Written by Noir

It was a very normal day for me. A beautiful morning dawning a little more reddish as usual. My hands were shivering at the thought of going outside but I had no choice. The boat rocked quietly in the slightly moving water. I watched my reflection and sunk deep in thought. Then I smelt it. Fire? Everything happened as in slow motion. I reached my hand towards the creation. The boat slung almost noiselessly towards me and I just sat there, frozen. Then something snapped and I stood up. The boat almost turned over but I hanged on. Eyes wide I noticed a figure in it.
Oh my God.. My whisper disappeared into the wind. With one quick movement I lifted my bucket, poured the fish back and splashed the burning boat with water. No? Again I splashed a bucketful of water and repeated my action, I believe it was twice. Slowly the fire was put down. Dont know what I was doing, I only felt the stretching of my morningstiff muscles as I worked. The thought in my head was: Who is in there? I perhaps worked so hard to get my answer. It mustve been noon when I arrived back to my small cabin. My hair was messy and face covered in grease but it didnt matter. Blankets found their way miraculously into my arms and I returned to the boat I had managed to pull ashore with my small rowing boat. The day went slowly. I revealed a body under a greasy or oily sheet. The shock was unbarable as I noticed he was dead. Dead? I brought a dead body with me? No, it couldnt be. My endless curiosity took over and somehow I gathered stregth to pull him off the boat and towards my small house. Concidering my small size I really had trouble with this task. Finally I lumped down the wall and kept my eyes on the limp and motionless body in the middle of my livingroom.

Here I sit, still watching him. Just watching, and occasionally making sure with a mirror that he breaths. No other lifesigns. I see a nasty bruise in his head. I look away as I wonder how he must have got it. Then I jump as his hand moved slightly. A low sound erupts from his throat and I lean closer. No, just murmuring. I sigh and add some random wood to the fire. The night is darkening and I feel cold again. A fishermans life isnt a party. And now I had this pale and barely alive lump in my cabin. I felt depressed again. The fiddled with my sleeve and almost fell from my chair when I heard a know. Then another. Scared that I had been discovered, I slowly toddle towards the door, before realizing I can walk..
Who.. I swallow hard. There wasnt many notable times I had actually talked to a person this year.
Who is it? I finished the sentence. A female voice coughed and said something very quietly.
What?? I swinge the door open before even realizing. Infront of me stands a short girl, approximately 13, carrying a box. I ltake a look at her, as she looks at me. The ice is yet to be broken. Finally the girl speaks, very quietly.
I saw you at the sea. And the body. I.. I was wondering what it was all about? My horse was scared by thr flaming boat. She whispered. I glance inside and so does she. I see her eyes widen.
Who.. who is that? she is just as amazed as I am. Without asking, she steps inside and examines the face.
Oh dear.. I turn on my heels and walk beside her.
What is it? You know that boy? I ask, almost ethousiastically. She frowns and I see her lips press tightly together.
What? I get unpatient and stomp to my chair. She inhales and blurts out:
Thats Zoot. Im speechless. It cant be.
No.. I whisper, mostly to myself. I saved Zoot? The girl starts just as I when my guest growls again. She is at the door quicker than I thought could be possible. The fear is obvious in her eyes.
He cant hurt you, not now. Hes just hurt. She shakes her head fiercly.
He almost died. And he shouldve! After everything! You know that youre protecting and caring for a murderer?! she spits out the words coming from her heart. I stand still not knowing what to say as she turns to whipe the tear away. I find myself being philosofic.
No one is really bad inside. Like he. He mustve experienced something tragic. As soon as the words come from my mouth I notice how silly they sound. The girl swirls around, her eyes still in fire.
Havent we all? she snorts. I try to ignore her comment. I dont want to go there anymore.
So.. Whats your name? I change the subject. She looks at me shyly.
The names Melissa. I smile and extend my hand.
Jacob. She surprises me by grinning. Our introduction is brutally interrupted by another low sound from the eprson on the floor, Zoot.
Tru.. I rush to his side and listen carefully. Nothing. I stand up again, facing Melissa.
No. She seems disappointed too. Then my heart jumps to my throat as a hand grabs mine. His eyes are open and hes glaring me with his creepy white eyes. I freeze and am unable to do anything. He blinks and the glare is gone, instead he seems horrified.
My legs.. Zoot whispers his voice low and hard. I raise my eyebrows.
Cant move them.
Somehow, I manage to lift the growling man up and into the armchair nearby. My only armchair. Zoot looks blankly ahead, and glances at Melissa few times, which scares the poor girl.
Melissa. Come with me outside. I take her by the hand and lead her out.
He cant stay. Youll be in danger. I grin.
Not now. Not when hes paralysed. Melissa seems to get my point and smiled a little. She suddenly looks over my shoulder and her smile widens. I look too and see a small horse eating grass beside my little cabin.
Whos that? I ask bluntly. Melissa hugs the creature and grins.
This is Dingo. My horse. My savior. I nod and say nothing. I hear heavy swearing inside and peer in. Zoot is growling to himself and throws various objects from the table at the wall.
Hey! Stop that! I yell as I walk back in and manage to catch my only clock as it flies. He glares at me hatefully and spits on the floor.
Why? I roll my eyes and start moving the table away from his reach. I see a glint of laughter in his cold eyes as I hit my foot.
Funny, huh? If I were you, I wouldnt laugh. I dont HAVE to keep you here.. his expression doesnt change but somehow I think he gets the point. Melissa bursts in and for a while seems really cautious because of Zoot. As if she has something on her mind, something to do with him. I promise myself to find out, but not now.
You want something to eat? I ask Melissa, as she was my roommate or something, as if weve known for years. She nods and without a sound, slides to the little kitchen corner. I take a chain from under my shirt. It has a key on it. Just to make sure I dont starve. Melissa watches as I open to cupboard door, but I sense she glancing at Zoot every once in a while.
Here you go. Im sorry its cold. I dont have luxury here.. I feel embarrassed to hand her cold spaghetti in a can. But again she surprises me with her reaction.
Thanks. This is luxury to me.. I eye Zoot and find him looking at me. I throw a can to him too and roll my eyes.
No, I didnt forget you. God, arent we demanding.. Melissa lets out a giggle, but quickly hides it. She finishes the can before I even start and asks where to put it.
Erm.. Just throw it outside. I suggest and her expression changes again.
But thats stupid! You must use a bin.. Someone might get hurt even.. she fusses and goes to fix the matter. I am surprised yet again. Zoot sneers from the chair hes in and I get slightly annoyed.
You really anti-everything nice and human? I wonder if youre able to love or like.. I snap and he looks at me with a weird look. Almost if he was.. surprised? Nah, my imagination. Theres so little I actually know about the guy, but then again, I dont really wanna know. The way his eyes go right through me already scares the hell out of me. Melissa huffles back, looking pleased with herself.
So Jacob. Now I must get going.. Dingo is getting unpatient. I admit that I am a little disappointed. Alone with Zoot? No thanks..
But.. Wouldnt you like to stay maybe? I suggest, knowing shell reject. Why wouldnt she?
Ill come back silly.. Just going to the city. Cant leave you alone with that one.. she whispers the last words and I laugh a little. Zoot looks sad for a moment and I fight the urge to ask why.
Trudy.. I hear him whisper something.
Sorry? I ask, incase it was aimed at me. But Zoot just eyes me warningly. I give up and go to Melissa.
Could you bring me some supplies? Umm.. Like a wheelchair? Melissa is obviously stunned by my idea, but shrugs.
If I manage to carry it somehow.. Dont count on it though. She smiles and waves as she gets on the small white horse.

A week later, Im sitting on my miniature porch and was almost starting to forget all about Melissa. Then there she was. Smiling happily. And her hair much shorter than I remembered.
Yeah, I cut it.. she says when I ask. She takes Dingo to its little shelter on the back, and then stunnes me by rolling a wheelchair with her as she returns. I stand in awe as Melissa spins in the chair and laughs proudly.
Wow.. I dont know how to thank you. I stutter and fiddle a ***** of hair. She merely rolls her eyes and takes it inside. I follow, just in time to see a grunt expression on Zoots face.
I wont be needing it. he hisses and attempts on moving his feet like normal. Nothing happens. I see the depression change to sadness and then hysteria in his eyes, which are back to normal again. The white contacts lay, thank God, on the kitchen table from now on.
Yes you will.. I say quietly. He accepts the fact and looks elsewhere, obviously feeling embarrassed. I would too, if I was nurtured day and night by some strangers.
Melissa, will you help me? I ask, but get a blunt answer.
Oh no. Uh-uh. She shakes her head violently and backs away. I am surprised to see this, but somehow I have learned that when it comes to being near him, she refuses to do it. Whatever the task might be. I shrug and manage, through difficulties to get Zoot comfortably into the chair. He frowns but doesnt say anything. I am not the only one who has learned something. He knows he cannot argue, so he chooses to stay quiet. Which I prefer.
Get me something to eat, will ya.. Melissa? Zoot suddenly says, unlike to his usual nature. He says her name so meaningfully I really cant stand it anymore.
Ill get you something. Melissa. Come. I drag her to the kitchen and find her glancing fearfully towards Zoot every once in a while. I try real hard not to make a big deal of it, but after all this time, the matter bugs me. I drop the can opener and turn to her.
Ok. Stop that. Melissas hair bounces on her shoulders as she turns her head quickly.
What? Stop what?
The eyeing and all.. Will you please tell me whats going on?! I raise my voice, which I notice frightens her.
I.. Im sorry. Its just, your fear.. or something.. towards him. Its made me wonder. Melissa nods.
Why I fear? My turn to nod. She sighs and fiddles with her necklace.
Well, it was way back. The virus had just started spreading quicker and quicker. And then all of a sudden BOOM! she almost shouts and attracts Zoots intrest. I can see him listening, while pretending to look out of the window.
There were the Locos, the Demon Dogs, everything. Melissa stops the burst and eyes Zoot, who is just sitting and looking by the window. But I can tell hes listening very carefully. Melissa lowers her voice, and I notice some trembling as she speaks.
Me and my sister were out playing one day, then they came..
Who did? Melissa rolls her eyes.
The Locos, stupid! she almost spits out, like hiding the fear inside by keeping the anger outside. I nod and she keeps going.
We.. We were just playing.. They came out of nowhere, and.. took her. Just took her. She swallows, tears building up. I am lost. I lay a comforting hand on her shoulder, but she just shrugs it off and storms out.
Dont!! I am left confused and sad. So thats what Zoot is about. I eye him, and find him spinning slowly in a small circle in the middle of the room.
Heres your food. Enjoy. I hand him the can and eye the amused looking man not too kindly. He just smiles back and I am more annoyed than before, if its possible. I have trouble reacting to the people who are sort of living with me. The other is afraid because of the other, and the feared one keeps causing tension between everyone else. Melissa and me that is. Tension should be the right word. Another word is future. I have no idea what itll be like. I used to, but it cant be just that anymore. I grab my backbag quietly and am about to leave. The sea always calmes my nerves.
Where you going? snaps a stern voice from the livingroom. I sigh and turn back. Zoot is looking at me questioningly.
Do you care? I sigh again, little tired. He seems to think about my question and then turns away again. I take it he doesnt. The soft and salty breeze gently hits me in the face as I get closer to my little rowing boat. The sea throws me an invitation and I take it. Just me alone.

A month passed uncomfortably. I found myself more and more often on my boat, just sitting. Zoot had approved a little, he had started smiling all of a sudden last week and I was surprised, he didnt do it often.

What is it? I asked cautiosly. Zoot glanced at me and kept smiling which got me even more cautious.
Oh nothing. He suddenly turned away and the smile faded. I kept trying to find out, but he just stayed quiet. Melissa walked in and smiled to me. She somehow noticed that things werent ok, and placed her hand on my shoulder.
What is it? she asked softly and I sighed, nodding towards Zoot. Melissas smile dropped and she stared Zoot with me.
He wont talk. Im worried hell go into that shell again. I, the eternal optimist and good-doer, couldnt accept that he wouldnt become good again. Melissa padded my shoulder comfortingly. She could do that now, she had grown a lot, amazingly much since she arrived on my door. Suddenly I heard her sigh deeply and walk calmly towards the grunt figure sitting in his wheel chair. I watched the episode in amaze.
Is something wrong? she asked, her voice trembling a little. I saw the fear grow in her eyes as Zoot slowly turned his head and looked her straight in the eye.
Whats it to you? Or are you telling me, you care? he sneered. Melissa was speechless, and I guessed she was fighting the urge to back off.
Starting to get over her, are you Melissa? he finished the strike, and Melissa ran away, pushing me aside. I watched as Zoot spinned his chair and faced me.
Shes weak. And she cant help it. he stated. I felt the rage grow inside.
And you are all strong and mighty? Powerful enough to give hard time to innocent people? I snapped. His eyes were burning and i knew the good Zoot was far away.
Innocence is long gone in this world! No one is innocent. People kill for survival and look after only number one! It is power and chaos that reigns, not innocence and goodness! he replied, his low voice echoing on the walls.
Yeah, the famous power and chaos. Well, you dont have it now, have you? Zoot stayed quiet and I knew he wasnt invincible. Some comments still hurt. I had just found one.
You have nothing. I whispered quietly, but loudly enough for him to hear it. As I observed his reactions, I was surprised. No flames or fire, but a strange glint in his eyes.
Nothing. I heard him repeat. Zoot spinned back facing the window again. I saw a faint reflection on the glass and his sad face. Much sadder than I had used to see.
Youll get better. And youll get out of here. I comforted the man and didnt even know why. He just snorted and replied coldly:
Yeah. Sure. Ill be gone in no time. And what if I could move my legs more than just toes, no one would actually beg me back now would they? I stayed quiet, there wasnt really anything I could say.
But, can you move your toes? I realised what he had said. A glint of happiness passed in his eyes. I felt easier when I knew he was recovering. Although the fear of him paying back all that I had said was growing. I tried my best to bury it deep, and eventually forget.

That night I was restless. Everything was circling in my head like Zoot in his wheelchair. Melissa and her anonymous sister, Zoot and his possible good side, Zoot and his present evil side, and me.. My peace was gone. Then came the nightmares.. First in short snapping images of Zoot shouting, then longer periods of screaming.

Power and chaos!!!! Zoot screamed, his arms raised above his head. The Locos cheered and his eyes gleamed evilly, staring at me. I found myself tied and a knife held on my throat. I heard Zoot laugh and a slash. Blood was sprinkled everywhere. Suddenly a large mirror was placed infront of me.
Do you like your little cut there.. Very becoming. Zoot sneered and breathed on my neck. Horrified and tasting the blood on my mouth, I glanced at my reflection. Or it was supposed to see me, but I didnt. All I saw, was a blonde haired girl, covered in dust.
Help me.. I felt my lips move, but the voice wasnt mine. I watched the girl turn away, seeing her black, clipped wings hanging loosely on her back. Then a hard slap awoken me. It was Melissa. She was dressed in Zoots hat and jacket.
Very becoming. She held ****** scissors in her hands and waved them infront of me.

I snapped out of the nightmare, feeling a lump on my throat. I turned my head slowly, just checking that they were both still there. Zoot was sleeping quietly, but Melissa made more sound. She tossed and turned moaning in her sleep. She seemed restless too, a part of me was wondering if her nightmare was the same as mine. I shook her shoulder gently. Melissa jumped up and stared at me with big, hysterical eyes.
Jake? she asked, almost bursting into tears. I saw it in her eyes. Something had happened.
Were you having a nightmare? I asked fatherly and smiled encouragingly. She nodded slightly and looked down.
She was in it. She was in it again. She whispered. I had to ask.
In a mirror? I said quietly, half just stating. Melissa turned to look at me and opened her eyes, amazed, and obviously searching for words.
Yeah, I saw her too. Then, I simply held her in my arms, comforting her and trying to ease the confusion in my mind.

The morning was damp and cool. I wrapped my long coat around me tighter and tighter until I could barely move in it. I threw the buckets into the boat roughly and pushed it into the water. I suddenly heard footsteps behind me. Melissa, I thought sarcastically. Who else? I turned around smiling slightly and faced him. The bucket fell from my hand I backed away few steps. He came closer. Closer all the time. I blinked helplessly.. And as if smoke the image of Zoot vanished in the air, swirling around before disappearing. I breathed heavily and watched as the small snowflakes flowed down from the sky. I closed my eyes and leaned against my boat, my hand shaking slightly. I heard footsteps again. This time louder and walking faster. I was too doubtful to open my eyes so I kept quiet. Beside me, someone snorted and poked me in the shoulder. I faked sleepiness and smiled at Melissa.
You sleeping? Here?! she laughed cheerfully. I shrugged my shoulders and started working again. Melissa stayed in her spot and fingered her scarf.
Was there something? I asked softly, clearing my throat as I noticed no voice came out. Melissa apparently heard my squeking.
Take me with you. She blurted and looked at me with her large eyes.
But.. why on Earth would you want to come out ot the sea? Especially today! Its freezing! As if to prove my point, I shivered and started again wrapping my shabby coat around me.
I have my reasons Jake. Just please take me. Its dead important! she pleaded and the suspicion in me was growing.
Melissa.. You arent..? Oh no.. I shook my head and turned my back to her.
I need to! she shrieked and if I heard right was about to burst into tears. Oh Jesus.
Look.. I turned to her and put my hands on her shoulders. It is very uncertain shes even alive. I said harshly. I hated myself for it, but couldnt help it. She shook herself off and looked at me coldly.
Fine. Ill leave then. You know, I really thought there was a nice and decent person inside that shell. I was wrong.. she said and turned away. I couldnt do anything, I would I even try get her to stay? All I wanted was my peace and calmness back. Or was it? Lately nothing seemed to look the same anymore. I had found myself getting lonely when she was gone. Lonely? Me? The eternal loner, people-hater? Things were changing and I wasnt sure how to adapt to all of it. Melissa appeared from the shelter in the back with Dingo. She wiped a tear from her cheek, thinking I didnt notice. Or she was showing it off. I hardened my heart and turned away. Inside I was screaming. The last thing I wanted to do, was to let her just go angry and sad. I had to say atleast something as a goodbye. But the pair was too far. I turned and just barely saw them disappear behind the rocks. Frustrated, mainly at myself, I got on my boat and quietly rowed towards the open waters. The wind blew my hair messy and whistled playfully. I closed my eyes and listened to the heavenly sound as the boat rocked gently on the tiny waves carrying me towards the shore again. The hours passed easily. Late at night I rowed back sighing deeply as the bottom of the boat touched the sand. When walking inside I saw no lights. Guess Zoot wasnt a night person afterall. I smiled sarcastically when thinking him having a strict bedtime. The door opened silently and I walked in, not caring if I woke him or not. I didnt even look in the livingroom, just walked pass casually. But something didnt seem quite right with the picture. I walked a few steps back and stared. Empty? Questions twirled in my poor head as I peeked around every corner of my little hut. He was gone.

My steps echoed on the bare rocks as I ran. I didnt know why, but I had to. I was by the small boat shelter in a second and found only emptiness. This was starting to worry me, somehow. I didnt care about Zoot much, I was only slightly worried that he would decide to go back. Back to the Locos. I started to feel embarrassed by my worries of him leaving when he was suddenly there. I had rounded the hut once more and now saw him still firmly seated in his chair, watching the sea. I slowed down and cleared my throat.
Dont worry. Youre hard to miss. He stated but didnt turn. I sensed something weird in his tone but just assumed it was one of the mysteries of Zoot. The endless wrath of mysteries. I walked closer and detected something really strange in his eyes.
Have you been.. here long? I asked, last minute changing the question. The earlier version was have you been crying. But only a madman asks that from him. Zoot shook his head and seemed awfully calm.
Erm.. How exactly did you get here? I mean on your own. He snorted a bit and his pale lips curved into an evil smile.
Thats my business. He stated, still remaining his calmness.
Now, Id really appreciate some privacy, Im sure youve got some mourning to do. I didnt quite know what he meant, but it sure didnt sound too nice.
Why? Whats happened? I was puzzeled.
Well, she left. Probably went to our base. And you know.. I still looked puzzeled. The mind of a Loco wasnt my mainsubject at school. Zoot smiled even wider.
No one gets out of there alive or unchained. He said, mainly to himself, but aware that I heard. I started going mad at the thought of her dying. Perhaps it was guilt, but then again I hated Zoot also for starting the circle of death. Somehow, I managed to make it all his fault.
No! She will! She will be safe and happy! And its not like you know if the Locos exist anymore. After your supposed death they might of fallen apart. And THEN she will get there easy. Without a scratch! I found myself shouting at the man infont of me. Suddenly I just couldnt find suitable words to shout and I stopped. He stared me and I stared him.
I shouldnt have saved you, all you say and do is pure acid. I hissed and begun walking away. He continued his evil smile, but this time his eyes stayed hard and emotionless. Or maybe the only emotion was hate. He grabbed my wrist with an unbelievably strong grip. I stopped, half with surprise, half annoyance.
Wanna let go? I spat and turned to look, just in time to witness a nightmare. Without even an effort, Zoot rose from his chair, stretching himself to his total heigt. Which was quite a lot taller than me. I watched in horror. Couldnt move my legs to walk away or do something. Such irony.
So Im acid, huh? he sneered and stepped closer warningly. The grip on my wrist got tighter until I felt my hand no more. He raised my hand higher and when I glanced it, he twisted. Little enough that it wouldnt break, but enough to make me go insane with pain.
Power.. and chaos. He leaned closer and whispered his voice shaking with madness and anger. The last thing I saw were Zoots cold, white eyes.


A headache can be a strong enemy. I felt a sharp wave of pain run right across my poor head and couldnt help the moan. Just how I got it, I didnt know. Slowly, my blurred vision started to clear a bit and I looked around. Trees? I tried looking up, but the headache reminded me that I wasnt in control. So, I glanced blankly ahead and watched a crow settle down on a branch not too far from me. Automatically, I freezed and mustve looked like a hunter of some kind staring like that. The crow soon got bored and flew away. I shifted uncomfortably and slowly sat up properly. I noticed a small fire and.. a bag. A very familiar bag indeed. It reminded me of a face, but somehow I couldnt place a name for the face. Footsteps suddenly crashed from behind me and I froze again.
You up? Brilliant. A voice said. I looked up and saw her.
Melissa?! the name flowed from my lips before I noticed. She grinned at me and crouched to my level.
How are we feeling? You have a headache? she worried but smiled at the same time. I couldnt find the words.
Yeah. I know. It must be horrid. She stood up and walked to the fire. I followed the short girl with my eyes and wondered. Blinking images in my head just wouldnt make sense. I closed my eyes but they were just stronger.
Melissa? How did you know? I whispered, only a faint sound coming from my mouth. She glanced at me, surprised.
How? Well, it must have something to do with the fact that I caused it.. she snorted. I was even more confused and my face exposed it all. She laughed and then returned to me, worried expression on her face.
You dont remember? Darn, I shouldt have said anything.. I managed a small smile and she padded me on the shoulder.
Dont worry. Melissa the storyteller is here. She winked and sat down, while fixing the fire again.
You see, when I left, I was in a very vulnerable state. My mainthought was Lyndsey, just her. She began, and I interrupted immidiately.
Lynd.. Erm.. Your sister? I tried to put the pieces together in my head. Melissa nodded solemnly.
Well, anyway. I never got to the city anyhow. I interrupted yet again.
Why? She rolled her eyes and punched me in the shoulder playfully.
That is exactly what Im desperately trying to tell you, dummie.. she laughed and I felt my cheeks blushing slightly.
So, I never got there for the simple reason that Dingo got ill. Her laugh faided and I couldnt recognise even the smallest smile playing in her eyes anymore.
He.. He passed away. I guess it was age.. Her voice was trembling seriously now. I just sat quietly and hoped for her modswing to pass. But it didnt. Melissas sobs grew louder and soon she was crying. I just sat stupidly and tried to think of a way to console her out of the misery.
Some.. somehow.. I manage.. to lose.. everyone.. I.. love! she sobbed and all I managed to do, was wrap my arms around her. I guess the storytelling was going to have to wait for a little longer.
I tried to block it away, block the emptiness of walking the road alone. First I blocked the fact that Lyndsey was there no more, but Dingo was there. Now hes gone too and.. Melissa murmured between the tears. I encouraged her to continue with the story, my curiosity took over my stock of sympathy.
Ill be here for you Mel. Dont worry.. I smiled weakly but soon my expression faded away. It was too difficult to keep up I guess.
Youre one in a million Jake. She smiled too and I was relieved. Female tears were just too much..
Um.. Where was I..? Melissa soon setracted from my arm and wiped the little streams of tears from her cheeks.
This is a difficult story to tell, you know.. Too much involved. She murmured to herself. I saw her close ehr eyes, and I figured because she was gathering ideas and memories. I was almost started when she just started talking..
There was something I saw before.. Dingo passed away. Her sentence was followed by Melissas teary swallowing.
I saw you.. and that.. Zoot. Yes, he was carrying you down the road. Why was that? What happened there? she was obviously worried and I really didnt want to worry her by saying yeah, he had know he could walk for a while there, he couldve attacked any minute. So I chose the softer way.
He found his strength again. But obvipously held a grudge of some kind towards me.. You know, everything I said.. I slowly and carefully placed my words. Melissa looked gobsmacked.
But.. Why.. Why didnt he tell us? I couldnt help but smile at her naive mind.
Simply cause hes twisted, hun. I grinned and made her blush. Shes cute when she blushes.
Erm.. Yeah. Shouldve seen that. Anyway, he was carrying you and I got worried. You seemed awfully.. Dead. She said ackwardly.
Oh. Was all I could spill out. Dead? Well, I certainely would be if he had wanted me to die. The question why spare me kept troubling my mind. And gave me some lovely extra headache.
So I just had to follow..! Melissa stated dramatically waving her hands in the air.
And I presume you did then?
Yep. But this was the time when Dingo started having.. trouble. She looked down and obviously struggled to keep the tears away.
And I was left behind. Hes terribly fast you know, even when carrying a person.. her eyes widened in amazement. Or was it admiration? I quickly shook the idea from my head. Couldnt possibly. I snorted to myself, rather amused for unknown reasons. Melissa didnt notice but yet again gathered her strenght and continued. I dont know where she gets all that strenght. Its supernatural.
I was very down then. Concidering it wasnt that bad a depression but still.. I was about to slit. She looked at me with her sad eyes and I felt a lump in my throat. Without noticing, my hand was placed on her shoulder, encouraging to continue with the story.
I remembered you then. How kind you were and how much I actually cared for you. And I had to keep going.. For you Jacob. Oh dear.

Melissa smiled at me and something in her eyes made me very suspicious. Think, think, think.. I told myself and tried to get out of the uncomfortable situation. Did she just mean what I thought she meant?
Um.. Id.. Id really like to.. as I paused I noticed it wasnt the right thing to do. Now she expected me to do something! I just grinned and put on the casual mode.
..get on with the story. I mean, how did you get me here?! Melissa seemed little sad and I felt like hitting myself but it couldnt be avoided. She was 13! And I was feeling like a peadophile.
Well, I followed him to the city. And as I expected, he headed to the Locos base. Horton-Bailey. He was really fast and I really couldnt follow him as fast.. So for a time I lost him.. And of course by then he didnt have you with him anymore.. Melissa looked slightly embarrassed that she couldnt keep up with him.
Hey.. Dont worry. Apparently you didnt lose me for good. I attempted a joke, but the atmoshpere was still.. tense. She smiled a little and shrugged.
Yeah. I couldnt. So I made a promise. She stated firmly.
I kept hiding in a small basement room that had a great view to the entrance. And then, after some painful days I heard something just after midnight. It was him. He was there, sneaking around and I panicked. So, I grabbed my bag and followed. Thank goodness this time he wasnt so speedy. She smiled. I was thinking hard. Why would Zoot do that?
The library. Melissa simply stated and forced me to listen fully again.
Excuse me? I was confused.
He went to the library. I burst out laughing and this amazed Melissa. She jsut sat in awe as I laughed.
I knew he wasnt that stupid! I grinned. Melissas eyes were pleading for an explanation.
The library Melissa! The perfect place to hide something! I almost yelled. She was still looknig a bit lost.
Well, you remember the early days when the Locos were just starting and the city was a total mess? Remeber the oh-so-famous statements? No more teachers, no more school and especially Burn the books? Melissa smiled as she got my point.
So he found the library as a perfect place to hide something if a Loco or two got suspicious! Melissa grinned along with me.
Seems like our baddie isnt so crazed. I murmured very quietly. Actually hoping for her not to hear.
But did you know that he was for a while? Darn. My whispering failed. But Melissa didnt seem to care about my comment.
See, he kicked Ebony out. My turn to be gobsmacked.
Ebony?! Out?! My eyes were the size of a plate. Melissa nodded and continued.
Apparently she wasnt too eager to give up the leader status.. But Zoot used his powers and turned all the Locos against her.
How do you know all this?!
Well, as I mentioned, I spied the hotel for a while. And I saw a little scene between them. Ebony said shed have her revenge, but Zoot just laughed and literally kicked her out, swearing that hed kill her if she showed her face around. Ever. I gasped.
So their so called love was destroyable afterall.. Melissa was nodding wildly in a childish manner. I smiled at her enthousiasm. Then I remembered her confession earlier and yet again felt bad. She shouldnt have been hurt, but I had no choice. Besides, a teenager heart heals fast. Hopefully.
Oh, where was I..? she suddenly said and seemed to be thinking. Then she raised a finger and grinned.
A-ha! The library! So, I was crouching near the front doors and I saw him. He came down the sdtairs and was carrying someone. Me obviously I thought and expected her to continue. Melissa went quiet and stared blankly ahead. Her words were merely whispers.
I saw her there. Right infront of me.. Like in that dream..
What.. Who? Lyndsey? I guessed. She nodded and pressed her lips tightly together.
And..? I pushed. Damn me.
I couldnt see clearly. I just saw him there, eyeing the area. Then she was there. And I felt a sudden burst of sheer.. rage! I grabbed something, I dont know what and just attacked. I stared at her unbelieving. She turned to look at me and noticed my expression.
I did! I opened my mouth to speak but nothing came out.
And this was when I hit you. I couldnt see clearly and I just swung the object around. Zoot heard me coming and ducked quickly so instead of him, I hit you. Then there was this strange thing.. She murmured the last words.
I met his eyes for a brief while.. He seemed.. scared. Melissa said bluntly. I was yet again in awe by her words.
Zoot. Scared?! I was amazed, though I remembered his eyes when back at the cabin. When he couldnt move his legs. Fear. But fear of what?
He seemed to regain his composure and almost grabbed me, but chose not to. And Im pretty sure he recognised me.. That look.. it was just so confusing. You can say that again, I thought. It was all a mess.

"But! I guess that was pretty much it!" Melissa smiled broadly and quickly got up to fix the fire again. It was fine. But she kept poking it.
"So you just dragged me here?"
"Pretty much, yeah. Had to get out of that hellhole." She snorted. I kept looking at her and it was quite obvious.
"You're thinking of her, aren't you?" I asked as gently as I could. She nodded quietly. Right, that was it. I slowly stood up, trying to ignore my still aching head and stretched out my hand.
"Let's go." I grinned and helped her up.
"We're going to the city. Once again."
After some patheticly slow walking we saw the city again. It was dark. My mind told me not to go, but I couldn't let Melissa down. She saved me afterall. All we had to do, was get to the Loco base. Oh joy of living.
"Jake.." I turned to her, only to see a painful expression.
"Are you sure we should go?"
"Aren't you?" I asked, surprised. She shifted nervously and fiddled with her fingers.
"Well.. It's dangerous.. and I wouldn't want you, or me to get hurt."
"Ah. I see." I replied.
"Look, Mel. I can take care of myself. And you in the process. Just trust me." I smiled assuringly. Now all I had to do was convince myself. The smile on her face told alot. One was that I just increased her crush. Damnit. The walk continued and I calculated that by sunset, we'd be there. The Horton-Bailey. I could hardly wait..
His steps were fast, as he stormed through the alleys and stumbled upon various litter spread on the street. The raindrops streamed down his face and smudged what was left of any design. His shirt was now almost wet but it didn't seem to matter. Nothing did. He wanted out. And fast. In hurry, he dropped his bag and everything in it spread on the wet street.
"F*ck!" his lips cursed and with a quick movement, he put everything back in.
"Aww.. Poor boy." I bright and tough voice echoed in the alley. The boy's head shot up and his neutral eyes grew icy and angry.
"Ebony." He stated and slowly stood up, reaching much higher than the petite girl infront of him.
"What do you want?" he spat. Ebony's lips curved into a wicked smile and she raised her hand. With a clip of fingers five Locos came running from behind the corner and formed a neat ring behind her. The boy rolled his eyes and folded his arms.
"Yes? You merely wanted to show off? Nice try." He was about to push past her when a Loco stopped him by punching him in the chest. His eyes spat fire as he stared the Loco. The poor Loco's eyes started to doubt and he grew nervous and scared.
"Now why did you do that? You WANT to be beaten?" Ebony just laughed.
"Oh, Zootie. I don't think he's the one going to beaten. I believe it's you, sugar." She said coldly and snapped her fingers again. The Locos grabbed Zoot, few a little unsure of their actions but still carried on with their duty.
"Take him away!" Ebony shrieked and blew a kiss to Zoot who was glaring her.
"It's my way now, hun.." she smiled.
"Jaaaakee! I'm tireeed..!" I sighed and turned to her. Melissa's eyes were practically closed and she just stood there, numbly.
"Oh come on.. Only few more minutes. We must find some kind of place to crash, don't you think? This rain is getting pretty nasty.." I almost shouted through the heavy rain. Melissa nodded slightly and I grabbed her arm, dragging the poor girl across a carpark.
"Here. This one's open.." I pointed a door of a house. Melissa smiled a bit and walked in as I opened the door. It was dark and dusty. As soon as I walked in, I saw her there, on the couch, full asleep. I smiled and stroke her hair. Such a sweet girl. But I had to think. What was I doing? I was taking an innocent girl to the Locos base to get her probably dead sister.. I was going mad. These things just buzzed in my mind throughout the night, occasionally joined by thoughts of Zoot and the cabin. I missed my home. I missed my quiet and boring life. I missed.. I didn't know what I missed. My mind was a mess and so was everything else. I worked hard to sort everything out, but there were too many questions. Why was the mainproblem. So many questions relatted to why. Why did he bring me here? Why did he spare me? Why did he let Melissa go? Why? On top of it all, it was all about him. Zoot.
"Tell me Zoot.. Where were you planning on going? All by yourself? All alone.." Ebony walked around the chair he was tied to. Occasionally she brushed her hand on his shoulder and arms.
"None of your business Ebony." Zoot stated calmly. Ebony grinned.
"I'm making it my business.. sugar. Because I'm curious. You? A farmboy?" she smirked. Zoot remained quiet but the anger was building up in him.
"It's still none of your business, even if you were curious." He said and flashed a smile.
"Oh Zootie.. You really should work on that attitude. It's starting to bug me." She said threateningly and leaned closer.
"I'm asking this for the last time.. Where were you going?!" she practically spat on his face. But the calm expression stayed on his face. Ebony was furious.
"Guards!!" she screamed, her braids flying in the air as she fussed.
"Take this piece of dirt to the basement." She snorted and stormed away. Two guards approached their ex-leader cautiously. The fear and doubt was obvious in their eyes.
"Oh come on! Don't be such wusses!" Zoot rolled his eyes. He raised his hands that were cuffed and looked at the guards piercingly.
"Is it me who you follow, or that no-good woman?" he asked and looked as if he would explode any minute. The frightened young guards opened his cuffs with shaking hands and stepped back quickly.
"Thank you. Good job. You just proved you are dumbasses." Zoot smiled widely and in a second both of them were unconcious.
"You too Ebony.. Good job.." he smirked as he split.
I sat on the porch and watched as the sun rose. Slowly it brought light and warmth to the whole city. I closed my eyes and enjoyed the dry feeling. My soaked clothed were hanging on the stairs, I was desperatly trying to get them dry again. I didn't quite like my spareclothes. They were too uncomfortable. Suddenly I heard steps.
"Melissa.. Good morning.." I smiled as the girl sat beside me yawning heavily. All I got was a random mutter.
"Pretty, huh?" I tried to liven up the dead conversation.
"Yea. Nice. But I'm more of a moon person." She replied.
"Oh? You always seemed like a dayperson to me.." She shrugged.
"We all misjudge people." Wow. She was in a heavy mood today. I decided to stay quiet so no more surprising stuff would come up. But she wanted to blab.
"Are we going any time soon? I think there's no point in staying here.." she said. It was more of a statement than question and I just nodded.
"We can go. Now if you like." She was already up and went inside to gather her things. I stood up and grabbed my almost dry clothes. I guess I could wear them. I went inside and met Melissa, all ready to go.
"Come on!" she grinned and I was left behind. I just stood there stupidly.
"Jake! What are you waiting for?" she exclaimed from the porch and peeked in.
"God, Mel. I'm coming.. Just give me one minute. K?" She rolled her eyes and I understood I had only half. Like Superman, I quickly did everything and stomped to her.
"Let's start the mission." I said dramatically and made her giggle. We left, towards some obvious difficulties.
He brushed his hand against a redbrick wall, his eyes gazing somewhere far away. His steps were slow and almost silent, not making any extra noise. He just walked, deep in thought, not even bothering to check if Ebony's men were after him or not. Suddenly he stopped and shot his eyes up. Someone. Zoot quickly pressed against the wall and waited for the person to appear on the corner.
"No really, we are close. You're just completely lost in your head."
"Oh please. You've hardly even ben here." Zoot grinned wickedly as he recognised the voices. With a few quick steps he stepped right infront of the pair.
"Good morning." He said, folding his arms.
I raised my eyes to see him standing there. Coming from practically nowhere, but there he stood. Melissa was quicker than me and was already hiding behind me. So, my duty to make conversation..
"Well hi. Didn't expect to see you here.." I started, trying to think of how to make a quick escape. Though something was telling me to stay, he didn't seem hostile, just a little lost. Maybe. Zoot snorted and quickly glanced to the alley he obviously came from.
"Running?" I asked, rather casually, but my heart beating like hell. He shrugged and seemed awfully.. friendly. Or in need of a friend. Why did these situations always have to end up for me to handle?
"From where? Locos?" I continued, unaware where the conversation was leading. I didn't really want to know either.
"Yeah. Look, I'm sorry.. For.. the kidnap. And all." He suddenly blurted and looked at me nervously, then turned away. He shoved his hands to his pockets. I noticed he had got rid of the Loco attire. Amazing.
"Erm.. It's ok?" I felt Melissa punch me in the rib behind me. I eyed her questioningly.
"What?" I hissed. She rolled her eyes.
"No! It's not ok! Nothing's ok! And you know it.." she shouted, scaring the hell out of me. And also making Zoot look a little surprised. The sudden outburst of the thirteen-year-old totally caught me off guard and I was left speechless. I measured Zoot with my eyes and found even fewer things to say. He looked genuinely normal. Not the madman at my cabin. Not at all. I couldn't help but be amazed, suspicious and relieved at the same time. But still, I found nothing decent to say.
"No, it's not." Zoot stated. Melissa hid behind my back again.
"Too many people are dead because of me and my power. My power and chaos." He said. Sadly? I couldn't quite say. Melissa looked at him wide-eyed as I glanced at her.
"And that is why I'm running. Running the hell out of this place." He said as his last words and brushed past me. I spun around and saw his back parting from us. I couldn't explain my feelings. I didn't want him to go.
"That was weird.." Melissa snorted and was about to leave. I stayed put. And she noticed.
"Hey? Shouldn't we go?" she asked, and i could sense the annoyance in her voice.
"Why is he just leaving? He can't just leave!" I thought outloud.
"Oh yes he can. And no one wants him to stay anyway." But I did. I knew it now. I wanted him to stay. I suddenly found myself walking in the opposite direction I was supposed to. I heard Melissa shout something. I didn't care. I just waved something to her and walked. Past the streetlights, around the corner, along the alley. And then I saw him again. Leaning against a wall. I shoved my hands to my pockets and walked closer. He saw me and raised an eyebrow.
"Something else to bash me about?" he asked sarcastically and grinned with a weird glint in his eyes.
"No." God, couldn't I think of anything else? He shrugged but didn't look away.
"You want to get away.. Why don't you come to the cabin with us?" He look totally gobsmacked and didn't obviously bother to hide it.
"With you?! And what? Be a fisherman?" he laughed.
"Hey! Fishing is relaxing."
"Oh I bet. I get to find halfdead bodies every once in a while." He pointed out. Ok, so that wasn't such a relaxing experience.
"Is that a no?" I asked quietly, looking down. I felt sort of embarrassed. I heard no answer, so I looked up again and met his eyes. They were blue. Not the scary colour, but soft and bright. And he was smiling.
"I don't know.. That might be weird."
"Tell me about it.." I snorted and grinned. I felt a swoosh of warm in my spine.
"What?" he asked suddenly. I snapped from my gaze. I must've looked pretty stupid.
"Oh nothing.." I looked down again. I had a hard time breathing all of a sudden and I felt like I couldn't take it. My whole body was shivering as he placed his hand on my shoulder.
"Doesn't seem like nothing to me."
"Fine. So it is something." I replied quickly. He laughed and raised his hands.
"Ok ok!" While doing so I felt his hand brush against my cheek. I looked in his eyes and noticed he had gone serious.
"Look, Jacob.." But I silenced him with a kiss. The world was silenced.
The End.