Journey Home: Road to Redemption Pt 5

*Thankfully, after some time in the bar, making small talk and drinking, Lorenzo was much more relaxed than he was before, the tension that had unknowingly been held in his muscles from the various awkward meetings of the day smoothing out a little, which, he begrudgingly realized, was probably the main point of Agent C bringing him to Black Betty in the first place. While he would never voice it to the man personally, Lorenzo was glad that Dae-Hyun had apparently thought ahead. Assuming that it had been as planned as Lorenzo gave him credit for. One couldn’t always tell, with Agent C, after all*

Lorenzo: A question. Is it really wise to be here for long? Not that I mind, but if you’re dragging me to play babysitter for a school of troubled teens, is drinking the night before that good an idea?

Dae-Hyun: Oh? Have you become less tolerant to liquid courage over the years, old man?

Lorenzo: Witty. I hardly need alcohol to give me ‘courage’. Though at the same time, I could suddenly have a legitimate excuse to leave you on your own and ditch the whole idea. Just saying. *He offers a lazy grin* But then again, you probably wouldn’t care how I acted or otherwise and would drag me anyway, so it’s moot point, I suppose. Or maybe I’m just digging for information on why you decided to bring me here in the first place and just can’t be bothered with the mind games for answers. If it makes you feel any better, you can pretend I ‘lost tolerance’, if you like.

Dae-Hyun: Ah, and there’s the cynical bastard act again…. Lovely. You really can’t enjoy a drink, now can-

Messenger: DELIVERY! For young Master Lorenzo!!!

*An overly enthusiastic messenger appears before the bantering pair, presenting a large parcel to Lorenzo*

Messenger: My Lord Zeus has asked me to come bearing gifts for his youngest seed, offering this as a sign peace to you. Saying that it should come in handy very soon.

*The slight openness that Lorenzo had gained in their bantering closed off slightly again, though out of his past dislike of Zeus, his general discomfort around gods, or just being suddenly invaded by the jovial delivery boy, it wasn’t clear. However, he didn’t outright throw his glass at him, or storm out, or say anything rude, which was a plus. In fact, he even took the parcel, even if he looked like he’d rather eat spiders.*

Lorenzo: *Reluctantly* …..Thanks….

*With those words, the delivery boy seem to dematerialise from sight, leaving the pair alone once more.*

Dae-Hyun: Well, you handled that with more grace than I thought you would. Progress, I guess? So, are you going to open it or let that seal in stay intact *Gestures to Zeus’ Crest*

*Lorenzo, as Dae-Hyun had been talking, had placed the parcel in the middle of the table, rested his head in his hands and just stared at it for a long while, expression flickering through a number of unreadable emotions, before finally closing his eyes*

Lorenzo:....Giving me a gift isn’t going to change my mind so quickly….*Sighing, he rubs his temples*

Dae-Hyun: I’m not taking sides or nothing….. But it’s not like he’s one of those step dads trying to buy their kids affection. If that were the case, he would have done so alooong time ago. Besides, didn't the messenger say ‘it should come in handy very soon’? It might be something very important. At least look at what it could be, and if it's nothing important then you don't have to keep it.

*Lorenzo eyed the parcel once again. While it likely wasn’t the case, it still almost felt like even looking was giving Zeus a chance that he wasn’t sure he wanted to give. After all, he had barely even come to terms with the reunion, since they had come here straight after food, which had been only just after he had woken up. Still, he supposed that, if it was something he couldn’t stand to look at, or later felt he couldn’t give him the chance he asked for, he could always use it as some kind of sign. Nothing said ‘do not want’ like pinning it to the wall of Olympus with god-steel.

...Assuming he ‘did not want’.

...He sometimes hated being in his own head.

Sighing, he reached forwards and tore through the seal somewhat vindictively to block out his head, instead pausing to look at what had been presented to him. There, folded up neatly, was what looked like clothing. Suppressing more impulsive urges, he lifted the folded clothing up to find a dark, slightly beaten up looking trench coat that reminded him a little of a detective’s coat. It also looked….oddly familiar.

It took a moment for it to click into place, before he dropped it back onto the table, and rested his head in his hands, focusing on his breathing to stop any particular impulsive actions he could name in ten seconds.*

Dae-Hyun: *Whistle* What a beauty! I haven’t seen this material in centuries. If I’m not mistaken, it’s from a certain type of golden sheep in your pantheon, no? The designs out dated and it’s a bit worn here and there, but I’m sure Esta would gladly patch it up, if you decide to keep it.

*For a moment, Dae-Hyun’s words fell on deaf ears, as a repressed memory crept its way back into Lorenzo’s mind.*

---Memory---

Zeus: Hephaestus, are you done with it already?

Hephaestus: YES, yes, this way. So damned demanding. Short budget ass, stupid ass *Mutters under breath*

Zeus: You know, I can hear you?

Hephaestus: Oh, I said nothing. Must have been the wind, Sir.

Zeus: ….

*Hephaestus, leads the way into his smithery, where Zeus’s commission is supposed to be hanging buy it now is partly trailing across the floor*

Hephaestus:  What the?

*CRASH*

12-Year-Old Lorenzo: Awww, I hit my head

Hephaestus: Well you shouldn't be in here! Damned brat.  

*Waving off the other god, Zeus made his way over to where the noise came from, raising a brow at the odd mess he had managed to get himself into. There, looking more like his commission was trying to trap the boy, than anything else, was a rather dazed Lorenzo. Attempting not to laugh, Zeus reached down and plucked the boy up before the coat could further eat him….somehow.*

Zeus: My boy, dare I ask how you ended up wrestling clothing and are coming out second best?

12-Year-Old Lorenzo: I wasn’t wrestling it, papa, I was trying to wear it!

Zeus: Uh huh…..Seems to me that it is attempting to smother you. If you wore it, I might lose you forever in there.

12-Year-Old Lorenzo: That’s silly. Is going to be mine some day so I was checking if it fit right that's all… it’s not like I was pretending to  be you or anything.

Zeus: Ah, but you still have a bit more growing room just yet. Maybe once you’re as big and strong as your old man, hm?

12-year-old Lorenzo: I’m gonna be stronger than papa! N I’m gonna protect him, and I'm gonna be cooler! So you better not let anything happen to it until then. *Pout* I'm gonna grow up quick, just you wait! Plus it looks better on me.

Zeus: Tell you what then. When the time comes, it’s yours. How about that?

12-Year-Old Lorenzo: *Grin* Yay! I get papa’s coat *Bouncing with joy while clinging to his father*

Zeus: Yes, well, at the moment, my son, the coat looks like it has you. Let’s get you untangled, shall we?

12-Year-Old Lorenzo: Humph!!! What are you trying to say!!!  *Puffs up his cheeks*

Zeus: That the coat is eating you. If you want to wear it once you’re big and strong, might be best that you’re not consumed, first, hm?

*The memory fades with the teasing and whining from the duo*

*Taking a deep breath, Lorenzo pulls his head out of his hands, though they still covered his mouth, staring down at the coat, conflicted*

Lorenzo: *Muttering to self* ….Idiot….Don’t stupid things when you know damned well that they haven’t met any of those damned requirements…

Dae-Hyun: Hey, you know talking to yourselves the first sign of madness, right? Nice coat. *Sarcastic tone*

Lorenzo:...I thought we established that I have more than one sign. *Sighing, he rubbed his temples* And Zeus is being a sentimental idiot….as usual…Trying to play to any hint of an old me in there... *There wasn’t much bite in his tone*

Dae-Hyun:  Is that really true? From the way you’re both acting, it seems like it’s more adhering to a promise. *He gestures to a note sticking out of the remnants of the parcel*

[Note]

I’ve been meaning to give this to you for a while now… but, until recently, you’ve been out of my reach. However, now we can fulfill our promise. It may be a little warn, but its defensive nature should be more than enough to protect you for the most part. Alter it as you see fit, my little spark.

Love Papa.

*Lorenzo stares at the note for a little longer, torn between wanting to tear it to shreds, tear the coat to shreds, or tear into himself - none of the actions being something that would be good to do in public*

Lorenzo:....Can we...go back. Please.

Dae-Hyun:  Sure…

*A short time later, the pair arrive back in their dorm, Dae-Hyun slumping over a carbonated bottle of water, while Lorenzo sat across from him, still toying with the fabric of the warn jacket. Eventually, after a long moment, Lorenzo spoke*

Lorenzo: He shouldn’t have, you know. Kept the whole promise thing. It was something dumb that a dumb child had asked for. And besides, it’s not like that dumb child kept up his end of it. *he sighs*

Dae-Hyun: Ummmm~ well for better or for worst you did grow up, you did fight to protect what you believed in no matter how twisted it was and when you were with us you were pretty cool.

Lorenzo: So, what, two out of three still work- wait a minute *Eyes him suspiciously* How do you even know? Only three people knew of that promise anyway, and you weren’t there.

Dae-Hyun: *Chuckle* Oh, I have my ways…..of getting a god slightly drunk and having him talk about his favorite child. And having him go on an’ oooon about how cute he is. Jeez, that man is the embodiment of a doting parent.

Lorenzo: ...He shouldn’t. He’s an idiot…

Dae-Hyun:  Oh like father like son eh? *Grin while sticks tongue out*

*Rather than joke back, Lorenzo just seemed to hunch over a little more*

Lorenzo: ….Yeah…..an idiot….

*For a while, he said nothing, not showing what might be going on in his head beyond those words, that had a measure of loathing, though less at the god and more elsewhere. If Dae-Hyun said anything in response, he outright ignored him for a long moment. Finally, he sighed and stood, holding the coat up to himself with an unreadable expression, eyebrow ticking slightly as he noticed his reflection*

Lorenzo: [Inner Thoughts] ….Still looks like it’s going to swallow me….

Dae-Hyun:  Dude, you know vanity is a sin, right?  Quit checking yourself out and wear the damn thing already. Preferably before I go gray? *Raised brow, and slight smirk*

Lorenzo: *Sorting* As if ‘vanity’ is the sin that I should worry about the most in my arsenal.

*Even so, he hesitated, before sighing, resigning himself to being the but of every short joke the other could muster, donning the coat. As suspected, the sleeves still stretched far passed his hands. He felt like a child trying to dress in adult clothing, or, quite literally, a kid putting on his parent’s coat.*

Dae-Hyun:.....

Lorenzo:..... *Braces himself for the onslaught to come*

Dae-Hyun: Pffftttt! AHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHHA!!! Dude, you look like it's wearing you! You look like you're playing dress up in you old man's clothes! Seriously, it looks like it's eating you! Ahahahahahahaha aaaaaaah *Cough couch* No, this is too much, I got to sent this to Esta ahhhhh haaa ahhhha. *Takes photo, and with lightning speed sends a message to Esta, while wiping away tears. Lorenzo’s eyebrow twitched at the ribbing for a long moment, before finally he threw the offending coat from his shoulders, rolling back his sleeves with an almost murderous glint in his eyes directed at the object in question*

Lorenzo: That’s it, I’m stabbing it into Mount Olympus, or so help me-!

Dae-Hyun: *Stifling both the grin and laughing fit* No, no, it's not that bad. It's just a little extra fabric, that's all. Let Esta work her magic and it’ll look good as new *Small giggle* But, I won't lie, it looked cute on you.

Lorenzo: I am not cute. You do not call people like me cute. It’s not my fault that moron of a god happens to have more muscles and height than sense!

*He descends into meaningless grumbles as he heavily sits down once more, shooting dark glares at the coat. He almost looked as though he was pouting*

Dae-Hyun: Sure, sure, whatever you say dude. Anyway…

*Dae-Hyun, reaches for his laptop, printing out various handouts, notes, etc.*

Dae-Hyun: You think you could grab those? We’re going to teach the kids Greek and Roman history, with beginner Mystic studies attached. Make sure you got it memorized, or at least have the gist of it by the time class starts. I'm gonna be doing the reports for HQ’s archives…. It's gonna be a bitch, but as long as it's done by the evening it should be ok? *Sigh* Fuck my life.

Lorenzo: Yes, fuck your life for getting me involved in schooling brats.

*Despite his complaints, the demigod still took the papers from him, grumbling obscenities under his breath even as his eyes scanned over the documents intently, used to similar multitasking both from his time in Pandora and in Phoenix*

Dae-Hyun: Oh shut it. The ‘Brats’, as you call our adorable students, are beginning to grow on you an’ you know it.

Lorenzo: Doesn’t stop them being brats. Guess they fit in with all the rest of the brats I’ve ended up following me around at some point, I suppose.

Dae-Hyun:  What you trying to say, ‘Daddy’?

Lorenzo: You’re too young to be going deaf yet, ‘son’.

Dae-Hyun: FUCK YOU! *Flips the bird*

Lorenzo: Careful, there. I thought you wanted to do that with Esta.

[END]

Journey Home: Road to Redemption Pt 4

--- Sleeping Quarters, Pandora Base ---

*When he finally came to, Lorenzo was no longer in the conference room with Zeus, but was now lying on the bed he had been assigned in Agent C’s room. He had no idea how much time had passed, exactly. While the dying sun through the windows hinted that perhaps an hour or two had gone by, he couldn’t see a clock or calendar to confirm that it was even the same day he had fallen unconscious, and there was no one around he could question. Dae-Hyun, was nowhere to be seen, though the slightly rumpled bedclothes made him think that he had been present until a short time ago. Likewise, his father was also not there.

He wasn’t sure exactly how he felt about that.

Either way, he was alone, and exhausted in more ways than mere sleep could cure.

Sighing, he pushed himself upright, wrapping his arms around his knees and pressing his forehead against them, his mind drifting over the previous events before his body had given out. Zeus, his father, had taken him away without permission and, after Lorenzo had done his level best to plunge his fist through the god’s face, had forced him to a standstill and had pleaded with him to listen, had even apologised to him for being so late, had promised he would not leave him alone.

He snorted, though without energy. So much for that one. He was alone right now, after all. Even so, he couldn’t muster the usual wrath, feeling oddly empty after burning himself out raging against his father for the many injustices. Even so, though Lorenzo knew that Zeus could have easily struck him back, other than a couple of submission holds, he had never once tried to actually hurt him.

Zeus, it seemed, had simultaneously changed, yet not changed at all.

In all honesty, however, the same could probably be said for himself. He had spent a long time hating the gods. While Zeus’ actions had certainly been a cause, it wasn’t only that, but all the gods in general that had incensed him, either for how they acted in general, how his fellow demigods, mundane people and mystics had been treated as dirt under their shoes, how they were used or blamed….

He could still recall the look in Zeus’ eyes, when he had finally been pushed too far, unable to stand being around gods that could act in such a way, that could seemingly so easily influence the few who could have changed things.*

Lorenzo [Inner Thoughts]: He didn’t understand, not truly, why I came to resent them all, why I resented him, for all the things they could have done, yet didn’t because of tradition, or because some were too arrogant to ever accept the changes. And, not only that, they then pressed that same bigotry into Pandora, our safehaven, and tearing apart everything that made it the organization we all once loved...

*Then there was the Red War, the final straw, which had caused the major changes, where he had been forced to see friends, comrades die and no god ever came to help any of their children, or answered any plea. No mercy to any of them.

Perhaps a part of him had died then. It made sense, if that was the case. It was easy for Phoenix to find those holes, after all.

It wasn’t to say he entirely thought what he had done was wrong. The Red War, his own ‘death’ had certainly been a driving force behind the changes. Perhaps what had even pulled Zeus up short in his own priorities. It also gave him a few insights now that he certainly wouldn’t have had, had he never left. But there were plenty of regrets as well.*

Lorenzo [Inner Thoughts]: A world of grey, both right, yet wrong….I cannot change the path I took. No matter what, I would have regretted something. All I can do now is move forwards, and bare the consequences of all my actions, good or ill.

*Rowdy voices the seem to be muffled through the thick oak doors of the dorm reached  Lorenzo’s ears, giving him only a short warning before it swung open with a slam, amplifying the rowdy caws of  said voices’ owners.*

Esta: You stupid lion! Do you know what time it is?! I was just about to go on a date an’ all!!!

Dae-Hyun: Wa-What! A date with who? You don’t need anyone else, you have me!!! An-and besides, you know I can’t cook, so how am I supposed to feed ‘Darling Lorenzie’? You know he’s a growing boy an’ he needs all the nutrition he can get.

Esta: Whaaaat! The cutie that was with you before is your room mate, i thought he was just an old college?!

*Her excitement seems to be plastered on her face, her lust filled eyes seemed to form hearts for a moment, at the vexation of the annoyed lion behind her.*

Dae-Hyun: Jeez, what do you see in him? I’m just as strong! I’m younger and more handsome than that old man!!!!

Esta: Did you say something, immature, broke-ass lion?

Dae-Hyun: Jeezus, woman, wanna hit me harder?!

Esta: *Razed brow* Well, if that’s what you’re into?

Dae-Hyun:  ...Seriously?

Esta: I’m not the one who said it. Anyway.

*Her voice, which seemed sarcastic and course, lightened up for a brief moment as she called out into the dorm, slowly making her way into the main area.*

Esta: Lorenzoooo~! Darling, where are you? I have some yummy food for yooooou~

*Lorenzo shuddered slightly, thinking back on his last encounter with the Jorogumo. Her clingy nature and overy forward disposition were more than overwhelming. He decided to fix his evening wear that exposed his chest, the thought of her fawning over him made him grimace.*

Lorenzo: I’ll….join you in a moment.

*Knowing that if he didn’t meet with them in the living area, he would end up with her clinging to him in the bedroom, Lorenzo slipped from the bed and ran a hand through his hair, hoping not to entice her with a just out of bed look, before joining the two in the main room*

Lorenzo: My apologies for the wait.

Esta: Meow…. Aren’t we as sexy as ever, and I will say, the disheveled look does become you *Sublely liks her lips.*

Dae-Hyun: ESTA!!!!!!

Esta: Are you still here, rabid lion?!!!

*Hoping to stop the oncoming storm brewing between the two of them, Lorenzo quickly interrupts*

Lorenzo: You said something about food? I’ll admit, I wasn’t expecting it. C is not usually in charge of such things. Is this, perhaps, some iteration of ‘Father’s Day’? Still, thank you both for your thoughtfulness.

Dae-Hyun: Pft! I’m guessing you heard us, hahahahah! Well, let’s get the table ready. My beautiful Esta’s cooking smells amazing as allways.

Esta: ‘My?’ Esta? Boy, bye! We’re only a thing in your dreams, make no mistake. But here in the real world, mature men are more my thing *She winks at Lorenzo*

*Lorenzo pointedly ignores the look. There was no good answer to something like that, that wouldn’t either cause Dae-Hyun to throw a hissy fit, or accidentally encourage Esta further. While it was true that he was ‘mature’ in terms of mundane people, he was still a little young for a demi-god. Pointing that out would probably only have her find something in those words attractive. Rather than that, he busied himself with the table, making sure it was ready for whatever food, before stepping away, allowing the two to serve the meals they had prepared.*

Dae-Hyun: *Sigh* Well, let's dig in.  *Mumbling* Stupid, flirty son of Zeus, stealing peoples girls *pout.*

Lorenzo: *Eyebrow twitching, but muttering* How can I be responsible for this?

*Heaving a sigh, Lorenzo began to dig into the food. Dae-Hyun was right, at least, in that the meals were exquisite. At least that was one hole that could be easily remedied, and gave him the excuse of not needing to talk about what had happened with Zeus for a little while. All too soon, however, the meal came to an end. Hoping to delay a little longer, Lorenzo made some tea for the group, before taking his seat once again, nursing the cup in his hands*

Esta: Well, I best be off, unfortunately. But don't worry, I’ll be back in the morning. We’ll talk about SAJA tomorrow, so be prepared for the reports and teachers’ plans for the week. *Sigh* Well, that’s gonna be ‘FUN.’

Lorenzo: Oh….yes….I had forgotten. Until tomorrow then, Miss Esta.

Esta: Bye, hun! *She blows a kiss before turning to Dae-Hyun* Rabid Lion.

*She leaves closing the door behind her.*

Lorenzo: *Sarcastically* Wow….you….really know how to pick them, C.

Dae-Hyun: Leave me alone! You jackass! Woman stealer!!!! Old flirt!!! *Pouting*

Lorenzo: I was hardly flirting, and I do not go out of my way to steal other people’s women. I am not Eros and not able to charm women by being the epitome of ‘love’ or ‘lust’ and I am not my father-

*He cuts himself off, uncomfortable about bringing up Zeus so soon. Pausing for a moment to evaluate Lorenzo’s reaction, C chooses his next words carefully*

Dae-Hyun: …. Dude… *Sigh* He’s not going anywhere any time soon… so you might as well make the best of ‘a bad situation’. To be honest, just like the organisation’s secrets, there are things we have yet to find out. But, unlike the organisation… all you need to do to find out your answers is ask him directly. He may not give you everything, but he should be able to clarify some things. At least the part with ‘226’s Red War’. Since he’s insisting on rebuilding bridges, that might be the first thing that needs to be cleared up.

Lorenzo: Maybe….Such a pleasant conversation, that. “Yes, ‘father’, let’s talk. How about you tell me why you and all the others left us all to die”....*He looks away for a moment* ...That isn’t to say I won’t ask, of course. There is a lot that do need to be answered for. But I can’t just…..bring it up like that. One conversation with him didn’t make me just magically like him again. If I brought it up now, when my heart is still so confused, it would be easy for things to descend back into rage. I need….a little time...I’m sick of being angry, but if I want to be able to let that go, I need to….accept some things first. Maybe then, when I do ask, I can….come to terms with things, the way I couldn’t before.

Dae-Hyun: Suit yourself, but for now… just see how things go….. At least lend him your ear…when the time comes. That’s all I’m asking man. Oh, and before I forget, there’s a package coming. I think it’s from a goddess or something. It was commissioned from Zeus, but he said it’s gonna need altering to suit your tastes, so, while we’re in ‘Teacher Mode’, Esta’s gonna work her magic. We have a few new kids in your class that are of the Mystic persuasion, so protocol calls for some form of protection- Oh shit!

Lorenzo: What now?

*Running to the study, Dae-Hyun scrambles to gather two folders*

Dae-Hyun: *Higher than normal pitch* Well, I forgot to mention about these two….. Students.

Lorenzo: I’m not surprised. You forgot a lot of things to do with this school crap. Still, proceed. What’s wrong with these two that it has you so panicked?

Dae-Hyun: Well, it’s a funny story... *Nervous laugh* You see, the Teacher Killer and her handler are an…. ‘Interesting’ pair.

Lorenzo: OK, interesting, I’d assume, that the ‘teacher killer’ is either an assassin that literally kills teachers, or ends their careers. Considering you’re not pulling out the artillery, I’m going to assume the latter case. I’m also going to assume they weren’t in the class last time. So, enough beating around the bush. Tell me.

Dae-Hyun:  Oh, so already met her? But, seriously, you hit the nail on the head with the assassin thing - both of them, really. If I’m remembering correctly... *Flips through the file* Ah! Here it is: they were trained by the AH organisation. Both of them are protected by Our Lady herself, so they’re a special case. We mainly let them do as they please, to a certain extent. N’ those kids, yeah….they follow her…and, depending on whether she likes you or not, well, ‘the killer will or won't be set loose’.Still, if anything, her handler usually tames her before she can get ‘that’ bad. Just… just don't separate them and you’ll be fine. But if there is a case where she goes off, RUN! RUN like the heavenly forces are after you, and don't forget to take the kids… Last time we had an issue, she burned half the school down… we lost nine good teachers that day.. *Shakes head, shivering wildly*

Lorenzo:...OK, so…why exactly do you think it’s a good idea to have me in charge of this class again, once you dump this on me? Considering my own temper, her apparent temper and other past incidences on both sides, don’t you think you are literally inviting an apocalypse?

Dae-Hyun:  Believe it or not, I think you might be the only teacher she’ll be tame with. *Mutters under breath* You’re both as bat shit insane as each other. Temper’s just about right too. A match made in heaven - no hell. Definitely hell…. Should I just call the undertaker now? Um … oh shit! I said that out loud didn't I?

Lorenzo:...No shit, Sherlock. Look, I’m insane. I accept that. But even I think that this is a dumb idea. Either we’ll end the world, or we’ll team up to end the world, or we’ll traumatise the world and claim domination. But this will not end up being the most responsible thing to do, what so ever, to place a wild child in and around a person who willingly would have ended life as we know it. *Rubbing his chin* I suppose then, that ultimately, whatever happens will be your fault. I warned you, after all. Perhaps I should get it in writing, just so I can tell you ‘I told you so’ once the class and I subjugate the entire country.

Dae-Hyun: Y-you're joking right?

Lorenzo: *Resting his chin on steepled hands* Am I? Am I joking, really? *Closed eyed smile* Well….it’s all on you, isn’t it, dear C.

Dae-Hyun: Duuuuuude?! Seriously, you’re the adult, at least have some self restraint, man.

Lorenzo: Ah, but we know that I can’t possibly be trusted with my own decisions. I’m….what did they say to Lady Pouvel…? ‘Not mentally sound’ and thus ‘cannot be held responsible for my actions’. So, as the one making sure I don’t run with sharp objects and other such harmful things, you are the one directly responsible for keeping me in line. Or did I miss anything? Hmmmmm? *Devilish grin*

Dae-Hyun: You… you devil.

Lorenzo: Ah, not quite, but I’m sure I can elevate myself to his level.

Dae-Hyun: WHAT’S WRONG WITH YOU!!!!!????

Lorenzo: You know, I don’t know. We can always ask the psychologist the next time, after they come around to give therapy to everyone we’ve traumatised.

Dae-Hyun: Bruh…. *Makes the sign of the cross with fingers* Uh uh, you have some demons in you that you need to exorcise! ‘Coz your shit ain’t normal *Backs a few feet away, trying not to chuckle.*

Lorenzo: I’ll have you know I make sure to stick them on a treadmill every day. They get plenty of exercise.

Dae-Hyun: Fuck you, man.

*Taking his tea and sitting back in his chair, Lorenzo merely gives him a sly smirk over the rim of his mug*

Lorenzo: I don’t do insest, ‘son’. Maybe you should ask Miss Esta instead.

Dae-Hyun: *Flips the bird* You know, I really hate you sometimes. You know that?

Lorenzo: Oh, I know. It’s a calling, really.

*He chuckles a little, before shaking his head, fixing his gaze on the mug*

Lorenzo: I know that if I do that in reality, when I’m unable to see clearly, I will likely be put down like the rabid creature I am. So I’ll try not to cause you too much trouble...possibly. You may need to check up with me on that another day, of course. I might have changed my mind.

Dae-Hyun: Oh shut up, you loved being part of the faculty. It was in your eyes at the end of the day. You love ‘My’ Esta’s cooking and you're walking up to the idea of sanity.  But don't worry, Daddy, if you do go off the deep end again, I’ll be the one dragging you along out of the crazed waters of your mind. ‘N if that doesn't work, I do carry a taser around. *Teasing grin* Zap Zap.

Lorenzo: Uh….I have the blood of a lightning wielding god. I’m….pretty sure tasers...don’t work on me. Since they’re, you know, electric. *He sighed, scratching the back of his neck* You make it sound easy, though, that I can just pick and chose when I ‘leap off sanity bridge’. I….don’t think it’ll be easy to just…..choose to be sane again. Just so you know. It’s better than you getting your hopes up too high. But I suppose if you’re all insane enough to still take that risk, well, who am I to judge.

*He raises his mug in a mock toast.*

Lorenzo: To insanity and beyond.

[END]

Journey Home: Road to Redemption Pt 3

--- Pandora Headquarters Entrance Hall ---

*As Lorenzo and C enter the lobby door to Pandora’s HQ, an angry Voice seems to ring out like thunder, rattling the glass of the doors so they threatened to splinter at any moment.  The vulgar tone seemed to annoy the spectators that were passing through, so much so that this would appear this was not the first time that an incident such as this had occurred. Aside of the slight fear in the young receptionist eyes, the young women, though small in stature, stood her ground, full of exasperation she explained though gritted teeth.*

Female Receptionist: Sir, as I explained to you many times during your last ‘visit,’ the time frame you assigned was impossible to complete your task. I believe I TOLD you it would take at least a month for your ‘inquiry’ to be finished and delivered. You yelling at myself and the other staff will NOT get the work done any faster. SO please be PATIENT and WAIT until then.  

Angry Voice: The hell! I ordered you to get it done by today, so what, pray tell, have you useless sack of shits been doing! Are you or are you not here to do the will of the Gods, you incompetent fools! I thought lesser beings were supposed to be good a DOING AS THEY’RE TOLD.

*With that alone, whatever goodwill Lorenzo had been feeling dropped like hot lead*

Dae-Hyun: *Mutter* Not this guy again... Stupid younger gods think they run the damn world.

Female Receptionist: Excuse me?! *More stern tone* Listen and listen well MR X, you may be a deity, but the organisation does not bent to your will. Under the agency's roof, you are a client like any other. If you don't like the way in which the organisation conducts its business, you are more than welcome to find another agency. Matter of fact, let me look for one for you now! Or would you like to wait like a ‘Good boy,’ shut up and sit down before I call security!

Dae-Hyun: *Whistle* Dam Angelica’s piiiiiiiiissed.

Lorenzo: *Sarcastically* I never would have guessed. She seems to loooove arrogant morons with literal god complexes. *Gritting his teeth*

Dae-Hyun: Pft.

Younger God: How dare you speak to me like that, you pathetic bug! Do you know who it is you dare disgrace like that?!

*Not about to let the god try anything against the receptionist - it was this attitude that had caused him such hate in the first place, after all - Lorenzo clenched his fist, electricity sparking along his knuckles, but before he could do anything-*

Gruff Voice: Oh please, do tell? If there’s a pathetic bug here, it’s you. First you insult the ones doing YOU a favor, then you have the gall to flaunt your status… you swine! You’re no better than the rest of the mundane beings that we govern….

Younger God: But-!

*Materializing, the disembodied voice gained form: a mature looking gentleman wearing a smart business suit and trench coat, the aged features of his face similar to another man in the lobby*

Gruff Voice: BUT What?

*The older man glared hard, making the air seem heavy.*

Gruff Voice: Look around you, you incompetent swine. Times have changed. They owe us nothing! Nor can they respect us with arrogant simpletons flaunting power. And you call yourself a God… you are a disgrace to the Divine Race.

*With that, a group of agents calmly defused the tension in the room*

Agent: Lord Zeus, please allow us to take over

Zeus: … As you wish.   

*Lorenzo froze, whatever power he had gathered fizzling out almost immediately. Zeus...it was him...A part of him wanted to whirl around and leave right then and there, get away from him as far as he could, but the manner in which he was acting, so different from the god he knew froze him into place, incredulous. Zeus had been scolding another god….for acting exactly how he used to act? It was so hypocritical it made him want to laugh, but at the same time, he had stepped aside when one of the Agents had spoken to him, without any kind of fight.

If felt like he had stepped into some kind of strange hallucination

Even so, he truly did not want to spend time with gods. He didn’t want to test the reflexive urge to yell or strike out, not when the agents only just dealt with one idiot of a deity. As such, he lowered his head, taking a few breaths to steady himself, before murmuring to C with as steady a voice as he could muster.*

Lorenzo: Can we go?

Dae-Hyun: Su-

*Just as Dae-Hyun, was about to finish his comment, the gruff voice of the older Deity spoke, head turning back slightly piercing blue eyes fixed on Lorenzo*

Zeus: Not even a hello to your dear old  father? Surely your mother trained you better than that, boy?

Lorenzo: *Teeth gritted* I owe you nothing. Didn’t you say that yourself? If manners bothered you so much, then perhaps the pot should look at itself before calling kettle black.

Zeus: Yes, you owe me nothing. But a simple greeting does not cost you anything. You’re old enough to know that…. But… I have things to discuss with you and I rather not do it here… Please, this way.

Lorenzo: *Still turned away* I have nothing I wish to say to you, however, not even in greeting, not now. Hopefully never. I’m happy enough if we were to never cross paths. And I would much rather that you kept whatever you wish to say to me to yourself. You lost your chance a long time ago. Still, I, similarly, would rather not cause a ruckus inside Pandora, so if you would go your own merry way then we can both get on with our lives.

*The deity’s eye seemed to twitch at the remark, a small wave of pain stung with each of his seeds words… Taking a breath, he spoke, gesturing towards Dae-Hyun, saying he would be taking Lorenzo for an hour, before taking the demi god’s hand and materializing them both into one of Pandora’s many private conference rooms. Leaning against the door of the room the older god spoke once more.*

Zeus: *Sigh* One hour won't kill you, boy.

*Zeus’ tone was some what gentle, quiet even, his eyes were closed and breathing seemed to be gentler too. Despite this, Lorenzo was shaking with rage at the fact that he had been completely ignored. Not only that but had been taken against his will, but was even blocking the exit. With a yell he wrenched himself away from the god and aimed a punch at him. Of course, even if Lorenzo was stronger and faster than a mundane person, Zeus was still a god. Instead, he shifted only enough that Lorenzo’s punch caused the wood of the door to buckle under his fist, leaving a deep indent that, had the door been any thinner, would have splintered it entirely. Shaking with fury, he locked eyes on the other god, gaze filled with hate*

Lorenzo: See? This is exactly what I mean! You do whatever the hell you want and never listen at all! Don’t you get it already? You are nothing to me! I denounce you! You are no father of mine! I want nothing to do with you! Or is your head so full of lightning and self righteousness that you can’t understand that?! Now move out of the way!

*Wrenching his fist from the door, he attacked him at full force, no longer truly caring about the fact he was in Pandora. He just needed to get out, out now, away from HIM. The strikes were far less coordinated than usual, driven only by a primal urge to get away from what what felt horribly like he had been cornered. Yet Zeus did not strike back, not even when several of his strikes grazed him. It was only when he had landed a solid blow on the god that things suddenly became a blur as Zeus grasped his arm and in a flurry had swing him around, locking his arm behind him so if he tried to wrench it from him or wriggle to get free it caused searing pain through his shoulder.

No, no he didn’t want to be trapped like this! He didn’t even want to recall the last time he had been in such a lock! Hell, he was prepared to tear his own arm off to escape from the god’s hold and leap out of the window, damage to person and property be damned, but Zeus’ hand was wrapped around his forehead, yanking his head back against him, saying nothing, not even as Lorenzo struggled and yelled, nor when he stomped on his feet or zapped him with his power (Zeus was god of lightning, dammit to hell!) nor when he tried for a weapon in his free hand. He barely flinched when Lorenzo grabbed hold of a statue that had sat on a pedestal close by and smashed it backwards over the God’s head, though he moved quickly grabbing at his free arm as well.

Lorenzo quickly tried to get loose now that his head was free, ramming it backwards and ignoring the feeling of stars bursting behind his eyes even as he heard Zeus grunt as skull made contact with his nose. It was just enough that Lorenzo could finally yank free and dart towards the window, ready and willing to dive straight through it, but the god recovered faster than anticipated, grabbing hold of his arms once again and yanking him backwards, enough that Lorenzo was thrown off balance and crashed against his chest. Moments later, the God’s hands were around his wrists once more, crossing his own arms before him.

Yelling and snarling, Lorenzo still fought, Writhing and twisting, kicking backwards on feet, ankles and knees, throwing his head backwards in an attempt to stun Zeus once again, but nothing, nothing was freeing him. But even if it was hopeless, he continued to struggle, struggle until even his stamina had finally run out, leaving him barely able to breathe, wanting to scream and shout, but unable to draw enough air in his lungs to do so, his voice barely coming out louder than a shameful sob*

Lorenzo: Damn you….damn you to hell...damn you….

*A faint trickle of a memory wafted through both of their minds, a time of Lorenzo’s childhood. The God’s next words seemed to echo those faded memories of a happier times, as Lorenzo reluctantly recalled that particular memory. *

--- Memory: Training grounds, Mt Olympus ---

Zeus:  Nice try, boy, but you’re centuries too early to think you can beat me.

12 yr old Lorenzo: Damn it! You’re too strong, old man!

Zeus:  *Chuckle* Uuumm, no, you’re just too weak, my cute little ‘Renze.

12 yr old Lorenzo: Aaaaah! I’ll beat you one day, papa!

Zeus: Oh? And when will that day be? Tomorrow? The next day? Like I said, you’re centuries too early to beat me, ‘Rense. So, as the victor of our little battle, what should I have as my reward?

12 yr old Lorenzo: I-I’m only a kid so, so only something I can give you… ‘an let me go already!!!!

Zeus: Umm, no, not untill I get my reward *grin*

*The God began to tickle and shower the boy with kisses and affection, a gentleness in his eyes… in both their eyes, was prominent. A shared bittersweet memory now.*

--- Present time ---

*Zeus peered into the glasses reflection, seeing the rage in his seed’s eyes. Though fatigued, his eyes seemed to fight. He released him from the binding position he had once held him in and held him from behinds as they both collapsed to the floor. Gently he held him close, giving his head a gentle kiss, the sorrow and pain in his eyes was there for the world to see. At the end of the day, behind Lorenzo, was not a god… but a man… a father who wanted to so desperately rekindle his relationship with the boy who left his side centuries ago.*

Lorenzo:...Stop acting like nothing has changed….You made sure of that a long time ago....So why…? Why do you torture me now? When we both burned our bridges….Do you hate me that much? To try and tear down every barrier I have, only to rend my heart asunder once again?

Zeus: I made a decision based on the circumstances at the time! A decision that would shave many lives at the cost of a few… a...a choice that, as a god, a leader, I stand by. Yet as a man, I regret… that choice ultimately lost me my greatest treasure… the last of my beautiful children.

*The god’s hands begin to visibly shake, as the grip around Lorenzo tightened.*

Zeus: You grow up with hate in your heart, so much so that you even went over to the ‘other side,’ for a time. It hurt me to see you in so much pain. And even when the ‘others’ wanted to give up and punish you, I managed to convince them otherwise…. Just like those down on this plane, I couldn’t give up on you. I couldn’t abandon my sweet boy.

*He kisses Lorenzo’s hair once again, lingering there for a moment*

Zeus: And, even when I could not physically be by your side, I never stopped watching over you. In times of war and peace. No matter what you think of me, no matter how much you despise me! I’m still your father. I still adore my ‘little lightning bolt’. And, even though my  time in this life cycle may be snuffed out tomorrow, I still wish to be by you once more. Not as a god but as a father. That is my one wish…. Selfish, I know…. But…

*The rest of the sentence seem to stick in his throat, the words tapering off as he choked back the tears that were beginning to form. Even so, Lorenzo shook his head harshly, ignoring the tears that had spring in his own eyes, frustration, sorrow and anger all threatening to strangle him, but he forced himself to speak*

Lorenzo: I don’t want a father. I don’t need a father….You and I both know that I would never win out against your so called duty….You should have…..just let those who wanted me dead try to kill me….You should have given up on me, the way I gave up on you a long time ago. And even if you feel it was right…..it still doesn’t fully justify what you did….

*He screwed up his eyes, bowing his head as he lost the fight against his own body, tears beginning to fall.*

Lorenzo: I hate you…..I hate you so much….for so long…..so why…? Why are you breaking my heart all over again…? Why won’t you let me despise you? Stupid….stupid old man….Let me hate you….Let me hate you!

*Letting out a cry of despair, he whirled around punching him in the chest, but there was no strength behind it at all as he instead succumbed to sobbing, curling his hands over his face to hide his shame, brokenly choking out words of hate that sounded more like cries for help*

Gently cupping Lorenzo’s cheeks, hands overlapping his son’s, Zeus gently touches his forehead with Lorenzo’s. There was a warmth between them that hadn't been there in centuries. Though he would never admit it, Lorenzo greatly missed the warmth of those hands, rough and callous from numerous battles but so gentle as they held him and soothed his hair like they did so many years ago. As his consciousness faded from exhaustion, he recalled the rest of that memory…

--- Memory ---

12 yr old Lorenzo: Papa! I’m so mad at you!

Zeus: I’m sorry, my little lightning bolt, won’t you forgive me?

12 yr old Lorenzo: NO!

Zeus: I was busy with work, but i did see your fight with ‘sfdbfnwrk’ though the eye of the fates. I’m so proud of you. I even got you a gift as a reward for winning. Look, its outside.

12 yr old Lorenzo: NO. I’m not gonna forgive you!

Zeus: Aww, man, I guess I’m gonna have to return this beautiful little Pegasus, or should I give it to one of your old-

12 yr old Lorenzo: You got me a Pegasus?!! *eyes sparkling*

Zeus: Oh? Am I forgiven with this?

12 yr old Lorenzo: ...Maybe?

Zeus: *Chuckle* What more could my little prince want?  

*The small boy blushed, remaining silent as his father picked him up and brought him to the winged beast, making sure both the saddle and the small child was secure before looking him in the eyes.*

Zeus: I'm sorry I came so late, little one. There maybe times when I won't be able to be there for you, there may be times when Papa has to act more like a God than a father, but… please understand, you are my world and these are the ones I govern: both equally important to me, but Papa loves you the most, and no matter what, I’ll always be by your side, OK?

12 yr old Lorenzo: Promise? *Holds out a pinky*

Zeus: *Wraps pinky finger around the boy’s* I promise. Even if I come late, I’ll always be there for you my little prince.

12 yr old Lorenzo: Ok *Innocent smile* But when you’re not King of the Gods, your free time is mine, Papa!

Zeus: My, my, how demanding you are! I wonder where you get it from?

12 yr old Lorenzo: *Hold up a small pocket mirror to Zeus and snickers*

Zeus: You cheek devil!

*Both laugh*

--- Memory Ends ---

*As the world around him falls to black, the last thing Lorenzo heard was his father's sorrowful voice.*

Zeus: I’m sorry I came so late… my little prince.

*A knock came from the door, opening slightly as Dae-Hyun entered the room*

Dae-Hyun:  Sorry to disturb you, Sir, but….

*Dae-Hyun  looked upon the site, eyes looking somewhat saddened. For the most part, he had heard their voices though the door; he didn't need to be told. Effortlessly picking up his child, Zeus carried Lorenzo to Dae-Hyun’s room, placing him down on the bed and tucking him in, hand petting the younger man's face.*

Dae-Hyun: You know it's strange?

*Zeus made a quiet sound for Dae-Hyun to continue, though his eyes remained fixed upon his fallen son, absently wiping the wetness of his tears from his cheeks*

Dae-Hyun: I my be speaking out of turn and by all means stop me if I am but… eventually… if we want him to turn ‘back to the light’ his father complex has to be resolved first. There's only so much that the agency can do on our own. You might want to patch things up first. We don't have a lot of time, maybe a few years at best but it may be long enough to at least patch things up… Sir… I’ve been his right hand for a long time now…. Even when we were apart I… not what was remaining of 226 we were all hoping for him to come back to us or at the very least come back to his senses. We don't resent him just like you can't hate him for his treason. You both have a chance to patch thing up so… so don't waste it.

Zeus: I am aware of that...And believe me, I wish to fix things between us, but what was done in the past...it is not something that can just be fixed. Even if, as the God-king of Olympus, my actions for the many are justified, there was still many a wrong done to him. Even so….I don’t think that all is lost between us, either. Do not deny your presence, but you could hear it, couldn’t you? His voice at the end? Even as he denies me, the child of back then, the one who loved me with all his heart, is still there, just under the surface.

*Gently, he brushes a strand of hair from his son’s face, watching as the young man subconsciously shifted his face into it. A slight smile crosses his lips, both fond, yet at the same time sorrowful*

Zeus: Oh, don’t get me wrong. He’ll make me work for it. After all, he is my blood, and just as stubborn as myself. But I believe that one day, we’ll at least be on amicable terms again. Maybe even be father and son once again. But, one step at a time. Rushing will merely push him away, back into ‘His’ hands once again. So, even if time is of the essence, I will be patient.

*He turns to look at Dae-Hyun once more, face serious*

Zeus: I ask of you, Dae-Hyun, will you stand by him? Shield his mind from the darkness that plagues it. There will be times when he will struggle. There will be times when he will resent me and everything. But I believe that, if he knows he has support, feels as though he is not alone in his troubles, then things will turn out for the better. Unfortunately, I know that I will not be able to get through to him alone. Be there for him. Promise me.

Dae-Hyun: Of course. I am his right hand after all *Grin* I know what it’s like to feel alone while being bathed in darkness. It’s maddening. ‘His’ seduction is sweet and gentle but…. His methods are greatly disagreeable. Yes, the world needs to change, especially for us half-breeds. The Man and the Mystic need to be as one once more - that’s the only way any of us will be at peace and ‘He’ will have no power. It’s what we stand for. But we can’t do it alone. I’m no longer up there, so I can only do the rough work down here, but I promise that we will do what we can to be the pillar of light and order, as long as you and your kind be the pillar of truth and give us your blessing.  *Dae-Hyun bows* and, with that, we all can have hope for a better future. Well, that’s what I believe, anyway.

*Zeus chuckled softly, eyes closed, but the smile on his face spoke of relief.*

Zeus: Then I thank you for that. I will do what I can with the gods. It is strange, is it not, how things have changed over time. I’m quite sure that ‘They’ would be laughing at me, if ‘they’ saw me now. Still, ‘they’ had the right idea. I was, back then, merely too blind to see it. Still, better late than never, I suppose.

*He turns his attention back to his so once again*

Zeus: I….loathe to leave him right now, though I wonder, if I were to stay, how would he react?

Dae-Hyun: …. I'd say leave for now - let him process everything then come back… so he knows you haven't abandoned him.

Zeus: I had thought that might be the case…

*Sighing, he stood up, fingers lingering only a little longer at his son’s cheek before finally letting his arm fall to his side. He paused, looking Lorenzo over one last time, before finally tearing his eyes away, nodding to the other agent.*

Zeus: Then….I shall leave him in your care, for now. Until I return, Agent C.

*With that, the god dematerialized, leaving Dae-Hyun and the unconscious Lorenzo alone once more*

Dae-Hyun: … ‘Til then, Sir… *Turning to Lorenzo and sighing* Man, you do not know how fucking lucky or loved you are, do you? Stupid son of Zeus.

*With that Dae-Hyun, flops to his own bed with a sigh, shooting Esta a text before he, too, rested his eyes. He could deal with the list of problems later, but for now let ‘Somnus’ take him away, like his partner, at least for the moment...*

[END]