Serenity
"There's no more reason to live."
The guy's words I spoke with the other day ran in my mind as I sailed my way across the ocean. Tears started blurring my sight once again as I stared at Ethan's body, lying in front of me in the old creaking boat. I should've buried him, but I couldn't get myself to do it. I decided to take his body with me though I didn't know where else I'm heading. It felt so wrong to leave him alone.
--Hey, can you hear me? My hands trembled as I tried to speak with that someone who heard my thoughts. But just like my other attempts, he didn't answer back. I wonder if he's dead. Did he kill himself? Maybe I should do that too. It would surely end the pain.
--It hurts so much to be alone. I feel what you felt that day. I hope you can hear me. I hope someone, anyone can hear me.
Slowly, I invited every thought of every people in Babylon, and I heard the familiar simultaneous chattering of voices. Back then I only get to listen to them for a few minutes and I was amazed at how thankful and grateful they were for waking up each morning, but everything I thought perfect in each and every one of them started falling apart. Their minds were filled with so much filth than those who are in Necropolis who thought about survival each day. Filth as in trash, useless.
Some thought about what else they should wear to look outstanding. Which style would suit their hair? Some envy the others while faking their smiles and compliments at them. Men think of lustful thoughts—and I thought people here should be thinking Godly thoughts.
I shook my head and stared once again at the gray sky. I reached up my hand and the sun's dim light peeped through the spaces between my fingers. I wonder what the sky looked like back then. Did the sun shine brighter? What color was it back then? And was the sky really gray? I'd love it if it were pink!
I put my hand down and dipped it in the bluish gray water. It was cold, so cold like death. How can one of the sources of life be so lifeless? No waves, not even a small one. I don't know how to swim. My heart skipped a beat and I swallowed hard at the thought. I looked at Ethan then back to the water.
--How can you be so stupid?! You have fifty men with you and there were only two of them! And worse, you poisoned the boy and still haven't caught the girl! How can two foolish Necros escape the infamous Guardians of Babylon?
Chills ran down my spine. That was not a thought I just heard! It was the ruler of Babylon speaking with the General. His deep snake-ish voice echoed in my ears. Shit, this has never happened before! I have never ever heard someone speak, unless they speak in their minds. I only hear thoughts.
I trembled as I felt an immense power reverberating from Central Babylon. Yeah, there's no doubt it was from Marco. I knew I felt something strange, something unsettling the moment I first met him but I never imagined it to be this sinister and strong. I never thought he has this kind of power that can go up to this range.
--Of course you won't dear Serenity.
I stilled. Did he just—did he—?
--Yes, my love.
Hairs all over my body rose at the malice-filled voice. Gosh, how could people here think that his voice is soothing?
--Now thank you for your inexperience in controlling this gift you have. Gave me the chance to finally get my hands around your neck. Such a waste your brother died. I knew you two were gifted the moment I first laid my eyes on you. Your brother did a great job keeping his energy steady to hide what he really is. If you had just surrendered yourselves then—
--Then what? You're going to offer me as a sacrifice?! Rape me then stab me to death? How different are you from the Brotherhood in Necropolis, really?
So that was one of the reasons why Ethan didn't want me to listen to anyone's thoughts. To make us unnoticed.
--Oh, believe me there's a whole lot of difference between us. I'll be gentle with you. I promise.
--Gentle your face you psychotic son of a bitch!
--I. Will. Get. You.
Just like that his thoughts vanished. I tried concentrating more to get into his head but out of the thousand thoughts, I never found his again.
"Oh, Ethan! Marco's coming for us! I think he's found out where we are. What are we going to do? Do you think we'll be safer in Necropolis? Ethan—"but I stopped myself as I looked down and saw Ethan's corpse. Oh, right. How could I be so stupid and forget? He's already dead. No longer with me.
Tears welled in my eyes once again. Maybe death is better but I didn't want to get caught. I didn't want to die in the Council's or Marco's hands. There's no way I'm going to let them have me. I'm sure they'd never get to lay a finger on me if I jumped out of this boat and drown myself.
"I'll be with you soon, Ethan." I stood up and tried to get my feet off the boat but for some reason, it just wouldn't move. My heart pounded beneath my chest. I was scared, so scared of dying but what else is there to live for? I'm just going to die later on so why not just take my own life? But even before I formulate another dramatic question in my mind, my ears have already been filled with a screeching sound that I immediately sat back on the boat, rocking it back and forth.
Even though I cover my ears, the piercing won't go away. The sound came from the inside.
--Damn you Marco! I swear you're going to rot in hell!
I wasn't able to hear Marco's answer anymore, nor the splash of water as the boat turned upside down. Before I knew it, I was already drowning. I screamed but water gushed inside my nose and my mouth down to my throat and lungs. It hurt. I tried to surface but I couldn't—maybe because I didn't know how to swim, or because of the piercing sound that seemed to whack my brain, or maybe because I didn't want to anymore.
--Why do people strive to live when they know there's only death in the end?
It's him! Despite the brain whacking sound, I heard him crystal clear. Too bad, I won't be able to respond. I didn't know the answer to his question anyway.
--Help me...
I didn't know why I asked for help, he probably didn't hear me. I guess I'll never find out. My eyes darted up towards the dimly lit sun, slowly losing the little luster it has left. I welcomed the darkness as I saw Ethan going down in the water. With me.
I woke up on someone's shoulder. Do dead people get carried like this so they could reach their destination? I winced as I felt my brain aching. Geez, if I'm dead then why am I feeling pain?
--Such a filth! Why don't we just throw everyone from Necropolis back to where they came from? Marco is just so forgiving for ordering us to give her back.
--It's a relief the bastard's dead. Now we only have to deal with the girl. After the girl is dead then we can be spared from God's wrath.
--They shouldn't have opened the search for survivors in Necropolis anyway! They would just bring nothing but plagues!
Okay, the fact that I just heard all those thoughts meant that I was still alive. Slowly, I opened my eyes and squinted as light blinded me. I tried as hard as I can to remain calm so whoever's carrying me won't feel my consciousness. When my eyes finally adjusted to the light, I saw the broad back of the guy that carries me. A black cross is printed at the back of his long white robe that trailed down the marble floor. Marble floor? I looked closely and saw that there were carved patterns of intertwining stars connected by series of crosses.
There were rows of black and white candles seated on tall silver holders, and the double doors in front of me was carved with an eye and an enclosed pyramid. Chills ran down my spine as that eye bore into mine. I tore my gaze away and saw five other men—also wearing long white robes—walking slowly in front of that guy that carried me as if on a procession. Just then, I realized what the place was.
No! This can't be. They're going to do it! No, no, no, no.
I panicked and struggled away but the man carrying me was too strong to fight off. "Let me go you son of a bitch! Put me down!" I was already screaming my lungs out but they acted as though they're not hearing me as they continue their slow and noiseless march. I banged my fists on the guy's back and even tried clawing his face but he only tightened his grip on me. No! I don't want to end up like this. I don't want their hands on my body!
I closed my eyes and took a deep steadying breath but as air filled my lungs, an electrifying sensation crept all over my body. A surge of massive energy flowed uncontrollably inside me. It was overwhelming, it felt divine. It washed both the fear and pain away and when my eyes flew open, I felt so powerful than I have ever been in my life.
"I said. Let. Me. Go." My voice was filled with so much calmness yet so much rage. The deep hollow tone was filled with so much confidence and vehemence that I wasn't sure it belonged to me. It sounded evil. I sounded evil.
I started to let go of the building energy inside me, and the huge guy holding me collapsed, screaming his lungs out as he covered his ears. He dropped me down but I barely felt the pain of my landing, and as much as I'd like to stay and torture him, I got to my feet and started running away.
"Guardians! Stop that girl, she's dangerous!" One of the men from the Council shouted as I pushed my way out of the double doors. The Guardians ran after me and though I had no idea where I'd be heading, I ran straight until I saw the wall barrier that separated Babylon from Necropolis. I was almost at the intersection but where do I go out? Where?
There were guards everywhere but as they headed to capture me, each of them dropped to their knees like the guy from the Council. I couldn't believe it was me who did that and despite the exhaustion, I felt so strong, like no one can ever cross my way. But I'd be dead for sure once they start shooting poisoned arrows.
Speaking of them, why aren't they shooting? It'd be easier for them to end this chase. Then I realized, they probably needed me alive. Hell no. I'd never let them catch me!
I looked around panting until my eyes caught a huge metal gate guarded by two bulky men. I turned back but saw more men running towards the gate. If I run back, I'd be dead in their hands but if I cross the wall, then I'd live.
Both men screamed and dropped to the ground the second I faced them, and immediately my hand found and tore the key from the guard's waist.
As soon as I stepped foot at the intersection, a liberating feeling swept over me. I'll be free. I ran once again before they get to me. I ran towards the only path available, to the forest, where the dead trees were—with the Risen, maybe.
I was running too fast that I didn't notice the dark knotted roots on the way. My left foot got caught in it and I landed on thorny vines that tore at my flesh.
My lungs already felt like exploding and my aching limbs protested when I tried to stand up. I can't go on. I can no longer run but I can't get caught. No, no way. I took another attempt to get on my feet but before I could even steady myself, I heard the ear and brain whacking sound.
"Stop! Please, it hurts!" Tears streamed my face as the piercing sound became even more intense. "Ah!" I shrieked, twisting in pain as I completely fell on the ground. "Please... Stop. Please."
I panted and curled up like a ball as the pain suddenly ceased. I didn't hear someone approach but I felt the pain as someone hoisted me up by the hair. I looked up and saw Marco kneeling in front of me, arrogance visible on his face.
"Did you really think you could get away from me, my lovely Serenity?"
My insides churned as he caressed my face. "You-you will never have me!"
"Oh, you seem to have mistaken. I already have you." His deep black eyes lined with wrinkles bore into mine. He looked older than I remembered. Gray hairs peeped through his hood and fell on his forehead.
I tried to pull away but my physical strength left me. His mouth closed over mine and I pressed my lips together as he forced his tongue inside. I struggled from him but he pulled me closer as he licked my mouth and caressed my waist down. Every inch of me trembled in disgust, my stomach churned. I felt nauseated and without second thoughts I let it out while his mouth is on mine.
"Fucking bitch!" He cursed as he pushed me hard on the ground. I yelped in pain but a smile curled on my lips.
"That I am, you fucking bastard!" He spat and slapped me hard. I clenched my teeth in attempt to control the boiling revulsion. I can't take it anymore.
"Let's head back to our territory, the girl has run long enough to reach the intersection. We must leave now before the Brotherhood comes along." He said, the hem of his white robe fanned as he turned his back on me.
Two men wearing black shirt and black tattered jeans hoisted me up. "Ah!" I gasped in pain as they pulled my arms too hard. My chest rose and fell as I took succeeding breaths to calm my increasing anger. Ethan died because of them. They were the reason why I'm all alone, and now they wanted to take me and violate my body. They're taking things too much for granted!
The breathing in and out seemed to build more hate than calmness, but I welcomed it anyway. I closed my eyes and steadied my feet on the ground, and soon came the familiar surge of energy. It's even stronger this time, so strong my entire body felt like exploding.
The men pulled me forward but the energy from the ground held me in place.
"Sir—"I let it out before he could even continue. Both of them fell screaming and writhing in pain. The other fifty or so men stepped back in fear. Shocked, Marco turned and faced me.
"Weren't you taught that it's rude to turn your back on someone you're speaking with?"
"You worthless—"I brought the energy upon him and though the pain distorted his face, he stood his ground. Marco stared at me straight in the eye and I heard it again. No! Not again.
My knees wobbled and I swallowed hard as I conjured more power from the earth, from the air, from everything that has life. My eyes found the two men still thrashing in pain and an idea came over me. Slowly still enduring the pain the piercing sound brought, I knelt on the ground and placed my hand over the two men's shoulders. Curiosity showed on Marco's face and I cast a wicked smile. My hands felt the weak but warm energy circulating inside them and as I took a breath, they immediately dried up.
I closed my eyes, savoring the pleasure of sucking the life out of the bastards who killed Ethan. Oh. Is this what it feels to be powerful? The screeching sound went away. I opened my eyes and slowly got to my feet, couldn't help but put an evil smile on.
"You are so dead Marco..." I recognized the same deep hollow voice that came from me. My chest heaved as I released the energy towards him. Marco covered his ears as pain brought him to his knees. I added more pressure, more energy into his head. He gasped and shrieked as he felt his skull being compressed. And oh, those screams of pain were like music to my ears.
"Does it feel good, Marco?" I glared at the men who tried to advance but stepped back and started to run as one of them dropped dead. Yeah, I sucked his life out just by emptying his energy. "Looks like you're on your own now. Prepared for death?"
Though he could no longer find his voice to speak, he smirked at me. I am killing him but he is smirking at me? It pissed me off. "Bastard!" I spat at him and wielded another wave of energy. Blood spurt from his mouth, then his nose, then finally his ears and eyes. I made him bleed to death. He deserved it. He got served for what he deserved.
I didn't know how long it took me before I realized that Marco was already dead. I blinked twice or thrice at the image of his deflated body surrounded by a pool of blood. I stepped back and saw three more corpses, their faces pale, their eyes stuck out from their skull and their mouth wide open. Their body similar to Marco's deflated one.
My entire body shook as the enormity of what I'd done kicked in. I just killed men! Not just men but Marco, the Ruler of Babylon and three other Guardians. What have I done? My knees wobbled as I recalled how I felt when I took their life. It felt wonderful, beyond magnificent to feel them slowly dying while I gained power and strength. It scared me to think that I actually liked it—no, loved it.
Ethan, where is he now when I need him? I need to hear him say that everything will be all right, that I'm not evil, that I'm gifted and not cursed. He's gone, these people killed him. I kept telling myself over and over that they brought this upon themselves, but the guilt of loving the feel of murder didn't go away.
This wouldn't have happened if they didn't take Ethan away from me. But Ethan's death had nothing to do with loving murder. But maybe it was because of Ethan's death that made killing those low-lives feel so good. It was revenge. They deserved this.
I cupped my hands over my mouth as I fell on the ground butt-first. The conflicting emotions were way beyond my league of understanding. It was too much to take in. I hugged my knees and rocked myself back and forth. What am I supposed to do now?
--Help me. Anyone...
It was silly because I knew no one will hear, not even the God they've been talking so good about. Why do people strive to live when they know there's only death in the end?
I turned my head left and saw a beautiful white flower underneath the thorny vines and dry roots.