Darkus 2 - The Beginning of the End

Chapter 11

Ashley Nixon

It took me over an hour to return to the Negova Office. I avoided the main door as usual and sneaked in through a lesser known entrance at the back of the office. Apparently today, it wasn't lesser known.

Rage stood in the corner of the corridor, leaning against the wall. He glanced at me when I walked in but returned his attention to my left. Ms. Kaldyde was standing over there, scrutinizing Rage. It looked like they were conversing just before I entered.

"Hello Ms. Nixon," she greeted crisply. She scrutinized me too.

"Hello Ms. Kaldyde," I gulped.

"I was expecting you with Mr. Blaze here..."

"Um..well..."

"Never mind, enter at different intervals to avoid suspicion. Brilliant!" She cut in sarcastically. I was pretty sure I was going to get into trouble. After a few seconds, she sighed. "Ms. Nixon, I know it feels like we're keeping you captive here, but you know the reason for that..."

"Yes Ms. Kaldyde, I seriously apologize for-"

"Neither the Riasto nor I want to keep you like this. And we really do understand your situation which is why we let you sneak out every night..."

Oh.

"But at the same time, we don't trust the Serene Sapphire nor him for that matter," she continued, pointing at Rage. "Which is why we made sure Lui tailed you guys..."

As if on cue, Lui appeared right next to Ms. Kaldyde. He gave me a half smile.

Pfft, I knew that all along! Sapphire blatantly lied in my head.

I looked at Rage. "Oh, don't worry Ms. Nixon," Ms. Kaldyde spoke again, "He was already aware of it. Which is why he's been so careful while dealing with you."

Ha! So, Ashley, you were the only one who didn't know about it!

I rolled my eyes and added 'how-to-tape-off-someone-in-your-head' in my to-search list.

"I apologize for everything Ms. Kaldyde. I couldn't just sit here not doing anything while my friends were risking their lives for me."

"Fair point Ms. Nixon. From what Lui reported to me, it seemed like the two of you were trying to get the Serene Sapphire's power under control. Now this is something I do not oppose. Also looks like you've discovered new Miracle powers," She glanced at Rage. "But be informed that Lui will still be tailing you guys. I'm afraid you have no say in this matter."

I nodded. Ms. Kaldyde took her leave, giving one last look to Rage. Lui walked up to me. "Ms. Nixon, I had to carry out my duty, hope you understand..."

"Yes Lui, I do. It was probably for the best." I gave him an assuring smile. He nodded and left too.

"About time." Rage commented.

"Why are you here again? I thought our sparring session had ended after you abandoned me at the Ghost Grounds..." A shiver ran through my spine as I recalled the freakish voice that had called out my name. I wanted to forget that presence, if possible, for the rest of my life. A scary reminder why I should never take the Ghost Grounds lightly...

Rage seemed to be looking around cautiously. He walked around the room for a bit as if searching for something or someone. Then he approached me and stood very close to me. "How far is the Negova station from here?" he asked, almost whispering.

"It could take a while. But why?"

"We are going to get you out of here..."

"What? We were outside, like an hour ago!"