December 4th, Chicago. Base.

Ryan felt nearly startled when her hand touched his, and he broke his stare at Amante, to see how Alice motioned the man to leave. What was just as surprising was that he did leave. So, there had to be something between them, something that made Amante look so rejected and hurt by this little thing. And, yet, Alice had chosen him, not Amante whom she might know for so longer, who could be her ex-boyfriend, who...

Ryan looked at Alice, and seeing her frown, hung head down. "I'm sorry," he said quietly. She was displeased with his little display, apparently, and it was understandable. Alice had seen only nice side of him, but there was so much he had done and experienced that made him so different from the heroic types. Anger, jealousy even, unexplained dislike, not controlling his emotions... All of that was what he took from streets, not gentleman like at all.

"I am not a good guy, you know," he told her, in serious manner and then sighed softly. "But thank you." He squeezed her hand in return, and then, with still heavy heart, returned to the story reading, trying to pretend nothing had happened, and he hadn't been just reminded that despite wish to protect Alice's peace, he was just a street rat in his actions after all.

December 5th, Chicago. Sewer #17.

Aiolia had offered to take Amante back in The Cat, so he didn't have to walk all the way back. She was on her way to Surface and it was no problem to take him along. The girl looked tired and weary, she tried to hide the fact she was sometime limping when exhausted. Aiolia wasn't exactly the chat all the time, but now she was even more quiet. Few times it seemed she wanted to say or ask something, but she never said it.

Aiolia wished him good luck and good day, when Amante got out, and then disappeared into the sewer shadows. It was hard to tell if Leila's shadows had already come home before, or tagged along with the car. Their mistress however, was nowhere around, not even in her tent, despite the fact it was night, or maybe early morning.

Leila had found a nice, clean niche, some distance from the outpost, above the regular sewer floor level in which she now sat and observed her surroundings. It felt safer, more distanced from people than her tent, and if not for the mission, Leila would surely move it to here. The Shadow mission had went well and she had nearly finished the map path to Base. But with it, she was also growing more restless, wanting this all over quicker, and it showed in attitude. Now no one at the outpost really dared to bother her, because her glare sent chills down their spines.

December 4th, Chicago. Base.

She wanted to stop him and tell him he was wrong for thinking so little of himself. At least she didn't feel that way about him. Her hand held onto his until he had to turn a page and she relaxed against the pillows. She'd drifted in and out of sleep a few times, her body exhausted from the stress of the two men mentally slaying each other.

Alice woke up again as he finished the book, trying to be discreet about having fallen asleep. She started to turn onto her side so she was facing him and she gave him a tired smile. Ok, so she couldn't hide it all completely.

December 5th, Chicago. Sewer #17.

Amante accepted the offer and rode along inside the Cat. Neither of them said much of anything to each other as both parties radiating their own issues. Finally, when the Cat stopped, he hopped out and suggested Aiolia be careful before walking into the outpost.

Leila wasn't anywhere around and her shadows must have been preoccupied- something good managed to come out of her little servants following him. He went into her tent and planted the device, then left it without a word and while trying to not look suspicious.

Running a hand through his hair, he'd picked up her scent just to know where she was, and went to his own tent to relax.

December 4th, Chicago. Base.

Ryan noticed that Alice fell asleep few times, and at those times, he read in quiet voice or stayed silent for a while, thinking about what had happened ever since he had been contacted by that woman... Things sure had changed, and while the man was inclined to think that for the best, sometimes the feeling of dread grew rather strong. Ryan was unsure of his position in this new "life" and place, but insecurity and instability was the beginning of downfall on the streets.

When Alice turned on her side, to face him, Ryan smiled at her. "Are you still tired? Maybe I should go and let you rest. I think they will be soon coming for our checkups anyways," he finished thoughtfully and closed the book.

December 5th, Chicago. Sewer #17.

Later that morning, despite her (not wholehearted) efforts, it was visible that Leila was fuming. Everyone got out of her way, when equipped with her backpack and crossbow, the girl headed out for her patrol. A bit more and omnious aura would be visible around her.

The reason was quite simple: Amante had been in her tent. Her shadows had failed their simple task and let him in. And leave something there. At least they had warned her about the lingering presence of his, but still, the item had not been found. It agrivated her and in a way, made her feel insecure. If she couldn't trust her shadows to keep her and her belongings protected, then how could she feel safe even in the slightest? Needless to say, there had been long mental disputes with the beings.

December 4th, Chicago. Base.

She reached out to him as he started to speak about leaving her alone. She didn't want him to go, leaving her alone even if it wouldn't be for long. Alice had a hard time keeping her eyes open, her hand drifting toward the edge of the bed as she reached for him.

He could see something, though it was brief and easily missable, but it was there and subtle. If there was a diagram for comfort, it was there before him. A bed with soft pillows and a gentle companion. The sensation of tiredness radiated from her and became more and more evident in her body language until she all but passed out in her bed.

Her breathing was low and unnoticeable save for the gentle rising and falling of her chest. She'd fallen asleep in the same sort of awkward position she had changed to in order to face him with her hand stretched out to touch his and bring him some kind of comfort.

December 5th, Chicago. Sewer #17.

Snoring in a high up spot in the sewer pipe system, sunlight streaked over his features as he slept. He'd fallen asleep during the night nearby a drainage hole in the side of a street. There was a bottle in his hand though it was nearly empty. Amante grunted, his leg drifting off from the pipes and hanging. He was considerably high up, a good forty feet most likely. Either he went outside and came back in via a manhole or he found a way to climb up there, though without claws it was unlikely.

Just outside, through the drainage slot in the side of the road, was an old blues house. They played, though rarely, and he'd fallen asleep while listening to their music. Live music was rare in these times, a delicacy to some. He enjoyed it when he could.

December 4th, Chicago. Base.

Ryan took her hand as it reached for her, brushed thumb over it and smiled at her. That moment, he saw the brief vision, image, so faint he could only wonder if it was his imagination or something Alice had wanted him to see. He would later decide for the latter. The scene filled him with a strange warmth. But he couldn't linger on it for long, when the girl fell asleep.

He held her hand for a little longer, and then, let go and slowly, stood up. Carefully, Ryan put the girl on her back and pulled blanket higher up, although his left hand fingers were still weak and clumsy. He leaned, gripping on bed post awkwardly and kissed her on forehead softly, complying to sudden wish. She was so sweet and young, such gentle, easy dream... Yet so hard to accomplish in this torn world, where everyone was a vulture. But they could fight for it, yes, they could...

Ryan sat back down in his chair, looking at Alice, until sleep claimed him as well, and after a little while, nurse came to check on them. Seeing them asleep, she took the man back to his room and postponed the procedures a little so the two could rest.

December 5th, Chicago. Sewer #17.

Around the outpost, various rumors were going. Some spoke about a strange creature crawling trough the sewer tunnels, on the walls and even ceiling. No one had been killed yet, but everyone was scared of it. Some other rumors spoke of Amante and the strange "magnet" that drew him to Base. Leila didn't listen very carefully to either, but took note. That's why she had taken extra weapons to the patrol today.

Still angry, although calming down the deeper in the sewers she went, Leila was vary of her surroundings. But there was nothing suspicious, no sounds, sights or smells to catch her attention. Until something, strangely alike snoring, reached her ears, coming up from above. The girl threw her back and narrowed her eyes, staring at where the noise came. Light shining up there was faint, for it was a gloomy day, but it was enough to assure that there was someone up there. What's more, she could bet it was Amante.

"That man..." she thought. To be up there, he had to be dead or passed out, in one way or another. How he had gotten up there, she had only vague idea, though. Various ideas came to the girl's mind, such as slaughtering him then and there, and many ways how to do it, without becoming a suspect, but something, just a thin thread of restraint held her back and made her chose a different path.

Leila's fist clenched by her side and shadowy wings spread from her back. With few movements, Leila was hovering next to the man. Her face was stiff, eyes narrowed, and more like a mask than face of a human capable of emotions.

"Wake up, you snooping bastard," she hissed, and kicked him solidly in side, sending Amante off the pipe. Leila did not want him to fall, though, and even if he did not manage to catch on the pipe, shadow tentacles would tie the man to it. "Listen up! I offer you a simple deal: you promise me to get the fuck out of my way and stay there, to not involve your self with me and my business anymore in any way, and never snoop trough my stuff again, and I help you up, scum." She paused, and then her boot came dangerously close to his hand - yet slightly out of his reach. "Or, if you don't, you fall, and if you're not dead instantly, I finish you off. Really, that would even be nice of me, even, to relieve you of pain." Her voice dripped with malice. "No one will suspect me, and even if they do... I don't give a damn."

December 5th, Chicago. Sewer #17.

His eyes snapped open when she kicked him, a hand instinctively grabbing at a pipe as his body flew over the edge and hung. Amante cursed as the bottle dropped down and shattered on the sewer floors, frowning up at a dark looking Leila. growling, he swiped at her but missed, tear at her shoe a bit.

"I didn't go through your things." Frowning still, he continued, "As a traitor, you're overreacting." He pointed at her with his free hand, "you're the one who should be hanging fro mthe pipe, asking for mercy." His eyes bulged as he hiccuped, his hand moving over his mouth as he groaned. Don't vomit, you'll ruin your speech. He cleared his throat and looked up at her.

"Besides, they'll know you did it," He hiccuped again, "And no one would miss me. So go ahead- show us what a great fucking assassin you are." Amante was not one for cursing, especially at another person. something was wrong. He always saw the good in others but... not now. He knew Leila was evil, though whether she wanted to be evil was another story.

December 5th, Chicago. Sewer #17.

Leila's expression didn't change, it was possible that his words simply didn't reach her. It wasn't entirely true, though. The word traitor rang in her head a few times, but she braced her self against it. Job's a job, she was no Judas - it wasn't for money. Right or wrong, no one would judge her and find the truth.

"To be a traitor, you have to care for that thing first," she said. Leila had never thought about Rebellion or its cause much, she avoided doing so. There was a base of idea that could touch her, but it was not in her plans.
"And it was never about being a 'great assassin'." Her voice was just as emotionless as before, despite she let a well hidden thought leak. Her boot stepped on his hand with a crunch and shadowy tentacles dragged him down full force. Mentally, the girl winced, but in reality, her eyes followed Amante's fall.

She was not happy with the outcome, Leila had been quite sure he would choose the sensibly way. But apparently, Amante was stuck in self wallowing phase and took it as a sort of 'release'. In a way, Leila could understand it.

With quiet thud, Leila landed near Amante and walked over to the man. She swiftly looked his body over, taking note how he was still conscious. The shadows held his wrists down, but not too tightly.
"This is such a waste, really," the girl tsked softly, kneeling and taking needle out of her backpack, then finding the liquid barrel somewhere hidden in her clothing, maybe behind belt. "I thought you would have more sense than this. But what could I expect. You are just a man," she said, putting the syringe together. Apparently, it was a 'label' of some kind, maybe even curse word, in her opinion.

"Still, this will be over for you soon. Can't let you wallow in pain for hours." Leila turned his palm upside down - it was bruised on knuckles, but she could still inject the poison in the vein without problem. Leila was used to talking with victims, in fact, many men had taken her deepest secrets to the other side with them.

December 5th, Chicago. Sewer #17.

Amante scoffed at her, "Right. Your mission was to make us believe you wanted to be a part of us- a part of a team. The illusion makes you a traitor because anyone could have believed what you told us was the truth." Amante huffed, "you're just a liar." His chest started to burn and shadows pulled at him. He kicked at them and let go of the pipe when she crushed his hand under her foot.

He managed to flip on his way down, landing on his feet. But it wasn't enough. He yelped out in pain and collapsed onto his side. A piece of bone stuck out from his ankle and foreleg, the other likely just as bad off. He leaned onto his elbows and watched her come down infront of him, taking hi hand after he lay on his side and readying the injection. "So is this what you wanted? A life, alone, without anyone to care about you?" He huffed in a way that could lead her to believe he understood her, because he did.

"what is your mission, anyway? Kill Elek? Aiolia? Rat out the location?" He flexed his arm so she could get a vein, one blue wavy line popping up almost instantly. "Or are you just doing this for fun? Fucking with peoples lives like it's some kind of fucked up game?" He wanted to hear her tell him he was wrong and that none of it was her mission, or that she at least had a change of heart. but then he thought none of that mattered.

"The graveyard you went to... who did you visit?" He looked at her, stared at her face and into her eyes as the poison barraded his system and worked to shut down his body, but he was able to fight it just a little bit.

December 5th, Chicago. Sewer #17.

Amante's words were like an open fire. Inwardly, she winced, even though not a muscle moved on her face. Leila sometimes let her self to be vulnerable in words, but the more time passed, the harder it was for her face to change to reflect her feelings. It rooted in the time that for each frown, quivering lip, or smile, she would get beaten. It was safer to spur hateful words than to cry.

"If you haven't noticed, lying is the only way to get what you want in this world. Or else you get stomped on, like a snail, by a bigger liar," the girl replied stiffly. Her voice grew monotone again now. Amante was indeed strong, to bear such pain and still lecture her. Such a waste, pity, pity. And still, annoying as hell. He was on his finish line, yet, he tried to appeal to her, and did a pretty damn good job at it, too. Leila would admit only over her dead body, though.

"No one is born wanting that," she replied simply and pushed the air out of the syringe. Indeed, just fifteen years ago, the thing Leila had wanted the most was for her mommy to be healthy. The girl's jaw tensed for a moment, as if she was fighting something inside - maybe tears. But that was just a second, and then it was gone.
"But you see, even your noble honesty has given you no one 'to miss you', as you put it. So, I rather give the world what it gave me."

She injected the poison and looked in Amante's face. Her eyes were now more human like than cat and they looked nearly dead, void of emotions, except at the very depth. "My mission? No, none of that is my mission. But all of it is my job. Only when I am done with this, I can carry out my mission." It had occurred to Leila, that after this she would have the blood of countless people on her hands, even if indirectly. But she would also be the one who ends the tyranny. It was all so difficult to explain, to even understand, the girl felt like laughing. "At least I have a goal to make me fight on, 'till the very end, unlike you. Your noble cause isn't that worth fighting and living for, apparently."

Amante's next question hit her mentally. Leila said nothing, simply averted her gaze, staring at the wall. At this moment, when she had just dealt a death to a man who carried some principles of her father, she could not call their names, speak of them. Her goal might not make her methods right, but she was far beyond redemption by the age of fourteen already, her hands pushed into the blood bath and stained for eternity. Still, their name was untouchable for her in moments like these.
"It will be all over soon," quietly Leila said, suddenly. It wasn't sure if she meant his life, her mission or job (what was the difference between them anyways, to Amante?), or something completely else.

December 5th, Chicago. Sewer #17.

He felt the poison urging through him and continued to stare at her, listening to her words. He grinned and chuckled softly. "You must have no hope." He tried to sit up but failed and caught a glimpse of something crawling along to walls. Frowning, he continued, "Knowing you will never feel love... it's unbearable." He spoke as if he knew this kind of loneliness.

Amante crawled a little bit closer to her, wincing as the poison began to hut him. Whatever it was, it was high quality shit and it wasn't taking it's time to affect him. He reached out, grabbing her by the back of her head. "As my death wish, let me part on you this gift." His hand gripped her by her hair and pulled her down to him as he leaned up, pressing his lips to hers as his eyes followed the moving figure behind her.

His lips lingered to hers, firm and warm, and finally they parted. Not letting her go, he leaned closer to her and whispered right into her ear, "Run." Before he could say more, a creature roared as it lunged out. Amante threw Leila with surprising force to the side wall of the tunnel.

The creature slashed at him despite his arms coming up to block the attacks. It was rather horrible looking- scorched, tanned skin with welts and what looked like net-shaped patches of flesh. It screeched, roaring, as massive claws tore at his arms and Amante simply clenched his teeth while enduring the pain. As skin flew away from him, exposing his bones and blood covering the female figure above him, he let out a yell of pain and lurched forward, vomiting onto the female.

This enraged the woman further and what looked like a spiny tail whipped out around the air behind her, stabbing right into one of his knees, destroying the bone inside. The end of the tail, similar to a dagger, twisted and began to grind up the knob along with pieces of flesh and muscle tissue.

December 5th, Chicago. Sewer #17.

Leila glanced at him, to see the man grinning. "What kind of person says that and smiles?" she thought, frowning lightly, but then looked away. He really was tough, to be able to even talk during the poisoning. The girl had even injected a little over the dose the man of his size would need. Leila could not understand Amante, no matter how hard she tried. There was something that made him different than the typical noble-I-had-a-bad-life type, but the girl couldn't make out what it was.

Well, besides his damned arrogance, that is. Taken by surprise, Leila didn't manage to avoid ending up mouth to mouth with him. It was more like a lip smack than a kiss, but her eyes went wide and the girl was obviously taken aback. He whispered something in her ear, and in that moment, she regained ability to move. "What the..." she gasped and pushed him away, but it was badly timed, and Amante threw Leila against the wall next moment.

Shadows cushioned the crush and for a brief moment, she disappeared in the darkness. Leila watched in horror the scene evolving before her, but then she lunged forwards. Instead of the fair girl, there was just a shadowy body, yet it more firm and detailed than that of regular shadow minions. Among the pair of shadow wings on her back, now there were tentacles that grabbed the strange female monster by limbs and pulled her back. With a whirl in the air, Leila threw the being against the wall, then the other, while some shadow minions attached themselves to it, covering its sight. Deep gashed opened on being's body, from their scratches and stabs.

Leila aimed and shot, but the poisoned arrow hit not chest, but leg, and not with enough force to harm the being. "Fuck," Leila thought and then flew higher, still trying to restrain the monster with shadows, while she worked on her other magic. It was safer to work ranged with this one, for sure. Without an audible command, bunch of shadows partially covered and hid Amante.

December 5th, Chicago. Sewer #17.

He yelled out again as the females claws tore at his chest, removing a decent sized chunk of flesh and tossing it into her mouth before continuing at him. His eyes were fluttering shut even though he fought them. He'd lost so much blood and chunks of skin. Fighting off the poison in this state was near impossible.

Luckily, as his arms started to give, the shadows reached out and flailed the creature around. She roared, dark red hair mangled on her skull and down the top of her spinal. Sharp claws tore at the shadows and despite being blinded by them, she could still "see" her surroundings.

Wriggling out of their grasp, she landed down on all fours. she'd taken a few cuts and hits from them but she hadn't slowed down. Slicing at the shadows with her back to a wall, she growled. Even her face looked badly burned though it was normally hidden by waves of mangled hair. She snapped at them, eyes glowing yellow, and shrieked when an arrow punctured her leg.

The arrow snapped under her grip and she tore it out, throwing it in Leila's direction. The shadows over her eyes were still there, strong and lasting, but they did not seem to encumber her abilities. She ran up along the wall on all fours, gnashing and clawing at shadows as they grabbed at her again and again until, finally, she broke free and made a lung for Leila herself.

December 5th, Chicago. Sewer #17.

Leila fled aside, when the being launched an attack. It whipped around quickly enough, and sprung for another one, but this attack was as unsuccessful as previous one. Although there was a solidness of sorts about Leila's new form, whenever the creature tried to hold her, her claws simply slid trough her, and the girl also managed to avoid most of the attacks. It was a chase more than a fight now, with shadows attempting to slow the monster down. One shadow was even as bold as try to claw its eyes out.

Leila, aided by shadows, managed to start the first cycle of her magics, the blood slowly withdrawing from creatures limbs inside her body and gushing out of her cuts, therefor weakening her in various ways. It became hard to move for the being and strength left her quickly. Shadows left more and more cuts, trough which the life power left the monster. And Leila was still always out of her reach and untouchable.

December 5th, Chicago. Sewer #17.

Her tail whipped around, keeping a good portion of the shadows at bay. Her body fet weighed down and slowed even though she continued to crawl toward Leila. One shadow in particular lashed out at her face and she gnashed it in her teeth, chewing it up as she continued toward her prey. The shadows seeped out between her teeth and fell away like a little pile of sludge, let to rejuvenate over time.

But the closer she got, the slower she moved. Her body hurt and the blood was starting to come out. Snarling, her tail dispatched the rest of the shadows and she inched back from Leila. As her body began to come back to, she was obviously not happy with the turn of events, and fled up the walls of the tunnel and hurried off.

As for Amante, he lay on the tunnel floor with a lot of skin missing, even a bit from his face. Blood soaked through his clothes and stained the concrete flooring. Surprisingly enough, he still had a heartbeat though it was faint.

December 5th, Chicago. Sewer #17.

Leila considered chasing the monster, but then she looked back to Amante. Landing, her body slowly reverted to normal, the shadows again replaced by bones and flesh. There were marks of claws on her body, but the cuts were faint and nearly didn't bleed. While she had been in a half physical form, the attacks had harmed her slightly, but, in a bit, if she stayed in shadow form, they would disappear, her body simply restored.

The girl checked for Amante's pulse, seemingly unaffected by the bloody, rather disgusting sight before her. Leila had seen much worse, and some had been caused by her own hands. She preferred clean job, though. Finding that he was alive still, much to the girl's surprise, she mulled something over and then quickly injected him something. Becoming a shadow one more and merging with the ones on walls, Leila disappeared, in the direction of outpost.

It took about half hour more, for medic and few other man to rush in the scene. Amante was quickly put on stretcher and hurriedly carried away. Apparently, someone had contacted with the Base and it took about fifteen more minutes for Aiolia to arrive with the cat. Amante's stretcher was carefully placed on the back seat, and Aiolia only managed to throw Leila a menacing look, before they drove away.

Leila had told the people that the two of them had been attacked unexpectedly and she had been knocked out, so until she woke up, the monster had managed to do all of the damage. They would not find any traces of poison in his blood - it was designed to not leave marks and although he would never know it, she had given him something to help cleaning it out. If she was going to help him, not finish him off, Leila didn't want anyone to know she was involved.

Aiolia's thoughts were a mess, and she had hard time being careful in the sewer turns, but luckily, nothing bad happened. When they reached the base, she even managed to softly slow down, so Amante wouldn't be thrown on the floor. Elek was already at the entrance, pacing impatiently, along with the doctor and few nurses. He was told that Amante was in bad shape, but this was far beyond what he had imagined.

Elek's mind filled with blood and pain, when his friend was taken out of the car, placed on the motorized stretcher and quickly moved to the hospital. He ran along, Aiolia on the other side, until doctor commanded him to back off. Elek and Aiolia wanted to be with Amante, though, so they stayed in corridor, still in state of shock.

Ryan had just wheeled out of his room, after procedure. He stopped, and watched, how the group rushed in, barely recognizing the lump of flesh on the stretcher. But then he realized it was this "Amante" guy and curiosity (as well as tiny bit of compassion and pity) overwhelmed him. But the man realized it wasn't good time to ask the "leader" any questions. He decided to linger in the corridor for a bit more, though.

December 5th, Chicago. Sewer #17.

Whatever she had injected him with had started to neutralize what little poison was left over in his torn apart system. It took a little bit of time for the CAT to show up, some parts of his skin already healing up. His neck was fine, no longer cut up a bit, and his ankles were starting to look a little bit normal. His arms, however, were still mostly without flesh and his chest had a large hole in it.

During the rushed car ride to the base, his ankles were the main parts that healed up but bone still pressed up under his skin. The vehicle came to a sudden stop and he was pulled out, still unconscious, and hurried inside. It wasn't long before he was hooked up to a saline pack and the liquid was being pushed into his body. However, it did not go over very well at first as the only main arteries available were in his thighs and neck.

After the drip point was moved to his neck, they were able to see some improvements... until his eyes flashed open. Fur tore up under what skin he had left and he yelled out, his cry soon turning to a roar matched with the crashing of metal on the wall as he threw a surgery table away from him. The doctors and nurses fled, as they knew they should, and the furred man stood up from his bed.

With ankles fully restored and long nails tearing out from his shoes, he threw a thin, bony arm out at the bed and groaned, staggering down. Fur rose up from the skin and muscles began to grow and reform on that same arm. Yellow eyes squinting shut, and both arms nearly fully restored, the whole in his chest began to close. Fur shuffled across the healing parts of his body and he groaned as it continued until no injuries were noticeable.

Immediately after his recovery, he howled again and thrashed his arms about the room, tearing at the bed and purely metal objects, for the most part. Despite being crazed by the pain, he was still able to be selective about his targets. He knew well enough how expensive medical equipment could get and what was more easily replaceable- these things being his targets.

December 5th, Chicago. Sewer #17.

"Aiolia, go," Elek quietly told the girl, when the noises started in the room and the doctor with nurses left the room in hurry. "But..." "Just go." Aiolia sighed and complied. It was true that she would be of no help to either of them, and that no one would be, but it stung nonetheless. Glancing at the corridor, she noticed Ryan was there and frowned, but did not go to him. The girl chose to do some paperwork and maybe train instead.

Elek stood near the doors of the preparation room, leaning forehead against it. The pain radiated from within as well as faint scenes he couldn't exactly understand. Leila? Music? Some sort of alcohol... More pain, disappointment... They were so chaotic, Elek couldn't make anything out of them. "Amante, I know it hurts, very much, I am sorry. Very sorry," he spoke in his friends mind, wrapping his energy around it like a soothing blanket. He worked on Amante's brain to make it feel as if the pain was lessening. It would leave no harm and was not too forceful.

"When you calm down, they will give you pain killers. And you will tell me what happened. It will be fine," Elek tried to assure him self more than Amante, who most likely realized that he would certainly survive at this point. It was just matter of waiting for the pain to go away. Elek's fists clenched, in anger about who had hurt his friend so. And the scenes kept coming in his mind, as he tried to piece them together... The revealing scene did not please him in the slightest.

Ryan slowly wheeled in Alice's room and stopped by her bed. He still felt a little bad and awkward about yesterday's situation, when he looked in Alice's eyes. Especially now, when he could hear how the man suffered pain in nearby room. It had to be him, right? These inhuman sounds was made by Amante. He was not biased against anyone, but rumors and myths wrapping around the Monster rank, especially the infamous vampires and werewolves, were quite threatening. Ryan shivered a little, again wondering how the gentle girl and this man could be involved with each other.

[B]December 5th, Chicago. Sewer #17.[/B

He roared out, backhands a little chair into the wall. It crumbled up into a metal ball and hit to floor. As Elek came closer and began communicating, the werewolf groaned and knelt down, holding it's head. Pictures and visions slurred around in his mind. The ivory girl elsewhere in the hospital and sent him on a depressed stupor the night before. He'd gone out, bought some alcohol and slummed around the old blues tavern.

When it had grown dark, he retreated to the sewers but continued to listen to the soulful music. It had put him at peace but, at the same time, gave him to depression. Groaning, the werewolf started to stand and calm, but pain snapped in his chest and he started to tear at the medical bed, slicing at metal until it finally broke.

Leila had found him while he was sleeping. they had argued and he had fallen. It looked like she was going to help him up when he threw her aside and a burned up creature attacked him. Leila had tried to fight it off and, eventually, it ran away. The wrapped up the imagery, though the memory of the pain hauntd his mind.

Staggering back and gasping, his chest snapped again and he put his hands to his head. Yellow eyes shut as Elek helped calm him and his body began to shift. The fur receded under his skin, excess falling off of him in clumps, until the human version of Amante was all that stood in the room, among the mess, and in nothing but a pair of torn up, bloodied boxers.

He swallowed and tried to open his eyes, immediately stumbling down against the side of the bed. He sighed and touched at his chest. He was fine, everything was ok.



Alice was sitting up in her bed, pillows stuffed behind her back, and she listened to the horrific sounds coming from up the room. She perked up a bit when Ryan entered the room and her hand moved across the bed for him to take. She didn't know what was going on, for sure, but she felt a resemblance from the horrific roars and cries coming from up the hallway. Maybe Ryan knew something and she looks at him, wondering if he did.

December 5th, Chicago. Sewer #17.

They way Amante's memories flashed in Elek's mind, made him think of kaleidoscope. He had seen some child play with it once, and for a brief moment, his childhood's black and white world had become lit with colors. But this one, was sick and twisted kaleidoscope, filled with hateful feelings, pain and blood. The man groaned slightly, but did not loosen the hold of Amante's brains, soothing his pains.

Finally, it all slowed down and the growls subsided. Elek mentally tumbled out of Amante's mind and staggered physically. After a moment, he gathered up and hurried in. Supporting Amante, letting him lean on fully, Elek helped him move to another room and there he could sit down on bed. "Do you need painkillers? I will get some clothes arranged for you. We can talk about everything later. Just tell me if you're fine now." The nurses were waiting behind doors now, fidgeting and waiting for Elek to say it was alright to come in.


Ryan took her hand, with a small smile, and then winced at another roar. He understood the questioning look Alice was giving him and shrugged with the good shoulder. "I think, the man that visited us yesterday, got injured. But by the sound of it..." he paused as something broke few rooms down the corridor, "he is going to be well soon. Their kind heals fast, from what I heard." Ryan tried to not sound discriminating, but a bit of distaste sneaked in his voice. Not because Amante was werewolf, no. He was holding the hand of precious root from which their dislike grew, right now.

December 5th, Chicago. Sewer #17.

Amante leaned on him a bit but was able to walk forward as he was led around. He gave nothing more than a grunt and slid up onto a bed. Sighing, relieved, his body eased into the bent up mattress of the bed. Swallowing, he smacked his mouth and motioned to his side, "Water should do. And some food. I'm starving." He sniffed and glanced over at the nurses standing around the doorway. "Make it bloody."

After those words, eyes still glowing a faint yellow, he rolled over onto his side so his back was to the doorway and the women. He showed no intention of moving again until he was brought food and maybe those fresh clothes Elek was talking about.


Alice gave a slow nod, listening to him. But when he said "their kind" she wanted to know more. She sat still for a few moments, staring off as the cries grew quieter. Nodding to herself, she slowly turned her body to face him. The blanket slowly rolled off of her as she put her hands on the armrests of his chair. She pulled herself toward him with some trouble, gently laying a hand on his shoulder as she came closer.

White hair cascaded down, touching at his neck and chest. Her body twisted around, her back pressing to him, and she dropped right into his lap. Her legs dangled ontop of his and she pushed herself p on him, getting more comfortable with her head leaning against the side of his neck. Alice looked up at him and gently tapped on his good arm. She was expecting him to take her to the wounded man, whom they thought to be Amante.

December 5th, Chicago. Sewer #17.

Elek shook his head slightly, as if in disbelief about something, and left. His mind was still full with the scenes from Amante's memories and he was sure he recognized the monster that had attacked his friend. But that conversation would have to wait. It seemed that Leila had hurt Evan enough for her to not attack someone for at least a day, and by then, everything should be discussed with Eve. Elek was not looking forward to that conversation.

Most nurses left the doorway, some having duties to attend to, others just jumping on the chance to get away. Most of Rebellion consisted of regular people, many of them still felt vary of the Changed ones, some did not even trust their honesty fully. At cases like these, everyone tensed, but with time, most of the personnel learned to accept the fact many strange things happened in their hospital. There were those who took pride and joy in helping and saving those that were more powerful than them.

"A-Alice, what are you doing?" Ryan looked startled, at the sudden determination with which Alice was suddenly moving. His cheeks flushed, when their faces came so close, but when he realized what the girl wanted to do, Ryan helped her get on his lap to his best ability. Alice was so small and light it really was not hard.

"Is everything alright, are you comfortable?" he asked softly, wrapping right arm around her, to support and hold the girl safe. Ryan was understandably surprised at her actions, but for some reason, it brought a happy smile to his face. Until the man understood what Alice wanted, that is.

The slight flush left his cheeks and his eyes darkened, not so much in color than emotionally. Corners of Ryan's mouth dropped and the expression suddenly became dark. It seemed the man struggled with something, his lips twitching few times as if he wanted to say something and then Ryan huffed. "Fine."
"Fine, I will take you to him. But that will be the only time."
With jaw tense, now avoiding to look at Alice, the man slowly wheeled towards the doors that were thankfully left open. His grip on the girl grew firm, nearly too tight to be comfortable.

Nurses looked at the strange pair moving down the corridor with wary expression, but one chose to help him and push the chair to his chosen room. The woman seemed slightly surprised at Ryan's chosen destination, but didn't say anything and few minutes later, they were left at room's doors. "Mr. Amante, you've got visitors," the nurse said, knocking on the doors. "Mr. Royce is returning soon, too." With that she left.

Ryan wheeled deeper in the room, not really caring for Amante's attitude, but did not go near the bed. "Are you alright?" he asked stiffly, wanting to add that it was Alice wanted to know that, but at the same time, wishing to conceal her interest in the man, as much as possible. A moment later, Elek came upon the scene that nearly literally screamed "tense and awkward" and halted on the doors. He was holding a big tray, some clothes thrown over his arm, and now was not sure if to come in or leave for now.

December 5th, Chicago. Sewer #17.

Alice nodded, telling him she was comfortable, and lay her hands over his until he moved them to push on the wheels. He started to push them out of the room and down the hall and she noticed his grip getting a bit tight. With a hand laying over his, she urged him to give her some room to breathe. When she was able to adjust her hand, she took in a noticeable breath and exhaled.

Finally, with the help of a nurse, they were able to get to the room. Inside, where they soon began to enter, Amante was laying on the bed. He was grumpy and didn't really want to see anyone, especially not that Ryan jerk- until a familiar smell reached his nostrils. He turned up to look at them, seemingly better already and lay on his back. He glanced to the side and saw Elek, motioning him in, "C'mon, I'm starving." Amante sat up in the bed and took the tray when Elek gave it to him.

Sitting up, one leg bent so his foot pressed into his other thigh, and his other leg dangled off the side of the bed. He didn't seem to have any interest for utensils and yet his hands hardly became dirtied with food. He licked off the excess food from his fingers as he spoke to them, or just Alice, "You came to see me, eh?" He couldn't help but let a skewed grin stretch on his face. "That's nice..." he took another bite of the food and continued, "How're you feeling? Better?"

Alice gave a nod, smiling to know he was ok. She looked to Ryan and gently pet her hand over his, the one holding her around the waist. It was her little way of showing affection as well as an attempt to keep him calm. Something about these two always raised the others blood pressure. It was a constant cycle of dislike and she could sense it.

Amante didn't react to this well though it was mostly his face tensing and his chewing becoming more... intent. He swallowed his food and leaned back, crossing his legs at the ankles. His body was up for show; rippling muscles curving and diveting in places where normal humans had to spend their whole lives to get. He wasn't particularly bulky but he was certainly well built. None of it really seemed to phase Alice but, honestly, he was mostly showing it off to intimidate Ryan. "Well, as you can see, I'm fine." Squirm, filth, squirm!

December 5th, Chicago. Sewer #17.

Ryan's hand tensed under hers, as if the touch gave him no comfort this time. His eyes were narrowed, looking at Amante with nearly murderous intent. If looks could kill, there wouldn't be even pile of ashes left from the werewolf. The fact Alice didn't seem affected by Amante's showy state was not much of relief. It made Ryan wonder if she was used to it - maybe they were a couple? Or had been? The man on bed seemed to be much older than her, though... Although, Ryan knew the same 'crime' could be assigned to him, in a way.

He said nothing, not wanting to get involved with Amante in any way, and also not sure that he could say anything, but insults. The questions were not directed at him, anyways. Elek sat down on chair near the bed, observing the situation between the two men and Alice. He could feel, even see power waves coming off them all. There was concern in this room, but over all, was dislike and... jealousy. He saw how Amante "posed" and realized he had never seen his friend like that. It was strange, and Elek came to a thought that Amante could really like Alice in romantic way. But the feelings from him were different. Possessive and jealous, yes, but not with that certain passion lovers normally held for their partners. Elek tried to break the tension in the room with small talk, but the attempt failed miserably. So, he told Amante that he would like to speak with him later, before left the room quietly.

Finally, Alice went slightly more limp in Ryan's arms, and the man realized she had fallen asleep. He gave another glare to Amante, the grip slightly tightening. Ryan did not find him guilty of any crime, he had not started the whole dislike thing, and it was despicable that this man hated him without knowing him, only for that he was close to Alice. Hell, if he wasn't, she wouldn't be here. If only he was healthy, he would show this piece of scum what he was made of. To show off like this to man in a wheelchair! Ryan grit his teeth, left hand's fingers forming a fist.

"You should put a muzzle on your pride and jealousy, and realize that if it wasn't for me, you would've never seen her again," Ryan's voice was quiet, so not to wake Alice, but it had steel edge. "I got her out of that place, I risked my life for her, although I had no duty to her, unlike you, whatever you are to her. And so, you have no rights to act as the manly, possessive hero now." Without saying anything else, Ryan turned the wheelchair around and left the room, taking Alice to hers. He stayed there, until the girl woke up. Ryan then put her in the bed, and left, without saying anything.

December 5th, Chicago. Sewer #17.

He felt victorious and basically ignored Elek while reveling in said victory. It wasn't until the leader left and Alice drifted off that he began to deflate under Ryans scrutiny. Alright, Amante hadn't saved her but how could he? He didn't know where she was or, or how to get her back. Ryan just got lucky for getting that job. And who the hell did he think HE was gallivanting himself all over her like that?

As Ryan left the room, Amante growled deep and low before hovering over his food and finishing it off. He still felt a bit sore but by the gods he would make a comeback by tomorrow.


Alice woke up an hour or two after they left the room and looked up to see Ryan. She smiled and lay her head back into his neck but soon found herself lifted and moved onto the bed. She tried to reached out to him but he seemed so distant and cold, hardly looking at her. She watched him leave without saying a word to her and lay her hands in her lap, wondering if she had done something wrong.

December 5th, Chicago. Base.

Elek's head was full with thoughts, about Amante, his attacker, and what was going between him, Ryan and Alice. It was something he wanted to read, or ask directly, but it would be far too incorrect in countless ways. So, he just paced around the house, sometimes stopping to do few things, but mostly walked. It did not help to think, Elek knew that, but it worked out the excessive energy. Not in enough amount, though. Finally, the man went out, behind the building and began working on the punching bag.

December 6th, Chicago. Base.

The doctor was surprised to find Ryan really ready for his first serious physical therapy. The man had expressed wish for that last night, but the doctor hadn't taken it seriously, because it was quite soon after the operation and recovery from nearly death bed. But, he found it better to not oppose Ryan, who nearly shined in determination. He looked fine and nearly cheerful, although he had spent most of the night, walking around the room and trying to work with his left arm. The medicine, food and good sleep had done good job and it felt very good to be walking again. Indeed, he had been too lenient with the doctors and nurses, who told him to stay in the wheelchair for a while more.

Ryan was taken to another room for the physical therapy. The nurse was very sweet and nice, and although he didn't need encouraging, it was pleasant. The pain had moved down to his wrist and hand now, signalizing that the bone changing was nearing its completion. The shoulder was stiff and did not want to obey his thought often, fingers didn't bend well enough, but it was all just a passing problem. Though of punching Amante certainly gave him strength and determination.

After few hours of workout, he washed, changed in fresh clothes and stopped by Alice's room. Much to his displeasure, Amante was there. So, he just bid them greeting and left. Not too long after, he was chatting it up casually with the nurse from physical therapy. She had dark eyes, that sparkled with good humor, and for a change, the woman laughed at his jokes. He was not jealous, or so Ryan tried to tell him self, so, why not spend time with other people? He was not item Alice owned, that he was tied to her bedside. Nor the other way around, as she clearly showed.

Ryan didn't want to own Alice, though. He just wanted to belong somewhere. Alice had given him that feeling for a while, but she had her own life, which was natural. He could not stay by her side like a watchdog forever. He had to find a place of his own within this base, make new goals and plans. Maybe Alice soon would not have time for him at all, soon.

December 5th, Chicago. Base.

Amante waited until later that night before he changed clothes and. Dumping his old boxers into a waste bin, he walked out of the little room and headed up the hall. Before he went on to Elek's room, he stopped by the window to see Alice. She was asleep and he watched her sleeping. She looked... peaceful.

the hair on the back of his neck stood on end when he felt something. "How long has it been? Six months?" He turned around and looked at a shadow on the wall. Two little slits became apparent and opened into red eyes. Amante frowned at it and spoke in a hushed voice, "why now?" He watched the figure take shape but it kept to the shadows. "Is it because of Alice?"

It spoke to him with a cold, heartless voice that was recognizably female. "Perhaps, or I wanted to check on you." He rolled his eyes. "Yeah, never the straight answer with you." He huffed and looked at the girl through the glass. "Great, I haven't even had more than a few days with her and here you are, ready to sound the alarm and whisk her away." He features drooped as reality set in, again.

The figure made no notion to being affected by his spiteful sarcasm. "I never said that was my intention." "Oh, but it is, because that's what you do." He was frustrated, obviously, and was still finding a way to control himself. "You know as well as he that I cannot act purely on the will of others." He looked over at her, or it, "So... you're not taking her?"

The figure simply stared back at him as it answered, "No." He felt at ease, shoulders laying low, "How much time do I have left with her?" His tone lacked hope, feeling he knew the answer. "I can't determine the answer to your question. Not now."] Amante sighed, eyes shutting. He lifted a hand to rub at his face and asked, "Is there any way I can-" He looked over, seeing the figure was gone. Slowly, he frown and cursed quetly.

Grumpily, Amante hurried out to Elek's place to see what he wanted. He went in through the building and found his door, knocking on it a few times with his knuckles before poking his head in, "Elek?"

December 6th, Chicago. Base.

Alice woke up the next morning with Amante sitting in Ryan's normal spot. He had a few books in his hands and he was looking over them, grumbling and frustrated beyond reason as he read through the pages.

She was happy to see him up and about but felt concerned that Ryan was not here. Was it possible he had asked Amante to take his place for the day? Something told her that was a preposterous thought and she dismissed it, easing herself up against the pillows so she was not laying down.

This caught his attention and he looked at her, cracked a grin, and waved the book around in his hand. "I've been told you like to be read to," He cleared his throat and fidgeted with the book itself, "I, uh, picked a few out..." Alice smiled her thanks and made herself more comfortable as she waited for him to begin.

He caught the signal and cleared his throat before starting, ""M-Moggle." Eye-uh wisp-erd. "Ar yu awake?"" He swallowed, nervous, licked his lips and continued, "Sum-thing mov'd down.. in the darkness. A pile of dorm uniforms rust-led, rustled." His cheeks were starting to burn as he became more frustrated, running a hand through his hair.

The scent of Ryan riled him up a bit, purging the red tones from his face and he waited for Ryan to come closer. He reread the portion with Ryan at the door, " "Moggle." Aya whispered. "Are you awake?"" He was taking his time between sentences, glancing at her to make sure she was still aware. "Something moved down the darkness. A pile of..." Oh thank god; the bastard walked off. Amante inhaled a breath and rubbed a hand over his face.

Alice understood what was happening. He couldn't read. He was trying to hard to please her with something so simple and he couldn't do it properly- it tore at him. But he still tried. She lay a hand on his to ease him and nodded at him, urging him to continue. So, he did. "A pile of dorm uniforms rustled, as if a small animal was- were, stirring under... underneath."

This continued for a good fifteen minutes. He had gone through a few pages, looking exhausted, and she pat his hand to him know he should take a break. It was enough for now and Ryan had just walked by. She wanted to see him- she wanted to know how his therapy had gone. Amante nodded, feeling a bit embarrassed and even a little rejected, but he did as she pleased. As he stood up, she reached out and he blinked, following the line of her hand to the book. He handed it to her and she stored it into the dresser beside her bed. When he looked into her eyes something told him to come back that night.

He wasn't sure why but he nodded, as if telling her he would and headed out of her room and up the hall. He had glanced at Ryan with a small glare but said nothing and went up the opposite direction.

December 5th, Chicago. Base.

Elek stopped in mid punch when two presences entered his energy field. One he recognized as Amante, but the other... He quickly grabbed a towel and headed into the building. There was just his friend, looking much better, which was certainly a big relief. But that energy lingering on him, it had deceived Elek to think there was someone else here. "Oh, hey. Sorry about the look, I didn't know when you would come."

Elek opened the door and let Amante in. "Take a seat, please." He sat down on bed and hang head down for a moment, before looking back at Amante. "Is Leila here?" "It's just feels as if some of her presence is on you. But never mind me, I guess. She isn't here. Right?" Elek looked at the other man, frowning slightly.

"I actually... I saw that you argued with her, before creature attacked. Did something happen? Maybe she attacked or fought you? It was hard to tell." Elek hoped Amante did not think he kept doubting him. He was still debating if to tell he knew who was the attacker or not. "Are you feeling fine now?"

December 6th, Chicago. Base.

Despite his previous thoughts, the moment Amante left the room, Ryan quickly excused him self with smile, and walked into Alice's room, shutting the doors behind quietly. Nearly subconsciously, he sat down in the chair Amante hadn't used. "Hey," the man said in a low voice. Ryan smiled a small smile, but it was somewhat sad, and then disappeared. He felt different now, from the Ryan that had talked with Alice nonstop from the first time she had seen him.

"The therapy went well. Doctor said I progress very quickly. But that it may take me few months to feel the arm as my own." Ryan linked his fingers together, looking down to his hands, trying to make the thumb lay down with other digits, not stand stiffly up.

December 5th, Chicago. Base.

He took a seat and sat up as Elek barraded him with questions. When they finally stopped, he answered, "No, she's not here. we had a... disagreement. I wouldn't say it was as far an as argument." Until she decided to poison him but, even then, he was too hung over and depressed to really care. "Yeah," He scratched at his chest through the half buttoned shirt and leaned back in his seat, "I'm fine... is that all you wanted to talk about?"

December 6th, Chicago. Base.

She eased back into the pillows when he entered, smiling at him the whole time. His sadness was not easy to hide from her but she did not point it out. Instead, she silently celebrated his little victory and reached out to touch at his hand. She hadn't told him yet that she would be starting the therapy soon as well- that the doctors and nurses were going to try to get her to walk. But it wasn't that she did not want to tell him- it was that she did not know how and, well, she'd just found out this morning anyway.

Trying, she pointed at his arm and then to her legs. She continued trying to convey where she meant by outlining the nurses cap onto of her head and then signaled one hand as herself and the other as a nurse and then had the nurse had help her hand, as herself, walk with some trouble.

December 5th, Chicago. Base.

"I... guess." Elek said, with small sight. He felt as if he was pestering Amante. When the man stood up and was about to leave, Elek suddenly spontaneously said: "hey, I hope you won't be more hurt when this all is finished." He had meant the trouble with Ryan and Alice, which certainly was bringing Amante down, but somehow, all the other factors spinning around them and pulling them into a hurricane summed together, and his voice was heavy. "Uhm, never mind. I am sure you won't. Stay safe. We've panicked about you for few year's worth," Elek smiled, trying to now look cheerful and a little cheeky.

When Amante left, Elek returned to his paperwork, feeling more mentally than physically exhausted. Some things did not fall in place, did not make a picture with sense, and in the current situation, even small piece had a big meaning. Finally, for first time in long time, he waved his duties off and just went to sleep, to stop thinking even if for some time.

December 6th, Chicago. Base.

Ryan tilted head to the side, as he watched Alice trying to tell him something. It took him a moment, but then it all became clear to him. "Oh!" He smiled. "You are going to have physical therapy for walking? That's great! When you are back on your feet, you can have many nice walks..." Ryan stopped, as if he nearly said something wrong, but whatever it is, he decided to smooth over it.

"That's really great, Alice. I am happy for you," he told her honestly. Ryan took one of her hands and squeezed it softly. It was a gesture he had gotten used to by now, as simple and natural as smiling at her, usually making him feel at ease. But this time Ryan tensed a little, and after a moment, gently put her hand down on the cover. They both were going to live on their own lives, weren't they? Especially after Alice could walk. It felt like these gestures tied them together even further, and, honestly, Ryan felt a bit afraid, and unsure, where this all would be end up with. Not to mention, there was the third path, running along theirs, always trying to entwine, or maybe rejoin Alice's. He had to take Amante into consideration.

"I... I have to go now. I will ask when your therapy starts. I will be cheering for you, even if I can't be there." Ryan stood up, but he didn't leave immediately. Suddenly, he leaned down slightly and cupped Alice's cheek softly. "What I am going to do with you and all this mess..." Ryan said quietly looking into her pale eyes for a long moment, and then abruptly turned around and went out. Doors shut behind him with a quiet thud.


Elek waited for the training to finish, sometimes stopping by the scene. He needed to talk with Eve, but as he had slept in, he had missed chance to catch her before training. Finally, the woman dismissed the 'class' and he fell in her pace, now walking next to her. "I need to talk with you about Evan. Do you have time now, or later?" For past few days, he wore dark glasses - not exactly sunglasses, but with toned lenses, so the blank stare or shut eyes would not be so noticeable. It felt somehow uncomfortable, but the reason was absurd, so he tried to overcome it.

December 5th, Chicago. Base.

He'd stood up when it sounded like Elek was done and paused when he continued. Amante nodded and shuffled out of the room and made his way back to the little room in the hospital...

December 6th, Chicago. Base.

Excited that he understood it, she lay both hands with his, holding it. She couldn't wait to start her therapy so they could do it together and, maybe one day, she could walk beside him instead of having him push her around everywhere. He was permanently etched into her life plan but, as he tensed and grew weary... did he not feel the same way?

He couldn't be there? Why not? It looked like he was going to leave- no! But then he came down, so close, and touched at her face. Staring up into his eyes as he stared back it was... strange. He moved off of her, leaving her with a chilled feeling. Realizing he was leaving the room, she reached out to him but... he was gone.

Her body weighed down on the pillows and the bed as this strange feeling came over her. Why did she feel like she just lost her best friend? Why did it feel like he just.. left her here, forever?



She heard the name of the creature and glanced over at him, quirking a brow more at his ensemble than his words, "Sure..." Eve knew something was off but led him back to her house. normally, she wouldn't let anyone inside but it was fairly clean and she didn't want to waste the energy being nitpicky. Once they were both in the door, she shut it and locked it up. "Before you start asking me stupid questions, what's with the glasses? First of all, you're blind. Secondly, there's hardly any fucking sun down here. Third? you're fucking blind."

December 6th, Chicago. Base.

Elek's jaw tensed slightly. "In this case, it's your question that is stupid." He took of the glasses and hung them in jacket's pocket, his eyes unusually bright and standing out in the dim room. "But fine, I will tell you." His mouth corner twitched, as if he was trying to decide between smirk or displeased expression. "When I walk on Surface, people keep staring at me, due to my eyes. It's uncomfortable for me to hold them closed, so I am trying to get used to glasses." He wasn't going to give her further details about that his eyes still served a partial role in his ability to see with mind's eye. He had appreciated Eve never mentioned his disability, but this had been quite over the line and her previous attitude didn't make up for it.

"Also, I have no stupid 'questions' for you, just some facts." His face turned towards her, eyes boring into Eve's face, as if he could not only see her with them, but also deeper, in her and trough her. His powers did not reach out to her mind, though, it was just a feeling, but very hard to shake off.
"Evan left Base to go as far as one of our second level outposts. There, she attacked one of the guards. He would have died, if not his uncanny healing abilities and someone who chased Evan away." Elek paused, but only for short moment.
"I need her to stay in Base. We have enough problems already, and you can't control her when she is not near you. I don't want Evan locked up or anything like that, just confined within the base. Try to get her understand she can't leave. And that's all for now."

December 7th, Chicago. Base.

Ryan slept very unwell. Strong pain, despite painkillers, plagued his left arm, while his dreams were haunted by nightmares he did not want to recall even in slightest when he woke up. Before he went to the therapy, he visited Alice, who had nurse feeding her at that moment. The woman smiled kindly at him.
"Ah, Ryan, it's nice to see you again."
Ryan smiled at the nurse and paid her a little compliment, trying to remember all he knew about being polite and social. The nurse flushed slightly.
"It's so sweet you're always visiting Miss Alice. I wish I had someone like that," the woman sighed softly, with slightly dreamy eyes.
Ryan's face grew colder and he laughed, a little nervously. "That's what friends do, don't they..."
The nurse gave him a strange look at the word "friend" and unintentionally, Ryan translated it as "how can you be friends if you don't even know her" - quite the opposite of what she had meant. So, feeling like stabbed in side, he hurriedly excused him self, muttering about therapy and fled the room.
"He is so strange sometimes, but it gives him a mysterious aura, don't you think so, Miss Alice? Certainly, he has to be one of the most handsomest and sweetest men I have ever met," the woman spoke to Alice as she brushed her hair.

The arm hurt more than usually today, and doctor said it was normal, after the therapy. Despite that, the man grit his teeth and worked extra hours in physical therapy, until the doctor had to nearly drag him away, telling that too much won't help, but rather do the opposite.

Ryan was a man who went for everything or nothing, always putting all of power and effort in something. His indecisive, insecure feelings about Alice and his place here made him work even harder and after the therapy, he could only sleep in bed and moan quietly for a while. That day, he stopped by Alice's room few times, but only briefly and for few words.

December 6th, Chicago. Base.

Her eyebrow kept quirked and she was nothing short of displeased with his tone. Crossing her arms against her chest, she mulled it over. the surface? Why would any care what he looked like? Why would he need to have any kind of eye contact other than to make people uncomfortable. Whatever, this was obviously not her concern.

"She'll do what she wants. She doesn't attack things at random. There are reasons for what she does." Though, it wasn't often that Evan really "thought" about anything. She wasn't the type to weigh options until something was no longer in her favor. "But I'll put her on a tighter lease." She plopped down onto an old chair and relaxed, sighing to herself. when he started to leave, she commented, "Lose the shades. They look horrible on you."

December 7th, Chicago. Base.

She perked up when he came in, licking some yoghurt off of her lips and grabbing at a napkin. Her movements were still slow as she raised it and dabbed at her mouth. By the time she was done, he seemed to already be gone. Her hand lay back down on the stand holding up her tray of food and she lay back on the pillows. The nurse would have no trouble getting at her long, pure white hair.

The nurses words were... strange. They were reassuring but she could feel a part of her chest tightening. He didn't really seem very interested in being around her. Normally, he fell asleep in the room or read to her all day. It couldn't be the physical therapy. He didn't work on it all day and he didn't seem to be in much pain- quite the contrary, it seemed more like he wanted the pain. Something was wrong but she didn't know what.

When Ryan visited her more times that day, more often than not she was asleep. He may have perceived it as her being relieved to not struggle to stay awake around him all of the time or, perhaps, that him being away was all around relaxing. But that was not the truth. It had only been one day since the seeming rejection and already she was struggling, though it was considered normal by the medical physicians.

December 6th, Chicago. Base.

Reason, eh? Elek frowned slightly, and decided to think about it more later. "I doubt there was a reason. I don't want any more accidents like these. I won't spread it that it's Evan, and the attacked people don't recognize her, but if this continues, she will be found out.
"And then it will be hard for people bear with her." The last sentence sounded a little ominous, but it was the truth. As much as most of Rebellion trusted and respected him, if the fact monster who killed their own people were held in Rebellion's heart, unrest would highly increase, and then Elek would not be able to promise complete safety for Eve and Evan.

At her comment, Elek lowered head slightly and shook it, with small grin, laughing inwardly. "Thanks for warning, how could I ever think of choosing part of my future disguise that doesn't suit me? Care to help me find a better one, if I don't want to be on every newspaper and wall in few months, like this?" He moved head upwards and raised eyebrows, gesturing to him self, from head to toe. Elek had always tried to accept things with good humor and light heart, that his mother had taught him well. He knew he was beginning to forget how, but this was good opportunity to not huff and puff, even if Eve will certainly brush him off and try to make a fool out of him.

December 8th, Chicago. Base.

Pain had gotten worse, but he had given larger dose of painkillers. Doctor threatened to stop the therapy if he would not get some sense and as that was the last thing Ryan wanted, he promised to be more careful. He really wanted to talk with Alice about it, but even if he was not trying to distance him self from the girl, there was little chance he would have told her that. The thought of making her worry or upset was soothing, but Ryan knew he would hate to see her sad, especially because of him.

"I would be such a street rat indeed, if I made her sad," Ryan thought to him self, getting ready for the therapy. His hand was more flexible now, but it hurt to move it. The man was still not allowed to use his shoulder, but now his arm was up to elbow and it was true relief. The skin was finally breathing and that alone made him feel more alive.

Ryan went to the therapy room, had a small chat with the nurse, whom was now openly flirting with her, even in corridors. He played along, but just a little. This woman did not really interest him, but it was slightly flattering that someone didn't think of him as shipwreck, even if she saw him in bad state. "Then again, do I know what love even feels like? Maybe it unnoticeable like this - just some pleasant feeling?" Ryan wondered quietly. He had been in love once, infatuated with a beautiful, witty, even kind girl. But he had been 16 then, newest member of the gang, while she was the gang leader's girlfriend. In a childish thought that love could overcome everything, he had tried to get her attention, which caused him to lose few teeth, but gain some scars and broken bones.

When doctor came, he worked slowly on the exercises, trying to not rush or show his pain. The slow pace annoyed him and Ryan really wanted to punch someone.

December 6th, Chicago. Base.

She didn't like what he said, at all, but she didn't want to waste anything arguing with him. She would take town his entire rebellion if they even thought of- her head started to hurt. "Just get out." She turned away from him and rubbed at her forehead as the energy ebbed sharply against her skull. Calm... calm.... She took in a few deep breaths once he was gone and exhaled them. A small shockwave snapped out of her and bounded off of the walls, recycling back into her system...

December 8th, Chicago. Base.

Amante went into her room while Ryan went to therapy. He'd told the nurses to find something else to do and shut the door. When she woke up, he helped her eat and asked her how she was doing... with no response. Nervous by this, he reached into her little dresser and pulled out the book he had been reading from. He started out slow, watching her to see if she was even interested.

And she was, though she drifted in and out of a sleep like state. He continued on, finishing the chapter and even went on past that. He was getting better, practicing with her even though she wasn't completely aware. This was concerning him as he hadn't seen her this... off since Ryan first arrived with her- and that was after a conflict with Elek. Frustrated, and with the day ending, he cleaned up her room and put the book away, tucked her in and paused when he felt her arm.

Firm fingers wiggled under it and lifted it, just holding it. She was so light but, despite how thin she was, she did not look anorexic or like she should weigh... nothing. Amante put her arm back down and pushed the hair from her face before stepping out of her room and shutting the door so she could rest alone.

December 9th, Chicago. Base.

Amante had walked around the hospital looking for Alices doctor and, when he finally did, he dragged the bastard into a private room. With the door shut, he told the doctor to give her at least another day of rest before starting the therapy. She would be too tired and the strain could end up hurting her. Whether the doctor agreed or not, he made sure they complied and left them, alone, in the closet to come out whenever they pleased.

Meanwhile, Alice was fast asleep that morning. She looked a bit more comfortable as no one had bothered waking her up and, well, Amante did fluff her pillows.

December 6th, Chicago. Base.

Elek didn't even wince when Eve spoke with him so sharply. He was about to leave, but before opening door, the man paused. "I will make sure no harm comes to Evan or you. But I can't do it completely alone. So, try to hold her here more." Elek shut the doors quietly behind him and slowly walked towards his house. Apparently, the threats of possible future had hurt a sensitive spot. He thought back to Evan's burns, and thought of putting both facts together, but then mentally shrugged. Elek did not assume, without facts, and he had no reason to guess the truth.

December 9th, Chicago. Base.

"Ryan, pleeease," the nurse said pleading - she had stopped him right before he entered Alice's room, holding onto the shirt sleeve of his right arm. She smiled at Ryan in truly cute and charming manner, but somehow, it left the man unphased. Maybe because he had finished another theraphy session not long ago and felt weary - very weary, in fact. Ryan mulled the situatiom over for a moment. Aira said she had made a bet to watch whole horror movie marathon without turning off TV or screaming loudly, but she insisted she couldn't do without his company, claiming that otherwise she will be afraid of each dark corner afterwards. It sounded strange and Ryan guessed it was most likely invite to a quiet date of sorts, or just making out. The real bet was probably which nurse would get it on with him first. He didn't know if the standarts here were low or he really had become attractive in some mysterious way, but there was a number of women who seemed to be interested in him.

"Oh, Ryan, you need to let your self loose sometimes, too!" Aira flashed him another smile. "Fine," Ryan grumbled. The nurse grinned happily, tiptoed and kissed him on cheek - nearly corner of his mouth. "It will be great, I promise," she said and then rushed off, leaving the man slightly frozen. He resisted the urge to rub the kissed spot and maybe even make a grimace. Mentally, he was reasoning with him self, pointing out that it was normal to find a girl friend and settle down with her, if he was to stay here. Everyone did that. And he had no reason to say no, didn't he? Automatically, Ryan's head turned to the window, looking at Alice. He hoped she had not seen any of this scene, and heavily sighing, walked in.

December 9th, Chicago. Base.

Alice was fast asleep, breathing quietly as she slept. Her back was angled so part of it shunned the doorway and the rest of her front side stared at the wall Ryan was facing when he came in. The door opening did not bother her or cause her to stir.

However, on the outside of the room, up the hallway, Amante stood with a tray of food, grumbling to himself. He could smell the mixture of two scents, one being Ryans and one being from one of those... girls. Why was he unhappy with this? This is what he wanted, that jerk off to get away from his... his... Alice. But it didn't feel right. He felt cheated, for Alice, he felt cheated.

Shuddering off the sensation, he started down the hallway toward Alice's room with her breakfast.

December 9th, Chicago. Base.

Ryan sat down at her bedside and although he wanted to take her hand, he decided against it, especially because he did not want to wake her. He watched her sleep, and thought back how they had met, then all that had happened up until now. Heavily sighing, Ryan looked away from her. "I'm sorry," he murmured. He really felt sorry for it all - that Alice had been in the facility, that someone like him had found her, and most of all - that he wasn't able to change and find a stable position. He always put all his energy in what he did, if it was interesting. Ryan simply didn't know how to divide it in parts, or maybe didn't want to - it always could be the last time. Yet, with things like relationships, he went with the flow. It was a need that pushed him into them, without feelings. Sometimes physical need, but most often - need to be accepted and chase the loneliness away.

Alice had given Ryan that feeling, in larger amount than he could comprehend. Yet, she seemed so nice and sweet with everyone, it was hard to believe it was directed to him as a person, as a friend. And she already had someone. Amante would be able to protect her better. Ryan had pestered Alice's doctor about therapy and found out that Amante had had it postponed. It had made him feel hollow, to think that now Amante noticed when she felt good, and when bad. But there was no one else he could blame - just him self. Trying to give her space and life, he had done exactly that.

Ryan's train of thought was hit off the track when Amante entered the room. Without a word, the man stood up and moved towards the doors. He did not want to have an argue, not while Alice was sleeping. Amante probably doubted his truthfulness, but last thing Ryan wanted was to see her unwell. His shoulders were slumped, gaze stiffly set ahead. Still, he was thinking how lovely it would be to punch Amante's smug face just once. He certainly did deserve it. Ryan's mouth twitched, as he carefully closed the doors behind him. Yes, that image pleased him immensely.

December 9th, Chicago. Base.

Amante said nothing as Ryan left, holding in a growl so it could not be heard, and relaxed a bit when the door shut. He shifted around the bed, shoving Ryans chair into the corner and pulling his own over closer. Setting the tray down on her little dresser, he took a seat and watched her, waited. She didn't wake for some time and he decided to read to her as if she could hear him in her slumbers...

This was how they spent their day, slumbering and reading aloud. He was getting pretty far into the book now and, though she was not awake for it, he felt she would appreciate and praise him for his work.

December 9th, Chicago. Base.

Over the course of the day, Ryan stopped by Alice's room few more times. He seemed not to care much for Amante's presence, but since the girl was asleep every time, Ryan only lingered for a moment at her bedside, and then left without a word.

Around eight in the evening, Ryan knocked on doors of a small building. Aira opened and brightly smiling, let him in. He half automatically gave her a small compliment, but was quite silent most of the chattering, before the movie marathon started. At first, they sat at different ends of the couch, but over the course of the first movie, Aira got closer to him. She was not cuddling up against him or anything, though.

As he had predicted, the movies were not really so scary, as gory. Ryan watched them without much interest, but they kept his mind occupied, and that was better than nothing. Few times, Aira hid her face in his shoulder, but instead of hugging the woman, Ryan just tensed. Between third and fourth movie, she went to kitchen and returned with few drinks. He took one and thanked her, but avoided eye contact. Ryan knew what he had come for, but, somehow, he just couldn't put the act up. Alice's face came in his mind whenever he got more side tracked from the TV screen.

"Ey, Ryan, look at me." Startled out of his thoughts, the man turned to her, Aira's face very close to his and she kissed him. It was a soft, not persistent kiss, and Ryan was frozen for a moment, but then the woman pulled back. "Sorry about that, I didn't know you liked her so much."
"What?" Ryan stared at her, blankly.
"There are rumors you and Alice are an item. But no one really knows, that's why I asked you out." Aira shrugged a little, moving back from him. "I could tell now you were thinking about someone else all this time. Your heart wasn't really here for sure. I bet it was with Alice."
Ryan felt dumbfounded. Love? He hadn't thought he loved Alice, but Aira was right that he had been thinking about Alice(and wishing she was here instead).
"I..." Ryan cleared throat, feeling extremely awkward. "I better get going." The man stood up, nearly tripping over the low table.
"You aren't bad woman after all, Aira, I am sure you will find someone," he told her at the doors.
"After all?" she quirked an eyebrow, but Ryan had already left the house. With a small sigh, she shut the door behind him and turned the lock. "She sure is one lucky girl."


Ryan tried to fall asleep, but thoughts used his mind like a speedway and after about a hour of a struggle, the man got up. He washed face, changed clothes, as if trying to leave all marks of the awkward encounter behind him. But it had no effect on his thoughts. Confused and angry, Ryan left the hospital, to wander around the base some.

December 10th, Chicago. Base. 3am

Eve was sitting outside her house, for once, drinking a beverage of some sort. It looked like juice but it could have bee anything. Her eyes were more concerned with the walls, ceilings and sides of buildings as opposed to something... real. Taking another drink, she looked over and saw Ryan.

Realizing she had not seen him since he'd been sucked into his surgery, she motioned over to him with his drink. "Have you decided what to do yet?" She was talking about his arm and how it would affect his future.