LOST SHADOWS - A Broken Lie

Chapter 23

The plaza ball room was dimly lit as the sound of jazz and people talking filled the air. It was a grand party, many heads of organizations and businesses were gathered. Each person dressed to the nines, a show of wealth and influence. Most held Champagne in hand as they held conversation with each other. Some even danced, letting the music sway and spin them. And up on the second floor balcony overlooking it was the host of this grand juncture. Anthony Ghol, the young CEO and owner of the infamous Ghol Corp. A main backer of the Protector program.

He was quite the sophisticated young fellow. Held his head strong, emerald eyes focused on the other attendees. Long silky black hair smoothed back, revealing his sharp features and pale skin.

He scanned the room intensely, looking for a someone, when a pair of women caught his eye. One, a tall thin middle aged woman wearing a long black dress, her hair pulled tightly into a tidy bun. The other, a young lady wearing a scarlet red cocktail dress, wild blonde hair pooling over her shoulder. Though they were a fair distance away, he could tell they were related. A grin grew on his face as he realized who they were.

The Slayer's.

Janet Slayer was the CEO of Slayer Industries, a powerful company that seemed to have its fingers in everything. She was a strong, passionate, and dominating women. Her cut-throat Business practices were truly legendary. On top of that, it was common knowledge that she was extremely close to the most important and famous Protector, Star-Hero.

Elaina Slayer, on the other hand, was a different story. Not much was really said about here. The public definitely didn't know anything about her, nor did most of the people there. Anthony, however, had his own way of getting information. Basic details though. He knew she was Janet's niece, and that they lived together. Her parents were buried on a private family lot. She had a rare, yet understandable talent. Lastly, a flame-like scar covered a good portion of her neck and face, though he could see from where he stood that she covered it up somehow.

Straightening himself up, Anthony made his was down the stairs towards them. Calming he approached them, greeting the older warmly. "Ah! Ms. Slayer! Want an honor to see you here tonight. You look ravishing!" He charmed. "Mr. Ghol! I'm flattered that you think highly of and old duck like me!" The older women teased in response. "I was glad to be invited! It's good to take some time off of work every now and again." She finished while eyeing her niece, who rolled her eyes in return. "Have you met my niece Elaina?" She froze in response to hearing her name. Anthony chuckled as  he answered. "I don't believe I have!"

"Well now, we can't have that! Elaina, this is Anthony Ghol. Anthony, this is my niece Elaina Slayer. You kids talk, I need to go hunt down a client!" And with that she was gone. Anthony turned to the young lady next to him. Now that he was closer, he could see her face clearly. Pale ice-like eyes followed her departing aunt. Her skin pale and smooth, and you couldn't tell that she was wearing s synthetic skin patch over her scar. Her lips painted red with lipstick press together in a thin pout, clearly not happy with what just happened. Anthony decided to extend his hand. "It's a pleasure to meet you, Elaina. Your aunt is quite interested." He said politely. She glanced down at his hand, shaking it after a moment of silent debate. "Y-Yeah. Nice to meet you too." Their eyes met for a moment before she looked away, releasing his hand. He smiled at her, trying to make it less awkward. "It's a shame I've never seen you at any of the events before. You look enchanting! I must have done something right for you to come." He cooed. She uncomfortably glanced around a little before she spoke. "Look, I... uh... I just got dragged out to this... no offense! But, you did a good job hosting this thing. Aunt Janet's really enjoying herself."  She backed slightly closer to the food table as she spoke. Anthony, intrigued by her not commenting on his advances, followed her.

"Really? I'm glad. You know she talks about you?" He tested. "Doesn't surprise me." She said as she filled a plate with shrimp and grapes. She migrated over to the wall by one of the plaza windows, leaning against it as she ate. Anthony joined her.
"But... are you having fun?" He questioned. Taking a bite of her food, she pondered over her answer. Finally, after a long pause, she responded. "Alcohol is a little too weak for my liking, and I prefer to party in pants." She said flatly. Anthony laughed for a solid five minutes after that.

This continued for a bit. Anthony would ask a question, and Elaina would give simple but blunt answers. The questions where getting kinda personal, and Elaina was getting kinda tired.

"You sure you wouldn't like to sit down? From what I've heard, your talent is quite physically taxing. Must be exhausting ... God I sorry you have it rough." He offered. She just gave a shrug, she WAS getting tired. He knew he was pushing his luck. Elaina's power was unknown, and he was interested in seeing how it. Just then, an idea hit! Most people take pride in their Talent alinement when it gets brought up... it was worth a try. "Well at least you're not a SUPPORT-TALENT." He tried to smoothly suggest.

At that moment her demeanor shifted as she shot him a look that sent shivers down his spine. She spoke low enough so that only he could hear. "Auntie  likes you, so I'll tell you this once. Mind your FUCKIN mouth." After a moment the mood changed as she laughed. He found himself getting elbowed in the arm, still a little stunned. "Relax! 'Twas supposed to be a joke! God, I'm more tired than I thought!"

With that, she pushed off the wall and walked towards the door. Leaving Anthony startled stiff. After ten feet or so she turned around. "Hell of a party, pretty boy! But next time get stronger alcohol!" She wavers and left.

As he watched her go, he muttered to himself. "So... got a soft spot for one of THEM, hm? Alright..." He turned and walked up the stairs, a wicked grin graced his lips. "I can work with that, my dear EL... I can work with that."

There was a sent of lavender.