"What took you so long to come?" I have the address of the Westin, and school is on holiday today. "
"I thought I could snoop on Carl's computer."
"Then what?"
"Worthless. The kid locked it tight. We need an expert."
"Given his father's profession, I doubt we'll ever get involved. Has he ever come back?"
"It never showed. I looked at that front door all day and all night."
"Okay, let's start driving. Before we set off again, the captain will report the latest situation in person."
"The child will come home one day."
"I would rather go after a solid suspect than a vague suspect that we can't find."
rest for a day. I had forgotten what they looked like. Rest days are less common on the other side. There is always too much to do. I didn’t get a chance to cool off all day. Now, I'm craving some real rest and relaxation - but my anxiety isn't letting me abandon the high ground. We had a three-day weekend, which I was supposed to be looking forward to, but I was really worried about my Friday afternoon after Jen's apparent meltdown the night before.
She came home from Sarah's house, locked herself in her room for the night, and said nothing to my mother or me. When I woke up Friday morning, she was gone, to God knows where. I called her cell phone from my home phone and got the message "out of range." I thought she turned it off.
I know she can take care of herself. I'm not really worried about her health. But mentally? Emotionally? She's clearly emotionally unstable. I couldn't stop thinking about what might have happened to her or the people around her.
There was nothing I could do, even though it pained me. I have to believe her now, because no matter what happened last night, no matter what happened at Sara's house, I can't see how it won't be brought up on our date today. I have to prepare for this.
I was supposed to go on a date today. The first date with the girl I’ve had a crush on for years. Worry is the perfect word to describe how I feel.
So, of course, when Sara knocked on our front door, I pulled it open a little too eagerly.
"Um, hi," she said, her little fists frozen in mid-air.
"Hi." I smiled, hoping this would break some of the ice. To my relief, she smiled back, albeit a cautious one. I'm not sure what that means, but I just put it down to her own nervousness. Of course I was nervous, why wouldn't she? "Want to go out?"
"certainly."
Sarah followed me to the garage, and a moment later I was slumped in the driveway, the truck making a distinct grunt as it rumbled away. At least that's what I think; actually, it probably sounds as scary as ever.
"Are you hungry?" I asked as I pulled onto the main road.
She rolled down the window and let her hands sway in the wind. "What's on the menu?"
"I was thinking about pizza." There was a flash in the corner of my eye. "What, don't you like pizza?"
"No, I like pizza. It's just...we actually had it last night."
"Oh. Okay." I had to think again about what happened last night, but now was not the time to ask. "Well, would you like something to eat?"
"...No, not exactly."
"Okay then." I tried to stay cheerful. She really didn’t give me much to talk about. At the same time, my mind ran through the topics I usually bring up in situations like this, where I'm trying to impress or please a girl. Those things I used to say.
This doesn't help at all. I gave up and gained nothing.
"Where are we going?" Sara asked, breaking the awkward silence.
"Well, after dinner, I haven't decided yet. Do you want to go to a movie?"
"Actually, wouldn't it be cool if we hung out for a while?" I felt really stifled. Maybe go for a walk in the park?"
I felt a chill roll down my spine, as if I already knew what she was going to say next. But I don't see any way. It's inevitable, unless I want to cancel the whole thing right now.
"Sure. Sounds good."
"Cool. Ever been to Sierraville Park?"
The chill turned to solid ice, but I continued talking as usual. "A few times, I guess."
"us?"
＊＊＊
Why on earth would I agree to do this?
After a 15-minute drive we arrived at the edge of the forest, following the same fateful route I had walked on Tuesday night. At least after that, the conversation got a lot more relaxed; some good-natured banter, talking about movies, and we started to get closer. I was surprised to find that she, like me, is an avid cook. I think it's been a real success and we have some great things in common.
Of course, fate didn't intend for us to enjoy the rest of the afternoon.
I actually don't believe in fate and fate. I hate the idea of not being in control of my life. Even if a lot of things are chalked up to luck, at least I can make choices and control my own free will. But that Friday, of all the days in my life, was the closest I came to believing that the universe really had a plan for me.
There was a pause in our conversation as we sat on a park bench soaking up the sun. We were still at the edge of the forest, where the trees and foliage were less dense. I decided to at least get an answer from Sarah to calm the fear that was still bubbling in the back of my brain.
"So, tell me if I broke any rules, but weren't you supposed to hang out with Jen today?" I asked, trying to remain casual.
Sara watched a leaf spin and fall from a nearby tree. She stared at it with her deep, thoughtful eyes until she finally answered. "Yeah. Jen called me this morning and said she had something important to do. Nothing to worry about, that's all."
Of course, this only made me more worried. Jen breaks her routine and misses out on time with her best friend, which is definitely something to worry about. It was obvious that sleep was not relieving the pain from the night before.
She wasn't getting better.
"You guys weren't fighting or anything, were you?" I asked, acting like I was joking - even though I was actually hoping that was the real answer from last night. Arguments between Jane and Sarah were not unheard of. This is a problem we can solve.
"No." Sarah stood up and stretched out her arms. She yawned - which I found particularly adorable - and pointed to a path between two trees, one of which led deeper into the forest. "It looks like it's going to be fun."
I totally disagreed but just shrugged. "lead the way."
＊＊＊
"So you're saying you haven't watched an episode?"
"I don't really like watching TV."
"Oh. Then I'll bring all the DVDs. You'll like them." She shook her head in mock disgust. "Not even one episode. Horrible."
"Sounds good. Let's go play all day. I'm going to do something special."
"Yeah." Sara licked her lips exaggeratedly. I laughed. She grinned back and soon tripped over a tree root.
In an instant, I hugged her, reaching an arm under her chest and grabbing her gently. She never fell.
I felt my heart beat faster. The dense forest seemed to surround us, like we were the only two people for miles around. All I could hear were birds chirping and the wind rustling through the leaves, and all I could see was Sarah's face, eyes wide as she squirmed in my hands. I could feel her body moving, her sudden deep breaths, still reacting to the fall.
I didn't want this moment to end, holding her like that, but I felt like I had crossed a line. I helped her stand up, let go, and took a step back to let her catch her breath.
She smiled as she relaxed again. "That's your moment, Matt."
"Um?"
"I shouldn't have let go." She turned away. I cursed under my breath. "Don't worry. I'm sure you'll get another one." She steadied herself and continued walking, deeper into the forest.
Maybe I would have had that moment too, if not for what I saw among the trees. I turned and looked for just a second. I was unfamiliar with the woods and wanted to get my bearings and figure out where we were. When I looked back at Sarah, I saw her.
Wearing a green jacket and black trousers, she sped through the woods ahead. She wore a hood that covered most of her hair, but some of her dark brown hair still spilled over her clothing. A long bow strung over her shoulder and a quiver of arrows slung across her back. Her face turned to meet mine only for a split second, clearly my sister's face.
Jane's eyes widened. I believe mine is the same. I do not know what to do. Sarah was so close to me that I couldn't call her. What was Jane doing out there? Where did she get the bow? Questions exploded in my mind like fireworks. I have to do something before Sarah finds her.
A nod. I try my best to give it meaning and emphasis. I wanted to tell Jen that I accepted it. Give her some comfort. To my relief, after a brief hesitation, Jane nodded back.
A second later she disappeared into the woods again, as completely and silently as an elf-trained huntress.
I stared at the spot where she disappeared, hoping she would come home one day, but not sure if she would ever come back. Hopefully we can have a good chat again, like before.
"You saw her too, didn't you?" Sara asked.
Any hope of getting back on our date was gone. I sighed. I don’t feel the need to deny it anymore. "Yes."
"Isn't it a little crazy that she comes out here to hunt?" Sara said so calmly and kindly that I was completely stunned. "...I'm sorry to tell you suddenly, but, I know."
So how do I respond? "Jane told you that?" I don't mean to accuse you, but that's what it is. I am angry.
"Don't you dare meddle in her business," she snapped. "If she doesn't talk to someone, she's going to break down."
"She still might," I murmured.
"What?"
“She came home last night covered in bruises,” I said. My eyes narrowed slightly. If we were to have this conversation, I would have the answer. As long as I can figure out Jane's situation, I can help her.
"Oh..." Sara's eyes lit up slightly. "I don't know what happened. We were fine until dinner. And then Jen... flew into a rage? I don't know, really. At dinner, she got super defensive and after we finished eating, she just... Ran out the back door. She looked like she was going to attack someone."
I paused, trying to think of what to say next. "How much did she tell you?" I asked slowly.
"A lot, but I guess she's seven years behind you and can't possibly tell me everything." She said so matter-of-factly. I'm very upset. She continued, her voice deepening. "She told me that only three of you are back."
A complex mixture of emotions, betrayal, anger, fear, and a whole host of other emotions I can’t name. I had to shoo them away temporarily. Sarah knows. I have to deal with this now. There is no way to save it. It's time to get more information. Whatever she knew, she knew, and then I knew what to do.
"Did she say anything about what she went through?"
"Living with Silvis for six years, completely isolated from the world, involved in a huge war, only to find you much later. Is this right?"
I nodded. "Yes. But Jane's been through worse than us."
"Like what?" she asked. She was straightforward, which is a trait I've always liked about her. Don't beat around the bush. Get straight to the point. I decided to tell her the rest. She knew enough to scold us; she most It's good to know everything so she knows what to be careful about. Maybe she can help Jen where I can't.
"She was caught," I replied. My voice broke as I tried to continue. I swallowed a few mouthfuls and cleared my throat. Even now, long after it happened, it's still painful for me to describe it, even though it didn't happen to me. "She was tortured. Forced to fight, I guess. I never heard the whole story."
"Oh, God..." Sara's face fell. "So she...what? Post-traumatic stress disorder, I guess?"
"I think so. That's probably the best way to describe it. What she went through was... well, horrific. I think it left her with no way to remember how to live in the real world anymore."
Sarah shook her head. "It's not just that. Unless I'm confused, she's the only one of you who can do stuff. Like magic or something. Right?"
I nodded. I'm not quite sure what she was trying to say.
"Yes. Consider that. Not only was she pushed back into the real world, she was severely traumatized and lost all support. Her powers. Plus, she had to deal with having her lifespan shortened by hundreds of years."
"She what?" That last sentence was new to me.
"Oh." Sarah looked uncomfortable. "…I didn't know she hadn't told you yet."
"Can you explain? Please?" I have to know.
She stood there and glanced away. "Jen told me she had a daily ritual, just like the Sylphs. She said it rejuvenated her and she could really feel it." Her face twisted into a sad smile. "She may have lived to be three hundred years old or more."
I felt like she hit me in the face with a bag of bricks. My sister, my happy sibling, the one I spent six years searching for, the one who, along with Carl, turned the tide of the war, but who still had to deal with far more than I could have ever imagined or understood - in some twisted way In an indirect way, I am responsible for it. I brought us home, and in doing so, I shortened her life significantly.
"You're blaming yourself, aren't you?" Don't. Sara grabbed my arm. I looked around and saw the passion in her eyes. "You saved her." You took her home. You can't know. "
"But she doesn't have to go home," I said weakly, words I didn't even dare say in my own head.
"What?"
"She could have stayed. It was my decision to bring us all back. I could have let her stay."
"but--"
"I think she's happy there. She has friends. She has a family. A good friend named Neferin. She has a really important position. Prestige. She's Lord Scylla, she ended a war, Unified the entire kingdom." A warm current rolled down my face. I reached up and brushed it off. "I was so proud of her. I was so proud to be her brother. And then I ran. I selfishly forced her back into the real world where she had nothing to achieve, where she was filled with fear and hurt, and there was nothing I could do about it. It’s because I’m afraid of going home alone.”
Sarah shook her head. "Don't be stupid. If you come back alone, you'll be in bigger trouble. How can you explain it to your mother? Or to the world?" Sara put an arm around me and pulled me into a hug. "Hindsight is a stupid, useless thing. I'm biased, but I think you made the right decision." She stepped back, smiling. "Come on. Let's go back."
"First dates suck," I joked, though my voice was still thick.
"It seems. I saw something that looks most like a real elf on this planet. I think I look very handsome." She smiled and held my hand. "Just make sure our second date doesn't leave you in tears."
“Deal,” I said, feeling a sudden, incongruous joy at the words “second date.”
＊＊＊
Despite this pleasant note, the rest of the date was mostly awkward silences interspersed with brief anecdotes about Seraville. Sarah seemed more interested in anything to do with Jen, which didn't surprise me since we hadn't hung out much before. I couldn't blame her for being curious, or for being concerned, because I was just as worried myself.
It was one thing for Sarah to insist that I wasn't disoriented afterward, but another for me to actually follow her advice. I think there are situations where reflection can be productive. Reviewing my mistakes was a useful learning tool. In this case, Sarah might be right. My decision was made under completely different circumstances, in a castle in another world. How could I possibly judge them by my current life?
But I couldn't help it. I was running around in my head, blaming myself over and over again. I was desperate to find a solution, anything I could do to help Jen. Anything to help my sister get out of the despair she was in.
For the second time since our return, I wondered if she really belonged in Sellaville.
I don’t give up as quickly as I used to. Everyone said that Jane liked Seraville very much and the Hilf family regarded her as their own relative. This may sound special, but in reality, it's completely unique. From what I know, including what Carl told me in his own research, the Silves were very isolated and exclusive. They were at least openly dismissive of, if not outright hostile to, all attempts at contact with human settlers. A few trade with humans, but for the most part they keep silent to one person - no, the elves.
So how did Jane, a completely ordinary person from another world, endear herself to her so perfectly that they gave her a new name and adopted her as one of their own?
I wanted to hear this story, but I knew I would only get it from Jen herself—she had never been in the mood to share it since I had reunited with her. First there was the negotiation and she didn't even recognize me. She was busy dealing with various dignitaries, generals, and nobles while still trying to learn basic English, and she glanced at me without hesitation.
Every elf commander present had the utmost respect for her. An older-looking elf with a pair of very kind silver eyes watched her every move from a distance. He usually perched in the corner of the tent, like a wise old owl (he didn't look like he had any over 30 years old). In turn, I looked at him carefully. Later I found out his name was Tethevalle
Syl
a
de
, he is the elder in the forest where Jane first appeared.
I only spoke to him once, on the eve of his death. After experiencing what I'm sure was a terrible Etoli
After e, I asked him what he thought of my sister. He laughed, patted me on the back, answered me, and said a string of words that I didn't understand, even after trying twice. When I carefully repeated them to Jen the next day, she looked embarrassed but very pleased with herself.
Of course, just an hour later we found his body on the edge of a cliff, pinned to the wall with a scroll stuffed in his mouth. Jane's happiness did not last long.
As I drove Sarah home, the memory of that incident brought me back to reality. How could I ever consider sending Jane back to that place, where war, pain, and darkness lingered in the memory and our friends were massacred by a delusional madman?
Our worlds are separate and should remain separate. I will find a way to help Jane, no matter what the cost. Once we were reunited, we could stabilize Carl and the three of us could get back to our normal lives. It started to clear up again on the road. I could see the bricks on the road again as it stretched to the horizon. All I had to do was walk again.
＊＊＊
The first step became apparent as I pulled into the garage, like fate giving me a signal to start. Jane had just walked out of the front door, probably from the bus home. It was time to talk, and she knew it. As soon as I entered, she walked straight to the living room. I paused, poured myself a glass of water, grabbed a bowl of chips, and sat down on the couch across from her.
"So," I started, but before I could, Jen interrupted.
"Yes, I went hunting. I needed some time alone, and it was a nice place to be. No one saw me. What's the problem?" Her voice was immediately hostile. I chickened out. I don't want this to turn into a confrontation, not at all.
"I just wanted to ask how your day was."
"Keldaphut. You are about to give a speech."
I raised my eyebrows. "Do you want to hear the lecture?"
"Matt, I'm 23. No, I don't care how old I look now. That's what I think. I don't need my brother to lecture me." Jen leaned back in her chair. "What I really need is some support because I'm pretty much teetering on the edge here."
I sat back, unsure of how to respond, and Jane took that as a reason to continue rambling.
"I'm scared, okay?" I'm sure you heard what I did at school yesterday because you always know everything. "
"Stand back. What happened at school?"
Je
Shaky. She shifted in her chair and glanced away. "Oh. Ah, shit. Well, I went too far with a guy, just for a moment. It was so easy to take him out, I couldn't help it. He bumped into me, and I just...reacted."
I shook my head. "Well, if I haven't heard by now, it's probably not a big deal. What happened last night?" She pressed her lips together. I sighed. "Jen, you said it yourself. You need support right now. Talk to me."
"…I don't know," she murmured. She continued, her voice hoarse. It was obvious that she was just trying not to collapse. "Everything went smoothly. I felt like it had for years. None of Sarah's credit, not mine. But throughout the dinner, I didn't know if it was me or because there were too many people around. But I felt …Empty. In danger. Well…” Jane paused, trying to find the right words. Whenever she tried to think in English, her eyes always darted around in the same way. "threaten".
I wanted to stand up, go to her, hug her and reassure her that everything was going to be okay. But I knew that with her current state, I would only make things worse. She doesn't need anyone by her side. I don't know what she needs. I just wish I could provide it.
"You think you can attack them," I concluded. Jane nodded, looking ashamed. "But nothing happened, right?"
"nothing."
"That's good. You did nothing wrong."
"I don't want this to happen anymore, Matt," she cried. “Vei kilsve dov Vei
alvv
ulvus”
I couldn't understand what she was saying, but the emotion behind it was more emotional than anything she could say in English. It was filled with such painful despair that my heart nearly burst out of my chest.
What else can I say?
Tell her everything will be okay? I believe it will, but the words seemed so hollow in that moment.
Should I give her what she wants? Provide for her like I've always done?
Does she want something stern and commanding, or something kind and gentle?
Why am I a father figure? A leader, a general, a commander?
I hate that my thoughts are coming back to me. This is Jane's business, not mine. I don't have time to worry about myself right now.
An idea suddenly occurred to me.
"Jen, tell me about Tessie Varun."
That's a wild guess. This is something we never got around to talking about, but the elves are obviously very important and almost everything about them is a great memory. She could fasten herself to it. Maybe it's not about this world, but as long as I can get her out of this vortex, I'm willing to do anything.
Jane blinked angrily for a moment, looking surprised. “Tethevalle
What? Like what?"
"Who is he?" I mean, he obviously cares about you. I've only met him once, but he seems like a great guy. "
Jane wiped her eyes with her sleeve. "He is my father."
I raised my eyebrows. "No."
"No, of course not." Jane rolled her red eyes, but she smiled a little silly after hearing my joke. "But basically he adopted me when no one else would. He gave me a name and brought me into our sunshine. If he hadn't found me the week I was starving to death, I wouldn't be here now. It’s such a pleasure to chat with you here.”
It was then that I realized Jane's Elf accent. When she talked about another family of hers, a family I had never known, I could hear their culture through her voice, a unique voice I had never heard anywhere else. To me, Carl seems a little crazy about this so-called "magic language," but his accent is really special.
"But you don't understand him."
Jane smiled. "Not a word was said. After a while we learned some good gestures. He didn't start learning English until after the war started. Years later I asked him about it and he said it was obvious that English had been used long ago. It was banned. I was the first person in the entire sun to learn it, and the two of us started teaching others."
"Sorry to interrupt, su
What does syl mean?”
Je
chuckled. "I'm sorry. It's hard to remember that you're an uneducated fool."
I raised my eyebrows dramatically. "How do you learn a language so quickly?"
"Magic, du
alav-hila. She grinned. "Sunsil is a... villain." shorten. Two words. "
"Abbreviations," I added. "fool". Jane threw a pillow at me. It hit the wall with a thud, right where my head had hit. "Is this really the best you can come up with?"
"I can do better, but you won't understand, so what's the point?" Jane sighed mockingly. "No matter what. su
syl is suu
Abbreviation of is and sylvec, meaning "our forest". Actually it just refers to a group of Sylphs. Or a home. A community, I guess you would call it. "
"Um."
"Follow Je
ife
Silve
Dale takes language classes." She waved her hand and pretended to bow. "Hey, look, it worked. You... syldavacka. You controlling bastard. This is it. Jane smiled. "I'm happy now, good for you." "
Despite the insult, I laughed. The best strategy I've ever devised is as straightforward as this one. I knew that if I could get her to talk about anything to do with her adopted legacy, she would regain some kind of peace. At least it's much better than the doubtful, angry, and fearful guy I met the first time.
I hope it continues, but as usual, fate's ugly claws have reached out to us once again.
There was a knock at the front door. Our heads turned in that direction. It's noon; it's unlikely anyone we know will be visiting, right?
The knock came again. A second later, the doorbell rang again. Whoever it was, he clearly had no intention of leaving.
"Wait here?" I whispered. Jane nodded.
I tiptoed toward the door, eager to catch a glimpse of our uninvited guest before I appeared. To my surprise, I heard a knock on the door. After a while, the lock clicked and the door opened.
"Jane?"
I felt both relieved and angry. "Hello, Carl."
I stepped forward, pulled him into the house, and closed the door. His face contorted into an expression I can't describe. There are too many emotions scattered among them to name them all.
"You son of a bitch," he growled.
"Um?"
"Stop playing dumb. This is about Blake."
Did Carl know? How could he possibly find out? There is only one possible, logical conclusion.
Jane, what did you do?
I chose diplomacy. "Carl, I'm sorry."
"I'm sorry? I'm sorry?" Karl's voice rose. "Oh, that's great. Matt is sorry he sent a friend to his grave
Like a curtain falling on a stage, the veil is lifted. Carl knows. I was exposed to him. The secret was out, and he stood before me, furious in his heart and vengeful in his eyes, like two bonfires.
"Blake and I made a decision. We did what we had to do." My own voice rose, as if speaking over Carl's would right the wrong. As if I could simply overcome the guilt and depression within me.
"If I hear one more of your bullshit excuses, you're going to eat the floor, asshole."
Carl's attitude changed. I can see clearly. While he may still have the mental abilities and a dozen fighting techniques he learned over time, his body doesn't have enough training or focus to keep up. Everything he did was widely passed down.
His weight has changed. One punch, low. I ducked easily, but he swung wide. Carl managed to keep his balance. He never thought that one would land. Another fist had already come from the opposite side.
His punch hit. I rolled with it, letting the momentum absorb the blow, refusing to let him deliver the impact.
"Calm down," I yelled, but Carl's expression grew sharper. His determination runs deep. He swung again and I ducked. I may have fought back, but neither of us had a chance.
The arrow's strike shaft emerged from the stair railing, between the two of us, at eye level.
We froze.
As a group, our heads turned to Jane. She stood across the hall, another arrow already in the string. Ready to retreat and launch at a moment's notice.
"You two are no longer idiots?" she asked calmly.
I nodded and took a step back.
Carl gasped. He narrowed his eyes.
"Karl, I'm going to put this arrow through your head. Ovol."
Carl backed away slowly, reluctantly. He leaned against the doorframe while I waited by the stairs.
"We can't fight," Jane said.
"No," I agreed.
"But-" Carl said.
"But there's nothing," Jane snapped. "Arrow. Skull."
Karl was silent.
"Very well," Jane said, still eerily calm. "Matt?"
"Carl, we have to stick together now," I said. Judging by Carl's reaction, I chose the wrong words.
"Sticked together?" His voice started to rise again. "Too rich, you fucking hypocrite."
"Calm down," I began, even though I knew it was futile.
"Se develd!"Je
Make a hissing sound.
We were immediately silent. Carl and I both knew what those words meant—but most of all, the sudden intensity of Jane's voice made my brain tremble with fear, recalling the memory of the ambush deep in the forest.
"There's a knock on the door," she whispered, her voice quieter than her breath.
I turned around. It took me a long time to turn around and face the dark brown door. When my eyes focused on the golden door handle, the whole world disappeared. I hope Jane is really wrong and for the first time ever, she thinks there is a threat nearby.
That's not how fate works. Fate and I are mortal enemies from now until the end of time.
Three knuckle raps on the door - and in that moment I knew our lives on Earth were about to be shattered to pieces.
