I Am The Truth II

Chapter XXVIII: Doubt

"Why can't you leave me alone?" Ross grumbled. "I thought you wanted nothing to do with me."

"I know you are planning something," Hubris said in the most accusing tone he could muster. 

Ross drew back in response, almost in irritation.

"What are you doing?" Hubris demanded.

"What do you think?!" Ross exploded, his voice full of exasperation. "Of course I'm planning something."

"Which is?" 

"... now please," Ross scoffed. "You really thought I'd tell you?"

"I should have known," Hubris spat. "But I want to hear it from you-"

"I find it curious that I am not the only one seeking answers," A different voice said suddenly.

Both wheeled around to see Achillean standing there, his hands folded. Behind him stood Malakai, for whatever reason. Perhaps the giant had been sent here as a part of the service he owed.

"Not you," Ross interrupted, finally speaking. "The two Nestoris that embarrassed my ass. You two were supposed to be in my position a month ago!"

"You have not let up one bit, eh?" Achillean remarked, entering the cell.

"I have let us down, actually," Hubris replied. "More than ever. I should have just had this man killed!"

"Why?" Ross asked, finding mild amusement in Hubris' exasperation.

"He is one of them!" Hubris roared, his eyes wide like a ghost. "He used my Val like a disposable asset. He coveted one of our most sacred relics, the Mobilium Prime. And now he is here, about ready to rain shit over our heads, I kid you not-"

"Hubris," Achillean began, but Hubris didn't hear him.

"They are not coming for us," Hubris said. "They are coming for the CPRU and all the other big leaders. We are just in the way."

"Actually, they're also coming for Val," Ross began. "Shame she's stupid enough that she'll probably get lost before anyone can find her."

Hubris roared, but Achillean planted a hand firmly on his shoulder. 

"Hubris, I think you have been here long enough," Achillean said briskly. "Calm yourself."

The younger Nestoris scowled, but did as the elder suggested. Achillean watched him go before turning to Ross.

"I was so close to having your ass handed to me in a platter," Ross said, emphasizing the words sharply in distaste.

"Thank you," Achillean said with a nod. "A lesson for next time is to cut down on the monologues."

The elder Nestoris took the seat where Hubris had been.

"Whatever he came for is not why I am here," Achillean began. 

"Thank you," Ross said sarcastically. "So what are you here for?"

He waited, remembering Achillean to be rather cryptic when he wanted to make a point. However, the Nestoris was silent. Both sat there for minutes. Ross was beginning to sweat, feeling the silent lasers of Achillean's eyes boring into his mind.

"Well?!" Ross finally demanded. "What do you want?"

Achillean silently withdrew a portfolio and slid it before Ross. The man raised an eyebrow, but slowly took it in his hands and opened it. There was a single medical report, and he soon looked up. Achillean was carefully reading his expression, trying to discern whether or not the man knew something.