Burnt Paiges

CHAPTER NINE: PREDATOR OR PREY

In the distance, a blurry figure stood still, motionless. But he was familiar. Quinn? He had to squint his eyes to be sure.

"Yup that's him. He came to make sure you're safe. He was following you. That's so sweet." She squealed.

"I don't need him. He needs to learn I could do things by myself."

He turned back to face her.

"If I can't use my powers, why are you giving me it? Wouldn't it be a danger? You know, wouldn't I give off unnecessary sacred energy?"

"Huh, yeah, that makes sense. I hadn't thought about that, because once you summoned me, I cannot deny you your powers." Sanya's shoulders slumped.

Maybe if I had my powers, I could get rid of that stupid doctor, but I'll be a danger to Paige, to Quinn.

"Then keep it," he opted, "I'll be alright. Next time maybe."

She could see the disappointment on his face. In the way his eyebrows sunk to his eyes, in the way that the corners of his mouth seemed to be anchored.

"Next time, okay?" She felt his sadness too.

"Next time." He mustered a smile for their good byes.

They exchanged hugs, but Sanya wasn't ready to go. It was like just yesterday he was a God in the form of a handsome young man. She had known him to be benevolent, kind hearted and soft spoken. He was wise beyond his years and most decisions lied with him. Now he's just a helpless little boy with twigs stuck in his hair, knees bruised. Then the vision of him became indistinct, as tears formed in her eyes.

"I'll be watching over you, my sweet God," she raised a hand to his cheek, gently rubbing her thumb against his face.

"Yes, please do."

He took her hand and planted a courteous kiss, on her smooth knuckles. He flashed her a big grin, I'm alright Sanya.

She nodded her head in understanding.

"Okay, step back. Go behind the tree," she said pushing him to hide.

"I'm going to unfreeze everything."

"Bye," he said desperately, one last time.

"Bye," she replied sweetly.

And in a flash, everything was in motion again. The bear was roaring, and Luca could hear the approaching footfalls of his brother, running to the rescue. He held an axe with both hands, up in the air catching the last light of the sleepy sun.

He was screaming as he charged at the beast.

"Run Luca, run now!"

Luca was scared again. Not for himself but for his brother, but he did as he was told. The bear's back was towards Quinn. As terrifying as it was, it was slow on its feet. This is the only opportunity.

Quinn used his momentum to push himself of the bases of trees. Like a pinball game, he climbed. He was proficient and agile in every leap. He was so swift, his sweat hadn't the time to trickle off his face. With every pant he grew enough height. It was akin to the glimpse of a guillotine when you're the one standing in crowd.

He leapt into the air right above his head, screaming as he fell. The chop wasn't clean, but it did the job. The beast's life dwindled in its glassy eyes. Thick blood, richly saturated crimson, painted the freshly white forest floor.

The bear collapse, yielding a thunderous bang. It groaned in pain, as it rolled over on its side. After which its movement seized and so did to the final pumps of its heart.