Elvirund | ✔️

Chapter Nine

Any qualms I had about the newest face in our clinic were gone as soon as I asked one question.

"So what do you think of the place?"

"It's so much like home. I think I could really enjoy this."

Cassius Flynn, a longtime friend of Chip's, had been meaning to join the ranks of doctors under me but hadn't had the money or transportation to. Today he had successfully arrived, much to Chip's delight. I gathered they hadn't seen each other in some time, as Chip was more than ecstatic to introduce me. I had an instinct that he was perfect for the job, and I hoped that my instincts would prove correct again.

"I'm so glad you made it."

"I am too, you have no idea."

A warm feeling melted inside me at the friendship cultivated between the two young men. I envied them. Not maliciously, of course, but wistfully. Elvirund had not been kind enough to grant me such a close friend. Such were the differences in the structure of society. I supposed it was because our goals were different from those of the humans. We were creatures built to maintain peace and balance, or deal out destruction as necessary. The humans lived their lives as they pleased, relishing in the world that we kept in motion. What a fine experience, a human life was.

"Dr. Clover, this is Cassius. He's been meaning to work here for some time."

"Well met, Cassius. I'm glad you like the place. It's home for all of us."

Cassius gave me a warm smile, which I returned happily. He seemed a welcome change from a certain previous applicant and I accepted it with relief. I didn't think I could handle that much bastard.

"Alright. I'll see if we have any open bedrooms. If not, are you alright with sharing one?"

"Of course. Provided that there are separate beds?"

"Absolutely."

We all shared a laugh. and I looked him up and down once.

"I think you could turn out to be one of my best students yet."

Chip put a hand over his heart in mock horror.

"Better than me?"

"No, of course not." I played along.

"Oh, thank goodness."

Chip threw a hand over his eyes with a dramatic flair. It was hard not laughing right there.

"Although, you may want to pursue an acting career instead."

He raised his eyebrows and slowly waved away my suggestion, exaggerated disgust twisting his features.

"Only kidding. You're my best friend. I wouldn't let you leave."

I hadn't felt this way about anyone before. I had never been so close to someone as to want them beside me for eternities. In Elvirund, it was a lucky case to have even a sibling, and I was forced to play the role of a satisfied sister. I didn't hate her by any means; I just didn't have the feelings of closeness that angelic society required of me. Chip had been the first person to show me any kindness outside of human courtesy, and I could never repay him for it. Yet I knew deep in my heart it wasn't love. It wasn't, but it appeared to be, therefore I was breaking the last forbidden law. At least, in the eyes of the Elders I was. They only acted on suspicions, and never took time to ensure that their target was actually breaking the law. I would admit, however, that it was understandable after the last incident involving me.

"Chip, can you excuse me for a moment?"

"Take your time."

I let myself panic. Why another flashback now? Were these memories important? They had been coming back to me slowly, as if purposefully given back to me. So why the sudden onslaught? Was this Raphael again? I couldn't push it back any longer. Before I could collapse I dove into my room and slammed the door.