206

Chapter 206 : A Chat With The Devil (2)

Agni wasn’t quite sure how to react to this strange man’s attention. He seemed detached from anything and anyone, yet suddenly he seemed to only have eyes for her. There was also the question of how he’d manage to shrug off her ‘Whisper’ ability.

Then again, that seemed more and more common these days. In a way, it kind of irked her. She concealed her displeasure though, as she was keenly aware that the strange young man had begun to study her more closely. The feeling was mutual. Agni could only believe that his ability to resist her Whisper may have had something to do with the unusual tendrils of black energy he’d displayed.

She decided to put this to the test.

“Sing me a song about the good old days.” She commanded. It was the first thing that came to mind, she hadn’t even a clue where she’d heard the song lyric. However she noticed something strange. She could “feel” that her Whisper didn’t work. Or perhaps sense was the better term. To Agni, it felt as if the skill simply washed over her target rather than “seeping into”. This was the best way she could describe the nuances to ‘Whisper’. It felt as if her magic, her ability was invading her target. And, for a moment, she felt like she was one with them.

This brief sensation, this nuance, was missing from her latest attempt. This confirmed that whomever this young man was, he’d done something to counter her ability.

In response, the silver haired man smirked, his eyes flashed with curiosity and he took a step closer.

“And you must be the succubus I keep hearing about.” The voice which interrupted was both deep and husky. Enzo Gaines had now, finally directed his attention towards Agni.

“What have you heard?” Vivian Lex asked as she stepped closer towards Agni, taking up position right next to her.

“That, unlike the other succubus, she’s one with a conscience. Nice even.” Gaines replied. It was clear to Agni that he’d purposely chosen that moment to interject himself between his assistant and her. She just wasn’t sure why. Even his positioning, it looked to her as if he was standing as a barrier.

This in turn made Agni wonder exactly what the person behind Gaines was.

*What?* That’s a strange impression to have.* Agni thought.

*Not really. That guy feels..dirty. He’s got a certain...darkness about him. Like there’s a pitch black clinging to him that just won’t wash away.* Shula chimed in, having been silent for quite a while.

If they both felt the same ill energy surrounding this person, there was no mistake. His class was a mystery, which seemed to be happening more and more these days.

*I really need to ask someone about that.* She thought inwardly.

“It depends on who’s asking. A devil to some, angel to others.” Agni replied, her eyes locking with the tall, monocled man standing just meters away.

He didn’t reply to this and instead seemed to be appraising her. Fitting, considering the monocle -- at least this is what Agni thought.

“Aren’t we all.” Gaines finally replied, then extended his hand towards Agni. Although she had no particular reason not to shake his hand, something about the simple gesture seemed disingenuous to her. Agni felt very deeply that by taking his hand she might be giving Gaines some sort of satisfaction. It occurred to her that Vivian Lex may have felt the same way earlier. Thus she simply bowed her head, the slightest of blows meant to acknowledge his greeting.

Gaines' smile broadened as he withdrew his hand, bringing it to his side.

“Loyalty. I like that. Perhaps one day you’ll embrace Memento Mori with that mentality.” Gaines then commented.

“And you as well, Scribes are always welcome. The Doyenne of Mystic Tower is quite fortunate to have been blessed with such treasures.” This comment was directed towards Katrin who, up until now, had been quietly observing the conversation.

Vivian Lex said nothing in response to either comments, but rather she held her gaze upon Gaines. With all avenues for further niceties exhausted, Gaines excused himself with a curt bow and turned to walk away. The woman at his side cut her eyes towards Agni while the young man’s smile seemed misplaced. His gaze lingered over her for a few seconds more, then he followed along with the woman to catch up to Gaines.

“That was certainly filled with a lot of tension!” Gigi said, rather excitedly at that. It seemed she enjoyed conflict of all types, regardless of origin.

“You could say that again. Do you and that man have some issues with one another?” Gates asked as he scratched at his temple.

“Everyone, listen closely. Beware of Enzo Gaines and Memento Mori. There are some very shady rumors surrounding them both, but nothing concrete.” Vivian said, directing her words to the group of chapel members gathered nearby.

“Really? What kind of rumors?” Katrin asked.

“Rumors of strong arm tactics, disappearances and the like.” Vivian explained, but she stopped, as if considering her words.

“It’s complicated.” She then responded.

“Anyway, it’s an order. Don’t associate with him or any of his chapel members. Is that clear?” She commanded. This won an affirmative from the people gathered nearby.

“Oliver. Now’s as good a time as any. Be discreet.” Vivian then commented, prompting Oliver to nod and walk off. Agni found this odd, yet didn’t say much. She was still trying to process the nagging feeling growing in the pit of her stomach.

Ambivalence. It was the only word she could think of, yet it clearly came to mind as she thought over the “whole” of the things she’d heard regarding Enzo Gaines. On the outside people seemed loyal to him and he was well liked by those who held positions of authority. There was no real proof that he’d done anything terrible and outwardly he was extolled as a role model. A person that others should aspire to be like.

And yet, her instincts told her otherwise, hence her current feelings on the matter. She’d personally heard too many unsavory rumors. A concerned Angellus searching for answers. A proprietor of a popular establishment. And now nearly every Doyenne of prestige or notoriety had suspicions.

*Where there’s smoke, there’s usually fire.* Agni thought to herself.

“The rest of you, it’s time to check out the rest of the festival.” Vivian said, emphasizing her words with a clap of her hand.

“The stalls are set up and everything is prepared. It’s time for the Skill Shop.”