Retrace

Chapter Ten

CHAPTER TEN

Chief Arden was the one we were supposed to meet when Kyreil, my father and I went here in the central. I don't actually remember what we talked about or did at that time but I know that it has something to do with Kyreil and me getting familiar with this place.

I had time to talk to everyone that night. Most of them don't say much probably because of me. One said that they shouldn't be treated nicely after what they did and by me too. I don't even have the right to get angry at them since I was treated in the same way. Instead, I actually pity them. I've only been there for a couple of minutes and they endured at least months and maybe even years in that place.

Evans apologized to me very deeply. By that, I mean he even knelt down the floor and apologized. He didn't even realize that I was missing until Cassius came in the afternoon. Evan said he was distracted by a new maid. He was certain that he was showing the maid how things worked around the villa when I disappeared. Then when Cassius appeared, the new maid disappeared.

It seems the central Constabulary faction is clever. I know that they're protecting their reputation but, they're doing it in a wrong manner.

It was nearly midnight when we all settled down. At that time, all the seven had already started to speak more. The living room suite was packed up with mattresses to accommodate eight people. I had asked Cassius to sleep with us, but his arrogance took the best of him. He said I needed to be 'protected' through the night. Of course I knew that but he should also think about himself. Well, at least he helped to patch us all up before going to bed.

It was truly a peaceful night. In the morning, we were all refreshed and happy. When we woke up, breakfast was already laid on the table. After eating, we all gathered outside to talk about things.

I had taken note of all of them. All of us are fourteen, except for two. Nicholas is fifteen and Dan is thirteen. I was right in assuming that Nicholas is the first person who tried to deceive the central by posing as me.

They all started talking to each other casually even after knowing them for one day. They're still shy to talk to me freely but, I'm fine with that. Nicholas seemed to be the happiest.

After a while, Cassius came toward us. Ever since that incident happened, I thought that a sword would always be hanging by his side but, Cassius explained that he just brings it with him on dire occasions. I don't even know where he keeps that thing.

"Chief Arden has arrived," Cassius whispered to my ear. "He wishes to have audience with the young lord."

That was fast. I think I know what he'll say to me. I stood up to walk to the gazebo.

"Um, where are you heading?" Dan asked. He stood up and clung to my hand.

I smiled. I sent Cassius away to Chief Arden. "It'll be fine. I won't even be far." I pointed to the gazebo. I could see Chief Arden heading there already. "See that over there? I'll just be there."

Dan has been clinging to me since yesterday. Well, maybe because he's younger than me. He's the one who usually talks to me.

"But, if you'll be staying there, can I come with you too?" Dan asked.

I thought about it for a while. "No can do, Dan. It would be better is you stay here."

"Wait, please," Nicholas suddenly said, rushing towards me. "The warden's in here! Don't go there!"

I turned to the gazebo and it's true. The warden was slowly walking towards the gazebo where Cassius and Chief Arden are.

I looked back at Nicholas. Sometimes, he thinks like a child that it's hard to believe he's one year older than me. Well, being behind bars for a long time could have led to that.