They answered him with calm, but slightly tired looks. Finally, Nidor got up from his chair.
“If it relieves your conscience a bit,” he said, walking up to a bookstand, “then know that those guys were already dead.” He opened one of the cabinets, dug around for a moment, and took two folders out. “Just like me and Vesper. Here.” He handed Crumbly the documents.
He took them in silence, then began to look over the papers slowly, attentively. The silence continued.
Vesper closed his eyes. He remembered his own picture, and how he lay on the ground, in a pool of blood.
“When you get the Second Chance,” he said slowly, “the rules of the game change. And nothing is as obvious as before. There is no black and white, no absolute good or plain evil.”
“Quit fucking bullshitting, all right?” Crumbly growled, looking up from the files. “You claim I could kill you here and now, and have no stain on my conscience, no regrets? Because, technically, you’re dead already anyway... Jerzy Arlecki!” He raised one of the photos and waved it angrily.
“Exactly,” Vesper replied calmly. “You can kill me, whenever you want. Some would see it as a very good deed. Worthy of all praise and admiration.” He glanced at Nidor, who nodded to the rhythm of his words, then went back to look at the suddenly dumbfounded Crumbly. “Because you’d kill a vampire... and we’re cursed. By God and people, isn’t that right?”
The A-T gulped, not saying anything.
“Because, what are we doing here anyway? Us, the evil children of darkness?” Vesper continued thoughtfully. “We fight for life, directed by a simple, animalistic will to survive, right? And that’s all, that’s it? In that case, there’s no point in helping us, not at all. We’re no different than the renegades.”
He got up, and walked over to Crumbly in two, slow steps. He leaned over him and stared him straight in the eyes.
“A few lords imagined, some time ago, that maybe our existence had meaning too,” he said slowly through his teeth. “There are scientists, smiths, and artists among us. How often it happens that an unusual human mind dies, before it can fully use the knowledge it gathered over so many years. Or it degenerates into Alzheimer’s babble. But what if it got one more chance, if it simply got the time it needed? Would the fruit of that labor be useful to others as well... what’d you think?”
“Well, right,” the other admitted reluctantly. “Right.”
“So, we believe that we also have our place in this world,” the nighter said, straightening up. “And we could use it for good. For the benefit of all interested.”
“Having eternity at your disposal...” Crumbly broke off for a moment, then finished forcefully, “You could gain control over the whole world, isn’t that right?” He looked up at Vesper challengingly.
“Yes and no,” the other answered. “Because, yes we are nearly eternal, or at least long-lived. But take note of this, we don’t multiply, there are no little vampire kids. Each one of us was a human once, and in a way stays that way. So whose control would it be, really? People who decided to live differently than others would have that control. And I guarantee you, we don’t take just anybody into our midst. The lords and the Capitol watch over that. That’s how it is.”
The human fell silent, assuming a very unsure expression. He was obviously tormented by many doubts.
“Think of it this way,” Nidor, who had been silent for some time, said. “You invented a drug granting immortality. But it has serious side effects. Difficulty controlling aggression, infertility... what do you do with it? Give it to everyone, and whatever happens, happens? Or destroy it, so you don’t tempt fate? Hmm?”
The A-T sighed heavily, and shook his head.
“I don’t know,” he stated helplessly. “Damn it, I don’t know. Maybe I would really just give it to a few, in a controlled way, and watch them carefully... and put a bullet in their skulls as soon as they started to get too crazy. But in reality, what would I do? What should I do? I don’t know.”
“Exactly,” Nidor said. “Because there’s not one, rightful, black and white answer to this question. Meanwhile, the reality is what it is. And we’re trying to do whatever we can so it doesn’t get worse.”
Only that. And yet it was much at the same time.
Crumbly nodded silently.
“Well, one thing is clear today,” the captain summed it up. “You don’t feel quite convinced of the justification for participation in the upcoming conflict. I understand and respect your decision. In that case, I’ll ask you to forget today’s conversation. We’re not inviting you for the mission. We didn’t speak of it.”
Vesper hid a grin full of relief. So that’s how Nidor wanted to play it, that’s how...
The cop looked up immediately.
“But come on, what do you mean?” he protested hotly. “I just expressed my doubts. Besides...” He sighed heavily. “Besides, you pay me.”
“That has nothing to do with it,” the captain’s voice sounded particularly harsh. “It’s not a salary. The Capitol decided you were a unit valuable enough for us to support. Even if you don’t move a finger for our cause, the transfers will be completed regularly, every month. You did what you did, and we accepted you as Friend. And friends help each other. That’s it on the subject. “
“But... but I...” Crumbly choked out, red in his face. “I will help you gladly, of course. I just had to make sure, you understand...”
“You are completely right,” Nidor responded. “You have to be sure of what you’re getting yourself into, otherwise it makes no sense. In my opinion, you need more time to properly assess your motivation.” He smiled gentler at the A-T. “Rushing into things could be really devastating. Thank you for letting us understand. For now, we’re not going to use your help, we’ll take care of it in our own company. But thanks again!” He got up from his chair, letting Crumbly know he considered his visit at an end.
The other moved as well, clearly reluctantly. He stood staring at them in frustration.
“If you think so...” he elongated his statement. “If I’m not useful, then fine, I don’t need any favors...”
“Crumbly, understand this,” Vesper interjected, getting up as well. “It’s not that we’re trying to trick you into anything. It’s because we don’t want you going into battle wondering what the fuck you’re doing there. Because it could end badly for you and everyone around. Besides, there is no point for me to tell you battle ABCs, you know them as well as I do. Tell me, what would you do in our place in this situation?”
The A-T nodded.
“Right,” he choked out with a sigh. “Right. Without motivation, you could...” he broke off and shook his head. “Ehh....” He started toward the door without further comment. He stopped at the threshold and glanced at both friends.
“So, when do you have that mission?” He said, trying to sound uninterested. “Maybe I’ll get motivated, who knows...”
“You won’t,” they chorused.
He left the room, closing the door behind him.
The nighters glanced at each other knowingly, sipping blood from tall glasses. Crumbly wouldn’t let it go, obviously. But he’d do it completely outside nighter channels, of his own will. Or at least that’s what he’d think.
“Lord Ultor is calling you,” Nidor said suddenly. “Run!”
Vesper jumped up from the chair instantly.
***
A tired expression seemed to move onto Ultor’s face. Vesper watched him with worry, making sure he didn’t reveal it. Having his subordinates feel sorry for him was probably the last thing the lord wanted.
“You’re getting a very important assignment,” Ultor announced, sliding a packet of papers his way.
The young nighter grabbed the document off the desk and glanced at the symbols. Suddenly, he inhaled with a loud whistle. He stared at his lord with disbelief.
“You will back me up as a sharpshooter,” Lord Ultor nodded. “Nidor will cover you, so no reneg
ade gets on your back.”
Vesper swallowed.
“Thank you, my lord,” he choked out. “I’ll do whatever I can...”
“Look over the others’ placements,” Ultor interrupted him, clearly not wanting to hear any thanks. “You need to know it by heart.”
Vesper stared at the blueprints. He knew that building plan from somewhere... he glanced at the lord questioningly.
“Main building of Warsaw’s Polytech,” Ultor nodded. “Our man left us a present over there. He set the deposit opening for the right date and time, and added my code... he didn’t get to do more.”
Vesper gulped, then stared at the plans.
Polytech’s third floor gallery was marked with numerous ‘X’s. Two in each of the corner windows, plus two across from the terrace, which could be accessed by ornate stairs. A letter ‘U’ was marked there, also surrounded by numerous ‘X’s. All of the ‘X’s were sporting chicken-scratch marks, names most likely written in by Lord Ultor himself.
Vesper’s name was written at the ‘X’ in the gallery, right across from the lord.
The nighter gulped again, then analyzed the plan more deeply. He nodded at particular names, but grimaced slightly at one moment. Fulgur was placed in the right corner, right across from him, with the other captain as backup.
Vesper sighed, slightly disappointed. Alacer would watch his every move, and he’d probably get picky about something again. But maybe that was a good idea. If Vesper did his best, and the other saw it for himself, maybe he’d be convinced once and for all. So maybe that was quite a brilliant plan.
Ultor grimaced with amusement, as if he’d read the kid’s mind.
Vesper looked up at his lord, trying to decipher his face. Suddenly, he was completely sure he’d set the mission that way on purpose. That young nighter’s spot was well thought out in many ways. He grinned with appreciation-filled relief. He’d just received a chance of a lifetime.
“You should know a few things,” the lord said, re-assuming his usual, solemn expression. “First of all, we can expect company of the highest rank there.”
“Renegade Lord Aranea?” Vesper made sure.
“Aranea,” Ultor confirmed instantly. “She’ll certainly be there. And if she comes, then Nex will, too.”
Vesper nodded eagerly.
“Nidor will be happy,” he said quietly. “He’s been dreaming of nothing else than getting back at the general.”
Lord Ultor didn’t comment, clearly not considering that to be any news. Nidor’s ambition to hunt Nex down, after he’d brought him to his knees, was a public secret.
“If it comes to a Lords’ Duel,” Ultor kept talking. “You will have to be particularly careful. As soon as Aranea and I meet, each will try to take the others’ defense down. The one we wear on a daily basis; stopping bullets, not allowing any scratches near us, etc.”
That’s why I couldn’t get him! Vesper recalled his first meeting with Ultor. He didn’t let my bullets through...
“Aranea could be strong enough to try taking my defense down,” Lord Ultor continued. “Whether she’ll manage it or not, I don’t know. But I should be able to manage her field... or at least some time ago, I managed it.” An unpleasant grimace ran across his face, as if he didn’t like those memories. “So as soon as I see her shield weaken, I’ll give you a sign.” He fell silent, glancing at Vesper’s suddenly pale face. “At the right time, I’ll mentally send you an order,” he continued after a moment. “And you will obey it. Right?”
“Yes, my lord,” the nighter replied, trying to keep his voice from shaking. “I will obey your every order, my lord.”
Ultor’s solemn, serious expression didn’t change even a bit.
“From that moment on, the renegades will hunt you like nobody else,” he said slowly. “You will be their target number one.”
Vesper nodded, without saying anything. It was obvious what order Ultor would send him. Aranea’s face appeared before his eyes. She’s so beautiful, the thought rolled wildly across his head. So beautiful...
He was struck by an unexpected daydream; strange, alien, as if forced into his mind. He and Aranea, walking together down a white beach, the sea reflecting in her eyes... eyes that didn’t resemble the storm even a little. They rippled with a soft, gentle blue, and he felt that he could love them forever...
“The renegades will get you eventually,” the lord said quickly. “Have no doubts about that. Sooner or later, they will manage it, no matter how hard we try to protect you. Their fury, their determination, will be impossible to push away. So it’s quite possible that in reality I’m demanding your death. Do you understand?”
“I understand, my lord,” Vesper agreed, controlling his voice with effort. “Despite that... I’ll obey that order. For the Night, my lord.”
Aranea’s face appeared in his mind again, overshadowing Ultor, and causing sudden heartbreak. And then, overwhelming pain. Suddenly he understood with terrifying clarity. It seemed like he was a little in love with her. He closed his eyes quickly, worrying that their expression could betray him.
“There is no one and nothing I wouldn’t sacrifice for the Cause,” Lord Warrior Ultor said. “No matter the cost. And you?”
Vesper took a deep breath, then let it out slowly. He stared at Ultor with silent confirmation clearly painted on his face.
“You can go,” Ultor said in an unnaturally calm tone. “I think we’ve said everything already. If you have any questions...” he broke off.
“Are you sure, my lord, that the renegades will be there?” the nighter whispered shyly, holding on to false hope. “All of them?”
“They’ll be there” the other said with conviction. “For sure.”
Vesper was silent, staring at the floor. He felt more and more overwhelmed by the assignment awaiting him. To carry out, no matter the cost. To eliminate the enemy. To kill... her... without shred of mercy.
“Be careful,” Ultor said in a very strange tone. “Don’t let her trick you. Don’t let her into your heart, into your head. Aranea can lie like no other. She will twist you wrong, wrap you around her little finger, and you won’t even know when and how.”
The nighter trembled. For a moment, he wanted to tell the Lord about his lustful dreams, but he stopped himself. Maybe Ultor would decide then that the role he’d given him in tomorrow’s play was too risky. And then he would say goodbye to his dream of removing all suspicions away from himself, once and for all.
Or maybe Lord Ultor knew about those dreams already. He always knew everything, so maybe he knew that too. Maybe he had dipped in Vesper’s head now and then, just in case? And the situation now just created a chance to free himself from the evil charm. Now and forever, Amen.
One way or another, Vesper would be deeply grateful to Ultor for all of it. And he would obey all the orders without hesitation.
“I have no more questions, my lord,” he said aloud. “Thank you for your confidence.” He got up, slightly wobbly, from the chair. “It’s an honor for me, my lord,” he added convincingly.
Ultor nodded without a word. The nighter left the office, leaving Lord Ultor motionless behind his desk.
***
Vesper walked down the corridor with slightly wobbly steps. He stared carefully at the familiar walls and doors... they seemed so unreal now. As if he was just now seeing them for the first time in his life, no matter if it was the first or second life.
He reached the empty TV hall and walked to the bar. He poured himself a full glass of blood. He drank it slowly, savoring its flavor. Finally, he put the glass on the counter and looked out of the window.
It was empty there, too. As if all the nighters had disappeared, as if they were only a dream.
He knew very well it wasn’t true. The day shift was asleep, and the night one was keeping watch. But, it still seemed weird that there was nobody here...
He jumped onto the windowsill in one swift move. He pushed himself slightly harder and soared to
the roof. Then he looked down. It used to be so hard, he thought with a bitter smile. So hard.
He jumped to the ground, flipping a few saltos in mid-air. He landed softly, confidently, on both feet. He glanced at the room again. Should he go again? No. What for?
Vesper got back into the TV hall, soaring in through the window. He glanced at the bar. More blood? No.
He strolled over to the door leading to the human part of the base. He put his hand on the handle, then withdrew it a moment later. Well, he didn’t actually want to see them. He’d rather not.
The door opened by itself.
Vesper stepped back and turned to face the other door. He wasn’t in the mood for any conversations, not now. He turned back though, prodded by a sudden thought. Well, he should have done it a long time ago. He had forgotten, overwhelmed by battle fever and other pressing issues. He’d simply forgotten. But someone had to finally do it...
“Stop sticking yourself with needles already,” he choked out, putting his hand on the recruit’s shoulder. “You know, there’s no point. I tricked you. I’m sorry.”
The other stared at him with eyes full of disbelief and astonishment.
“What did you say?” he stammered, still startled. “Buuuut... How?”
“We needed you to calm down,” the nighter said seriously. “I didn’t have a better idea at the time. I gave you Tylenol... and then saline solution. And you believed it.”
The kid nodded slowly. Vesper sighed, slightly ashamed.
“We had no other choice at the time,” he confessed. “We would have had to chain you in the Bunker, who knows for how long. And we didn’t know what Lord Ultor would decide in your case. So I thought the saline solution wouldn’t harm you anyway. And later it was hard to take it back, while we waited for Ultor to accept you as a nighter...”
“Why are you telling me this?” the recruit asked dryly. “And why right now?”
“Because you won’t run away anymore,” Vesper said simply. “You’ve sunk into this environment with your heart and soul. So there’s no point in sticking yourself anymore. I’m sorry I’m only telling you now. And I’m sorry... in general.”
Nighter Page 28