DEMON HUNT

Chapter 32: A promise's fulfilment

It's past noon, a warm sunny day. The weather hasn't changed much from when Mario arrived. Ian leads Mario on foot, to a government reserved area, the best part of Marcella. They both come to a halt as they stand before a large black gate positioned as an entry way to the vast compound in front of them. There's a watch tower visibly in use within the vicinity. Neither of the boys seem surprised or amazed by the sight.

Ian, apparently experienced on the issue, takes some steps closer to the gate, and slips Mario's invitation card through a slot, apparently made for that purpose. The card is pulled all the way through by a hand at the other end. Mario watches on as he inquires of Ian.

Mario: So, this is it?

Ian: Don't kid yourself, man. We're still several kilometers away. This is just the beginning.

The large intimidating gate begins to open slowly, revealing the grandeur sight hidden behind it. Mario and Ian slowly walk into the compound and are confronted by a number of armed security agents. The agents seem cautious about the exhibition of aggressiveness, probably because of the relatively obvious tender age of the boys. They search them thoroughly but gently. After the search, the boys are lead into a car driven by one of the agents as she starts the engine, intending to take them to the one they're looking for. The drive turns out to be a rather quiet one as both of the boys spend a large majority of the time staring at the captivating sceneries along the way.

The car soon comes to a halt, after a reasonable amount of time, as another agent opens the car door, beckoning on the boys to get off. They obey almost instantly and are lead to a beautiful well furnished room, where they are politely asked to wait. Ian soon breaks the silence, with a bright smile on his face as he hops on a couch.

Ian: Beautiful sight, isn't it? It gets me every time.

Mario stares at him in surprise.

Mario: Every time? You've been here before?

Ian becomes dazzled by Mario's question. He soon gets a grip and gives a sharp reply.

Ian: Of course I have! More times than I can count.

Mario: I was wondering why they let you in without an invitation. I'm guessing that explains...

Mario is interrupted by the entrance of an agent who addresses them.

Agent: Gentlemen, miss Layla Beau.

Ian slowly rises to his feet. A blond haired, light skinned teenage girl, about their height, walks in. All signs point to her being only slightly younger than Mario. She radiates an aura similar to that of a lady, leaving both boys in awe. Ian is the first to regain his composure as he lets out a warm smile.

Ian: It's been a while, Layla.

At this moment, Layla yelps in excitement as she moves to hug Ian, while Mario watches on. The agent is dismayed as shown by a shake of the head.

Agent: I suppose it can't be helped.

Ian chuckles as he manages to break free from Layla's firm grip.

Layla: (To Ian) How've you been? Where have you been? I've been dying to see you. You jerk! You got into trouble again, didn't you.

Ian: Geez...where do I even start?

It all suddenly goes quiet as Layla turns towards the agent expectantly. The agent instantly gets the message and begins to shake her head in protest.

Agent: No, nah, nope. I'm not doing that.

Layla makes an adorable face as she pleads.

Layla: Pleaseeee. It's just Ian. He's like family.