Glass Wings - Novel

[Adianoeta]

Chapter 1:
Past and Present

It is difficult to say how the whole fiasco began yet it is safe to presume that it was before the ages of the Angels and the Rebels. No one may know how the people were able to control the elements or use magic. No one may know how the Angels had grown wings and acquired the ability to become invisible. But people will know the story of a certain Angel and a certain Rebel that changed their world. Change for better or change for worse? It all depends on the eye of the beholder.

***************

All was silent as usual in the streets. The breeze gently rustled the leaves on the autumn trees. Debris from the day danced across the empty plaza. It was midnight, an hour past curfew. Only the Street Patrols were out. Or, at least, they should be the only ones out. Flitting through a dark alley was an unseen figure. As it rounded the corner, a dark blue orb floated by and the person was forced to shrink behind several crates to hide from detection.
“Close call. Rebels must be getting smarter; they stopped making them bright red. I wonder what other revisions they made. Isabella might find this amusing.”Upon the discovery of the better-camouflaged watch crew, Thomas paid more attention in making his way back to their hideout. Although he was invisible to the naked eye, the Rebels had newly created orbs that worked via heat sensors. The mechanism just tuned itself to find people sized glows of warmth. Thanks to some traitor Angels, traveling after curfew turned to be more difficult than it used to be several years back. Just awhile back, they still had Rebels out on the streets with their movement detecting flashlights. An owl flew by and the thing would go off. No one would have guessed that in a mere year or so, they would be employing their magic to do their dirty work.
Tan feathers from his wings ruffled lightly as the wind whispered through the air. Brushing back the brown wavy hair that sometimes obstructed his view; he took a running start and vaulted over a brick wall. Landing nimbly on his feet like cat, he made his way to an abandoned building which he and his friends called home.
He opened the backdoor and reached for one of the candles they usually kept at the door. He then proceeded to find the small matchbox and extracted a match. He struck the match once but the dampness hindered his progress to light it. He tried to light it again, but to no avail. After repeatedly striking the match several more times, he heaved a sign. Muttering out of frustration, he made the movement to strike it again. The match finally caught fire and he lit the candle; illuminating the darkness inside with light.
In the pale light of two candles sat Isabelle. She was in their living room, seated in the pale blue recliner as usual, the one that the others jokingly referred to as “Isabelle’s Throne”. It was her favorite because of its calm color, it had often reminded her of something or perhaps of someone. She argued that it was comfortable, and it was, but she had forgotten the real reason why she felt comfortable in that chair. Just like how she had forgotten if her name really was Isabelle. Either way, there she sat with a small smile on her face. She was looking down at a pair of old, worn gloves. The gloves had not only warmed her hands but also warmed her heart.
A few years or so ago, when Belle and the other young Angels were able to hide easier with the other rebels, they usually did most of their work in the day. Belle sat within the huge crowd of people at the giant fountain. She was waiting for news on the twins and their mission. Christopher and Katherine were late and she was getting worried. It was cold that day and long coat she wore only partially blocked out the freezing breezes. She shivered, blew into her hands and sighed. A boy about her age, if not older, turned and offered a friendly but shy smile.  

[Adianoeta]

He had sparkling blue eyes and a tangle of golden hair under a baseball cap turned backwards. It was by shorter than Isabelle’s hair but longer than that of most boys.
“Cold isn’t it?” he said casually.
“Yes. Abnormally so,” she replied and offered him a smile.
“I know. The weather caught everyone off guard.”
Now that he mentioned it, it seemed everyone was rushing about faster than normal, probably to avoid staying outdoors. There was an awkward silence as the wind blew harshly by. He watched her tuck a strand of long black hair back behind her ear. She smiled and broke the silence. “For Christmas I’m going to ask my friends for a pair of gloves. My hands are freezing.” She blew on her hands again.
“Here, you can have these,” he said as he took off the pair of fingerless black gloves he was wearing and handed them over to her.
“Are you sure? Won’t you be cold?” Yet, she had already made the movement to accept them.
“I’ll be fine. Besides, look what I can do.” Eager to show off, he cupped his hands together and concentrated. His lips slowly moved, forming unheard words. Slowly, a small ball of fire burned between his hands.
“Doesn’t that burn?” she asked bemused but slightly worried at the same time.
“Not really. You can touch it if you want.”
Tentatively, she reached over and carefully poked the fire between his hands. “Interesting. It’s as warm as if you were near a furnace but it doesn’t burn at all.”
“I know, I learned this from my brother’s textbook. It’s advanced elementals. Above the level of the rest of my classmates. What level are you?”
Luckily, two friends of his spotted him, saving Belle from inventing a lie on the spot. He closed his hands together to put out the tamed flame and stood up to leave. She made the movement of returning his gloves.
“It’s alright. You can keep them. I’m sure we’ll meet again… I’m sorry. I didn’t catch your name.”
“Isabelle.”
“That’s a nice name. Well Miss Belle, I’m sure I’ll see you again. The world is only so big.” He ran to catch up with his friends.
“Wait. What’s your name?”
He turned back only for a second. “Jonathan.” He smiled and then ran off. She followed him with her eyes until she lost him in the crowd.
“Jonathan.”
A younger voice interrupted her thoughts. “Say. What was that about?” Innocent brown eyes looked at her quizzically.
“Nothing Chris. Where’s your sister.”
“I’m here Belle,” said a young girl standing next to her brother. “Was that a Rebel boy? He was kind of cute.”
“Doesn’t matter Kathy. Let’s go home.” She stuck her hands deep in the coat pockets and they linked arms. Jonathan’s gloves were still on her hands. A smile was still on her face.
Isabelle flipped one of the gloves over and looked at the tag inside. In black ink, the name “J K” was inscribed. If only things were as easy as they were a couple years ago. She never told anyone how she got these gloves.  

[Adianoeta]

And Katherine was right. He was kind of cute. But he was also dangerous. He was now no longer the shy, kind boy at the fountain. He was the family son of one of the prominent leaders of the Rebels. The Rebels that wanted all the Angels gone. Dead or alive.
“Daydreaming again Isabelle?” Thomas’s voice slightly startled her. He “appeared” next to her. Sarcasm thickly coated his words. “You’re losing your touch. But then again, a floating candle is pretty hard to notice.”
“I was thinking, sorry,” she said, not the least bit sorry.
“Thinking? That’s a first. So what’s for dinner? How about you think up some sandwiches and maybe a giant chocolate cake for dessert?” He put his candle with Isabelle’s and plopped down on the nearby couch in the dark corner. Even with his head on one of the dark red armrests of his self-claimed sofa, his feet would barely rest on the other side.
“It’s the Twin Terrors’ turn to cook this week. My duty’s next week.” She glanced toward their kitchen. “It’s surprisingly quiet in there. I think they might have left to try and sneak some food from that new restaurant down the block.
“Well, they might want to be more careful. There are only a couple Patrol Orbs out there that aren’t bright red now.”
“Isn’t that nice. I think the only reason they were red before was to let people know that they’re watching. I guess it finally occurred to them that they’ll always be Angels out and they might as well try to catch them by being stealthy.”
The front door creaked open and footsteps were heard.
Belle quickly closed her mouth as Thomas silently moved into a more defensive position.
“We’re back,” someone sang in a singsong voice. Both the elder Angels relaxed.
“And we’ve got pizza!” said another voice, equally playful.
Tom bounced off his couch/bed, “Took you long enough. As if midnight isn’t late for dinner already,” he said as he opened the box Kathy held in her hands. It opened and unfolded like an accordion. The box held 3 layers of 3 different pizzas. “Nice. Double cheese.” He plucked a cheesy slice from the top layer and happily munched away.
“Ick. You don’t happen to have a veggie combo, light cheese, would you?” asked Belle.
“Picky picky. Beggars can’t be choosers you know,” replied Chris as he helped himself to the pepperoni and meatball pizza in the middle. “Bottom layer. Pretty cool huh? The place was empty so we decided to help ourselves. And look, chocolate cake! That place sells everything.”
Isabelle and Thomas looked at each other and started laughing.
“What?” asked Katherine as she lit another candle and retrieved some plates and a knife from the kitchen.
“Nothing. Let’s hope they stay open for a really long time. Did you run into any trouble?” Thomas asked as he served himself another slice.
“No, but they changed the Orbs,” mumbled Katherine, pulling on a long strand of cheese. “Transparency tricks won’t help now, I think they upgraded to heat sensors too.”
“Ugh, fantastic,” said Isabelle as she started cutting and distributing the cake. “Well. That just means we need to find another way to trick them.”
“After,” said Thomas, after he swallowed a bite of cake. “After we go and crash their lovely Masquerade Ball tomorrow.”
Over pizza and cake in candlelight, the group happily discussed possible plans to make the Mid-Autumn Masque Ball the most memorable event of the year.  

[Adianoeta]

Midnight Masquerade

The clock tower in the east chimed six times; the hollow ringing echoed through the deserted town. The townspeople old and young alike had migrated towards the Kalethey mansion for the First Annual Mid-autumn Masquerade. The Kalethey family was a prosperous and well-known family of Rebels. To further fuel their popularity among the census, the mother and son had decided to hold an autumn ball. Invitations were dispersed to other important families a week before it was publicly announced. Posters were placed on walls and posts, banners hung between trees and buildings.
Mr. Kalethey did not and could not contribute. Mr. Kalethey had disappeared. Mr. Kalethey was as good as dead, supposedly killed by the Angels. The Angels were bad. The Angels were hated. Supposedly, all captured Angels claimed they knew nothing about Mr. Kalethey.
While the Rebels were meeting, so were the Angels. The names “Angels” and “Rebels” are quite misleading and somewhat ironic in a way. The Angels were called Angels because of their wings, obviously. But unlike the stereotypical image, few angels had white wings and many were less than angelic in personality. The Rebels were the original inhabitants of the country whereas the Angels had migrated down from their original home in the North. A small chain of mountains and a vast forest served as the imaginary boundary between the two original civilizations. It was heard that many Rebels had tried to venture into Angel land and many had succeeded in creating a life there. Several outcast and exiled Angels tried to do the same in the Rebel towns but as their name suggested, they rebelled. Since the Angels could not return and they did not wish to try and carve a niche for themselves in the wild, they had no choice but to settle down with the Rebels to try and rationalize with them.
The situation was unstable as it was and the tension between the two groups in the Rebel towns grew. In one certain incident several years back, a peaceful protest turned bloody by an accidental gun discharge. Chaos broke out and nothing has been the same since then. Angels sold each other out, Rebels betrayed their Angel friends. Captured Angels were put into detainment centers where they would be held until the Rebels could take them back through the forest and over the mountains. So said the government. In reality, no one knows where prisoners are taken or whether they leave at all.
In other cases, Rebels tried surgically removing wings of Angels who had voluntarily turned themselves in to the officials. With those wings, several Rebel spies opted to have wings surgically implanted to blend in with the Angels. Few implants were successful. Out of every ten or so Rebel Changed, more than half the Rebels would die from infection or from the parts rejecting the new body. It was rumored that the younger the recipient, the higher the rate of mortality aversion.
For a short period of time after the protest, the Changed Campaign was developed and promoted. Doctors had claimed that the removal process was quick and relatively painless. However, many were misinformed for when the patient awoke from the anesthesia, they were in great pain for several weeks unless medication was prescribed. In many cases, they weren’t. The Angels also were not aware of the mortality rate caused by the surgery. Yet, in the beginning, occasional spurts of Angels would show up in designated clinics for the procedure. Being part of the Changed was slightly better than being an Angel, but better nevertheless.
From those who survived the surgery, many went through schooling to learn the techniques of employing ‘magic’. But not everyone could properly work the spells or stand the immense alterations in their life. Every now and then, an Angel Changed would go back to the group he or she originally left. The intruding Angels divided themselves into groups for several reasons.  

[Adianoeta]

In the event that one group was captured, they would not endanger the rest of the Resistance. The different groups only knew two or three other teams. The group leaders would meet with one another on a monthly basis in different locations at different times. There is no record of all the members for that would be too dangerous, but it was estimated that for every fifteen or so Rebels in the nation, there were two Angels and one Changed.
Another reason for this arrangement is that multiple “attacks” could occur simultaneously. The Rebels would be held between a rock and a hard place to decide which riot should be put down first. More than anything, the Angels’ main focus was to make their race present and their case heard. Their movements were quick and stealthy, like guerilla warfare in a simpler and less violent manner. Unfortunately, with about ten Angels in a group, the damage could be controlled and cleaned up after several hours.
The demonstration planned for the Masque Ball however, had been discussed several times and was likely to cause a stir among the Rebels. Half of the group leaders in town had met in the old Greenfield Square to discuss the evening’s events. Andrew, a Changed and the leader of Isabelle’s group had called a meeting inside of his own hideout. At thirty, he was one of the oldest members of the group. He had cold gray eyes and his blonde hair was cut in a short and shaggy style. His deep, calm voice had the feel of order and it instantly commanded the attention of the other seven members.
“As you all well know, tonight is the Mid-Autumn Masquerade. Tonight we will be staging an important stepping stone in our freedom.” He paused to let the message sink in and slowly scanned at everyone across the small, deserted room. “I spoke with the captains of groups B, C, D, and E and it has been decided that our group will split in half for this mission.”
“Christopher and Katherine,” he nodded at the thirteen year olds. “We need you guys to provide a brief… distraction out on the main entrance. Do whatever you need to but try not to harm too many people. We just need an abrupt ‘stir of events’ around 10 o’clock or so. Be creative.” The twins smiled at each other devilishly.
“Belle, Tom and Matt, you guys will be in charge of kidnapping Mrs. Kalethey’s son. There’s no rush, extract him when he’s the least noticeable. Needless to say, keep him alive. For your own safety, we will not reveal the reason why we need this boy. ”
Isabelle and Thomas both warily eyed each other. Matt was an unwanted addition to their team.
He turned to the group of teenagers. “Belle, Matt, and Thomas,” he said as he acknowledged each person individually. “I leave the planning of this to part of the mission for you three to discuss. Thomas is in charge since Isabelle planned the last outing. Henry, Madeline and myself will be discussing the other part of our mission.”
Henry and Madie, both in their thirties nodded at each other.
“Good. Let’s make this meeting short. Matt will be staying at your hideout for the duration of this mission,” he directed at Isabelle. “Matt, whenever it’s safe and you have the chance, go grab some of your belongings from your hideout. A couple days worth of materials at most. Dismissed and good luck.”
Saying quick goodbyes, the group separated and headed down the hallway to a flight of stairs as the three older members began to discuss their part in the mission. Matthew, a tall boy with sleek brown hair and a demeanor dripping with charm and, oddly, arrogance, unhappily followed Isabelle and her troop out the door of Andrew’s apartment. “I don’t see why Tom is allowed to be leader. I’m the oldest.”  

[Adianoeta]

“Then stop whining and acting like you’re the youngest,” replied Isabelle as she folded her gray wings and donned on a large sweater. “For crying out loud, you’re barely eighteen and Tom’s seventeen. A seven month difference, get over it.”
“Whatever you say Belle,” said Matt, temporarily defeated.
“Kathy, Chris. Be careful. We’ll meet you back at base after midnight or so.”
“Got it Belle. Be safe yourself,” said Kathy
Silently, the group walked down the stairs. Isabelle and Tom peeked their heads out of the front door and gave Chris and Kathy the go ahead. The twins took a look themselves and then bolted into the air, all while slowly disappearing before their eyes.
Matt gave Tom a quizzical look.
“Too many people walking at together draws attention,” said Tom as he put on a trench coat. “Too many varying air currents also draws attention,” Tom said as Matt started to unfold his wings.
“Fine,” said Matt somewhat morosely as he donned on a hooded sweatshirt. He caught up to Isabelle and said. “So. Since this is a masquerade and a costume ball, shouldn’t we go together? You know. As a cover.” He flashed Belle a charming smile as Tom pantomimed throwing up behind his comrades.
Not wanting to be too hurtful Isabelle said simply. “We’ll see. But you do have a point. We’re going to need proper attire and masks for this occasion. I suggest we take a trip to Old Man Hobbs’s,” she said as she took a quick left right turn and almost walked into a shocked Matt.
Old Man Hobbs’s real name was Hubert but everyone called him Old Man Hobbs because he was old, he was a man, and for reasons unknown, he lost his left foot and hobbled around on a peg leg and crutch. He was a Changed, like Andrew and he owned a thrift shop, Knick Knack Paddy Whack, which both Angels and Rebels bought from. Old Man Hobbs was a nice; generally quiet man who didn’t support either Angels or Rebels but loved helping out Belle’s team because he found the trouble they stirred to be amusing.
The trio opened the door to Hobbs’s quaint shop. A bell above the door tinkled upon their arrival. Kitten Caboodle jumped off the on the right counter, mewed and welcomed the group. Despite his name, he was just as old as his owner.
“Mr. Hobbs!” called Belle. The lights weren’t on in the shop, so the only light coming through shone from the glass window behind them. Particles of dust could be seen floating through the air.
“Back here!” called a voice from the storage room behind the counter. Tom vaulted over the cash register and Matt followed suit. Isabelle rolled her eyes and took the conservative path, lifting up a panel on the left and walked through.
“Sorry folks, I was planning to close early. The Masquerade is in two hours and oh! Tom and Belle. How are you two rascals?” Old Man Hobbs stepped out from behind a giant crate of boxes and hobbled over to welcome the two with a hug.
“We’re okay,” said Tom as he plucked a neon pink feather from the elder man’s gray hair. “How about you?”
“Busy, busy, busy,” he replied. “So many people are coming in last minute for accessories for their outfits. This lady that was here ten minutes ago was looking for a pink feather boa and a demonic looking pitchfork.”  

[Adianoeta]

Isabelle looked at him quizzically.
“Don’t ask because I don’t know. Why, it seems you brought a friend,” he said as he scrutinized Matt.
“This is our friend Matt,” said Isabelle. “He’s always been a part of our group.” Matt gave a sheepish smile and nodded at the acknowledgement.
“Oh. I see.” The hidden meaning of group was clear to Hobbs. “So, what can I do for you kids?”
“Well Mr. Hobbs. We need some costumes and masks. We’re going to the Masquerade too.”
“Well, is that so?” He laughed and then spontaneously started to cough. “Ahem. Well, why don’t you look around and we’ll ah… add it to your tab?”
“Thanks Mr. Hobbs,” said Tom. Mr. Hobbs and the kids all knew that there was no “tab” and that simply meant that they should return the items when they were done with them. If the items happened to be lost or damaged, they would owe him one day of work in the shop, doing chores such as dusting and sweeping.
“No problem kids, there are things in the front and some more junk in this back room. Call if you need anything.”
“So, what should I dress up to be?” inquired Thomas he walked to the main room of the shop.
“I don’t know but I want to use this cape,” said Matt. “Maybe I’ll be a bandit or a vampire.”
“I don’t know Tom but you’re going to either have to work your wings into your costume or find a way to cover them completely. Matt, that cape won’t cut it, if a breeze ripples through, you’ll be exposed for who and what you are.”
“I’m working on it,” Matt smoothly said as he grabbed a Zorro like mask and a fedora.
“Now then,” thought Isabelle as the clock outside chimed 7 o’ clock. “Who should I be tonight?” As she leisurely strolled down an aisle of full length dresses. In her opinion, disguising herself for missions were probably the most fun part. Every time she donned on a costume, she could pretend to be a different person. Even if it was only for half a day, it was nice not to be herself. To feel like she belonged in modern society.
Wordlessly, she picked up a black mask that covered the area around the eyes and nose. Red plastic gems decorated swirling designs with a large sprig of red and black feathers glued on to the side.
“Tonight. I shall be royalty,” she thought as she began collecting items of dark red and black. A crimson satin hair ribbon, a black choke collar. She found a pair of flat soled, black ballet slippers. All she needed was a dress.
“Hey. Thomas. Matt.”
“Yeah Belle?”
After a brief period of silence, she unhooked a full length, black halter dress with a low cut back from a clothes hanger. “See if you can find a make-up kit.”
“Why? It’s a Masquerade,” said Matt. “No one can see your face anyways.”
“It’s not for my face silly.”
Thomas walked over to her. “What are you thinking?”
“I’m thinking I could have you pencil in scars and other marks across my back where my wings grow in.”
“Hm, that’s a little risky there Isabelle,” contemplated Matt.  

[Adianoeta]

“I agree with him for once. Is that a good idea?” said Tom.
“Why not? I could be the daughter of a Class B surgeon,” said Isabelle, her quick mind conjuring a story. “My mother was oh so brutally murdered when I was two. A year ago the murderer was caught and I told my father that I wanted the Angel’s wings taken and implanted so that I could be a spy and save other innocents.”
“You’re crazy… er… than normal,” said Tom.
“Fine then I’ll get one of the twins to do it.”
“They’ll mess it up.”
“I’ll get Matt to draw on me then,” said Belle, hoping Tom’s disgust in Matt would sway his answer.
“He’ll be too busy molesting you that he’ll mess up even more.”
“Hey, a gentleman would never do that,” said Matt.
“Nevermind Belle,” said Thomas reluctantly. “You win.”
“Thank you for agreeing to my brilliant idea.”
“Well, I can’t really disagree.”
“Exactly,” said Belle as she happily began inspecting her dress again. She told her friends that she’d be right back as she walked towards one of the dressing stalls in the back room. She closed the door and locked it behind her just as the store’s entrance bells jingled. She stripped off her sweater and other clothes and put on the dress. She zipped it up as best as she could and looked at her reflection. The dress was made of silk but cut in a simple fashion with a slight split down the both the left and right sides. A dark red ribbon was tied with a bow and sewed at the waist of the dress. The hem of the dress also had red ribbon running across the fabric as well. There was a slight stain near the top and perhaps the stain was the reason why its previous owner had abandoned it. She reminded herself to find a pin or shawl or something to hide the stain. She then slipped on her black ballet slippers, tied on the black choker with a clear crystal heart, and tied the red ribbon around her head. Finally, she put on her feathered mask and became the Dark Angel.
Outside, she heard a young voice inquire to Old Man Hobbs about a pink something or another. After several moments, the cash register gave a cheerful “ding” and the bells jingled again. She assumed the person had found what they needed and left. Hesitantly peeking out of the dressing room stall, she checked that no one was outside.
“Tom, will you please zip this up all the way for me?”
“Sure,” said Thomas as he placed his stuff on a counter and walked to the back of the room.
“Matt, will you ask Mr. Hobbs if he has make-up kit around here.”
“Yeah. Hey, Mr. Hobbs!”
“Back here, Son!” shouted Mr. Hobbs as Matt vaulted over the counter and went into the back room.
Just as Matt retrieved the kit, Thomas finished zipping up the dress. “Hey Tom, catch,” said Matthew as he chucked a zippered bag in his friend’s general direction. Matt caught the bag and unzipped it.
“Lucky for us this is a Hallows Eve kit for monster make-up and what not.” He slid his mask over his head and after a brief rummaging period, he took out what appeared to be concealer stick that was a shade slightly darker than Isabelle’s skin tone.
“Are we planning to go directly to the Masque, Isabelle?”  

[Adianoeta]

“I don’t see a reason why we can’t,” said Belle. “I’m dressed, you’re almost dressed, and Matt’s,” she paused and glanced in his direction just in time to catch him sliding out of his pants to try on another pair. “Matt’s half dressed,” she said as she glanced away.
“Correction. Fully dressed thank you very much,” shouted Matt. “How do I look?” He inquired as he slipped on a slim black mask that covered his eyes. “I’m… Matthew, the Midnight Marauder!” He quickly grabbed the edge of his cape and pulled it to his face.
“Pft. What a cheesy name,” scoffed Tom.
“Oh yeah? Well, I think it’s cool,” sniffed Matt.
“Stop it you two,” said Belle. “Tom, are you almost done? Unless you’re planning to go as a zombie or something your costume is a bit, well, lacking.”
“Well, Mr. Marauder there took the cape I was originally going to use and I’m trying to find a scythe. I wanted to be the grim reaper.”
“I didn’t see a scythe either but I did see a long pitchfork.”
“Why, so he can be Tom the Farmer?” laughed Matt.
“No stupid. It was red,” countered Isabelle. “I’m thinking if we can find him some horns and a red and black ensemble we can make him the devil.”
“Hah,” laughed Matt again. “A devil with wings. Please.”
While the two were bickering, Tom went browsing through the isles of clothes again.
“Hey. If he found a billowy, dark red shirt like yours he could hide them.”
“But it looks slightly awkward. He’d need a cloak or another cape.”
After another fifteen minutes of rummaging, the trio had found a pair of plastic horns, another long flowing cape, a tie-on red Devil’s tail, and a deep red heart pin with a glittering black rose embossed in the middle. Each member, fully disguised, then collected their old clothes and stored them in plastic bags that Old Man Hobbs provided. Thanking the kind store owner and bidding Kitten Caboodle goodbye the group casually strolled out of Knick Knack Paddy Whack.
They were more than halfway to the Kalethey Mansion just as the clock tolled 8 o’ clock.
“Just in time to be fashionably late,” said Belle.
“Perfect for slipping in when it’s impossible to personally greet all the guests,” said Tom while he adjusted the demon horns.
“So Belle, how about that whole escort thing?”
“Okay. How do you politely tell someone to get lost?”Just as Belle was about to respond, a clatter behind them drew their attention. The trio all turned around somewhat normally to avoid looking suspicious. However, all they saw was a small pile of haphazardly piled crates and boxes in the dark alley from which they came.
“Maybe it was just a large rat or something,” mumbled Matt.
“Maybe,” pondered Tom.
“Maybe not,” stated Belle simultaneously. “Whatever it was, we had better be going to scout the place out.”
As they turned around and continued to head towards the masquerade, a shadow figure silently cursed and scurried after the teenagers. It was lucky that they had decided to dismiss the racket. “Lucky for me that is. Let’s hope it holds out.”

***************

 

[Adianoeta]

In the meanwhile, Chris and Kathy had gone back to their hideout and changed into all black attire.
“So,” Kathy said to her brother as she sat down on the floor, “What atrocity are we planning for tonight?”
Christopher went into the kitchen and brought out the bread basket. “Not a clue but whatever it is, it can’t be traced back to us.”
“Really? I would have never thought of that,” said Kathy, her voice laced with sarcasm.
Playfully shaking his head, he said solemnly, “You’re becoming more like Isabelle everyday.” He handed her the basket as he grabbed a cinnamon bun for himself.
“Is that a bad thing? You’re practically a younger, shorter, less emo Tom.”
“But Tom’s awesome,” complained Chris as Katherine ignored him and selected a blueberry muffin.
“Whatever. Anyways,” thought Katherine as she munched, “Let’s each take a tool kit now and go scout the area. We still have plenty of time before we need to do anything so we can always come back here if we need to.”

***************

The trio had reached the main gates of mansion where the line of entrees was starting to thin out. As they waited in line, they examined the property while the people already there started to examine them. The people started quietly talking to each other and occasionally pointing and glancing in Belle’s direction. She acted casual and ignored them.
The dwelling was one of the largest homes built. Surrounded by the iron fence and gate, the mansion was preceded by a large, levitating fountain. The path that lead up to the home forked around the fountain, which was currently exhibiting an array of lights. The loop formed was currently being used to drop off guests that had arrived in automobiles. The mansion was painted a peach like color and was two stories tall. The first story had balconies and large glass sliding doors. Through the glass, there was an assortment of colorfully dressed people already on the floor waltzing away. The balconies on the second floor also had sliding doors too though they were made with an odd kind of glass where only a blurry silhouette could be seen. Out of an educated guess, Isabelle believed that all doors and windows were made of at least bullet proof glass and the second story doors were custom made. “And this was only the visible, front portion of the house. Imagine the ‘backyard’.”A voice interrupted the youngsters’ thoughts. “May I see your invitations please?”
On his toes, Tom replied, “I thought this was an open party?”
“Yes,” replied the guard as he scrutinized the teens. “However, normal citizens aren’t allowed entry until 9 PM. Posters were everywhere. Surely you perused them carefully?” The man’s hand twitched towards his headset walkie talkie. He absolutely despised brats such as these kids. And that girl seemed like an Angel. But then again, surely she wasn’t stupid, walking around like that.
“Yes, but unfortunately, my father has the invitation and he left earlier than we did,” said Belle to him calmly and slowly. “Surely you see his name on the list? Sir Gregory Corgette.”
Matt stared at her as if she were insane. First, he was sure no one by that name existed, and second, even if he did, what if he was called down here and questioned?
Yet, the guard had done what Belle had asked, if not somewhat slowly. Matt stared incredulously as Tom watched with silent disapproval.  

[Adianoeta]

“Yes, it appears that a Sir Corgette was out of town earlier,” said the guard slowly as he took a pencil from behind his ear. “And also, his name was penciled in earlier tonight,” he said as he wrote down the nonexistent man’s name. “Nothing out of the ordinary here. You’re welcome in.”
“Thank you Officer. Have a goodnight,” said Belle back to her normal cheery mood.
As the group walked past the guard and past the gate, Matt bewilderedly whispered to Belle. How did you know that a Sir … what was it…. Corerette was on that list?”
“He wasn’t on that list,” said Belle. “He’s not real. I slipped inside his thoughts like knife through butter. I made him see the name on the list. Made him ‘trace it’ because it seemed to be rubbing off.”
“That’s brilliant! Can you do that with everyone? Make them do things by mind control I mean?”
Tom scoffed from the other side of the fountain. “It’s not brilliant, it’s manipulative.”
“I don’t do it everyday,” huffed Belle. “Besides, how else were we to get in?”
“Couldn’t we have just turned invisible?” whispered Matt.
“Sure,” said Belle. “If you wanted to be caught.”
“Erm. The meaning of ‘invisible’ means… not visible. So, how would be have been caught?”
“Well, judging by looks, there’s probably state of the art technology on this property. I wouldn’t be surprised if our conversation was being recorded now,” said Tom dryly.
“Oop. Heads up,” whispered Belle as they approached the entrance. “Looks like they do have someone to greet the guests after all.”
“They can definitely afford it,” muttered Tom.
In the center of the front French doors stood a boy about their age, amiably welcoming the visitors. He was wearing what appeared to be a short sleeved black martial arts outfit with matching black pants and a black strip of cloth tied on as a mask. On his arms and legs he had white wraps and on his feet he wore a pair of stealthy looking black boots. On his back he had strapped on what seemed to be a light, thin sword. The boy’s shoulder length, dirty blonde hair was tied into a casual ponytail at the nape of his neck, completing the look.
The trio stepped up to the door as a lady tiger and her pirate partner bid the ninja a good night.
“Good evening gentlemen and fair lady,” said with a fake grin plastered on his face. “On behalf of my family,” he continued with a tone that was saturated with boredom and nonchalance. “I would like to welcome you to the Kalethey mansion.” At this, he bowed and swept his hand inwards, towards the house. “Please enjoy your stay.”
Only when he came back up from his bow did he notice Isabelle and her wings.
“I’m sorry. I don’t mean to be personal but, are you a Changed?”
Out of habit, Belle had frowned slightly and had started to form the word “No” in her mouth when Tom hurriedly spoke on her behalf.
“Yes. My friend is a Changed. She asked her father, a top class surgeon, to implant Angel wings so that she could turn all spy like,” sarcasm practically oozed from his speech. “She wants to save other innocents, like her brutally murdered mother, from being well, brutally murdered.”
Isabelle inwardly winced, “The story sounds extremely fake when you say it like that..” Aloud, she really said, “Yes, that’s true. The scars are still there to prove a point.” She turned around and expanded her wings a bit.
“Wow,” said the boy. “That must have hurt.”  

[Adianoeta]

“Sorry for going off topic here milord but for clarification purposes,” interrupted Tom. “But you did say you were of the Kalethey family?”
“That is correct. I’m the one and only heir left,” sighed the boy. “But please, don’t call me ‘milord’. You’re starting to sound like the maids and butlers. I just go by Jon.”
“That name rings a bell. Though... I can’t seem to remember where I’ve heard it before.”
The boy let through a genuine smile, “Well, I hope to see you out on the dance floor later Miss…?”
“Belle. Isabelle,” she said as she was hustled through the foyer by her peers.
“Save a dance for me then,” shouted the boy.
The entrance emptied out into a small foyer with a coat room to the right. Straight ahead was a pair of glowing blue stone-like pillars accompanied by another security guard. He held a glowing blue stick in his hand was leaning against the wall.
“Evening,” he said in a tired tone. “Please hang all coats, jackets, capes, and cloaks in the coat room. An attendant should be in there to help along with the process.”
“These capes are part of the costume,” said Matt.
“Perfectly fine,” he said. “Proceed through the pillars. Remove all knives, charms, orbs, communication devices, and other man-made items first.”
“Haven’t got any,” said Belle as she walked towards the pillars. “We travel light.”
As she passed through, the tension in the air between the stones seemed thicker, like the pressure in the room had increased slightly between them.
“If you don’t mind me asking, what exactly are these?” asked Tom.
“New installations requested by Mrs. Kalethey,” the guard answered without skipping a beat. “She said that security was very important in her mansion and she did not want someone else die here again. They detect magical items and man-made weaponry. Prototypes shipped from the Arimeca region. They should to turn different colors depending on what they find. Blue means you’re clear. Red for man-made weaponry, orange for communication devices, green for charms, purple for orbs, black for things like summoned spirits and haunts.”
The three silently nodded at the new found information, thanked the man, and moved on. The hallway they walked through was long and eerily lighted by well placed lamps. Pictures of random things were scattered about on the walls along with a couple of locked doors.
The hallway opened up to the main parlor was filled with people just milling about and mingling. Maids and butlers weaved through the crowd and offered drinks and hors d'oeuvres of sorts. There were several chairs and small coffee tables thrown about. On the opposite side of the room, there were several exits from the main parlor. There were no windows so it was assumed that this probably near the center of the mansion. A large, crystal chandelier accompanied by several smaller ones hung from the high ceiling. The ceiling itself was enchanted so that it depicted an image of gently twinkling stars with shootings meteors that glittered and slowly glided from one side of the dome to the another. Two leisurely sloping staircases led up to what appeared to be the second floor.
“So how do we go about this whole,” Matt whispered “kidnapping business?”
“Why don’t we try to get a feel of this place?” pondered Belle. “Try to see what’s up on the second floor.”
“Meet back around here at 10 o’clock?” said Tom.
“Sure, see you,” agreed Belle as she walked towards the furthest exit on the left.
“Later,” said Tom as he headed towards the exit next to the one Belle went to.