What Lies Around Us

[CharChar45]

The place was jam packed with people. Sky could tell just from all the noise coming from inside. Squealing girls, the thrum of music, rhythmic beats of drums. Her senses were overloaded just from being outside the damn place. Why did this guy have to be some big shot singer anyways? It made Sky's life much more difficult. She had no intentions to go into that crowded place, but had to talk to him. So the best thing she could do was wait outside. Unfortunately, it was the middle of winter, and it was cold as f*ck outside. Even with a good four layers of clothing on, Sky was freezing. Her breath fogged out in front of her as she shivered, resting her head against the wall, tugging her hat down to cover her ears. She could feel Aiden's presence floating around her, his curiosity peaking at all the commotion inside.


Sky sighed, wrapping her arms around herself to bring some more warmth into her body. "Go ahead, Aiden," she mumbled, sitting on the ground coated in a thin layer of ice, "Just don't go too far." Not that he could anyways. If he went too far, it put both of them in pain. There was almost a cord connecting them, and when that cord was pulled too hard, it hurt like a b*tch. Closing her eyes, Sky began to "see" through Aiden's perspective. The crowds of people pushing past one another to get a better view, a musical voice humming beautifully through the room. The people were pressed so close together, and there was so much noise... Gasping, Sky jerked back into her own perspective, her hands beginning to tremble. Even when she saw from Aiden's "eyes", her claustrophobia was terrible. It would be best to avoid trying to traverse through that crowd. So Sky sat outside, shivering in the cold, waiting for the damn big shot to get his arse out here.

 

[Darktanion]

The thick screaming of fans was drowned out by the soft sound of his voice. The loud speakers sending his voice echoing loudly into the crowd. Sweat dripped down his brow as he held the mic close to his lips, his foggy gray eyes glistened against the spot light as he sang, his eyes moving to look at someone. Someone only he could see. As he sang his final song, it was as though he sang it to her. This young girl who looked to be younger then him. Her pale skin like that of a ghost.. like that of someone who should never have stood there anyway. ( [media]



[/media] )
The roar of the fans thickened as the song ended, the soft strumming of instruments echoing softly as they faded to nothing. He didn't stay on stage, nor did he acknowledge his fans for coming. It was a typical concert. A concert that he had a image to uphold. The image of this strong, bad boy personality. One who should never be messed with. Dark and mysterious. That's how they saw him.


He didn't wait at all to leave. Throwing on a thick black coat and a scarf over his concert clothing. It was better to leave before the fan's came out. Or before his drunk uncle showed his ugly face. Even as he left, his body still dripped with sweat from the long concert, which only made the touch of the cold night that much more noticeable.


"Hey, Micheal! You know you leave quite a mess for us leaving all these fans.. " A man called to Micheal as he exited threw a side door, causing him to scuffle at him. The man sighed at his reaction, shutting the door with a thud. Micheal flinched at the sound of the door shutting, his eyes flickering up to look at the faded presence that stood before him. The spirit looked at him with sad eyes, her thick blues eyes matching with his. Micheal gave her a grim smile, walking suddenly past her.


It was odd, a person who held himself as rude, cold, dark and mysterious, would suddenly walk around this frail looking spirit, rather then threw her. It wasn't who he claimed to be at all. Anna, that is what he called her. Although he knew that wasn't right. But she had never told him her name. In fact, she had never spoken at all. In all the years she had been with him, clinging to him, she had never uttered a single word. He had assumed she couldn't speak. A mute. Or perhaps she never wanted to talk to him. Either way he never pushed her.


In fact he enjoyed her presence. The soft glow of light and happiness she gave off, it was nice. He walked slowly out onto the side walk, stopping to glance around the rather dead street. He could still hear the fans roaring inside, demanding a encore. Something they wouldn't get. He sighed, tucking his hands into his pockets as he waited by the curb, his eyes searching for a taxi.


Though he pretended to ignore the girl, he knew she was there. But it was best not to look at her. After all if she was a fan, it would only be trouble. It always was. Though the guilt of not seeing if she was okay clawed at him. She seemed cold, that much he could tell, and although he wasn't sure if it was him, he thought he could see a faint glow that wrapped around her. Anna looked to Micheal curiously, her head turning to look at the girl who sat on the thin layer of ice. She smiled, slowly moving towards her.


Her smile was much like a child, innocent and sweet. She raised her hand and waved in front of the girl, tilting her head curiously. Anna could feel it. The feeling of concern coming from Micheal. A feeling he did well at hiding.

 

[CharChar45]

"Alright, Aiden," Sky whispered to herself, hastily scrambling to her feet, "Stay alert, and warn me if you see anyone coming, ok?" With that, Sky quickly made her way towards the guy, who she was assuming was Michael, checking her surroundings to make sure anyone who should not hear this conversation was not here. "Hey, you're Michael something or another, right?" Her blunt approach was probably not the brightest of her ideas, but it was all she had at the moment. "Don't worry, I'm not some crazed fan here for an autograph, or whatever. I just need to talk with ya." How was she supposed to explain this to him? Good god she sucked at this. Was she just supposed to... Aiden cried a warning. Sky's head jerked up, her eyes scanning the scene. There was no one there, only her and Michael. The only sounds were farther away, and she couldn't quite place them. "Nows not the time to be screwing around, Aiden," she thought harshly, a slight scowl crossing her lips.


"Look, my name is Sky," she said hastily, hoping not to freak out the big shot. "And I know, and you aren't the only one." Okay, she sounded slightly crazy at this point, but all of the CIA thought she was psycho anyways, so she could give less of a damn. "God I suck at this sh*t..." She muttered, huffing impatiently. Well, if he thought she was crazy, then so be it. At least she tried to talk to him.

 

[Darktanion]

He couldn't help but be taken back by her sudden approach, tilting his head slightly as she mumbled quietly, trying hard to say something she just couldn't seem to phrase. He had to hold back from giggling at her, instead giving her a warm smile as she let a slightly flustered look surface. "Miss, I think the cold might be getting to you.. " The sudden weight of his coat weighted down heavily on her shoulders as he sudden dropped it down on her. He again gave her a warm smile, his eyes flickering back the street as a taxi turned the corner. "You should get inside, you'll catch a cold.. " He wasn't suppose to let his act down, but in all honesty, this women made him laugh a bit. She seemed nice, and it was hard to constantly put up this front.


"I have to go-" His voice suddenly cut off as the sound of screaming fans echoed in his ears. It only took a second for them to suddenly surround the both of them, shoving and pushing each other. They all talked at once, screaming like fan girls as they waved fan memorabilia in the air. Micheal clenched his teeth, wishing the cab had showed up but a minute sooner. His eyes flickered down to the women Sky. Light gray hues widening as he looked at her. His voice must have been drowned out by the screaming girls as he spoke. "Are you okay?" The fan's pushed him forwards slightly, ranting about wanting his autograph and about how they loved him. It was to much. It always was. His eyes narrowed as he put up his mask once more, his lips tsking as he pushed one girl back gently. "Enough.. " He spoke with a now annoyed tone, putting his hands back into his jean pockets. His arms had turned red from the cold, leaving only his thin black shirt and red scarf to keep him warm.

 

[CharChar45]

This is what Aiden had tried to warn her about, the oncoming crowd. But now it was too late to do anything. The fan girls surrounded them, pressing closer and closer, the scent of heavy perfumes causing Sky to gag. Her whole body began to shake, her face going white as a ghosts, green eyes squeezed shut as if she could escape by just picturing her home, as shabby as it was. At least there, she wouldn't be suffocating, at least there she would be able to breathe, to stop shaking. "Aiden..." She whispered as she began to fall, her senses becoming fuzzy and unclear from all the obnoxious noise if squealing girls. As she blacked out, a protective shield surrounded her, guarding her from the onslaught of screaming fans.

 

[Darktanion]

"Hey... " Micheal's voice was drowned out by the screaming fans as he looked towards Sky, her chalk pale face almost as white as Anna's. He outstretched his hand, suddenly grabbing her arm and pulling her closer to him. Her body trembled, shaking like a scared dog who feared to be beaten. "Sky!..." He muttered, letting his arms suddenly support all her weight as she slowly collapsed into his grasp. "Stop.. " He said, again his voice drowned out by the on slaughter of fans. They wouldn't stop, they kept screaming, ignoring the obvious feelings of something being wrong. And despite this slightly obvious circle they had made around them, they still seemed to try and push closer, only to be stopped, but by what?


Fear consumed him as she suddenly lay unconscious, her body unresponsive. There screams were like nails against a chalk board, he couldn't drowned it out, he couldn't stop it. "STOP!" He screamed, his eyes clenching shut. It felt like a burst of energy, a flow of his anger and anxiety suddenly being thrown outword. It took him a moment to realize the crowd of 8 girls or so had been suddenly thrown back, their bodies skidding across the thin sheet of ice. They all looked towards him confused, eyes wide with fear. He hated that look, the look of a deer in the headlights. The look of fear, of unknowing.


He didn't waste anytime, suddenly scooping Sky into his arms. "Sorry.. " He muttered, as he leaned down slightly to use one of his hands to open the door. He quickly slid into the cab, placing Sky next to him, allowing her limp neck to lean on his shoulder. "1478 Terrace Ave .. Please.." He spoke quietly, looking over to Sky with worry. Would she be okay? The cab driver at first just looked at him in shock, but soon decided to take his direction. The girls, at least as far as he knew stood still in shock, being suddenly passed by the next on-slaughter of fans, who chased after the cab.


The ride was probably about 40 minutes long, most of it on a highway. The cab driver stayed silents most of the time, glancing back every minute to look to Micheal and Sky.


He couldn't see Anna. Perhaps she had become scared of what he just did and fled. And could he really blame her? When the cab stopped, Micheal stepped out in front of a rather large mansion. Its beautiful grasses luscious green and filled with rose bushes. It was a home one might picture as there dream home. But considering his stardom, it was no surprise he had it. When they finally came inside, he gently laid Sky onto one of the beds, his thin fingers gently caressing her cheek to make sure she didn't have a fever. He sighed in relief, glancing up at the spirit who stood next to her. "Who are you...?" He asked quietly, only to have silence reply.


He sighed again at the silence, suddenly turning and walking out of the room. He decided to take a hot shower in the next room, which felt relieving against his cold skin. Dressed again he wandered outside the door of Sky's room, carrying a black towel as he rubbed it against his ashy hair, drying it slowly. His eyes flickered up as he look to T.V. Which had been mounted high on the wall. "Star Singer, Micheal Roslen attacked his fan's today in a fit of rage as they gathered around to get nothing more then his autograph. Parent's are outraged at the sudden outburst of violence coming from today's newest rock singer.." A video clip played in the corner of the news story, showing the sudden force of the girls bodies being thrown back. Someone had recorded it?


He grimaced at the news story, suddenly looking away from the screen. He didn't mean to throw those girls back. And he wondered if they were all okay.. What had he done? His train of thoughts suddenly faltered with the thick and brutal forced to his cheek bone. His body hit the ground with a thud, his thin fingers coming up to hold his right cheek, which had suddenly turned red from the force. A small cut laced his cheek bone, letting a small amount of crimson red drip from his cheek. "Uncle?" Micheal muttered, looking up at his drunken uncle, his hands held tightly into a fist, with a big gold ring on his finger. His eyes were blood shot, no doubt from the heroine he had probably shot up early. And the ring..


It was no doubt that ring which had cut his cheek. "You little piece of shit, how dare you pull a stunt like this... You realize how much money you have cost me?!? The only useful thing you do is bring in my god damn money and i'll be damned if I let you take it away." Micheal slowly pushed himself to his feet, his cold ashy eyes looking up to his uncle. Such a greedy man. Thats all he cared about, money. Well and the drugs. But he couldn't have one without the other. "Your gonna fix this you little shit. Cause if I can't get my shit then your a useless little fu*k, got it?"


His voice screamed throughout the home, echoing loudly throughout each room.


"In six more months.. it wont be yours anymore... " Micheal bit his own tongue after he responded, instantly regretting his reply. But it was true. Once he turned 18, his guardian would no longer have control over his money. Over him. He could leave. Micheal took a step back, his eyes glancing up at the now beat red face his uncle had managed to make. Both his fists too had turned beat red as he clenched them in the most estranged manor. "You little-" his voice shook with anger as he spoke, his entire body shaking.

 

[CharChar45]

When she woke, all Sky heard was cursing and angry shouting. Aiden's presence hovered around her protectively, as her eyes fluttered open slowly. She was in a large house, on a couch, with the shouts coming from behind her. Staying silent, she peered over the edge of the couch to get a look, a scowl crossing her face when she saw the man beating down on Michael. His eyes were red, and he was obviously fixed on some drug. And, from the conversation, Sky could tell he was a greedy son of a b*tch. One who was about to get his ass kicked. Before he could throw another punch towards Michael, Sky slipped off the jacket Michael had lent her and the one she had herself, then jumped between the two, placing a hand on her hip, and arching a delicate brow.


Her fiery red hair fell pass her shoulders, just barely touching her waist, framing a heart shaped face with green eyes and lightly freckled cheeks. She looked ten years younger then her twenty-six years, and definitely didn't seem like the type who would get in, let alone win a fight. But if someone looked more closely, if someone observed the way she held herself, the look in her eyes, they would see that she was a fighter, and a god damn good one at that. She skewered this man with a cool look, probably looking like some foolish teenager with her petite frame and child-like face. Yet she had more experience under her belt then this man thought, and that, she had to say, was her favorite part. Catching people by surprise when she revealed her true skills and talents.


"May I ask what the f*ck is going on here?" she asked coolly, tilting her head to the side, watching the man carefully. "I see no reason to go hitting people just because you're a greedy son of a b*tch just looking for money. I've got news for you, money ain't everything." Hell, for the past year, Sky had survived on the streets with no money, stealing when necessary, digging through trash cans for blankets and scraps of food. She snuck into public showers to stay clean, and actually used a strawberry scented shampoo last night when she snuck into the one in the gym. Being on the run from the government made life a tad more difficult. But it was necessary. She refused to become one of their experiments.

 

[Darktanion]

Micheal's uncle suddenly stopped, a look of confusion and surprise covering his face. Micheal too looked to her in surprise, his eyes wide. "Sky..? Your okay?" His voice was suddenly quiet, a sigh of relief coming from him as he held a hand up to the side of his head, as though to hold it up from the thoughts of her being injured because of him.


"What the F*ck.. Who the f*ck is this little piece of shit?" His uncles voice rang in his head as Micheal's head suddenly straightened. "Your bringing home little whores now too? " He stumbled slightly as he lunged forward to grab Sky. His approach was violent, and forceful, not caring how he grabbed her, although, it was slightly obvious he was aiming for her long thick Red locks.


"No!" Micheal suddenly stepped between the two, his hand grabbing his uncles wrist to stop his approach. Being this close to his uncle made him cringe slightly at the thick smell of alcohol. He was drunk too? For a brief moment, he was caught up on the smell. It was thick, and the smell alone was enough to cough on, although, with someone as drunk and high as he was, he didn't expect such a strong punch. Micheal's body suddenly curled over his uncles fist, the sudden impact causing all the air to leave Micheal's body. "Shut up you little f*ck.. " His uncle muttered as Micheal slid down onto the crowd, his body dry heaving from the lack of oxygen in his stomach.


Pain spiked threw Micheal's chest, although, it was more so covered up by his constant cough as he hunched down on the floor. "Now for you.. " Micheal's uncle redirected his aim back towards Sky, again outstretching his hand to grab onto her beautiful red locks. Micheal had to stop him, but as he tried to move, his chest only pained more, forcing him back into place. "Uncle.. *cough* stop.. shes's not " He muttered, his voice drowned by his loud coughs.

 

[CharChar45]

She had to give this boy some credit. He was brave, and willing to stand up for someone. That was honorable, but unnecessary. This uncle of his was about to get what he deserved. As he reached out for her hair for the second time, Sky jumped into motion, ducking smoothly under his hand and deftly spinning behind him. "C'mon ya fat, greasy pig, show me what ya got," Sky taunted, a wicked grin crossing her lips. Adrenalin pumped through her veins, and her senses were high on alert. She could see and hear the fly buzzing by the window, smell the sweat dripping down the mans neck, hear the scampering of rats in the attic above. Every movement she managed to watch, every movement she managed to process in a second and move to avoid.


Even angrier then before, the uncle spun around, swinging his fist drunkenly towards her face. Sky spun to the left and grabbed his wrist, twisting it sharply in the opposite direction. He let out a howl of pain as she raised her knee in three, rapid shots, knocking the air out of his gut. Still, he continued clawing for her, causing Sky to roll her eyes. "You just don't know how to give up, do you, old man?" He snarled and she chuckled, easily grabbing him by the nape of his neck and flinging him forward. He crashed into the wall, his fat ass slamming down into the ground. Groaning, he struggled to rise to his feet, just to be kicked down once more by Sky. "That's five years of military training right there. Do you really want to continue?"


Gulping, the uncle shook his head, scrambling away from as fast as his body would allow. "That's what I thought," Sky said with a satisfied sigh, standing up straight and raising her hand to give the uncle a taunting wave. "Ta ta!" He gave her a meek glare before finally managing to drag himself out of the room. Once he was gone, Sky scoffed, shaking her head. "What a pansy." She then turned to Michael, concern on her face. "Shit, you're bleeding pretty bad." Carefully, she stepped towards him, kneeling by his side. "Here, let me help you," she said, giving him a gentle smile, "Aiden?" His presence hummed soothingly, a soft coo in her ears. He didn't show himself to her, not often, but she always knew he was there. She turned her attention back to Michael, offering her hands to him. "May I?"

 

[Darktanion]

Micheal looked up at her in awe, his eyes wide as she kneeled down next to him. She was incredible, to be able to move like that. Someone who was so small and fragile, able to put such a big man down in an instant. "You.. That was amazing... But.. I don't understand... Who are you?" His hand still gripped his stomach as he fingers touched his cheek, causing him to wince as the wound quickly healed. It was so different, so strange. Yet to him, this was all so familiar. your.. "Like me.." although at first he thought it, the words suddenly seemed to come out of his mouth as his hand slowly came up to his now healed cheek.


He had no idea there were others like him, and now, what she was trying to say earlier made that much more sense. But, she seemed in more control, more knowledgeable about it. Honestly, he had no idea it came from Anna, not that she could have told him. She never spoke. Micheal grunted, as he slowly pushed himself up from the ground, looking at Sky curiously. "Are you okay?... " He asked, looking down at her with concern. He couldn't help but be concerned. His uncle was strong, strong enough to hurt her, although, she seemed mighty good at dodging. He was glad for that. But in the back of his mind, worried for when his uncle would return. After all, he always did.

 

[CharChar45]

"I spent five years in the CIA," Sky said, standing up and stretching her arms up in the air, "I'm Sky, as I said earlier." She dropped her arms to her side, swaying them back and forth for a moment before letting them lay naturally once more. "And trust me, I'm fine. Your uncle is a little pansious b*tch." She paused, tilting her head and giving Michael a short, wicked grin. "Pansious... don't know where that came from, but I like it." She brushed a strand if hair out of her face as she chuckled slightly, her green hues flickering around the room. Her smile faded, and she let out a gentle sigh. "Look, kid. There's a reason I'm not in the CIA anymore. I don't know if you've been watching the news at all, but I'm a wanted criminal over here," she watched him for a brief moment for a reaction, but then decided she didn't want to know and continued on.


"They're trying to open a rift, a portal to the other side. So the dead and the living could live together," she closed her eyes, the nightmares she had been having recently flashing through her mind, "But they don't know about the dangers in the rift, the spirits who will kill just for the sake of killing. The dead and the living need to remain separate, but they refuse to listen to me. So I left." She turned to face Michael, her green hues haunted, as if she had seen things that no human should of seen. "I left, and have been searching for others, others like us. They won't listen to me alone. But maybe they'll listen to a group of us. Whatever happens, they cannot open that rift. If they do, there will be no one to save."

 

[Darktanion]

He listened to her silently, and in all honesty, was stunned. Rifts? Spirits? Other side? Her story was so bizarre, so strange, yet somehow he believed it. He was so shocked at her story that he almost completely skipped over the fact that she was wanted. That was, until it all settled in. "Wanted? ... " He muttered, looking up at her curiously. Micheal didn't watch the news much, so the fact that he didn't know wasn't really a surprise. "Then, what are you trying to say? That I am like you? That you want me to join you? To travel the world and find these... 'others'?" He paused for a moment, pulling his gaze away from her.


"You know... Despite your crazy story and your wanted status... I would want nothing more then to join you. To leave and travel this world. To get out of this place. And if you had come to me, 6 months from now, I would have said yes. But I can't. My uncle would hunt us down to the ends of this world. He would label you a kidnapper, and despite the fact you are already labeled much worse, I can't be the reason to tarnish your name any further... I can't just abandon everything... Not yet... " His eyes slowly moved back to match with hers, his thick ashy hues glistening against the rooms light. "I'm sorry.." He muttered, letting his body brush against her shoulder as he passed by her.


It was true, he hated what he said. He wanted to run away, to join her. To help others. But not at the cost it came with. Not now... If only she had come just a little lat- His train of thought suddenly seemed funny as the thick smell of chloroform touched his nostrils. The cloth was thick and soft, leaving him in a pit of darkness as his body sudden hit to the floor with a thud. The sound of Micheal's body collapsing was drowned out again by the smell of chloroform, the strong stench thick suffocating as a hand suddenly cupped the cloth around Sky's mouth and nostrils. Shinning crystal blue eyes glimmered against the light, looking down at Sky as she collapsed into his grasp.


"Well, this will be an easy 50k.. " He muttered, swooping Sky into his hands. "Addison, torch the place... " His voice was deep as he spoke, his grasp gentle around Sky as he exited the room towards the stair. He could feel it, the soft presence of Addison around him, the feeling of fury that raged threw them both. This client of his was nasty, but he paid good. That was all that mattered. Hiring someone to kill his own nephew? Low, but what did he care. The only shame was burning down such a beautiful home with him still in it. Small sparks lit the drapes as the outlets, each one at a time began to catch fire.

 

[CharChar45]

At Michael's words, Sky gave him a sad smile. He couldn't leave because of that fat pig of an uncle, the uncle who kept him trapped here. Greedy son of a b*tch. "I understand," she said softly, watching as he stood up. "Just, be careful, okay? And I'll see you in six months." As he brushed passed her, she sighed softly, her gaze flickering up to the ceiling for a long moment. "Alright, Aiden. Let's keep moving." She began to turn, until the smell of chloroform and cloth filled her nose, her body thrashing automatically as her vision blurred, fighting against the drugs. Even so, soon her body went limp and she blacked out.


Aiden hovered invisibly above her unconscious body, observing everything happening. He knew Sky was in danger, and his anger seethed seeing the mysterious stranger picking her up. He had to get her out of here. He kept close to the two, waiting for the right moment. It was when the man carrying Sky was under a ceiling lamp that Aiden took action. The light exploded, sending shards of glass everywhere, cutting into the mans skin. Aiden had no intentions of letting him take her anywhere. He planned to cause this stranger some serious trouble. Another lightbulb exploded, spraying shards into his face. The remaining lights shut off. More shattered glass.


"Happy twenty years in the CIA, Mark." Dave delivered a heavy pat on his shoulder, sliding onto the bar stool beside him. Mark watched him out of the corner of his eye, holding a bottle of Shiner in his hand, twirling the bottle mindlessly in circles. "I'm getting too old," Mark said with a chuckle, bringing the bottle to his lips and taking a gulp, "Been in this damned thing way too long, if ya ask me." He took another good drink, scrunching his brows together at the bitter, but crisp, taste, his dark eyes flickering to the TV screen above them. Deborah Barley was on, the normal emergency new caster for their town, and it was the same report as always.


"The government is still searching for twenty-six year old Serafina Kelley Yale, wanted for treason against the CIA. New information has just come in that whoever gives her up to the government will receive an award of $500,000..." Mark slammed his beer bottle on the table, abruptly standing and turning away from the television. He was really starting to hate the news. "Hey Mark, you okay?" Dave asked, peering over to him in concern. For a long moment, Mark said nothing. "Just tired, Dave. I'll see you in the office tomorrow." With those final words, he left the bar, his face unreadable and cold as stone. "C'mon, kid," he muttered under his breath, "Just keep on moving, Sky, keep on moving."

 

[Darktanion]

He walked silently, his eyes flickering down to this girl. It was odd that this man wanted her alive. It only made his job more of a pain. It would be easier to just leave her in the burning house. He had managed to make it down the stairs, and only a few feet from the rather large front door before a lamp suddenly crashed down into his right shoulder. Then, thick shards of glass suddenly slashing at his flesh. He let out a lightly muffled yelp before he called for a name. "Addison!" A sudden force seemed to push Aiden away from the lamps, two hands wrapping around his presence and preventing him from moving any further.


Cylis could hear Addison's voice, warning him of another spirit, one that had been doing this. "Another one? ... " Blood dripped down his cheek as he looked again down to Sky. "Impossible.. " He mumbled, suddenly pushing towards the door. "Deal with it! " He barked, using his right foot to thrust the door open. Smoke filled the home, the thick stench of smoke sucking all the oxygen out. When he finally woke, it was to aggravated coughs, gasping from air, only to choke on the smoke. *cough* "S-Sky.. " His voice was muffled as he looked around at the thickly smoked room. What had happened? The last thing he remembered... Was walking away from Sky..


He stumbled to his feet, his hands grabbing the sleeves of his long shirt as he attempted to cover his mouth. But it didn't help. The room was hot, thick flames dancing on every wall. Even the ceiling was consumed in dangerous flames, eating quickly threw the roof. Micheal staggered threw the hallway, flinching suddenly as flames bit at his arms and feet. "Sky?!" He tried his best to project his voice, only to be suffocated again. Had she left? Was she gone? He could only hope that was the case. That she wasn't trapped. He made his way weakly down the stairs, stumbling slightly as he stepped in small batches of flames that had consumed the stair case.


*Cough cough* "Anna?" His vision was hazy threw the smoke as he reached the bottom of the stair case, his eyes squinting as he look at someone who looked just like her. "An-" His voice suddenly cut off only to be finished with a sudden yelp of pain, his body suddenly crushed by a broken beam which had suddenly fallen from the ceiling. The sudden impact rattled his brain, causing his vision to sway. Before him, stood Anna, a look of concern and fear on her face as she ran towards him. "Anna.. I.. I thought you.. left......-" His voice seemed to fade to nothing as his head suddenly went limp on the floor, hitting with a soft thud.


Anna screamed, trying desperately to move the beam from Micheal upper back. But it was no use, the more she tried to move it, the more his face scrunched in pain. The only thing she could do was try to keep the smoke away from him, allow him to breathe, which didn't work well considering there wasn't much oxygen left in the building. Anna cried, her scream loud. Someone had to help her, to help him. What could she do? She didn't mean to leave Micheal, she just wanted a moment, a moment to think... A moment for Micheal to be alone.


Addison shoved Aiden out of the door, letting out a hateful scream towards him, his body still holding Aidens back. He would not allow him to hurt Cylis. Not ever. Cylis quickly ran forward, skidding to a stop in front of a jet black car. He had to hurry before the fire department showed up. He quickly placed Sky into the back seat, suddenly slamming the door shut. He glanced back at Addison, hesitating before jumping into the drivers seat and taking off down the gravel drive. "Just hold it back, then catch up. Don't get too far behind Addison... " His voice echoed hard in his head as he suddenly skidded onto the street.

 

[CharChar45]

Aiden snarled back at the spirit, then used all his force to shove it back, slamming it against the opposite wall. Sky was getting too far away, he would have to rejoin her soon, but this spirit, this Addison, was a nuisance that he quickly had to get rid of. Once again, he used all of his force to shove Addison back, then, just as quickly, left, chasing after the speeding black vehicle to get back to Sky. He couldn't go too far without putting the two of them into immense pain. He had to stop the car somehow without injuring Sky in the process. He focused his attention on the back tire. A second later, it popped, sending the car skidding across the street and slamming into a wall. Any second now it would explode, and Aiden had to get Sky out of there.


He popped open the door, feeling relief as she began to cough, her eyes fluttering open, burning from the smoke. After a quick glimpse around, she couldn't help but grin slightly, chuckling and shaking her head. "Good job, Aiden," she said through coughs, hastily scrambling out of the car. She had no idea where her captor was, and, frankly, did not care. All that mattered was getting out of here and making sure Michael was safe. But, considering the smoke hovering in the air in the distance, and a sickening feeling in her gut, she was assuming otherwise. "Sh*t," she cursed, beginning to break into a run, "Alright, Aiden, let's get him the hell out of there."


Mark smelled the smoke before he saw it. As he stepped out into the cold night air, the scent wafted up his nose causing him to gag in disgust. He hated smoke, and had to deal with it on a day to day basis. Even on his one day off, it was no different. Scrunching his brows together, Mark scanned the dark sky with his brown hues, landing on the flickering burnt orange light coming from only a few miles away. The wind was blowing towards him too, meaning, if it wasn't stopped soon, it would spread to other parts of town and destroy the place. "Ah, f*ck," he muttered, breaking into a run towards his car, "Why can't all the sh*t happen on days I actually work?" He gunned the engine and threw the gear into reverse, tearing out of the parking lot and towards the fire.


As he got closer, his dread only grew. He knew the street he was on, recognized the path he was going. He went this way all the time, just to make sure that kid was safe with his greedy, psychotic step-brother. That man would do anything for drugs and cash, yet he was the safest person for Michael to be with. The CIA would just use him as guinea pig to help open their damn rift, and he couldn't exactly stay with Mark with him in the CIA keeping Sky and his nephew safe. "Shit," he said as he pulled up to the house, jumping out of the car, "Shit, shit, shit! That god damn bastard!" The whole mansion was up in flames, and Mark was pretty damn sure Michael was trapped inside. The greedy pig would get a shitload of cash for this, which is exactly why he did it.


And Mark had to stop it.


Mark tore off his jacket and threw it to the ground, running towards the house. "Damn, you crazy bastard," he muttered to himself, "You're getting way too old for this." Yet he ran into the burning mansion anyways, shielding his eyes from the drifting smoke. Orange and yellow flames flickered up the walls, sending beams and pictures crashing down. The place was f*cking huge, that was for sure. How in the hell was Mark supposed to find the damn kid in here anyways? Walking around in aimless circles would just get him killed, something he really didn't need right now. Cursing under his breath, he continued trudging forward, cussing like a sailor every time a beam fell and blocked his path. The smoke was beginning to fill his lung as well, suffocating him, leaving him in a fit of coughs. Where was this damn kid?

 

[Darktanion]

Ann could hear it, the loud coughs coming from the other room, the sound of hateful cursing as it moved threw the hall. Someone was in the house? Who? But who didn't really matter, all that mattered was they would help. Help her, help Micheal... The smoke was thick, and the flames dangerously hot. The thick flames bite at Marks skin, his clothes quickly heating and staining from the thick smoke. The hallway seemed impossible, impossible to pass the thick flames that consumed it. Yet somehow, they moved. The flames were forced to the side, their soft light and violent flames soothed and controlled, pushed against the walls to create a path. This was all Ann could do. She had to make a decision. And hopeful this way right.


She had to leave Micheal, to allow the smoke to enter his lungs in order to save him. For this chance to help him. She could only pray it was enough. That he could see. All she wanted. please save my son... please.. brother... The thick smoke had began to stifle his lungs again, his breathing, even in his unconscious state was smothered with coughs and painful wheezing. The exposure to so much smoke was to much, and it was beginning to quickly effect him. It was lucky he was unconscious, so he couldn't feel the intense burning of flames that ate into his leg. And too think, all of this, was for money..


The car squealed to a stop, spinning to the right and slamming into the side of a wall. The glass next to Cylis's head shattered against his skull, cutting deep into his face. For a moment he was dazed, his head limp as he moaned, slowly bringing himself to reality. It was so hot, so thick. The air, it tasted like ash, like burnt rubber. His eyes suddenly widened as he sprung to life, flinching slightly as he tugged at his leg. It was stuck, pinned by the door that had been crushed against the wall. "Ugh.. " The smoke consumed his lungs as he coughed, his hands pressing hard against the door, trying to bend it back, to move it.. anything.


"Addison.. " He whispered, pulling his head back to look at the ceiling of the car. "You'll fix it right?..." And with those words, he suddenly yanked his leg back, the steel metal ripping deep into his muscle. He couldn't help but let out a yelp of pain, pulling himself out of the passenger door, head first as his hands dragged his bloody leg against the pavement. He grunted in pain, laying on the cold ground. He could feel Addison's presence coming close to him, his warmth touching his skin. It felt like warm water being poured over his wounds, slowly mending them. Healing them. He would not let her get away. He has never failed a job, and he wasn't going to start today.


A hand suddenly found itself around her arm, suddenly twisting it behind her back and pulling her close in front of him. "Where do you think your going?" He whispered, whipping his fresh blood into her hair. Addison kept his presence hidden from sight, still blocking the path between Aiden and his wielders. "You, you have a spirit?" His voice was stern in his question, his grip tight on her arm, twisting it further the more he struggled. He had never meet another like him, and in all honesty, it spiked his curiosity, although, that might not stop him from turning her in. After all, she was an amazing bounty. "I thought I recognized you... your the most wanted. The women with a lot of money on your head... Funny I would find you with such a simple job!"

 

[CharChar45]

Sky reacted with how all her years of training taught her. She jerked back her head, slamming it into the man's nose, loosening his grip on her wrist just enough to where she could slip free. She staggered forward, but was not done yet. She spun around, kicking up her leg and hitting him hard in the gut. "Aiden!" she shouted, feeling his presence blocked by the opposing spirit. He slammed his force against it, twirling around it and arriving back at Sky's side. Sirens began to ring in the air. Sky cursed. "Shit, shit, shit!" she hissed, backing away quickly, though still keeping an eye on the two. "Aiden, help me!" The sirens were getting closer, the sound of police cars rushing towards the scene. Sky had to get out of here, and now.


Frantically, she backed up even faster, not wanting to get caught by either the stranger or the cops. She had to run. It was her only option. But she couldn't head towards the house, not without being seeing. She wouldn't be able to go help Michael. "F*ck!" she shouted, regret flashing in her eyes as she turned around and ran, peeling down an alley. Just move, Sky, move, she told herself over and over again, aware that the man would most likely be following her, Mark had you run all those laps for a reason. So RUN! She moved even faster, her feet flying forward, arms pumping at her sides. Using his own energy, Aiden helped push her forward, expanding his senses to warn her of any approaching enemies. And Sky ran like hell.


Mark shaded his eyes as the flames spread apart, wincing as they flickered towards him. Tilting his head, he followed the now open path, keeping his eyes shielded from the smoke. The flames moved away from him, just barely grazing his skin. And that was when he found them. "Oh, shit," he cursed, jogging forward and dropping by the burning beams side. Hot embers scorched through the wood, but Mark didn't care. He lifted the beam off of him, biting his tongue to keep back a scream of pain, the flames burning his calloused hands. He threw it to the side, then hastily, scooped Michael up into his arms. Then he ran as fast as he could out of the flames.


The mansion continued to collapse behind them, but Mark ignored all of it, not even stopping to cough, but only running, running, running, getting closer and closer to the exit. Mark knew that the front door would be burned down by now, but a window... a window could be their only option of escape. He ran faster, the smoke filling his lungs until he was ready to collapse. Yet he kept moving. Then he saw. The one window that was not burning down. The flames were getting closer, surrounding it like a cloak. Mark pressed forward, using all of his weight to crash through the glass. The cool, crisp night air caressed his skin. He slammed into the ground with a thud, protecting Michael with his own body. Orders were shouted, orders for breathing masks and an ambulance. Mark blacked out.

 

[Darktanion]

He didn't expect her to be so versatile, so strong. He shouldn't have underestimated her, but it was a little to late at this point. He held his gut, pushing himself slowly to his feet. He coughed, jogging forward slightly to watch her vanish down the alley. He grunted, spitting the blood from his mouth. She had quite the hard head. His eyes narrowed as he glanced back at the smoke that hovered heavily in the air. "This isn't over.. " He muttered, suddenly walking towards the smoke. He knew were she would be going next. After all, that flicker of guilt in her eyes was all to obvious. She would return to find that boy. "Come on Addison.. " He scuffled, walking coolly down the road, keeping his head down as the ambulance raced past.


He didn't remember much, only the thick stench of smoke, and the dancing of beautiful, yet painful flames. When he woke the light from the room blinded him, causing him to cringe away. His arm's were heavy, as though they each held ten pound weights, yet there was nothing. His hands found there way to a clear mask that was placed carefully over his mouth. "Anna?" Her presence warmed him, like a light that shinned in a dark room. Carefully removing the mask, he slowly pulled himself up, cringing slightly as he coughed. He could hear dull arguing in the next room, the sound of doctors arguing quietly.


"This report is wrong! You wrote he had third degree burns, severe lung damage. He is completely fine!"


"He was injured! My report was correct!"


"Bullshit.." The doctor snapped back, rusting slightly.


Micheal slowly moved, sliding out from the bed. He had to leave quickly, before they realized who he was. He carefully slid to his feet, staggering over towards the table to the left. They had thankfully left his clothing on, but it seemed they were one the second floor. His clothes were covered in smoke, could he just walk out without drawing attention?


"What about the other one? The man?"


"Hes in the next room, he's in worse shape... We might have to preform a emergency surgery.. "


Micheal paused as they continued, his hands shaking slightly. The person who saved him? He grinded his teeth, glancing over at the opposite door. He couldn't just leave this man, if he had really saved him. Micheal quickly slipped out of the room after the doctors moved, shuffling to the next room over. He shut the door as quietly as possible, hes eyes glancing over to the man curiously. "Anna.. " He walked over slightly, letting his hands pull back the bandages that covered his body.


His body was riddled with burns, deep blisters peeking to the surface. His hands gently glowed as he touched the mans wounds, his skin slowly mending, changing. It took him a while. The man had so many burns, and his lungs were the worst of all, but he seemed to manage. He couldn't help but sigh in relief. He was glad this man was okay, and grateful he saved him.


His body seemed to weigh heavily on him, causing him to let out a breath of exhaustion. He slowly sat down, letting his head rest on the bed side. He felt dizzy, his body drained. He had never asked Ann to help him heal another... was this what it felt like? His hand gripped at his chest, it felt numb, yet it hurt at the same time. Yet, it was all worth it... if he could save this man.. Anna looked at him with concern, placing her hand over his chest. Her touch always made his heart feel lighter. Not like a rock weight in his chest, just like now.


Cylis stood impatiently at the counter, waiting for the women to bring up the room numbers for the two 'survivors'. This wouldn't do at all. The women was less then helpful, calming they could not be seen, which only aggravated him more. But he didn't worry much. After all Addison would find it for him. He would find the boy, and hopefully in the process, that women.

 

[CharChar45]

They were in the clear. Sky finally skidded to a stop, wanting to collapse in relief. She had escaped whoever the hell THAT was, and his spirit. Another wielder, but this was an enemy and not an ally. "Great," she muttered, leaning against the alley wall to catch her breath, "Just f*cking great. First the whole god damn government, and now that f*cker, whoever the hell he is. Can people please just stop chasing me for a day? That would be fantastic." She sighed, letting the brisk, cold air kiss her skin. She had left her jacket back at the mansion, considering she never really got the chance to grab it with everything what had happened. "Alright, Aiden," Sky whispered, shivering in the cold, "Let's go home."


She wrapped her arms around herself, then began to walk. She stuck to the alley ways, slipping over to blend with the shadows when she heard the sound of sirens pass by. Her teeth chattered violently, the cold digging under her skin. Snow was beginning to fall in small white flakes, grazing Sky's cheek. She paused, still shivering, still cold, raising her gaze to the sky, watching the white fluff fall to the ground. Sky tore her eyes away, then continued walking, wrapping her arms tighter around herself. The cold was terrible, but Sky pressed on, her steps becoming slower as frost coated her nose, eyes becoming heavy from weariness. The next step she took caused her to stumble, hitting the icy ground with a thud. How long had she been outside for? An hour? Longer?


The snow began falling faster, and Sky fought to get up, feeling the cold tearing at her skin. Somehow, she found enough strength to drag herself to the nearest wall, sitting herself upright and resting her head against the bricks. She was exhausted and freezing, wanting nothing more but to curl up in a ball and sleep. Aiden swirled around her in concern. "Don't worry Aiden," she whispered, her eyes falling shut, "I have no intentions to let the cold take me down."

 

[Darktanion]

Cylis waited impatiently, his fingers tapping ever to lightly on his jacket. The hospital seemed to be pretty quiet, leaving only the nurses chatter to brake the silence. It wasn't long till a smile swept across Cylis's face, causing him to pull himself from the wall. Addison had found something. His long thick coat whipped behind him as he suddenly began to walk down the hall, his eyes narrowed. This was such a pain.


His body felt so numb, his limbs limp from the weight they weighed down. He let out a breath of exhaustion, sliding down against the cold metal of the bed. His heart hurt, it felt like it was sinking in his chest, falling from him. He slowly melted onto the floor, his hand trembling as its gripped at his chest. It was so painful. "Anna... It hurts.. " He whispered, letting his neck fall limp against the side of the bed. His long thick hair covered his eyes as her presence shifted, slowly but surely warming his chest. Her touch, it helped, it always had. But for some reason, this time, he just felt so tired.


He had never had to heal another person before, and being as inexperienced as he was, it seemed to have taken a toll. But, it was no surprise. He had been non-stop healing him for an hour. Of course it would take it out of him. In his exhaustion he forgot his location, forgetting for just a moment he was still in this hospital, and that he needed to leave soon. But he was so tired. He wanted to rest, to sleep. Just for a minute...


The long silence in the room was broken by the sound of the door creaking open, letting the chatter from the hall suddenly seep in.


Micheal would have looked to see who it was, but his mind was so ready to sleep, to let go, that it barely noticed the sudden noise. But Anna did. She let out a cry as a sudden presence pulled her away from Micheal, pinning her to the corner way from him. Suddenly having her ripped away was painful, causing Micheal to cringe, hunching over as his chest spiked with pain. "Well well... Your alive? .. " A rough had suddenly grabbed his collar, yanking him up to stand.


Cylis stood, his eyes narrowed as he twisted Micheal's hand, pinning it violently behind his back. "Ahh.. " Micheal couldn't help but let out a huff of pain, his legs shaking as his chest pain spiked further. "Troublesome.. Were is the girl kid?..." Micheal grunted as he spoke, trying unsuccessfully to pull from his grasp. "Don't try my patience... I will just kill you now and find her on my own... " Micheal cringed, his thick, yet weak hues flickering back to him. "I'll never tell you... " He muttered, against cringing slightly as his breath became lacerated. "So be it.. " He replied, a wicked smile creeping over his face.


"Perhaps you need some fresh air. Your looking a bit pale." He forced Micheal forwards, his eyes locked on the window. Anna screamed, trying hard to get past the spirit, only to be pushed back. Blocked again. Cylis quietly opened the window, twisting Micheal's hand more to force him towards the opening. "You can fly right?" He laughed, his eyes flickering back to the door. The girl wasn't here, but it was no matter, he would find her soon. Micheal clenched his eyes shut, as his foot tryed to push him away from the sill, only to be forced back again. sky, run... Thats all he could think.

 

[CharChar45]

The scream woke Mark up. His eyes flew open in an instant, breath escaping his lungs in a single moment. Shouts filled the room, a male voice hissing threat after threat, asking Michael if he could fly. Marks gaze flickered over to the scene, his eyes widening at the sight of a man, a stranger, holding Michael out the window while shouting threats. Mark didn't think. He just moved. Spinning to the right, he slammed his fist onto the nurse button next to his bed, the rolled to the left, crashing to the floor and jumping to his feet. All of it happened within an instant. He lunged towards Michael and the man, grabbing Michael and yanking him back, then roughly pushing the man away. "Get the hell outta here, kid," Mark muttered, his dark hues locked onto the stranger, "Now."

 

[Darktanion]

The sudden force backwards cause Micheal's stomach to sink, his vision blurring as his body was yanked back into Mark's arms. He let out a gasp, his eyes wide as he tried to figure out what just happened, who had just saved him. Cylis hissed, sliding back on the sleek floor then hitting with a soft thud against the wall. Cylis tsked, looking over at Mark with angry eyes. "Why don't you move old man? This isn't something you need to interfere with... " Cylis grip tightened around a rubber handle, its blade shining as he grinned wickedly. "After all... we were just playing around... " He gave out a slight laugh slowly tucking the blade back into his coat, letting his stance loosen in a almost playful manor.


He had to rethink his strategy. This had to look like a accident, or suicide, But not murder. So even if he got the kid now, it would only leave him to have to kill a witness. The sound of the door creaking open caused his attention to move. "Shit.. Addison.. " He muttered, taking a step towards Mark and Micheal. The slow creak that echoed in the room suddenly was replace with a thud as the door was suddenly whipped shut. In order to prevent any interference Addison had blocked the door, not allowing the nurse or doctors to come in, nor them to leave. Anna quickly rushed to Micheals side, suddenly thrusting her hand into his chest.


If anyone had been able to see it, it looked like something out of a horror movie, a spirit thrusting there hands into ones chest and ripping their hearts from their bodies. However, this was different. Anna was never usually this rough, but he had also never been forced away from Anna during one of his 'attacks'. Her touch was soft, soothing. His heart, which had suffocated his chest, suddenly seemed lighter, fluttering lightly. Micheal didn't know it, but he had a rather dangerous heart condition, one that would have killed him long ago if it wasn't for Anna. Micheal huffed slightly, letting his hand loosen on his chest as the pain suddenly subsided.


He took a moment to absorb his surroundings, letting his eyes widen as he looked at the back of the man he had just healed, the man who had saved him from the fire. And now, the man who saved him from this stranger. Cylis shifted letting his crystal hues flickering over to Micheal, who slowly got a grip on his weak shaking body. "I'm on a bit of a time crunch, so forgive me if I don't seem in the mood to play... " He took a step towards Mark, pulling the blade from his coat once more. "Step aside... " He breathed, letting his ears twitch at the sound of the nurse pulling and wobbling the door handle. Cylis knew this man wouldn't move, and he didn't have time to wait for him to say it out loud.


In an instant, he thrusted himself forward, his blade stretching out, its sharp tip aiming for Marks face. His movement was proficient, his aim incredible. It was obvious he had been trained. Trained to be a killer. Something he would do till the end of his days, especially if it meant 'she' would not be involved. "No!" Micheal yelled. In an instant, all the lights bulbs shattered, much like the ones in Micheal's house, the sharp points suddenly thrashing down towards Cylis. A smile passed Cylis's lips as he suddenly twisted to the side, letting the shards dig deep into the floor next to him. "That only works once.. "


He practically laughed, again lunged forward, this time aiming for Marks torso. Micheal couldn't help but try to stop him, trying hard to pull Mark back out of the way. This man had already saved him once, he wouldn't let him die because of him. Micheal wasn't a fighter, he never would be, but... he couldn't do nothing. Micheal pulled on Marks arm, taking a step in front of him, closing his eyes in anticipation of the blade finding its way into his flesh.

 

[CharChar45]

The boy was foolish. Brave, but all the same, foolish. He had no experience in fighting, that much Mark could tell by his stance and the much too kind far away look in his eyes. Mark, however, had twenty years of experience under his belt. Michael would have to stop with trying to protect someone who was supposed to protect him. As Cylis swung the blade forward, the point going for Michael's abdomen, Mark lunged, yanking the kid out of the way and holding up his arm up to shield himself from the blade. It dug into his forearm, and he bit back a shout of pain, his face scrunching together as he controlled his breathing. God damn that kid.


"Look, kid," he hissed to Michael, watching Cylis carefully with his sharp eyes, "Stop trying to be the hero. It ain't gonna get you anywhere except dead. Just get the hell out of here and let me handle this. I may be old, but I ain't that old." As if to prove his point, he lunged towards Cylis, wrapping his arm around his throat and restraining him. He gave Michael a solid look, his gaze flickering to the window. "Hope ya can climb, kid. Get going. Now." He held onto Cylis tighter, his eyes scanning the room for a solid object to throw him against, and, hopefully, knock him out. Knowing his luck, however, he doubted that would happen. But it was worth a shot. Using all the strength he could muster, Mark swung Cylis around and flung him against a wall, hoping Michael would use that opportunity to escape.

 

[Darktanion]

Micheal slid backwards, crashing against the wall that stood only a foot from them. He flinched slightly, leaning up against the wall for support as his eyes shot back to Mark. Crimson red dripped steadily down his arm, dripping in thick droplets onto the clear floor. He couldn't listen to this man, the man who seemed to try so hard to protect him. How could he say that? How could he tell him to leave... How could he.. "No!" He barked, pushing himself from the wall as he looked to Mark, his eyes clear with anger, and sadness. "It would be worth dying for. To die to save someone else. Someone who matters.... You.. You tell me not to be the hero, yet all you've done is that. Stop saving me! You don't even know me... Who... who are you... "


His voice became cracked by his emotion, straining to put the words out without straining his voice, or bursting into tears. He could never live with knowing someone died for him, because of him. Cylis grunted, his hand quickly retracting, pulling the blade roughly from Marks flesh. The sudden force to his neck caught him off guard, causing him to suddenly drop the blade next to him. His hands clamped around Marks grip, trying hard to pull his long slender fingers from his neck. His grip was tight, this man was no normal person. He was not told Micheal had a protector, and the fact that he had to find out now only made it more complicated. As Mark slowly lifted Cylis, his feet dangled beneath him, causing his hands to claw even more, his fingertips digging deep into his flesh.


This man may be experienced, but so was Cylis. Pulling himself up by his torso, Cylis kicked hard into Marks torso, only to be suddenly thrown towards the door. He slide across the glossy floor, disappearing behind the medical bed. Micheal's eyes widened as blood slowly seeped onto the floor, pouring from Marks wound. Perhaps he was a idiot, ignoring the obvious danger and rushing again to Mark. But he didn't care. He grabbed Mark's arm, putting his hand over the deep wound as though his hand might stop it. He shut his eyes tight, his hands shaking as they gave a faint glow. Please help me Anna. That's all he could think, all he could muster.


The door rattled heavily, the sound of heavy thudding echoing hard into the room, that was until the door suddenly crashed open, allowing a doctor to stumble slightly in the doorway. Micheal's complexion paled as the wound healed, causing his skin to give off a slightly shinning glow from his body raising in temperature. Again his chest hurt, causing him to flinch slightly. As the door broke, Micheal suddenly dropped Marks arm, taking a step back from him as his blurred vision straightened to see two nurses and a doctor, standing in the door way. "What in the world? What is going on in here!" One of the nurses called out in worry, suddenly rushing forward.


It was quick, as the nurse staff and doctor rushed in, Cylis carefully, and quietly slipped out the door, leaving all of them to wonder. It was easy for him to escape these doctors, after all, they weren't smart enough to even check the corner close to the door. Fools, ones he would take full advantage of. After all, this wasn't over. Not yet. One nurse quickly ran to Mark, ushering him back to the bed. "My dear, what happened? Where did all this blood come from? Please sit sit, you will only further injure yourself!" The nurse promptly lectured Mark, pushing him down onto the medical bed.


The other nurse had ran to Micheal, her voice too whining as she lectured him about not being in his own room. "You shouldn't be in here! What were you thinking.. " The nurse looked around, watching his pale and clammy complexion. "Come now, sit-" She tried to usher Micheal to sit down, however, she was quickly interrupted by a familiar voice. "Well! Were the hell is the little shit!" This tone was all to familiar to Micheal, causing him to retreat slightly, his eyes moving down to the floor in avoidance. The doctor promptly turned around, his path being blocked by Micheal's overly large uncle. His eyes were just as red as the previous night, and of course, he smelt of liquor, which cause the doctors nose to crunch in dislike.


Micheal uncle took no time in spotting Micheal, trying to grab him and leave. However, despite his attempt, he was promptly stopped by the doctor, who demanded to speak to him outside. The nurse gave Micheal a soft smile, telling him to stay put as she carefully exited with the doctor. They had managed to close the broken door, however, Micheal's uncle refused to go any further away for this 'talk'. The other nurse stayed in the room, beginning to pull at Marks bandages. Micheal was to infatuated with the conversation outside to notice, or even worry about the fact they would see him healed.


"Due to the incident, we were forced to preform some necessary test to determine your nephews health-"


"Tests? I never authorized any tests! I'm not paying for those!" Micheal's uncle did not care to keep his voice down, letting his loud voice echo into loud down the hall.


"Please sir, keep your voice down. That is not the issue... After a few test we have discovered a altharythem.-"


"What the hell is tha-"


"Sir please.. your voice.. " The doctor reminded him carefully, glancing back at the thin door between the hallway and room. "A Altarythem is a murmur in the heart. In short, it is a heart defect..."


"....And?"


The doctor narrowed his eyes in disgust as the uncle looked at him uncaringly. "I am telling you your nephew has a severe heart condition. One that, honestly, i'm surprised hasn't killed him already. The fact hes still breathing now is a miracle.. "


"He will need treatment... without it, his heart will not be able to take the blood flow it required to sustain itself. And his heart will stop.. We have a surgery, to operate on the heart, however, the mortality rate is over 98%... The other option is a pill, to be taken daily, to help ... " The doctor slowly handed him a print out of the possible expenses of his options, causing him to pause. The uncle looked at the paper, swaying slightly from his drunken state.


The uncle quickly cut off the doctor, practically spitting in his face as he laughed. "What? Surgery? Pills?.. I am not paying for that shit..!! Over 100,000 for a surgery? I could pay a hit man a tenth of that and get the same damn thing done.. his f*cking death. And pills? Bah! The little shit is still alive. So you can take you mother f*cking papers, and shove them up your ass. Like that little shit it worth saving or investing money into.. "


It was easy to hear him, over all the yelling and harsh words. And the thin walls didn't help either to drowned out the noise. Every word Micheal merely stood silent too, but as the sounds continued, he slowly slide down the wall, letting his hands cover his ears, as though that might stop the noise. From the nurses view, it looked as though Micheal was clawing at his brain, hoping to scrape his ears from his skull. He didn't want to hear anymore, and the more he heard, the further his heart sank into his chest. It was something he always knew. He knew his uncle didn't care. So why did he hope for anything different? As though he might change.


Since his birth he had always been alone, and even when his uncle finally came to take him, it was the same. The dark emptiness, the feeling of never belonging... of never having someone to care for you. To moron for you.. There was nothing.. Perhaps that is why Micheal cared for others so much. Knowing how it felt to have no one to care, to help. Like he could change the world by just helping one person. The only thing in this loneliness that stayed, was Anna. And yet. somehow, it was only barely enough. He couldn't talk to her, hell.. he didn't even know her name. But that was just it wasn't it? The fate he had encountered...


Even being the big singer he was, listened to by millions, and selling millions of copies, he was still alone. Despite those screaming fans, that claimed to love him.. none of it mattered. Because they would never truly understand, the person they saw, was never him. It was someone else. Someone they wanted him to be.. Someone... different. His knees slowly were brought up to his chest, his long thick gray hair covered his ear as a tear streaked down his cheek. It hurt, this deep pain in his chest, yet not as much as it hurt to hear the words out loud. To know he was worth nothing. He could feel it, the soft light coming from Anna as she hovered over him, looking at him with sad, regretful eyes. Why did it have to hurt so much? ..... Why....

 

[CharChar45]

The familiar voice caused Mark to scowl, his nose crinkling in distaste. God, he really hated that bloody bastard. "Don't worry, sis," he muttered under his breath, waving off the nurse impatiently, "I'll take care of him." Ignoring the pain in his arm and the nurse attempting to push him back down on the bed, Mark pushed himself upright, sighing as the nurse ordered him to lay back down. "Look, lady," he snapped, getting slightly annoyed, "I'm trying to help that kid over here, okay? That man ain't gonna do shit for him unless he gets money for it. I will do something." Before she could say anything else, he stormed out, flinging open the door with a single shove. Rick would recognize him, and had always been terrified of him. Mark would make him pay.


In a flash, Mark had shoved his step brother up against the wall, his forearm at his throat, rage storming in his dark eyes. "Nice to see you again, Rick," he said coolly, his gaze not once leaving his. "I'm sorry bout all the trouble this drunk has caused, doc. I personally will make sure all the bills necessary are paid in full." He paused, tilting his head and daring Rick to challenge him. "Rick here will pay all the necessary medical bills, and, if he does not pay them, I'm pretty sure people will find him and arrest him, etc. While he pays those bills, I'll be working on gaining custody of Michael for the next 6 months, cause I actually give a damn unlike this motherf*cker." He doubted Rick would refuse, especially considering the fact that he knew very well what Mark was capable of.