. Children, though at times a joy to have and be around, often served as a source of annoyance. Especially when it came to crying children on a flight. Her thoughts were interrupted as a voice came from the seat beside her. "So what brings you to Krudia?"

Liana looked over at the older woman and smiled. "Business, and yourself?"

"I'm actually returning home. I just visited my daughter and her husband. They live in Hungary. Every time I visit they keep trying to convince me to move there. They're always saying how it's so much nicer and a much better place to live than Krudia. I know they're right but Krudia is where I've lived my whole life. My family's ancestral home. There is so much history, you know?"

Liana nodded. "I understand."

"Whenever I visit them I make sure not to stay too long. Otherwise, I'm afraid they'll persuade me to move." She chuckled to herself. "Is this your first time visiting Krudia?"

"Yes. It's my first time." Liana lied. She hoped she sounded convincing enough.

The older woman seemed to believe her words as she nodded her head. "Well, I hope that you'll find your stay here pleasant and enjoyable."

"Thank you, ma'am." Liana turned to look out the window, hoping the lady would take it as a sign to end their conversation. But the woman continued to chatter on.

"If you have the time I would highly recommend visiting the Izmirlian Square. It truly is magnificent. The marble statues and fountains. The Ionic columns."

Liana turned back to the woman. "Oh it sounds...wonderful" she replied in a disinterested fashion.

The woman clapped her hands once in excitement. "I didn't even mention the square's historical significance. You seem like a girl who likes history. I mean, who doesn't like history. My ex-fiancé was actually a history teacher..." The woman continued to prattle on. Liana quickly looked at her watch and sighed. There were still nearly five hours left for the flight. I should have traveled in first class instead. "Though it may be somewhat difficult to have the best experience at the square, what with all the rallies and loud marches of Dalmar's supporters." Liana sat up in her seat as she heard Dalmar's name.

"Dalmar? As in Davit Dalmar of Dalmar Petroleum Corporation?"

"One and the same."

"I think I remember hearing that he announced a run for parliament and that it was met with a mixed reaction."

"I've never seen a group of people more devoted to a person. And I've lived quite a while."

Liana looked ahead, lost in thought. "You ever wonder what causes that much loyalty...devotion in a person, that they'd stay by someone's side no matter what." She said softly, a hint of sadness in her voice.

"Hmmm," the woman thought for a moment. "Either love or desperation I suppose. Though in Dalmar's case I'd be surprised if it wasn't the latter."

Liana glanced out the window again. "I have a feeling it doesn't matter which one it is to Dalmar."