What Lies In Me

Chapter 16

"Namtillaku?" I ask, confused. It sounds like I know the name, but cannot place it. I know I've heard it before, but it's more than that. I feel like I've known that name for a long time.

"Oh?" Asarualim seems surprised. "Have you heard of Namtillaku?"

"No, no... I don't think so." I shake my head. "It's just... I feel a reaction to it. It seems very familiar."

"That's not that surprising. You have a connection to him of some sort."

"How do you know that?"

"Your blood. You see," he continues, noting my confusion. "Every demon from the pit took a unique form and unique abilities upon entering this world. Namtillaku's blood set him apart. He could alter physical nature with it, using power from our own realm."

"And that's what I can do."

"Correct. You can alter the physical properties of an object. You can also do so much more." We stop in front of a door, and he opens it. "Would you come in here with me?"

"Um, sure," I reply, walking in after him. "So what else can I do?"

"All in good time," he answers, walking over to a small table. He reaches into a hidden drawer, and pulls out some documents. "Would you mind taking a look at these?"

"No, not at all," I murmur, sitting down at the table. There are several clauses and agreements on the table. I look very closely at a few of them, and it dawns on me. "Are... are you offering me a job?"

"Offering isn't a strong enough word," he replies. "You see, as I told you, you cause a lot of trouble for me. I cannot have you running loose and causing havoc. So this is my offer."

He pauses. I look at him, listening intently.

"You either work for me, under strict restrictions, or you remain a prisoner here for the rest of your life."

My jaw drops. "But-"

"There are no other options. I cannot release you unless you sign these documents. It would be too dangerous, for me and for mankind. If you ever want to see anyone you care about again, you will agree to sign these."

I clamp my mouth shut. Fuming, I begin to look at the papers. The job offer forms and agreements are standard, with an additional clause stating that I will not show my abilities around any humans other than an approved list. The exception listed on the paper includes the people in the facility.

"So." I pause, swallowing to clear my throat. "You want me to work for you. To help you detain rogue demons."

"Yes, of course. It really isn't a choice. With my knowledge, government protection, and the gifted associates I have, this is really the only place you will be safe. Even if I wasn't going to imprison you, you'd have a choice between an exciting job with good security and the freedom to have a relationship with your fellow humans, or running and hiding from the constant demon attacks. I will imprison you if you refuse, though."

I sigh. I hate not having a choice. "Do you have a pen?" I ask.

"Oh, you won't be signing this with a pen," Asarualim replies, grinning. "Your blood has many special properties. If you sign a contract in your blood, you will not be able to willingly break it."

I stare at him, open-mouthed.

"Read carefully."

Thoughts buzzing around in my head, I begin to studiously read the documents. What kind of powers do I have beyond altering nature? Just what can I do? Why does this demon want me to work for him so badly? Stifling any questions I have, I continue to read as best I can. Everything in the document is something I can agree with. I look up to see Asarualim watching me.