Part 4: Closer Than Combat
“So... this is what you spend your free time doing?” Mallnora questioned as she watched Novix sprawled out on the couch. “You don’t believe this stuff, do you?”
Novix paused the video which played on the television, his head turning to face the woman who now hovered over him like a statue. It was odd seeing her during the day, with the sunlight shining on her form. It was certainly the time of day she dressed for based on what he had seen up to this point, and viewing the dark brown slacks and white blouse with a black hooded coat only made it more apparent that she did not care to stand out. Then again, now that he was looking at it, wasn’t that the coat he had given her? A heavy zip up hood of dark gray and black, sleeves which clearly were too long for it to belong to her?
“I find this stuff pretty interesting. Do you not?”
“You mean these human superstitions?” she spoke as she read the title of the video. “Ghost and Cryptid Sightings?”
“Humans have, for the most part, lived alongside claimants for a really long time. Even if they don’t know it, they have. I find it entertaining to see how they interpret things which have had to do with us. Like how they’ve labeled some of the ancients as gods in their culture, or seen certain beasts or claimants and registered them as legendary creatures or heroes.”
“You mean like Arthur?”
“Yeah! Just like Arthur!” Novix spoke as he rose up from the couch with an excited look. “I mean, his current life isn’t so well versed in the arts of ruling over kingdoms, but the fact remains that the humans hailed him as this incredible person. A king without even knowing that he was a claimant the entire time!”
“It’s good to keep the realities of humans and claimant separate. They do have a tendency to attempt... overstepping their boundaries with every new thing they discover.”
“You’re not wrong about that, but I still find it to be quite the interesting concept,” he spoke as he walked to the kitchen and retrieved a bottle of water from a cabinet. “Some of the most substantial battles in human history, which changed the entire way they viewed things or shaped their societies entirely, weren’t even fought between humans, but claimants who they held to extremely high regard. There are even tales of legendary knights and warriors on battlefields, but would they not just be claimants among humans? What are we meant to gather from these stories shared amongst humans that we cannot confirm?”
“You mean to say that, while it interests you how the history of humans and claimants have crossed, it interests you more to see the things with no explanation? Such as these things they spot out in the wild?”
“Indeed! Have you considered it? That when someone makes a video displaying their evidence of some elusive creature out in the deep woods that they're instead showing evidence of finding traces of a certain claimant? Perhaps one that we know nothing about?”
“You’re very odd, but I see your point. If the humans spot something which we know nothing about then that may simply be exposing some hidden claimant... however, that doesn’t matter for now. I’m here because we have work to do.”
“Already? Didn’t we just do some work yesterday right after meeting?” Novix questioned her as he leaned against the nearest wall.
“I see I did not inform you, but we will rarely have any days off. Unless the situation is something I believe someone else can handle, it will always be one or two of us handling it, although most days will be me doing paperwork. Those will also be days you have off unless work is assigned.”
“Huh. Well, at least it’ll keep me busy.”
Mallnora’s eyes panned across the room, spotting every single decoration and item which existed in his space. It was night the last time she was there, and she had barely been paying attention to his interior, but now that it was sunny she could clearly see just how bland his decorations were. His walls were made from brick and yet he hung no pictures or wall hangings. His kitchen was clearly in constant use, but there weren't many food items to be seen. That was all there was to it. He had a single rug which rested in the area where both his television and couch were and where a single coffee table laid. A few pieces of technology here and there for the simply necessities, but other than that he owned very little of anything. She wanted to go and see his room, but decided against snooping through his things.
“Perhaps on your days off you could look for decorations? Your home seems to be lacking... personality.”
“I like to keep things like this, helps to keep my head clear and my thoughts in order.”
“Interesting... Well, go get ready, and wear something presentable. We have certain places to visit and I would like the people there to not believe I’m roaming around with civilians.”
“Says the person wearing my favorite jacket,” he spoke as he made his way to his room.
“You offered it and you never took it back. As such, I kept it for myself. It is... useful.”
A knock at the door caused the older male to look up from his desk. The room was clean, orderly, in perfect condition as most offices would be. The male in question had a head of slicked back gray hairs, black slacks with a white shirt and black tie. He lowered the cigar from his lips for a moment before taking a deep breath and placing it into the ash tray on his desk next to a revolver. Straitening himself up, he stood to his feet and moved his joints about before finally choosing to respond.
“Come in!” he spoke before the door swung open and Mallnora stepped inside.
“I see you’re as relaxed as ever. I believe I informed you that we were coming.”
“Yeah, I remember. Where’s your partner?” the male spoke to which Mallnora turned her head to find no one behind herself. “No-No! Hurry up!”
“Alright, calm down. I’m right here,” the sun claimant spoke as he rounded the corner with a cup of coffee and a bag full of sandwiches. “They had food just sitting out over there!”
“Can’t you control yourself for more than five minutes?” Mallnora scolded him with eyes filled with disapproval.
“Hey, you were the one who brought me out here before breakfast! I’ll take whatever meal I can get at this point.”
“So, this is your new partner?” the human spoke as he eyed Novix. “I’ve never known you to work with anyone, but something tells me that you two don’t get along too well. I’m surprised you even accepted him.”
He looked over the claimant who scarfed down a sandwich in seconds, wondering what could have possessed Mallnora to ever work with them. If he hadn’t managed to hear Novix speak he would have also mistaken him for a woman as she did, but leaving that aside it was astonishing that he acted so casual with her. From what she had told him they had only started working several days ago, but he spoke with her as if they were equals, and she never treated anyone he knew as an equal. He wore black shoes, black slacks and a black shirt with the top buttons undone. He wore a long coat which rested over his shoulders much like his jacket did, more like a cloak compared. His hair was still in the same long ponytail, but now it rested peacefully over his left shoulder.
“He gets the job done, and his company is welcomed,” Mallnora spoke to which it was clear that Novix took extreme pleasure in hearing those words.
“I enjoy working with you too, Mal.”
“Shut up... now, down to business,” she spoke as she approached the male’s desk and placed down an envelope. “I believe this should suffice as payment for the information I require. Do you have what I asked for? I expect a proper answer.”
“You certainly still don’t waste any time.” The older male reached into his desk from which he pulled out an envelope of his own. “I don’t know why you need this, but as always it isn’t any business of mine. You’ve provided us with more than enough information we can use to accomplish our job, so this is the least I could do in return.”
Mallnora reached forward and retrieved the envelope, opening it to reveal the blueprints for a building Novix did not recognize as he looked over her shoulder. The building floorplan was basic yet full of intricate halls and corridors. It almost looked as if it had been built with the idea of combat eventually seeing its halls, but the fact that it involved her meant that it would only make the work more difficult. There were multiple floors to worry about and the floorplan was designed in mind for a somewhat corporate style living space. Not to mention a connected warehouse and the addition of underground areas. Then again, their target would not be a simple one to locate.
“Is that a five-story building?” Novix asked as he drank a bit more of his coffee.
“Indeed. Along with two more floors beneath ground level. We will go over this in more detail later,” she spoke as she placed the blueprints back into the envelope. “Your work is appreciated as always, detective. Continue to do this well and I will continue relying on you.”
“As will I rely on you, Ms. Mallnora.”
“Good day,” she spoke as she left the room. Novix waving to the detective before following behind her.
“So, do you plan on telling me what we need those blueprints for?”
“Not here, we will speak on this at my home. The information is delicate and we never know who’s listening.”
“Alright, alright. I hear you,” he spoke as he took a bite from one of his sandwiches. An action which caught Mallnora’s eyes before she reached out her hand in his direction.
“Give me one.”
“Huh?!” he exclaimed as he stopped in his tracks.
“Give me a sandwich, I also haven’t had breakfast.”
“You’re serious!” he spoke with a laugh as they continued on their way and exited the building. “Next time you should just let me cook us breakfast.”
“It wasn’t necessary. We were meant to meet this man at a specific time, so it was a secondary thought. I would not have even asked if you had not taken so much food.”
“Well, you have to remember what’s important.” She turned to speak only to find herself face to face with one of the sandwiches. It was well toasted, the smell of mustard and turkey the first things she noticed, alongside tomatoes and lettuce. There were hints of pickle as well, or possibly dill, but most importantly was the Swiss cheese.
“Hmm,” she groaned in a disappointing tone. Novix raised his brow before pulling back the offer and instead offering the one he had bitten off of. “What are you doing?”
“Something told me you wouldn’t like the cheese. You just don’t seem like the type. You can have mine, if you don’t mind the bite I already had.”
She looked at the new sandwich, her eyes examining its ingredients along with her nose. Also toasted, filled with chicken and mayo, the strong scent of tomato pesto and rosemary. He was also considerate enough to take note of his own sandwich having sharp cheddar instead of Swiss cheese. Whatever instinct he had which told him she did not like the cheese of the other sandwich instead of any of the other ingredients was something she had no knowledge of, but at the same time she found herself pleased to know that she wasn’t the only one attempting to learn things about her new partner. Although it seemed like he was better at it. He never even asked her any questions.
“I suppose I do not mind,” she spoke as she took the sandwich in her hands. Her eyes rested on it for a moment, questioning many things which held very little meaning as an intellectual, but they were things which flustered her. It did not keep her from biting into the item and enjoying herself with a smile.
“You continue to do as you’ve always done,” he spoke which caught her attention entirely. “It’s clear that you care for your work more than your own well-being. I understand that much, Mal. So, you just continue to do as you’ve always done and I will worry about your well-being as your partner. How does that sound?”
What is he talking about? How can he be so unaware of the things that he’s saying?
“That is... if that is what you want to do then I will not complain. Just make sure you do your job correctly.”
“Of course! You can count on me, leader,” he spoke as he watched the woman continue with her sandwich. She looked... down. As if her mood had managed to change substantially. He had yet to see such a look in her eyes, as if there were some substantial traces of deep emotion. “Are you alright? If it bothers you that much I can-”
“No, it’s not that,” she spoke as they continued down the sidewalk. “I know you said not to, but I still would like to apologize for what I said the other day. I had not taken into consideration what your feelings were, and I spoke in a way that caused you displeasure. It was not my intention to do that. I have been told that I am... inconsiderate... in the past. I do not wish to have our partnership soured due to my actions.”
Novix stepped forward, positioning himself in her path which caused her to stop suddenly. He looked into her eyes in a manner which caused her to panic slightly. It wasn’t a bad look by any means, rather he seemed to be doing something she had experienced when face to face with people like DeVian or Evagelyne. As if he were staring directly into her soul, although she had only interacted with them with passing glances. While it felt as if she were being intimidated when faced with the others, it more so seemed as if he were placing himself into a position of understanding. As if he were trying to see something that was there yet she could not understand. The panic faded slightly when he smiled in a rather pleasant manner, but it quickly returned the moment she felt his hand press against her cheek.
“Don’t worry about it, Mal.”
“W-what are you doing?” she spoke as she stepped back slightly.
“I’m not holding a grudge or anything like that. I won’t be holding who you are against you, Mal. While I did say what I said, and I know I said a lot of things, that doesn’t mean I don’t care.”
“You... care about me? You barely even know me, Novix.”
“Let’s just say it’s a hunch, or my heart telling me you can be trusted. You’re my partner, and my first ally in a very long time. That alone is enough to warrant my favor. But most importantly I’d prefer you take care of yourself, and if you neglect to do so then I gladly will. We’re in this together after all. Right?”
The way the words came out of his mouth carried so much meaning, and yet her mind was racing nonstop. Was he just outright oblivious to what he was doing and saying, or perhaps he simply meant to toy with her. Either way it certainly made her feel as if she were being toyed with, watching as he turned and continued down the sidewalk with her standing motionless for a moment before moving quickly to catch up. How he managed to be so odd was a mystery she might never understand, but there was always the chance that he was completely serious. Someone as odd as him could always do something like that if they so desired, unbound by the social norms of the modern day.
“You’re far too oblivious with how you interact with others, No-No.”
“What do you mean? I think it’s pretty normal,” he spoke as he munched on his sandwich.
“Normal... perhaps you’re just too weird for your own good,” she spoke as she nibbled on the last of the sandwich she was given.
It felt odd every time she did it, but the feeling of uncertainty never left her body when she would open the door to Novix’s home. By now they had managed to work together for several weeks, or perhaps months? The time seemed to slip by so casually and they were both so busy; there was also rarely any time to take note of the days. After they had gathered the blueprints from the detective, they had gone about normal work as usual until the arrangements were in place for things to move. In that meantime Mallnora had gone about studying her partner closer and closer, learning more and more about him as time went on and taking the proper notes in order to maximize their efficiency. It was far easier than she had anticipated; he didn’t ever seem to fly off the hinges in the slightest compared to how he was described to in his documents.
“No-No?” she called out as she entered the apartment. “It’s late, but we have work to do.”
With no answer she would be left to assume that he wasn’t there, or at least asleep in some separate part of the area. He had told her many times to call beforehand, but she had always chosen to show up in person. Now, at least for the moment, she regretted having chosen to forgo informing him of her arrival. Even so, she would still have the opportunity of rummaging through his things.
Something about the idea of learning more about the male pleased her on a personal level. The more she learned about him the more interesting things seemed; the more interesting it seemed the more she wanted to know, and that cycle simply continued. She removed her shoes and placed them near the entrance, a pair of tan fur boots which went well with her white leggings and white dress. She of course still wore the same jacket he had given her on their first job, but her excuse for that would be its capabilities as well as simply growing used to wearing it. The sleeves covered her hands completely and she couldn’t get rid of his scent which clung to the item like a curse, but those things didn’t bother her in the slightest.
“No-No? You’re not asleep in here, are you?”
She skulked around the house checking all of his normal resting spots, finding him to not occupy any of them. The couch was empty, the television off, no meals in the kitchen, no lights on, but the place still held the strong scent of honey she had grown accustomed to having at her side. It was almost nostalgic. Thinking about it, she had been looking forward to this. She had spent the past few weeks doing preparations and in the meantime she had him work alone, the male more capable in his work than she had thought, but that just meant they hadn’t seen one another for quite some time. It made her feel lonelier than she had expected, especially since she hadn’t expected it at all.
Perhaps he’s in his room.
She looked at the stairs for a moment, the path to his personal quarters right in front of her and yet she hesitated to move. Mallnora only knew what Novix would tell her overall, but something she had come to understand completely is that his room was off limits. The door remained closed at all times. He never invited her in. Never let her in. Always closed it behind himself and even if he did not there was never a chance to look inside. It was almost as if he didn’t want her in there at all, but that just made her want to know what was inside even more.
After taking the first step the rest became easy, quickly making her way to the second floor where she would approach the door and stop just outside of it. It felt as if the air were stuck in her throat, another moment of hesitation as she lifted her hand only to watch it stop just before making contact. She looked down at her fingers, well taken care of and in proper condition. She took a deep breath before clutching her fist and tapping it against the entrance to his room, and when she received no answer, she would do so again. Once again... silence. With that confirmed, she would turn the door handle and peek her head in slowly.
“No-No? Are you in here?” she whispered until she had a clear sight inside. “Of course the lights are off.”
She reached inside, placing her hand on the light switch before realizing, through trial and error, that it didn’t work. With that she pushed the door open entirely, the moonlight which filled the main living area pouring into the room slightly to reveal the darkened silhouettes of things she could not properly visualize. That was when she noticed what looked like a classic lantern sitting on what looked like a desk in the corner of the room. She entered steadily, still unsure of if this were the right choice, but upon getting close enough to the lantern she would find a lighter at its side and put the item to proper use. The flame was dim, but more than enough to at least make things visible. That, however, was when she would come to see the makings of his room.
The walls were lined with pictures, but not just any pictures. War photos in black and white and some in color... his face could be seen in all of the groups. Where there weren’t pictures there were weapons that looked to be kept in decent condition. Swords, spears, shields, firearms, a plethora of things. Where there weren’t weapons there were helmets, some of which were stained with blood and others with bullet holes in them. Where there weren’t those there were dog tags, rings, earrings, watches. There were old and worn boots lining the walls, some of which looked as if they dated all the way back to the old wars. A room filled with mementos of those who had fallen in battle, and all of which she could only assume were his allies. Then, as if the area did not hold enough impact to begin with, she looked to the only area which held no items on the walls where a small table stood. Resting upon that table was none other than a purple and pink ribbon and resting on that an engraved ring.
“These are,” she spoke as she looked over the items, not daring to even touch the air around them. Her eyes settled on the words carved into the ring. “My belove’d Ingaki, I will never forget who you were... he brought these with him from the Dunes?”
She turned and looked around the room once more, a place which most people would mold into a sanctuary for their peace and rest. Instead, Novix had crafted it into a sanctuary of that which he had lost. It came as no wonder he was as protective of her as he was. Simply experiencing this place was enough to exhaust her; the weight of his mementos bearing down on her like a waterfall of souls which clung to their belongings. She backed away from the desk until she found herself bumping into his bed, the only thing in the room which looked to be from the modern age. Covered in comfortable blankets which were sprawled about as if to make a mound of comfort. Just being near it overwhelmed her senses with his presence, but he wasn’t there. She found herself placing her hand amongst the soft pile.
I know I shouldn’t, I don’t think he would be pleased if he ever discovered anything about this... but perhaps just this once?
She leaned forward, falling face first into the fluff which lied before her. It was better than she had expected, warmer than she had expected, more comforting than she had expected. Had she become so dependent on him that this had become a pleasure of sorts? Drowning herself in his spirit, his scent, his aura? She curled up into the blankets much like a child would, the euphoria like a cloud whisking her into a form of misconduct she was not used to.
“What am I doing?” Mallnora questioned herself as her face turned a bright red. “No-No would no doubt laugh at me if he ever saw me like this.”
The words slipped her lips, the thought filled her mind, and yet she could not pull herself from where she now was. Wondering if this were how Novix felt whenever he was in this room or possibly a feeling even stronger. Everything felt so heavy, and her thoughts were quickly replaced with that of another question that she would never be capable of asking for now, a thought that would itch in the back of her mind as she dozed off into sleep... is this why I never see him sleep in here?
---
The sound of a door shutting caused her eyes to open quickly, a sharp breath filling her lungs as she looked about her surroundings. She could hear them clear as day, the footsteps now moving about the first floor of Novix’s apartment which made her question if he had arranged for food to arrive, but as the footsteps moved about, she could tell that was not the case. It was him, the rhythm of his movements the same as she had come to memorize, but something was wrong.
“What am I doing?” she whispered as she rose to her feet quietly and moved to put out the lantern.
She listened carefully as she approached the door. She could hear what sounded like droplets hitting the floor, unsteady breathes, and in a matter of moments following the sound of shattering glass flushed out the silence with a rush of wind. Shortly after that she could hear long and heavy breathing along with the continued wind now flowing through the apartment. She opened the door slowly, careful to not make a sound as she closed it behind herself, but she stopped as he came into sight. He stood motionless, looking out the now broken window into the night sky. His shirt was torn and dirty, pants worn around the ankles and in the same condition, but she could not focus on those things for long. Her eyes were entirely drawn in by his hair, still tied back into a pony tail and yet burning a red so hot in the wind like a solar flare.
Before she could even conclude what was happening, she could feel her hands shaking. This was a first, seeing him like this, but it was far more intense than she had expected. It almost felt as if she were playing with life and death simply being there. Had she made a mistake coming here when she did? Entering his room without his permission? It only took a few moments resting on the thought before she began making her way down the stairs slowly. If she could learn more about him then there was no mistake to be made. Not even now. There had to be a trigger, something which caused him to end up like this; in this state. Now she would aim to find it to the best of her abilities. It was this resolve which only had her stop a few steps behind him.
“No-No?” she spoke to which she could see his head turn ever so slightly before spinning around entirely. His eyes were the exact same color as his hair, and with them locked onto her alone it felt as if she were standing right before the surface of the sun; yet there was no heat. There was a smile which looked almost terrifyingly engrossed in happiness, but his eyes told an entirely different story as they locked onto her like a feral animal's. “What happened to you?”
For the briefest moment she attempted her ability on instinct, as if her body were telling her that this situation was beyond dangerous. What lied behind those eyes however, that was an entirely different beast. She didn’t see a single action, but multiple. It was as if she were looking into the mind of someone who held onto multiple beings. Multiple souls in one, and yet that was not possible. One outcome had him flee, the other had him fall into a state of despair, one had him begging her for support, and the one she feared the most saw herself helplessly splattered against the wall in a manner she could not possibly defend herself against; by way of raw violence. The action he went with in the end was one she had not focused on at all once met with the other.
“Mallnora... I didn’t know you were here,” he spoke whilst attempting to quell his smile as much as he could. “Let me get you something to drink.”
She looked at him as if she were prepared to burst into tears, a sight he had taken note of. The cause being that violent fate she might have suffered, but she could not understand why it was. However, it was simply due to being faced with a death she had no way out of. Coming to the realization that she had found herself in a situation that could have ended her entirely and there was nothing she could do to stop it. Fate deciding whether she lived or died, and she found herself taking fast and heavy breaths just to balance herself out. Dreadfully coming to terms with her life being a single choice away from vanishing.
I’ve never been so afraid in my life... not even when face to face with the ancients. They at least know subtlety, mercy, reason. I don’t even know any cold-blooded killers capable of so much brutality. How could Novix be capable of such-
She stopped herself, remembering that he had told her about it in the past. The source of his violence and why it existed to begin with. What its purpose was. She remembered just how his trust worked and what it meant to be his ally. He was more than capable of that level of violence and she should expect that there was far more than where that came from. Even still, Mallnora could not remove the thought from her mind. That outcome she saw within her predictions which saw him attack. Saw his hand come in her direction at a speed and angle she could not properly evade with her capabilities. Saw it impact with her body and the sheer force alone tore through her flesh and bones as if she did not exist. Saw her flesh and blood paint the walls around them. Saw the look of regret in his eyes after doing it.
“Here,” Novix’s voice pulled her from outside of her own mind. She looked at him for a moment before feeling her stomach turn, the effects of her thoughts finally catching up with her as she almost vomited on the floor, yet quelled it by drinking down the entire beverage. “That should help clear your mind a bit.”
She gasped for air, only now realizing how much she had been sweating when the cool air hit her skin and she registered the sensation. Of course he had given her alcohol, and something far stronger than what she would normally drink, but it was certainly helping. She raised one of her hands from the glass to her face, but paused just before touching her skin when she noticed it was covered in thick crimson. It was then she looked at his hands and noticed how she could spot the white of his bare knuckles through his skin.
“You’re hurt,” she spoke as she made her way to the kitchen and washed her hands.
“Oh, this?” he raised his hands and examined them. “This is nothing. I can take care of this.”
“No... I will do it.”
“It’s fine, Mallnora. I’ve taken care of injuries like this before. Besides, I’m sure there’s work to be done. I will handle this and you can explain the details to me while I do.”
“No!” she shouted to which his attention was entirely obtained. “You are hurt and we will fix that. You take care of me all the time... the least I could do is take care of you for once.”
---
Novix sat on the couch, the lights now dimly lit in his home, the window covered by a large tarp which he had in his possession. His hair continued to shine red and orange, as did his eyes as they focused on his hands which continued to bleed onto a towel which had been positioned on his lap. He could not focus, almost as if his thoughts were in a constant state of mixed reliability. He placed his fingers together and focused his eyes on that, attempting to make himself whole.
“How does it feel?” Mallnora spoke as she sat at his side with a bucket full of water and an assortment of things.
“It stings a bit, but nothing too serious.”
“This only stings a bit? I thought it was crazy when you survived falling out of that building, but you’re tougher than you look.”
“I don’t look tough?” he spoke as he watched her dip the towel into the water and wring it out.
“You are certainly intimidating, but you don’t look like the type to fight the way you do. Then again, if you did look like your average tough guy your personality wouldn’t fit you at all.”
He watched as Mallnora proceeded to clean his wounds with the damp towel, watching as the blood and water dripped down from his hands and into the small bucket positioned between them. This was new. He couldn’t recall a time in which she had ever tended to his injuries, but here she was doing it right now. One hand holding his own steady as the other attentively made certain the wounds were properly cared for. Now that he thought about it, this was the first time he had ever felt her hands like this. They were soft, delicate, nothing like the way she treated others. Entirely fitting her demeanor. He could easily describe her as a poisonous flower. She had almost made it a habit of going out of her way to avoid touching his hands, but now here she was doing so of her own volition.
“I’m sorry for this, Mallnora.”
“Don’t be. If you can take care of me then it is only right that I do the same. We are partners, aren’t we?” the question caused him to look at her. She was entirely focused on her current work, orange eyes looking at his hands. “I can do this much.”
Once the wounds were cleaned, she applied medication in an equally delicate and attentive manner. Then, when she made certain it was all in order, she would begin wrapping bandages around his knuckles until his wounds were covered and cared for. He clutched his fists multiple times, looking at his hands as others would examine a gun or a sword before placing them in his lap.
“I really am sorry, Mallnora.”
“I told you that you don’t have to-”
“I do,” he spoke quickly. “You looked at them, didn’t you? My next actions? You saw them with your power. I know you did.”
“I... I did.”
“I’m sorry. I’m certain you saw something you didn’t want to see. It was not my intention to have you see me like this.”
“Tell me what happened,” her words felt as if there were traces of fear behind them. As if deep down she did not want to learn what it was she was asking. “Explain it to me, why I saw what I saw. I want to know, No-No.”
“Alright. Although it will be a rather short explanation, I hope you’ll be happy with it,” he started as he leaned back on the couch. He looked at Mallnora again, but she was reluctant to look him in the eye. Of course she would be. “My mind, I had to change it in order to make High Violence work. To use it properly in combat I had to be willing to cast off the shackles which held me back, and in doing so I had to isolate what makes me as ferocious as can be and use it. It ended with my mind being splintered. You were seeing the results of that.”
“So, it was like looking at every action you might take based on different parts of your mind... the most violent ones included.”
“I would never let that happen to you, Mallnora! You’re my ally, my companion, my friend! I could see it too. What my mind was attempting to have me act out, but I will never do something like that. Not to you!”
“Then prove it.”
“What?” Novix watched she turned and looked directly at him with a reddened face.
“If you mean it, then prove it,” she spoke as she turned in his direction and began encroaching on his position. He could only lean back as she steadily made her way over him in a manner he could not react to so suddenly. “You say we’re allies, companions... friends... prove it to me. Right here, right now.”
“I don’t know what you’re talking about Mallnora,” he spoke as his eyes grew wide.
“Stop calling me that!” she spoke as her face hovered closer to his. “That's not what you call me, No-No.”
“It’s,” he paused as he could smell the liquor on her breathe and smiled with a chuckle. “I get it, I get it. We’re certainly friends, Mal.”
“Good! And don’t ever forget it.” She finally relented in the only way she possibly could. Falling face first onto his chest and squirming about like a child. “You’re so damn warm, and you smell so good... sun claimants are the best.”
Novix couldn’t help but laugh as he watched the girl act out in a state she normally would never allow. He had noticed she only ever took drinks in small amounts and rarely ever chose to drink more than your average wine or light beverages. She chose to drink down what he had offered her, but it was certainly too much for the woman to handle. The situation itself was just enough to have his hair and eyes fade back to their original colors as he smiled contently. He didn’t mind this simple peace, even if it were only temporary. He certainly didn’t mind getting to see Mallnora like this. It only made him want to spoil her more than he already did as he patted her head. However, she fell asleep as soon as he started to do just that. He was content upon realizing that her previous panic had faded away.
“I know, I know. I am pretty awesome... and I’ll never forget. You’re my partner after all, Mal.”
Stupid No-No and your stupid jokes! Making me say stuff like this, making me sound like an idiot. Making me... so helpless when I’m around you. What's happening to me?
---
Her eyes opened slowly; vision blurred as she pressed her lips together. She attempted to recall what had happened as the sunlight filled the surrounding area, but the memories were flowing in at a snail’s pace. She hated drinking too much, hated being drunk, hated not being able to focus and yet it was the realization that she had been intoxicated past normal levels which hastily reminded her of what had happened to cause it. Remembering the events of the previous night as a slight flustered feeling grew by every passing second, the scent of honeycomb filling her nose in overbearing doses as Mallnora concluded that she was still in Novix’s home. That was the moment she attempted to lift herself up only to find her hands pressed against a sturdy yet soft foundation.
“Warm... warm?” she spoke to herself as she looked up to find that Novix hadn’t even moved! Why did he choose to remain in the same position? For what?! “No-No!”
“Mm, five more minutes,” his words followed by his arms falling from above his head and down over her back.
“Stop talking in your sleep and let go of me!” she spoke as she confirmed his arms now holding her in position.
“The coffee smells nice,” he responded with a ridiculous smile. Words which only made the situation even more embarrassing for her.
“Novix Excia, if you don’t wake up this instant, I swear on all things sacred I will end you myself! Get up!” Mallnora looked up at his face as his brow furrowed before his eyes opened as if there were no problems at all. Looking at her stuck in place on his person with a sincere smile that she found herself vexingly pissed at. Mainly because she could not remain mad at it.
“Hey Mal. Did you sleep well?” he asked to which she lowered her head. A mistake which once again filled her senses with his scent.
“Novix...”
“Yeah?”
“If you would be so kind as to let go of me... I would greatly appreciate that.”
He looked at her for a moment, then took note of the situation they were in himself. He hadn’t even realized how much strength he was putting into his hold on her and followed up with the only reaction one could expect from him... a laugh which echoed throughout the room. He relinquished his grip on her to which she pushed herself up as soon as she was able. He watched as she rose to her feet wobblily, clearly still feeling the effects of the alcohol from the night before, but she managed to steady herself easy enough. She took a deep breath, her flushed face returning to the base color it normally had.
“Are you good? You looked like you were having a bit of trouble there,” Novix spoke as he lifted himself to a seated position.
“I am, good...”
“Interesting. You can use my shower if you want, it’ll probably help with your hangover.”
“Noted,” she spoke in a plain tone. “I shall return home then.”
“What are you talking about?” he spoke as he rose to his feet and walked across the room to the kitchen. “Just use mine. I have to go out for a bit anyway. Besides, you came here yesterday because you had something to tell me, right?”
“Indeed, we do have something to discuss, but I have no clothes here-”
“Just wear some of mine. We’re almost the same height anyway.”
Does he even know what he’s saying?! Does he ever know what he's saying?!
“I don’t think I should-”
“It’s fine, really. I’ll be back in a bit. Just take your time!” he spoke as he quickly placed his shoes onto his feet and exited the building.
It barely took any time at all for him to go about handling his business, and by the time he had managed to return he found Mallnora to be gone. Where she had gone, he had no idea, but upon taking a shower of his own and proper grooming he would emerge to find her back in his home and awaiting him on the couch. This was the first time he had ever seen her without her hair done, the short blonde strands still damp with some sticking to her neck. This was also the first time he had seen her without the fanciest formal wear she could muster. Then again, he had to remember that this was the first time he had seen her in quite some time. While she looked relaxed on the outside, her demeanor showed that she was still the same person, proper posture and formal etiquette at its prime.
“Why aren’t you wearing a shirt?” she questioned him as he stepped down the stairs.
“I didn’t think you’d be back. I thought you had gone to get your own clothes or something, so I planned on relaxing while you did that.”
“If it was unintentional then stop proceeding down the stairs and go put on a shirt!” she exclaimed which only caused him to laugh.
“It’s not that big of a deal.”
“Anyway, I wasn’t going to go around naked, and I was already wearing this so I ordained to not change clothes. I simply went to drop off my own clothing and brush my teeth, as I was trying to tell you I did not have the tools to do so here.”
“Ah, that was my bad,” he spoke as he walked into the kitchen and reached into the fridge before making his way over to her and offering a small can. “It’s an iced coffee, I know you like these things.”
“Thank you. I appreciate it,” she spoke as she opened the can and sipped from its contents.
“So... I didn’t expect you to choose such a comfy set of clothes from my things.”
“What? Did you expect something different?! You quite literally own nothing but clothes to lounge around in! That and casual wear that you’d never catch me wearing.”
“So, you stuck with the sweat pants and tank top?” he spoke with a chuckle. “It looks good on you.”
“Don’t make fun of me,” she spoke as she sipped more of her coffee.
This situation, this odd situation, somehow, she found herself at odds with how comfortable it was. Novix clearly was as relaxed as could be and carelessly went on as he always did, as if he had no sense of embarrassment or knowledge of how to conduct himself when around guests. However, Mallnora knew all too well that he was always like this. No matter how much time passed he seemed to always remain the same as he was when they first met. Considerate in his own way, as if caring to a fault yet without caring about the things which could go ignored. He could forget to wear his shoes or bring his weapons when they go to handle work, but if she managed to obtain the slightest scratch, he refused to let it slip his mind and would turn the realms on their heads just to apply a bandage.
It only made the events of the previous night more concerning. Had he been holding back a nature like that this entire time? She had looked into his eyes with intent to see his actions in the past, but it had never been anything like what that was. It made her question if it were even possible to properly read his mind. If, in the right situation, someone would find themself wading through the makeshift mind of several distinct personalities. He had only referred to certain outcomes when he spoke with her about it, but she knew personally that there were others he did not bring up. Attempting to register his actions were like facing a pack of wild hounds in the dark. You know they’re there, but you can’t possibly discern just how many are there.
What am I doing? None of those matters. He assured me that I would not have to worry about it so I will not spend the energy attempting to. I just need to trust him. Trust him as I always have... but can he really be trusted when he’s like that?
“Mal?” his voiced shocked her out of her thoughts as she jumped in place. “Are you alright?”
“Y-yes, apologies. I am fine... anyway, it’s time we discuss what I had come here for.”
“Work, right? If you needed to explain something to me in person then it must be pretty serious,” he spoke to which Mallnora shook her head.
“While it is serious, that is not the reason I came here.” Mallnora crossed her legs as she placed the can down onto the coffee table. “I’ve completed all of the preparations that were required, and wanted to thank you personally for all of your hard work. I know I’ve been having you do most of the heavy lifting alone. However, the time for that has ended. It is time for us to move. Not only that, but we will be accompanied by an assigned third who I have yet to meet.”
“We’re being given a new partner?”
“No, not like that. More like a temporary ally... I’ve given you bits and pieces of information, but it is time I explain the entirety of this job to you in full. Now that I have all of the information, we will be moving tonight.”
Name: Novix
Other Names: No-No, Vera Violentiam
House: Excia
Age: Around 1400 Years
Gender: Male
Relationship Status: Single
Sexuality: Heterosexual
Personality: Extroverted, Introverted, Meticulous, Inhibited, Volatile, Oversensitive, (Temperamental)
Weapon: Fang, Claws, War Wings
Abilities: While Novix is a Sun claimant, his abilities have very little to do with the elements involved. Relying heavily on physical strength and mental fortitude/degradation as a means to tap into his latent elemental prowess.
Thermonuclear Body: Abnormally high physical prowess and durability. Capable of absorbing heavy damage with little reaction, although this does not nullify the damage received. And he is not invincible. His strength is capable of reaching extraordinary heights and his speed, while high, does not reach the same capabilities as his physical strength.
Solar Garden: When imagining his mind, it is best to imagine rays of the sun. Splitting off in varying directions and yet connected at its center. A self-council which is made up of his own mind yet active at all times. Much like intrusive thoughts, the aspects of his personality will consistently voice themselves in his head considering the stimuli he absorbs, but this also means he is constantly attempting to keep those voices in check. (While he believes it to personally have been caused by his own actions, it is actually due to this ability itself. Having once been a reliable ray of light, now an abstract source of violently blazing flame.)
Bloodbath Sun: [Redacted]
[Redacted information to be later revealed]
