Journey Home: Road to Redemption Pt 7

Dae-Hyun: I just got some news, ‘Mommy’ just woke up.

*Whatever hint of moodiness that Lorenzo had been supporting before vanished as he looked around, eyes wide for a moment with a type of stunned relief. Quickly he hid it back into his standard neutrality, but it had been there long enough that Dae-Hyun would certainly have made note of it.*

Lorenzo: I….see. What is her condition then? Other than obviously not unconscious any more. Has she said anything?

Dae-Hyun: I dont have the specifics, but is a ‘no visitor,’ type deal. So the only thing we can do right now is just hope she’s recovers as soon a possible… *Sigh*

*Lorenzo closed his eyes. He should have known that would be the case. Just because someone was able to wake up didn’t necessarily mean they were out of danger yet. Then there was potential other complications that could be there, like being awake but not there mentally, or memory loss, or internal bleeding or…..why was Dae-hyun looking like that?*

Lorenzo:....What aren’t you telling me? You know something, don’t you? The way you seem to know everything, there’s no way you wouldn’t. Or is this one of those things where the authority would rather not have the security risk know to much?

*Looking Lorenzo like he was searching for something deep in his soul, Dae-Hyun remaining silent for the moment, before adopting a more serious disposition. Replying with Lorenzo’s question with his own.*

Dae-Hyun: Tell me, are you truly done with Phoenix? Or are you just biding your time?

Lorenzo: I don’t go around lying. I told you, I’m done. Though that doesn’t mean I’ll just join up as a Pandora agent again, either. But I have nothing left with them, either. That bridge is, quite literally, one might say, burned.

*Esta’s eyes seemed to widen in surprise at the conversation that saw going on between the two men. At the time, the relationship between the two men had not been a concern to her. But hearing it now seemed to sway her opinion of the man she recently come to know.*

Dae-Hyun: That’s not good enough, not anymore…. Shit’s beginning to stir, with more of their side effecting ours. And at the end of the day, I need to know…

*Eyes becoming beastial*

When push comes to shove, are you going to stand by US or THEM…?

Lorenzo: Why would I defend the people who outright lied to me? Not to mention that even if I was that insane as to do that again, I turned on them once. I’m their enemy now, like it or not. But if you need true convincing, then while I can’t say I’ll step in for a god, if it comes down to it….I’ll choose you guys. Haven’t you realised yet? If I was going to help them…..why would I have let N or you bring me back here at all? Why haven’t I left yet? If I….if I was never going to help you, don’t you think I’d be gone already? I’m not chained, I’ve left before. In other words, think about it: I wouldn’t be here now if I wasn’t going to help in some way.

*Being somewhat relieved by the Lorenzo’s response, both Esta and Dae-Hyun seemed to let out a breath, in a note that practically said ‘good’.*

Dae-Hyun: …. *Relaxing slightly* Well, thank fuck for that…. I guess we can proceed in telling him, right, Stuart?

Stuart: Indeed. Master Lorenzo, if you will pay attention to your communicator.

*Ah, so it had in fact been one of those ‘security risks can’t know’, though it seemed his word was still good enough - especially since he had quite bluntly pointed out his own habits. Still, he was getting more information now, so he wasn’t going to complain. Doing as asked, Lorenzo pulled out his communicator and flipped it open*

Stuart: I don’t know how much information you’ve been exposed to, so I’ll start at the beginning.  

*Information appears as Stuart begins speaking*

Stuart: In recent months, a number of our agents have been ‘head hunted’ by the Phoenix organisation. That, in turn, has left the agency with a few weak points in both its defence and its intelligence. Then, recently, there was an attempted break in to steal one of the three sacred books. Do you know the one I’m referring to?

Lorenzo: Yes, I know about this. Definitely about the head hunting - it is one of the many reasons why I kept referring to keeping an eye on your agents, even so, no matter the rank. As for the book….yes, I know of the plans for that. There is another of a rank similar to that I held that headed that operation. I’ll give the details later. They’re not someone to take lightly.

Dae-Hyun: Neither are we. Due the suspicions lingering in the organisation, Miss Powell purposely created two new groups before she left - those I’m unable to disclose to you, as you technically do not consider yourself ‘one of us’.  But I will say this: there are a select few people who know of them. There is a code in which only those select people know, and...

Stuart: They relay information and sciences to Madam Povell. They answer only to Madam Povell, and if they find anything or anyone suspicious, they will exterminate it. Be it friend or foe.

*It was fair enough that he couldn’t know about some information. He had expected it, after all. As such he didn’t do anything other than click his tongue absently. Even so, he shifted uncomfortably*

Lorenzo: And….what would happen if the Madam wasn’t trustworthy herself. Everyone has their price, after all. Although having a group answer to more than one person has its flaws as well….Either way, are there contingencies? ‘He’ could get to her too, after all.

Stuart: …. Are you aware of milady's personal life? Well, more accurately, about how she came into the position?  If I remember correctly, by the time you we first drafted as an agent, the story was already becoming something of a company folk law.

Lorenzo: Her past history is not the point, Stuart. I’ve seen it, you know...what he can do. Unless you are going to tell me she has some secret that prevents her from ever being swayed? Because if she has something that can do that, please, enlighten me.

Stuart: It is precisely the point that I bring this up. *Stern tone*

*With this, Stuart seemed to stop the car, flipping a switch that dimmed the ambient light that shone in through the tinted window, casting the car in complete shadow. Flipping another switch, a screen in the center on the car glinted to life. An image of a somewhat archaic portrait dominated the screen. A lone parent with nearly two identical children at his feet. Lorenzo's eyes widened as he noticed the two daughters standing by the older gentleman.*

Stuart: Can you differentiate between the two children?

Lorenzo: Twins…..then isn’t this even more of a security risk? After all, even if one is thought dead at this point….well, didn’t my situation teach anything? But I’m going to assume that you have some reason for showing me this other than to prove my point?

Stuart: It appears that you heard one of the many miss informed tales that went around at the time. In truth, neither of the two died, but there was an apparent betrayal one of the sisters, Marielle, who brought death upon the Powell Family line. She introduced Devour into the home, poisoned the patriarch after he had signed the company off to her sister and then found a way to silence her… by turning into the being they were meant to govern… After she tamed her more beasial form, she cast out her sister form the household.  Over the years, she's tried to cause ‘trouble,’ but nothing to this extent…. There's a theory going around that the current head of Phoenix may in fact be she. I was wondering, did you ever see someone with Madame Povell’s features around during your time… on the other side?

*For a moment, Lorenzo was quiet, trying to put his thoughts into words. Finally, he spoke once more, quietly*

Lorenzo: There’s reasons I kept talking about keeping an eye on things…As for what I saw...A swish of too familiar hair, knowing eyes watching from the shadows, a whispered voice that was familiar, yet not. Does that tell you anything?

Esta: that…. You make her sound like some sort of beast from the bowels of hell! Jeez, Edger Allen Poe, dial it back a bit!

Lorenzo: *Deadly serious tone* I’m not exaggerating.

Esta: Sh~it! Then she general aura juxtaposed to our Lady’s….

Lorenzo: That may be the case, but even then, she has more skills than being ‘creepy’. There is a reason for her holding a high position in the Phoenix ranks. They don’t just place people angry at the gods there, and even just having power isn’t going to cut it. She’s cunning, and then, think about it - if she was able to do what Stuart was saying, then she has to be persuasive, manipulative. If she’s not a consummate actor, or at least have the silver tongue of a devil, then I’ll eat Father’s Master Bolt.

Stuart: Interesting.

Dae-Hyun: Damn, then I think we might just need back up on this. Though I'm not part of her appointed team, I know who are. If anything, I’ll become their informant. I remember that bitch. Though our lady won in the end, she had to go into hiding for a decade. Only Alister and on of there close comrades were allowed to see her.

Stuart: For a moment, we thought we lost her. But in the end, it wasn't enough to best our lady. She is a divine hero, after all. It wouldn't be proper for her to fall that easily.  

Lorenzo: Then when I say ‘keep an eye out for anything strange with the higher ups’, will you do so? I do include her in the equation. And maybe not the Lady herself, but…I’m assuming you understand. You need to be absolutely sure. Even if it’s just an odd blip in behaviour, stay vigilant.

Dae-Hyun: Duly noted. I have a few friends that will cause a bit of… tasteful chaos, should she try anything, same with the new hireup.  Information and technology is something I refuse to let her get her mitts on.

Esta: Same goes for me. My team are harping on the main body of agents, who they draft and the checks are becoming more thorough.  Since the draft new rules, there's been less agents switching sides, though it's slowed the growth of the agents coming in.

Stuart: That's not an issue. We have an abundant reserve for the moment, though with international support, the ‘mundane’ are willing to give use of their soldiers as and when the organisation needs it.

Esta: That's fine. Then I’ll do my best on my end.

*Finally, finally they were understanding his warnings. It was strange how relieved he felt at that, closing his eyes against the tide of emotions that swirled inside. Though he wasn’t sure if they would also connect that as being one of his many, many reasons why Pandora could never be fully open to him again as well. Not his only reason, of course, but a primary one. For now, however, he was satisfied that these three, at least, would be prepared.*

Lorenzo: As long as these people are those you trust, then I have no complaints on that front. I apologies for being unable to say it all up front. I’m afraid that I dont have the same luxury to know who I can risk overhearing, at least not the way you, who interact with everyone so closely, might.

Dae-Hyun: Wait….YOU…. just apologised for something????

Stuart: Excuse me, Master L, but I believe it pigs may fly this evening, so do be careful.

Dae-Hyun:  I know, right? Hahahaha!

Lorenzo: Fine, I take it back then! See if I ever say something like that again! Hmph!

*Sulkily, Lorenzo crossed his arms, turning his head to the direction of the still blackened windows.*

Esta: Oh dear. Don’t mind them, hun, they’re just being teases. Here, take this. *Hands Lorenzo a pile of baked goods* They were for the rabid lion, but I think they will suffice as an apology for those two. *Sweet smile*

Dae-Hyun: Esta~ those were mine!!!

Esta: Your point is, rabid lion!?!? *Growling*

Lorenzo: At least one of you has good manners. You reap what you sow, C. *A mischievous grin crosses his face* You could even say it was….’just desserts’.

Esta: Booooo! *Chuckle*

Dae-Hyun: Dude, that was bad and you know it! Ahahah.

Stuat: *Chuckle*

*Lorenzo merely shrugs and leans back in his seat, pastries in their wrapping on his lap, yet he strangely felt relaxed, despite being the butt of a joke. With the occupants of the car descending into playful banter, Stuart merely smiled, flicked the switches to allow the car proper internal lighting once more and turned his full attention back to the road. They would be at the academy soon enough*

[END]

Journey Home: Road to Redemption Pt 6

*After what seemed to be a rowdy evening of bantering between the next day seemed to start of relatively tame, Esta had come early in the morning the prepare the morning meal.  As the two men were awake greeted by the smell of French Toast and ground coffee.*

Lorenzo *Somewhat sleep blearily as he pulls coffee to himself* Miss Esta, you’re an angel.

Dae-Hyun: Hey man don’t steal my lines before i can say it damn it!

Lorenzo: Mgh...

*Without the energy to argue, he instead had most of his focus on his coffee instead, cradling it as if it were Ambrosia instead.*

Esta: Now, now boys, no fighting in the morning. Now, where’s this coat you were on about? We have a few hours before we have to head in, so I’d like to get it out of the way.

*Rubbing sleep from his eyes, Lorenzo blindly reached over to where he had draped the coat the day before and handed it over to her, even though the brief look he gave to the material itself was conflicted between disdainful, yet longing.*

Lorenzo: Will the measurements you took for our previous outfits be sufficient?

*Eyeing the item slightly and then Lorenzo, Esta sighed before handing it back.*

Esta: Usually yes, but not this time. I’m going to need to tailor it on you. The material is, well… a rarity. I won't be able to have another shot say if something goes wrong. Get ready and I’ll do the best I can to scale it down. Would you like the same design or would you like me to come up with something?  

Lorenzo: You haven’t let us down on your recommendation of clothing the previous time we met. I’ll leave such alterations to you. All I know is that it should be capable of being worn in potential battle scenarios, so nothing too extravagant.

Esta: Sure. On that note, get ready, quickly. And, as for you, rabid lion, here’s my bill for ‘last time.’

*Ignoring any complaints that Dae-Hyun was bound to launch, whether or not he took the bill, Lorenzo did as indicated and, once ready, awaited the necessary job of being Esta’s mannequin for the alterations*

Esta: Now that the mangy lion is out of the room…

*She assist Lorenzo in wearing the coat, eyeing him for a moment, trying not to grin slightly*

Esta: Oh dear. That piece seems to be wearing you, not the other way around, huh?  

Lorenzo: *Eyebrow twitching* So I’ve been informed. I’m assuming with that being the case you have enough material to make the necessary adjustments?

Esta: And then some. *Chuckle* Now hold still.

*A second pair of disembodied hands wrapped into view one with scissors, another fetching a bag Esta had brought in while the boys were sleeping. She seemed nonchalant as the hands dropped the bag by her feet.*

Lorenzo: Huh….is that personal magic or, excuse me if I sound ignorant, part of your race’s abilities, Miss Esta? Whichever it is, it seems quite useful.

Esta: *Chuckle* Did you forget that I’m a Jorogumo? Like demons, there are some that look and act more beastly and others, like me, who, for the most part, are ‘human’ with the abilities of our beastial counterparts. I’m just lucky that the most my bloodline could produce was disembodied hands. I still shed ever now and then, which gives me the blessing of youth, but... Oh, and if you were wondering, no, I don’t ‘eat’ my partners, though I am obsessed with cooking hahaha.

*Her hands seems to move like magic, creating a coordinated symphony of fabric, snipping of sizzers and drawn thread. The coat seemed to shrink and mold itself to Lorenzo as she worked.*

Esta: ...Though that all counts for naught when, as soon as people learn what I’m descended from, they turn and run… Most Jorogumo I know don’t feast on human flesh, or our partners, for that matter, unless the extreme happens and even at that... *Sad smile* Oh, turn around. I’m going to update the insignia on the back to match Zeus’…. But I’m kind of feeling the distressed look it got right now. One sec, I’m going to get a little…. Handsy with you for a moment.

*All four of her hands set to work emblem the back of the coat, bringing back the like into the piece, and making final aesthetic touches as well. Finally, with one last tug of the needle, the revived coat was done. Quite magnificent in all its glory. Thought its original cut was gone and a newer style was now in its place, Esta had somehow kept the the feel of its original concept intact. She could see its sentimental value and wanted to let that shine through at least a little.*

Esta: The mirror’s over there. Take a look.

*Having been a little on edge about it since she mentioned wanting to put Zeus’ mark on there (he might be learning to recall the good times with his father, but he was by no means ready to consider the two of them on amicable terms yet), Lorenzo quickly made his way to the mirror and checked the back, first and foremost. True, there was a lighting bolt on there, but it wasn’t quite the same as Zeus. It was a emblem that had a more ‘earthy’ feeling to it, as if it was somewhat tarnished, and it felt less ‘Zeus’ and more him, instead. He couldn’t help but sigh in relief at that. The last thing he needed was more references to being ‘son of Zeus’, but this way one could just think it was due to his own lightning affinities.

Inspection of the back done, he took a little longer to look at the coat in its entirety and was pleased with what he could see. Even better, he no longer looked like he was a child playing dress up.*

Lorenzo: My lady, you are indeed a miracle worker. You have my thanks. Although….thanks does not pay your bill. How much do I owe you, my friend?

Esta: *Coy gaze while tapping fingers on her lips* ...Oh, I could think of a number of ways you could repay a lonely girl like me… but I’ll settle for info.

*Esta looked down at the floor. There were still panels of excess fabric scattered around examining it and setting to work again making a both a wallet and watch. Before placing them both down on the table for Lorenzo to equip later.  *

Lorenzo:....What kind of information are you looking for?

*He turns to her, face a little on the stoic side, but thankfully not entirely blanking her. He was still quite willing to hear her out.*

Lorenzo: After all, there may be things I know. There may not be.

Esta: *Chuckle* You know, that stoic side of you is really attractive, right?  ‘N’ don’t worry, it’s nothing major. I just want to know how you’re settling in at the school. I heard you and the kids are ‘cute’ together. They even sent you ‘gifts’ hahaha.

*Lorenzo rolled his eyes a little, blankness breaking slightly as he relaxed a little, fine to grant that information to the woman*

Lorenzo: As well as can be, I suppose, when I was thrown into the job with no prior warning and without even having the official qualifications. They’ve yet to kill me, I’ve yet to kill them, and C has yet to have a nervous breakdown between the lot of us. Although….

*He glanced away for a moment, a moment of uncertainty crossing his face before it was gone*

Lorenzo:....I don’t know how to describe it. I hate it, honestly, and yet….It’s….there’s something else there to. I just can’t put it to words yet. I feel like I’m on the edge of something, but what it is…..well, I’ve only been there a short time. Since I have no choice but to continue for the time being….we’ll see. Hopefully none of us will end up snapping before then.

*He laughs, putting his face in one hand*

Lorenzo: It’s kind of funny, you know? If this was monitored by the government as it’s meant to, there’s no way I’d be permitted around children. I’d be thrown into a psychiatric ward sooner than being permitted to be around them. How C convinced anyone this was a good idea….Ha!

Esta: …. I’ve noticed a few things since we met…. One, you have an obvious complex that even the blind can see. Two, you don’t know how to fully trust and believe in those around you. Three, you’re always putting yourself down. Four, you’re now beginning to regain a purpose and five, you seem to be having fun. Seriously, sometimes I really want to hug you and other times I wanna shove a bottle of Prozac down your throat so you can lighten the hell up and chill out.  

*Unable to help himself, Lorenzo laughs at the last comment. He thought he might need a bit more than that, but even so, it was still funny to him. Smiling and shaking his head, he continues to hear her out.*

Esta: Now, I’m not saying be like the rabid lion, but, seriously, all the tension you have is gonna lead to health issues when you’re older. Trust me, I should know! Long story short, if you ever need the hook up, I’m there. Just kidding, but if you need someone to vent to, I’m always around.  I’m either in the textiles block or the catering block, as I’m head of both in the academy, so yeah. *Smile*

*For a moment, Lorenzo is quiet. Finally, he gives her a small smile.*

Lorenzo: I think it’s a little late on the ‘health issues’ front, but...thank you. For the offer, I mean - of venting, not the other one. I’ll...think about it. Who knows, maybe one day I’ll even take you up on it. Though, as you say, I have trust issues, so...don’t be too upset if it takes me a while. But one day.

Esta: That's all I ask, hun. Now lets eat!

*After a short while, the table is set and Dae-Hyun returns with phone in hand. Laughing slightly*

Esta: What? Hurry up and eat already, we’re leaving soon.

Dae-Hyun: Yeah, yeah. I just got a message from Zeus… he said you look adorable in new coat. He also said this is his new wall paper.

*Picture of Lorenzo laughing wearing the trench coat, from his conversation with Esta earlier. Lorenzo’s expression turned stony at that and turns his head away*

Lorenzo: He’s a stalker. Tell him to fuck off.

Esta: Sounds like a overly doting father to me, ‘n’ I won’t lie, your smile is adorable hun.

Lorenzo: A doting father who is not in the room, let no one know he is there and can somehow take a photograph? No, I see stalker. Just because I’m fine to take the coat, doesn’t mean that we’re suddenly on good terms again. I’m certainly not close enough to him again to appreciate him taking unknown photographs of me. Especially without my knowledge.

*A buzzing sound emits from Dae-Hyun’s communicator*

Dae-Hyun: *Chuckle* Pft! He said there’s nothing wrong with a ‘papa’ taking photos of his little lightning bolt. He used to do it all the time and he said he won’t stop anytime soon. AND that your still cute when you’re asleep. Here’s proof

*Image of Lorenzo sleeping in his pajamas.*

Lorenzo: *looks at the photograph for a long moment, before gracefully standing* I changed my mind. I’m defecting. I’m bringing Olympus down on everyone’s heads and stabbing him with a lightning bolt just to prove I am not happy with this. I will laugh over his body. *Ains towards the door*

*Communicator buzzes once more*

Dae-Hyun:  Oh, he sent a video clip. *Plays Video*

*Video*

Zeus: Morning ‘Renze! I must say, you were right, it does look better on you than me. Oh, and if you're really planning to fight me…. Well you still have a a few sever hundred millennia to go before you even scratch me. Love you n have a good day at work. *Winking and blows kiss*

*Losing whatever humour he had in the situation, Lorenzo snarls and launches a lightning bolt at the communicator, shattering it into pieces in the other agent’s hands. Glaring, he throws the door open and storms off. He is not happy at the god spying on him. He hadn’t even fully forgiven the god and he just assumes that it was ok to do something like that? He was angry enough he even considered dumping the coat as well, but Esta had put effort into it to make it his. As such, he kept that, if only to spite the man. However, he was certainly not going to just be ok with the god blustering back into his life as if he had been an unruly child who only needed a wrist slap and things went back to normal. Hate ran through him again, however, he dug his nails into his palms to avoid throwing any more lightning around in a fit of temper.

He didn’t slow down until he had reached a quiet room in headquarters, doing his best to get some kind of control over himself again, ignoring the faint wetness in his palms where his nails had dug a little too hard into skin, absently noting that he was crackling a little with electricity.

The lights flickered off.

….Oops. Looks like he shorted the fuse.

Hugging himself tightly in an effort to calm himself, he screwed his eyes shut and forced himself to breathe through the rage. Cautiously, the door opened and a regal looking man seemed to glide in the room. Carrying both a book and a necklace in hand. He strode towards Lorenzo, before stopping and sharply striking the demigod on the head with the book in question.*

Regal man: You know, you take his jokes waaay to seriously, right? He's just overly excited to have his favorite son back. Just ignore him. Dummy!

*Flinching away from the other for a moment, not wanting to accidentally spark the other man, Lorenzo took a few steps back, still hugging himself, but less out of controlling rage and more out of a kind of self comfort*

Lorenzo:....That’s not why I’m mad, Perseus. And he doesn’t have anyone back. He should know that. I don’t want him in my life like that….There’s too much between us for me to ever be happy about him being so….interfering. I want everyone to just leave me alone. Especially him. *He hugs himself tighter* I know, you’re going to scold me, tell me I’m an idiot and forgive him already, just like everyone else. But I just can’t do that, ok? So…spare me the lecture, brother.

Perseus: You’re right, you are an idiot. I’m glad you acknowledged it. You’re both as stubborn as each other, thick headed as each other and annoying as each other. Almost an exact clone in every way but one… and that’s why this is going to be hard. So, no, I won’t ask you forgive him. Not now, anyway, but soon someday soon. While this version of him is still around.

Believe it or not, by the time you were born, he...got better as a father, at least. Now, he’s not gonna win father of the year award, but he got better…. *mumble* He actually stuck around till you became a man, unlike the rest of us…. But… at least...at the very least TRY and let things go. It’s how ‘He’ got a hold of you in the first place. The last thing I want you to do is fall back into his grasp, eh?

Anyway, I’m on a timer. I’m managing one of his companies now, so I’ll give you a gift from me. Big brothers jealous that ‘Renzie only got a gift from ‘papa’.

*Places the necklace around Lorenzo’s neck. The pendent seems to hang just above where his navle would be. Perseus checks Lorenzo over, before healing his slightly bloodied hands. The wounds didn't seem too deep.*

Perseus: Calm yourself before you go back. And… as cliche as it sounds, cherish the time you have left, with the ones you care about, even divine beings such as us and our forbears aren't immune to death's door. That old fool especially.

*Lorenzo just shakes his head, not really wanting to hear him say it*

Lorenzo: Why does everyone think I’ll care if he dies? Everyone keeps making it out like I’m supposed to be this perfect person that can just let things go, that I’ll just…..be that person again. I’m not!

*He covered his ears and slides down the wall, having finally just reached his limit on this for the day*

Lorenzo: I’m not, ok? I’m not! Please…..please stop….acting like I’m that person, Like I’ll care about any of this. I….I just…

*He takes a shuddering breath*

Lorenzo: ….Just…..tell him to stay out of my life, ok? If he dies and we don’t reconcile, then that’s my burden to bear. But at the same time, if we do become even moderately friendly again, I want it on my own terms. Not because I’m being pushed by people who think they know better, or because Zeus is jumping the gun. Maybe it’s not logical. Maybe it’s stupid. But I’ve not seen anything clearly for some time, ok? I’m not ready yet.

*He ducks his head to his knees*

Lorenzo: Not yet…but someday. At least…..try to get him….to understand that. Give me time to learn not to hate him…

Perseus: *Sigh*  SINCE YOU’RE WATCHING THIS, FATHER, I WON’T WASTE MY BREATH. *Look down at Lorenzo, before sighing once more*  You both are fools: the fool desperately trying to chase and protect his child, and the other, younger idiot, stuck in his own world of self hate. At this point in time, I can’t do anything for you both, because it starts with you, kid, and YOU GIVE HIM A BREATHER! I KNOW YOU’RE HAPPY TO HAVE HIM BACK ,GEEZ! A pair of flawed, foolish fellows aren’t you…? *Strokes Lorenzo’s Head.*  Now, pull yourself together. You can’t have your ‘cute students’ seeing their cool teacher like this no? Oh no, that simply won’t do.

*A soft glow emits from the pendent, as Perseus turns to leave. The light seems to have a calming effect on the younger demigod.*

Perseus:  One more thing, read the book. It's shitty… but it’ll help.

*With that Perseus left the younger brother alone in his thoughts. For a while, Lorenzo doesn’t move, just allowing himself to feel the calming effect from the pendent, slowing his breathing and soothing the raw edges of his mind. Eventually, however, he tiredly lifts his head to glance at the book Perseus left him, before snorting slightly at the title. Even so, he pulls the book to him and holds it to his chest anyway. He wants to stay in there for a while longer, to let himself have the time to fully compose himself, but he knows he won’t be allowed. Classes will be starting soon enough and C would never permit him time. He just hopes the raw state he was in didn’t cause him to go on a genocidal rampage or do something else he might regret. However, he is used to pushing through, even when he felt his worst (and, thankfully, the pendent made sure this certainly wasn’t the worst he had felt). S,o he forced himself back to his feet, tucking the book away from view - thankfully the coat had deep pockets - and made himself head out towards the car. Dae-Hyun would eventually find him there, he supposed. However, he was pretty much determined not to talk about what happened. He was too tired for another emotional breakdown.

*A short time later, both Esta and Dae-Hyun left the grounds and headed toward the car. Stewart had the door waiting for them, while Esta gave out the files for the day. Both Dae-Hyun and Esta seemed to be avoiding the subject. They had notice a certain demigod exiting the lobby and noted a younger demigod’s demeanor. The picture was clear, even if they didn't have all the details, it was best not to press it for the moment, they thought.*

Dae-Hyun: I just got some news, ‘Mommy’ just woke up.

[END]

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]