The Silver Arrow was cruising above the city of San Diego. The sun beginning to set into the ocean. David, Virgil, and Kevin were working on the map, searching for a good spot to land. Where they could hide the Silver Arrow from the public. Gabe woke up from his nap, stomach-turning in pain. “I can’t take this anymore!” He screamed, taking off his harness. “I need a burger right now.” He said angrily. David heard the yelling turning into the bay.

  “What are you screaming about?” David asked.

  “I need food. You need to hurry up and find a place to land or I am going to kill myself!” Gabriel exaggerated.

  “Relax, if you just woke up at a normal time to eat, we wouldn’t be having this problem,” David told him. Gabriel walked over to the ramp; it had been opened giving everyone fresh air.

  “I found a nice spot on the beach if we cloak it. We should be alright” Kevin said walking into the bay.

  “Nice.” David said, “Everyone prepares for landing.”

  “Dude, get away from the ramp,” Eve said, she was getting nervous with him standing so close to the edge. Gabe ignored her.

  “What’re you doing?” David asked him walking to the exit of the bay. Gabe turned his head.

  “There’s a Burger King right under us,” Gabe said, he turned his head back around. The heavy winds made it impossible for David to hear.

  “What?” David asked him. It was pointless, Gabriel was determined. Nothing mattered to him at the moment. Not the Watchers, not the Brotherhood, especially not the Order. All Gabe cared for was food in his stomach. He required a burger in his stomach. Not even David could stop him. In Gabriel’s head, if this was his final moment. He was going to do it with a hamburger in his stomach and a crown on his head. “Gabe get back inside.” He said with his hand on top of his head and the other on a handle. Fighting to keep his balance.

  “I am going to be a king.” Gabriel’s mind has fallen into hunger. Closing his eyes, saying a silent prayer.

  “Gabe if you don’t- “Allison was cut off from her screams. Gabriel took his leap of faith, jumping from the ramp into the city below. As if he was diving from a diving board into a pool. Allison and Carlos rushed next to David. All searching for Gabe’s figure. “I really hate him,” Allison muttered.

  “Pretty sure that’s far from the opposite,” David said calmly. David soon realized his brother was alright, he must have dropped down on the skyscraper they passed by.

  “You know?” Allison asked him, turning her head slowly to him. Her hair blew heavily in the wind.

  “I’m not an idiot.” David turned to her, “Like you guys suck at hiding it.” David chuckled. “I’ve just been quiet, waiting to see if he’s brave enough to tell me. Don’t tell him I know, just enjoy your guys’ day. Don’t waste it on being stubborn and petty.” David headed inside the bay, taking his seat next to Eve.

  “Did you tell him?” Allison asked Eve closing the ramp. It was immediately easier to hear one another.

  Eve looked up at her, “No, I promised to keep it a secret.”

  “When did you find out?” Allison asked David.

  “I have always known. You guys spend way too much time together.” David said strapping himself in. “You should sit down Allison, it’s about time we land.” He pounded on the wall; Virgil was sitting on the other side. He acknowledged turning on the red light in the bay. Allison sat back down in her seat. Buckling herself in. Virgil began the landing at the empty beach, activating the cloak. Turning almost invisible, reflecting light from one side of the ship to the other side.

  “So, we’re invisible right now?” Eve asked David.

  “Not really, it’s science stuff,” David answered her. “I don’t quite understand it enough, I just accept it.”

  “And if it doesn’t work?” Eve asked.

  “We get shot down and all die.” David laughed, pulling out his phone. They were now low enough for him to get messages. Nothing. That was always the best sign. No news was good news. The Silver Arrow touched down on the beach, between two rock formations. It had appeared no one typically went there for their beach trips, especially in December.

  Eve and the others unbuckled their harnesses, getting up from their seats. Eve stepped out. “So, what’re we doing?” Eve asked.

  David looked down at her, opening his compartment labeled with an etching of an eagle. Pulling out a backpack, “We should find Gabe first before he gets in trouble.” David said. Pulling the hilt off his belt and puts it in his bag. Offering his hand out, “Give me your hilt.” He told Eve. She pouted pulling off her training hilt, placing it in his hand. “Remember, no jumping out windows, no powers, nothing.” He said placing the hilt in his bag.

  “What if?” Eve asked.

  “Only if it is self-defense. If you see an acolyte, do not engage unless you have to. If you see someone about to get hit by a car, you save them like a normal human being.”

  “Don’t expose the Order?” Eve asked.

  “There are people out there who suspect our existence. Let’s keep them looking like conspiracy theorists.” David said, “Lord knows how normal humans would react to our existence. It’ll be like the Inquisition all over again.”

  David slung his bag over his shoulder, walking outside the bay. Taking a deep breath of the salty air. The waves running along the sand. David stopped in his tracks. Closing his eyes, becoming one with the environment. Eve stepped next to him, everyone walked past the two of them. Carlos charged into the waters, splashing around. Not caring that he was wet, grabbing a strand of seaweed.

  “You’re acting like an idiot,” Jasmine called out to him. Carlos began chasing her with it, threatening to hit her with it. “Get away from me!” She cried, deciding to join on with his fun. Eve watched; they were all such children. She smiled.

  “David, you go find Gabe.” Kevin said, “We all have our trackers on, let everyone have fun.”

  “I can go with you,” Allison said, turned overlooking David and Eve.

  “Yeah, I can come too,” Eve said.

  “That’s alright guys.” David said, “I got him, you guys can go shopping.” He nodded.

  “That’s pretty sexist for you to assume,” Allison said, walking up with David. He just looked at her, blinking slowly. “You’re not wrong.” She looked guilty.

  “I need to talk to him.” David smiled. “Blood over water. I’ll catch up with you guys.” He started walking away. Allison understood, maybe they can finally talk about their relationship. She was sure David approved, but even then, she didn’t care about what David thought.

  Eve stayed behind watching David leave around the cliff. Disappearing from her view. “You hate to see him leave, but so damned good to watch him leave,” Chris said eating a candy bar.

  “What?” Eve looked at him confused. “Are you implying that I like David?”

  “Yup,” Chris said.

  “David is untouchable. Not allowed to love.” Eve smiled. “I just think he’s a good friend. Something you don’t know how to be.” She jokingly insulted him.

  “Him being untouchable must make you want him, more right?” He laughed.

  “Maybe you want him.” Eve joked.

  “Oh, definitely,” Chris said smiling at her. He walked away. Eve realized Gabe was asking for food, Chris told him he hadn’t. He was either stingy with his candy bar, or just loved seeing to what limits Gabe was willing to go.

  “Evelyn, we are having a girl’s only time until David gets done hunting Gabriel down,” Allison said walking up to her with Jasmine at her side.

  “Don’t call me that.” Eve said, “What’re we going to go do?”

  “I’m hungry, so let’s grab a quick bite,” Jasmine said, rubbing her stomach.

  “And then we can go shopping and get a makeover. I can see your roots. So, either commit to the blonde or the blue. You pick.” Allison grabbed her hand forcing her to walk.

  “What’re you going to do Virgil?” Richard asked. “Because I was thinking arcades, or we can hit up Bryan.” Kevin walked up to them.

  “Let’s go hit up Bryan.” Kevin smiled.

  Virgil looked around; everyone had felt it in their gut. Knowing there was something big coming. Virgil was going to use this time to do something he’s always wanted to do. “You guys go ahead. I’m going to do my own thing today.” He wanted to do something one last time before he kicked the bucket in his eyes.

  “Suit yourself.” Richard said, “What about you Ethan?”

  “Bryan for sure,” Ethan said walking up to them, his pants wet up to his knees. “Carlos, Chris?”

  “We’re just going to mess around town,” Chris said.

  “Do not go acolyte hunting,” Kevin said.

  “Realistically, we take orders from knights. David isn’t a knight.” Carlos snarked. Kevin looked at him annoyed. “I’m joking.”

  “Just don’t get into trouble,” Kevin said. “Stephen?”

  “I’m going to go with Carlos, and Chris I have nothing better to do,” Stephen replied. “I’ll keep them out of trouble.”

  “Sounds good to me.” Richard said, “Let’s go.”

  King Gabriel

  David walked through the city, looking at all the faces. A bunch of people did not know who he was or that he was fighting for each and every one of them. But they would never know who he is or why. He wished he could tell them, tell them all how many people he had known that died for their freedom and for them to be protected. He just smiled instead, paying them with kindness and remaining polite. James had always told him to smile, you never know who is having the worst of times, but a simple stare and smile can mean the world to someone. David constantly thought of his wisdom. Never thought of having kids before, but he knew if he had, he would be sure to pass on that wisdom.

  David walked into the doors of the Burger King, immediately turning his head to the right. Gabriel was sitting, a mouth full of fries and a golden paper crown. He looked over at the door, seeing David. He widened his mouth with a dumbfounded smile. David couldn’t help but smile. Wanting to appear upset, Gabriel knew David would be far from it.

  Pulling out the seat from across Gabriel at a small table, taking a seat and scooting it forward. “Did your fall hurt?’

  “A few scraps but nothing special.” Gabriel smiled. Reaching inside of the bag he pulled out a burger wrapped neatly. “Hungry?” David was sitting relaxed. He pulls his hand out of his hoodie pocket, reaching out grabbing the burger. “No pickles,” Gabriel said still stuffing his mouth with French fries.

  David unwrapped it, taking a swift bite. Gabriel knew his brother was hungry, he would never admit it. Things you pick up being with someone your entire life. David chewed softly, looking at Gabriel smile at him. Bringing his eyes down to the small burger. “So, you and Allison.”

  “So, you’re a templar.” Gabriel countered. David looked back up at Gabe, he sat smugly. “I read Kevin’s mind.”

  “I didn’t get a chance to tell you.” David said, “I had just found out.”

  “And you just found out about Allison and me, so it seems fair.”

  “No.” David set the burger down, only having taken a single bite. No longer hungry. “I’ve known about you guys for a while now.”

  “Liar.” Gabriel told him, “Don’t try to revert this on me.”

  “As I recall it, I had climbed on top of the tree,” David said, hands back in his hoodie pocket. “How old were you? Twelve?” Gabriel’s eyes widened. “Tyler had just passed away.”

  “Stop,” Gabriel told him, knowing exactly what he was talking about.

  “You placed both your hands on the life tree.”

  “What did I just say?” Gabe said his face painted annoyed.

  “Sorry, your highness.” David teased him. Looking at his crown. “That fits you.”

  “Ah yes, King Gabriel.” He began to chuckle. “King of French fries and my trusted knight, Sir David.” He began to laugh.

  “What a horrible knight, can’t even kill the King’s enemies.” David joined with his little brother’s laughter. Both sighed, neither of them could remember the last time they had laughed like that with each other. Let alone in general.

  “Well, you can start with helping me kill these fries,” Gabe said still eating the tray full.

  “Deal.” David joined him on the mission. At that moment, it felt like all the chaos had been at ease. They could enjoy the simpler things in life. They sat for some time in silence.

  “Do you love her?” Gabe asked.

  David coughed on his food, caught off guard of the question. “What?”

  “Eve.”

  “Well, I love all of you.”

  “No, not that kind.” Gabe said, “Like, love love.”

  “Why are you asking these questions?”

  “Considering you’re dodging the question. I’m guessing yes.”

  “If I do or I don’t. It doesn’t matter, it’s natural to have these feelings. I’m not allowed to act on them.” David told him, paying attention to his food.

  “You ever wonder if that’s what’s needed to activate your ability?”

  David looked up at his brother, annoyed. Gabe knew his oath sometimes bothered him. Gabriel just looked at his brother, giving up to convince him otherwise. If anything were to happen for David to break his oath, it would have to happen on his own accord. Based on his words, David had already established feelings, all it was now is to wait for him to act on them.

  “I’ve been thinking about the council,” Gabe mumbled under his breath.

  “We’re not leaving.” David said, “We couldn’t afford to keep the Sanctuary running without them.”

  “Can’t we just eliminate the Brotherhood?”

  “Ah yes, the one wearing a burger king crown wants to go into open combat with the forces of evil,” David smirked. “Give it time, and the opportunity will arise. They haven’t bothered anyone since we have seen them last.”

  “I guess you’re right.” Gabe said, “I just don’t want to sit around waiting.”

  “Let’s focus on having a good day,” David said.

  “So, you’re not upset about Allison and me?” Gabe asked confused.

  “I’m not upset, but I need to ask you.” David’s voice got sterner. Remembering Liam and Kaitlyn. Liam seemed so strong but held hints of chaotic and sporadic acts of violence and anger. Just like his brother. “Are you prepared to lose Allison at any given moment?”

  Gabriel remained quiet, he looked at his hand. He thought of it. “I don’t know.”

  “You’re not. You want to know how I know?” David asked, Gabe, looked up at his brother. “I am nowhere near prepared to lose anyone else in my life. Especially you.” David said. “Regardless of what happens, or whatever you go through in the future. I am always going to be there. I will not fail you the way I failed Liam.” Gabe watched his brother’s eyes well up, then fade.

  “You know I feel the same for you,” Gabriel said, a pit in his throat. “You can live a happy life too you know,” Gabe replied. David just chuckled under his breath. Both laughed, not understanding why, but they did. And Gabe was happy with it. “We should get back to the others.”

  “They are all doing their own thing. I know you want to spend your day with your little girlfriend.” David joked, taking a jab at him.

  “And you want to do the same with yours.” Gabe countered.

  “Shut up Gabe,” David said getting out of his seat. Taking off Gabe’s crown, tossing it on the top of the floor.

  1000 RPMs of Virgil

  Virgil had changed, not entirely. He took off a thick jacket, replacing it with a dark leather jacket. Walking inside the Willow Springs Raceway, looking to get his hands on the fastest car to rent for a couple hours. The team would be alright if he took the Silver Arrow away for a few hours. Plus, he was only a thirty-minute flight from San Diego if he threw the engines into overdrive.

  Swinging open the door, a man was sitting with his feet kicked up on the front desk. “Hey brother, we got some guys already on the strip.” He said. Virgil just looked at them.

  “What’s one more driver?” Virgil asked.

  “They rented the whole day.” He said.

  “Oh yeah, I’m with them.” Virgil lied, using his abilities to dominate his mind and persuade him.

  “Oh of course.” He said, “Do you have a car or are you looking to rent?”

  “We have a Dodge Viper.”

  “Nah.” Virgil thought about it.

  “Porsche 911?” The man continued listing off cars. None of them interesting Virgil’s mind as he swiped away at the tablet. Reading the list. Eventually, he stopped listening to the man. Until his eyes came onto the car he wanted, without a doubt in his mind.

  “What about the McLaren P1 GTR?” Virgil asked.

  “Of course.” He typed away at the computer. “We can have the car on the track in twenty minutes. In the meantime, you can grab something to eat or join your friends.”

  “Yeah, thanks,” Virgil said. Food was the last thing on his mind at the moment. Only driving. Was he going to use his abilities to take advantage of a group of guys having a day on the strip just so he can get what he wanted? Of course. Who wouldn’t? It’s not like they could be a group of guardians or acolytes for him to be worried about.

  Virgil walked over to the back room, where an array of lounge sofas were set up with tables. Clean and sleek. Trophy cases lined the walls. The back wall hosted a large mural of windows. He could see the track, a couple of curves and straightaways pieced together into a beautiful track. The hills as a backdrop were a perfect backdrop to the track. The sun was beginning to take set in the sky.

  His eyes were drawn to the single Dodge Challenger speeding down the track, its engine roaring. Not loud enough to impress Virgil, however. Virgil went to the door opening it to the cool breeze of the open track. Putting down his sunglasses on his green eyes. Stepping out of the building and walking down the trail that led to an area of cars sitting side by side. Four guys stood around, laughing, and taking turns at a pizza box and a couple of beers.

  The story has been taken without consent; if you see it on Amazon, report the incident.

  One stood up who could see Virgil approaching the group. Wearing a lowcut tank-top, aviators, and a reversed hat. A textbook douche bag, Virgil thought to himself. Shouldn’t be hard to manipulate these guys. “Hey brother, we got the whole day to us.”

  “Can’t accept room for one more?” Virgil asked. “I just want an hour.”

  “Nah man, get lost.” He said.

  “I just give me an hour and I’ll be gone.” Virgil began to use his manipulation ability. The rest of the group stood up. The Dodge Challenger pulled in with the group, all staring at Virgil. He could feel something was off. The energy of the group mustered into something darker. The hatred radiated off of the individuals, like the sun. Virgil sighed. “So, the rumors are true.” Virgil took a few steps back. Hoping he could talk himself out of it. “LA county has become Brotherhood territory, so much for our intelligence corps.”

  “You’re going to die here, watcher.” The short one said in the corner.

  “Oh cool, you know who I am.” Virgil said, “So, that means you know who we are. And how dangerous we are. I’m not here to fight, I just want to drive and leave.”

  “You’re negotiating because you’re scared. You know we’ll kill you.”

  “Yeah, that may be true.” Virgil looked around, “You guys are all close friends. Evil people typically don’t just get out to have a day to themselves.”

  “What does that have to do with anything?” The one in the middle said. “Come on Connor, let’s kill him.”

  “Hold on Connor.” Virgil said, “Considering that you guys aren’t even branded yet and are still using names in front of a member of the Order. Means you guys just joined. And you knew who I was just by seeing me.”

  “There’s a rule you guys follow. Do not fight more than two at a time, at most three.”

  “Yes, that’s for normal acolytes. I can get away with killing three of you before you kill me. At least.” Virgil said, hand on his hip, ready to draw his falchion. “No one has to die here. I have never seen you, and you have never seen me. I do an hour of driving. Everyone keeps their hands.”

  Connor smiled at him beginning to chuckle. Everyone looking at Virgil. Smiling at him. Virgil would have at least liked to do one lap on the track before he was to die. “Fine,” Connor said.

  “Man seriously?” The small one asked annoyed.

  “He’s just here to race. Plus, if we kill him, who knows who he’ll take with him.” Connor continued, “Remember what they told us what happened to those who killed that one watcher. They get their vengeance.”

  Virgil sighed in relief; he knew he would die one day. He was only glad it wasn’t today. “How about a friendly competition?” Connor asked, the McLaren just pulled up to the track. The employee got out, throwing the keys to Virgil.

  “You know my entire purpose of life is being behind a throttle or wheel?”

  “That’s why I want to race you,” Connor said. “Bragging rights.” Virgil just smiled at him, accepting his offer before walking over to his car. Connor turned around and did the same, walking over to the crimson Ferrari FXX K.

  Virgil opened the long sleek vertical door of the car. It’s gunmetal gray and orange details of the exotic car. The spectra flare tint complements the vibrant color of the car. Inhaling a deep breath, his blood rushing. He was looking upon the car’s curvature. The sun perfectly reflected the craftsmanship of the car’s exterior. Virgil slid his body inside the car, looking around. Absolutely beautiful. He thought to himself, the car was perfect in every way. Gripping onto the car’s steering wheel, looking almost like a video game controller. The analogs and buttons are in the center of the wheel. He rubbed his hands against the black leather. Carefully put the keys into the ignition, twisting the key until the engine started. A sharp whistle of the turbo fired, bringing the vehicle into a warm hum.

  Virgil broke his cool demeanor, giggling like a little kid. Throwing on the harness. He turned off the radio before it had the chance to play anything. “Who puts radios in a car like this?” Virgil wondered why anyone would want to listen to anything other than the engine. He pushed his foot against the gas, the other on the clutch. Rolling the car across the asphalt onto the track.

  Connor had been waiting for him at the track’s starting line. Virgil pulled up on the left. Both rolled down their windows to talk. “Want to bet?” Connor asked.

  “What do you have in mind?” Virgil asked.

  “I win, I get the location of your hideout.” Connor smiled, hoping to get favor with the masters of the Brotherhood. “And if you win, I give you the location of our hideout in LA.”

  “If I win, you and your buddies leave the Brotherhood.” Virgil offered. Connor was confused about the bet, why would this stranger care if they were with the Brotherhood or not. “For your safety,” Virgil said, also he didn’t care for a bet, considering David already knew where their hideout was in LA.

  “This is why the Order is going to lose, you care too much about people.” Connor snarked.

  “We going to talk, or are we going to race?” Virgil asked smiling, rolling his window up. Connor prepared himself, something was off about Virgil. Something in Connor’s gut filled him with doubt. Virgil’s persona of not caring made him uneasy. Not cocky, nor humble.

  Virgil waited for the signal, one eye on the kid standing on the side of the starting line. Raising his katana, Virgil readjusted his grip, twisting his palms firmly on the sleek leather of the steering wheel. Revving the engine, the turbo in the engine began spinning up. The warm humming turned to loud. Holding the brake until. Watching the straightaway in front of himself. The katana lowered swiftly; Virgil placed the gas to the floor of the car. Both cars launched onto the track.

  Kevin Ethan Richard and the 2nd Amendment

  Richard led the three down the street, coming to a large building. “They had to move once Liam was compromised.”

  “Can’t blame them, Liam was the number two. His entire job was to remember everything David didn’t.” Kevin said.

  “Now that’s your job.” Ethan joked; Kevin shook his head smiling. “I’m joking, you rarely work.”

  “Tell me about it. Also helps that we’re not as busy as we used to be.” Kevin continued down the alleyway. Graffiti murals and art-filled the walls. Some were beautiful works of art; others were just covered in random gang signs. It was a shame, Kevin thought to himself. Things in life can be so beautiful, but others have to go and ruin it for everyone else.

  The group came to a door, a sign overhead reading ‘Phillip’s Guns and Surplus.’ “This has to be it,” Ethan said looking at his phone with the grid location compared with his watch.

  “Even if it’s not, if we don’t recognize the dude then we just leave it’s not that hard,” Kevin said.

  “I don’t want to be awkward.”

  Richard looked at him, “Stop being a weakling.” Richard grabbed the handle of the door, opened it casually, walking inside first. Kevin and Ethan followed behind him, Richard instantly locked eyes with Bryan. Putting out his hands as if meeting a long-lost friend. “Bryan!”

  “Hey man keep it down.” He said, “It’s Phillip now. Your boy went all loco on everyone, so I’ve been laying low.” Phillip spoke in a heavy Spanish accent.

  “A big sign out front is laying low to you?” Kevin said, “You sell guns, it’s not like it’s easy to just move an entire arsenal at a moment’s notice in California.”

  “I get special privileges working with you people,” Phillip told them. “Now what can I get you, fine gentlemen.”

  “Considering in recent developments, firepower.” Kevin said, “We need a couple sidearms, I know David needs a new one and we have a new girl.”

  “Ah, new girl? And you don’t want to bless me with beauty?” Phillip laughed.

  “I wouldn’t say so much, the alternative thing isn’t all my style,” Kevin admitted.

  “Neither is it mine if I admit. What kind of sidearm style does she like?” He asked.

  “She seems to take a liking to sword combat mostly. I think a simple Glock 19 would suffice.” Richard said following him. Phillip handed him the Glock 19. “I like it. She has small hands.”

  “And David still comfortable with the Sig P320 compact?” Phillip asked, pulling out a tray full of them.

  “He’ll never let that thing go,” Kevin said browsing. “Until he was forced to.”

  “We never want to let them go,” Phillip said, taking out the sister to David’s old firearm. “I’ve been holding on to this for some time now. Waiting for David to want another.” He chuckled.

  “We’ll take it,” Kevin told him. Placing both the new handguns in a large case.

  “I don’t imagine that you guys only came for two guns,” Phillip smirked from cheek to cheek.

  “Oh hell no.” Ethan smiled. “Take us downstairs.”

  Phillip walked over pressing a button under the desk. A metal fence lowered over the windows and the front door. He raised the counter gate, waving them all to follow him to the back room. “Hit the lights on the way out,” Phillip told him, Ethan in the back did exactly that. Opening a door, a staircase leads to a dark basement. Lights turned on with every step down the stairs. “What kind of firepower are you boys trying to buy?”

  “David stresses nothing that causes explosions or fire,” Kevin told him.

  “Always honor with that boy.” Phillip said, “sometimes you need an unfair advantage.”

  “Sometimes,” Kevin repeated back to him. Once they reached the basement, Phillip turned on the lights, revealing a wall of crates and boxes. Meticulously organized. The room was divided into thirds, one-third filled with boxes. Another was walls of all types of firearms and weapon systems illegal to own. The last third was a single range. Where Phillip would give demonstrations to make a sell.

  “Holy shit,” Ethan said, Richard smiled looking like a kid in a candy store.

  “So where do we start?” Kevin said, his hands on his hips looking around. The choices were endless, and Kevin’s dream of turning the Sanctuary into an impenetrable fortress was now a possibility.

  Girl Time

  The mall during the holidays could be compared to hell. Everyone and their mother seemed to be there. Taking advantage of the sales or trying to get the perfect gift for their families or significant others. Or the selfish getting things for themselves. Eve thought. Eve followed Allison and Jasmine into the clothing store. Eve looked around, surrounded by dresses and other clothing, way too godly for her taste. She had always been the type of person who was satisfied with the simplicities of clothing. Jeans, a t-shirt, and maybe a hoodie is all that mattered to her. “See anything you like?” Allison asked walking up to a brown dress, grabbing it and admiring its texture.

  “If I’m honest, no.” Eve chuckled.

  “Come on, I’ve seen your closet. We need more variety to work with.” Allison said, “Money isn’t a question. Sure, David and Kevin get upset when they look at the bank statements.”

  “How does that even work anyway?” Eve asked.

  “The Order gives us money, and we pay for everything we need,” Jasmine said.

  “And whatever is left over, David tries to save for things we need. Or in this case, what us three need.” Allison smiled. Pulling a blue dress off the hanger and raising it to Eve’s body. “This matches your eyes.”

  “Yeah, and my hair. I try not to use too much blue.” Eve smiled. Swatting the dress away from herself. “I think we should save the money. Not spend it on a useless dress.” Allison looked offended; Jasmine laughed looking through clothes on a rack.

  “It’s not useless. You might need a dress one day.” Allison said, “And you’re going to wish you had one.” Allison hung the dress back up. “How about something black?”

  “How about, we get some Christmas presents for the boys?” Eve suggested, she walked over to the clothing racks. Her eyes were suddenly drawn to a white skater dress. She touched the cloth, running her fingers down the short loose skirt. Allison tapped Jasmine on the elbow, getting her attention to look at Eve.

  “What were you saying about not getting anything?” Jasmine asked grinning. Eve looked up at her smiling.

  “I just thought it was cute,” Eve said knowing they had caught her.

  “You just nothing,” Allison laughed walking up to the dress. “It’s simple, but as long as I win, and you get a dress.” She said, “What size are you?”

  “I typically get medium,” Eve said looking at the hangers.

  “Oh man, you’ve never worn a dress, have you?”

  “I haven’t worn a dress since I was like twelve,” Eve admitted.

  “You’re probably a size seven or a nine,” Allison said, flipping through some of the dresses and finding the right size. “Your bust is small so maybe even a six.” She grabbed three different dresses and threw them over her shoulder, grabbing Eve’s wrist and pulling her to the fitting rooms.

  “You don’t have to pull me everywhere!” Eve yelled out. Jasmine followed them to the fitting room, grabbing some random clothes on the way to try on. She didn’t really care what she wore, her style was always random. Just as long as there were colors and accessories.

  After some time passed, Eve finished changing in the dressing room, looking at herself. The dress barely sat above her knees. She felt genuinely cute for once, smiling and giggling to herself. “Don’t make us come in there, we want to see!” Allison pounded on the door.

  “Give me a second!” She yelled out, pulling out her phone, quickly taking pictures of herself. She did her best to keep her cool. Why had she waited for so long to wear a dress? Even if it was simple and nothing over the top. Nothing flashy to show off. “Allison.”

  “What?”

  “Where do you put your hilt when you wear a dress?” Eve asked whispering through the door.

  “I have a thigh holster for that kind of stuff but just throw some clothes on top of it for now,” Allison whispered back.

  “David has it, I was just wondering.” Eve opened the door, wearing just the dress and her high socks. Allison’s eyes widened; Jasmine walked over looking at her. “Oh my God.”

  “If David doesn’t want to date you, I will,” Jasmine muttered, taken back. Surprising how a different type of clothing can change everything in how a person looks.

  “You guys are just being nice.” Eve blushed, looking behind them at a group of guys starring from the doorways, assuming they were waiting for their girlfriends. They had been watching from afar. “That’s creepy.”

  “Their guys what do you think?” Allison said, turning around. “She has a boyfriend.” She snapped at them. They turned away embarrassed.

  “Yeah. And he’ll beat all of you.” Eve said the girls stared at her. “Too much?”

  “Get dressed and we’ll buy it.” Jasmine laughed shoving her back inside the fitting room.

  “One more time I swear I’m going to fight you guys,” Eve said annoyed at them constantly manhandling her. Eve had gotten changed and bought the dress. Although she didn’t agree with the price. Allison was not going to let her leave without getting the damned thing. Eve wanted to pay everyone back for how they accepted her, the only way she could think of was to buy presents for everyone. “I want to get everyone a present,” Eve said walking with her bag in her hand. Allison and Jasmine had some as well from their shopping haul.

  “That’s nice of you but trust me, a lot of the boys don’t have any desire for materialistic things,” Jasmine commented.

  “I just want to show you guys I am thankful,” Eve said.

  “Show us by not dying,” Jasmine said smiling from the corner of her cheek.

  “I’m still getting the stuff.” Eve pouted. She walked past a music store. “Think one of them would like something from there?” She asked.

  “I know David has some guitars and stuff, but I’ve never seen him play,” Allison admitted. “Gabe told me he plays, maybe stage fright?”

  “Well, let's go inside and see,” Eve suggested.

  “Don’t waste your time. If you didn’t make it, then David is just going to throw it on a shelf and never use it.” Allison told her. “Here.” Allison walked over to a vending machine, throwing a quarter inside one of the slots. A small bubble rolled out; Allison grabbed it. She walked up to Eve, placing it in her hand firmly.

  “What’s this?” Eve asked, popping it open. Revealing a mini string doll.

  “David’s sentimental. Have something small that he can carry with him, he’ll hold onto it.” Allison said.

  “Are you sure he’s going to like this?” Eve wondered. She didn’t want to make David think she was ungrateful.

  “You’re overthinking it.” Allison said, “Just give it to him. And watch.”

  “Allison’s right.” Jasmine said, “Now let’s go do something about your nails and hair.”

  “What’s wrong with my nails?” Eve asked putting the small figure in her pocket. Looking at her hands. Her fingernails, unpainted with dirt lodged in the corners. Realizing she hadn’t taken care of herself, instead of being focused on her training. “Never mind.” She said.

  Sake

  Out on the street, Carlos walked ahead of Stephen and Chris. “There are crosswalks for a reason,” Stephen said. Trying to follow Carlos without being run over by a car. “Is this restaurant worth getting ran over for?” Evidently so, as Carlos still charged through traffic to the other side of the street.

  “We’re close,” Carlos said as they followed. Chris was unaffected by the suicidal acts. The group continued down the sidewalk, soon coming in front of a small Japanese restaurant. Red letters and a small Order symbol etched into one of the bricks near the door.

  “All this for some Japanese?” Stephen asked.

  “Woah Woah Woah, this isn’t just Japanese,” Carlos said offended walking to the door. “This is a place we always used to eat. You’re one of us now, so you have to be initiated properly.”

  “This sounds like hazing,” Stephen said looking at Chris, who just looked back at him. Smiling wide. “Wait why doesn’t Eve have to do it?” He asked.

  “She hasn’t passed her first trial yet.” Chris said, “Get inside before I throw you inside.” He said smugly. Stephen followed against his own will. He could attempt to outrun them, but he felt that this day would come inevitably. It was better to deal with it now, and not when Gabe was there to bring him in by his neck.

  “Fine,” Stephen said following Carlos inside. Chris stayed close behind him, within arm’s length to ensure he wouldn’t attempt to escape. An older Japanese lady with a sunken face came to greet them. Feeling a strange and dark presence, Stephen turned his head slightly to discover what was making him feel so off. A large man wearing a hoodie turned, his face scarred. Almost appearing familiar to him. The large man-made eye contact with Stephen, scowling at the boy before leaving out the door.

  “Don’t be surprised, there are many members of the Order who eat here.” Chris said, “Don’t worry about it.”

  “He just seemed off, but very familiar at the same time,” Stephen said. “Strange.” He continued to follow Carlos who had started to the back room with the old lady. They removed their shoes quickly before entering.

  Once passing through the curtains, a red room with a fire in the center burned up the chimney. A square of cushions surrounded the center. Small tables sat in front of each individual cushion. A group of people was already eating food or talking quietly. Carlos looked around, bringing back good memories. Carlos took his seat, already ordering his food. Chris took his seat on the cushion. Stephen felt off, something in the room threw off his energy. Chris patted his hand on the cushion. Looking around, almost appearing paranoid.

  “Relax kid.” Chris said, “Everything is okay.” Stephen took a deep breath. Two individuals watched sitting next to the group. “It’s okay, he’s just never been somewhere like here before.” Chris smiled at the two men. Chris asked for his order as Stephen sat down. The lady left them swiftly.

  “Wait.” Stephen raised his hand, but the lady kept moving. “She forgot my order.” He muttered sadly.

  “I already ordered for you.” Carlos smiled.

  “I don’t like that at all.” Stephen didn’t like where this was going. The atmosphere was completely off. Something dreadful was in the room, and Carlos and Chris acted as if there was nothing to worry about. Nor did he like the idea he was about to be inducted into the group for no reason.

  Stephen took in another deep breath again trying to relax. The other two just watched the flames dance in the center of the room. Slowly changing colors. Stephen started to become captivated by it. Still unsure how to feel. The lady returned, with a tray full of food and drinks. Setting them down carefully on each table. Stephen watched as a bowl of ramen was placed on his table, a roll of sushi. And a bottle of Sake was placed. Stephen looked to his sides, noticing Chris and Carlos held up their empty cups. The lady poured their Sake for them. A sign of respect in Japanese tradition. She looked at Stephen. “Oh, no thanks. I’m not old enough.” Stephen told her.

  “Don’t be a rude man,” Carlos told him. “We can’t drink unless you do.”

  “You’re not old enough either.” Stephen fired back.

  “Don’t be disrespectful,” Chris said. Stephen fell to the pressure, lifting his cup up to be filled. The lady thanked him and poured a little bit into his cup. “That’s more like it,” Chris said.

  “Now drink,” Carlos told him watching him.

  “No, you drink first,” Stephen said.

  “It’s tradition, you drink first.” The lady told him.

  “I bet it is,” Stephen growled under his breath. He reluctantly lifted the cup, drinking the small amount inside quickly. As it went down, it burned his throat.

  “That a boy!” Chris yelled out as the rest of the room turned their heads cheering for him. Stephen slapped his chest, trying to fight the burning sensation.

  “Why is everyone cheering?” Stephen said. Carlos and Chris smiled wide setting down their cups. Both smiling with extreme excitement. Stephen’s eyes widened realizing that they hadn’t taken a drink. “Oh no.” He said softly.

  “Good luck kid.” One of the men called out from across the room as Carlos and Chris began eating. Stephen moved his eyes over to Chris and Carlos and back to the fire. The whisps slowly danced back and forth. Appearing as a figure of a woman hinted within the flames.

  Fiery hands reached out from the fire, patiently crawling like a beast across the wooden floor. “Guys, do you see this?” Stephen began to panic. Looking over to his sides, Chris and Carlos disappeared. Stephen was alone in the darkness. The flaming hands drew closer to him. Attempting to stand up his legs were pinned down with black vines. Tightening their grip. He did what he was taught, taking a deep breath through his nose. The hands were inches from his face. He could feel the heat radiating on the small hairs on his face. He opened his eyes slowly, shining blue around his iris’. The hands changed from their aggression, closing together as if they were holding hands. Stephen reached out to touch. The flames shifted to blue and white color. The embers softly danced through the darkness.

  The hands opened; palms extended out to Stephen. In the middle, a blue crystal. His fascination and curiosity caused him to reach out. Grasping the crystal in his palm, pulling it towards himself. The hands retreated slowly into the fire. Stephen opened his hand with the crystal sitting on his open palm. The crystal sunk inside of his skin. Stephen closed his hand trying to stop it from entering him.

  Chris and Carlos watched his pupils, expanded almost covering his entire eye. Both laughing, “What’s he doing?” Carlos watched him trying to snatch at the air. He continued to laugh, hardly feeling bad for him.

  Stephen felt the burning sensation return to his palm, quickly raising it. Opening his palm to what appeared to be a tiny snakehead rising from his hand. Stephen was unsure what this meant, then rising was what appeared to be a snake without its eyes. The vines around his legs released him as they went back into the ground. Stephen’s full attention was the small blue spirit dancing in his hand. Did this mean something more than just being a bad trip? He thought to himself. He closed his eyes.

  Opening them carefully. The spirit was gone, he was back in the room. Everyone still eating, looking around he looked at Carlos. Carlos just smiled awkwardly at the kid. Stephen smiled back. “How was it?” Carlos asked him.

  Stephen slowly dragged his fingers across his leather belt. “How was it?” Stephen repeated, “How was it? I’m going to kill you.” His tone drew heavy and determined. Carlos quickly drew his hilt, as Stephen launched from his seat, both interlocking blades. Stephen managed to push Carlos, who was on the defensive, against the wall. Neither of them activated their energy, both understanding that it was merely playing. “Don’t ever trick me into doing something like that again!’ he gritted his teeth. Chris continued to eat, not caring about the situation. Everyone else in the room stopped, watching the two.

  “What animal did you see?” Carlos asked him. Stephen looked at him confused.

  “A snake,” Stephen said.

  “No eyes, I assume.”

  “How did you know?”

  “Because mine is a Lion without a main.” He said, looking into Stephen’s eyes as they were still dilated. “I should remind you to be careful, the drug still could have an effect on you?” Carlos told him; Stephen turned his head. A small company of dumplings armed with chopsticks and knifes stood, preparing to attack Stephen. Breaking his lock with Carlos, Stephen watched as they launched into the air assaulting him. Stephen swung his sword with precision killing a few in a single swing.

  “We’re under attack!” Stephen screamed out.

  “We should tie him up,” Chris said. Carlos agreed, wrapping his arms around the small boy. Chris disarmed him of his weapons, afraid his flailing could hurt someone or even himself.