Chapter Nineteen: Figuring Things Out

********

Sparks flew as the two forces clashed. Ditto's Ever Heart and small knife didn't wilt under the pressure of Nethi's twin blue-flamed swords. Watching with the intent of ignorance, I couldn't help but feel shame at the magi not winning the fight. Ditto kept on pushing, using a skill in swordsmanship that even a trained, hardened magi was finding difficult to keep up with.

The people behind us had said something about Jacro's personal guard being some of the best magi in the land. They were considered near the top of the Forged Guard, killing many demons, a few even rumored they've taken on class two demons. That's no easy feat.

While everyone focused on the match - which I must admit serves no real purpose - Jacro was clearly not having a good time. He and his guard were staying silent, off to the side, frowning. What was he thinking? This should have ended minutes ago? What if she actually loses? That would be hard to explain to his superiors.

The soldiers of the stadium fought on, and Halina's predictions were proving very much true. The drops of blood now covered the elementals entire heads, with Ditto's magic making them clutch at their faces. I don't know what his plan was, but it was proving more powerful than earth magic.

After a well placed kick, Ditto spoke for the first time in what seemed like forever. "Huh. I thought this would be more challenging. Tell me Nethi, are you holding back? Or is this all I get to see?"

Nethi wasn't having any of it. "Disgusting Necromancer. Don't speak to me."

"Make me. It's not my fault you're as easy to read as a book." He pointed his sword at her. "Insults won't make the victory come easy. I've faced many battles. What have you faced child? Demons? Is that all you magi can do? Fight demons? You're all so pathetic. Call me disgusting? You can't even see what's behind you."

Distraction. The two elementals brought their fists down, causing Nethi to retreat even further from Ditto. He laughed, flicking a wrist, sending the earth soldiers after her.

Haggar scowled. "How the fuck did he gain control of her elementals? With blood? Is that even possible?"

"Beats me," Katlen said. "It sure looks that way. I'm even confused. The Dark magics are beyond my knowledge."

"But you'd think Nethi would know how to fight those," replied Haggar. "She's trained. She's a hardened veteran. Wouldn't you understand Dark magics better than anyone?"

"You're wrong," I said. "We've pushed most Dark users away, either to Earth or the Dark layer. We teach how to protect yourselves from certain categories, but practice means nothing without real experience. He's a necromancer. But he's not using necromancy. Why?"

The question was quickly answered.

"Coward! Why not use necromancy?" cried Nethi. She ran in a panic, sending fire and earth at her former soldiers. Her attacks appeared to be doing nothing. I was unsure if this was Ditto's power, or Nethi's well built elementals. "Are you scared?"

"Scared?" Ditto cocked his head, while going in for another strike. "Trust me magi, you wouldn't stand a chance against necromancy. Not even a slight one. I figured you'd want to at least show your boss that you aren't worthless in a fight."

Trust me magi. I hissed a breath. How can he be so confident? Where does it come from? He has no right. He has no place. Not in this world. Not in this Layer.

"Damn. I wish we could have bet." Halina sat forward with head in hands. "This is getting good."

Nethi managed to block an earth fist and Ditto's blade once again. She summoned fire, ringing it around her arms in a beautiful display of skill. She shot a stream into her once soldier.

That's when Ditto moved past her attack, her blades, and had a hand around her neck. He smiled. "And she falls with grace. Sorry love, it's been fun."

He threw her down hard, and sheathed his weapon. The elementals fell to dust, and he came back. There was no more smile. Just shoulders held high.

Jumping up and climbing over the railing, he did little at the boo's. "Alright Halina. Let's leave."

"Aren't you worried?"

He shrugged. "Nah."

They left, while Jacro went back out with a grin. "Let's continue with the presentation, shall we?"

XXXX

"I feel as though that's not what you wanted from all this," Halina commented as we walked through the city once again. "You could have said no."

"And where would we be?" I fought the urge to look over my shoulder. I've now exposed myself to a large crowd of people, who know I exist in full form. Sad, really. They should've already known. "Look, the magi are........ignorant. To many things. The Pillar, however, are very awake to certain issues. I have no doubt in my mind they know I'm here. Watching me. With great unease. But I refuse to sit and let the idiots claim to be powerful. Jacro? Just a man with a purpose. Me? A lone man with none. How can they even compare to myself? Who's to blame for the faults of plans and disagreements? I've no time for weakness I can't exploit."

"Careful what you say. I feel their anger rising."

"Good. Let the pain of screams rise with a hubris. If it can even be matched with mine."

Halina rubbed her nose, as though taking away a feeling of regret. Was that me? "Where we going?"

"To a Call Station. Normal cell phone receptions can't travel between Layers. So there are designated places that have strong signals leaking through to Earth. Very complex and impressive stuff."

"Oh. I can call Nicki then?"

"Yes," I said. "Though why is beyond me."

"Because we're dating."

"Odd answer."

She pfted. "Don't bring up the order of relationships with me. You, who hooks up with prostitutes."

"Yeah? Nothing wrong with getting like that. Sometimes, you need a release from reality only found in a paid bed."

"Quit humiliating yourself. This isn't a joke you know. I miss her."

I stopped at the edge of a street, waving my hand for a taxi. "And I miss Spot. Don't fucking tell me how to feel emotions."

Halina frowned. What, had the thought not occurred to her? How.......human. "You Hidden are hard to figure out. Emotions almost seem a nuisance to you."

"Not emotions, just what they mean."

A cab came, a golden filigree vehicle, with it's copper frame curling with an air-like grace. I opened the door, and let the writer in first. After telling the magi where we needed to go, Halina went on. "So what do they mean?"

"We can be so easily controlled by the feelings in our heads. Weak, but it can't be avoided."

"God, how can you live like that?"

I laughed. "Well, it's not easy. That's for sure. But hey, why live easy?"

Halina faced forward, like how the humans do in such eagerness when a crisis happens. Ah, I ever so love the humans simple line of thought. Their willingness to see the future as a unpredictable, unchangeable force. You only live one life, yes? What's there not worth sacrificing with it? If you aren't willing to find the path that the future you believe holds, then you are mere sheep, following the fluffy tail with the complete intent of going somewhere better. I've never seen such inability to think than with you humans. What picture is bigger to you than dying in hopes you had success?

I've had dreams with more integrity.

"Why did you fight that Nethi? Everyone was saying you shouldn't have beaten her. Something about being a Forged Guard and all."

I shivered a little. "Trust me, it was for the better of the cause."

"What cause is that? You could have lost."

"Ha! Wasn't going to happen. The most a magi ever fights is a demon. And other magi." I paused a moment. "Well, mainly Light Layer magi. And when believing you fight a demon, the approach to beating them is simple; just be faster, stronger, and not do anything a real demon would do."

"But you just fought like normal," she said, trying to grasp my meaning. "What's so special about that?"

"Exactly."

She grimaced. "Do not think for a moment you are able to not lose."

Please. I'm not that deep in myself. "I'm always knowing I can. I've lost plenty of battles in my life. The secret is to pretend they didn't phase you."

"Look, I'm sorry I insulted your feelings. Leave me alone," she said. "I just want to talk to my girlfriend."

"You will, don't worry. Nothing is certain, but the trust of love however is."

Now I got a laugh. "Stop mocking me. I'm a romantic, I know. Doesn't mean I can't believe."

I tried to smile at that. I really did. Yet, I couldn't help but let my own words come back and slap me in the face. Those we lose are the monuments of our sins. Packed so Goddamn high there's no finding the safe earth.

"I wish for the same hopes. Though I can never doubt the truth."

Halina smirked, reading my mind play as day. "Give yourself a break. We humans aren't all that bad."

"No. You are. I'm just a party of pity. Please, do look away."

"For a good price."

The cab stopped. I opened the door. "Oops, looks like negotiating will have to wait."

Call Stations, if one is willing to dream for more than the future, is that of a giant conductor. By this I mean there is a very tall antenna planted on the roof of this building, with pipes of blue and gold magic running into a giant blue and gold ball caged within. I stretched really quickly, paid the driver, and walked up to the building.

Paying for two entrance codes, we went in.

I smelled the air. It was like coffee and aspirations. A clean and relaxing lounge area, I took a seat while Halina went up and got two coffee's. Other magi and non magi were making calls or using laptops to make emails, enjoying the nice day.

"So, how does this work?" Halina asked on her return.

"You type in the code onto your phone or electronic device, and make your calls. Basically just paying for a wifi code." I drank my coffee. Yum, delicious.

"Interesting. Then I'll be busy. Please, refrain from needing me for five or ten minutes."

Nodding, I watched her sit a few feet away. Ah, young love, something I used to wish for when I was a child. Oh, how plans change when nothing works the way you want it.

Getting out my own phone, I called Sasha.

"Ditto. You're alive."

"Thanks," I said. "I need an update."

She sighed. "Not good. At all. Water District, I've secured enough for the moment. Though Eastern Michigan City is giving me trouble."

"And the not good part?"

"South Swamp District has ignited the flames of war. Eastern Coast District the target."

"Crap. Crap, crap, crap." I wondered if Florida would start the trouble. Or South Carolina. "What's the damage?"

"Accusations of robbing them of trade tariffs. Virginia Beach City was nearly burned down. Heroes and civilians. Panic at the highest degree."

"Angels Sasha? What of the angels?"

"Nothing. Not yet."

I sighed, the breath taking it's leave in an orderly fashion. "I'm making progress. I've found what I'm looking for. I need more time though. Look, I'm not sure what the game is yet."

"I got your mercenaries here. True, their prices are high, but we're making do."

"What about National? Civil war isn't taken lightly."

"Ditto, you know the answer as I do. There's no standing army. And they haven't moved to action."

I wanted to scream. I so wanted to scream. Yet I can't.

Sad.

"Fuck. Fine. I'm making some emails Sasha. I'm crippling those districts. You tell Fina that she is to return to Lake City. And Buddy. These fanatics will do whatever is necessary to win."

"I'm aware. Hurry up down there. We won't last a month. Maybe a few weeks if we're lucky."

"Yes, I'll go as fast as I can. Hang in there. The wrath of the Necromancer will be unveiled eventually."

She chuckled, then hung up. I got onto my email, and found the contact I needed.

Hey Jack,

Ditto here. Look, I need a favor or two. There are some councillors I need killed. The District Councillors for South Swamp District and Eastern Coast District. Take away as many favors as needed. And send me the damn receipt.

--Love, Ditto.

I got a reply rather quickly.

Ditto, you dirty bastard. Apparently you must have had a hand in this shit show. Sure. How many you need killed?

--Jack

I thought a moment.

All of them

--Ditto

There's no time to figure out who's on who's side up there. I can't waste effort and energy saving one or two innocent lives. Purging it all will give me at least some wiggle room for stalling the Witch, and possible replacing her followers with my own.

Fine. That's a hefty tag though, so don't be surprised at the bill.

--Jack

Whatever. Just do it mate. I've got other business now, so I'll talk to you later. Email me the results.

--Ditto

Meh. What can you do? Like I've said before, the Layers have done nothing for me. And I'm going to war. Time to start acting like a man with a plan that will win.

Besides.

Who'll miss those few men and women?

********

"Maybe you should reconsider letting the man think his mind," Haggar noted as we headed for the center of campus. After we had left, people were stuck between two moods. Loud excitement for the General and his program, the lust for blood and his promises. And the whispers of the Necromancer defeating a magi in what was not even a contest. None were saying that part clearly, more like a lost memory which just appeared today.

"I cannot control what fears nothing."

"Then give him something to fear," Katlen said, distracted by a dog running by. "You'd be surprise how much scares me."

"Yeah, a bug scares you Katlen. You're the least helpful person in this situation." Haggar waved at some fellow professors. They waved back, not looking at me. "They're pissed at you Ursula, that you'd take on such a project."

I didn't stop moving. "It's becoming more clear that we are not as strong as we appear."

"No, it's becoming clear that we need to get lunch. I'm starving," Katlen said. The sight around us was fascinating to watch. So many students going on with their lives as though the earth-shattering event didn't just fall before their eyes.

I ignored everything else. The breeze was fine, in fact I let that in. It brought the smell of flowers. Oh, the flowers know the answers. More than magi. They laugh and laugh, more like giggling really. The breeze touched my skin, sending hairs on end. My dress felt smooth against my body, better than physical contact. When does anything make sense?

"So Ursula, what do you want to eat?" asked Haggar, who almost grabbed my shoulder, before quickly retracting his hand. "What's today? Kinday?"

"Soup. Tomato in particular."

"Ah, I love soup. Mainly on cold days." Haggar motioned at the sun. "Yet it's so freaking hot. You know, I hear it's rather cold in some places on Earth this time of year."

"Really? I also hear the humans have ruined their climate," Katlen replied.

"This is a fact," I said, pushing up my glasses. "After much pollution, the humans have destroyed their atmosphere to nearly no return. Shame, really, they can't solve the problem themselves."

"And the Hidden let this happen?"

I shrugged. "I've read reports the Hidden have left the humans to their own devices, and to sink in their own oceans."

"Sad," Katlen laughed. We went by trees and more art pieces, the courtyard always well decorated and presentable. "The humans will die without oxygen. They know this right?"

"Apparently not, since they're continuing their actions."

"Ugh, the humans are only good for their technology," Haggar said. "I admit, I do love the computer."

Taking a path past the courtyard buildings, we were heading for the restaurant that I eat at on Kinday. The small shop had an outside portion, and we sat down, waiting for our server.

"How they managed to survive, and the necromancers didn't is beyond me," Katlen said. She flashed me a smile. "Though maybe you could shed some light on that."

I was about to speak when our waiter arrived. After we all ordered, I cleared my throat. Oh, that was uncomfortable. "What would you have me say? He'll die eventually?"

"Not encouraging."

I took in the smells. So many fragrances, soups, spices, city air. I once again readjusted my glasses. "I'm sorry you're not encouraged. There's really little I can say. Necromancers used to live about the same length as magi. Maybe about ten years less. I'd say he'll make the most of his--"

There, across the patio was the dark magi who greeted me those few days ago. She was looking at the menu, then glanced at me, a hard gleam in her eye. Frozen in speech, the others seemed off balanced.

"Uh, Ursula, you okay?" Haggar waved a hand. "You stopped there for a moment."

I clicked my pen rapidly. Taking deep breaths, I dragged my eyes away. "Yes, I'm fine. Just a random thought. Don't worry."

I couldn't read their faces. And as our drinks were brought to us, the dark magi stood, going inside the restaurant. I got up as well. "Excuse me, I need to use the restroom."

Following the dark magi, I watched as she actually went into the bathroom. She left the door open, to which I entered and closed it quickly. Rounding, she had her arms crossed, an attitude crossing her lips.

"Hello Ursula. Good thing you're smart, or else I'd been angry." Her voice was still cold and smooth. My attention focused on her chest and pretty necklace again. More cleavage this time around.

"I don't wish to upset the Pillar."

Her hands went up, and I barely say her tuck back her black hair. Matching nail polish too. Is this a mood indicator, or was she merely dressing for taste?

"While I'm glad that's the case, I must admit we are not pleased about this morning's events," she said. The woman took a step closer. "So I want an update. Now."

"What do you want to know?"

She frowned. Was that not correct to say? "Anything dammit!"

I tapped my lip. Oh, how tricky the situation. "You mentioned weaknesses before? He's attached to a human he brought with him. He cares for her."

"Really? That is useful information," she replied, clicking her nails together. "Go on. The Pillar wants anything."

"He's got skills in a fight. I'd say he's far more dangerous than the Pillar believes him to be. In fact, I'd highly recommend not engaging him. Now or ever."

The magi gave me a sad face, then a 'tisk tisk'. "Leave stuff like that to us. Though we're not ready yet to deal with him."

My mind was wrapped in thought. There was that night at the library. Where he exposed himself in the most arrogant of ways. The most outlandish of lists, the most silly of folly. Were I him, I'd have kept removed, stayed hidden, let things be. Can I truly try and predict the outcome of this entire game?

"There's something else. Ditto believes himself to be the fifth strongest creature alive at the moment. I do not know what has brought this thought, but it is a slap to the Pillar."

"Oh, that damn man. Yes, I agree that is most definitely a problem." She reached out, a hand touching my chin. I found myself frozen again. Her power scared me. "He cannot be allowed to get what he wants. Mother doesn't like him. What to do, what to do."

Mother? I wouldn't think someone's mother would be concerned with a death raiser, but what do I know? Sometimes people are interested in the strangest things.

"Ursula dear, has he mentioned his plans down here?"

"No. Not really."

"I wish you to find those out. I want his actions laid out for me in the bare open." The dark magi let her hands light up with navy blue fire. What magic is that? Oh, I wish we paid more attention to what we ignored. "Trust me, whatever lie he's told you, it's far from the truth."

"And what is the truth?" I asked. To bold Ursula, but what can you do?

She laughed. "If I had to guess, war. War woman, and he's the herald."

War? That.....doesn't sound right. What war? With who?

I shivered, and as the dark magi walked around me and left, I couldn't help but feel cheated.

Herald. The ageless term for messenger. He leads the cause.

He brings war, and when has a Necromancer ever cared about the death toll?