of fire and ice

8/14/2019 Of Fire and Ice

1/22

1- Vanessa

It was cold in my dream- unnaturally so. I was sure that if I could see anything at all, Id see myfingertips beginning to turn blue, just like always. The cold stone floor provided me with only thecomfort of knowing that I was grounded- something rare for a dream. I wrapped my arms around my

body and hugged myself. My arms and hands were sticky, with what I presumed to beWell, lets not gointo that.

Id had this dream before- Id lived this dream before. It was far too powerful a memory to berepressed (disappointing, really) and my overwhelming fear of this experience caused it to manifest indream form. One of these days- when I finally had the time- Id go see a psychiatrist who could hypnotizeme into forgetting it had ever happenedEither that or Id hit my head against something really hard. Idecided that if the latter hadnt happened by the time I had time for the former, then Id go see apsychiatrist.

In any case, that didnt matter at the moment. It was funny- Id had this dream so many times that by now I knew I was dreaming. I pulled my knees up to my chest and sat upright- no longer in the fetalposition. My knees ached and my feet were screaming for some sort of blood circulation, but I knew thatif I just held on for a little while longer, Id wake up and be fine again. WellYou know what I mean.

Waiting there in the dark for the moment when I would wake up really made me want to die Just like always. When this had actually happened to me, I tried killing myself too many times to count, but nothing ever worked. Sometimes I hoped that my captor would take things a little too far and just killme himself, but I knew that would never happen. He was too smart- had everything planned out to thevery last detail. It pissed me off.

Then, when I had begun to think that I would never wake up, the sound of approaching footstepsgrew louder until whoever had been walking was standing outside of the door to my cell. I heard thelatch click and the creak of the door swinging open. A dark, low chuckle resonated throughout the cell.

Get up.

I was frozen in terror. My dream version of this scene had never taken things this far. As though avisitor in my own body, I slowly rose to my feet. My legs tingled as the blood rushed to them all tooquickly.

My captor smirked- he was the only thing I could ever see in my nightmare. Slowly he walked tome, taking my chin in his hand. He turned my head from side to side as I grit my teeth and glared at him.

Wake up! I wanted to scream. Of course, it wasnt all that I wanted to do. I wanted to push himoff of me- kick him where it hurts and run as far away from him as possible. However, it was never meantto be.

I love when you get that look in your eye.

My heart rate picked up. I knew what would come next, and I was determined to wake up beforeit happened.

He pushed me backwards, and I slammed into the ground hard. I clamped my eyes shut tight,and when I opened them again, I was staring at a ceiling fan.


2/22

Shit. I mumbled, rubbing my eyes. That was cutting it a little too close. I examined the room Iwas in- beat up and half run down. Not bad considering where I was. The clock on the bedside table wasflashing twelve in annoying red LED lights- bustedI wasnt surprised. But, I knew that the walls to thisplace were paper thin. I reached out with my right hand and knocked on the hard wood.

What? The muffled call came, sounding half awake.

What time is it?

A pause. 1:45.

I frowned. Nice to know that it only took me forty-five minutes to relive my most traumatizingmoment. Rolling over on the tiny cot I was forced to call a bed for the night, I closed my eyes and tried tofall back asleep. I wasnt afraid to dream again- I knew my previous nightmare wouldnt haunt me twicein the same twenty-four hour period. My next dream was less chilling than the lastbut not by much.

I was in a castleThat much I knew for sure. Unlike my nightmare (as I had taken to calling it) Icould see where I was and what was around me. It wasnt as cold, but I could hear the powerful

drumming of rain. Spying a spiral staircase, I followed it up to the roof where I heard the sound of metalhitting metal. Wiping the rain water from my eyes, I wandered in the direction of the sound. I eventuallystumbled upon two men who were sword fighting.

One was clad in a blue trench coat- his platinum blonde hair drenched by the rain, concealing hisface. He swung the katana in his hand crazily with overpowering strikes.

The second wore baggy black pants and a red vest- his hair was also hiding his face, but it was jet black. He had a similar katana in his hands, but was handling it with precision and expertise.

When I thought that they would go on forever, Blue stepped wrong and slipped in a puddle ofrain water. His katana flew out of his hands, and Reds sword pierced his abdomen. A gut wrenching cry

was torn from his throat, echoing off of the castles towers. He crashed to the ground with a resonatingthud that turned into the sound of someone banging on the door to the room I was in.

Reluctantly, I opened my eyes. What? I yelled.

The door swung open- the frail older man I knew as Frank was standing there.

Its eight. He croaked in a throaty voice. Bars opening. Get up and get out. He slammed thedoor behind him.

I groaned. Of course I was grateful to Frank for letting me stay in the upper room of his bar, but Ihated waking up early each day when it opened. Reluctantly once more, I swung my legs over the side ofthe cot and stretched. My cell phone was sitting on top of my jacket, which had been consequently tossedin a corner the previous evening. I snatched it up and checked the time.

6:53.

That lying son-of-a- I didnt finish my sentence- it would do me no good. Instead, I grabbed myrobe and a towel and headed for the bathroom. It was going to be a long day.


3/22

1- Ruben

I was having that dream again- for the third night in a row. It was getting old. I mean, after thefirst time it did get less intense and suspenseful, but come onI dont have that kind of attention span.The rain was painful. Even though I had my jacket on, it still felt as though each drop was penetratingright through and chilling my core. My hair was in my face- dripping wet and getting heavier by thesecond- making it harder to see.

I was holding a katana in my right hand. It felt alien to me, and I wanted desperately to toss itaside and finish this fight the old fashioned way- with my fists.

Giving up so soon?

I laughed loudly and shook my head. Not a chance. I ran in again, swinging the sword wildly,and managed to catch my opponent slightly off guard- slicing his bare arm. He hissed in pain and anger,retaliating with more accurate strikes. I resorted to blocking them with my arms- shredding my coat.

Damn you I muttered, gritting my teeth. I struck again, and we exchanged a massive amount

of blows. Just when I thought I was going to win, I slipped in a puddle and began to fall backwards. Thekatana flew out of my hands, and I felt a sharp pain in my solar plexus. I hit the ground hard- smashingmy head against the stone ground. A dark shadow appeared over me, laughing hysterically.

You lose.

I saw the sword headed for me again. I closed my eyes, waiting for the pain to come againBut itnever did. I opened my eyes again to the comfortable darkness of my office. I coughed loudly and sat up.Immediately, I winced at the pinch in my neck- probably caused from falling asleep on the couch.

Davis! I whispered loudly.

My brother groaned. What?I leaned back to alleviate my back and neck pain. What time is it?

I saw his hand shoot up and make a grab for my leg. I lifted it up in the air so that he missed.What was that for??

He sat up from his spot on the floor, glaring at me and rubbing his head.

It is one forty-five. He said slowly and venomously, carefully enunciating each syllable. Eithershut your mouth andgo back to sleep, or I will gladly do it for you.

I groaned, squeezing my eyes shut. 1:45? DamnOnly forty-five minutes had gone by. I guess I

should go back to sleep

But what I really shouldve done was gotten up and gone down to the Blue Moon bar to drinkmyself silly, like I usually did when I had this dream. Instead, I fell back asleep and took a trip back todream land- not good.

I was in a long, dark hallway with wrought-iron doors on both sides. The air around me wasdamp and musty, so I assumed that I was underground. The painful sounds of screams and cries comingfrom the hallways led me to realize that the rooms in front of me were cells.


4/22

Footsteps sounded behind me, and I quickly pressed up against one of the doors as a dark,shadowy figure strode past me. I sensed a sort of sinister aura about him and decided to trail him. Hestopped outside of the very last door on the left and unlocked the door. Pushing it open, he laugheddarkly.

Get up.

Sitting on the floor was a chick who looked about sixteen. She had long, mahogany hair andmocha colored skin with dark lines- I assumed they were abuse wounds- decorating her whole body. Hereyes were a milky white. She slowly stood up, trembling.

The man I had been following approached her and took her chin in his hand. I did not like thedisgusted and frightened look in her eyes and opted to turning away. I walked back into the hallway andmoved in the opposite direction, hoping to find a way out. There was a light at the other end of thehallway, but before I could reach it I woke up.

Now it was light outside. I winced as the suns rays hit my eyelids. Somebody had opened thewindow, waking me up.

DAVIS!!

I knew letting my younger brother live with me was a bad idea. As soon as I had dumped hisunconscious body on the ground and collapsed on the couch, my gut had screamed at me that I wasmaking a mistake...But that couldve just been because I hadnt eaten. Oh well.

Said brother poked his head into my office, smirking at me. You called?

Why the hell did you open the goddamn window? I demanded to know. What time is it?

He looked behind him. Six fifty-three. You should get up. He left.

I covered my eyes with my arm. The saddest part was he was right- I knew I shouldnt layaround all day with work to be done. I sat up and looked around the small room. My desk was torn inpieces- my chair was too. The three file cabinets in the corner were tipped over and papers wereeverywhere. I realized that my window wasnt open- it was broken. In fact, the only thing still intact in theroom was the couch I was laying on.

I stood up and felt nauseas. Leaning out of the window, I emptied my stomach of mostly bile before spitting and coughing harshly. Davis reappeared in the doorway.

Dont expect me to clean that up, because I wont. He said, crossing his arms in front of hischest.

Shut up. I glared at him. Staggering towards the doorway, I pushed past him and headed forthe bathroom. It was going to be a long day.

2- Vanessa

After my shower, I headed back to my room to get ready. Frank didnt like it when I hung aroundthe bar all day (not that I was crazy about it either) and so I decided to go out for the day. Dressing myself


5/22

didnt take long- it was the suit up that would. My belt alone weighed at least seven pounds- and itwasnt even fully loaded. My nunchakus were missing- Id lost them in my last fight- and my sickle chainwas now just a chain. I usually had three or four large clips of bullets, but now I was down to one. I hadmy trusty glock, but the eye piece to my collapsible sniper had snapped clean off. My vest was too light-it usually had all bullets in the pockets, but those were gone. I pulled my steel toed boots on over mypants and my fingerless gloves with the built in brass knuckles on my hands. The familiar weight wascomforting. Stuffing my cell phone into my pants pocket, I left the room and walked down to the bar.Frank was sitting at a table, drinking out of a half empty Jack Daniels bottle. He looked up at me.

Leaving?

I nodded. You wanted me out of here anyway, didnt you?

He shrugged. Nah. I just dont want you to sleep all day. Never know what could happen.

I rolled my eyes. Whatever, old man- I can take care of myself.

I heard the familiar ding of the bell signaling that the door was opening. Both Frank and I turned

to see who was walking in. A well dressed gentleman strode over to us.

Bars not open. Frank said, taking another swig from him bottle.

Then you shouldnt leave it unlocked. I frowned.

Im not here for a drink. The visitor said. He looked at me. I hear that this is the place to go if Iwant to get a job done.

Frank leaned back in his chair. Sure. Why not?

I ignored him. What do you need, chief?

Im looking for an assassin.

Frank stood up and walked back behind the bar. This is yours, Nessa.

I glared at him. I hated that nickname.

Heres the deal. I told our guest. You pay half up front and half when Im done. I dont dowomen or children and your pricell double each day it takes me. My ante is six hundred for murders.

He chuckled, reaching into his jacket pocket and pulling out a wad of money. I can pay you thisup front and the other half when you bring me his head. Ill gladly double this each day it takes you.

I took the money and counted it- there was three thousand dollars. I whistled softly. Damn.Youve got yourself a deal. Whos the poor sap wholl help me finish paying off my bike?

I know for a fact that hes in town. He handed me a photo of my target. My number is on the back. Call me when youve finished and Ill reward you. He nodded at me and walked out.

I smirked and tucked the picture into my pocket.


6/22


7/22

She sighed. Ill buy you one, then. She nodded to Frank, who refilled my drink.

I owe you one. I said, raising my glass to her.

She said nothing, only sipped from her own glass. She looked over at me. At first I wasnt goingto say anything, but now Ive got to knowDid you get into a really bad fight, or something?

She was talking about my face- my beautiful face that had been scarred by the events that hadrecently taken place. She was talking about the wound that had stretched from the top of my righteyebrow and all the way down to my chin- the wound given to me by my brothers sword that was

beginning to heal quite nicely, as a matter of fact. I shrugged.

You could say that.

She continued to stare at me. How does one obtain a wound such as that?

I emptied my glass again and stood up. My headache had come back and that ominous feeling inmy gut had gotten worse.

Sorry babe, thats on a need to know basis. Confidential information, you see. Im sure youllunderstand.

She said nothing, and I walked out of the bar. I got about halfway down the block before Irealized that I was being followed. Whatever- it wasnt anything I couldnt handle. I turned down a sidestreet, making my way down an alley. Still, my pursuer pushed on. He was a tricky one- stayed hot on mytrail until l I reached into my jacket pocket and pulled out my gun. I felt him stop, and I continued towind in and out of the buildings in the city. I stopped against an apartment building and caught my

breath. The feeling in my gut returned- but not soon enough- and I felt a sharp pain shoot through my leftshoulder. I looked up at the building I was leaning against and saw nothing. A voice in my head told meto turn around, but I was too tired and didnt make it fast enough. A chain caught my wrist. I swore and

turned around to see who was assaulting me. It was the girl from the bar.

Well I knew that I was a good catch but this is ridiculous. I muttered.

She yanked on the other end of the chain and I stumbled forward a step. Easy there. I pulled back and she let go- the chain flew up and nearly hit me in the face, but I dodged it.

Hey, I liked that chain! She yelled at me.

I unwrapped the other end from my wrist and discarded it. Oh well.

I heard the familiar bang of a gun being shot and dropped down to the ground just in time. A bullet whizzed by my head. Jeez, Ill pay my tab!

She shot again- I evaded again. The glock in her hand was a deep crimson color. I somersaultedtowards her, rolling out of the way as she shot at me, and kicked upwards- knocking the gun out of herhands. Her foot connected with my back and sent me tumbling backwards. I hastily got to my feet. Illpay extra?

She threw another kick towards me- this one aimed at my head- and I caught her foot.


8/22

Tsk, tsk. I grinned. I pushed her foot, tipping her over backwards, but she swiftly rolled to theside and got back on her feet.

You just dont give up. I groaned. I really wasnt in the mood for a fight- let alone one against agirl- but it didnt seem as though I had much choice.

She said nothing; only flicked the hair out of her face. A chill ran down my spine when I saw thather eyes were a milky white color.

3- Vanessa

After I had left the bar, I headed downtown to a guy I knew. This guy- Slug, they called him- hadrecords on nearly everybody in the city. If I was going to find this guy, Slug was my man. His place wasthe basement of a tobacco store- dark and dusty as it always was.

Well well well he sneered as I walked down the stairs. Look who it is. Havent seen you

around in awhile.I grit my teeth. I hated coming here. Shut up, Slug. I need to find a guy.

Surprise surprise. I can find this guyFor a price. He cackled, rubbing his hands togethergleefully.

I frowned. You owe me Slug. Remember when I convinced Frank not to stop supplying youwith your fix?

He cursed and glared at me. Fine. Who are you looking for?

I handed him the picture of my target. He squinted at it; then laughed again.

What?

This guy?? Oh manI sure feel sorry for you.

It was my turn to glare. Whats that supposed to mean?

He smirked at me. This guy is on so many different hit listsI think Ive been hearing about emsincelast winter, and nobodys been able to get him yet.

Spare me the details. I snapped. Do you know where I can find him or not?

He nodded and handed the picture back to me. Of course I do. He turned his back on me and began to rummage through a box in the corner. I havent had anyone come looking for him in a couple ofweeks thoughI thought hed finally bitten the dust, but then you come along He chuckled, liftingout a piece of paper. Here we are.

I snatched the paper up from him and quickly memorized the information printed on it.Perfect I mumbled. Thanks Slug.

He took the paper back and put it in his pocket. Anything else?


9/22

I shook my head, beginning to walk out. Thats it.

Are you sure?

Bye Slug

I left his place smirking. I had thought about dragging this job out for a few days but I knew Idget bored of it soon and six grand was a generous amount. I checked the clock on my phone- it wasroughly nine forty-five. Sighing, I decided to stop by Franks bar again to let him know that I was off forgood. When I got there, he had his shotgun out and pointed at someone. I sighed.

Frank, leave him alone. Sometimes I swear to God youre more trigger happy than I am.

The guy turned around and I felt my heart leap. It was him- my target. I tapped him on the arm before sitting down at the bar. Youve got two weeks. I glanced at Frank and nodded slightly. Hewinked in return.

The guy tried to treat me to a drink, but I turned the tables. I ordered the only thing of Franks Ill

drink- iced tea. I needed a scapegoat- something to get him out of the bar and onto the streets. Spying amark on his face, I saw my opening.

At first I wasnt going to say anything, but now Ive got to knowDid you get into a really badfight, or something? I tried my best to sound as clueless as possible to catch him off guard.

He paused, probably remembering the incident that had given him his wound before shrugging.You could say that.

I could already tell that he was uncomfortable, I just needed to push him a little further. Howdoes one obtain a wound such as that?

He drained his glass and stood up. Perfect. Sorry babe, thats on a need to know basis.Confidential information, you see. Im sure youll understand. He exited the bar.

I slowly finished my own drink before standing up. Ill be back. I said to Frank.

Dont play with the poor boy too much. He owes me a lot of money.

Ill pay it.

Sure you will.

I laughed, walking out. I closed my eyes and took a deep breath. He was about halfway down the blockWithin shooting distance, but as soon as I stepped out of the bar he knew I was following him.

But he didnt know I knew that he knewWhich was extremely good for me. I trailed him for anotherthree blocks- he began to wind in and out of the buildings, going down alley ways and crossing streets. Ipulled back and let him get a little further ahead. He finally stopped up against an apartment complex. Ihid on the emergency exit of another building and pulled out my glock. I aimed and squeezed the trigger.The bullet hit him in his left shoulder. I jumped down; grabbing the chain wrapped around my belt andthrew one end of it. I felt it catch on something and I smirked. He turned to face me.

Well I knew that I was a good catch, but this is ridiculous.


10/22

I pulled on my end of the chain, hoping to either tear his arm out of its socket or pull himforward, but he barely stumbled forward. Easy there. He pulled back and I let go, hoping the chainwould take his head off, but being disappointed once more.

I liked that chain. I growled.

Oh well. I heard him say as he tossed my chain to the side.

Grimacing, I grabbed my glock and shot at him. He dropped to his stomach and the bullet barelymissed him. Jeez, Ill pay my tab!

I almost laughed. Almost. I shot at him again but he somersaulted and kicked the gun out of myhand. I mentally swore and hoped that it hadnt been too badly damaged. I loved my glock. I put my footon his back and pushed him backwards. He stood up.

Ill pay extra?

I kicked again- at his head this time- and grit my teeth when he caught my foot.

Tsk, tsk.

He tipped me backwards and I rolled like he had before to stand up again.

You just dont give up.

Speak for yourself. I flicked the hair out of my face and brought my hands up defensively. Thisguy was good- Slug wasnt joking around when he said he felt sorry for me. He didnt seem human tomehe was too quick and too nonchalant about this whole thing to just be a normal guyOf course,when I usually got called out for a hit it wasnt your average thugs, but this was too much.

Look babe. He said, running his hands through his platinum blonde- almost white- shaggy

hair. He looked familiar, but I couldnt put my finger on where Id seen him before I dont know whatyour problem is with me, but youre wasting your time.

I could sense something wrongThere was something about the way he spoke, the way he acted-his body language- that suggested hed seen it all before and just wasnt interested anymore. I didnt sayanything in return. I took a step closer to him and he sighed.

Besides- havent you taken enough beatings for one lifetime? I really dont want to give youanother.

I froze; my blood ran cold. No. A small voice in the back of my head said. Theres no way he couldknow about that. Youre over thinking this- just kill him and go on with your life like youd originally planned.

I listened to the voice and ran in again, throwing a punch towards his nose, but he caught my fistand shook his head. I tried to warn you.

Out of nowhere, his own fist collided with my jaw and I was out cold.

3-Ruben


11/22

I felt bad about hitting her- I really did. But, she started it and I wasnt about to be shown up bysome girl. That was exactly what I told Davis when I dumped her, unconscious, on our couch, but wedont exactly see eye to eye, so he didnt buy it.

What the hell is wrong with you?? He nearly screamed at me, beginning to turn red. She triedto kill you so you bring her HOME? Do you have zero common sense??

I rolled my eyes. Youre so melodramatic Davis. Itll be fine.

He shook his head and retreated into the kitchen. I looked down at the girl on the couch in mylobby, as I liked to call it. I strolled over to my desk and sat down- leaning back in my chair andpropping my feet up on the desk. I closed my eyes, stifling a yawn.

Its not even noon and Im already tired again. I muttered. I needed a nap.

Sleeping on the job?

I cracked an eye open. Davis was standing on the other side of my desk with his arms crossed.

Job? I asked. Give me a break- we just got back last night. Besides, its not like weve got anycustomers. I closed my eyes again and ignored his angry sighs of protest. Before I knew it, I had dozedoff and the hours had gone by- it was dark out. I got up and stumbled into the kitchen.

Look whos decided to be productive. Now that its night, I suppose youll be off to that baragain. Davis snorted.

I ignored him. He didnt know anything about drinking. I leaned up against the counter andheard a crash.

Your little friend seems to have woken up.

I reluctantly went back to the lobby and saw her standing by the couch, looking around with anangry yet puzzled expression on her face.

Where am I? She demanded to know, glaring at me.

Chill, babe. I grinned. Youre just at my place.

She seemed to relax, but was still staring at me intently as though there was something written onmy face. It made me wonder if Davis had done anything to me while I was sleeping.

What? I asked.

She frowned. Wouldnt you like to know?

I was still groggy from my nap, and wasnt in the mood to play mind games, so I groaned. Yes,actually.

She didnt seem to know how to respond to that, and pouted at me instead. YouYou seemfamiliar to me. And now I remember where Ive seen you before.


12/22

I raised an eyebrow. Shed seen me before? Well Id seen her before too. I guess that made us even, but had she seen me in a dream as I had her? I knew that I should find out, but I wasnt exactly ready totrust her yet.

Youre the one from the castle. She concluded, taking a tentative step back. Youre the one whogot stabbed. She laughed at me.

I frowned and grit my teeth. Thats what I was afraid of. Hey missy. I am NOT the one who gotstabbed!

She put her hands on her hips. Then who are you?

I was not about to give up so easily. Who are you? I growled, walking up to her.

She glared up at me and I glared back down at her.

Will you two quit being absurd?

Leave it to Davis to act like we were all old pals.

Dinners ready. He disappeared back into the kitchen.

I looked at the girl, who had seemed to calm down just a bit. I was feeling guilty, even though shehad tried to kill me. Come on. Lets eat. I winked at her, and she scowled.

I led her into the kitchen and sat her down at the small, round table pushed against a wall. Therewas a pot of soup witting on the table.

It isnt poisoned. I said, grinning.

She lifted an eyebrow at me. Why would you poison your own food?

Well, Davis made it. I shrugged, joining her at the table. And hes been trying to kill me foryears.

How youve managed to stay alive is beyond me. Davis appeared behind me, sitting down aswell. He looked at the girl and she quickly averted her gaze. It didnt shock me- my brother tended tohave that effect on people. I heard that my brother assaulted you. He continued.

Hey, she was the one who tried to kill me! I protested.

Its not like its anything personal. She grumbled. Im just doing my job.

This caught my attention. Your job? Was she like me? The demon hunter?

She nodded. Some guy offered me six grand to kill you. How was I supposed to turn that onedown? She shook her head. But youre goodMaybe too good.

Well that was an ego boost if Id ever heard one.

See? Im not the only one who wants you dead. Davis said, as if that was supposed to make mefeel any better.


13/22

So are you going to give up? I kind of like my head where it is. I asked hopefully.

Not that you use it. Davis muttered. I hit him on the arm.

I still dont understand. She said. I watched you die.

Both Davis and I froze. He slowly looked at me. What is she talking about? He asked quietly.

I looked at her. In your dream, right? You dreamt about us fighting that one night?

She nodded. And he, She pointed to Davis. Killed you.

I had that same dream the previous nightThe same night that I had dreamt about her. Whatelse did you dream about that night?

She hesitated before speaking. I think you already know.

She was right- I did know. I stayed silent, though, and let her continue.

So lets not talk about it. She stood. And well go our separate ways.

I stood with her. I cant let you go. I said suddenly, not even realizing what my words meantuntil they had already left my mouth.

She looked at me. What do you mean?

I didnt want her to get mad and try to kill me again- I didnt think my kitchen would be able totake it. So, I took a deep breath and continued. Dont you think that this little dream sequence thingmeans something?

She considered that, and then shrugged it off. What if it does? If I never see you again, whatshould it matter?

Davis stood now. Its a safety precaution more than anything else. How are we supposed toreact if something bad happens and youre not around?

Not that we cant handle ourselves. I muttered. But hes right. I dont think you should go.

She hesitated. Okay maybe youre right. She sat back down. Not that Im concerned, oranything. I can handle whatever life throws at me.

Yeah. Thats why you had all those scars. I said to myself.

Davis shot me a look- I never once doubted that he could read my mind. I was just glad that she

couldnt. We finished our meal and Davis chose to retire down the hall to the room he had claimed as hisown. She looked at me.

I guess we really started off on the wrong foot. She said, looking at me wearily. She held outher hand. Im Vanessa.

I shook her hand. Ruben. Its a pleasure.


14/22


15/22

Dont you ever say that! I hissed. Just the thought of him made my blood boil. I dont give adamn what you think of me, but dont ever compare me to him!

Good enough. He sighed, running his hands through his hair. You can go back to sleep now. I just needed that clarification.

He started to walk away, but I still couldnt get over what he had said. Why would you eventhink something like that?

He stopped, and slowly turned to face me. I could barely see his features in the darkness of thenight, but I could tell that something was wrong.

Davis

Because its happened before.

I felt my heart pang with guilt and a touch of fear. What do you mean its happened before? Iasked him warily.

In an instant, he was in front of me again- this time mere inches away from my face. I meanexactly what I said. He whispered. Hes impersonated you before.

That was exactly what I was afraid of. How many times before?

A few. I could see his eyes clearly now- fire red. It took him awhile to get you just right,though. He looked away from me briefly before continuing. But when he didI was completelyconvinced it was you.

When was this?? I interrupted.

He took a deep breath, eyeing me. About a week and a half ago.

I didnt know how to respond to that. In all honesty, I was terrified.

You I could barely speak. Youre kidding me. You have got to be kidding me. I tired tolaugh, but it came out sounding more like a strangled cry than anything else. I shook my head. Youre sosilly.

Dammit Vanessa! Davis tone was suddenly very angry and violent. Im serious! This is no joke! Why would I do that to you?

I thought for a moment and failed to come up with any good reasons. You wouldnt. Iconcluded.

Right.He gently cupped my chin and looked me in the eyes. Vanessa. Lucifer has beenimpersonating you in order to control me.

I wanted desperately to not believe him- to break away and run back to Franks bar where I could just be me- Vanessa- without Davis or Lucifer, or even Ruben. I knew I couldnt, so I did the next bestthing.

What does he want?


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I sensed his hesitation and saw it in his eyes. Any normal person wouldve regarded his pause asa contemplative one, but I knew better than that.

He wanted me to kill Ruben.

I snorted and turned my head to the side. Well that plan worked out beautifully now, didnt it?

I thought I could beat him. He told me-

You realize what he really wanted, dont you? I looked back at him, but he was looking down. Isighed. Why did you even believe him?

He snapped his head up to look at me. I didnt know it was him.

Oh. I had forgotten about that part. So thenWhat do we do?

He didnt answer me- choosing to collapse on the couch instead. I groaned. Davis!! Im serious-this is serious!

He shushed me. Now nowWe dont want to wake Ruben, do we?

I frowned, sitting down on the floor in front of the couch. Well Im not going to just do nothing.

What can you do? His tone sounded cocky.

I stood. Ill go back.

He shot up off of the couch in an instant. What? He snarled.

You heard me. I patted my belt and my pocket, making sure that I had everything- I did. Thegun he had handed me was sitting on the coffee table. I reached for it, but his hand shot out of nowhereand snatched it up.

I cant let you do that.

I glared at him. Davis, give it back. This is none of your business- its between me and him, notyou.

It is my business. He said coldly. I will not let you go. He cocked the gun and pointed it atme.

You wouldnt dare. I put a hand on my glock and another where my nunchakus typically were.Finding nothing, I grit my teeth and positioned my feet so that my left toe was barely touching my rightheel.

He rose from the couch and stood opposite me, still pointing the gun at me. I dont want to haveto do this.

Youre right. I said. You dont want to do this. I slowly lifted the gun out of its spot on my belt.

Before I could get my own shot in, he fired the gun once- aimed at my right hand. I let go of thegun to dodge the bullet and dropped to the ground. I swept his legs out from underneath him and


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grabbed my glock. I shot at him twice, missed both times, and jumped up onto the coffee table when hegrabbed at my legs. I was halfway out the door when he shot again, hitting my right shoulder. I turned toshoot again, but he was right in front of me. He swung at me with his gun and knocked the glock out ofmy hands. I clicked my heels together and two daggers came out of the tips of my boots. I kicked at himand jumped up, scraping his cheek. I landed and planted another solid kick on his chest, knocking himaway from me. I slammed the door behind me and then I was gone.

4-Ruben

I was woken up in the middle of the night by the sound of gunshots. Pissed, I trudged down thehall and out into the lobby to see what was up.

Davis was standing at the front door holding not one, but two guns. Vanessa was nowhere to befound.

Davis, how could you! I gasped. Where did you hide the body?

He turned around and glared at me. Turn the light on. He ordered.

Jeez. But I did it anyway, walking over and pulling the chain to the light and the ceiling fan. Ilooked over at him and could see trails of blood running down his face. Yikes! What happened to you?

He grimaced and looked down at the guns in his hands. Shes gone.

Vanessa. Did she do that?

He looked up at me- the look on his face was nearly indescribable. It was a mix of realization,fatigue, and sorrow. No. He slowly pushed past me and retreated to his own room. I heard the doorquietly shut.

I looked around. It didnt seem as though any damage had been done to my place- that was good,at least. Seeing as though there wasnt much else I could actually do, I followed suit and went back to bed.

When I awoke the next morning, Davis was sitting on the couch staring at the two guns. One wascrimson and the other was dark purple. The latter looked familiar.

What happened last night? I asked him.

Nothing. He replied automatically.

Davis, the crazy bitch tried to kill me. I said, crossing my arms. I think I deserve to know.

He waited awhile before answering. She left, and I tried to stop her but couldnt.

I swore under my breath. Whyd she leave? I thought we had an understanding.

He said nothing, but I knew that there was something that he wasnt telling me.

Davis

Shes going back to Lucifer.


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Lucifer? What was he talking about? I dont get it. Lucifer as in Satan?

Yes.

He wasnt kidding. I didnt know what to say. SowaitIm confused.

He sighed heavily. Listen very carefully, because Im only explaining things to you once. Vanessa belongs to Lucifer- she is his property and she is returning to him.

Somehow, I wasnt too surprised. I could tell right from the start that she wasnt normal, and thisonly filled in the missing puzzle pieces.

And you tried to stop her by shooting her?

He glared at me. Thats not even funny.

I put my hands up. I was being completely serious. Would I joke about something like this?

Yes.

You know me too well.

He rolled his eyes.

Hey wait. Something didnt smell right. How did you know that? That shes in league with thedevil?

Now that is none of your business. He tried to stand up, but I gently pushed him back down.

Tell me.

He looked amused. Oh? Are you finally stepping up to be the good big brother? How manyyears did it take?

Oh knock it off, Davis. Youre being immature.

Im immature? Well I suppose it takes one to know one.

Davis, tell me how you know that, I said slowly, Or so help me God, Ill-

Youll what? Try to kill me? Ha! He chortled. Weve been there- weve done that, need Iremind you.

It was my turn to say nothing. I looked at him with a softer expression. Davis, please.

He glared at me, but responded nonetheless. Do you remember? When we were separated whenwe were nine?

Of course I remembered. Supernatural creatures had attacked our home- killing our father andtaking our mother hostage. Davis and I had been separated- I was rescued by the owner of a clock shop-and I had thought he had died. I recently learned that I was wrong when he reappeared in the city andchallenged me. We fought long and hard- what his motives were, I had no clue- until he stabbed and leftme for deadBut I wasnt dead. I came back stronger than before and managed to knock him


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unconscious. I brought him back home, hoping to start our family back up again. It looks like I waswrong.

You were saved. He said bitterly. I, on the other hand, was taken to hell by those beasts. Hewasnt looking at me anymore. I was made into Satans personal slave, and I suffered for twenty longyearsBut it wasnt just me being the little servant boyHe trained me- gave me so much knowledgeand power that I didnt know what to do with it all. Then he released me back into this world, buttemporarily. I had an ultimatum: Kill your only flesh and blood. He had said. Kill your brother Ruben,and I will let you go free. He chuckled half heartedly. If only it was that easy.

And Vanessa? You know her from there?

He turned his head to look at me. His blood red eyes- oh so contrary to my light, light blue ones-showed his pain. Thats where she went.

Why?

Because she knows its what he wants. He shrugged. At first I wasnt going to kill you. I didnt

think freedom was worth that priceBut then he tricked me into thinking that he was sheand thatchanged everything.

Wait, wait. I interrupted. What do you mean?

Lucifer has the ability to, amongst others, change his appearance. He impersonated Vanessa inorder to convince me to kill you.

I did NOT want to think about how he convinced Davis to try and kill me. Sure, its not like hewas the first person to try it, but still. Some things are better left unsaid.

And thats the whole story.

The whole thing?

Thats what I just said.

Are you sure?

I promise you Ruben, I did not leave anything important out.

Youre lying.

He said nothing- proving me right.

But I guess it cant be all that important. I sighed and rubbed my eyes. Well! Lets go after her.Where can we find Lucifer?

Davis stood up and looked at me, dumbfounded. You want to look for Satan? He asked.

Well what else are we supposed to do? I guess you can stay here, but Im going to rescue yourlittle girlfriend. I tried not to grin at the look on his face, but I wasnt that strong willed.

He scowled. Fine. But just for the record, you dont go to Lucifer. Lucifer goes to you.


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But then- It was pointless, I knew. His words contradicted themselves on purpose, and I was just going to have to get used to it. So then how do we get Lucifer to come to us?

Davis sighed heavily. WellIt wont be easy.

I did not like the sound of that.

5-Vanessa

As soon as I slammed that door I took off running. To where, I didnt know. I wanted to screamhis name out and rage, but that wouldnt help me at all. I needed something- anything- to go onDaviswords floated through my mind.

Lucifer has been impersonating you in order to control me.

Then it hit m e. Davis hadnt been able to carry out orders and kill RubenSo I was Lucifersother option.

Frantically, I began searching my pockets until I found what I had been searching for. It was apicture of Ruben. On the back was a number.

My number is on the back. Call me when youre finished and Ill reward you.

I pulled out my cell phone and punched in the numbers. He picked up on the first ring.

You have failed me. That voice made my skin crawl.

Please. I gasped, clutching the phone to my ear. I will do anything.

You will return here. The carriage will be there soon. The line went dead. A horse drawncarriage was suddenly in front of me. The horse had three eyes. I got into the carriage and closed my eyes.I promised myself that no matter what, I wouldnt cry.

The carriage stopped. I stepped out of it and into a darkly lit room. He was there, standing withhis arms folded across his chest and a scowl on his face. He was not happy.

One simple order. He mumbled. One simple order that I gave to both of you- and both of youfailed me.

I bowed my head. Forgive me.

Why should I? He hissed. He had a point, I suppose. Get up.

I straightened my back- my pulse was racing. I didnt know what to expect. He strode toward me,long fingers tapping thoughtfully on his chin. Perhaps there is a way to rectify things. Stay here.

He vanished in a puff of smoke, and then returned mere moments later with Davis. I bit my bottom lip.

Now listen- both of you. Lucifer instructed. You are to work as a team to get rid of the otherdemon boy, understand? Maybe then well get something accomplished.


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Both Davis and I bowed our heads. Yes master. We mumbled. It was so automatic it wasfrightening.

If you fail again, I will bring the three of you back here. His gaze sharpened. And you knowwhat will happen after that. He snapped his fingers and we were back outside of Rubens place.

Davis looked at me. Im sorry I had to drag you into this.

It wouldve happened sooner or later. I glumly reminded him.

He handed me my glock, and I smiled. Stay here. Do not do anything unless I instruct youotherwise. He said.

You got a plan?

Thats what I keep telling myself. He burst into the building, slamming the door behind him.

I waited outside- as I had promised him I would- and waited and waited. It seemed as though aneternity had gone by, and I didnt have enough patience to wait any longer. I burst into the building, mygun at the ready, and walked in on Davis and Ruben locked in combat. It was like nothing Id ever seen

before- they were fighting hand to hand with an intense aura surrounding them. Just as I had expected,Davis aura was a fire red, and Rubens was ice blue.

This is it. I thought. One of them will die here today.

You always were a bright one.

Suddenly, Lucifer was right beside me. He was smirking and watching the fight with greatintensity.

One of them will die.

And then what?

That, we will have to wait to find out.

But I already knew. If Davis won, Lucifer would be able to continue doing whatever he wanted. IfRuben won, he would come for Lucifer next. And II lost either way.

I shrugged and waited.

Some say the world will end in fire,

Some say in ice.

From what Ive tasted of desire

I hold with those who favor fire.

But if it had to perish twice,


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I think I know enough of hate

To say that for destruction ice

Is also great

And would suffice.

-Robert Frost

May 29, 2008- June 29, 2008

San Jose, California

of fire and ice

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