Part 32: Lesson

With a hopeful smile on her face, Chiasa leaves the apartment and nearly bumps into a concerned Kain. “Oh,” she sighs, “I’m surprised that you didn’t barge into the apartment.” “I thought about it.” he admitted, with a nod, “So, how did it go?” “I’m not sure.” Chiasa shrugs, “This may be a start of their rebirth… or the beginning of their own death. Only time will tell.”

In a few days time, Chiasa and Kain did ease the pain and fears of Heather and Jordan. Within many heated discussions, Jordan’s dislike for the humans began to lessen. “I don’t understand it, Kain.” he said simply, one evening as all four sat in front of the tv in Kain’s apartment, “I don’t understand any of this… the protection of humans. And with you and Chiasa being so kind toward us. I mean, we are your enemies-” “Were our enemies.” corrected Kain, passing a bowl of popcorn to Chiasa, “Things have changed now.”

Jordan nods, but continues, “Yes, that’s true. Things have changed. Heather and I were once your greatest threat, yet we had fallen and failed. One doesn’t normally give a hand to their fallen enemies, help them to their feet, and befriend them.” “It’s called ‘mercy’.” grins Kain, a playfulness in his eyes, “Something invented by the humans.” Heather eyes grows large, as Jordan gasps in shock. “I would imagine that this would be a shock to you.” says Kain, holding his own chin, “But you already know the evils of humans, what great hatred and destruction they may hold. But it’s time you’ve learned the good of humans too.

“Friendship, mercy, and love… it is all within the human soul. The gods themselves had created the humans in this way. This is why humans are so fragile and much weaker than us. Because they posess something true, a great warmth, that we could never have naturally inside of us. The gods created us for one function and it was to hunt and erase the mistake of Ezekiel and his demons. So, it is only natural within us, that we move without love or mercy, but of certainty and brutality. However, it’s not all hopeless with us. It’s not our instinct to respond to things with love or mercy, but to attack it, to finish the task. But with protecting humans, we can and do learn of their ways, that not everything can be simply solved with death… that some things can be solved with life.”

“I see…” says Jordon, in deep thought, “That is a strange concept, yet it has a ring of truth within it. It seems very plausible. Is this why you protect the humans, then? Because of their ideas of mercy, love, and friendship?” “In a way,” shrugs Kain, “But not entirely. I think my need to protect them is a lot more complicated. For one, The Source focuses on our weakness to take control, using fear and hatred of the demons to lure us over to his philosophy that all humans must die. Unlike you and Heather, I had spent most of my existence following the instinct of my creation, to protect the humans and to hunt down The Source. Also to aid Chiasa and to protect her as well, for our original mission from the gods.

“Had The Source reached Chiasa and I earlier in our existence, we may have been prone to follow it and deviate from our path. Since that is not the case, Chiasa and I have spent many centuries on one path, experiencing the ugliness of humans, as well as the beauty within them. We are well aware what we are fighting for, so our choice is much more clearer. We don’t protect the humans for their frailties or their evil-will… We protect the humans for the good that we have seen in them and potential of the good-will, that we know that they all possess.”

Heather remembers the time, back when Jordan and her was no older than Chiasa, in growing teen bodies many centuries ago. Jordan and herself were under the care of the secret government organization, assigned to a foster family. Though, unlike Chiasa, it was before the technology of mind control. Their foster family knew of who they were, creatures that are not quite human, here to fight demons. Yet, this foster family of four did not accept the two teens and there was much prejudice and mistrust.

One day, a young Heather decided to collect flowers in the garden of her foster home, a mansion on the edge of Germany. A young son, by the name of Vince, decided to harass her along with his older sister, Gwen. “Look at that thing,” he spat, as Heather collected two very beautiful pink roses, “As if it could appreciate the beauty of God’s creations.” “Yes,” nods Gwen, “A creature from Hell could never get the grasp of something so simple. I bet the flowers will wilt from the evil within her hands.”

“Leave her alone.” barks Jordan, “You two should be grateful of us. If we didn’t exist, you and your family would be lost within the teeth and claws of the demons. Your precious garden here and your estate would be burned to the ground!” “Is that a threat!?” roars Gwen, stepping forward. “No,” huffs Jordan, taking a step in turn, ”It’s a fact. And you’ll do well to remember it!” “Jordan,” gasps Heather, tugging at his sleeve, trying to calm him down, “It’s okay.” “No, it’s not!” he growls, “I am tried of these ungrateful humans, looking down on us, harassing us. Even their own government know of our importance and treats us with respect! We put our lives on the line, protecting them and their precious items, at least they could do is to leave us alone and give us some peace!”

“Filth!” spat Vince, “You are slaves, the government doesn’t respect you, no more than a master respects it’s hunting dog! You are only allowed to be, because you are weapons against other filth, like yourself. Now take a step away from my sister, you have no right to challenge her in that way!” “That’s right!” Gwen roared, “Stay in your place, slave!” She strikes Heather, knocking her to the ground, the flowers are strewn across the ground. Heather cries, her face bruised and her knee bleeding from the fall.

“Hmm,” growls Jordan, grabbing Vince quickly, his eyes full of fire, “You are religious, so here’s something you may understand, Gwen! An eye for an eye…” He breaks Vince’s arm and tossed the young boy to the ground. “Sister!” he cries, as Gwen rushes over to her brother, horrified. “Monsters!” she shrieks, picking up her brother and running him toward the mansion. Jordan turns and grabs Heather’s hand, pulling her up on her feet.

“You shouldn’t have done that.” she cried, falling into his arms, “We’re going to get in trouble.” “But they had no right!” yells Jordan, holding her tightly, shaking with tears, “I am suppose to protect you from the demons… but how can I not protect you from the humans? I’m sure that Morioka will understand and find a better foster home for us.” “No.” says a lion-like voice, “They will not understand and you may be thrown away, like useless toys.”

Heather and Jordan notices the man, with the white hair, approaching them a slight look of approval on his face. “What do you want?” growls Jordan, standing in front of Heather to protect her from The Source. “Relax.” Ezekiel waves, “I am not here to fight… I am here to save you and to free you, with the simple truth…”

Part 31: Rebirth

“Well,” nudged Kain, “There is a silver lining in all of this. They may be afraid now, but their eyes have been opened. There is a good chance that they will step away from the false prophet and join our side of the war. In other words, they will live and will be saved.” Chiasa gives a sad, yet hopeful smile. She hates the way and circumstances that these two will be saved under… but she’ll take it, for now…

The next morning, Chiasa heads for Jordan and Heather’s apartment, armed with a platter of Kain’s breakfast of bacon, eggs, and freshly cut grapefruit. She had convinced him to stay behind and let her do the gesture of good-will, alone. Now, she wondered if this was a good idea, going to the apartment of two former Ezekiel followers. “Too late to back out now.” she sighs and knocks on the door. There is a flicker behind the peep-hole of the door, a pause, and then the sounds of the locks being undone.

A very drained Jordan opens the door, looking very pale and ten years older than usual. “Chiasa.” he simply says, as a greeting. “How are you?” she asks, concerned, “I came to check on you and Heather. And I bought you two some breakfast.” “That’s very… kind.” says Jordan, sounding a little surprised, “Please, come in.” Chiasa steps into the apartment, the door closing behind her, as Kain peeks from their apartment. He stays calm, keeping his senses open for any trouble.

Jordan deftly carries the platter to the kitchen, with a nervous Chiasa following. “Where’s Heather?” she asks, wringing her hands, “Is she okay?” “We’ll both heal.” waves Jordan, then turns to face the nervous girl, resting against the counter as he does so, “But… our other wounds will take some time. It no use pretending here, Chiasa. You know of where we come from, who we’ve worked for, and of the betrayal last night.”

Chiasa gasps, eyes large, feeling that maybe she has walked into a very dangerous situation now. “Don’t worry,” he huffs, in bitter defeat, “We’re obviously no threat now, as our Master has abandoned us, for whatever reason. We have no purpose here, anymore. And if you and Kain decide to do us in, then it would only be a favor to us, at this point.” “No!” shouts Chiasa, stepping forward, “Don’t say that! The Source is nothing but pure evil, it has no loyalties to anyone but itself. I am sorry that you and Heather were fooled, and that you two got hurt, but there is a purpose for you!”

Jordan grins and waves away Chiasa’s words, “An highly romantic notion… that part of you, that hasn’t awaken, is very dramatic.” “You should talk!” she growls, “I’ve come to make peace with you both and all you can do is ask for death. And to make pronouncements that if Ezekiel and demons turn against you, then you’re not worth living. Do you even hear yourself? Did you really think that something so dark, something that the gods themselves sought to destroy, would be loyal to you? Is is really a shock that The Source decided that you two were no longer needed and tried to wipe you both away?”

“It is.” he nods, standing up straight, anger in his eyes and voice, “It is a shock! Because we expected this from the HUMANS, not the most powerful of our kind! We were his children! His brethren! And Heather and I were trying our all, to carry out his mission! Sure, we had failed! We had underestimated you and Kain, greatly. But… why? Why didn’t our Master just call us back and send in someone else? Why did he try to wipe us away? We had been under his care for centuries! Doesn’t that mean anything!?”

There is a sniffle behind them and they turn to see Heather, covered in bandages, the pain deep within her eyes. Jordan covers his face, frustrated and ashamed for having such a outburst in front of her. Chiasa warmly grabs Heather’s hand, giving her a soft smile. “Listen,” she says, hopeful in her words, “I could never imagine the pain that you two must be feeling. But the truth is out now. The Source has no loyalties or any care… It only cares for himself and his lust to kill all humans.

“I know you can’t see it know, but the humans are worth saving. Maybe they would try and turn on us after, but we shall deal with it, when it comes to it. For now, I am grateful that you two didn’t share the same fate of the other two, before you. At this point, you two can heal and be on the right side of this war. You’ve always have me and Kain as a friend, you know. And we don’t throw away or use others to our own selfish means. Even if you decide to not join this war, that’s okay too. We will protect you both.”

Jordan frowns, “I don’t need Kain’s protection! And I can protect Heather on my own!” “Jordan,” sighs Heather, leaning onto Chiasa, “That’s not what she meant. They’re offering friendship and to help us in a jam, if one should come up… like… last night.” Jordan calms down, blushing slightly. “You’ve always been the one who was most prideful of us two.” Heather says, her voice faraway, “We are both very prideful, it’s true… and that was our weakness… and our failure too. I think it’s time for us to leave the pride alone and to try it a different way. I mean, we could stay bitter that The Source turned on us and cast us away, and just fade away. Or, we could decide to do things differently now… to accept the hand of Chiasa and fight on the other side of this.”

“Protect the humans?” spat Jordan, disgusted. “I don’t care for those creatures either.” sighs Heather. “Well,” says Chiasa, feeling a little awkward, “I do care for the humans, only because some have cared for me. I know the love of being with them, of having a family life with them, of being best friends with them. But, I must admit that I don’t trust all humans. And if that’s what it is… it’s okay. You don’t have to trust them, befriend then, love them… just protect them.”

“It’s an odd notion.” waves Jordon, “To protect the very beings that I have so much hate and disgust for.” “We won’t decide right away.” says Heather, with a shrug, “Chiasa, just give us some time, okay?” “Sure.” says Chiasa, hopeful, “I’ll leave you two alone to think. And enjoy the breakfast, Kain is a very good cook.”

With a hopeful smile on her face, Chiasa leaves the apartment and nearly bumps into a concerned Kain. “Oh,” she sighs, “I’m surprised that you didn’t barge into the apartment.” “I thought about it.” he admitted, with a nod, “So, how did it go?” “I’m not sure.” Chiasa shrugs, “This may be a start of their rebirth… or the beginning of their own death. Only time will tell.”

Part 30: Betrayal

Kain quickly slides into flight, plunging his sword into Jordan’s attacker. Chiasa followed suit, getting the upper-hand on the demon that had Heather’s blood on it’s breath. “What’s going on?”, Chiasa’s frighten mind screams, “Why are the demons attacking the Source’s henchmen!?” All four battled together, trying their best to stay alive, from the demon-horde attacks. Kain is distressed, as he realizes that there are at least a hundred demons surrounding them, more than they’ve ever encountered in one given time…

At the end of the fight, Kain and Chiasa only had minimum wounds, a thankful outcome to a very brutal fight. Many of the slain demons were already melting and disappearing down the storm-drains. A great number of bodies, just fallen, lay in wait from the same fate. Chiasa’s stomach did a loop, disgusted by the smell and scene of death, all around her. “Are you guys okay?” offers Kain, to Jordan and Heather. “We’re fine!” barks Jordan, as Heather weeps silently, his pride obviously hurt.

“What happened here?” asks Kain, still confused. It was very apparent that this was no plan of Jordan and Heather, this wasn’t suppose to happen, in this way. Kain could guess that the number of demons and the location, was meant for a blood-bath of himself and Chiasa. Or at least, a test of their skills, to find weaknesses and so on. But the demons, for some unknown reason, decided to turn on their comrades and quite violently. If Kain had decided to be reckless and not think of innocent lives, to not show up for an obvious trap, Jordan and Heather would have surely died tonight.

“It was The Source’s plan,” frowns Jordan, answering Kain’s question and helping Heather to her feet, “This is my guess. He sent many to do us in, for whatever reason. It’s over now. We’re going home.” Heather is badly hurt, her arm broken and bleeding, as she leaned against Jordan in tears. Jordan is also badly hurt, a huge wound in his back and blood dripping from the gash on his forehead. “Maybe you two should head for Morioka.” nods Chiasa, “Those wounds look pretty bad.” “We’ll handle it ourselves.” said Jordan coldly, sending chills down her spine.

“Jordan…” says Kain, a lot worried for the two. “Just…” he said, turning himself and Heather toward home, “Just leave us alone. We’ll be fine.” They both walk off into the darkness, leaving a very confused Chiasa and Kain behind…

“Why?” sobs Heather, sitting on the edge of the bathtub of their apartment, some moments later, “Why did they betray us? Why did Master betray us?” The floors are covered in drops of blood, as Jordan tries to nurse his and hers wounds, dipping a blood soaked towel into the sink once again. “I don’t know.” he says, sadly, “I don’t get it! Everything fell apart tonight, and I just don’t know why!”

Earlier, as the two made their newest plan, they had walked the streets and finally settled on that spot. It was dark and secluded enough, to conjure up the demon hordes, a perfect battle ground. Heather had cheerfully called in the aid of a hundred demons, praying and dancing for them to appear, as Jordan got his thoughts together. The horde had obeyed and showed up quickly. Both knew that they only had a few minutes, before Kain and Chiasa would come calling, so they had to move quickly.

In the demon’s own language, Jordan had instructed for the small army to only seriously maim Kain and Chiasa, making sure to not kill them, but make it impossible for them to not escape the need for hospitalization. As Jordan had plotted with Heather earlier, in the apartment, “We need to only make them immobile for a while. They will be vulnerable and that’s when we’ll both be nothing but caring ‘friends’, nursing them back to health. Their suspicions will drop, greatly.

“From there, we’ll manipulate the other two, Kirk and Judy. Make sure they don’t show up for hospital visits much and even after. We’ll make it seem as if Kirk and Judy do not care much, but for themselves. And then Kain and Chiasa will rely on us much more. Once we’ve gained their trust, the plan will be back on it’s course. It’s a lot harder this way, a little longer to do, but the mission will not be lost.” “Sounds like a good plan to me!” cheered Heather, “Who could really worry about plots or give into suspicions, when one is badly hurting? With them out of commission, it will be a lot more easier to dispel any harsh thoughts or ideas!”

And with this plan in mind, Jordan grinned to himself, satisfied that the demons were ready. He turned toward Heather, “Now let’s slink into the shadows and be hidden. They don’t need to see us here, as that would ruin everything, of course. We can enjoy the show from-” A demon slashed Jordan in the back, sending a sharp pain up his spine! “Wait!” growls Heather, turning to the demon, “What are you-!?” The demons began attacking them, covering them in a frenzy of claws and teeth…

“What happened?” cries Heather, slumping from the edge of the tub, and landing softly on the floor, ”Did Master decide that we had failed? Has he turned his back on us?” “No!” growls Jordan, “He would never turn on his children! We are his soldiers! We are his servants! He must have a reason for this! I know that he…” Jordan stops, looking down into the sad and empty eyes of Heather. He knew what she knew, and no matter how brave he tried to be or how much he tried to cling to his loyalty to the Source, he had to face the truth… They had been betrayed.

Chiasa and Kain sat on the end of their bed, still in awe. “I never thought that The Source was this cold.” shrugs Kain, “I mean, It is evil, sure… But to turn against it’s own henchmen…” “Yeah,” sighs Chiasa, “That is odd and beyond evil, even for Ezekiel.” “Please, Chiasa.” frowns Kain, “Stop giving that THING a name… it’s disturbing. Especially, as what it has done to Jordan and Heather… I actually feel sorry for them.”

“I feel sorry for them also.” nods Chiasa, ignoring Kain’s complaint about the name, “I bet they only joined Ezekiel, out of the fear of humans. And now they’ve learned tonight, that he can be more devastating than any human, and he has no love or loyalty. I bet they feel so very afraid and lost, losing a savior that was suppose to protect them from their fears… and now fearing the savior himself.” “Well,” nudged Kain, “There is a silver lining in all of this. They may be afraid now, but their eyes have been opened. There is a good chance that they will step away from the false prophet and join our side of the war. In other words, they will live and will be saved.” Chiasa gives a sad, yet hopeful smile. She hates the way and circumstances that these two will be saved under… but she’ll take it, for now…

Part 29: Risk

At the complex, they said their goodbyes, and each couple headed for apartment. After a few minutes of silence, behind the closed door, Chiasa turned to Kain in anger. “What kind of Keeper are you!?” she growls, hitting him, “Why did you go so far? Do you know what kind of risk you’ve put us in? What’s wrong with you!?” “Chiasa,” he sighs, “Calm down. I know what I’m doing.” “What ARE you doing?” she spat, giving him a dark stare…

“They already know that we know.” nods Kain, “Though, I am trying to point out the foolishness of their choice, in order to make them think hard about it. Obviously they are just blindly following the Source, over the fear of humans. It is what you wanted, right? To save them? Well, we better try now, as later on, it will be harder to do. Right now, they are plotting and scheming, and going along with the Source’s wishes.” “But you’ve really pissed them off!” yells Chiasa, her voice full of fear, “We’re suppose to be careful and this isn’t being careful at all! It’s reckless!”

“True…” nods Kain, with a slight grin, “I did piss them off and that’s a good thing. It means what I’ve said will stick in their minds more. And it’s true that this is reckless. But I think that’s the only way we’re going to win this, at this point. As we approached the car, I had sense it was their plan all along, to leave us alone with Kirk and Judy,  so that we may plan with them. So what we had thought to do with Kirk and Judy, is not valid anymore, at this point. So, we’re going to have to play this by ear. I thought to throw in that little stone, in the scheme of things. The worse thing about the Source and it’s minions, is their pride. It’s their weakness.”

“I see…” says Chiasa, calming down, “So, our previous plan will not work… to make an appearance that a friendship has broken.” “No,” nods Kain, “The Source is very clever. It has planned for this too. But don’t worry, Chiasa. I have a different plan… and in this one, I am hoping with you, that these two will reconsider. Otherwise, there will be bloodshed of more of our kind.” Chiasa looks to the floor, feeling drained.

In the apartment across the hall, Jordan and Heather are having similar realizations. “This isn’t going to be easy,” sighs Heather, tossing her jacket onto the plush red sofa, “Is it?” “Damn them!” growls Jordan, losing his patience, “It seems that they are just too clever for their own good! I had to dig my nails into my palm, just to keep from permanently wiping that smug grin off Kain’s face!” “This would be the time to talk with Master.” nods Heather, “Though he warned us to not come back, any time soon…”

“I know.” sighs Jordan, collapsing into a chair, “Precautions must be taken… yet, I wonder if it’s even necessary, since they know everything about us and where we’ve come from. I don’t understand how… As that block put on us, the hidden secret of our origins and intentions, even without key information they have still managed to figure it out!” “I would say that it’s a sign of sloppy work.” says Heather, sternly. “But, where did we fail?” frowns Jordan, “That’s what I want to know! We were so careful!”

“Perhaps we were too careful.” nods Heather, in deep thought, “Maybe that was what tipped them off. We had forgotten, that these ones have been around the weak humans often. Humans are so full of flaws and they are never perfect. I think, that maybe, in us being the perfect beings that we are, we had unnerved them and caused some suspicion. After all, if one was to be around humans so long, the flaws of the weak is bound to rub off on the naturally perfect.” Jordan sighs and shakes his head, “I never counted that in, as a factor.” “Neither did I.” nods Heather, “There is where we failed.”

“Well,” grins Jordan, “Then I am grateful that we don’t have the permission to see Ezekiel. Our heads would surely roll for such a simple mistake.” “We may still be in jeopardy,” frowns Heather, sitting on his lap, “If we don’t fix this and fast. If the mission fails…” “Don’t worry.” he grins, a devious plan in his mind, “I do have another plan, one that will work. But, you must do exactly what I say.” “Okay.” smiles Heather.

The night air grows thick with an familiar darkness. Chiasa is uneasy and looks to the door of her apartment, while sitting on the couch with Kain in the next room. “Kain,” she asks, her body stiff, ”Do you feel that?” “Yeah.” he nods, standing to his feet, “Demons are in the city. No doubt this is a plan from our new ‘friends’.” “Are we going then?” asks Chiasa, not sure this is a good idea. “We have no choice,” he nods, grabbing the swords, “They’re forcing our hand, for whatever display they are planning. If we don’t show up, innocent humans will die, of course.”

Moving swiftly through shadows, Kain and Chiasa travel by foot through the city, heading for a small street a few blocks away from their home. On this street, there is only a few small houses, dark windows as their occupants are fast asleep for the night. At the other end of the street, without street-lamps, a horde of demons are stirring. It seems that the demons already had prey, as clawing and struggling can be heard.

Kain and Chiasa move in closer, toward the busy black mass of movement and fighting, expecting to find a frighten victim or two. But instead, they found Jordan and Heather fighting for their lives! “Is this a show?” wonders Chiasa, but she can clearly smell their blood, mixed in with the demons blood. Heather turns wildly, her eyes full of fear, facing the confused Kain and Chiasa. “Don’t just stand there!” she shrieks, desperate, “Help us!”

Kain quickly slides into flight, plunging his sword into Jordan’s attacker. Chiasa followed suit, getting the upper-hand on the demon that had Heather’s blood on it’s breath. “What’s going on?”, Chiasa’s frighten mind screams, “Why are the demons attacking the Source’s henchmen!?” All four battled together, trying their best to stay alive, from the demon-horde attacks. Kain is distressed, as he realizes that there are at least a hundred demons surrounding them, more than they’ve ever encountered in one given time…

Part 27: Friends

“Oh!” squeals Heather, grabbing Chiasa’s arm, “I am so very bored of this place. You guys are awesome!” “Yeah.” frowns Chiasa, trying to not drop her gift. “Well,” shrugs Kain, “Let’s go. We can’t keep our friends waiting.” They leave the building for Kain’s car, yet Chiasa can’t shake the feeling that something awful is going to come out of this…

In a little apartment building, Kirk opens the door to their modest apartment wide open, all smiles. “Kain!” he cheers, “Chiasa! You guys are right on…” He notices the two others, in the hall, stopping in his sentence. “These are the two new ones.” nods Kain, to Kirk’s confusion, “Jordan and Heather. They wanted to tag along and meet you and Judy.” Chiasa gives an uneasy glance toward Kirk. “I hope that we’re not imposing.” offers Jordan, doing a good job of hiding a smirk.

“No,” waves Judy, peeping from behind a frozen Kirk, “I’ve made extra. So, of course, please join us.” “Thank you.” bow Jordan, walking into the apartment first, past Kirk. “Hi there, cutie.” Heather winks at Kirk. “H-hi…” he stammers, taken aback. “Wow,” smiles Judy, spotting the white box with multi-colored ribbons, in Chiasa’s hands, “Is that for me?” “Yep.” Chiasa blushes, “It’s for you and Kirk. A housewarming present.” “Well, cool.” says Kirk, taking a hold of the box and ripping it open, quickly. Judy frowns, as she watches the pretty ribbons fall to the floor.

“So,” Judy sighs, turning to the new arrivals, “You’re Jordan and Heather, huh?” “Yes,” grins Jordan, “It’s nice to meet you, Judy.” “You have a very quaint home!” smiles Heather, “It’s so very cute!” “Uh, thanks.” shrugs Judy, not sure if this was a compliment or an insult. “Awesome!” exclaims Kirk, lifting a ceramic toad from the box, “This little guy is neat. Thanks, Chiasa!” He gives her a huge hug and then runs to Kain, “Thanks, pal!” He holds on tight to Kain. “Ah, yeah, no problem!” frowns Kain, trying to shake free.

“I have the perfect place for it.” nods Judy, taking the toad from Kirk, and limping over to the window. On a small table, in front of the window, there is a collection of knickknacks and a few house plants. She places the toad next to the plants, “There. That looks nice.” “How are your injuries, Judy?” asks Chiasa, a little worried. “I’m healing well.” she nods, “Better than expected too.” “I’m glad.” smiles Chiasa, actually relieved a little. Kirk’s stomach growls loudly and everyone looks to him.

“Ha…” he blushes, a little embarrassed, “Judy wouldn’t let me eat a thing, until you guys got here.” “Well,” nods Kain, “Let us eat, then. We can continue conversations over a good meal.”

The yellow painted kitchen is very small and, with everyone seated, it felt very cozy. Judy had cooked lots of things, dishes from America and also some traditional Japanese meals, so this was turning into a feast for friends. “I never had American food before.” Chiasa said, through muffled chews, “It’s really good!” “I’m glad that you like it.” smiles Judy, “I wanted this lunch to be really fun for you all.” “It is! It is!” waves Chiasa, her mouth full. “Chiasa,” grins Kain, “Manners.” “Oh,” she blushed, swallowing quick, “Sorry. It’s just so good!” “Yes!” smiles Heather, with some crumbs on her face, “I never had… what’s it called again? Macaroni and Cheese? It’s very tasty!”

“Yeah…” says Kirk, a little uneasy, “Where did you two say you were from?” “We didn’t say.” nods Jordan. “Well,” says Kirk, highly suspicious, “I’m asking you, now.” “Fine,” Jordan shrugs, “We’re not from America or Japan.” “Is there a reason why you’re being so evasive?” frowns Kirk, folding his arms. “Oh,” waves Heather, “He’s just teasing you. We’re from Germany, originally.” Both Kain and Chiasa got an shiver, as that seemed like an well practiced lie. “I see.” nods Kirk, his face a blank.

“You are a very good cook,” says Jordan, changing the subject, “My dear, Miss Judy.” “Thank you.” she nods, “I always seem to cook extra. Maybe because I do enjoy cooking and lose myself in it.” “I can understand that.” agrees Kain, “I am the same way.” “Me too.” nods Jordan. “Hey,” frowns Heather, “Isn’t it weird that all of the Keepers can cook well, but us Fighters can’t.” “Yeah,” grins Chiasa, “I don’t want to say that  we Fighters are more simple minded, but it’s looking that way, isn’t it?” “Or,” laughs Kirk, “It means that the Keepers are more soft than we are!” “Hey!” frowns Kain, insulted. The girls giggle. “I’m just teasing!” laughs Kirk.

After lunch, Heather and Jordan decide to check out the shops nearby, to give the four some alone time. “Yeah,” giggles Heather, “We just wanted to meet Kirk and Judy. We don’t want to impose too much.” “Kain, Chiasa,” nods Jordan, “We’ll wait for you at the car, if we’re done shopping early. It was very nice meeting you two, Judy and Kirk.” “Thanks for your hospitality!” cheers Heather. “Sure,” smiles Judy, “No problem!”

A few minutes after the two new arrivals leave, Kirk lets out a deep sigh. “Those two are not trustworthy.” he frowns. “We’ve noticed that too.” agrees Kain. “They have a block that is most disturbing.” frowns Judy. “We’ve also noticed that.” nods Kain. “I think that both are bad news.” shakes Kirk, “This seems like another ploy of The Source.” Chiasa nods. “I believe,” says Judy, firmly, “That they are planning to separate us two from you two, Kain. I think this whole thing, of them tagging along, was for that purpose.” “Hmm.” says Kain, in deep thought.

“Well,” said Chiasa, very worried, “What should we do?” “I think we should play their little game,” Judy says, “For now. I think you two and us two should began to drift apart on purpose. Just gradually, so they’ll not catch on that we know too much. And then…” “We should let the chips fall where they may.” finishes Kain, “They will make a very huge move, exposing their true intentions and selves. That’s very clever of you, Judy.” “Am I not a Keeper?” she grins.

“Wait!” frowns Kirk, “What!? No more time with Chiasa and Kain!” “Just for a while.” sighs Judy, annoyed. “Ah, man!” sulks Kirk, folding his arms. “In this way,” explains Kain, “We don’t give them a chance to turn us against each other and manipulate us in that way. We will be in control the whole time, only giving them an appearance of a broken friendship. Then they will be confident enough to really show us their true ties.” “And with that,” nods Chiasa, “We will all be able to shut them down, together.”

“Makes sense.” sighs Kirk, “But I really get a bad feeling about them. I don’t like the idea of you two going solo against them, even for a  short while. Whatever the case, you both must be extremely careful.” “Yes,” agrees Kain, “They may be just mindless puppets. But I haven’t forgotten that their puppet-master is not dim and is extremely dangerous. This is a risky plan, but what other choice do we have here?” “And besides,” says Chiasa, hopeful, “In this way, there is a chance of  this not coming to bloodshed. Maybe this time, we could reach them and honestly get them on our side.”

Part 25: Neighbors

“Really?” Jordan asks, standing now, “So soon?” “Yes,” says the Source, with a huge grin, “I think it’s best if we keep things coming their way, as they’ll get tried faster. And besides, I’m sure you two won’t make the same mistakes, as Gaby and Rafe.” “Of course not.” said Jordan, half insulted, “We’re not as young and arrogant as those two, we know the girl is nothing to trifle with.” “Good.” nods Ezekiel, “Oh, and do not kill the Keeper… not yet…”

Chiasa is feeling numb, sitting on the living room’s floor of the apartment, as Kain waddles around. It’s been three days, since the battle with the traitors in that dark alley, but it feels like it happened just yesterday. She feels a little disturbed about it still, as Kain flexes his bandaged legs. “It’s a good thing we heal fast.” he grins, doing quick squats, “Already, Judy is walking about. She has recovered from her broken ribs and Kirk… well, I wouldn’t be surprised if he had healed over night, to be honest.”

“That’s good news.” says Chiasa, her mind a million miles away. In the midst of her worried thoughts, she is startled as Kain’s face appears suddenly close to hers. “Hey!” he smiles, placing a hand on her shoulder, “Stop doing that, please. You’re making me nervous.” “Doing what?” she asks, confused. “Flying off to that place,” he says with a nod, “Into worry and disturbia.” “I can’t help it.” Chiasa sighs, her hands collapsing into her lap, “Doesn’t it bother you, that we have killed two of our kind?”

“Yes.” Kain answers, his voice firm yet blank, “It disturbs me a lot. Also it bothers Kirk and Judy too. But you wouldn’t know it. That’s because we all realize that there wasn’t any other way, also that this is a war we’re fighting. No one said that war is pleasant and without it’s complications.” “Am I overreacting then?” she asks, afraid to look him in the eye. “Yes.” he answers, giving her a little nudge, “But that’s how you’ve always been. And I love you for it.” “So,” she says, feeling a little weird, “This isn’t just the ‘teenager’ in me, feeling this way?”

“Not at all.” waves Kain, sitting next to her, “This is classic Chiasa, all the way. As long as we’ve been together, you’ve been the worrier and the one to feel things the longest. While I’m busy making the best of a situation, you were always the one to whine and pout.” Chiasa gasped, insulted, and pinched him. “Oww!” he yelps, then frown, “And you’ve always been the more violent one too!” Chiasa giggles. “Hmm,” Kain grins, embracing her, “There’s my girl. Smile and relax a little. I know that things are a bit tough now, but it won’t always be.”

Chiasa allows herself to believe that for a moment, taking in the warmth of Kain’s arms around her, and cuddling against his chest. They are interrupted by the ring of Kain’s cell-phone. “Dammit.” he frowns, letting go of her and reaching for the phone, which sat on the coffee table nearby, “Every time we get some alone time, then the phone seems to… Hello, this is Kain.” Chiasa sighs and goes back to her far-off world of worry.

“Right.” frowns Kain, on the phone with Yamada, “I see. Okay, we’re on our way.” He hang up the phone. “What does Morioka want now?” asks Chiasa, not really interested in that. “Two new ones,” waves Kain, now pulling himself to his feet, “Of our kind. They’re here to help the cause. Yamada wants us to brief them on our current situation. Though, most likely they’ve already been informed. So, really, I think that Yamada and the others just want us there to help babysit.” “Lovely.” frowns Chiasa, not feeling like traveling today. “Well,” shrugs Kain, “Let’s go and get this over with.”

Within Headquarters, Dr. Jaden leads Kain and Chiasa to a small waiting room. Two others were sitting within this room, which Chiasa instantly felt a familiarity with the two strangers, a sign that they were of her kind. The couple looked to be in their mid-twenties, each. “This is Jordan and  Heather,” introduced Dr. Jaden, “And this is Kain and Chiasa.” A very tall man with long dark hair and beautiful blue eyes, stood and bowed to both Chiasa and Kain, “Nice to meet you.” Heather, a very pretty spiky blond haired woman, kept seated and was seemingly bored with the whole thing.

“Let me guess,” says Chiasa, trying to make conversation, “You’re the Keeper and she is the Fighter?” “How very astute.” grins Jordan, amused, “That is correct. How did you guess?” “I don’t know.” shrugs Chiasa, blushing a bit, “I can pretty much tell who’s the calmer one of a pair. And most likely, the calmer one is the Keeper.” Kain laughs, finding it true and to the point, “That’s my Chiasa.” “Well,” says Heather, a spark in her eye, “I do have my days…” “So, do I.” blushes Chiasa, putting one arm behind her back.

“Well, now…” nods Dr. Jaden, interrupting their chat, “Jordan and Heather are going to be your new neighbors, at the complex. Their apartment and things are already there, in the third apartment across the hall from Kain and Chiasa. Though, they will need a ride there… so…” She looks to Kain to fill in the blanks. “Of course.” he sighs, “You two can come with us.” “It must suck.” grins Heather, “That you were sent to babysit us.” Chiasa blushes and Kain turns pale. “Babysit?” asks Dr. Jaden, a bit stern, ”No, you four will be working together, against the demons, along with two others. It’s best that you should get acquainted and, since you happen to be neighbors now, it should be easier.”

“In other words,” says Jordan, with a shrug, “You want us to play nice with each other and be unified as a weapon against The Source.” A flash of knowing twinkled in Kain eye, agreeing with the notion, which Jordan so bluntly observed. “Not saying that I don’t get that.” he continued, shaking his head slightly, “But it would be nice if people just said things plainly, instead of-” “Having some tact?” Kain interrupted, with a grin, “I’ll admit that I like your honesty, Jordan.” Heather giggled and then grabbed onto Chiasa’s arm, as if they were old pals. “I wouldn’t worry.” she smiles, toward Dr. Jaden, “We’re going to get along  just fine. These are our kind of people!” “Yeah.” nods Jordan, “You two are alright. We wasn’t sure what to expect, when we got here, but I’m glad.”

On the drive home, they chatting like old friends, getting comfortable. By the time they reached the floor of their apartments, they were all laughing and bonding well. “Oh…” frowns Heather, looking toward the door of their new apartment, “I guess this is where we part ways.” “Well,” says Kain, “When you guys settle into the apartment, you’re welcome to join Chiasa and I for dinner at ours, any night. Just give me a call.” “Sounds like a good plan.” nods Jordan, “We’ll catch up with you two, a little later.” Each couple disappeared behind their doors.

“They were nice.” said Chiasa, within their apartment. “Yes,” agreed Kain, taking off his jacket, “Nice. A little too nice…” “I was thinking the same thing.” says Chiasa. They both stare at each other in wonder…

Part 26: Trust

“They were nice.” said Chiasa, within their apartment. “Yes,” agreed Kain, taking off his jacket, “Nice. A little too nice…” “I was thinking the same thing.” says Chiasa. They both stare at each other in wonder…

“Are we being too paranoid?” asks Chiasa, after a long pause. “Or are we being careful?” Kain answers back, “I’m not sure of either. What I know for sure is, there is an block, something hidden, that I can’t seem to read on them.” “I felt that too!” gasps Chiasa, moving closer to Kain, “Like there was something being hidden from me, somehow, about them.” “It’s especially unnerving for me,” nods Kain, walking them over to the living room, “I am a Keeper and I’m suppose to be more sensitive to these things, in order to protect you. Still, there is something that I can’t just connect with the new couple.”

Both collapsed onto the couch with an worried sigh. The ticking of a wall clock is all that could be heard, for several moments. “I guess…” says Chiasa, breaking the silence, after a while, “I guess, we’ll have to watch them carefully, wait and see.” “We have no choice, but to do that.” he nods. “Or we could be silly and foolish here.” frowns Chiasa, “Not trusting our own kind and putting wrong motives on two very nice people.” “Ordinarily,” says Kain, “I would agree with that. But… The Source has shown us how far it would go to win this… with the two in the alley, as they were also our kind, and very dangerously on The Source’s side. And it just seems odd, that so soon after that, these two show up.”

“This is why I was trying to read them,” she agrees, “Especially hard, to make sure this was not another set-up.” “So, did I.” sighs Kain, “And they seem clean enough… only that one thing, that one vibe, as if we’re missing something and it’s blocked.” “Strange.” frowns Chiasa. “Well,” shrugs Kain, getting to his feet, “Let’s not worry about this now. Let’s get some dinner and then we can get some sleep. We’re meeting Kirk and Judy, tomorrow, at their apartment.” “Okay.” says Chiasa, a faraway look to her eyes.

Within the realm of The Source, Jordan heads for Ezekiel’s throne. “I don’t believe that they quite trust us.” he bows to his Master, more frustrated than worried about allegiance. “Of course they don’t.” waves Ezekiel, “I have never taken them for fools. You and Heather will have to work and manipulate trust from them. It’s not going to be quite easy, but with their soft hearts for humans, it’s not nearly impossible. Although… with the other two, their comrades, you will never gain their trust. They’ve lived a much harsher existence and the block of where yourself and Heather are originated, they will never let that past.” “So,” nods Jordan, a slight grin, “We’re going to have to separate Chiasa and Kain from the other two, isolate them. Gee, you’re not exactly making this mission easy.” “Easy?” frowns Ezekiel, a flash of anger in his eyes, “Do you want easy or do you want the world to be free of the humans?”

“Can’t I have both?” shrugs Jordan. A sudden force slams Jordan into a stone wall, as The Source is losing patience with Jordan’s flippant words. “Oh, my.” frowns Heather, walking into the space suddenly, “Maybe I’ve come in, at the wrong time?” “Do you have anything useful to add?” asks Ezekiel, hoping to hear something good. “Oh,” she bows slightly toward him, “I do. Chiasa does like bonding and friendship, it comes off her in waves. And the thing of it is, I actually and honestly do like her. So, I think I can use it to my full advantage. This problem with trust, I’m sure it will be overcome, once I get closer and closer with her.”

“Interesting.” nods Ezekiel, very pleased with this news, “Tell me more.” “It’s also clear that she is only half-awake.” nods Heather, “So, she still has a very powerful emotion to bond, only she realizes that the human world is not her own. So, she is torn and a lot lonely, in this way. Her Keeper is hot and adores her, but it still leaves her to feel very isolated and vulnerable. So, there is much I can manipulate in this way.” “Hot?” frowns Jordan, pulling himself to his feet, with a bloody nose. “I’m just being honest.” winks Heather, playfully.

“This is very good news.” smiles Ezekiel, “Good work, Heather.” “Thank you, Master.” she bow, with an giggle. “As for Chiasa and Kain,” the Source informs, “They do plan to meet with the others, tomorrow. Be sure to tag along and began the manipulation of isolating them further. Also, do not report back here, for a very long while. It’s not safe to keep traveling from this Earth’s core to the Outer. You’ll bring too much of this place’s signature with you and Chiasa will sense it.”

“Yes, sir.” they both said and then disappeared from the realm…

The next morning, Chiasa gets dressed and ready for their visit with Kirk and Judy. “Doesn’t it seem odd?” wonders Chiasa, while putting on her shoes. “What does?” asks Kain, ever nosy in her loud wondering. “Oh,” she waves, “I was just thinking… We live here, in this building, protected by Morioka. And so do the new couple. It makes sense, as we are working for the secret government program, after all. But Kirk and Judy chooses to live across town, in a ordinary apartment complex. I wonder why.” “Hmm,” says Kain, “I know why… I think. I had asked Kirk about that once. He said something about not wanting to ‘be so close to the tool-box’… whatever that means. I figured that him and Judy don’t trust Morioka too well.”

“Okay…” says Chiasa, with wide eyes, “That just makes me wonder more questions!” Kain laughs and runs a hand through her hair, “Well maybe you should ask them, when we visit.” “Yeah.” nods Chiasa, trying not to blush. She hated that she felt like a school-girl with a crush, around Kain. Still much of  the memories of their love together was buried in her mind. So, it often felt like she was dating Kain for the first time. “Well,” he announced, heading for the door, “Let’s go! We don’t want to be late.” Chiasa grabs the gift, that she and him bought for their friends a day ago, and follows Kain.

In the hallway, both are hit with the approaching wave of two familiar people heading their way. “Hey!” smiles Heather, waving, “We were just on our way over, to ask you out for lunch.” Jordan nods. “Oh,” frowns Kain, “I’m sorry. We’re on our way to meet some friends.” “Is it the two others?” asks Jordan, getting to the point. “Yes.” nods Chiasa, “So, I guess we’ll have to see you two later.” “Or…” sing-songs Heather, “We could tag along!” Chiasa and Kain gives each other a worried look.

“I’m sorry,” frowns Jordan, “Heather was never one for taking a hint. I’m sure you two want to hang out with your friends alone. It’s true that we haven’t met them yet, but there is always later. Have a great time, you two, and we’ll catch up with you some other time.” “No,” says Kain, giving a shrug, “If you two would like to come along, that’s fine. I’m sure Kirk and Judy won’t mind.” “Yay!” cheers Heather with a giggle. Chiasa gives Kain a quick look, but he gives her one, as if to say to trust him on this. “We don’t want to be a bother.” waves Jordan. “No,” nods Chiasa, “I’m sure Heather hates being cooped up in this building. So, it’s really no problem. Kirk and Judy are cool.”

“Oh!” squeals Heather, grabbing Chiasa’s arm, “I am so very bored of this place. You guys are awesome!” “Yeah.” frowns Chiasa, trying to not drop her gift. “Well,” shrugs Kain, “Let’s go. We can’t keep our friends waiting.” They leave the building for Kain’s car, yet Chiasa can’t shake the feeling that something awful is going to come out of this…