Prologue
The warm jungle air would be good for his aging soul, or so that’s what his doctor had told him. Bertrand Bell leaned on his walking stick as he stood outside of the run-down arena in Jrusar. He was pushing into his mid-eighties and had been warned he didn’t have much time left in this world. What was once fashionable silver hair, styled back into a ponytail, now sat scraggled and thinning pulled into a sad bun atop of his head. At least his tanned skin was in pretty good shape for a man of his age, as was his fabulous goatee.
Bertrand closed his eyes, listening to the tweets of whistles and pounding of runners on gym floor. Behind his closed eyes, he recalled his adventuring days. He had been so lucky as to find himself playing for teams well above his skill level. He didn’t get much action, didn’t even dress every game, but he’d accompany his teammates all across Issylra. He had discovered his talent was more in seeing other’s talent. Once Bertrand stopped playing, he became a talent scout, which took him to Tal’Dorei. Now, long since retired, he found himself in Marquet, probably for his last lacrosse adventure.
Taking a deep breath, Bertrand stood up straight and walked in through the front doors to meet the arena’s owner.
Ariks Eshteross was waiting for Bertrand at the top of the bleachers. He stood when Bertrand made his way over, his wide frame towering over the other man. The two griseled figures shook hands, greeting each other heartedly.
“What do I owe the honour in seeing you here again, old friend?” Eshteross asked, in a deep and gruff voice.
Bertrand flashed an easy smile. “Can’t I visit an old friend from time to time?”
“You can,” Eshteross looked down at Bertrand, suspecting. “But we haven’t spoken in years. Why now?”
Bertrand sighed, deciding to play the honesty card. “I’m dying Ariks. We were so close once, back in our playing days, and I know you’ve been sponsoring teams out here in Jrusar.”
The large brow of Eshteross furrowed, but he knodded, beckoning his Bertrand to continue.
“Well, you see, I thought I could leave one last mark on the lacrosse world before my light goes out. I don’t have a family to leave my estate to, but perhaps I can endow it to a team here, under your tutelage.”
“Why don’t we go somewhere more comfortable to discuss this more. I can call Evelyn and have her prepare that wonderful stew you used to love.” Eshteross led Bertrand back down and out of the arena, to his car. He carefully drove them back to his house a few minutes away.
Over a hearty but solemn lunch, Bertrand divulged his condition and his wish.
“I fear I’ll leave this world, and no one will be left to remember me.” Bertrand sighed.
Even if he could be remembered, in a small way, that would bring him peace. There wasn’t much of an estate to speak of, but Eshteross figured it would be enough to purchase new equipment and 3 years of entry into the Junior A league. Bertrand had been hoping to start a senior team in Jrusar, but Eshteross convinced him the best way to foster the local talent was to give the players somewhere to play in the city after highschool.
“We can recruit players from the Taloned Highlands all the way to up to Ank’Harel!” Eshteross cheered passionately, clinking his stein with Bertrand’s once the deal was drawn out.
“Yes, and one day we’ll rival even the teams across the ocean, in the birthplace of lacrosse, Tal’Dorei!” Bertrand’s blue eyes glistened with a tear in each.
“What should the team be called?” Eshteross asked softly.
“Hmm.” Bertrand thought. “Let’s workshop it.”
But Bertrand never was able to come up with a name for Eshteross. He got his affairs in order that evening. Had his lawyer prepare everything for the endowment. Less than a month later, he was found facedown in an alley. Not the most glorious of deaths. It was determined he had likely gone for a stroll late at night, and suffered a heart attack.
The season being a few months away, Eshteross outsourced the team naming and jersey design to the kids who would be forming the inaugural team. In retrospect, maybe he shouldn’t have given them this freedom. But the players, led by Coach Pock’O’Pea settled on the Screeching Bells, in honour of their late sponsor.
Chapter 1
“I can’t wait to meet Mayor Gavis Aranda.” Fearne gushed as she applied her waterproof mascara in one of the arena’s bathrooms.
“I don’t see the big deal, it’s not like he’s a real celebrity.” Opal shrugged as she took out her bright pink lip balm, of course matching her custom painted lacrosse stick.
“He might have something interesting on his person though…” Fearne winked.
“Okay Fearne, you know I usually am all for your shenanigans.” Opal stopped and turned to face her friend. “But you really think that’s a good idea, tonight? Home opener. The whole city is watching. Tons of security.”
“The challenge is what makes it more fun.” Fearne shimmied, a mischevious grin plastered on her face.
The past couple of weeks since getting back from the Lake Korron tournament had been grueling. Chetney had always priortized the Bells’ fitness, which was why they were a pretty good running team. But Coach Laudna was a machine. Not only did she push them harder than Chet ever had, but she ran the drills with them and often beat the players. They were all supposed to be in the best shape of their lives. Yet here was their coach, almost 10 years their senior and retired for years, outrunning them. Fearne was used to overweight dads coaching her. Guys who had stick legs and beer bellies, and would talk about ‘the good old days’. Coach Laudna was another beast entirely.
Five practices with only one day off, and then they hit the road again to start the season for real. The training must have been worth it, because the Bells were playing their best lacrosse yet. Not that Fearne really cares, but she knows if they don’t make it to the Tal’Dorei Cup this season the sponsors might not be back for next year. The old man Bertrand Bell had left enough cash in the bank up until the end of last season.
The team had done very well last season, winning their region. They had missed out on the Tal’Dorei cup, losing a best of 3 series in the Marquet final. Really it was no contest. Despite the score only being 2-0 both games, Dariax had stood on his head, while the rest of the Bells were woefully outplayed. Fearne thinks it’s the reason Chetney and Eshteross made the decision to bring on a new head coach.
Fearne sighed happily as she thought about how quickly the team was reforming around Laudna. It was mostly due to Orym and Imogen, she thought. The rest of them would follow those two anywhere. Gods forbid they ever disagree on a major decision.
Bringing herself back to the present, Fearne glanced around looking for an opening. The mayor was walking up to the podium now. The arena lights dimmed, and the bleachers full. He was a short man who carried himself with such importance, the face of the city and ruling council. Fearne couldn’t wait to cut him down a block. Anyone with too much power and influence was dangerous.
As Mayor Aranda reached into the breast pocket of his suit jacket, he started to convulse. Fearne had been watching him closely, so she noticed the second it started to happen. His neck strained, then he was doubled over choking. His hands dropped the speech and went up to claw at his own throat. It was terrifying. Within seconds, the mayor had several security personnel at his side. Within minutes, the entire arena was on lockdown. The players were escorted back into dressing rooms, where Fearne twiddled her thumbs and waited.
In the end, the game had to be rescheduled. Players, coaches, and fans were all put on a list to be questioned. Mayor Aranda had been rushed to the hospital. They got word that he was stable, but not conscious.
“It may be a few days before we can go back to the rink.” Laudna warned the team. “So I expect you all to be doing your daily wall-ball and core workouts. We’ll have some team runs and gym days, but other than that, enjoy a few days off.”
No one had to tell Fearne twice to enjoy a day off. She collapsed into the couch at her Nana’s. The springs under the orange-turned brown flower patterned cushions bouncing slightly under her weight. Remebering the first time she came to Nana Morri’s, Fearne’s recalls the smells of stale cigarettes and whiskey.
She needs something to drink, or to smoke, or probably both. She also knows she’s out, since she hasn’t been home for more than a couple of days since Yios. Fearne knows, even if she doesn’t remember, that she had drank and smoked everything the night before leaving for Yios. It’s not that there had been an occasion or specific reason for binge drinking like that. It just happened sometimes. She never did anything she regretted, not like she knew Ashton and Imogen did when they indulged too much. Sometimes, she just didn’t remember. And that was fine. Freeing sometimes, even.
Anyway, she knew she was out of stock. So she called Ashton.
“What’s up?” Ashton picked up on the third ring. “Didn’t I just see you?”
“What are you doing tonight?” Fearne put on her flirty voice.
“You’re out of booze, aren’t you?” Ashton responded, dead-pan.
“Maybe I’m just lonely.” Fearne teased.
“Lonely and thirsty?”
Fearne giggled at the joke. “I’m also out of the fun stuff.”
“Of course you are.” Ashton sighed. “Hang on, I think I can get some stuff.”
Fearne heard their muffled voice call out to someone else, probably Milo.
“Okay, we’re good. Want me to come to you?”
“Yes, please.” Fearne batted her eyelashes out of habit, even though Ashton couldn’t see her face.
Twenty minutes later, there was a knock and Ashton swung open the screen door. They were wearing a backpack and holding a box of beer. “I got your favourite piss water.” Holding the box so that Fearne could grab a bottle before they took everything into the kitchen. “Dude, have you even cleaned up since we got back from Yios? It smells like stale booze in here, even more than usual!”
“Hey, if you don’t like it, you can leave!” Fearne opened her beer and sank further into the couch.
Ashton cracked a beverage as well and settled in next to her. “Nah, I’m good. I just don’t get how you doll yourself up out in public only to come back to this sty.”
Fearne let herself look around the living room. It had been hard since Nana had left this world last spring. When her parents had sent her away with Orym and Alma (Orym’s mom), Nana Morri had filled a gap she didn’t know she had. The questioning emptiness that only a child who’d been abandoned by their parents can feel. Be it literal abandonement, or just absent parenting. Fearne wondered if Ashton’s hurt was greater than Fearne’s because their parents literally abandoned them. Whereas Fearne’s parents just sucked.
Sure, she got letters from her parents. The impersonal letters on her birthday from her father. He’d sent her toys when she was younger, but now it was always just a cheque. At least she got presents from her dad though. Her mother thought it was sufficient to show up out of the blue every once in a while to take her for lunch. Bertie insisted her and Fearne have ‘quality mom and daughter time’, but only when it suited Bertie. Fearne’s eyes rolled back into her head as she sighed.
“Whatcha thinkin’ about.” Ashton ventured, looking over at her between drags. They had lit a blunt, it seemed.
“Give me some of that.” Fearne reached for it, but Ashton was too quick.
“Oh no you don’t. Tell me what you’re grumbling to yourself about first.”
“Nothing important.” Fearne sulked. When Ashton didn’t budge, she added. “Just Bertie, and how she always puts herself and Ollie before me. And how it’s a lot less fun here when Nana isn’t around.”
Ashton nodded knowingly, before passing the blunt over to Fearne. “Don’t have to tell me twice about shitty parents. Speaking of which, you hear from the Sorrowlord lately?”
Fearne rolled her eyes a different way for the mention of her father. “Not since my last birthday. But I think he has a new girlfriend, again.”
“Is she at least closer to his age than yours?”
“You know that’s so unlikely.”
Fearne and Ashton shot the shit way too long into the night. As they were nodding off, Asthon asked, “Hey, would you be open to checking out the museum with me tomorrow? There’s this new exhibit on Ashari culture that I’m pretty interested in.”
“Sure, Ash.” Fearne’s eyes were closed.
“Okay, thanks. Let’s get you into bed, you’re going to have a sore neck in the morning if you sleep on the couch here.”
The next morning Fearne and Ashton slept in late and were roused by a banging on the front door. Fearne rolled off the bed, absently realizing she was in the same clothes she had on yesterday at the game. Plodding over to the door slowly, Fearne saw the top of Orym’s head in the front door window.
Opening up the door, Fearne squinted into the mid-morning sun. “Hi Orym, what are you doing here?”
Orym is looking fresh, a big smile and lacrosse stick in hand. “Heya Fearnie, I saw Ash’s van parked out front and thought I’d check in on you two. I tried texting you this morning to get some training in, but never heard back.”
“Yeah Orym, because, unlike you, some of us actually need sleep.” Fearne’s snappy response is interupted as she needs to cover her mouth with a yawn.
“Well, I did my workout already this morning, but I’d join you later too.” Orym suggested.
“You’re here now, and I’m awake now. Why don’t you come in for some coffee. Ash and I are checking out this museum exhibit in a bit. Once we’re both a little more like humans.” Fearne ushered Orym into the house and then put the coffee machine on.
“You two, more like humans? Fat chance.” Orym joked.
“Is that Orym I hear?” Ashton can be heard from Fearne’s bedroom.
“Good morning Ashton!” Fearne noticed Orym surveying the living area. She hopes he doesn’t notice that it’s messier than when he was here last. The last thing Fearne wants right now is to be lectured.
“I don’t know how you live like this.” Orym commented.
Fearne retorted. “Not in the mood right now for your attitude.”
Orym poured himself some coffee, before taking a garbage bag out from underneath the kitchen sink. As Fearne sipped on her black coffee and nibbled on a piece of toast, Orym collected all of the recyclables and garbage in the common area.
Jrusar National Museum houses all manners of artifacts from pre-calamity, all the way to present day. There’s something for everyone here, but Ashton is particularly interested in the new exhibit: Ashari Weapons and Armour Throughout the Ages.
“I didn’t know you were a big Ashari history buff.” Orym is surprised.
“I just read some stuff recently and thought it looked cool.” Ashton responded non-chalantly. “You know, all the martial arts stuff. I think it could actually help my game.”
Fearne can tell when Ashton is hiding something, and the look Orym gave them told her he was thinking the same. “Well, I kind of know a decent amount, since my mom raised me Air Ashari. If there’s anything you want to talk about, or maybe some breathing techniques or something I can show you, let me know.”
Fearne loved watching the best friends like this. Orym was so patient with Ashton, where Fearne couldn’t be bothered half the time. Ash had been through so so much, and still hadn’t really processed a lot of those things. Her and Ashton had discussed last night about the Ashari and Ashton’s fascination a bit. They were less drawn to the meditative and dance-like prayer the Air Ashari were known for. Fearne found the Fire Ashari the most interesting, she heard they lived in volcanoes. But Ashton gravitated towards Earth Ashari. Fearne thought she knew why too, rumour had it that the Earth Ashari invented the world’s first hallucinagenics. They also were known for a tea that had a toned down version with the same effects. She could try either of those out with Ashton sometime.
As they wandered throughout the museum, they eventually made their way over to a display of old armour. A helmet display, all decorated outrageously. Horns and spikes, and in one case an actual modeled building, were adorned to these battle helms. Ashton was fixated on one in particular. A dark rusted helm, with spikes coming out the center of it.
“That’s cool.” Fearne made idle conversation. “Would look pretty badass on a motorcycle or something.”
Ashton nodded, but didn’t really seem to be paying attention. They snapped a couple photos on their phone, through the glass. “We should probably head out soon, get our workout in before it’s too late in the day.”
As they leave the museum, Fearne takes a moment to approach a total stranger. “Hey, no need to stare you know. If you want our autograph, you can just ask us.” She batted her eyelashes at the stranger. The man is dressed in dark clothing and wearing a raven necklace. She noticed them a few times throughout the museum today, they kept looking at her and her friends. The stranger, shocked and at a loss for words, mumbles seemingly embarassed. Fearne, satisfied with their discomfort, doesn’t wait for a response before she jogs off after Ashton and Orym.
Chapter 2
When the Bells meet up for dryland training the next day, Fearne is surprised to see two new faces. A tall man and a short lady, dressed in matching navy suits, the glimmer of a badge at each of their hips.
“Everyone, meet Olly and Gus.” Laudna introduces the pair to the team. “They are the Greenseekers, and are investigating the attack on the Mayor.”
“Thanks Coach.” Olly steps up after nodding to Laudna. Her tone is serious and her face is devoid of expression. “Gus and I will be taking each of you aside, one on one, for some questions. We’ll try not to disrupt your practice, but we do have a job to do here.”
Fearne is grateful that today they’re only working on fitness, and only have to wear their helmets and gloves. She has a hard time focusing at practice on a good day. And today there are a lot of distractions. She keeps seeing people around the field, watching them play. From a distance, they seem to be wearing similar outfits to the Greenseekers, with matching serious looks. One of them looks suspiciously like the guy they ran into at the museum.
Maybe they’re Olly and Gus’ backup, Fearne thinks. But that one certainly wasn’t very sneaky, or professional. Her thoughts on the subject get sidetracked as they drift idly to, I wonder if I could steal one of those badges… These backup agents lurking in the shadows might make things more difficult.
“Don’t do it.” Imogen warns Fearne as they jog towards Laudna to start a new drill.
“Do what?” Fearne asks innocently.
“I saw that look, you’re eyeing the detective’s badge aren’t you.”
“What, are you a mind reader?” Fearne smiles. “But really, I’m not going to do it. Too many eyes.” She glances off to the other side of the field, Imogen and Orym’s gazes following.
Orym’s making his ‘thinking face’ when Opal returns from her chat with the Greenseekers. “You’re up Fearne. And try not to steal anything, these folks actually seem to want to help.”
“Why does everyone jump to that conclusion?” Fearne asks no one in particular, but many of her friends give her a knowing look in response.
Gus and Olly each extend a hand to shake Fearne’s as she takes her right glove off. “So, any leads yet.” Fearne asks, shimmying as she does.
“I think we’ll be asking the questions.” Olly is all business, no play.
Fearne pouts jokingly. “Okay, then… Fire away.”
Fearne recounts what she saw leading up to the Mayor’s attack. She didn’t notice anyone come up to him after he got to the podium. He did have a water glass that he had taken a sip from, did they collect any samples from it? she wondered aloud. She graphically recalls the way Mayor Aranda clawed at his throat. If she had to guess, he had been poisoned. She tells the Greenseekers her thoughts.
Olly gives Gus a particular look, but no words are passed between them. “Thank you, you can get back to practice now. I think it’s just your coaches we need a word with.” Gus nods and turns back to Olly.
Fearne takes a few steps away from the detectives. “You know, if you need some more help, the Screeching Bells are pretty good at solving mysteries.”
Olly and Gus turn back to her. “Thanks kid, but I think we’re good.”
Shrugging, she continues to walk away. Fearne takes her time adjusting her helmet and gloves, then finds a team water bottle to sip from. Really, she’s trying to eavesdrop on the Greenseekers. And she is not dissapointed.
After dryland training is over, and the Bells are all sitting in a circle on the grass, stretching. Fearne doesn’t notice the strange people lurking around the field anymore, Olly and Gus have long packed up and left too.
“It really is one exciting thing after another with this team.” Dorian exclaims. “This is so much different than my experience in the minor league.”
“I guess we were kidding ourselves when we thought this season we could just sit back and focus on our game.” Orym has a wry smile on his face as he looks to Fearne, Ashton, and Imogen. They all chuckle in agreement with him.
“Well, I heard some interesting things today.” Fearne starts. The attention suddenly all on her. Lowering her voice, she continues. “Sounds like our friends the Greenseekers have a lead on the murder attempt.”
“And?” Aston asks, leaning towards Fearne.
“And, someone or someones in security let a package through without checking it properly. The contents had residue of a poison that was found in the Mayor’s system.”
“So, there’s something fishy about the security team. At least, one person on security.” Imogen offers.
“Exactly. And I just happen to know which security company they used that night.” Fearne’s eyes light up. “Paragon’s Call.”
“Alright team.” Laudna interupts the hushed discussion as her, Chetney, and FCG return to the rest of the team. “After speaking with Olly and Gus, it sounds like we aren’t going to get back into the arena until a suspect is found. That could be a matter of days, but it could be longer. So, Chetney is working on getting games rescheduled, and we may have to play some home games at another arena. For the rest of this week though, we’ll perfect our new breakout system and keep up the fitness training. I’ll email you all the updated practice schedule tonight, along with some exercises you can do on your own or with a buddy.”
The players deflate a little when they hear they won’t be playing a game again for at least a week. But all nod their heads in understanding.
“Since this is kind of downer news…” Laudna continues. “FCG and I are going to be putting on a BBQ for everyone tomorrow night! Hopefully the short notice works for you all.”
This does seem to lift everyone’s spirits. No one had plans, since tomorrow was supposed to be another home game. Fearne sighs happily, enjoying the break from competition.
The Bells are all gathered in Laudna’s backyard. FCG is flipping burgers at the barbeque, and Chetney is fast asleep, gathering a nice sunburn in one of the camping recliner chairs.
“So, I did some research.” Imogen exclaims excitedly, between bites of her burger and sips of the beer bottle in her other hand. “The reviews on Paragon’s Call are pretty varied. Most people have great experiences, but a few had terrible ones.”
“Those guys that were dicks to Ashton and I, Ratty and Rocky from Sruwargas, they also worked for the Call.” Orym supplies, recieving a few weird looks. “Look, I creeped them on socials after we played them in Yios. Their coach, Thull, also has some work experience with this security company.”
Laudna was walking by, tidying up empty plates and utensils, as Orym said this. Fearne notices her twitch as soon as Orym mentions Thull.
“You know Thull, Coach?” Fearne asks.
“Oh, sorry, I didn’t mean to eavesdrop on your conversation.” Laudna looks down at her feet.
“Don’t worry! You can join us.” Imogen offers, before looking around nervously, “right?”
“Of course!” Fearne and the others nod encouragingly. “We were just discussing the Greenseeker’s findings and how the Paragon’s Call seem to be connected.”
Laudna hovers on the outside of the small circle. Ashton gets up from their chair, and makes a big deal out of getting Laudna to sit there instead. “I need to refresh drinks. You sit, Coach! Everyone want the same as last round?”
Ashton is met with a series of head nods before they jog off for refreshments.
“So, Coach, what do you know about Thull?” Orym asks, refocusing the conversation.
“Well, other than being the current head coach of the Sruwargas Peaks, a formidable opponent behind the bench… Otahan Thull used to be quite the formidable opponent on the floor. We crossed paths a few times when I was playing up on the Dwendalian National Team. We also were opponents one season where we both played senior women’s field lacrosse.” Laudna’s eyes are a bit far away as she recounts her history. One hand brushing, seemingly subconscious, around her chest and shoulder.
“Know anything about her security career?” Orym keeps pressing for information.
Laudna’s eyes seem to refocus as Orym’s words cut the moments of silence. “Oh, no I don’t. Sorry.”
“Otahan Thull…” Imogen thinks out loud. “Why does that name sound so familiar?”
Ashton returns, and has apparently woken Chetney from his slumber to help lug the cooler full of drinks over.
“Thull?” Chetney asks, turning to Imogen. “Probably because she was a scout just before you entered Junior. Wouldn’t be surprised if contacted you. She played with your mom before Liliana retired too, you know?”
Imogen makes a face that Fearne is pretty sure means, she’s now worrying about a link to her mother.
“Hmm… I wonder if my mom mentioned the name then.” Imogen goes to the place Fearne recognizes as deep in thought.
“Should we ask your mom about these Paragon’s Call guys?” Fearne wonders.
“I’d rather not, who even knows if she’d answer me anyway.” Imogen frowns.
Fearne doesn’t push that subject, not in front of so many people at least.
“Hey, don’t go meddling, the Greenseekers have got this investigation under control.” Chetney opens up a beer as he says this. “They don’t need a bunch of amatuers sticking their noses in where they shouldn’t be!” Then he walks off, adjusting his track suit pants, to find a shadier patch to nap in.
“Yes, I vaguely recall Otahan becoming a scout after she retired. She recruited a couple of my former teammates to play in Marquet.” Lauda supplies.
“You don’t seem to be a fan.” Orym states, softly.
“Not that I can fully blame her. But she was a contributing factor towards my… early retirement.” This caught everyone’s attention. Orym cocks his head. Imogen’s brow furrows. And Ashton’s arms cross protectively.
A fire burned in the pit of Fearne’s stomach. “What did that bitch do?” She had read some stories about Laudna’s playing career, but hadn’t heard much from the woman herself.
“It was after my second season with the Dwendalian Kings. My coach had gotten me a tryout for the National Team, even though the team had been determined for months already. I guess a free spot came up last minute. I had a good tryout and they wanted me on the team, but I also had this big trip back to Tal’Dorei booked…” Laudna has everyone instantly captured in her story.
“Anyway, Coach Dee was not very happy about that. I hadn’t seen my family in almost a year, though, and eventually it was agreed to let me go for a week. When I got back, the coaches had entered us into a tournament on the coast. Only the best teams were going to be there. It was basically like a preview to the world championship. I flew in the day before the first game, and was unfortunately quite jetlagged. We had a practice that night, and it ran me pretty ragged. My teammates insisted on going out for drinks that night. That, honestly was probably one of my poorer decisions in life… It’s why I have a 24 hour ‘no drinking policy’ on this team.”
Laudna paused there and looked up. Seemingly surprised to see everyone leaning in, listening intently.
“Well, game one wasn’t going great. I wasn’t hungover, just tired. But a couple of my teammates were a sorry mess. (One of them actually threw up in the garbage can just before the game started).” Laudna giggles at the memory. “Otahan was on the opposing team. They were all gigantic. I’m tall, but they were also wide, built like mature oak trees. We were losing, and at the first intermission, our coaches yelled at us a lot. We were all about to go back onto the floor, when Coach Dee stopped me. She wanted a quick word. The rest of my teammates and coaching staff went out and on to the bench. It was just the two of us. She had yelled already, so saved her voice speaking with me quietly.”
“She said, ‘Bradbury, you look like molasses out there. Is this what I get in return for allowing you that holiday?’ I didn’t really know what to say, so I apologized and said I’d be better this period.”
Immitating her old coach again, Laudna continues. “‘You better apologize. You’re one of the best players, but you aren’t acting like it.’ She pulled a little bottle out of her pocket, and made me drink it. It tasted horrible, and instantly my heart started to beat uncontrollably. But I was no longer tired.”
“She force-fed you?!” Imogen asks incredulous. “What was it?”
“An energy drink, I think. I can only assume one of those illegal ones, that are known to cause heart attacks.” Laudna replies.
Imogen scoffs. “Every story I hear about this Coach Dee.” She shakes her head angrily. “I tell you if I ever meet that woman…”
“It was a long time ago…” Laudna sighs and continues. “Well, I was no longer feeling tired, and so I jumped back into the game.”
“I scored 2 goals, and maybe got a little bit cocky. I dawdled in front of the crease waiting for a pass, and that’s where Otahan speared me in the stomach. Just as the ball came into my pocket. I got a shot off, but doubled over in pain. And as a reward for my shot on net, Otahan then cross-checked me right across my chest.”
“Then again, into my neck as I was falling to the ground. I collapsed to the floor. Coach Dee had conditioned me to stay down when this happened, which happened quite a lot. And so I did. One of my teammates told me later she thought that I may have passed out. I can’t actually remember, the pain was quite unmanageable.”
“Eventually they got me off the floor, and I did keep playing. I couldn’t sleep that night without being propped up by about 8 pillows. After the tournament, the trainer took a look at me and we realized I was playing with a fractured rib the whole tournament. I already had recurring neck pain, this didn’t help. The rib never really healed right. Both injuries contributed to why I had to end my playing career a few years earlier than I would have liked.”
“Sounds like a dirty play to me.” Orym is frowning. “But that coach you had, also sounds like a ripe piece of work.”
“Yes, well. You might understand why I sometimes may seem a little overprotective of you. I know the kinds of things coaches ask of their players, and the types of dirty play such players will do to win. I would never ask any of you to do these things, and I expect you all to play with integrity.”
“Sometimes statements need to be made.” Ashton argues.
“Of course, that is the sport. But there’s a right way and a wrong way to send a statement.” Laudna counters.
“Are you saying you would be opposed or not opposed to me dropping the gloves.” Ashton has a mischevious look on their face now.
“You’re an adult, Ashton.” Laudna keeps her tone neutral. “If you see that as the proper course of action, I’m not one to stop you. Fair one-on-one fights can be a good way to settle a dispute, without resorting to dirty hits.”
“Noted.”
Chapter 3
The BBQ lasts long into the night. Ashton gets too drunk, and Chetney drives them home. Imogen is wrapped up in another one of Laudna’s stories. Fearne still has a happy buzz going on, but figures she’s sober enough to cycle home. Orym insists on going with her to make sure she gets there safely.
“You know, Nana isn’t making you bring me home anymore, Orym.” Fearne teases.
“I mean, she kind of is. I have this habit because of her.” Orym has a wide grin pasted to his face. “But I would do it anyway!” Fearne is glad to see him relaxed.
A couple of blocks are cycled in silence. The early summer air is a little cool, and the stars are all out tonight. The moons, Catha and Ruidus, both hiding beyond the horizon.
Fearne sighs melancholically. “I miss her Orym.”
“Me too.” He’s still smiling, but more wistfully now.
“Think she’s still watching over us?” Fearne looks skyward.
“Of course. She’s up there, with Will and Derrig.” Fearne looks over and sees Orym also looking up towards the stars.
“I wonder if they’d know a thing or two about Paragon’s Call.” Fearne ponders.
“Maybe. I bet Nana would encourage us to investigate more ourselves, though.”
“Really?” Fearne is surprised at his response. Out of all her friends, she thought Orym would be the last to suggest going against Chetney’s warning. “Even after what Chet said?”
“He just wants to absolve himself from blame. But if we can help catch the baddie, I think we should.” Orym sounds committed to that statement.
“Hmm. I mean, I just wanted to dig into it because I’m curious. But I guess it would also be the right thing to do?”
Orym nods, and with that agreement, they arrive at Nana’s house. “Did you want to come in and snuggle?” Fearne asks as she opens the door.
Orym seems to think about it for a second. “Is that okay? Will Ashton mind?”
“They know we’re just buddies, and buddies snuggle sometimes.” Fearne shrugs. “Besides, it’s not like Ashton and I are exclusive or anything like that.”
Orym nods. “I think I need to not be alone tonight.”
“Me too.” Fearne agrees.
The next morning Fearne wakes up to the smell of freshly brewed coffee and waffles. She smiles as she stretches out in her bed. Gathering herself, she makes her way to the kitchen. As she suspected, Orym is there, already showered and making breakfast.
“Good morning!” Fearne announces her presence sleepily.
“Good morning, Fearne.” Orym smiles back. “I hope it’s okay, but I invited Ash and Imogen over this morning to plan.”
“Sure.” Fearne reaches for a mug. “Plan for what?”
“Going after Paragon’s Call. Or investigating that lead, at least.”
With the arena still closed, the Bells have another open training day. Orym already has a plan. “Laudna sent out the practice schedule very early this morning. We can get a good workout in after breakfast, and then figure out how to get to Paragon’s Call.”
Ashton shows up late, eyes heavily lidded and bloodshot. They’re less than excited about Orym’s workout plan. Despite the warm weather, Ashton is wearing long sleeves, badly torn at the ends. “It’s from Milo’s puppy.” Ashton explains. “I’m helping out with the pets since I’m in town this week.”
“They have a puppy now too?” Fearne could have sworn Ashton’s older sister already had 2 cats, and even then was struggling to take care of their pets.
Ashton shrugs noncommittally. “Yeah.”
“Where’s Dorian?” Imogen turned to Orym.
“I didn’t invite him.” Orym’s sheepish look is met with confusion from Imogen. “I didn’t want to pull him into this. There’s a chance we may get into bigger trouble than previous shenanigans.”
“That’s fair, we should probably try not to corrupt him.” Imogen admits. “Climbing onto roofs of buildings is one thing, but meddling with a police investigation is another.”
“We’re not meddling, Imogen.” Fearne smiles. “We’re assisting!”
“Unsolicited help is still help.” Ashton offers.
“And I think they could really use our help, judging on what you, Fearne, and Laudna have told us.” Orym continues. “The Greenseekers don’t seem any closer to solving this than we are.”
“I’m in agreement, ya’ll. For the record.” Imogen sighs. “Even if I don’t think involving my mom is a good idea.”
The four friends complete their prescribed training, then spend the rest of the morning compiling research. Orym has put up a bunch of sticky notes on the wall as Fearne, Imogen, and Ashton shout out ideas.
“This is starting to look pretty official! We really need some thread to link these all together.” Fearne jokes.
Imogen pulls out a ball of red yarn. “Will this work?”
“I was sort of kidding, but sure! Why do you have yarn?” Fearne looks at her friend.
“Oh, I uh… I’m kinda learnin’ to knit?” Imogen blushes.
“Ooh, you could make us matching toques!” Fearne clasps her hands together in glee.
“Ya, sure.” Imogen turns to help Orym pin up the yarn against the wall.
“You know,” Fearne speaks after a moment. “Knitting is cool. You don’t have to be embarrassed.”
“Oh, no, I’m not…” Imogen trails off.
“Anyway.” Orym cuts in. “I think the next thing to do is go down to Paragon’s office and ask a few questions.”
“We should probably have more of a plan around that.” Imogen suggests.
“Or, we just do what we do best.” Ashton supplies. “We wing it.”
“Ashton has a point. Don’t we usually spend way too much time coming up with a plan. Then the plan immediately goes to shit, and we just improvise?” Fearne asks.
Orym and Imogen both sigh. “Fair enough.”
On the walk downtown, Imogen approaches Ashton, concerned. “Hey, are your arms okay?”
“I’m fine.” Ashton had rolled their sleeves up in the heat, but now they pull them back down over their hands.
“I’m just asking, cuz it looks like-“
Ashton interjects before Imogen can finish her sentence. “My sister’s cats are a menace. Okay?” It’s an aggressive response, even for Ashton.
Imogen looks like she wants to push, but Fearne cuts her off. “If Ashton says they’re from the cats, it’s the cats. No problem.”
“Right, no problem.” Imogen doesn’t look convinced but stays quiet.
Fearne also doesn’t believe him, but she doesn’t think outing Ashton like this is the best move right now. Especially if it’s what she’s worried about. Imogen switches topics to ask Ashton about the martial art they’re learning. And Ashton is more than happy to start babbling about the Earth Ashari moves they’ve been learning from YouTube. Fearne allows her two friends to get further ahead before she shares a sideways look with Orym. He mouths “You think they’re okay?”
Fearne frowns, shrugging in response.
Orym’s eyes are doing that thing where he looks like a sad, broken puppy. “I didn’t know cats could be that aggressive.”
“They can be. But usually only when provoked. Or if they’re real big assholes.” Fearne’s thoughts bounce to the orange tabby that likes to visit the alley behind Ashton’s apartment. She was looking very pregnant the last time Fearne and Ashton saw her. Maybe I should take one of her kittens. Fearne lets herself think about the prospect of becoming a cat-mom herself.
They get to an unremarkable six-storey office building, grey paint peeling from the outer wall. Paragon’s Call is on the third floor. Orym fiddles with the buzzer system before Ashton pulls the unlocked door open. Inside, several fluorescent ceiling lights are flickering. The hum of electricity and the smell of dust verging on mould is offputting.
“I don’t know if I can handle being in here too long.” Imogen cringes with her eyes closed.
“Well, you’re not much use in here if you can’t see anything.” Orym puts softly.
“You’re right. How ’bout I wait outside and keep an eye out. If anything funny is happenin’ I’ll let you know.” She taps her pocket with her cell phone in it.
Fearne, Ashton, and Orym take the elevator up to the third floor and spend longer than anticipated finding the right office door.
“Hi.” Fearne steps up to the reception.
The man behind the counter doesn’t look up. “Do you have an appointment?”
“Well, no. But I just wanted to find out more about Paragon’s Call. Is there someone we can talk to? Would that be you?” She leans forward to try and get the clerk’s attention.
But his eyes are glued to his screen, as he keeps typing away. “You need to have an appointment.”
“What if I’m super important?” When he doesn’t respond, Fearne continues. “I’m actually a professor, and I have a very important field trip coming up. I might need to hire some security.”
The clerk stops typing for a moment and looks up. “You’re a professor?” he doesn’t seem to believe her.
Fearne mocks being offended, calling him ageist and sexist. But doesn’t get anywhere. Just when they’re about to turn around and call this a bust, a tall broad-shouldered man walks out from the back.
“Hey, don’t I know you?” Ratty, of the Sruwargas Peaks stops in his tracks. His hair is slicked back and he’s wearing a suit that barely fits his barrel of a chest. It’s strange to see him wearing something other than shorts and a pinny. His eyes scan the three Bells before landing on Fearne.
“Ratty, right?” Ashton steps up, interposing themself between the larger lacrosse player and Fearne.
“Ratanish. Only my friends call me Ratty. And you are?” Ratanish’s arms stay loosely crossed.
For once, Ashton replies politely. “I’m Ashton.” Then after a few seconds and a noticeable relaxation of both Ratanish and Orym’s shoulders, Ashton continues slowly. “This is Fearne. And this is Orym.”
“And they don’t have an appointment.” The clerk at the desk states impatiently.
Ratanish narrows his eyes. Another few tense moments pass.
“So… you work here?” Ashton asks.
“Yes.”
“Cuz, I’m kind of looking for a job.” Ashton leans on the desk but aims the statement at Ratanish. “Probably not for a few months, once the season ends. But, if you can do this work… maybe it’s something I’d be good at.” Ashton’s confident smirk is back.
Ratanish squares up to Ashton and looks them up and down, slowly nodding. “Maybe. I’d probably want to test you out first, but maybe.”
“And how does one, try out?”
“Depends on what kind of skills you bring. But if you’re serious, I’ll bite. Here’s my card. You can text this number.”
“What skills do you bring?” Ashton asks, turning the thick card paper over in his hand.
“You’ll see.” It’s Ratanish’s turn to confidently smirk at Ashton.
“I’m not sure about this.” Orym is the most concerned of the four. “Should one of us go with you? What if you get hurt?”
“Maybe we should all go, and say we’re interested in the work?” Fearne suggests.
“I don’t know, this could actually be a good opportunity for me. If we all go together, it’s gonna look bad when they find out the three of you aren’t really interested in working for them.”
They argue the merits of different combinations of them going. Maybe roping in Dorian for this would make sense. But in the end, Ashton and Fearne are both adamant.
“I’m going in alone.” Ashton concludes.
“Yes, and I’m going with you.” Fearne steps up and towards them.
Fearne thinks it’s not unreasonable that she would be with Ashton as he “tried out” for a job.
Ashton checks their phone for the third time in ten minutes, as they huddle close to Fearne in a dark alley. “Why do I feel like we’re going to get jumped?”
“Probably because we almost certainly are.” Fearne responds in her typical light tone.
As if on cue, heavy footsteps and the scraping of large crates across pavement ring out. “Ashton, you came. And you brought your pretty friend.” Ratanish’s voice carries over the other noises. He walks towards the two holding a baseball bat. “You remember Rocky?” He gestures to the ogre of a man at his side. “And the rest of the team?” Four other large figures circle Ashton and Fearne.
“Yeah I came. Still hiring?” To an outsider, Ashton sounds cocky, but Fearne can sense the slight tremble in their voice.
“Fearne, is it?” Ratanish gestures towards her. “Please, stand back by Rocky. I have to run Ashton through a little test first.”
Ratanish hands Rocky the baseball bat, then removes a couple of thick rings from his fingers. He hands those over to the goon as well. Cracking his knuckles loudly, Ratanish steps closer to Ashton. “Well, let’s see what you’ve got.”
Ashton unloads with an epic slap to the left side of Ratanish’s face. The bigger man reels, as he wipes a drop of blood off of his lip. “Well, that was certainly unexpected.” He smiles and sends a flurry of punches back at Ashton.
The fight is over in a matter of minutes. Ashton blocks the first few punches and lands a solid uppercut. But then it’s all Ratanish. He makes Ashton, the Bell’s biggest tough guy, look like a lightweight. Ashton’s face is bloody, their jacket is ripped, as they catch their breath for a few seconds. Fearne is ready to jump in to Ashton’s aid, when Ratanish backs off.
“Had enough yet, pup?” Ratanish is sweating profusely and has the beginnings of a blackeye, in addition to the split lip that Ashton gave them with the quick first couple of hits. He’s been roughed up, but looks much better than Asthon does.
“Not- even close.” Ashton charges and barrels Ratanish towards an empty crate. The wood explodes as the two bodies make contact. Both land hard on the street. Ashton almost has Ratanish pinned, when the bigger man suddenly flips their positions and lands several hard elbows into Ashton’s side.
Ashton grunts in pain, curling in on themself. Fearne starts to move towards then, when Rocky stops her. Softly holding her shoulder in warning.
Ratanish, seeing the movement, holds a hand up. “It’s okay Rocky. I think we’re done for tonight.”
They let Fearne run over to Ashton. She kneels down on the ground and tentatively starts to wipe some of the blood from his face. “Hey, Ash?”
Ashton’s laugh is strangled. He rolls onto his hands and knees, then vomits. “Wow, that was fun. We should do this again sometime.” They grunt out towards the Paragon’s Call members.
“I have to say,” Ratanish has his arms crossed. “I am impressed. You want work with us, you’ve got it.”
Fearne and Ratanish help Ashton up and off the street towards a dark parked SUV.
“Come, we’ll get you patched up and then Rocky can drop you off at your home later.” Ratanish steers Ashton and Fearne into the back of the vehicle, before getting into the passenger seat.
Rocky drives them through winding streets, and eventually they arrive at a large estate. A buzzer sounds as a wrought iron gate opens to let the vehicle through. Fearne marvels at the long driveway up to a beautiful manor- from what she can tell in the dark, at least.
Ratanish and Rocky help Ashton into a room on the upper level, leaving Fearne to wander the ground floor on her own. Humming some showtune, she paces the halls, taking in all the splendour. She remembers Nana bringing her to places like this, with rich oil paintings in frames that probably cost more than her car. Several life-sized sculptures and statues line the halls. Fearne lets herself into a room towards the back of the manor. Technically it may have been locked, but obviously not locked very well.
Fearne is shocked but not surprised when she finds the room lined with weapons, potions, and tactical gear. Quickly getting to work, she pulls her phone out to snap a few pictures. Focusing on the labeled glass vials, she photographs everything she can as quickly as possible.
A yell down the hall catches her attention, and she quickly emails the photos to Orym and deletes them off her phone. Locking her phone and sliding it into her fanny pack, Fearne quietly slips out of the room. She makes sure it’s locked again (poorly) behind her.
“Ow, fuck!” Asthon’s yells are now intelligible. “That almost hurts more than the fucking punch!”
Some chuckles and murmured voices make Fearne think everything’s probably okay. She briskly walks back anyway. “Everything alright?” She’s slightly out of breath.
“Yeah, fine.” Ashton is holding a bag of frozen peas to their face. Hands wrapped and a few butterfly bandages on their face.
“Okay, good.” Fearne smiles, hoping her worry isn’t poking through. “I’ve been admiring all these beautiful pieces of art.”
Rocky grunts in response, and Ratanish just shrugs. “It’s not for everyone, but I’m glad you enjoy.”
Ashton frowns, then turns to Fearne. “Ready to go?”
“Yes.” Fearne does a quick curtsey to Ratanish. “Lead on Rocky.”
Ratanish nods and leaves Rocky to drive Fearne and a battered Asthon home.
Chapter 4
Fearne thought about bringing Ashton back to Milo’s house, but in the end, asked Rocky to drop them off at Nana’s. Not that Fearne didn’t like Ashton’s older sister. Milo was a lot of things Ashton wasn’t. She did well in school, was good at keeping their mouth shut in dangerous situations. As far as Fearne knew, Milo carried all the memories of her and Ashton’s childhood. Where Ashton couldn’t remember anything about their parents, or their upbringing before the age of 12, Milo would fill in the blanks. Or, Milo would smile sadly and protectively hide the hurtful truth from Ashton.
Fearne appreciated Milo most of the time. At least if she wasn’t with Ashton, Milo could be there to care about them. Fearne also didn’t fully trust Milo. Ashton carried baggage from their upbringing. Milo had been brought up in that same house. She wanted so much to keep Ashton safe, help them realize their full and beautiful potential. And Fearne was pretty sure, bumming off of Milo indefinitely was not how they were going to do that.
That’s how Ashton ended up sprawled out on Fearne’s bed, FCG attentively staying the night in Nana’s armchair, and Fearne sleeping on her couch.
Fearne’s alarm sends a piercing ring throughout the house. “Someone turn that gods-damned phone off!” Ashton shouts from the bedroom.
The phone is in the kitchen, and a half-asleep Fearne stumbles up from the living room to turn the racket off. She sees Orym’s little face on the screen, and groans. It’s not her alarm, Orym is calling her.
“Orym?” Fearne picks up the phone, answering sleepily.
“Fearne? Is everything okay?” Orym sounds worried, and slightly out of breath. Muffled sounds of the city can be heard through the phone.
“Yeah, why? What’s up?” Fearne holds the phone between her shoulder and her ear as she fumbles around to put on a pot of coffee.
“I tried calling you three times this morning. Is Ash with you? Are you home?” Orym seems to be calming down slightly, but the worry is still evident in his voice.
“Yeah, yeah. Ashton and FCG are here at Nana’s with me. I’m just putting on some coffee, if you want to come over.”
Fearne hears a slight exhale over the phone. “Okay, I’ll see you soon. I was already on my way over.”
He must have been running over, Fearne thinks. She vaguely feels bad for making him worry. She didn’t mean to, after getting home Fearne had texted a thumbs up to Orym last night. Letting him know she was all good. THen she had called FCG to help her out with Ashton, and then she had passed out on the cough, exhausted. Fortunately, the Paragon’s Call first aid attendant had done a good job. FCG had told them Ashton just needed to rest for at least a day.
Orym’s knock on the door wakes FCG from Nana’s old recliner, as they come out of the bedroom to join Fearne and Orym in the kitchen. Fearne is retelling last night’s adventure to Orym when their senior trainer comes limping into view.
“Hey FCG, I’m glad you’re here to take care of Ashton.” Orym gives the older man a curt nod. There’s still a bit of tension hungover from the Lake Korron tournament in Yios. Fearne knows Orym isn’t mad at FCG, but he probably feels like he has to watch the older man more carefully now.
“I’d do anything, for any of you. You know that Orym.” FCG leans against the counter to take a sip of the mug Fearne hands them. “Before you get too worried Orym, Ashton is fine. They’re tough. And, it looks worse than it is.”
Fearne clocks a darkening of Orym’s expression and gives her friend a hug. “I’m sure they’d love to see you Orym.”
Orym takes a step towards Fearne’s bedroom.
“Oh, wait!” Fearne pulls a plastic bottle out of the fridge. “Take this.” The unnatural blue stands out in her pale hand. “I think they could use the electrolytes.”
Smiling, Orym takes the bottle from Fearne and leaves the kitchen.
“Well, Ashton should be taking a break from practicing for today, but I know you have some stuff to work on.” FCG catches Fearne’s attention with lacrosse talk. “I can hang around here, or bring them home while you’re busy.”
“Thanks FCG. I think it might be a good idea to help Ashton recover here for now. Sorry it’s such a mess…” Fearne adds.
“Don’t you worry about that Fearne. You have a lot on your plate right now.” When Fearne doesn’t answer, FCG continues. “You start thinking about what you’re gonna’ do once the season ends?”
Fearne doesn’t know. Her parents expect her to go to university, even if they don’t take the time to see her in person. And even though they don’t plan on helping her with tuition either. Nana had left Fearne a college fund, which would be more than enough to financially support herself through a degree. But she’s not sure what she should study. Part of her wants to go away somewhere for school. Starpoint Conservatory, here in Jrusar, gave her a conditional acceptance already. She had missed entrance exams when Nana had died. But Starpoint said, as long as she passed first-year Marquesian and first-year Calculus with a C+, then she could attend and qualify for varsity in the spring.
“Maybe I should just go to Starpoint. They have a pretty good Psychology department. Maybe I could figure out why my family is so fucked up.”
Fearne goes to light an old blunt, and FCG stops her. “That sounds like a great start. And that, looks like a great end to your day.” FCG takes the blunt from her and stores it safely in one of the child-locked drawers in the kitchen. Probably just to deter her from reaching for it, Fearne is pretty sure FCG knows she can open those drawers now.
The young woman sighs and sips at her coffee. Thoughts floating back to that room in the Paragon’s Call house she found herself in last night. Worry for Ashton and the job they had agreed to, and the seriousness of this little investigation the Bells have taken on.
“This was all just supposed to be for fun.” Fearne’s staring off at the kitchen wall now.
FCG doesn’t respond right away, but Fearne knows they’re listening and formulating an insightful response. “You’re going to have to elaborate a little more on which thing you’re referring to.”
Fearne wishes FCG had let her smoke that joint. “I don’t know.” She shrugs. “This investigation. This game… Me and Ashton.”
She says that last bit before she has a chance to realize it’s coming out of her mouth. But if there’s one person who might understand, it’s FCG. She looks over and downwards at him.
They’re smiling back, because they’re always smiling. “It can all still be fun, Fearne. The other emotions just mean you’re growing up. It’s okay to care about stuff, it doesn’t make you weak, okay?” FCG pats Fearne’s arm.
She doesn’t know why, but all of a sudden, her cheeks are wet. Fearne’s vision blurs slightly, and FCG’s voice gets a little muffled.
“Oh, hey Fearne. It’s okay, you’re okay.” They hold her arm softly, and pull her into a warm hug.
Fearne quietly cries into FCG’s sweater. She can’t remember the last time she cried. She can’t remember the last time someone consoled her like this.
Evidence in hand, Orym, Fearne, and Imogen seek out the Greenseekers. Imogen had insisted they take time to shower and put on “something a little more official than workout clothes” to share what they’ve found out.
“What are you kids doing here?” Gus greets them in the office entranceway.
“We have information for you.” Orym waves his phone subtly. “Is there somewhere we can talk?”
Gus looks around the office, it’s pretty empty, but gestures for the three of them to follow him. They go down a hallway and around a corner towards a dark oak door with the Greenseekers crest on it. Olly is in the room, and gets up when they enter.
“Gus, what-?” She glares at Gus and then the Bells. “We’re busy.”
“These folks say they have some information for the investigation.” Gus sighs, and waves the three friends into chairs. He closes the door. “Feel safe to tell us what you know.”
Orym proceeds to show the Greenseekers the photos from Fearne on his phone. He has them backed up in two different places, but doesn’t tell the Greenseekers that, just in case. Fearne provides context to the photos.
“How did you get all this?” Olly is leaning over Gus to see Orym’s phone, her tone sounds more impressed now.
Orym looks to Fearne, who looks to Imogen. “What can I say?” Imogen smiles wryly. “We’re not just some inner-city kids who play lacrosse.”
Gus smiles at that. Olly sighs though. “This is interesting. But unfortunately, you’re too late. We already caught the guy.”
“You did? But how? You were barely on to Paragon’s Call-what four days ago?” Fearne guffaws.
“And what can I say?” Olly smirks at Imogen. “We’re professionals.”
Imogen lets a slight laugh out at that. “You got me there.”
“Look, this is real good information.” Olly continues. “And I won’t even ask how you got it.” Gus is nodding in agreement.
“Can you share any information about the guy you caught?” Orym asks, hopefully.
Olly steps back from Gus’ desk and returns to her own. She exchanges a look with Gus. “There will be a statement this afternoon. But, since you kids are so invested…”
“Ever hear of the Hishari?” Gus offers.
Orym and Imogen exchange looks, shrugging. They both turn to Fearne, head’s cocked. Neither of them has heard this name before. “Yeah, why?” Fearne’s answer gets incredulous looks from everyone else in the room.
“You start.” Olly nods towards Fearne.
“My understanding, from, you know my research and stuff…” Fearne starts nonchalantly. “The Hishari are like, a group of people loosely affiliated with the Earth Ashari religion.”
Olly continues to nod. “A group of extremists, taking the principles of the Earth Ashari in a very different direction than most practitioners. Their destructive activities peaked about two decades ago, and no one has heard much of them since.”
Orym is trying to catch Fearne’s eye, but she ignores him and stares straight into Olly’s. “So, what about them?”
“I’m not sure how you got on the Paragon’s Call tail… But we were following that lead too.” Olly’s eyes narrow slightly, returning Fearne’s smouldering stare. “But we were following a red herring. Maybe it was a coincidence, or maybe it was planted intentionally. The mayor’s would-be assassin was found dead this morning, in an apartment owned by a known former Hishari operative.”
“We thought, she was formerly Hishari. But evidence would say, she’s very much active.” Gus continues. “Her name will be in the press release. We’re looking into her now. But please, do not follow that lead.” Gus emphasizes that last bit. “You did great, thank you. Go home, and get ready for your rescheduled home games. I think we can re-open the arena now, what would you say Olly?”
Olly stands and offers her hand towards each of the Bells. “Thank you for your support on this case. If you’re unfortunate to be swept up in our work again, well… I’m sorry.”
“You kids have a knack for this though. If you’re considering the force as a career, let us know.” Gus smiles genuinely.
They thank the Greenseekers for their time, and somewhat dejectedly leave the police station.
“They Hishari? Why the fuck do you know about them, when the rest of us don’t, Fearne?” Imogen already has her phone out, it looks like she’s already skimmed three articles in the time between shaking Olly’s hand and getting out of the station.
Fearne shrugs, wondering if she should tell the truth. The truth is, Ashton had been talking in their sleep last night. The word ‘Hishari’ had come up more than once, and a curious Fearne knows how to use an internet search engine. But she wants to talk to Ashton about it first. She’s not sure how they’d take it with Orym and Imogen knowing too.
“These folks look real dangerous. I’m kind of glad we only got caught up with some loser thugs for hire.” Imogen’s eyes are still glued to her phone screen as they walk down the sidewalk. “There was this one attack, ten years ago. A whole town was taken out! Apparently people thought the organization had disbanded, but it looks like it just went underground. And then, all of a sudden, this awful attack. One little boy was the only survivor. Gosh, this is horrible.”
They get to where they had locked up their bikes. “I think I’m going to go home and check in on Ashton.” Fearne says.
“How are they? Do they want visitors?” Imogen asks, tentatively.
Fearne shakes her head. “I don’t think so. They’re doing fine, don’t worry. But I think they might be a little embarrassed?”
“Okay, no worries. What should we say to the coaches?” Imogen looks to Orym and back, addressing Fearne.
Fearne thinks about it for a minute. “I would just wait for now. Ashton can send them a note, and if they need one of you to help smooth things over… we’ll let you know.”
“I’m bringing you two and FCG dinner over tonight.” Orym is adamant. “So I’ll see you later regardless. I’m going grocery shopping now, text me if you need me to pick you up anything out of the ordinary, Fearne.”
“Wish them my best.” Imogen smiles, almost giving Fearne a hug, but then stepping back at the last minute.
Fearne closes the gap, and hugs Imogen, then Orym. The three friends all go their separate ways.
“Greenseekers find man behind the Mayor’s assassination attempt!” Ashton exclaims from the couch as Fearne enters Nana’s house.
He’s wearing clean clothes and is half sitting on the couch, supported by pillows. A partially eaten sandwich sits on the TV tray beside them. Ashton waves their phone at Fearne, who sits next to them on the couch.
“They found some asshole, dead. Who’s apparently responsible for the poisoning!” Ashton laughs bitterly. “No relation to Paragon’s Call. But they are relating him to the Hishari? a cult that hasn’t been heard of for, like, twenty years.”
Finally, Ashton looks up at Fearne. He seems angry. But Fearne isn’t sure where the focal point of that anger is. “Crazy, right? I actually just got back from talking to the Greenseekers. Though, they said we’d have to read the press release ourselves, and didn’t tell us much information about it. Can I see?”
Ashton hands her the phone, and she quickly sees a grainy headshot of the man. “This is the guy who was following us…” Then, she quickly scrolls down past the information she already knows. “…Hishari weapons… poison found in Mayor’s system… found dead in a rental apartment… Jiana Hexum… That name mean anything to you?” she looks up at Ashton as she finishes skimming the article.
Ashton’s eyes narrow. “Hexum… weirdly, yes? I mean, the name doesn’t mean anything, but I looked her up. And, her picture looks familiar.”
Fearne knits her forehead, thinking.
“Wait, did you say this would-be assassin was following us?”
“He’s 100% the guy I saw at the museum, and then again at the field.”
“That doesn’t seem like a coincidence.” Ashton is contemplating something. “Maybe I should be taking my martial arts training more seriously. Think Ratanish would like a sparring partner?”
Chapter 5
“Alright team.” Laudna clasps her hands together eagerly as she addresses the Bells. “It’s been a strange week, but I’m pleased to see most of you sticking to the training program.”
Fearne follows Laudna’s gaze to each of her teammates. She rests for a second or two longer on Ashton. They’re looking much better now, with just the remnants of a black eye.
“It’s almost a blessing in disguise that you got an extra week to learn my line change and break-out system. Ank’harel won’t know what hit them.” Laudna smiles her wide, toothy grin.
Once the Greenseeker’s press release went out, Chetney had been on the phone all day rescheduling games. The home opener would have to be toned down, but he had secured a couple of acts to fill in the intermissions for the rest of the homestand.
“Ank’harel always fields a good team. They have solid financial backing from J’mon Sa Ord, and that really attracts talent year after year.” Chetney gives the scouting report. He tells them to look out for a couple of players who like to run the ball on their own.
“Since Ank’harel plays a zone defence.” Laudna chimes in. “The way we break them is to make lots of passes and keep cycling. Move your feet, cut through the zone, and move the ball quickly. Remember that special play you ran in the Lake Korron tournament?”
Fearne nods as Laudna looks to her.
“You could do something like that all game long, not worrying about any other play. You probably won’t even need to worry about setting good picks.” As a refresher, Laudna draws out the sequence and passing options.
Pre-game pep talk complete, Orym stands. “Alright Bells, let’s give ’em hell!” And leads the team jogging and cheering out and into the bright lights of the arena.
The sell-out crowd is roaring, and Fearne is having the time of her life. She had forgotten the special feeling that comes with playing in front of a home crowd. Her crowd. There are signs being held up with her name and number. Little kids, adults, and senior citizens alike chant “Calloway” each time she dishes out a big hit. This is what all those boring practices are for. Fearne thinks. All the repetitive wall-ball that makes her feel insane. How could I forget this feeling?
She sprints up the floor, receiving a pass from a fresh Orym. Ashton is braced in their favourite spot by the crease, and she makes eye contact with them to start their little play.
Fearne fakes running in, causing two defenders to collapse to her. She’s shown her shot off this game, and Ank’harel knows not to let her fire away if they can help it. The fake-out allows her to step back and quickly toss the ball over to Orym who’s playing at the top of the house. His shot isn’t as much of a threat, but if he gets up close and personal with the goaltender, he’s deadly.
Orym challenges the defenders, and they’re forced to collapse towards him. Fearne and Orym play this game with each other, making it look like they’re going to challenge the net, only to step back and pass the ball off. With less than ten seconds left on the shot clock, they’ve drawn their defenders out quite far.
Seeing her opportunity, Fearne lobs the ball towards the net and a streaking Ashton. He catches the pass easily, takes a step towards the goal, and loops the ball backwards over his left shoulder. It’s a beautiful goal. The crowd goes absolutely wild. The Bells are up by one, with minutes left in the game. They’re able to hold off Ank’harel, and as the final buzzer sounds, they extend their win streak to four.
Laudna awards the hardhat to Ashton. “Where did you learn that move?” She’s grinning.
“I had some extra time on my hands this week…” Ashton replies sheepishly. “Thought, if I couldn’t practice, I may as well do some studying. I know Orym and Imogen can score like that, but I always thought it was too high level for me.” They shrug. “Worth a shot right?”
FCG is beaming from the back of the room. Imogen gives Ashton a big thumbs up. Fearne feels a warmth in her chest spread as Laudna places the hardhat on Ashton’s head, and a genuine toothy smile spreads across their face.
Fearne pulls the car up to the curb outside of Milo’s house. “You sure you’re good tonight?” She asks Ashton. Orym got a ride home from the game with Dorian tonight, so it’s just the two of them in the car.
“Actually, for the first time in a while, yeah. I think I am okay.” Ashton has a funny expression on their face. Fearne thinks it’s contentedness, but she isn’t quite sure. If it is, it worries her slightly that she’s rarely seen it before.
“You played really well tonight.” Fearne lowers her voice. “And that’s despite being very bruised everywhere.”
That causes Ashton to laugh. “Sometimes I think the pain helps me focus. Lets me push everything else away, except for the one thing in the moment that matters.”
Fearne nods at that. Sometimes she could be too good at focusing on one and only one thing. But she knows Ashton’s brain doesn’t work like hers does.
They’re sitting in the passenger’s seat, seatbelt undone, but Ashton doesn’t make a move to leave.
Fearne turns the engine off, turns to them, and asks. “What is it?”
A few beats of silence, before Ashton lets out a heavy sigh. “I’m going to ask Milo about Hexum. Are you busy? Can you…” They trial off uncomfortably, turning away from Fearne.
Fearne thinks she knows where this is going. “Hey.” She puts a hand on Ashton’s knee. “I can come in with you. If that’s what you want?”
Nodding, Ashton makes a move to get out of the car. Fearne follows and helps them grab their gear out of the trunk. They deposit the gear in the garage and Ashton bangs around loudly in the mud room. “Hey, Milo!”
A short figure greets them as Fearne and Ashton step into the main hallway of Milo’s house. The strong scent of something herbal hits Fearne’s nose. Then it mixes with the smell of stale cat litter and canned soup.
“Hey, I saw you got a big ‘W’ tonight. Congrats.” Milo greets Fearne and nods at Ashton. “Haven’t seen you in a minute Fearne, how you been?”
Fearne smiles with her mouth closed. “Good to see you Milo. I’ve been good, busy but good.”
“Milo, did you see that press release from the police the other day?” Ashton leaves their shoes on and waves Fearne into the living room, as he makes his way to the kitchen. “Want a beer?”
Fearne hears the sound of two bottlecaps being removed as she sits heavily on the couch that smells less like cat pee. “You know the answer to that, Ash.”
Milo sits on the couch that smells more like cat pee, and a calico hops up into their lap. “The one about the Mayor’s would-be assassin?”
Ashton enters the living room and passes Fearne a beer, keeping the other for themself. “That one. You read it?”
Milo nods, looking between Fearne and Ashton, while they pet the cat on her lap.
“Okay, so you saw this guy was connected to the Hishari. And Jiana Hexum.” Ashton is looking Milo straight in the eye.
“I recall reading that.” Milo responds curtly.
Fearne stays quiet, ready to jump in if need be. But for now, she feels this is a conversation Ashton needs to have with their sibling.
“How do I know Jiana Hexum, Milo?”
Five seconds pass. Then thirty. Milo doesn’t say anything. She sips at the mug she’s holding in one hand, still stroking the cat with the other. The silence stretches on, and just before Fearne is about to say something, Milo clears their throat. “Do you remember anything other than the name?”
Ashton looks at them eagerly, leaning forward, elbows on their knees. “Not the name, but the face. I know her face. Why?”
Milo’s eyes are searching Ashton for something, but Fearne doesn’t know what it is.
“That woman is bad news. Don’t get mixed up in her shit.” Milo spits, tweaking out a bit and shaking their head.
The tone surprises Fearne. She’s used to Milo being cagey, but they’re always either laid back or jittery. This tone holds warning full of spite or hate, or something else acidic.
“You’re going to have to give me more than that buddy.” Ashton leans back and sips at their beer.
“The reason you remember her face.” Milo gives in after another few minutes of silence. “Is because she used to be around the house a lot. When we were kids. Dad did work for her sometimes.”
“Were they friends?” Fearne ventures a question.
“You could say that.” Milo’s voice still full of acid. “As much as dad could be friends with anyone.”
Ashton is looking up at the ceiling, a pensive look on their face. “Milo. Were mom and dad Hishari?” They sit up straight and look at Milo.
Milo looks back at Ashton. “Now I know that look, Ashton. You remember something.”
“When I saw the Ashari exhibit was coming to town, it triggered something.” They tap the side of their head. “There’s a lot of real cool stuff in there, and some of it looked weirdly familiar. Like, I had assumed I’d seen it on TV or something.”
Fearne is nodding, that’s what Ashton had told her the night before the museum.
“But, and don’t get mad. I was in a fight last week.” Before Milo can protest, Ashton pushes on. “And I got knocked around pretty good, but I think it may have knocked some memories out of me? Cuz when I was reading that article, about Hexum, and the Hishari… I am certain I’ve heard it before.”
Milo nods slowly. “First of all, you should do your research. That’s a bad group of bad people. You do not want to get caught up with them, understand me?” Spiteful Milo has turned to older-sibling-warning Milo.
“I swear I’m not looking to get into any more trouble than I’m already in.” Ashton rolls their eyes at them.
“They’ll bring you, me, this lovely lady friend of yours, more trouble than even you know what to do with.”
“Okay, I get it. So, mom and dad?”
“Yeah.” Milo nods. “Yeah, they were Hishari. You know a little about the drug business dad was in? Well, it’s all connected. I don’t know all the details, just that I didn’t want anything to do with it. That’s why I left home when you were still little.”
Fearne didn’t know this part of Ashton’s past. She feels a little bit badly now for how hard she’s been on Milo. Now that she knows more.
“Just, please. Promise me you’ll stay away from this?” Milo pleads. “I don’t want to see you hurt again.”
“I pinky promise, Milo.” Ashton holds up their right pinky finger.
Chetney successfully rescheduled the entire home stand of games in the Bells’ main arena. Much to the delight of the Screeching Bells’ owner Eriks Eshteross. He pays the team a visit after the fourth game, congratulating them on a seven-game win streak to start the season.
“This is wonderful.” The old man grins holding his hands together on the top of the cane he carries. “Keep this up, and next season will be a no-brainer. You are all giving Jrusar something to rally behind, and it’ll continue to bring wealth and prosperity to the city!”
Fearne notices excitement in some of her teammate’s eyes, but not all of them. Eshteross seems to notice this too, when he adds. “I know I sound like this is all about money… and the truth of the matter is, to the league, it is all about money… But where this game came from and what it represents, is so much more than that.”
Eshteross’ eyes get misty as he continues. “Lacrosse has a full and rich history. The culture of building community, settling disputes. Developing skills of communication, teamwork, and resilience. It set the foundation for who I am as a person, and who each of you is becoming as young adults. I want, more than anything, to give back to my community. To foster a healthy, safe, environment for young people to face the challenges of life, together. I look at all of you, and I am inspired. I want others to see that too, to achieve what you are achieving.”
“We are ever grateful for the chance you gave us all.” Orym stands up, walks over to Eshteross, and shakes the older man’s hand. “We will do what we can to continue your legacy, and that of Mr. Bell’s.”
One by one, Fearne’s teammates get up and shake the owner’s hand. When it’s her turn, Eshteross says. “You are an inspiration out there, Miss Calloway. I hope to be seeing you play much more after this season.”
Fearne smiles softly, still not sure what her future will bring. But for now, she knows there are many lacrosse games left in the season. She is pretty sure Laudna has packed their schedule full of away tournaments too. Basking in the brilliance of her team and their unprecedented win streak, Fearne feels full of confidence on the road ahead to the Tal’Dorei Cup.
This is a fan fiction piece, characters are not my own. Everything is completely made up. It takes place in a non-magic Exandria and draws inspiration from Critical Role characters, the Screech Owls book series by Roy Macgregor, and real-life events.
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