I usually tried to stay out of people's thoughts, but this time I couldn't. Alistor was guessing I was part of the resistance as well as my newfound family. Had I just called this rugged band of revolutionists my family? I smiled grimly. I had. And if Alistor threatened them in any sense… I didn't know what I'd do.
Alistor and Sweede were on either side of me. I had given Alistor a sword for knives weren't the best choice for such a matter. My task was to draw the Keltcher s' attention. Each of us having a weapon would probably draw their attention.
Why was he so interested in finding the revolutionists? Was he like me, wanting to help better the lower city or was there something Eve and him were hiding? They seemed rather cunning. How had they come to be lower city dwellers? That was a tale I was rather interested in.
I heard Maverick's voice before I saw him.
"Spread all over the city. I want them to pay," he growled.
"Why don't you take your anger out on the person who took your hand and bested you, captain?" I bellowed.
I heard the Keltcher stop walking. I could picture Maverick's evil sneer. "Bested? You used demon trickery on me, boy!" he spat. "Where are you?"
"Keep walking straight. I'll give you the fight you want. I will meet you in the black market district. I will give you a rematch, captain."
If I knew anything about his ego, he would walk right into our trap
"And if you want to catch a blood traitor, Desk Guardian, you should come!" taunted Alistor.
What did he mean by that statement?
"Ah Renn," he sneered, growing closer. "This is going to be a glorious night."
"Aye. When I take revenge for you hurting Eve!"
I heard his dark laugh, but he had no retort.
"Come men, all of you will witness my triumph over this trash."
I looked at both Sweede and Alistor and we quickly retreated to the black market. I just hoped Maverick had a big enough ego to overlook the fact that he was falling into a trap.
"What is a desk guardian?" I asked in hate.
I saw Alistor smirk as if at a pleasant memory. "It is an insult to anyone who calls himself a guardian. Eve teased him once about it once."
I looked at him confused and Alistor quickly covered his mouth as if regretting letting that bit of information spill from his lips. I was trying to make sense of it. What did it all mean? I had no time to think for we had come to the black market.
"Well, are they coming?" asked Quinn.
I looked at Alistor and Sweede and they nodded.
"Aye," I said.
That's when heavy footfall confirmed my answer. "Aye," said Alistor.
Everyone else fell into position, hiding in the shadows. Sweede stayed with us and we formed a tight circle- a move I had learned in the barracks. Already Rowan was trying to slip into consciousness.
'No!' I screamed inwardly. This is my battle.This is my fight! Not yours!
You think you control me boy? he mocked. Iblis is nothing compared to my power. You are nothing compared to my strength!
I found myself on my knees clutching my head. I felt Alistor's hand on my shoulder. "What's wrong?"
"Already giving up?" mocked Maverick.
I got to my feet, wavering.
"You'd do well to remember exactly how I took your hand," I threatened coolly.
He backed up a step, fear showing in his eyes as he spat on the ground.
"It was a cowardly move."
"Really?" I said with a sneer. "Like it isn't a coward move to pick on the citizens of the lower city as you and your men do?"
Maverick's smile fella bit.
"Let's settle this," he spat, taking a step forward.
I looked to both Alistor and Sweede and they understood and backed up. I moved my hand towards the clasp on my ace, but then thought better of it. I would make Maverick back down with the fear of fire at my fingertips.
Ander, please guide me with the strength I need, I pleaded.
Everything slowed as Maverick and I circled each other. The battle commenced and Quinn had everyone come out of the shadows to begin their attack. Fire jumped from my fingertips as I sparred with Maverick.
"Demon! he spat.
I smirked. "Aye. I truly am."
His eyes glossed over in fear.
"Run," I growled.
"I am Keltcher, we don't run!"