Hybrid_Soul

[Little Sparrow]

Twilight;

“The carriage has arrived, Master.” A quiet voice announced.
The room was dimly lit by a flickering fire, which cast its light onto an ornate armchair and onto the sleek black pants and shoes of a tall individual. His glove-clad fingers were interlaced delicately, a fine, slightly tanned chin resting on it. The man’s lips were curved in a curious smile as he lifted his eyelids, long, lash eyebrows masking mysterious, uncommon, blue-flecked green eyes, opened widely in a mad anticipation.
By the striking gentleman was a younger boy, similarly dressed in black pants, shoes and gloves. But unlike the lord, he wore only an un-tucked, plain white shirt with a ribbon in the place of a bow or a tie. His mouth was straight, expressionless and unmoving, while his beautiful, soft blond hair fell down over his face and neck, making him look like an angel fallen from the heavens. But if there was one thing that gave it away, it was his mismatched eyes. The boy’s right eye was a pure, silver gray, while his left was a mysterious indigo blue. The polite, mature expression on his face was something unachievable by a child of this age.
The lord laughed softly and got up off his chair with one fluid movement. He turned his eyes onto the blond and said, “Then let’s go, Kreuz.”
The younger boy bowed to him. “Master, would you not prefer to put your jacket on? We are, after all, going to meet a lady.” He inquired from his employer.
“Very well then.” He allowed, inspecting the flawless white of his gloves as Kreuz bowed and melted into the shadows, disappearing from sight completely, only to return in a matter of seconds behind the lord.
“Here, Master Alessandro.” He announced as he held out the smart, tailed jacket, ready for Alessandro to slip his arms into.
“Kreuz, you know that I am perfectly capable of putting my jacket on by myself, don’t you?” Alessandro sighed, looking at his solemn servant and taking his jacket from his outstretched arms.
“If my lord is capable of doing such a task, then what use would I be to him?” Kreuz asked, making Alessandro smile as he threw on his jacket.
“You would be use to him as his personal friend and guard.” Alessandro replied with a light grin. “Now let’s hurry and go to meet Miss Oraube before the chance is stolen away from our fingertips.” He said, putting a light hand on Kreuz’s shoulder and starting for the oak doors.
“As you wish, sir.” Kreuz replied, walking on with the lord. “And do beware, for the corridor outside is much brighter than your room.” He added as Alessandro’s hand brushed the handle.
Alessandro’s sea-green eyes met Kreuz’s gray and indigo ones. “Thank you for the warning, Kreuz.” He said as he pushed the handle down. “But shouldn’t you be the more concerned one?” a thin sliver of light opened across the floor, dividing the room with its bright radiance.
“No, my lord, I am perfectly fine with the light.” Kreuz replied as the followed his dark haired master out of the room and down the stairs. On the wall was a black banner with an indigo and silver crescent moon on it. It was the crest of the Indeminuit family, the owners of the residence and the nobles of the town.
“Greetings, my lord.” An aged man saluted Alessandro from the middle of the massive front hall.
“Good day to you too, Hawkins.” Alessandro said in a jovial voice, clapping the man on the shoulder as he passed by with Kreuz at his heels. “Please prepare a room for our most precious guest, Miss Adeline Oraube.” He added over his shoulder.
“Adeline Oraube?” Hawkins asked incredulously. “You don’t mean Adeline the Dispeller?!”
“Yes, yes, I do, my dearest Hawkins. Miss Adeline will be most helpful to us.” Alessandro replied lightly with a sing-song voice.
“B-but Lady Adeline is a midday knight!” Hawkins argued. “How would she help us? And Kreuz, what about him? You two are midnight Exterminators!” he cried frantically, desperate to keep his lord out of the mess that he was getting himself into.
Kreuz turned to face the frenetic butler with a calm yet piercing expression. “Don’t worry; we are able to take care of ourselves.” He replied.
Hawkins knew that he had lost. “Very well, master Alessandro.” He said with a bow. “A room will be prepared at once.” Turning to Kreuz, he looked the boy in her eyes with his kind blue ones. “Please, do not let misfortune ensue the young master Indeminuit.” He pleaded.
“I will not let any harm befall Master Alessandro.” Kreuz said, inclining his head towards the elderly butler. “Please rest assured, for there is none that could overpower me in quest for my lord’s life.”
Alessandro threw his dark hair back and laughed manically. “No, no, please, Hawkins. There is none that can overpower an exile of the Indeminuit, and certainly not the heir.” He told his butler. “Now, now, let’s not tarry, the lady is waiting and we must not delay. Come Kreuz, for we have a full night’s work to do.” And with that, he exited the mansion and stepped out into the warm, autumn night.
“The night is a blanket to the eyes of the ignorant, but to those that embrace its power, it is a gift.” Kreuz said as he followed Alessandro out.
“May the moon guard you and the stars shower you with fortune.” Hawkins replied as he shut the door behind Kreuz.
“The train station, if you will, my good man.” Alessandro sang to the carriage driver as he held the door open for Alessandro to swing into.
The driver gaped at Alessandro’s dexterity and liveliness. And also the fact that the master of the Indeminuit mansion had gotten into his carriage.
“Thank you, sir.” Kreuz added as he gently pried the carriage driver’s hand off the door and closing it behind himself.
With one last lurch of the carriage as the driver alighted, they started moving away from the mansion and into the city. The carriage lights suddenly went out, leaving both lord and servant in inky darkness, the only illumination coming from the driver’s lantern up front, casting an eerie light on their faces.
Alessandro’s face was in its usual mad genius expression, the one with the sensation of utter control. “Soon,” he whispered. “so soon until we finally get what we’ve worked so hard for. At last, the many years of work will not go to waste.” The lord shivered with anticipation.
“Yes, Master Alessandro.” Kreuz replied simply, showing no similar joy to his master’s delight.

[Little Sparrow]

Phase One;

Adeline stalked off the train with a puzzled huff, carrying a brown traveling bag and stopping two meters away from the massive, black, steaming structure with her hands on her hips and bag beside her. The nineteen year old surveyed the station by lantern light. It was acceptable, modern and gray, like all other stations. And why exactly had she come here anyways? Oh, right, it was because she had lost her way and taken the wrong train.
Adeline muttered crossly, knowing that she was in trouble. She had no money on her and now couldn’t go back to the main station and take the right train to get to her destination. She was stuck here, in this town called Caelum.
“Now what, idiot?” she muttered to herself, fierce, hazel-green eyes surveying the station expectantly. She flipped her brown hair out of her face, letting it fall back to her waist, where a long, emerald green skirt flowed down, swishing around her ankles.
“My lady, would you allow me to escort you to your employer?” a quiet, boyish voice asked from behind her.
Adeline whipped around to face the speaker, who from his height seemed no older than fifteen, but by his white shirt and gloves, seemed to be a servant, maybe even a butler. She was dumbstruck by how young the boy was, how his blond hair curled ever so slightly, how he seemed so much like an angel. “Huh?” she asked, feeling stupid and awkward. Employer? Wasn’t her job request all the way on the other side of Cruzado at Horologium?
The boy straightened up from his bow, serene, mismatched gray and indigo-blue eyes staring up into her own plain hazel-green ones with an expression of quiet inquest. “Or am I mistaken?” he asked, tilting his head slightly to the left. “And you are not Miss Adeline Oraube, the rumored midday knight?”
Adeline blinked. “Of course I am Adeline Oraube. Is there someone else by that name?” she asked, puzzling about the boy’s mismatched eyes.
“Then I have not made any mistake and you are the one that my lord has employed.” He replied simply, executing another bow to the flustered Adeline.
With a quick glance around, Adeline knew that they were attracting attention quickly. People were casting looks over at them and murmuring amongst themselves. “Uh, I guess so…” she allowed.
The boy nodded. “Then allow me to escort you to my master.” He said, reaching for Adeline’s bag.
“Uh, never mind, I can carry my own bag.” Adeline said quickly, scooping her bag up before the boy could take hold of it.
“As you wish, my lady.” He boy replied as he turned around and walked off.
Adeline started forwards and broke into a quick walk to catch up with the boy. She marveled at his incredible politeness. “Um, what’s your name?” she asked timidly.
“Kreuz.” The boy replied without looking back.
Short and simple. Adeline thought dryly. “How old are you?”
“Fourteen.”
Adeline did an internal double-take at his young age. “Fourteen?” she asked, somewhat skeptically. Sure, he was short, his voice hadn’t broken and he looked like a kid. But still, fourteen was a bit young.
“Yes.” Kreuz answered, suddenly stopping.
“What’s wrong?” Adeline asked as she got to Kreuz’s side and looked down into his face and catching his suspicious expression. She was about to go on when Kreuz thrust his hand out in front of her, barring her way. “Kreuz…”
“It’s an exile pack.” Kreuz told her. “Stay close to me.” He ordered, taking hold of her hand and firmly guiding her though the crowds.
Adeline grimaced. It was she who should have been protecting the boy, not him protecting her, even if he was a subject of her employer. He was a kid. He couldn’t have experience with exiles, not as much as she did. Just as she opened her mouth to complain, there were terrified screams coming from the direction that they were headed in. Kreuz grunted and narrowed his eyes, but kept guiding her forwards, going against the flow of people.
“Kreuz! Where are we going?” Adeline demanded urgently.
“I need to go to my lord’s aid. His request was to bring you to him.” Kreuz answered steely, tightening his grip. “You aren’t afraid of a pack of exiles, are you?”
“But isn’t that where the exiles are?” she cried. It made no sense. They should be taking cover, not running into trouble.
“Yes, and that is where my lord is.” Kreuz said without looking back at her. “I will not let you go for you are safest with me.”
Adeline had no answer to that as the crowd thinned. People were staring in one particular direction, the direction that they were heading in. All of a sudden, Kreuz let go of her hand, sprinting forwards. Adeline grimaced and sped up herself, able to go at top speed now that Kreuz wasn’t holding her hand. She pushed through the crowd, using her bag as a shield and breaking through the ranks of people.
Once she was at the front, Adeline took a sharp breath. Kreuz was right; it was a bunch of exiles. Rough, ruthless exiles, the type that even she couldn’t handle. They were surrounding a figure, a tall figure with unruly, black hair, a slightly tanned complexion and a relaxed expression. Her breath caught as his eyes, deep, wild, beautiful sea-green eyes caught hers and gave her a mischievous wink. Adeline immediately reprimanded herself. She shouldn’t be thinking about someone like him. Someone whom she had no chance of catching. Someone like that would have no interest in an aggressive tomboy like herself. But it didn’t change the fact that he was hot.
His gaze flickered back to the exiles, who seemed half-beast. “And you’re the one that calls himself the lord of the indigo moon?” even their voices were animal snarls.
“Yes, I am Lord Alessandro Indeminuit.” He replied. “And I do not take interest in filth like you.” He waved his hand vaguely at the exiles, receiving a hostile roar.
“And this night, we shall have the pleasure of ripping the last Indeminuit to pieces.” The speaker snarled, before brandishing long, gleaming claws and lunging forwards.
Adeline winced in preparation for the scarlet mess that would come from the beast’s attack, the scream of agony, the sting of iron-scented blood.
A sharp, ripping noise was heard. The exile stopped in midair, with a stunned expression on his face. A blur of movement, a soft tap, the exile spurted blood everywhere, which surprisingly didn’t hit Alessandro Indeminuit.
Adeline’s breath caught as she pinpointed the intrusion. A figure was crouched on the ground, three meters away from the fallen figure of the exile. It was wearing a spotless white shirt, black pants and shoes. It was carrying twin, long hunting blades, gleaming with crimson liquid. The boy had blond hair; he stood up with a graceful motion.
The boy was Kreuz. The previously soft-spoken boy was now replaced by a fearless, flawless warrior. A warrior with a lust to kill. A lust to protect his master.
His master was Alessandro.
Adeline couldn’t believe this. Kreuz had single-handedly cut an exile into ribbons in a matter of milliseconds with a pair of hunting knives. He was a night warrior, judging from his fighting style. Adeline hadn’t seen any sign of weapons on him so he must have been a summoner.
The exiles snarled and roared and all closed in at once. There was no way that Kreuz could take them all out before Alessandro got hurt. Adeline didn’t know what she was doing. She dumped her bag, leaving her hands free. Planting her feet firmly on the stone ground, she thrust both hands out directly in front of her. A warm light surrounded the lord’s dark figure as the exiles leapt in, only to howl and turn away from the light. Alessandro’s expression turned to one of horror. Kreuz was already gone, decapitating exiles. More and more fell by the second, the exiles got more confused, torn between trying to hide themselves from the light, avoiding Kreuz’s deadly knives and trying to reach Alessandro Indeminuit, who was protected by Adeline’s barrier.
“FIND THE DAYLIGHT KNIGHT!” an exile roared out. The remaining exiles, even if their numbers were small, immediately turned out from facing the dark lord to the crowd. Adeline let panic creep over her face as she increased the barrier, increasing the illumination and preventing the exiles from hurting the onlookers.
There was a sudden yell of agony. It stole both the lord’s and Adeline’s attention to the far end of the barrier. There was a sudden clatter and ring. Kreuz was down on one knee, one knife a few meters away from where he had dropped it. There was no exile near him, he was unhurt, not a scratch on him. But his hand was on his left eye, and when he looked up, it was an expression of agony.
“Kreuz!” Alessandro’s expression was alarmed as he called out to the boy. He shot a murderous glare towards Adeline before turning back to Kreuz. He stretched his right arm out in front of him, palm facing upwards and fingers splayed. From his palm sprouted a key, which was a purplish black color and glinted darkly. “Unlock the barrier of light and let the night prevail!” he commanded, taking hold of it and inserting it through Adeline’s barrier.
With a twist, as if he was unlocking an invisible door, swirls of darkness erupted from the key, spiraling around Adeline’s shield and turning it into darkness. Adeline’s jaw dropped, Alessandro had completely disabled her barrier with that key, and his summoner powers were that strong. But why a key?
The swirls of darkness formed a pool over Alessandro. Kreuz stood up, one knife in his hand and the other over his eye, the indigo blue one. Their determined expressions matched each others so seamlessly that it seemed that they were clones. The sight was so amazing that even the exiles could do nothing but stare. Slowly, Kreuz moved his hand away from his eye, exposing the sheer indigo blue, which was a lot lighter than before.
“Go.” The dark essence flew towards Kreuz, right into his left eye. Kreuz didn’t even flinch. As soon as the darkness was gone, an exile leapt. His face was terrifying, soulless red eyes hungering for blood. For a moment, it seemed that Kreuz would be mauled by its terrible jaws, but just before he could make contact, the exile was halted in midair.
Kreuz had grabbed it around the neck. His expression was deadly once more and the darkness of his left eye had return with a supernatural glow. No matter how hard the exile tried, he couldn’t touch Kreuz. He could do nothing to the fearless summoner. All of a sudden, there was a sharp, spine-tingling crack and Kreuz flung the exile away. He was so much stronger than before.
Alessandro looked away from Kreuz and at Adeline, who couldn’t help but stare at him, entranced. “Let it go.” He ordered, sea-green eyes focused and piercing Adeline’s own hazel-green ones.
“What?” Adeline asked stupidly. She was too captivated by the lord’s striking features, his tan, his fine, lean body, that unruly black hair. That deadly expression.
“I said let it go. The barrier.” He said impatiently, gesturing at the shimmering radiance.
“Why?” Adeline demanded, wincing as there were more sickening cracks and howls of pain.
“Because I tell you to as Lord Alessandro Indeminuit, your employer.” He replied. The last word rung in Adeline’s head. Employer… employer… So he was her employer after all. “Wake up, girl, if you don’t let the barrier go, I will disarm you.” He ordered sharply.
Ok, so where’d the charming man go? Adeline wondered as she glared at him and let the light go unwillingly. “And what about the people?” she demanded. “Aren’t the exiles going to go after them?” she snapped back at him.
Alessandro’s answer was only a broad grin. “Thank you, my dear lady.” He said in a coy voice, sweeping a bow and taking her hand at the same time, brushing his lips over the white cotton. “But my dear Kreuz has taken care of all the disturbance.” He added as he stared into her eyes once again.”
“Let go of me!” Adeline snapped, snatching her hand back, but not being able to resist the sea-green eyes, as clear as the middle of the ocean on a sunny day.
Alessandro merely laughed before spinning on his heel to face the messy carnage, with Kreuz standing in the middle of it all. Upon the lord’s gaze, the knives disappeared and he appeared in front of Alessandro, down on one knee and his hand over his heart. “Forgive my imprecision, my lord.” He said.
Alessandro laughed softly. “No worries, no worries, you did a good job, Kreuz.” He reassured his subject, brushing his left shoulder as a signal for Kreuz to get up.
When Kreuz did so, Alessandro surveyed the mass of bodies. “Best to clean this place up before someone makes a fuss.” He decided. Lifting his right hand to the sky, he did the usual dispelling chant. “Spirits of the wilderness, hereby I command you to release the corpse that you have imprisoned and return to the skies, by the power of the night, I release you!”
Every piece of evidence of the slaughter disappeared into dark colored particles and dispersed into the night. The purification was complete, order was restored. The crowd began to thin as there was no more action to watch.
“And you.” Alessandro turned back to Adeline, making her take an involuntary step backwards in shock.
Alessandro snickered. “What?” Adeline demanded hotly, curling both hands into fists.
“Nothing.” Alessandro replied with a playful grin.
Adeline humphed and turned to Kreuz. “Is he always like this?” she asked.
“Master Alessandro acts like himself and no one else.” Kreuz replied simply.
That was a lot of help. Adeline thought cynically. “And what do you want anyways?” she demanded from Alessandro.
“Oh, me?” Alessandro asked with an amused expression. “I want to employ you as a spirit purifier.” He said straightforwardly. “And my lady.”
Adeline spluttered and coughed indignantly. “Excuse me? Your lady?” she glared at him, partly flustered, partly annoyed.
“Oh, excuse me, Miss Oraube, I really didn’t mean to let that piece of information slip.” Alessandro covered up for himself, although the twinkle in his eye told a different story. He meant it, he wanted her to be his lady, his wife.
“No.” Adeline stated. “No.” she repeated. “I am not going back with someone like you to wherever you live. I don’t care if you employ me, I don’t like you and I don’t want to have anything to do with you.” She ranted on, feeling good about herself. That was her best persuasion technique. She’d ramble on and on and the victim would have no choice but to abide by her will.
Alessandro merely smiled. “I live at the Indeminuit Mansion and that’s the best lodging that anyone can get, especially someone penniless like you.” He nodded knowingly at Adeline.
“What?!” Adeline demanded, knowing that at the moment, her capillaries were opening up and letting hot blood rush to the earth.
“You’re penniless, you have no money on you so you’re broke. And you need a job to get money, which is what I’m offering you. A high-pay job, first-class lodging-and host of course-and a chance to get you out of this town.” Alessandro said, ticking off his fingers as he presented each point.
Adeline bit her lip. Alessandro had hit her spot on. She knew that all his points were absolutely valid; he knew exactly what she wanted. She sighed, Fernando would have to wait. She’d take on his job offer and get out of this town. “Fine.” Adeline allowed reluctantly. “I’ll take the job.” She said listlessly.
Alessandro beamed brightly at her, making Adeline’s heart skip a beat once more. What was up with her? Alessandro was nothing much, so why was she feeling like this? “You won’t regret it, Indeminuit Mansion’s a heaven, you’ll love it there. And the job isn’t that hard either, so you’ll really be fine.” Alessandro said. “Now let’s go!” he ducked down and snatched Adeline’s bag from where it was next to her feet.
“H-hey!” Adeline cried as he whirled off with her bag slung over his shoulder. “Wait! I can carry my own bag!” she cried, running after him as he walked off with Kreuz by his side.
“A lady should always accept a gentleman’s help.” Alessandro scolded her with a devilish grin.
“What?!” Adeline growled. “You’re calling me a lady?!” she demanded hotly. Alessandro was definitely wrong there. There was no way that she, a midday knight could be a lady.
“Yes, a very beautiful one too.” Alessandro added.
Adeline blushed even more. “Stop playing around!” she complained. “It’s not funny!” she darted forwards to try to slap Alessandro on the shoulder.
Before she managed to, however, Kreuz caught her arm. “Don’t hurt my master.” He commanded in a soft, but serious tone.
Adeline looked at Kreuz with a puzzled expression. She’d never experienced such intense protection and devotion before.
“Kreuz won’t let you touch me.” Alessandro told her without looking back at her. “He won’t let anything harm me.”
“Isn’t it a better idea to let Kreuz speak for himself?” Adeline demanded sardonically. Her brain was already pegging Alessandro with titles such as “stuck up brat”, “total idiot”, “spoiled wealthy man”, “good for nothing”, “fail of a womanizer” and other names that she associated with his strange behavior. She turned to Kreuz as she waited for an answer.
After a few moments, Kreuz finally realized that she wanted an answer and said, “A good servant should be totally devoted to his master if he is of to be any use at all.” Without looking at her at all.
Adeline was dumbfound again. It was like Kreuz was a shadow to Alessandro, a puppet with its own mind. It was incredible to experience such devotion, and Kreuz’s age of fourteen didn’t help it either. “W-what?” was all that she managed to say.
“We’re here!” Alessandro sang as he swung open the carriage door and held it open for her.
Kreuz darted forwards to take Adeline’s bag and stow it in the baggage compartment on top of the carriage, while Alessandro was bent at the waist, dark hair obscuring his face from view. He was bowing to her.
Adeline’s aggravation with the man sparked even more. She couldn’t even believe that she had actually taken up the job and would be staying in a house with him. But nevertheless, she got into the carriage with an infuriated expression. No, she wasn’t going to give him an easy time. Sure he gave her the job, sure she took it up, but that didn’t mean that she couldn’t do things her way.
She sat on the soft, red cushion of the cozy carriage, realizing that this was the first time she had ever ridden such an ornate carriage. Right, he’s rich. Adeline remembered vaguely as she eyed the lord swinging into the carriage merrily and took a seat opposite her.
“Straight to Indeminuit Mansion please, sir.” Kreuz told the driver as he swung onto the carriage with an animalistic litheness and shutting the door behind him. Kreuz sat by Alessandro, not too close, but close enough to protect Alessandro if Adeline decided to pull a fast one.
Adeline noticed that the carriage was left in complete darkness and the only illumination came from the street lamps outside and the driver’s light. It’s probably because of Kreuz. Adeline decided. He was sensitive to my light, so he must be recovering. And Alessandro too, he was a dark knight.
The carriage was moving along at a comfortable, quick pace with some regular, small bumps in the roads. Caelum had smooth carriages; they were probably the newest models out. Technology evolved so incredibly quickly, but this carriage must have cost a lot. Rich brat. She thought with a stab of annoyance.
After a few moments of silence, Alessandro said, “I’m hungry.” It was a flat statement and had no double meaning. It was so random that Adeline would have just burst out laughing under normal circumstances.
“Hawkins is preparing some steak with salad and potatoes. It should be done by the time we arrive.” Kreuz replied helpfully.
“Ah, that would be good.” Alessandro said wistfully. “Should’ve eaten lunch.”
“Yes, master. It is important to be at top physical condition and skipping meals is not healthy either.” Kreuz contradicted his master caringly.
Adeline just stared at the pair of them. It was like she didn’t exist at all, like she was part of the carriage itself. Maybe it was better that they ignored her; she wouldn’t be in any awkward moments…
All of a sudden, the carriage jerked to a stop, and with a sudden cry, Adeline was launched forwards by the force of the carriage stopping. She winced and braced herself for an awkward impact with Alessandro, or Kreuz intervening, or some sort of action of that sort, but this time, she felt strong, long fingers wrap around her shoulders and slowing her down before she could manage to hurt herself or Alessandro. Or the carriage.
“Whoa, careful, milady.” Alessandro laughed as Adeline slowly opened her eyes to find herself half a meter away from Alessandro’s face.
Adeline let out an embarrassed cry and jerked away from Alessandro’s grip, landing back onto the cushioned seat. “I’m sorry!” she gasped, blushing hard and hoping that Alessandro and Kreuz weren’t able to see her flushed face in the murky darkness.
Kreuz opened the carriage door, saving Alessandro from having to make an awkward comeback. “Come, my lord, I am sure that you are starving.” He said as he held the carriage door open. “Let us not tarry, for the food would get chilly soon.”
“Yes, yes, of course.” Alessandro said in a musing voice as he sprang out of the carriage, thankfully leaving Adeline to come out alone.
“You too, my lady.” Kreuz added as he offered Adeline his hand politely.
Adeline couldn’t muster the courage to say anything or protest, so she placed her hand in his and alighted off the carriage in a lady-like fashion.
Once Adeline had stepped onto the stone walkway, she took a huge sweep of the area, taking in the wide, flat, grassy fields on either side of the path, a constant white noise that sounded like water falling, and the highlight of it all, the massive mansion. Its walls were dark and seemed to give off an indigo sheen, while the roof was clearly black. Despite its darkness, it was a magnificent structure. Alessandro was right, Adeline couldn’t help but admit, this place really seemed like it was a luxurious place to stay in.
“Come, Miss Adeline, or we will be late for dinner.” Kreuz told her quietly as he waved the driver off. Adeline’s bag was beside him, not in his hand, Kreuz had probably anticipated Adeline wanting to carry her own bag.
Inside, Adeline's heart warmed at Kreuz’s consideration and immediately pegged him as the nicer one of him and Alessandro.
Before Kreuz could turn back and wonder if he should pick the bag up or not, Adeline snatched her bag up and smiled at Kreuz. “Thank you very much.” She grinned at him. “Shall we go?” she asked.
“As you wish, my lady.” Kreuz said as he motioned for her to go ahead.
Adeline took the offer gladly and walked up to the doors of the mansion. They were big, shiny and dark, like a mysterious, haunted house. Which is probably was, Adeline thought dimly, a haunted house full of who-knows-what.
Just before she entered, she took a deep breath. Why did I even come here in the first place? She asked herself wryly, before pushing her hand out and opening the door, ready to accept whatever atrocity the house threw out at her.

[Little Sparrow]

Phase Two;

Adeline blinked in surprise. The mansion was surprisingly… normal. The entrance was expansive, easily twice or thrice the side of an average house. It was surprisingly well lit as well. Right in front of her was a big, black banner of an indigo crescent moon with XII, the Roman numeral for twelve on it and a gray cloud behind the lower half of the crescent. She couldn’t help but draw in a breath. Alessandro really wasn’t joking when he said he was an Indeminuit. That crest was the authentic crest, Adeline could tell by the very aura of the strong, hardy, yet silky smooth material. It gave a sense of foreboding and secrecy, a mysterious pride hidden within its proud folds.
Aside from it, everything else just looked plain. The black stairs were carpeted in indigo and lined with gold, the colors of the once proud Indeminuit clan. It was almost pitiful that only one of the numerous tens of dark hybrid specialists were left. But then, the Indeminuits deserved it. They were ruthless, they were terrible, they had their own reasons and fought for themselves. They were selfish power-abusers.
Once again, Adeline was disturbed that she had actually followed that man home. The heir of the terrorist family Indeminuit. Why had she done that? She didn’t know.
“Come, my lady, your quarters are this way.” Kreuz broke into her thoughts once again. He had somehow managed to slip past her and was now shutting the doors on the inky darkness.
“Mm.” Adeline said distractedly as she surveyed the mansion once more. She looked back down at the boy. “Wait, aren’t you sensitive to light?” she asked, hesitantly.
“No.” Kreuz answered as he walked to the steps, subtly signaling Adeline to follow.
“Then why…?” she asked.
“It’s complicated to explain. But your light wasn’t natural light and it was aimed towards exiles and dark hybrids.” Kreuz cut her off gently.
“Oh.” Adeline said awkwardly. It made sense, why didn’t she think of it before? Kreuz never did speak much. She noticed. Even to Alessandro, she realized happily.
She followed Kreuz down the corridor on their left, which was darker than the brightly lit entrance hall, but more ornate. Here, there were paintings of animals, large animals like wolves and panthers, and in one case, a dragon. Adeline shuddered. Every single picture was set in the night, in a night with an indigo crescent moon, and on each animal, the golden XII was found on some place of their body, the exact same print and tint as the one on the Indeminuit crest. Each featured power and strength and control, each showed a world of darkness, a world where the night ruled the day.
Adeline turned her head from the pictures exasperatedly. They were so arrogant and pointless. There was no way that such a world of terror could actually exist at all. Too many people would protest and overthrow the Indeminuits, so why was she even bothered about it?
“We are here, my lady.” Kreuz announced as he pushed open a door.
“Oh, thanks…” Adeline said as she looked to Kreuz to thank him. He was standing there quietly, just outside her room, waiting for her to comment or step inside, but making no haste or pressure her in.
Adeline smiled wanly. It couldn’t be that bad. Without a backwards glance, she stepped nearer to the room.
Her first thought was; it’s huge. And after that, came shock. For a dark, mysterious, creepy mansion, the room was blinding. Its walls were white, perfect, pure, almost luminous white, it was like a room taken straight out of a daylight hybrid’s mansion. The room was also huge, huger than the mansion seemed to be able to contain. It was both long and wide and the four-poster bed looked like nothing compared to the size. The room was lit by a massive, glittering chandelier with shards of clear, refractive material, either glass or diamond, surrounding some kind of light source. Little threads of gold interwoven into the lush carpet sparkled, getting dimmer as the darkness seemed to press in from the large windows, taller and wider than Adeline was. The wardrobe was huge, almost too huge for a regular job and normal civilian, it was fit for a duke or duchess, a lord or lady, but this belonged to her; hers, all hers.
It would have been paradise if Adeline didn’t recognize this place. It was Lady Midiluire’s bedroom, a global wonder and artifact, belonging to the Midiluire clan, which was terminated by a bombing of the Midiluire mansion. The murder was coordinated so well that every single Midiluire was killed at the exact same moment, the lady, the lord and their children, all at once. No one knew who did it, no one knew why, all they knew was one moment every thing was nice peaceful and prosperous, the next second, everything was chaos, every single Midiluire was annihilated and there was a mass of confusion. Everyone took shelter, but there was not another death that whole day. It was an enigmatic murder that not even the best had been able to solve.
Adeline shuddered at the ironic scene in front of her. The room was eradicated about six months ago, the very same room was standing right in front of her. Every detail was so perfect, like it was mocking her, mocking the world. It was as if the room had never been destroyed in the first place and instead, moved here.
Adeline’s anger for the man sparked again as a burning inferno, an icy cold wind of bitterness and a lust to end. The horrible feeling of adrenaline was surging through her veins, threatening to explode like a child’s outburst when he is unfairly revoked of his rights.
What right did he, Alessandro Indeminuit have to go steal one of the most exotic wonders of the light hybrids? He was an imbecile, a vulgar, perverse imbecile. A dark knight!
“Is it to your satisfaction?” Kreuz asked flatly, once more breaking through Adeline’s thoughts in the crude, firm way that he always did. This time, however, Adeline was sure that she had heard an ever so slight hint of panic in his voice.
It wasn’t the boy that did this. Don’t take it all out on him. Adeline told herself through gritted teeth. It wasn’t his fault. It was that brat.
“Yes.” Adeline said, voice dripping with sarcasm. She opened her mouth to start her rant once again, but before she could utter a sound, Kreuz interrupted her.
“Very well, I shall related this news to my lord at once.” He said, before becoming completely invisible, swallowed up by the shadows.
“Hey, wait!” Adeline started. It was futile and she knew it. Kreuz was already gone. She’d have to go complain to Alessandro by herself. Get over it, Adeline, you were prepared for anything. She told herself as she mustered up her courage and crossed the threshold (gold lined, by the way) and entered the legendary room that once belonged to the famed Midiluire queen’s bedroom.
As Adeline expected, the carpet was soft. She could even feel it through her boot-clad feet as she walked on the cream material hesitantly, afraid that her shoes would leave dirt tracks in its perfect coat, but of course, the standard was above her. The carpet showed no sign that she had ever walked on it or it had ever been trodden on, and once inside the room, it was overwhelming.
The room itself seemed to be a drug, a stimulant. It totally captivated her. She didn’t think it was strange that this room was here, that anything ever mattered, that she was the most worthy to be in this room, it belonged to her, not anyone else, not Lady Midiluire, not Alessandro. She ran her fingers over the smooth wall, so smooth that it seemed to be made out of marble.
The carpet, so soft that it appeared to be softer than silk, yet stronger than steel.
The bed, how it was so comfortable, like a bird’s soft, inner feathers wrapped around her as she lay down in it.
The doors and taps lined with gold and richness, the washing tub and basin and toilet all made out of the finest, flawless marble, so smooth, so unreal.
Alessandro was right. This was first class lodging. Adeline was so glad that she had taken the job, all too glad. Alessandro was right, she wouldn’t be suffering and she could get back on that train and get to Horologium…
Alessandro.
That thought brought her back to the real world. She was in his house and being captivated by this room. Adeline immediately grew hot and flushed in both embarrassment and anger. Was it Alessandro’s plan to captivate her with this mystical room? Did he think he would make her stay this way?
If Adeline knew that Alessandro and Kreuz or any other servants in this mansion wouldn’t come running if she screamed, she would have. That devious dark knight was really going overboard. Recreating one of the most powerful families of the entire Cruzado’s queen bedroom was a crime almost serious enough to be death sentenced to.
I will tell him that I’m leaving once I have the money to. Adeline made up her mind as she stalked to the door angrily. I’ll make him pay for forcing me to come here to work for him. The authorities will definitely believe me and not him. I’m a daylight knight and he’s a dark lord who comes from a family known for terrorist attacks.
Adeline stopped short. Suddenly, the corridor seemed much lighter than it did before. But she had only been gone for a few moments. And she was sure that she hadn’t seen any light switches around. She swept a cautious look around, looking for any servants lurking somewhere, seeking to surprise her. But after determining that there were no other living beings around besides herself, she took a tentative step out of the room, immediately noticing that the carpet out here was tougher and not as fine.
She shook her head, determined not to look at the obnoxious paintings and rather focus on getting to her destination; the end of the corridor. Or the start, depending on which perspective you looked at it from.
“Alright.” Adeline muttered to herself as she reached the banister. “According to logic, the dining room would be down there.” She trailed her hand along the banister as she stepped down from step to step slowly, like a mechanical zombie. “And down that way.” She muttered as she spun toward the left and continued down, passing under the stairs and into another corridor, also decorated by paintings, but this time, of actual people. Leonardo Indeminuit, Lady Antoinette, Seth Indeminuit, Lady Felicia, Zechariah Indeminuit, Lady Valeria, Benjamin Indeminuit and Lady Sophia. All the heads of the house, all deceased. But before Adeline managed to get any more, she caught sight of a door, just at the edge of her peripheral vision.
“Ah hah!” She said triumphantly, crossing her arms and staring at the door. “I found you!” She grinned, pointing at it as if she was a cat cornering its prey. “No you can’t hide from me, I am a daylight knight!” She cackled happily, pushing open the door and revealing the huge dining room with the elegant mahogany table in the middle of it.
Alessandro was sitting at one of the ends, at the one facing the door. And he was looking right at her. Kreuz was standing by him, his face as calm as always. But he wasn’t eating. Maybe he had already eaten.
“Ah, hello, Adeline.” Alessandro greeted her with a nod, gesturing to the only other set spot, which happened to be opposite him.
Adeline eyed the table suspiciously. The dishes were made of white porcelain, while the cutlery looked suspiciously like gold-plated silver. The placemats were made of white linen, also interwoven with golden threads. Gold seemed to be the ultimate theme in this household.
“Go on, inanimate objects don’t bite.” Alessandro prompted with an amused light in his indigo eyes.
“I know that!” Adeline snapped with an unpleasant glare as she stalked towards the plush chair and sat down with a huff. She knew that she was behaving like a little kid right now, but it wasn’t like she cared.
“Dinner is served!” A sweet voice sang.
Adeline immediately turned to look at the voice that had spoken. Before she managed to locate the voice, the odor of the steak hit her. It was a physical force that seemed to thrust her backwards and send her mind reeling with the sweet savor of grilled beef. Adeline blinked in effort to catch sight of the female voice.
“Good evening, Miss Adeline!” The cheerful voice called out again. This time, Adeline was able to catch sight of the smiling, sapphire-eyed girl. She had long, elegant curls in the shade of dark chocolate, contrasted beautifully by her white apron and periwinkle-blue, knee length dress. She was carrying two white plates, both steaming hot with juicy, golden brown steaks, potatoes and lush, green salad.
“Today’s menu is steak with potatoes and salad and red wine to drink. It’s not very much but I hope it is to your satisfaction.” She continued cheerfully as she replaced the empty plate with the full one. “Oh, by the way, I’m Annaliesa, but call me Lisa, the best cook that you can get in the whole of Cruzado. Pleased to serve you.” She rattled on with a smile.
Somehow all the staff that served Alessandro looked a bit too young to be of legal age. Lisa looked like she was sixteen at the oldest. “Uh, ok… thank you.” Adeline replied awkwardly as she looked down at her food.
“No problem, you’re welcome!” Lisa sang in her cheerful, musical voice as she bounded over to Alessandro. “And you, Alessandro, will get a double helping since you oh-so-thoughtfully decided to skip the pork roast that I had prepared for this afternoon!” She added huffily as she set the plate down in front of her employer with a pout.
“I’m sorry, Lisa, I just didn’t feel very hungry that afternoon.” Alessandro apologized with a sheepish smile. “But thank you anyways for the extra portion.” He added sincerely.
To Adeline’s surprise, Lisa bent forwards and jabbed her finger into Alessandro’s chest. “I seriously hope that you’re sorry, you had better be. Otherwise, I will never ever make you a midday meal again. Ever.” She snapped in the same childish tone.
When Adeline looked up in surprise as Kreuz never intervened, she noticed that he wasn’t even there in the first place. Where had he disappeared off to? And how did he pull those stunts anyways?
Alessandro blinked. For once, his face actually displayed a mild expression of fear. “I’m really sorry, Lisa. I truly am! You see, my excitement made me forget about my hunger.” He explained, a honest, innocent light in his eyes.
“Hmph!” Lisa humphed as she let Alessandro go. “Blame it all on the lady. You are such a gentleman, aren’t you, Alessandro?!” she complained good-naturedly. Spinning around, she met Adeline’s eyes again. “Oh, don’t mind Alessandro, he can be such an uncaring man at times. But he’s always like that, so don’t mind him, ok? If he ever does anything bad to you, come tell me, ok? Then I’ll really teach him a lesson!” she said cheerfully with a sly wink. “Alright, you two, you must be starving so I’ll leave you to your feast!” and with that, she was gone.
Adeline blinked. The sudden appearances and disappearances of the Indeminuit household were strange. She couldn’t help but wonder if there was anything suspicious going on around here.
“Go ahead and start.” Alessandro said, breaking through her thoughts. “There’s no need to wait.” He himself had not even moved a muscle. He had a perfect posture; straight back, hands folded neatly and waiting for her to begin.
Adeline felt herself blush as she felt his eyes upon her. This was the first time that she had been alone with a guy at his house at his dinner table. And especially a noble. This was awkward, but she was determined to make the best out of the situation. Steeling herself, she picked up the fork and knife, one in each hand and began to start slicing up the steak to make it easier for herself. Apparently, Alessandro was satisfied with this as there were rhythmic clinks of metal against porcelain as he worked to cut up his own steak.
Dinner was a quiet affair. No doubt the food was the best that Adeline had ever tasted, but even so, she was still suspicious of the dark lord. She tried to eat as quickly as possible, so that she could rid herself of his presence and go retire to the forbidden Midiluire bedroom, where Alessandro wouldn’t dare bother her.
Alessandro.
That thought brought her back to the real world. She was in his house and being captivated by this room. Adeline immediately grew hot and flushed in both embarrassment and anger. Was it Alessandro’s plan to captivate her with this mystical room? Did he think he would make her stay this way?
If Adeline knew that Alessandro and Kreuz or any other servants in this mansion wouldn’t come running if she screamed, she would have. That devious dark knight was really going overboard. Recreating one of the most powerful families of the entire Cruzado’s queen bedroom was a crime almost serious enough to be death sentenced to… actually it was serious enough to be death sentenced to.
I will tell him that I’m leaving once I have the money to. Adeline made up her mind as she stalked to the door angrily. I’ll make him pay for forcing me to come here to work for him. The authorities will definitely believe me and not him. I’m a daylight knight and he’s a dark lord who comes from a family known for terrorist attacks.
Adeline stopped short. Suddenly, the corridor seemed much lighter than it did before. But she had only been gone for a few moments. And she was sure that she hadn’t seen any light switches around. She swept a cautious look around, looking for any servants lurking somewhere, seeking to surprise her. But after determining that there were no other living beings around besides herself, she took a tentative step out of the room, immediately noticing that the carpet out here was tougher and not as fine.
She shook her head, determined not to look at the obnoxious paintings and rather focus on getting to her destination; the end of the corridor. Or the start, depending on which perspective you looked at it from.
“Alright.” Adeline muttered to herself as she reached the banister. “According to logic, the dining room would be down there.” She trailed her hand along the banister as she stepped down from step to step slowly, like a mechanical zombie. “And down that way.” She muttered as she spun toward the left and continued down, passing under the stairs and into another corridor, also decorated by paintings, but this time, of actual people. Leonardo Indeminuit, Lady Antoinette, Seth Indeminuit, Lady Felicia, Zechariah Indeminuit, Lady Valeria, Benjamin Indeminuit and Lady Sophia. All the heads of the house, all deceased. But before Adeline managed to get any more, she caught sight of a door, just at the edge of her peripheral vision.
“Ah hah!” She said triumphantly, crossing her arms and staring at the door. “I found you!” She grinned, pointing at it as if she was a cat cornering its prey. “No you can’t hide from me, I am a daylight knight!” She cackled happily, pushing open the door and revealing the huge dining room with the elegant mahogany table in the middle of it.
Alessandro was sitting at one of the ends, at the one facing the door. And he was looking right at her. Kreuz was standing by him, his face as calm as always. But he wasn’t eating. Maybe he had already eaten.
“Ah, hello, Adeline.” Alessandro greeted her with a nod, gesturing to the only other set spot, which happened to be opposite him.
Adeline eyed the table suspiciously. The dishes were made of white porcelain, while the cutlery looked suspiciously like gold-plated silver. The placemats were made of white linen, also interwoven with golden threads. Gold seemed to be the ultimate theme in this household.
“Go on, inanimate objects don’t bite.” Alessandro prompted with an amused light in his indigo eyes.
“I know that!” Adeline snapped with an unpleasant glare as she stalked towards the plush chair and sat down with a huff. She knew that she was behaving like a little kid right now, but it wasn’t like she cared.
“Dinner is served!” A sweet voice sang.
Adeline immediately turned to look at the voice that had spoken. Before she managed to locate the voice, the odor of the steak hit her. It was a physical force that seemed to thrust her backwards and send her mind reeling with the sweet savor of grilled beef. Adeline blinked in effort to catch sight of the female voice.
“Good evening, Miss Adeline!” The cheerful voice called out again. This time, Adeline was able to catch sight of the smiling, sapphire-eyed girl. She had long, elegant curls in the shade of dark chocolate, contrasted beautifully by her white apron and periwinkle-blue, knee length dress. She was carrying two white plates, both steaming hot with juicy, golden brown steaks, potatoes and lush, green salad.
“Today’s menu is steak with potatoes and salad and red wine to drink. It’s not very much but I hope it is to your satisfaction.” She continued cheerfully as she replaced the empty plate with the full one. “Oh, by the way, I’m Annaliesa, but call me Lisa, the best cook that you can get in the whole of Cruzado. Pleased to serve you.” She rattled on with a smile.
Somehow all the staff that served Alessandro looked a bit too young to be of legal age. Lisa looked like she was sixteen at the oldest. “Uh, ok… thank you.” Adeline replied awkwardly as she looked down at her food.
“No problem, you’re welcome!” Lisa sang in her cheerful, musical voice as she bounded over to Alessandro. “And you, Alessandro, will get a double helping since you oh-so-thoughtfully decided to skip the pork roast that I had prepared for this afternoon!” She added huffily as she set the plate down in front of her employer with a pout.
“I’m sorry, Lisa, I just didn’t feel very hungry that afternoon.” Alessandro apologized with a sheepish smile. “But thank you anyways for the extra portion.” He added sincerely.
To Adeline’s surprise, Lisa bent forwards and jabbed her finger into Alessandro’s chest. “I seriously hope that you’re sorry, you had better be. Otherwise, I will never ever make you a midday meal again. Ever.” She snapped in the same childish tone.
When Adeline looked up in surprise as Kreuz never intervened, she noticed that he wasn’t even there in the first place. Where had he disappeared off to? And how did he pull those stunts anyways?
Alessandro blinked. For once, his face actually displayed a mild expression of fear. “I’m really sorry, Lisa. I truly am! You see, my excitement made me forget about my hunger.” He explained, a honest, innocent light in his eyes.
“Hmph!” Lisa humphed as she let Alessandro go. “Blame it all on the lady. You are such a gentleman, aren’t you, Alessandro?!” she complained good-naturedly. Spinning around, she met Adeline’s eyes again. “Oh, don’t mind Alessandro, he can be such an uncaring man at times. But he’s always like that, so don’t mind him, ok? If he ever does anything bad to you, come tell me, ok? Then I’ll really teach him a lesson!” she said cheerfully with a sly wink. “Alright, you two, you must be starving so I’ll leave you to your feast!” and with that, she was gone.
Adeline blinked. The sudden appearances and disappearances of the Indeminuit household were strange. She couldn’t help but wonder if there was anything suspicious going on around here.
“Go ahead and start.” Alessandro said, breaking through her thoughts. “There’s no need to wait.” He himself had not even moved a muscle. He had a perfect posture; straight back, hands folded neatly and waiting for her to begin.
Adeline felt herself blush as she felt his eyes upon her. This was the first time that she had been alone with a guy at his house at his dinner table. And especially a noble. This was awkward, but she was determined to make the best out of the situation. Steeling herself, she picked up the fork and knife, one in each hand and began to start slicing up the steak to make it easier for herself. Apparently, Alessandro was satisfied with this as there were rhythmic clinks of metal against porcelain as he worked to cut up his own steak.
Dinner was a quiet affair. No doubt the food was the best that Adeline had ever tasted, but even so, she was still suspicious of the dark lord. She tried to eat as quickly as possible, so that she could rid herself of his presence and go retire to the forbidden Midiluire bedroom, where Alessandro wouldn’t dare bother her.
The second she was done with her food, Alessandro’s voice rang out. “So, you’re satisfied with your room?” he asked. His voice was gentle and pleasant, like he was making an effort to gain her trust and strike a conversation. Even his face was as mild and pleasant as his voice was, as if he truly cared about her.
“Y-yes.” Adeline stammered, caught off-guard by the sudden question.
“Ah, that’s good. So Kreuz really did tell me the truth.” Alessandro mused to himself.
“And speaking of Kreuz, where is he?” Adeline interjected sharply, glad to be on the subject of his faithful manservant. She would find out if he was really abusing the boy and if he even had a legitimate reason for his sudden disappearance. She watched his face closely, hoping for some sign to see that he was disturbed about this subject.
To her disappointment, Adeline saw nothing of that sort. Instead, Alessandro’s expression changed into a lighter mood. “Ah, Kreuz is off to run an errand for me.” He said cheerfully. “Since you’re already here, I’ve asked him to inform some good friends of mine. They are part of the job which only a highly skilled daylight knight could do.” He added.
“And that would be…?” Adeline prompted, somewhat eager to find out what exactly this man had in store for her.
“You’ll see.” Alessandro replied enigmatically. “You’ll be quite enthusiastic about the job.” He informed her with a knowing smile.
Adeline gave him a black look. “How would you know?” She demanded suspiciously.
“I have my sources, don’t I, Lisa?” Alessandro asked the cheerful cook that had popped up once again to clear their dishes.
“Alessandro, Alessandro. Seriously, what am I going to do with you?” Lisa sighed playfully. “You should really stop scaring your new recruit. Especially since she’s from a whole new culture compared to yourself.” She shook her head as she smoothly cleared away their dishes. “Don’t worry, Alessandro means no harm, although it doesn’t look like it. You’ll be fine, dear. Why don’t you go up to have a rest?” Lisa asked kindly as she sashayed over to pick up her dishes.
“Uh, thanks…” Adeline replied uncertainly. Lisa certainly seemed younger than she was, yet seemed to be so full of advice.
Lisa gave her an encouraging nod. “Go ahead, you’ve got a hectic day ahead of you.” She said. “’Night, dear.”
“Mm…” Adeline mumbled obliviously. Her travel weariness was starting to overcome her now. The bed suddenly seemed so welcoming…
“Alessandro!” Lisa turned onto the man sharply.
“Huh?” He asked, jolting upright again and blinking cluelessly. The look was enough to make Adeline smile.
“Bid Adeline good night.” She ordered firmly.
“Uh, yeah, sorry.” He shot an agonized look at Lisa before turning to Adeline. “Good night.” He said shortly, like he wasn’t quite sure how he should treat Adeline.
“Good.” Lisa allowed. “Good night, both of you.” She said before disappearing off to the kitchen.
Taking that as her signal to leave, Adeline rose out of her chair, turning on her heel and stalking out of the door, not even bothering to bid Alessandro good night. Dark hybrids didn’t need as much sleep as light hybrids did.
The last thing Adeline remembered was falling onto a soft, comfortable surface and pulling a coverlet over herself. Then, sleep enveloped her and she fell into a deep, weary slumber.

[Little Sparrow]

Phase Three;

The next thing she knew, light was streaming in through the windows. The whole room was filled with a burning radiance that seemed to swallow everything else up.
Adeline groaned and rolled over. That was the first good sleep she’d ever had in a long, long time and she didn’t ever want it to end…
“Wake up, miss!” a quiet, polite voice called from somewhere in the depths of her mind. “Miss! It is time for you to awaken!” The voice called again, this time with a bit of worry.
Who was that? She didn’t know. Maybe the voice was just a figment of her imagination. After all, Adeline didn’t recognize the voice at all.
“Lady Adeline! You must arise now!” the voice insisted as an uncertain hand brushed her shoulder. “Oh dear…” it muttered again, quite alarmed.
“What’s wrong Lily?” another voice interjected. It was also female, but it had more of a lively tone to it.
“Miss Adeline will not wake up!” the distressed voice whimpered.
“Huh! Let me try…” The second voice decided. Through her half-conscious mind, Adeline could sense a presence drawing closer. It had the same energy and wit as the second voice, but there was a strong presence of darkness as well.
“No, mistress Hannah! You mustn’t!” The first voice cried out fearfully.
“Nah, don’t worry, Lily, nothing’s wrong.” The one called Hannah shrugged the warning off carelessly.
“No! Mistress Adeline has-”
Suddenly, Adeline felt a hand on her neck and then, all of a sudden, a dark energy was flowing into her and stimulating her muscles. All of a sudden, Adeline’s eyes snapped open to see a face right above hers.
A curtain of dark locks fell down, framing a pixie-like face which was smiling at her with an expression somewhere in between mischief and greeting. A pair of amethyst crystal orbs was staring down at her delightfully.
“-a very sensitive imagination!” Lily finished helplessly.
Adeline’s mind froze. There was some kind of strange girl who could be Alessandro’s sister staring at her, another unknown person in the room, and she was in a dark hybrid’s home. The first thing she did when she opened her mouth was to let out a long, ear-piercing scream.
“OW!” The girl shrieked and leapt away from Adeline, covering her ears, not looking sorry at all.
“ADELINE!” two male voices yelled as the door to the bedroom was flung open. Alessandro’s was the only one that she could recognize.
Adeline immediately stopped. She had received a bit too much attention. There were three strange people in the room, excluding Alessandro. Two of them had purple eyes and the other had green eyes. One was male, the other two were female.
Could life get any stranger?
Before the pause got too long to be awkward, the strange man turned to the girl that had previously been standing over her. “Hannah Mitternacht!” the man growled, narrowing his eyes.
“What?” The girl glared back defiantly.
“I’ve told you that you shouldn’t run around trying to bother Miss Oraube, didn’t I?” he demanded frustratedly.
“What about it? I wasn’t bothering her, I was doing Lily a favor!” Hannah Mitternacht retorted evenly.
“Right.” The man scoffed, turning to the timid, green eyed girl. “Lily?” he asked her in a softer, kinder tone.
The girl looked away uncomfortably. “Um…” she muttered, looking to Alessandro for help.
“Adeline refused to get up!” Hannah backed the girl up instantly.
“Hannah!” The man whirled around and snapped at the girl again.
“Don’t call me that!” Hannah snarled. “I’ve told you before, I go by Hans.” She spat. “Now get it right!”
“I don’t care!” The man retorted.
“Hey, Adeline.” A low, calm voice suddenly spoke from Adeline’s right.
“Huh?” Adeline blinked, turning to see Alessandro’s apologetic smile.
“Don’t mind them.” He said. “Good morning, by the way. That’s Lily over there, I take it that Hans was the one that woke you up?” He asked softly with a speck of amusement.
Adeline nodded. “Yeah.” She said as she focused on the timid girl. Lily looked like the type of person that wouldn’t hurt a fly. Her green eyes were wide with shock and meekness.
“Ah, right, I should probably stop them.” Alessandro realized with a sigh. Pulling himself upright, he took a deep breath. “Hans, Vince!” he called firmly.
“What?” Hannah demanded, whirling onto the taller man as he called her name.
Now, Adeline was finally able to get a good view of the girl. Her dark waves lightly brushed her slim shoulders as they were covered by a black, sleeveless top. Its buttons were silver and it continued down to her hips, where from then on, it cascaded down in folds of a translucent material. Her legs were mostly covered by a pair of white boots, which reached up to about mid-thigh length, while a pair of shorts—somewhere in between shorts and panties—covered her hips. The classic teenage fashion by dark hybrid designers known as Lullaby.
“Really, Hans, where’ve your manners gone?” the man referred to as Vince scolded.
“I should be asking you the same question. It is very rude to intrude into a lady’s room, especially in the morning.” Hans retorted as she winked at Adeline and dragged the older, taller man out with her. “Come on… Alessandro, you too. Introductions can be saved for later.”
Alessandro gave the girl’s back an amused look. “Alright…” he mused out loud. “I’ll see you downstairs. Lily will show you to us.” He said as he walked out, closing the door behind him.
Adeline breathed out a huge sigh. Lisa was right. It would be a hectic day, especially with a few, not to mention strange, new characters to add to the whole equation.
“Um, good morning, Miss.” Lily started, making Adeline turn to her curiously. “Alessandro has assigned me the task to care for you.” She said. “My name is Lily and I am honored to serve you.” Lily executed a perfect curtsy.
Adeline blinked. Her mind wasn’t quite able to take in what Lily had just said. Servant? For her? She hadn’t even dreamt of having a servant. Ever. “Huh?” Adeline said blankly.
Lily shook her head. “It’s no matter, we’d better get you into a presentable state for the meeting in the lounge.” Lily said, giving Adeline a small, shy smile. “Come on.” She said, locating Adeline’s hand and gently tugged her out from the soft mattress.
“So you’re here to help me…?” Adeline asked as Lily led her to the bathroom.
“Yes.” The blonde girl replied. “Along with that, I shall care for you and protect you if the need arises.” She added as she let go of Adeline’s hand.
“So like Kreuz?” Adeline asked, unwilling to take her eyes off the shorter girl. She was still in unbelief that Alessandro had bothered to send her a bodyguard. Who did he think she was? A useless baby incapable of protecting herself?
Lily shook her head. “No, I am nowhere near his skill or level.” She admitted. “And I’m only there as backup.”
Adeline shook her head, he was really too much. “Alright.” She allowed as she took her toothbrush and started to brush her teeth.

Ten minutes later, she was in a pastel green, light, summery dress. Her hair was up in a half pony tail and it was even curled by Lily.
She turned to the seventeen year old. “Was this really necessary?” she asked resignedly. She looked awfully fancy, like the type of thing she would do when she was asked out to a ball, not some kind of everyday job meeting.
Lily nodded cheerfully. “Of course, this is the type of treatment that ladies have to go through every day!” she reprimanded gently. “Come.” She said, opening the door. “Lisa has instructed me to bring you to see her before anything else.”
Adeline smiled at the thought of the cheerful cook. Without even realizing it, she suddenly became hungry for any delicacy that the fantastic cook would make. “Ok!” she agreed. “Let’s go!” Adeline took long steps forward, already eager to have a taste of breakfast.
Lily smiled as she closed the door behind Adeline, escorting her to the dining room. Maybe the job wouldn’t be too bad after all.
Adeline stopped right outside the dining room, like she had done last night. She wasn’t sure what to expect this time. It was bright day light. Would the shades be closed? The chandelier would definitely be turned off, but…
“Go on.” Lily encouraged her. “There’s nothing bad in there.” She said. “And you’d better, before they catch sight of you again.” She added in lower tones.
Adeline nodded, not really paying attention to Lily’s warnings. Whatever they were, she could fight them off. It was day time now, so she was at the advantage. Reaching out her hand, she opened the door, glad that the sun wasn’t shining straight at her. Before she could get a good view of the room, Lily pushed her in and shut the door behind her.
“-job, Kreuz, they’ll be happy to-ah! There you are!” Lisa exclaimed as she turned around to face Adeline. “You sure took your own time!” she scolded. “I’ll get your breakfast right away!” Lisa said as she hurried off to the kitchen. “And take a seat, meanwhile! Don’t worry, Kreuz doesn’t bite!” she added.
Adeline’s attention immediately snapped to the table. Sure enough, she found the calm, mismatched eyed boy sitting on the right of where Alessandro had sat at last night. He had a half-empty plate in front of him.
“Ah, good morning.” Adeline said as Lily gestured to the same seat that she had been sitting at last night.
Kreuz gave her a curt nod, before returning to his bacon and eggs. From the size of the serving, Kreuz must really have been hungry.
“Where were you last night?” Adeline asked, watching the boy closely. All he did was to nod at Lily before returning back to his meal. Adeline turned to Lily, who was sitting beside her at the table.
“Kreuz was getting Hans back from a mission, then informing Lord Vincent and Lady Loretta that you have arrived. On top of that, Alessandro sent him to Lord Desmond Des Crepuscule and apparently, he is unable to attend this gathering because of some complications.” Lily explained.
“That’s right.” Lisa’s voice wafted through the kitchen door. “Kreuz is the only one capable of getting Lord Des Crepuscule’s attention other than the lords and ladies. Which is why he had to hurry.” She confirmed as she set plates of steaming hot eggs, bread and bacon in front of both Adeline and Lily. “It’s a miracle that he made it back so quickly.” She added as she ruffled Kreuz’s hair affectionately.
“Hey, but then, he’s Kreuz. He always exceeds the expectations.” Lily threw in confidently with a smile.
With that, Kreuz gave her a tiny smile, before sitting up straight and leaving the plate totally clean. “Thank you.” He said, to both Lily and Lisa.
“Good job, Kreuz, that’s pretty good already.” Lisa said, eyeing his plate admiringly.
“Mm.” Kreuz nodded.
Adeline looked at Lisa, Kreuz, and then Lily. It seemed like they were all related to each other and like a closely intertwined family—not like servants at all. Maybe this house was a little different than what she knew from experience at other nobles’ estates.
Shrugging that thought off, she picked up her fork and knife and dug right into the hearty breakfast.
“Lily!” Lisa’s sudden exclamation caught her attention. “Really! You should be eating! How are you going to be a successful guardian if you don’t replenish your energy?” she reprimanded teasingly.
“Sorry.” Lily said, looking at the eggs and picking up her fork and began shoveling food into her mouth quickly, but daintily.
“Alright.” Lisa began once again. “Now I will give you a briefing, just because I want to. Alessandro has, as you may have noticed, three guests with him. They are all dark hybrid nobles, although they have a complicated relationship with each other—I’ll explain that later—and this meeting will consist of a rescue plan, am I right, Kreuz?” Lisa paused as she waited for Kreuz’s affirmation.
“Yes.” Kreuz said, looking straight at Adeline. “And it seems that we have to win Lord Desmond’s trust as well.” He said gravely.
“How?” Lily asked, perking up immediately.
Adeline wracked her brains. She hadn’t heard of the name Des Crepuscule, had she? He wasn’t too famous in the Daylight world, so maybe it wasn’t too bad. Des Crepuscule… “Was he the one that made a truce with the Midiluire and saved himself a position among the council?” Adeline asked.
Kreuz looked at her with an expression of amazement and surprise. “Yes he is.” He answered, “And it seems that he is undergoing some trouble. He is a very temperamental person.”
“And why do we even need his help anyways?” Lily asked crossly as she pouted.
“Lord Des Crepuscule has a position of power. Therefore, he is able to provide us with things that we normally wouldn’t be able to get our hands on.” Adeline said thoughtfully.
“Ah, so you’re not as dim-witted as I thought you to be.” A new, brusque voice stated. Adeline turned around to see the man that had been referred to as Vince by Alessandro.
“Huh?” Adeline asked, somewhat lost. Had he been listening in to their conversation? But she hadn’t been able to sense his presence at all. She suddenly blushed a little, remembering that he had been in her room just a few minutes before.
He completely ignored her pink cheeks. “Most daylight knights have a tendency to keep asking a lot of questions and not even bothering to find things out for themselves.” The man said as he leaned against the doorframe. His hair was much lighter than Alessandro’s hair was and it was straighter and much more orderly. Despite that, he was similarly good-looking, like all other dark hybrid nobles she’d ever seen (usually in wanted posters) and had navy blue eyes, unlike Hans and Alessandro, more like Lisa. “I myself went through seven different knights and they still were the same, one after another. It’s a pain, really.” He added with a grimace. “Oh, by the way, I go by Vincent Alptraum, and I doubt you’ll ever have heard of my name. It’s not very powerful.” He said.
He still doesn’t entirely trust me. Adeline noticed. “Adeline Oraube of Horologium.” She said.
“And why are you here?” Lisa asked, pushing her hands onto her hips.
Vincent shrugged. “Loretta asked me to get her some tea.” He said. “And she specially asked for blueberry.”
Lisa grinned. “Of course we have that.” She said, snapping her fingers. “It is, after all, Lisa’s specially made tea that can only be found in the Indeminuit household.” She looked to Lily and Adeline. “Oh! You’re done!” she exclaimed, moving forwards and collecting their plates.
“Yes, thank you very much for the meal.” Adeline said as she wiped her mouth with the napkin.
“Don’t mention it.” Lisa said. “Ever.” She added in a more dangerous voice.
“O-ok.” Adeline agreed hurriedly. “I won’t.” she said.
Lisa flashed a bright smile at her. “Good!” She said happily as she stood up, carrying their plates. “And there’s your tea, Vincent.” Lisa said as the kitchen door opened, admitting a boy with auburn hair and gray eyes. He was carrying a small tray, which he was able to balance on one hand.
Vincent nodded. “Thank you, Jasper.” He said to the young man. “But I’ll be fine alone.” He stepped forwards to take the teacup from the white tray.
Jasper bowed with the tray. “As you wish, Lord Vincent.” He replied politely turning around to leave. “And by the way, welcome, Lady Adeline.” He added.
“I believe we have kept Master Alessandro long enough.” Kreuz said as he stood up. “And it is high time that we started.”
Vincent grinned. “Thought you’d never say that.” He said gratefully as he opened the door. He couldn’t wait to start.
Adeline followed the man uncertainly, with Lily and Kreuz tagging along behind her. He led them further down into the corridor and behind the stairs, where a smaller door stood, oak lined with gold and unlike the others, a gold XII on the front of the door. This must be the meeting room. Adeline thought to herself as Vincent opened the door for her.
“After you, my lady.” He said in a genuine tone.
Without even bothering to thank him, Adeline walked through the door, finding it surprisingly bright.
“Ah, good morning, Adeline!” Alessandro greeted from the arm chair that he was sitting in. He was facing her with his back to the long wall of windows. There were four other sofas, all of them were two-seaters and covered with the same velvet indigo as Alessandro’s was.
“Oh! You’re finally here!” a familiar, bright voice called from one of the couches. It was Hans. “You really took your own time!” she complained good-naturedly.
“Hans!” the final occupant of the room exclaimed softly. She was a woman with long, flowing chestnut hair. She had a tall, slim figure, complimented by her cherry blossom pink dress. “Please! Be more considerate to miss Adeline!” she scolded gently. Turning to Adeline, she stood up. “I am very sorry, please excuse Hans. I am Loretta Mondstrahl.” She introduced herself. “Pleased to meet you.”
Adeline nodded. “Adeline Oraube of Horologium.” She replied as she offered her hand politely.
“Well met.” Loretta replied graciously.
From the couch, Hans cleared her throat. “Um, excuse me? It’s a little pointless to waste our time on introductions, isn’t it?” she asked.
Loretta turned onto her. “Hans!” She exclaimed irately.
“Here, Loretta.” Vincent quickly stepped in, holding the cup of tea out. “You wanted this, right?” he asked.
Loretta turned around to face Vincent with a questioning look in her eyes. When she caught sight of the steaming cup of tea, her face lit up. “Oh! It’s the tea!” she exclaimed with a smile. “Of course I did! What else would there be purpose for if we visit the Indeminuit household without asking for a cup of their unique blueberry tea specialty?”
“Nothing, my dear.” Vincent answered with a smile.
“Alright, alright! Enough with the small talk!” Alessandro said impatiently, looking directly at me and gesturing to the couch on his left. Kreuz had already claimed the couch on the right, which he shared with Hans.
“Come on.” Lily muttered, guiding me past Vincent and Loretta and over to the couch beside Alessandro.
I made no comment about this, even though I was internally mad at Alessandro for insisting for me to be so close to him—even for a simple thing like some kind of meeting. Once I had taken my place, I could see that both Vincent and Loretta had taken their places next to each other on the couch directly opposite Alessandro.
“Good morning, people. Let’s get started with Hans.” Alessandro ordered, lacing his fingers and resting his chin on them, shifting his sea-green gaze onto the teenage girl.
“Mm.” Hans agreed, her face immediately somber. She quickly glanced at me before leaning back and starting. “Ok, so as I was tipped off about this Robert Giorno person who had some kind of connection with a dark hybrid concentration camp and all that usual crap, went to see the place and all that usual stuff and…” Hans paused, watching us carefully.
“And what?” Alessandro prompted rather impatiently.
Hans shrugged. “The usual. Crappy beds, six to a two by three room, bathrooms looked like they were left for animals to use and the food was more or less nutrition-less except for the carbohydrates that one gets from eating whatever muck they put in the pot.” She said, rolling her eyes. “I mean, seriously, these daylights a bit insane or what? We’re people too! And seriously, they actually expect those hybrids to be able to do hard physical work.” She rambled on and on. Adeline felt her blood run cold. Concentration camps? Six to a compound space not even worthy of the title “room”? What was going on here? These surely were lies.
“Ok, Hans, we get it.” Vincent interrupted her hastily. “Was there anything else?”
Adeline felt Hans’s indigo eyes on her. “He was there.” She said in a quiet voice.
“What?!” All the dark hybrids (except Kreuz) leaned in closer to Hans.
“He was there.” She repeated, clearly enjoying the adults’ intense looks.
“Who?” Adeline asked confusedly.
Lily grabbed her shoulder. “I’ll explain it later.” She muttered into Adeline's ear. “Listen first.”
“Explain.” Loretta commanded.
“He was there, they moved him out. He was pegged as dangerous.” She replied. “Then he was moved out.”
The adults groaned. “Not again!” they complained.
Dangerous… he… Things were beginning to click in Adeline’s mind. They were planning to bust some kind of dangerous dark hybrid out and wreck havoc on the daylight world. Her heart was sounding out in irregular intervals as she imagined the destruction that a dark hybrid could cause. She could stop it, she had to stop it…
“But I’ve tracked him down.” Hans announced triumphantly.
The whole room went quiet. Everyone was staring at the smug girl. “I know exactly where he is and I am going to get him out.” She repeated, slower this time.
Alessandro blinked. “When?” He asked. “When’s the earliest you’ll be able to get him out?” his voice was rising eagerly in anticipation.
Hans looked at him. “Not any time soon.” She admitted. “I’ve got to let the people cool off a bit. And besides, I have a major coming up next week.” She grimaced.
Vincent frowned. “I guess it can’t be helped, then?” He asked.
“You know, we could always ask-” Loretta started.
“No.” Hans said sharply. “Don’t.” Loretta looked taken aback. “You can’t let anyone else go. I’m the one that knows my way around these places. If anyone has a chance, it’s me.” She said grimly. “But then, I never fail.” She added, flashing a bright smile.
“Up until now.” Vincent added, narrowing his eyes.
“Whatever.” Hans rolled her eyes. “And now, onto Kreuz.” She announced, shifting the attention to the quiet boy beside her.
“Mm.” He nodded distantly. “Lord Des Crepuscule is set on testing us. He is unable to attend this meeting due to several complications. The main reason is obvious. He has lost his best servant.”
“When?” Loretta asked.
“A long time ago.” Kreuz answered.
“And why did you only tell us now?” Alessandro asked.
“I was specially ordered by the lord not to give this information of his weakness out.” Kreuz said, looking straight at his master.
Alessandro frowned. “Ah, true, I’d do that too…” he mused. “Who is it?” He asked.
They had caught Adeline’s interest. Even she herself didn’t know much about the secretive dark lord. To this question, Kreuz turned his head to look at Hannah, immediately shifting attention over to her.
Hannah’s lips curved in a smile. “I do know.” She confirmed.
“Well, spill it!” Vincent commanded impatiently.
Hannah’s smile grew wider. “Really, I expected you people to be smarter.” She folded her arms. “Desmond Des Crepscule’s personal servant is Logan Nuitchasse. The exact person that we’ve been trying to track down for the last few years.”
“Really?” Alessandro asked blankly. “I never knew that.” He commented.
Vincent frowned. “Of course… he disappeared just before I could get my hands on him, Desmond, that bastard. I should have known that he would’ve gotten his hands on the last Nuitchasse alive.” He grumbled.
Alessandro sighed. “It looks like we have no choice. We had no hope of getting Logan in the first place. But now, we can kill two birds with one stone.”
“Finding Logan would earn us Lord Desmond’s trust and we’d be even stronger.” Loretta agreed with a compensative light in her eyes. “It’s worth it.” She decided. “Everyone agree?” she asked, looking around.
“Agreed.” Alessandro nodded.
“More than definitely.” Hans added.
“Fine.” Vincent allowed grudgingly.
“Adeline?” Loretta asked, shifting the attention back to the daylight knight.
“Huh?” Adeline blinked, looking at the people around her. They were all looking at her expectantly, as if they actually valued her opinion. “Ok, I do not know what you are doing and-”
“Whatever.” Adeline was cut off by Hans. “Whatever her vote, we are making a democratic decision. And the vote for action is by far the majority.” After making that statement, she crossed her arms and leaned back against the couch with a satisfied smile.
Alessandro shot an apologetic smile at Adeline before continuing in his usual authoritative voice. “So it is decided. Hans, you will be given the task of busting Mr. Nuitchasse out of the compound. Notify us as soon as possible and Kreuz can come pick him up.” Turning to Kreuz, he continued. “And once Logan has been put into your care, bring him to Lord Des Crepuscule immediately and tell him to contact me. Loretta, we need contacts. Especially the more powerful ones. Vincent…” Alessandro looked at him with a mysterious smile. “You know what to do.”
Vincent Alptraum stood up, grabbing his bowler hat from where it sat beside him. “More than well.” He agreed, placing it on his head. “Well, I’ll be off now.” He announced to the room, giving Lily and Adeline a farewell nod and turning to Loretta.
Adeline blinked. “What’s he doing?” She asked Lily. This was all so confusing. If she was only a bit more confident, she’d have interrupted, but no, her nerves were getting to her.
Lily gave her a sympathetic look. “I can’t tell you.” She muttered back, actually looking apologetic.
“I’ll see you soon, my dear.” He murmured to Loretta, just loud enough for Adeline to hear. “I won’t let you suffer any more.” The dark hybrid left the room as Loretta’s gaze followed him wistfully.
“I’ll ask Felicia to go find out about the Sternlicht family then.” Loretta said, turning back to face Alessandro. “They seem to have the confidence to poke their heads out a little more than before. It should be easier to find them.”
“Good.” Alessandro nodded. “We’ll need all the help we can get.”
“And as for me, I’ll be on my way. I still have that report that I was supposed to hand in to Gleam.” Hannah said, standing up spontaneously. “And I need to get my contact.” She added, crossing the room in long strides and slipping into a black trench coat.
“Good luck to you, Hans!” Alessandro called after the teenager. “And you, Loretta, may stay as long as you want. I don’t suppose you might like to stay for tea, would you?” he invited her.
By then, Adeline had enough. “Alessandro!” She shouted, glaring at the owner of the mansion.
“Yes?” Alessandro asked, puzzled by her sudden outburst. Kreuz wasn’t interfering at all, but his mismatched eyes were trained on both of them.
“I have no idea what the heck is going on.” She stared hostily at the older male. “So you had better explain this all or I will get myself right out of here and never come back. Ever.”
“Ah.” Alessandro said, as he had forgotten to ask someone to do him a favor rather than acknowledging Adeline’s outburst. “It is not the time for the question to be answered.” He said gently.
“I don’t care, I want to know why I’m here. What do I have to do with all this? What are you people planning? All this that I have a right to!” She retorted. She had snapped. She hadn’t snapped in a long time. Beside her, Adeline was vaguely aware that Lily was distressed, but could do nothing much; her anger was trained on Alessandro and only Alessandro.
Alessandro looked half afraid at her wrath and looked like he was actually contemplating her question, as if she had upset him so badly that he didn’t have an answer for her. “Well,” Alessandro hesitated, before turning to Loretta, as if asking what action he should take.
Loretta stared back with an even gaze, but Adeline could tell that she was just as disturbed by the demand. Surely Loretta had to side with Adeline, she couldn’t be that wrong, could she?
“How do we go about this?” He murmured, looking at Lily, Loretta, then Kreuz, all in turn. He was planning something. She narrowed her eyes. This had better be good, or else, she’d walk out right now.
Loretta sipped her tea once more, before setting it down, a look of determination on her face. “It looks like we have no other choice.” She sighed grimly. “We have to show her. There’s no other way.”
The room went still. Lily looked scared, while something flashed in Kreuz’s eyes. It looked like panic for a moment, but it was gone as quickly as it had come. Alessandro’s jaw tightened, but otherwise made no other movement.
“There is no choice, then.” Alessandro said, turning to face Adeline, who shrank back. Alessandro looked creepy, it was as if his face was haunted by some professor, solemn and melancholic. It made her scared. “Well then, Adeline, here’s the truth from all of us.”
And then, all of a sudden, Adeline didn’t want to know anymore.

[Little Sparrow]

Phase Four;

The world was bright. It looked so unreal. The glare was so bright, so intense that she had to squint to be able to see anything. But the sight that lay before her was so devastating that she wanted to close her eyes and forget about it. But her body wouldn’t respond, wouldn’t shut out the mass of carnage, the brilliant scarlet that stained the streets, the walls, the windows, everything. Everything was red as the sun glared down hotly, as if it wanted to cook all the blood and all the bloodied figures strewn about. There seemed like there was no one else alive, no one except her.
Adeline tried to move her arm to cover her eyes, open her mouth to scream, something. But it was all futile. She couldn’t do anything.
It was still, so still, so silent that she couldn’t believe it. A moment ago, the world was in chaos, everyone was screaming, shouting, yelling the battle cry in defiance, until that moment. Something had come and turned everything to pure silence. The jumble of bodies, some human, others animal, all lying in the same stillness with lethal weapons, claws, teeth, maces, swords, spears, everything. Many had cuts and gashes all across their body, all had some kind of wound across their heart. They had left, left him alone here to fend for himself.
What had happened?
A rush of memories flooded through Adeline’s head. These weren’t her memories, these were memories of a world that she didn’t know. She was at a ball, running around joyfully, trying to find someone between the mass of elegant legs, high-heels, boots, shoes, looking for someone that she couldn’t see because he was so short. The band was playing somewhere in the background, while the quiet din of glass on glass, silver on porcelain and the murmur of soft voices plagued the air. “Jason!” She called in a voice that wasn’t hers. It was excited and happy, like a little boy’s, but this wasn’t a voice that she heard before, so why was it so familiar? “Jason!”
“Alessandro!” Another young voice cried out joyfully. She immediately changed directions to see a boy with beautiful, mahogany-colored hair and dark cornflower blue eyes. His face was lit up in an adorable smile in joy of seeing his best friend.
And then Adeline realized that she was in Alessandro’s memories. Just moments before, he had taken off one of his gloves, stretching out a well-manicured hand out to Adeline and told her to do the same. She did, then with a second command, she looked into the depths of the sea-green eyes, as if looking for the bottom, and then she had come to the first scene of gore and carnage.
“How’ve you been!” Alessandro asked as he hugged his friend tightly, feeling mutual expression of endearment from his best friend.
“Good! Here, look what I got for you!” Jason squealed, leading Alessandro off to the direction that he had came from.
“Ok!” Alessandro replied eagerly. This was a world so different from what Adeline experienced just moments before, Alessandro was a carefree little kid with friends, unlike the stoic, mysterious figure that he was now. So he did have a pleasant childhood.
“Here!” Jason said, going up to his mother, a tall lady with similar dark hair, but green eyes. “Mother, I want to give it to Alessandro!”
The woman turned her gaze down to her son with a bright smile. Jason looked a lot like his mother. “Go ahead, Jace.” She smiled, directing her eager son towards a corner where a solitary, expensive-looking bag stood.
“Good evening, Mrs. Mondschein.” Alessandro managed to gasp out as he was pulled onward by his best friend.
“Here you go.” Jason had let go of Alessandro to grab the bag, presenting it to him. “Happy tenth birthday, Alessandro!” He smiled.
Alessandro grinned hugely. “Thanks!” He exclaimed happily as he received the bag, eyes shining with excitement. He stared at the bag, wide-eyed, wondering what could be inside.
“Go on, open it!” Jason said eagerly, eyes wide in anticipation.
“Ok!” Alessandro nodded, dropping down to the ground so that he could put it down while he groped inside the bag for the gift that Jason was so eager for him to have. After a few moments of rummaging around, his hand came upon an object. It was small, relatively flat and four-sided. He wrapped his hand around it and pulled it out. The indigo box was sealed shut by two golden silk ribbons tied together and on a card, it said:
For Alessandro Indeminuit on his tenth birthday
From Jason Mondschein
“Jason…” Alessandro was breathless. Even the box seemed to belong to him. He looked up at the boy who was two years older than he was.
“Go ahead and open it. It’s more awesome than it looks.” There was a sincere note in his voice.
“Ok.” Alessandro nodded furiously, slipping the ribbons off and letting the lid fall onto the ground. After that, he paused, jaw hanging at what was within.
Lying in a bed of velvet was a blue gemstone, a sapphire. It was inset with darker, obscure lines that formed a crescent moon with three lines coming from the concave curve. Alessandro recognized it; it was the Mondschein crest. It was Jason’s family crest, so the silver wristlet that he had been presented was his bind. The bind was one of the most important things that a dark hybrid possessed. It was their freedom and their “soul”. It was a sign that Jason liked Alessandro so much that he had given Alessandro the only thing that would secure the phrase “forever”; his bind.
Alessandro stared at the object incredulously. He couldn’t believe the weight of the gift that his best friend had given him. It was amazing. He never realized that their friendship went that deep. “Jason…” The words were stuck in his throat.
“I’m glad you like it, Alessandro.” Jason said with a peculiar smile. His expression was somewhere in between knowing and surprise. “Here, put it on!” He suggested, bending down to help the dumbstruck boy.
“Jason, are you sure?” Alessandro asked hesitantly, swallowing nervously.
“Of course I’m sure, idiot!” Jason replied, grinning. “I can’t imagine what else I’d give you. Or who else I’d give it to, for that matter. I’d rather you get it, compared to every other person in the world.” He plucked the bracelet from its lining and unclasped it, taking Alessandro’s left hand and clasping it onto the boy’s wrist. “There you go!” He said cheerfully.
Adeline couldn’t believe how meek Alessandro looked when he received Jason’s gift. He looked like a regular young boy, not like the mysterious man that he was now, and not for the first time, she wondered what had changed him.
“Th-thank you, Jason.” Alessandro said, eyes still wide with shock and disbelief as he stared up into his friend’s blue ones.
Jason clapped him on the back. “Come on, I’m sure others are waiting for you. After all, turning ten is one big thing.” He got up to his feet lithely and held a hand out.
Alessandro smiled. “Ok!” He decided, grabbing Jason’s hand and being hauled up to his feet. “Let’s go then!” He said excitedly, running off, hand in hand with his best friend.
The next few memories were a blur as Alessandro’s mind kept wandering back to the silver bind and was unable to take in her surroundings. And despite Adeline’s hatred for the man, she couldn’t help but feel happy for his light, innocent boy.
And then all of a sudden, the scene changed. Alessandro was twelve and the world seemed so chaotic. He was afraid, afraid of some unidentified fear. Adeline could glean nothing more from his mind as the black haired, tall, lanky boy paced the corridor impatiently. There was no one else in the house. He was home alone, while everyone else was out, busy. Including Jason. Alessandro’s heart leapt painfully as adrenaline coursed through his veins, making him uncomfortably jumpy as he thought about his fourteen year old friend, recruited because of his talent at maneuvering aircrafts. He was now one of the commandeers of a NightClaw fleet and he had received his own plane, of which he was very proud of. The gray and black jet was mainly built for speed and dexterity rather than comfort. Jason had given him a tour of the aircraft not too long ago and it seemed pretty normal, but loaded with arsenal. Jason had said that this was the newest model of aircraft out, from both the dark and light hybrid creations with the highest safety and the best tracking missiles and a whole other lot of features, most of which he didn’t listen to. Alessandro was just happy for his best friend, but the fear was still nagging at him…
“Jason, this plane… are you sure?” Alessandro was in the Caelum hangar with his best friend Jason. Now he was two years older than when Jason had presented him with his very own bind and so much had changed. Jason was so much taller and grownup looking, but he had never lost the childish, elf-like look that had been ever-present in his features throughout the time that Alessandro had known him. Now Jason had finally realized his dream of piloting. Only, it wasn’t a situation that Alessandro would have liked Jason to pilot in, no matter how long he had been waiting for this moment.
“Yeah.” Jason replied simply. He was in a black outfit, almost skin-tight, but flexible. Upon his head was a black helmet with a white engraving of a pair of wings, partially hidden by the dark goggles that were pushed up upon them, soon to descend and obscure the brilliant blue of the fourteen year old’s eyes. “Alessandro, this is the one chance that I’ve been waiting for, the chance to fly, the chance to show them that I’m not the useless little thing that they think I am.” He added as a flash of anger and pain clouded his eyes.
“I know I can’t stop you, but I can try.” Alessandro smiled weakly. His entire brain was screaming vainly for Jason to stop and not get anywhere near that plane. It wanted Alessandro to activate the bind technique that he had learned to stop his best friend from committing a literal suicide.
Jason nodded, suddenly appearing weary. This was a private hangar, set up for Jason and his plane only. No one else was here to supervise the two boys. Alessandro’s parents were busy talking with the flight commander while leaving him a chance to speak with his dearest friend – for the last time, it seemed. “Well, you know that there’s no turning back now.” He sighed. “But whatever happens, beneath the stars and behind the sun.” He held out his right hand, glove clad and curled into a fist, knuckles pointed towards the younger boy.
Alessandro lifted his hand, fist curled and knuckles pointed towards Jason. “Wait for me.” He murmured as they bumped knuckles.
“Forever.” Jason promised with a smile, back to his old, happy, smiling person.
A loud blaring sound coming from the higher corner of the hangar made both youths turn up to face the speaker there. “Pilots on standby! Warm up the engines! Takeoff in fourteen clicks!” The voice commanded authoritatively.
“Well, that’s my call.” Jason commented, looking back into Alessandro’s bluish-green eyes, feeling not for the first time that he was going to drown within the ocean in search for the bottom of the wise, sad eyes. “I guess I’ll see you then.”
Alessandro’s throat seemed too clogged to speak, so he just nodded. With every heartbeat, an intense pain seemed to throb, spreading out to his whole body, creeping dangerously towards his eyes, which were burning.
All of a sudden, Jason dove forwards, sweeping Alessandro up in his crushing arms as a final sign of departure. “Wait for me. I will come back. I swear.” Those were the last words Jason whispered into his ear. Alessandro was so close that he could actually hear Jason’s heart, thumping wildly, betraying the intense fear and excitement that plagued his mind, given away by only the slightest waver of voice. Jason’s body was so warm, so comforting as it always was.
And before Alessandro would have liked it, the moment was over. Jason was already halfway into his plane, legs climbing up the steps and into the cockpit lithely with practiced ease.
Alessandro walked away as the cockpit door shut, away to the room at the back of the hangar, where he would be safe from the jet’s fumes and blast and where he could watch his best friend leave. The door swinging shut behind him seemed to shut the whole world out and the seconds ticked by. A low hum grew louder until it was almost deafening. He could see particles of dust, kicked up by the powerful engines that were warming up in the sleek plane’s body.
A final roar sounded as the jet shot out of the hangar. “Unit 13 clear.” The speaker had blasted just milliseconds before. Alessandro’s eyes tracked the black plane as it rose up and away from him. His heart felt cold and empty and it seemed like there was nothing in the world.
Jason was gone. He was gone forever.
Adeline drew in a sharp breath. Alessandro’s pain was almost tearing her apart. It was so real, so obsessive that it seemed to take over all of her emotions and she had to struggle to keep it under control and not lose her head. Ok, so Alessandro did have human experiences and feelings. He had even lost someone close to him, fighting in a war. The war. Guilt swept over her. Adeline knew which war that was; it was the first full out war against the dark hybrids, the war that had made them great. They had crushed the dark hybrids, killing many and imprisoning more. That was the time that the exiles had began to start breeding and multiplying, calling for more daylight knights. This was it. This was why they were fighting so bitterly; they wanted freedom. But could they really be trusted with it, or were they as bad as the politicians and high ranking officials claimed. She would have to judge for herself.
The scene changed back to where Alessandro was pacing the house. It was three months after Jason had flown off in that NightClaw jet. He had heard nothing from anyone, nothing from his parents, even though they were the main commanders. They really weren’t taking any chances, keeping their plans to themselves and not even sharing it with their own son who could have benefit and helped them. He felt a stab of betrayal from his parents; why couldn’t they trust him, he was the most trustworthy person and wouldn’t dare turn over to the light hybrids’ side. He hated them. They had taken Jason away from him, forced so many to die in their quest for freedom and rights that those imbeciles wanted to take away.
His parents were out, busy planning the battlefield. They had taken everyone with them, leaving Alessandro “in the safety of the mansion”. Right. The first place the light hybrids would bomb was the mansion, hoping to kill whoever was in there and cut off any escape or reformation base for the dark hybrids, them, Alessandro, Jason, everyone else that he ever knew. It was unfair, but he could do nothing about it. It was useless.
All of a sudden, Alessandro stopped. He was at his own room door. He dashed in, ignoring the mess and looked out the window. Yes, there were people coming, but they seemed like they were in a hurry. They were on horseback, both were males and they had a frantic look in their eyes. He frowned, what did they want from him? He didn’t know them.
Despite that, he went downstairs to intercept them anyways, a suspicious look in his eyes as he cracked open the mansion door. “Who’s there?” He asked icily, peering out to meet the man’s eyes. The second man had disappeared off to somewhere mysterious. He couldn’t get into the house in any way, so Alessandro figured that he didn’t have to worry about him.
“Roberto Avondval.” The man replied curtly. “Alessandro, hurry up. We have to go. My partner Albert is getting your horse.”
“Why?” Alessandro demanded, narrowing his eyes. What did they want to do with him, what was their plan?
“Benedetto Indeminuit ordered us to.” He replied again. Alessandro heard the clopping of hooves; “Albert” had arrived.
Alessandro wasn’t too sure if he should have been trusting the man, but he had been cooped up in the house for so long that he cherished any chance to go out. So he would go with them. “Alright, I’ll come.” He gave his answer. But he wasn’t going to let his guard down. He hadn’t been training in the ways of a dark summoner for nothing. With a quick movement, Alessandro darted out of the house and shut the door behind him. Albert had returned with his black stallion, all geared up and ready to go.
“Hello there, Nightrise, glad to be with you once again.” He murmured into the horse’s ear as he swung himself up onto the saddle. He turned to the two men. “Alright, where do we go?” It was time for some fun. Alessandro’s forte wasn’t horse riding, but he had learned how to ride enough to pass the basics of tests.
“To the battlefield.” Albert answered, spurring his horse on.
Alessandro’s eyes gleamed. This was the chance he was waiting for. The battlefield. He had always wanted to know what went on in the center of action. Roberto and Albert definitely wouldn’t take him into the brunt of action, so it must have been the place where the plans were made and where the commanding officers and warlocks would plan and relay commands. That was where his parents were and that’s where he would join them. Their fault for leaving him alone without anything to do.
Alessandro spurred his horse on. Nightrise had been his ninth birthday present and the black steed had grown up with him. He had been riding it every week and giving it all the exercise that it needed and all the usual responsibilities that a horse rider had with his mount. And it had paid off, Nightrise was still in the best condition and Alessandro could feel the stallion’s muscles move as he kept pace with the two men’s horses effortlessly. Alessandro couldn’t help but resist a small smile, Nightrise was one of the most expensive breeds and the only breed of horse that the Indeminuit family would ever purchase.

The scene switched again. Now Alessandro was outside the dark hybrids’ base. His memories alerted Adeline that they were in Cetus, one of the cities that belonged to the dark hybrids and was on the “borderline” of the light territory. He was flanked by Albert and Roberto again for safety. But it wasn’t like anyone would try to attack them here—unless they wanted a whole bombshell of destruction over their heads. No one messed with the Indeminuits.
“Alright, we’re going in now.” Albert warned him. “Don’t do anything stupid.”
“Why would I?” Alessandro asked mildly.
“You never know.” Roberto replied, before urging his steed on. “Albert and Roberto, we have brought Alessandro Indeminuit as requested.” He called up to some invisible guard.
“Enter!” The sharp command was issued as the iron doors swung open to reveal an open courtyard, much like one of an actual castle.
Alessandro went in, looking around curiously. “So this is Fort Cetus.” He murmured, taking every detail in. the main courtyard had no details, but it was a bowl-like structure made with stone. It seemed that there was no way out, even the walls were impossible to climb with the curve and the smooth stone. “It’s a perfect design. No way for enemies to come in except by air.” He noted. “And if they do, not many can come in at once.”
Roberto gave him a funny look. “Come on, we’ll get you to Benedetto and Edmonda now.” He said, dismounting.
Alessandro copied him, giving Nightrise a pat on the neck before two armored men came to take the horses away. Apparently Albert wasn’t going along with them. What did it matter? All Alessandro was interested in now was finding the way in. This fort was so seamlessly designed that Alessandro wanted to know how they were even going to access it.
To Alessandro’s sudden satisfaction, a section of the wall suddenly moved out, revealing a crack about two meters tall and one and a half meters wide. His eyes widened; this slab of wall was perfectly disguised, and as it moved outwards, it wasn’t going to be able to be pushed in, meaning that it was even less of a chance for any invaders to get past the wall. Fort Cetus really was as great as he had hoped. It had all the necessary defensive instruments and all the perfect structures. This was the best place to hide out—if the light hybrids didn’t know about it.
“Come on.” Roberto called back. He was already ahead of Alessandro, halfway to the opening.
“Right.” Alessandro agreed, taking a step forward to catch up to the older dark hybrid, and that’s where that particular memory ended.
The bloody scene came back to Adeline’s view. Now she could recognize all the bodies. This was outside Fort Cetus. The light hybrids had somehow lured them all out. The place was strewn with blood and bodies, Alessandro was paralyzed in shock. He had just been sleeping a deep sleep after some serious sparring and now, when he woke up, things were like this. He felt a strange feeling, like he was betrayed by his comrades, Roberto, Albert, his parents. Everyone had left him here, alone. Alessandro’s eyes burned, threatening to spill hot, salty drops. He was scared, scared for the first time in his life and he had nowhere to go. No one was alive, not a single person that he knew. He just had Jason’s bind with him; it seemed like the only thing that connected him to the dark hybrids that lay on the ground before him, behind him, everywhere. They were all dead, all murdered brutally by those light hybrid bastards. Why? Why were they fighting, why did this have to happen, why did Jason have to die, his parents, acquaintances, comrades, everyone was gone.
A single tear trailed down his face, shocked and scared. He didn’t have any control, it was too much, all too much for him to bear. The emotions all seemed to want out. Fear, hate, anger, betrayal, hurt, loneliness, all the feelings that he had kept bottled up ever since Jason left in the NightClaw jet. At this point, he was too numb to care that the stream of hot drops were even stronger now, dripping off his jaw and onto the ground below. His fingernails were being dug into his palm, producing tiny rivulets of red that he didn’t feel anymore. What was he going to do now? There was no way out of here and on foot would be too long and risky, he would die for sure. No one would know that Fort Cetus had just faced a huge massacre and he was the only one alive. He was isolated, on an island in the middle of nowhere, it seemed.

Alessandro didn’t know how long he had stood there for, but all of a sudden, there were voices, voices that quickly grew louder and more confusing, like the waves crashing onto the shore steadily. For a moment, he really thought that he was on a beach, before someone touched him. It wasn’t a gentle touch, but a grip. He could tell that it was the touch of a man, a light hybrid. It must be the light hybrids coming to stage their victory. Alessandro thought bitterly. They’ve come to proclaim this to the world that the dark hybrids have been crushed. He thought bitterly, oblivious to the light hybrids that were taking a good look over him.
He didn’t even register the sharp prick of the needle as something was injected. Maybe it was poison that they injected into him, sending him on his way to join his parents and everyone else that he ever knew…
Alessandro’s brain clouded and his heart hoped that this was the end. His head knew otherwise; this battle wasn’t going to end so easily. His knees buckled like jelly, giving way and refusing to support him. Instead of falling to the ground, a pair of arms caught him, and that was the last that he remembered of that scene.

[Little Sparrow]

Phase Five;

Adeline felt awkward. She had never experienced or even sensed pain anywhere close to what Alessandro had just showed her. She felt sick; she had always thought that the defeat of the dark hybrid was the right move to make and the dark hybrids didn’t deserve to live in freedom. She didn’t know how wrong she was—until now. It was so wrong, the dark hybrids were people too, they had emotions, Alessandro’s memories had just showed her all of that.
Slowly she was becoming aware that she had a body of her own. Her hand was still in Alessandro’s, but she wasn’t moving. She was lost in her own thoughts, opinions about Alessandro. Everything about him had changed. The once annoying, mysterious man had now taken a new turn; a hard childhood, the pain of losing so many, the trauma of having to watch others being murdered bloodily, his best friend, parents, everyone.
“Bring her up, Lily.” Alessandro’s voice wafted through her thoughts hazily.
“At once.” Lily replied in a low tone, nudging Adeline up and taking her hand, leading the dazed nineteen year old up the stairs and into the room that she had been given to sleep in. Adeline couldn’t think any more and collapsed straight onto her bed, lost in the thoughts that plagued her mind.
Alessandro had experienced that, what about Kreuz? He had only been a young child then, barely enough to remember his parents, did he even know who they were? What had made him into the person that he was now? Emotionless, loyal only to Alessandro, a remarkable expert at decapitation of people, just what had been done to him? Vincent, Loretta, Hans, Lily, Lisa, all Alessandro’s servants? They were all dark hybrids, did something bad happen to them too? Worse than Alessandro’s? More bearable?
The whirlwind of thoughts plagued her mind, sending her into a confused sleep.
Alessandro was right, she wanted to help so badly that she wouldn’t have thought twice about overthrowing the light authorities. The dark hybrids deserved a place, the light hybrids were wrong, they deserved to die, they should be the ones in the concentration camps, the torture camps, the outcasts of society living in the slums and sidelines, the ones driven insane and willing to attack everyone in pain and grief. Why did it have to be like that?
“Professor Gleam!” Hans Mitternacht called into the room, peeking in without even blinking at the light that streamed in relentlessly from the large windows that covered one entire wall. Even though she was a dark hybrid, she had lived most of her life surrounded by the light, unlike most other dark hybrids like her guardians Vincent and Loretta and Alessandro and Kreuz. She could adapt. She needed to adapt.
“Yes, come in, Hans.” The deep, pleasant voice came from the room.
“Thank you professor.” Hans replied, walking into the room confidently with a smile on her face. She knew that the professor was expecting her; she had specially made an appointment with him to discuss something that she had meant to a long time ago. He had been pestering her for her answer until now.
“So Hans, what is it?” He asked. The blond, forty year old had his fingers laced as he looked into his best student’s indigo gaze. It didn’t matter if Hannah Mitternacht was a dark hybrid—she was by far his best student and the sharpest one in the whole school. She had skipped two years ahead and no one could deny the fact that she was a model student; perfect grades, great looks, friendly personality and a caring nature. She was the best biochemistry student that the Academy of Physical Sciences had seen in a long time.
He watched as Hans drew in a breath. Her hand slipped into the pocket of the white lab coat that the students were always required to wear over their normal clothes. “I’ve decided.” She announced quietly.
Julius Gleam immediately sat up straighter, turning his full attention onto the dark hybrid. Yes, she was finally about to decide her candidate. As a third former, every biochemistry student was required to pick a dark hybrid to study and become a biochemist specializing in dark hybrid analytics. Hans Mitternacht had delayed her subject choice, probably because she was a dark hybrid herself, but that didn’t seem to hinder her learning or reputation. In fact, she seemed to be doing just as well as anyone. He was rather glad that Hans had finally made her choice.
“Logan Nuitchasse.” She announced, pulling a picture of the dark hybrid from her pocket, presenting it to him proudly.
The light hybrid’s eyes gleamed. He knew that he shouldn’t have been expecting any less from her, but her choice still came as a bit of a shock. Logan Nuitchasse was one of the more—the most dangerous dark hybrid that any student could choose. He had just been moved to the Brightstar prison, made for the most dangerous of dark hybrids that they hadn’t been able to kill or they wanted to keep. Logan Nuitchasse was only eight when they brought him in, but he hadn’t lost any of his family’s famed brutality, second only to the legendary Kreuz, whose parents were unknown or kept secret. Rumor was that he had a science-related past, but even he himself didn’t know. “Logan Nuitchasse…” He murmured. The boy would certainly be a good choice. He was one of the best warriors that Cruzado had ever seen and not many students were able to handle an offensive-type warrior. He knew that Hans had a special gift and would be able to control the boy, but he was still skeptical. Logan Nuitchasse had just been moved to the Brightstar prison and he was doubtful that the prison masters would let the sixteen year old out of their sight.
“Don’t worry, Professor, I’ll convince them, all you have to do is give the ok.” Hans cut in again with one of her ever-knowing comments. She smiled reassuringly, diminishing any last doubts that he had. Hans would do a great job as always.
“Alright, here, let me sign this for you…” the professor leaned over to reach for the permission slip.
The black haired boy curled up his lip in a scowl. There were voices outside. Not the pathetic, gravelly ones that he was used to, smooth, educated voices that showed that these people had a high intelligence level. That was an insult; having people with knowledge and no fighting experience to have to try to deal with him. Disgusting. To have been downgraded to this. And they called this the best prison in the entire Cruzado, probably because of their seals, not physical hardiness of the cell. At least this room was bigger than the previous one.
He trailed the intricate design that curled around his fingers, wrist, forearms, elbows, literally everywhere. The seal was golden in color and was probably meant to seal his access to his spirit and dark destructive forces. It wasn’t doing its job. Even though the seal had been placed on every part of him, Logan still felt the darkness pulsing through him. His spirit, Leopard was still inside him and he was able to call on the beast’s power, although it wasn’t nearly as strong as before.
Logan lifted his head up a fraction, just enough to let the glaring light hit his violet irises and enter his pupils. His black hair mostly obscured his view, despite all of the light hybrids’ efforts to cut it off. A sudden voice caught his attention. It was higher pitched than all the male voices that he always heard around here; there were no female staff, it was too dangerous for them. Those fragile little things could be ripped to pieces so easily, there was no place for them here. But the voice was definitely a female voice. A new recruit? A visitor? No, the voice sounded too young.
“…here we are.” The first male voice announced. Logan could hear them now, they were right outside the heavy metal door.
“Please be careful, Miss Mitternacht—” the second voice started. Logan’s head perked up a little more. Mitternacht, that was a dark hybrid name, but they wouldn’t let a dark hybrid near him, the light hybrids were too afraid that the dark hybrids would want to bust him out for his famed battle skills. They had tried it before, but none had prevailed. What was the female dark hybrid here for?
“Yes, I know, sir. I can handle him don’t worry.” The female voice cut in sweetly. “I think you should trust Professor Gleam. He knows I can handle Logan.” Logan’s eyes gleamed with malice. Who was this female dark hybrid that dared to stand up to his reputation? In him, Leopard squirmed with excitement, as if he was able to break free of the bounds that held the majority of his power.
“Very well, then.” The man agreed reluctantly. The bolts clicked open and the door swung open a crack. “Here you go.”
“Thank you, gentlemen.” Miss Mitternacht replied, slipping in and closing the door behind her. Logan knew all too well that the caretakers were afraid of him. He lifted up his head to meet the female figure’s eyes, eager to see what kind of person claimed that she could handle him.
Logan blinked, confused. This was not what he expected. The girl was… young. About as old as he was, maybe younger. Her form was tall and lanky and her heart shaped face was framed by dark curls, contrasted by the white coat that she had thrown over her dark attire. Perhaps he had been cooped up for too long, for he couldn’t ever remember if he had seen a girl as beautiful as she was, light hybrid or dark hybrid. She had no problem with the lighting, strange for one of his kind, but he could tell that she had not been through the torture that he had.
“My, they’ve taken it to the point of a double snare seal.” The speculative voice drifted into his ears from where he was sitting more or less cross-legged on the ground. The voice wasn’t tinged with any kind of fear, but some kind of indecipherable triumph.
Logan immediately lifted his head, ready to stare the girl down, but before he could turn his murderous stare on her for long, his eyes widened in shock. The pixie-like face was staring at him with an expression of pride and perceptiveness, two feelings that he had not seen in a long time from anyone. Leopard immediately rebelled, struggling against the bond. The surge of power was so amazing that Logan could hardly prevent a twitch and a maniacal grin, despite the shock that she had given him. He had never seen any shade of indigo before in his lifetime, even his own eyes were violet. The Mitternacht girl’s eyes were dark and crystalline, yet so bright that it was almost blinding. The sense of power flowing from her was so strong that it was enough to make him envy her profusely. “So what?” He replied, his voice with a significant growl to it. It scared most people, making him mad as the dark hybrid barely even flinched.
“So you’re not going to be of much use. Luckily I’ve learned how to dispel barriers.” She replied, completely oblivious to his menacing tone.
Damn, she was really making him mad. “So do it.” Logan hissed irritably. If she could get it off, get it off and free him from his misery, end of story, end of pain.
“I will.” She dismissed his request with a calm answer. “And what do I get? Not even a please?” she asked mildly.
“Why would I do that?” Logan demanded, crossing his arms over his bare chest and tilting his chin up defiantly.
“Because it’s good manners.” The girl replied. “And introducing yourself is good too. I am Hannah Mitternacht and I know you, so you don’t even have to bother introducing yourself, Logan Nuitchasse.”
“And what do you want from me?” He asked, narrowing his eyes. “Hannah Mitternacht?” he added after a moment’s thought. Hannah Mitternacht… he hadn’t really heard that name before, but it was a good name.
“Thought you’d ask that.” Hannah Mitternacht shrugged. “Well, in a way you could say I’m here to bust you out, but in another way, I’m here to employ you as my test subject.” She shrugged innocently.
“Hah, I doubt you’d be able to do either.” Logan scoffed disdainfully. People had tried before, tried and failed pitifully, so how would she do something like that.
“Watch me.” Hannah replied with a devilish grin, stretching a hand out towards him. There seemed to be some kind of powder in her palm, not any light color, but a dark color, like poison purple, the opposite of the design all over him. “Fly…” She murmured, letting the small particles float towards him.
Logan didn’t flinch. Instead, he rather welcomed the dark substance as it broke apart all the tendrils. Leopard snarled in vicious joy and a sudden strength coursed through his coiled limbs. He set his eyes on the girl that had freed him. “Thank you very much.” He hissed, voice ending in a bloodcurdling snarl as he leapt towards her, hands outstretched and sprouting razor sharp blades pointed towards the relaxed figure.
Just as he was so sure that the blades would pierce the fabric of the white coat, Hannah suddenly disappeared. Logan knew that he couldn’t stop in mid-leap and had to struggle with the disappointment.
“You’re very welcome.” Hannah’s cool voice sounded from his left. A cool hand reached up to his shoulder blade, pressing firmly against his feverish skin. All of a sudden, all the previous power had been drained from him, leaving Leopard howling miserably and him falling to the ground as the wind was knocked out of him. Once again, he could feel a bind on him. But this was no light hybrid seal, it was one a dark hybrid seal that had completely shut away every last connection that he had to Leopard’s power and even some of his own physical strength. She had completely rendered him useless. “But I don’t think you’ll be taking me on any time soon.” Logan got up, turning around to face the smug girl’s grin with a scowl of his own.
“What are you?” He hissed, Leopard’s voice interlacing with his own.
Hannah smiled, lifting up the back of her left hand, which was gloved. She pulled the fabric off, exposing a black feather over a crescent shape. “I am Hannah Mitternacht, the contractor of the Night Owl.” She announced.
Logan hissed frustratedly. She had won. Hannah Mitternacht had rendered him helpless. She had gain total control over him, no matter how much he hated to admit it. Logan Nuitchasse had finally found a superior, no, equal to him.

Hannah smiled, satisfied. She had done her job. She had taken the next step for Logan’s freedom. The light hybrid’s seal had been useless, but thanks to her spirit, Night Owl, she had been able to shut away most of Logan’s power. He was the first person that she really had full control over and she could tell that this would be fun. Logan was a naturally rebellious person, making it all the more interesting.
“Well, come on, I don’t have all day, you know.” She told Logan, eyeing him. Although the conditions in the holding camps weren’t good at all, Logan had managed to keep a good figure. From his leap before, Hans could also tell that he was in good shape and hadn’t lost any of the supposed stealth and power that he held. Good. Desmond des Crepuscule would be satisfied. Now to inform Alessandro and Kreuz and Adeline.
Hans stretched out her palm once more, creating a winged figure in the vague shape of a swallow. “Carry my message and bring aid.” She murmured to it, giving it a quick upwards flick of her hand to send the figure up into the air and out through the wall as if it was made out of no matter at all.
“What’re you doing that for?” Logan asked. Hans turned to face him. He had now stretched to his full height, almost a full head taller than she was. The violet eyes still held a murderous glint, but he wasn’t trying anything anymore. Perhaps he had become more wise and decided to conserve his energy for another try later. Good try, but it wouldn’t work.
She shrugged. “Orders.” She replied. She wasn’t about to let loose that she actually worked under, no, collaborated with another person.
“Who’s?” He asked again.
“Someone’s.” She replied, walking to the door. “Now come on unless you want to be left behind.” She ordered, changing the subject.
“No really, who’s orders are they?” Logan persisted as he followed her. “Hannah, tell me.”
“Don’t call me that!” Hannah snapped, whirling around on him. Logan took a startled step backwards. “Call me Hans, not Hannah.”
“Why?” Demanded Logan, narrowing his eyes irritatedly.
“Because.”
“But Hannah sounds better.”
“Does it look like I care?” Hannah shot back, placing her palm on the door. The feather flashed for a second and the door swung open. “Now come on.” She grabbed Logan’s hand and yanked him through the door.
“Hey! Let go of me!” He snapped back, jerked off balance. He had no chance to reply as the two light hybrids that had escorted Hannah were right outside.
“Hey! Where’s his seal?” One demanded, looking to the other.
“She’s trying to—” The other started frantically.
“Gentlemen.” Hannah said, reminding the flabbergasted men of her presence. “Would you please take a closer look.” She asked, slipping her glove back on furtively as she gestured towards Logan’s back.
The men did as told. “Oh…” they said awkwardly as they caught sight of the dark seal.
“Yes.” Hannah replied smoothly. “You can see that he’s no more threat, otherwise, you people wouldn’t have existed to see his face.” She added boldly, casting a sideward glance towards Logan.
“Yes, we’re sorry, Miss Mitternacht.” One nodded politely. “But you see, we’ve learned to be cautious around here be—”
“Yes I know, sir.” Hannah smiled knowingly. “Now may we please continue?” She asked pleasantly, aware that Logan was bristling with fury but had the sense to keep his mouth shut.

Moments later, Hannah led Logan out of the building, not having let go of his warm wrist for the entire while, so as not to raise suspicion. Only when the gates clanged shut behind them and they were out of sight did Hannah let go off Logan. She breathed out a huge sigh. That had been rather easy, but the harder part now was to get into contact with Kreuz, then later Desmond and manage to convince them that she had to take Logan back with her.
“Alright,” Hannah said as she whirled around, dropping Logan’s hand.
“Did you really have to hold me so tightly?!” Logan complained immediately, massaging his hand, scowling sullenly at her. “Seriously, you’ve put my hand to sleep and almost killed it!”
Hannah rolled her eyes. “I didn’t almost kill your hand, idiot. The minimum for your hand to have fallen asleep would be at least fifty times that amount.” She retorted.
“How would you know?” Logan demanded rebelliously.
“I’m a biochemist scientist, stupid. Of course I know these kinds of things.” Hannah replied, gesturing to herself. “And that was the only reason why I was able to get you out, because I’m damned popular with Professor Gleam.” She said, stabbing her finger towards Logan.
“Yeah, yeah, Miss Hannah Mitternacht the scientist who got me out. Can we please go now so that no one decides that they want to kill me because I am by far the most famous dark hybrid to have hit the newspapers in the past five years.” Logan replied, crossing his arms over his bare chest once more.
“And you, sir, need to get a shirt.” She added, glaring at him. “We are out in civilization here and it is required of you to wear a shirt.”
“Does it look like I care?” Logan shot back.
“Does it look like I care?” Hans retorted, putting her hands on her hips.
“Yes.” Logan replied simply.
“Exactly! Which is why you should be caring!” Hannah exclaimed.
“Here you go…” a soft voice said as a white piece of fabric descended over Logan’s head, making him look so startled that Hans burst out laughing uncontrollably. “Hey!” Logan protested, yanking the shirt off his head indignantly. “That’s not funny!”
“Yes it was!” Hans laughed, eyes tearing. “Your expression, oh, it was priceless!” She howled.
“You little—!” Logan started, whirling around to face the one that had made Hannah laugh and disgraced him. The sight that he saw wasn’t something that he expected to see. The boy was short, lean and lithe, yet his limbs looked powerful, like an animal much like himself. The only strange thing about him was his eye color; indigo and gray. No being of Cruzado had ever had mismatched eyes and the only one who he had ever heard a rumor of possessing such eyes were… “Kreuz…!” He said in awe, looking at the blond boy. The legendary warrior that had killed a mass of fifty nine people in five point eight five seconds. The one rumored to be uncontrollable and had to be kept under every chain link, every seal possible, even the Sunfire plant, which hadn’t killed him in the slightest bit. The boy was rumored to have died when the building where he was held in collapsed, but it was apparently untrue, for the legend himself stood before his very eyes.
“Logan Nuitchasse.” Kreuz nodded to the taller, dark hybrid.
“I see even you knew about Kreuz.” Hans broke the silent staring contest. “And I don’t hate to break this, but all of us, three power holders in the middle of nowhere will attract more than enough exile attention.
“Would I care?” Logan asked, switching his gaze back to Hans.
“You better.” She agreed. “You’re going to get back in there if anyone finds out about you.” She said, pointing to the Brightstar compound where they had emerged from.
“Let’s go.” Kreuz suggested.
“Lead the way.” Hans nodded with a smile.
At once, Kreuz set off, turning on his heel with a brief nod and started off, taking long strides that slowly quickened into a speedy run. Hans gave Logan a quick shove before she herself started after Kreuz. She was aware that Kreuz wasn’t going at his full speed, she smiled; Kreuz was a very considerate person for a young mass murderer. Perhaps all those years with Alessandro had an impact on him.
“Put it on!” Hans called to Logan.
“Fine!” He shouted back, slipping the white shirt on as he ran. Kreuz seemed oblivious to this exchange of words, but then again, he didn’t speak unnecessarily.
Hans recognized the direction that they were running in. It was the direction of one of Alessandro’s many hideouts in the city. It would be safe for a while as they figured out the next action step. She knew that Alessandro would want to present Logan to Desmond, but she needed him for his cover. She couldn’t blow it now.
“Where are we going?” Logan demanded.
“Somewhere!” Hans replied.
“You’re so helpful!” Logan complained.
“Not like I care so much for that!” Hans called back, thinking that Logan was a very inquisitive person. Perhaps overly inquisitive. Hans wondered if Desmond would appreciate a servant like that. Probably not. It was his own fault anyways, for insisting that the boy be brought to him.
Hans heard Logan snort midway through a breath. If he had the breath for that, he had to be in extremely good shape. Stupid light hybrids.
“Here we are,” Kreuz said as he skidded to a stop instead of slowing down. Hans always found it amusing that he preferred a more risky slow down. She herself took it slow, dropping down to a walk smoothly, like she had practiced so many times before. She went right up to the door of the building and pushed it open, despite its being locked.
“It was locked.” Logan stated as she swung the door inwards. So he had noticed too. He didn’t know her well enough to know much more than her name and her spirit.
Hans sighed, she’d have to clarify. “Alright.” She began. “Night Owl provides me with the ability to change the amount of energy within objects. I’ve sealed you to put a block on your powers and I can also ‘reverse’ time and somewhat restore the state of objects that are meant to move.” She said, pointing to the door.
“So you can bring someone back to life?” Logan asked dryly, although she could see the curiosity burning in both their eyes.
“No.” She replied shortly. “Unless I wanted to kill myself, which I don’t. Now come on, I’m not signing my death wish anytime soon.” She added, not even bothering to turn on the lights. Dark hybrids could see in the dark, unlike light hybrids. Hans knew that all three of them were accustomed to live in both light and dark without any difficulties, her being a part of light society, Logan having lived his whole life under intense brightness, and Kreuz… Night Owl had told her that he was the holder of two spirits, one light and one dark, and that was why.
“Alright Kreuz, what now?” They had made their way to the main room and now they had no real purpose.
“We should contact Lord Desmond.” He replied flatly.
Hans narrowed her eyes. “Should?” She prompted.
“I’ve already notified him.” Kreuz replied.
“How?” Logan asked, curious. He had never really seen Kreuz so much as make a move on the way and he had come so quickly that it was hard to believe that he had contacted the mysterious lord beforehand.
“I have my ways.” Kreuz replied quietly. “Lord Desmond should be here in about an hour.” He announced.
Seeing the look in Logan’s eyes, Hans quickly cut in. “He can sense our auras. Three powerful dark auras are easy to sense.” She said before he had the time to ask another question. “And knowing the Des Crepuscule family, they’re bound to have some knowledge about the area around here. They’re one crafty family.”
“And why exactly are we waiting for some dumb person like that?” Logan asked, raising one eyebrow somewhat moodily.
“Well, it was because of him that we had to take the trouble to bust you out.” Hannah began. “And that’s because he wants you,” she pointed at Logan, “to be his personal servant, bodyguard and all that crap, a bit like Kreuz.” She pointed at Kreuz, who merely stared.
“And why would I do that?” Logan demanded. “It’s not your job to decide who I have to serve and take the trouble to get me out of that thing.”
“Well, it’s because we need his help.” Hans decided to let Logan on the matter. She shot a glance at Kreuz who gave a brief, tiny nod. “You see, here’s how it goes:
“The light hybrids, as you might have figured out, have overthrown our world. Instead of the dark and light hybrids and humans living together in cooperation and more or less peace, the humans and light hybrids banded against the dark hybrids to end their reign in Cruzado. You see, at that time, the dark hybrids were reckless, corrupt power abusers, cruel to those that trespassed their territory—or so I’m brought to believe by the light hybrids and humans that I’ve been with. But most of this was propaganda, some of the hybrids were like that, the majority weren’t. Now you’ll ask, if there were only a few cases, why bother to take down the dark hybrids? Simple answer, they were power hungry. All the humans and hybrids, even exiles were power hungry, as is the nature of humankind, but for the light and dark hybrids, it was a different matter. Light and dark could never properly exist together, think of the night and the day, one besting the other, then the other catching up, the eternal power struggle, while the humans were just there to take sides. In the world that time, there had been raids on both light and dark hybrid territory and from the light hybrids’ point of view, they had no more space to support the growing population of the humans, who preferred living in the light hybrid territory, and themselves.
“At first they wanted to kick the humans out of their territory, but the humans themselves knew how to play their cards; they knew that the light hybrids and dark hybrids hated each other and they also knew that the light hybrid population was greater than the dark hybrids, being a whole lot more fertile than the dark hybrids were. They played with the light hybrids’ minds, eventually sparking them on enough for them to get their forces together and team up with the humans against the dark hybrids.
“A long dispute was sparked before the dark hybrids knew it. Over the years, the most powerful dark hybrid families were slowly being picked off, Noirluire, Dunkelstrahl, Nuitchasse, slowly the members of the dark force clans were being picked off over the years, but the full out war didn’t begin until the whole dark hybrid population had been severely decreased and weakened. Only then did they try to strike back without avail. Some families immediately turned themselves over to the light hybrids, demanding peace and a place in the new society, families such as the Des Crepuscule, Mondstrahl and Nuage, who were all accepted as allies of the light hybrids and traitors to the dark. Some families like Des Crepuscule even made it up to society’s leaders and would stay there—if their treachery wasn’t found out. Meanwhile, the dark hybrids had to deal with tragedy after tragedy, raid after raid, fighting until the last moment in hope that they could at least have some freedom and show the light hybrids that they weren’t going to be suppressed so easily. Unfortunately, that was their downfall. If they hadn’t sworn to fight to the last men, perhaps more of us would be alive and free instead of in camps, trained as weapons to benefit the light hybrids.” Hans’s voice snarled minutely in disgust as she thought of all the camps that she had been to. “And that was also the downfall of the last of the most powerful families that the dark hybrids had; Nachtloder, Marea, Indeminuit, they were all wiped out, except for Alessandro, who was some kind of special case. No one really knows his story and he never lets on.
“To cut the story short, basically a resistance is forming, causing trouble under the names of the exiles. Alessandro Indeminuit is leading this resistance with Loretta Mondstrahl as the key contact finder and Vincent Alptraum who does some kind of business that I believe has something to do with extermination. And that’s why we need you; you’re one of the most powerful dark hybrids and along with that, we need Lord Desmond Des Crepuscule’s information and status within the light hybrid society. He’s the key part of the plan to overthrow the light hybrids. He has all the information about who’s where, who’s the strongest and who’s the weakest. There was only so much that we could get from the Mondstrahl family, but we need more.” Hans ended, clapping her hands together and signaling the end of her speech.
“Interesting.” Logan commented dryly. “But it doesn’t concern me. I’m fine the way I am now, so I’ll just walk right out now…” His cool statement didn’t reach his eyes, both Kreuz and Hans knew that he was relishing a chance to strike back.
“I don’t think so.” Hans said, narrowing her eyes. “I have the power to stop you and you won’t get very far if there’s a restraint on Leopard.” She pointed out, lifting her left hand up, as if she was ready to issue another bind onto the dark hybrid.
Logan rolled his eyes. “Stubborn girl.”
“Good job, very good job indeed.” A new voice interrupted the conversation. The door swung open to reveal a tall figure, not thin, but average. Like all the high classed gentlemen, a top hat adorned his dark brown hair and threw a shadow over speculative, dark blue eyes. His posture was very erect, but not stiff and his left hand rested on an elaborate cane.
Hans nodded to the figure and touched a hand to her forehead, while Kreuz immediately dropped down onto his knee with a polite “my lord” and Logan just stood there, staring at the figure with an expression of puzzlement and resentment.
“Rise.” Desmond Des Crepuscule issued the command for relaxation and Kreuz immediately sprang up to his feet again. It seemed like the soft-spoken boy was the only one to treat the lord with the proper respect, but it didn’t seem that he minded. No one spoke, so the lord continued. “I must congratulate you for getting the boy—”
“My name is Logan!” Logan snapped rudely, earning him an agonized glance from Hans.
“—Logan Nuitchasse, back from the Brightstar prison under such short notice. As promised, I will grant Alessandro Indeminuit my aid.” Desmond scrutinized Logan as he announced his alliance and promise.
“So are we done yet?” Logan demanded, crossing his arms and glaring hostily at the confident figure, who narrowed his eyes.
“If you mean that we go, yes, I suppose we are.” He replied, only seeming slightly uncomfortable with Logan’s tone.
“Go where?” Logan asked. Hans and Kreuz shared a look; it was best if they didn’t intervene.
“Back to my mansion.” Desmond replied, seemingly patient.
“Why exactly?” Logan pressed on further.
“Because it is where I will have chartered lessons for you to be educated as a proper servant. Now let us go.” He ended with a sharp flourish meant to inspire fear and obedience.
“Servant?” Logan exploded with a snarl. “I’m no servant! And no way in hell am I going to be a servant to you!” He stabbed a finger in Desmond’s direction, having the sense not to go any closer.
Desmond Des Crepuscule’s eyes narrowed a considerable much more and his grip on the cane tightened. Hans winced, Logan had done it; the dark lord had lost his patience. “You will come with me right now, boy, do you hear me? Or else I will have you returned to that base where you can live the rest of your miserable life.” He snarled, taking a step forwards.
“Fine!” Logan spat back. “See how much I care!”
For a long, tense moment, both stood there, staring each other down, willing the other to make a move that would decide the fight. Even Hans and Kreuz didn’t dare to do a thing. Finally, Desmond broke the stare with a shake of his head.
“I’m afraid that I cannot use this boy here.” He informed Kreuz and Hans, looking rather dejected. Hans could understand; he would be tearing his hair out, trying to reason with the rebellious boy. “I am sorry to have taken your time to free him from his bound as a reasoning, but he is really of no use to me. You are free to do whatever you wish with him.” He ordered. Immediately, the tension lifted and Hans brightened. This was what she had been hoping for.
“Oh, it’s no problem, really!” She nodded vigorously. “In fact, the only reason I was able to bust him out was because I had used my research as an excuse. And because of that, I need him in the lab.” She added rather hesitantly.
“Ah, that is right.” Desmond suddenly exclaimed. “You are Hans Mitternacht of the Academy of Physical Sciences, aren’t you?” He asked, squinting at her and making out the logo on her white coat.
“The one and only.” Hans promised with a smile.
“Then he is entirely in your own command.” He nodded happily. “And I will not withdraw my promise; it is my wish as well as yours that the light hybrids be shown their own “mercy and patience” towards us.” For a moment, his eyes held a dark, malicious gleam, but was soon replaced with mere excitement. “I shall withdraw myself from your presence; and Kreuz, tell Alessandro Indeminuit that I have granted him my aid.”
“At once, my lord.” Kreuz replied, touching his fingertips to his forehead and moving back into the shadows and promptly disappearing into thin air.
“A fine boy he is.” Desmond murmured longingly after the blond haired boy as he backed out the door, leaving Hans and Logan alone. Once they were absolutely sure that the lord’s carriage had pulled out from the building, Hans breathed a sigh of relief and lay down on the table that she had found herself.
“I thought that would never end!” She sighed happily, closing her eyes.
“Bad enough.” Logan grumbled. “You weren’t the one about to be sold off.”
“I almost was, once upon a time.” Hans replied breathily.
“You? I doubt it.” Logan disagreed with a snort.
“I almost was.” Hans merely replied. “And since you wanted to go so badly, go ahead.” With that statement, she lay back, waiting for Logan to make some kind of movement, but after a long while, she spoke again, “Well, aren’t you going?”
“Why would I?” Logan replied gruffly. “You’ve sealed away all of my powers and I wouldn’t know what to do.” Hans smiled, almost breaking out into laughter. “It’s not funny!” Logan snapped uncomfortably.
“Yes it is.” Hans said, opening her eyes a fraction to stare into Logan’s violet ones.
“Hannah Mitternacht.” He shook his head. “Really, your sense of humor is warped.”
“Oh, no. I think yours is.” She retorted. “And you know, you can call me Hans.”
“No thank you, I still think that Hannah is a prettier name.” Logan replied with a cynical smile.
“Whatever.” Hans grinned, getting back to a sitting position on the table.
“So, what now?” Logan asked.
“What about we go?” Hans suggested.
“Good idea.” Logan smiled, stretching out his hand and pulling Hans off the table and onto her feet.

[Little Sparrow]

Phase Six;

Alessandro had a good view of the sun from here. He was able to stare into its pinkish depths and scrutinize every last bit of orange pink that he could see, painting the sky a crisscross of gold, orange and indigo. A sight that he had seen so many times, but couldn’t get enough of. It was beautiful to see, but ironically powerful. It was this very scene once that he had decided to build a resistance, an intense hatred that had driven him on, against all odds, towards his goal.
And now, he was so close to it. So close that no one could stop him. The light hybrids didn’t know a thing about him and he was so close to victory. The chaos that he would cause wouldn’t even be comparable to what the light hybrids had enforced onto them.
Of course not. Since when was he, Alessandro Indeminuit, son of Edmonda and Benedetto Indeminuit equal to those lying, cheating light hybrids? Never. He had, and would best them, once and for always. Then they would know truly what patience and mercy was. He had shown it once, he could show it again. But right now, he needed Desmond Des Crepuscule’s help. The dark lord was an incredibly secretive person and it had taken Alessandro almost two whole years to track him down and earn him a chance of an alliance. He had already earned Loretta’s, Vincent’s, Hans’s and so many others’ alliances that Desmond Des Crepuscule was the very last piece to the puzzle, of course, next to Adeline, his final trump.
At the thought of the daylight knight, Alessandro experienced a peculiar feeling, like a mix between fear, joy and adoration. During all the years of research on daylight knights, he had read up about her, seen memories of her, known so much about her that it was like he was a stalker, but he wasn’t. He was just so devoted to his cause that he had taken the trouble to make sure that she was the right one for the job; all the others had fallen short for a long, long way. Even after meeting her, her fiery temper and will hadn’t discouraged him at all. It showed that she had the courage to stand up and judge him for what he was, instead of the stereotypes that the light society was led to believe. In fact, he looked up to her, and so far, she was proving to be a valuable ally.
But how would she react to his memories? Alessandro was thrown into a mass of confusion and doubt. His memories were supposed to be something that he didn’t want to show anyone, but he had felt the urge to show them to her. He knew that it could cause her mental discomfort, he knew that he might destabilize her mental condition, but he had done it anyways. He had followed his intuition. Now half a week had passed and he had barely talked to her, being so caught up in reports and instructions and giving her time to sort her thoughts out. Experiencing memories of blood and gore wasn’t exactly the best remedy to doubt and wavering loyalties, but he had been sure, so sure that his memories would have pulled her over to his side.
But now that it was taking so long, doubts had resurfaced once more. No matter how many times he had tried to distract himself from the daylight knight, he had been drawn back to her as she clouded up his very thoughts. Maybe he did care for her more than he had ever intended to. He had never intended the mention of “lady” to slip during their first meeting, he had only been contemplating that, but he knew that he had scared her.
“My lord.” Kreuz’s smooth, quiet voice broke through his thoughts.
“Huh?” Alessandro said, blinking and looking around, shaken awake from his reverie by his servant.
“You have not been thinking about Miss Adeline again, have you?” Kreuz asked, moving into Alessandro’s spectrum of sight.
“Well, not really, it’s just this and that, you know…” Alessandro trailed off helplessly as Kreuz fixed his penetrating indigo-blue and gray stare onto him. “Ok, I have.” He admitted, caving in under the boy’s pressure. Kreuz was the only one that he would ever admit everything to. He’d understand, he always did. “And so, what’s the news?”
“Lord Des Crepuscule grants you his aid, but he has not accepted Logan; he proved to be too much of a hotheaded person.” Kreuz informed him. “But Hans has taken him with her, as part of her guise.” He concluded.
Alessandro grinned heartily. His joy was so intense that he went giddy for those few moments. “Yes…!” He murmured, seeming almost lunatical. “Yes! Finally!” he crowed in victory. “It’s so close, so close that I can—”
Before Alessandro got to finish his sentence, a quiet, but firm nod sounded on the door. Kreuz immediately retreated. Alessandro frowned. What a time to interrupt, especially on his victory rant. “Come in!” He said, somewhat sharply.
“Thank you.” A soft, feminine voice replied as the door swung open.
Alessandro gave an internal start; it was Adeline. “Ah, good evening, Adeline.” He said, turning around from his armchair to face the daylight knight and her handmaid. Adeline looked quite bedraggled, but Lily’s effort of trying to clean up the mess of brown hair. Instead of the meek look that her posture held, her green eyes bore defiance and determination. Adeline wanted something from him and Alessandro didn’t know what, which worried him a little. Why had Kreuz left? He met Lily’s eyes; they were helpless and defeated. She had obviously tried to convince Adeline not to approach, but couldn’t stop her from doing so.
Adeline came in, leaving Lily to shut the door behind her. She planted herself in front of Alessandro with a firm look in her eyes.
“Yes, Adeline?” Alessandro asked, struggling to keep the involuntary, unnecessary fear out of his voice.
The daylight knight took a deep breath. “Alessandro.” She began. “I want you to show me the rest of your memories.” She stated.
Alessandro’s eyes widened in shock. This wasn’t at all what he had expected from her. She wanted the rest of his memories? But he had showed her all, hadn’t he? “What-what memories?” He asked, confused.
Adeline shook her head impatiently. “Come on, Alessandro, you know what I mean. Your memories after you were captured, the place that you were brought to!”
“You mean the… concentration camp?” Alessandro asked, truly afraid now. The thing that Adeline was asking… those were the memories that he wanted to keep locked away, he never intended to unseal them from the safe that he had kept them in, but that was exactly what Adeline was asking for.
Adeline flinched a little at the words “concentration camp” but otherwise didn’t falter. “Yes, I do mean that.” She confirmed unnecessarily. “Now hurry up, please.” She added forcefully.
“Lily…” Alessandro looked to Adeline’s assigned servant, but the green eyed girl shook her head.
“I’m sorry.” She muttered, a helpless, apologetic look in her eyes.
Suddenly realization dawned in Alessandro’s eyes. That was why Kreuz had left, he didn’t want to show her his memories, but it was too late for him. He was left with no choice. “Alright.” He said reluctantly, pulling off a glove and holding his hand out to her. Adeline took it, already knowing the process. Alessandro stared straight into the daylight knight’s eyes. A flicker of doubt flowed through her, until he located the memories…

Once again, Adeline felt herself unable to move of her free will. At least this time she knew what was happening. After much thinking, she had finally decided to ask Alessandro to share the memories of what had happen after he was captured. She had heard that the dark hybrids were just detained, but Alessandro’s memories had caused doubt to spark in her. Alessandro was sitting on some kind of hard bunk, covered by a layer of foam that was five centimeters thick and seemed already worn down to feel like nothing. The bunk was hard and he barely had space. At least his bunk was right at the top of the three levels, each housing one on its width, barely over half a meter and length, two meters. Pathetic. It was impossible to lounge around here. The light hybrids always found something for you to do, and if you didn’t…
Alessandro winced. He could still feel the large, angry red whelps on his back that he had gotten as a punishment for refusing to make his bed. Stupid light hybrids. It seemed that all they wanted to do was make his life miserable, make him wish that he had died along with everyone else at Fort Cetus half a year ago. He curled up his lip, glaring at the wooden wall angrily. Only a year ago, his life had been perfect. He had a good twelfth birthday, he constantly went on expeditions and trained with Nightrise and he had entered his next year of schooling. The light hybrids sure knew how to ruin everything.
“Oi! You! Boy!” A rough voice yelled from the doorway.
Alessandro winced and bit back a sharp retort. He had already been punished for his all too many smart retorts and another round with the whip wasn’t his ideal start of his sentence. He swung his legs over the bunk and jumped down, landing on the ground with barely a sound as he ignored his back’s protests. “Yes?” He replied, trying to keep the venom out of his voice as he looked up at the light hybrid. “Sir.” He added after a moment’s thought.
The light hybrid grunted. “Clear the roads.” He ordered, turning around promptly and stomping out not too softly.
Alessandro just managed to bite back a volley of insults and rage. The stupid man had worn his boots in, making muddy footprints over the entire length of the floor that he had walked across. That meant that he had to wipe that up too, way to make others’ lives miserable. He thought murderously as he went to retrieve one of the many rags that lay about. If only his parents had succeeded, he wouldn’t have to live in this stinking excuse of a dump.
Of course, the first thing that he had realized when he had come to his senses was that he wasn’t wearing his normal shirt anymore. This one was rough and scratchy, totally unlike the shirt that he usually wore. Here, they weren’t even allowed to wear gloves or even proper shoes. So this was the life of peasants. Actually, even peasants were better off than they were; this was slave work, pathetic for one who had never had to get anywhere close to mopping up the floors. His parents didn’t even care much for extreme tidiness. It was do what you will. If you can’t tough it out, clean it, but they rarely gave him instructions to actually clean the floor – or anything else – unnecessarily. With all that grumbling in mind, Alessandro dropped down to his knees, muttering crossly as he proceeded to clean up all the mess that the stupid light hybrid had made. This holding camp was the worst nightmare anyone could ever have, and Alessandro had the feeling that he wasn’t getting out of here any time soon. Yes, he had attempted to escape, but with no avail. Before he could even go two steps out of the building, he had been thrust back in, not too gently either. He resented, loathed, hated this place, any negative adjective that ever could be thought of could be used for this dump.
Suddenly the thoughts skipped ahead to dinner. Alessandro had just come back from the graveled path, spattered with rain, in time for some food. Only, it wasn’t the food that he wanted, but expected. Usual brownish, reddish mush that didn’t taste like anything to his knowledge, not a good thing. But in spite of going hungry, he rather eat it. After a couple of days of fasting, fatigue had caught up with him and he found that he wasn’t able to keep up with the slave labor that the detention minders had made him do. Conclusion? Eat no matter what they serve you. You needed the energy.
Basically, camp life was like that, throughout the three years, three months and three days exactly that he had been in the camp. He had actually counted all the days, making marks in the wood of his bunk, right beneath his mattress. Once he got word that they were about to leave, he took the trouble to count up the thousand over tallies, (bumping his head about twenty times on the ceiling as he had a growth spurt).
He was getting out, finally. But the strange coincidence of three years, months and days was freaking out, and throughout his walk out of the heavy gates, he was puzzling over the coincidence, and if it meant anything to him or not.
And then, abruptly, the memories ceased, leaving Adeline floundering confusedly. These memories were so much shorter than the ones that Alessandro had shown her before. When she came back to her senses, she looked at Alessandro, curious as to see what reason he had for hiding some of the truth from her.
Instead of the smug I-told-you-so expression, he seemed lost in thought, an expression of pain on his face. Adeline herself hadn’t experienced any kind of “painful memories”, but whatever Alessandro was feeling, he hadn’t shared it with her.
“Alessandro?” Adeline asked softly. But the man’s green eyes were glazed over. He wasn’t paying any attention to her. A small spark of uncertainty ignited within her, but before it could grow, Alessandro broke out of his reverie.
He blinked a couple of times. “Oh, uh, right.” He muttered to himself, looking at Adeline, then Lily. “Those weren’t too bad, were they?” He asked hesitantly.
Adeline shook her head. “No they weren’t.” She agreed. “But obviously, whatever you were experiencing was bad.” She jabbed a finger at Alessandro, narrowing her eyes suspiciously.
Alessandro sighed and shook his head, a sudden weariness overcoming him. “Not now, Adeline, not now.” He murmured. Adeline could tell that now wasn’t a good time to argue with him.
It took all of Adeline’s willpower not to ask a question and ruin it all. “Ok then.” She allowed grudgingly, catching Lily’s eye.
“Well, do you need anything else from me?” Alessandro asked, arching his eyebrows in question.
“Um, no.” Adeline admitted, somewhat hesitantly. “Well, I’ll be taking my leave, then…” She turned around to go, but Alessandro stopped her. “Wait.” He commanded, turning around to face Lily. “You too.” He added.
“Yes?” Adeline asked, wondering why he had stopped them.
“I have something to report to you. As members of the Resistance, you have a right to know this.” Alessandro looked at both Adeline and Lily in turn. “Kreuz has just reported to me that Logan Nuitchasse is out of the Brightstar prison and we have gained Lord Desmond Des Crepuscule’s aid. Logan is not under the Des Crepuscule house, but is going with Hans for her cover.” He explained. “I’m guessing that it will take a while for all the information that we need to come, a week’s time is the fastest that it will get here, if not, two. That means we still have a while to prepare. Tea anyone?” Alessandro added with a playful gleam in his eyes.
Adeline managed to smile on this one. “Why not.” She replied.