Knave of Heaven and Earth

Chapter Fifteen: Poor Souls and Crimson Eyes

Afternoon when a car stopped in front of a small diner in Century Peak. Two youths stepped out of it and entered the diner, while discreetly sniffing out their surroundings. After confirming that there are no suspicious people, they sat down and ordered food.

"I didn't notice before we came here but now I am sure," Harley started the conversation in a hushed tone, sitting facing Beatriz.

Yes, they are the ones dispatched by Damian and Aleister to contact Alex and his friend about the suspect of the mass hysteria incident.

They are here to, first investigate the identity of the suspect and find clues, then secondly escort Alex and his friend Margaux back to the packhouse for interrogation.

Aleister wanted to dispatch his Beta for reassurance but later denied saying that it'll be suspicious if anyone from the two factions caught a whiff of their actions. For this reason, they only let Harley and Beatriz go. Both are competent, strong, and trustworthy for this task so Aleister is somewhat relieved but not satisfied.

"I found traces of many people but I can't figure out where they are. Some are very faint, some are a little stronger, and too few are trackable." Harley finished, secretly sniffing again one more time. Beatriz nodded and followed.

"Most of them have surely left some time ago, the earlier should be a week ago. So it should be true." Beatriz sighed dejectedly, knowing that the Association and the CBA has already trailed behind the hybrid in question.

Yes, before Harley and Beatriz went on their mission the Alpha was forced to inform them about this "powerful hybrid" the Association is looking for. The Alpha planned to persuade this hybrid, which seems to have a good relationship with Alex, and then break from the shackles of the Association. Of course, the two completely understand but Harley was a little dissatisfied.

"I believe so too but knowing that they have left means that the hybrid is not in this town anymore. Should have run away earlier." the guy said before their food came.

After having their lunch, the two quickly went to Alex's house.

Beatriz went to ring the doorbell but after there was no response, she rang again multiple times while stating that they came to pick him up. Moments later, Alex finally opened the door revealing his untidy self. Eye bags, red eyes, unkempt hair, and dull color. He looked dejected and pitiful but still, the two needed to do their mission.

"A friend?" Alex asked confusedly while looking at the two. He didn't have anyone besides Margaux to his knowledge.

"Or someone you are close to like a co-worker," Beatriz asked again patiently, knowing that he too suffered from a good brainwash from the hybrid.

Thinking about it, Beatriz can't understand why would this hybrid make them forget anything about him/her including his friends if Alex and Margaux are truly his friends.

What exactly happened? She can't help but wonder.

Alex racked his brain and seemingly remember that he does have a co-worker at the art studio he is working but he wasn't very sure so he simply replied, "I think I do have a co-worker beside Margaux at the art studio we work."

Having a good lead, Harley and Beatriz ushered Alex to lead him to the art studio he is talking about. If it is true, then there should be an address for that person, then they will check on it. The two excitedly sped up and later reached the studio.

They quickly entered the small studio and asked for the manager. Harley and Beatriz were not disappointed when they were greeted by a chubby middle-aged woman who introduces herself as the manager and owner of the art studio.