RIFT Anthology: Book 5: Breaking Point

Prologue

One night, Rift walks into Aliz's apartment. She is not around at first but can be heard singing in her bedroom, getting ready. Rift hears the hair dryer over her music as he soon lays eyes on his 'God-daughter'. She is playing with a few figurines sprawled out on the carpet. He goes over and greets her in a lively voice.

"Hiya, Roana."

"Uncle Ronan! You're here!"

"Yeah," he enthusiastically replies. "We're gonna have lots of fun and games."

"Yay, I love games," she replies excitedly.

"What games would you like to play?"

"I wanna play hide and seek and... and go see the city."

"You wanna see the city?"

"Yeah."

"Again? We did that last time. Are you sure?"

"Yes, yes, yes. I wanna see the city. It's hu- humongous."

"Wow, you are getting really good with your words."

Aliz then walks into the living area and sees Ronan. She is all glammed up with her long hair dyed red, ready to hit the town.

"Great, you're here. Just in time," she says.

"You're dressed fancy. Where're you heading out tonight?"

"Just the Glasshouse Bar up in Featherview."

"Oh nice. Haven't actually been there before but I've heard good things."

"I shouldn't be out too long but I'll let you know regardless."

"Yeah 'course."

"And thank you for looking after her tonight. Means a lot. You two need the time anyway."

"True. I've been stuck in the house tryna help Red with his projects."

"But anyway, I best be goin'."

"You want me to portal you there?"

"No but thanks for the offer. I need the walk."

"No problem. Just gimme a call if you need a portal home or something."

Aliz walks to the door and puts her coat on. "Will do, thanks." She then opens the door and waves Roana goodbye. "Bye-bye sweetpea. Behave for your uncle now."

"I won't," she cheekily replies.

Aliz playfully scowls back at her before closing the door with an endearing smile. After the door closes, Rift goes to look at Roana, but she's already hiding.

"Flip. Where'd you go? You are a nimble little thing, aren't you?" Rift can then hear her giggling. "Now, where are you hiding at?" he says playfully.

Rift looks around acting cautious, taking soft steps. He continues to hear Roana's faint laughter. He soon realises where she is hiding but pretends to be oblivious. He walks into the back utility room which is also used as a pantry. The dim light from the city shines in as if it was moon light. Rift walks up to the window and scratches his head, knowing she's half in a cupboard. "I lost her. You're really good at this, Roana."

She then jumps out trying to scare him and he pretends to be spooked.

"Got you," she says.

"Oh my goodness. You gave me a scare."

Roana laughs again and he lifts her up. SHe then looks out the window to gaze at the city. "Some day, I'll be magic like you and explore the city."

Rift chuckles and says, "Magic?"