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Blood Ties	By : maiafay376 Category: +S through Z > Silent Hill Views: 6706 -:- Recommendations : 0 -:- Currently Reading : 0
Disclaimer: I do not own Silent Hill, nor any of the characters from it. I do not make any money from the writing of this story.

Chapter List
- 8
- 9
- 10
Fleeting freedom, a tearful Lucia, and an unexpected encounter...
------------------Chapter 9: Flip of the Coin--------------------
Daniel gaped at Frank, his vocal cords frozen and mind blank. He caught a glimpse of 302�s door and noticed with relief that it was closed--hopefully locked forever. Frank stepped closer, nostrils flaring and the hold on Daniel's shirt tightened.
�I said answer me boy! What are you doing in 302? And what the hell were you doing with that?� he gestured to Old Ben�s bat propped against the wall behind him. Daniel breathed a sigh of relief at seeing that worthless piece of metal--vowing to never lose it again. Frank growled low in his throat, drawing Daniel�s attention back to him. �Do you realize we�ve been worried sick! Pounding on your door, calling your phone--we even got Bob�s buzz saw for Christ sake!� he shouted, his jaw clenched and that tiny vein throbbed angrily on the side of his temple. Daniel continued staring; his mouth clamped tight and unwilling to explain the events of the past week. He would sound insane.
Daniel swallowed as Frank jerked his gaze from his face and stared at the blood trickling from his ear. A noise of concern issued from the older man�s throat, his blue eyes huge as he followed the dark trail to Daniel�s collarbone.
�What in God�s name happened to you?� he said, indignation still present, but not as flagrant as before. The hold on his shirt slackened, and Daniel allowed Frank to inspect the wound-- all the while trying different explanations in his head at what sounded semi-plausible. Nothing came to mind except the truth, and that's what paralyzed him. Frank would never believe the truth.
�Did you hear me when I said we almost cut your door down?� Frank jerked his head in the direction of Daniel�s room. �I had Bob get his buzz saw because we couldn�t jimmy the lock. But when we came back--lo and behold, your door�s wide open and you�re nowhere to be found. We searched your room, downstairs, the lobby, the parking lot--couldn�t find you. Finally, I told Melanie and Bob to go back to their apartments and I would continue looking myself. It wasn�t until I saw door 302 ajar that I put two and two together, and found you standing there in the middle of the living room. I called your name, but you didn�t respond. You just stood there with this weird, blank expression on your face, like you were off somewhere else. You didn�t even acknowledge me until I grabbed you and pulled your skinny butt out here��
Frank sighed with irritation and settled his hands upon Daniel�s shoulders, giving him a long, hard look. �Daniel, talk to me. What�s going on? What happened to your ear? And while we�re at it, son--what the hell happened to your apartment? I saw the walls�they--they--� Frank grimaced and shook his head, revulsion tingeing his words. �God Daniel, what possessed you to create those things? I never seen such�depraved, twisted imagery in all my life--and trust me when I say I�ve seen plenty in my time. How--why did you paint on the walls? Why did you paint those �creatures�?� When Daniel looked away, his voice became stern, each word clipped and tight. �Why did you ruin the furniture? The carpet? The stove, fridge--countertops? That room�s in shambles--everything�s smashed--and what isn�t smashed, it�s dented, and whatever�s dented is tore up. I want an explanation Daniel! You knew room 302 was off limits! I don�t know how you got inside, but you must had known we were looking for you! Melanie said she called several times, but you never answered your phone! Damn it! Talk to me! What happened?�
Daniel remained mute, unable to answer. To avoid Frank�s questioning gaze, his eyes flickered down the hall, noting that all surfaces appeared normal; no blood, no pulsing walls�normal. Only he and Frank stood outside room 302. He wondered where Melanie was, or Bob for that matter. Did they leave? What time was it?
His attention snapped back to Frank as the super squeezed his shoulders, anger smoldering anew. The older man tried to keep his voice level, but Daniel could tell he was riding the edge of fury; bitter disappointment shone in his words. �Why are you insulting my generosity? I cut you a deal when you moved in, I extended my hand in friendship; I tried to make sure you settled into your new home with little difficulty. I know you�re grieving son; I understand the rage, the hurt, and the blame all too well. You hate the whole damn world right now�and believe me--that�s all right. Hate and despise all you want--but don�t use it as an excuse to vandalize my property! You�ve betrayed my trust, and that�s not something I take lightly.�
Frank sighed, his face drooping with regret. The hand upon Daniel�s shoulder fell, and the super stepped away. �I�m afraid I�m going to suggest you find somewhere else to live. I�ll give you a few days and the money for another apartment, but I can�t have this in my complex, not again�I�m sorry, son.�
For some reason, that statement broke the paralysis. After everything he had gone through, this was the last thing he expected. Kicked out of his home after the first week--that had to be a new record.
He felt so frustrated--he wanted to explain it all: the doll, Walter, Mother, Henry�Valtiel--everything. But, he knew Frank would never believe his story without hard evidence, and the only thing that remained from his ordeal was some ruined furniture and crazy paintings; things that he could not blame on anyone but himself. What could he say? How could he illustrate that his experience was real? He had been in hell for the past week and barely survived. His mind and emotions were pushed to the edge; he had almost submitted to Walter--almost let Valtiel drag him away. He recalled with disgusted clarity at how he had crawled to Walter in those final moments, crying and will broken. Where would he be right now if Frank and the others had not intervened? Tortured? Dead? Held in limbo like those souls floating around Mother?
Reality of how close he had come to dying settled like a heavy weight--fear and uncertainty tipping his emotions like a boat upon stormy waters. Tears suddenly sprang in Daniel�s eyes and he inhaled, his face crumpling. He began to cry; defeated and angry sobs racked his lean frame until he sagged against the wall and buried his head in his arms.
�D-Daniel?�
The voice was female, scared and wonderfully familiar. Daniel looked through his tears and saw Frank halt Melanie�s approach with his open palm, shaking his head. He glanced back at Daniel, worry showing in his eyes. �Not so fast, Ms. Knight�give him a few moments to calm down.�
Daniel sobered within minutes and wiped his face, irritation making his movements jerky. Frank waited, his hand still holding Melanie back. Her strawberry hair fell loose over one shoulder; her lower half dressed in a long navy skirt, and those bunnies of Lakeside were a welcome sight upon the blue shirt she wore. They played ring around the rosie on her stomach, their pockets full of yellow posies and each petal danced to the ground around them. She stared at him with relief, but her expression grew anxious when she spied the blood on his neck. �W-what happened to y-your ear?" She tried maneuvering around Frank�s hand, but he shook his head again and grabbed her arm. She made a noise of frustration and actually glared. �F-Frank, please, let m-me see if he�s okay��
�No Melanie, you�ll only make it worse. I have no idea what he�s �on� right now. Just let him be.�
�On?� Daniel found his voice, but it came as a low croak. �What are you talking about? You think I�m on drugs?� His voices steadied as he blinked at Frank, amazed. Then he began to laugh; giggling at first--until hysterical, gasping bouts rocked his body. He leaned against the wall as the tittering clawed from his throat Tears flowed again, and he held his stomach. Melanie winced and Frank stared at him with unease, prepared to launch himself at Daniel if he went violent. This made Daniel laugh harder and he fell on the carpet with a muffled thump. �You think I�m on f-fucking drugs?� he sputtered, shaking his head and wiped his face again.
�I�m glad you find this so amusing, son; at least one of us does.�
Daniel stopped laughing and glared at the super from the floor, anger stirring. �I�m not on drugs! Why would you think that? Something happened to me; I just don�t know how to explain it without sounding crazy!�
�Try me,� Frank let go of Melanie and came forward, looming over Daniel like a disappointed father. �Because all I see is your bloodshot eyes and a bunch of demented paintings on the walls. Gladys told Bob that she caught you talking to thin air last week, and suspected you were using drugs by your behavior. I know artist types myself--most like to gain their motivation by getting high or drunk. An artist used to live in room 202, and occasionally I would catch him in one of his �inspired� moods. I�m not a fool Daniel--don�t play me like one!�
�I�m not playing you for a fool! My eyes are bloodshot because I haven�t slept in a week! You shouldn�t assume all because Gladys is a nosy bitch that I�m using drugs!� said Daniel, completely irate. �Do you want me to take a piss test Frank? Give me the fucking paper cup! I�ll take one right now!� Daniel rose and panted against the wall, his indignation a volatile thing. Frank retreated a step, eyeing him warily.
�Alright, fair enough," he said. "If you�re not high then why haven�t you slept? Why is your apartment a mess, and what happened to your ear?� Frank's voice clouded with doubt. Melanie stayed quiet and off to the side, watching the exchange with a worried frown. Daniel ignored Frank�s questions and focused on her, his eyes pleading.
�Did you get my messages? I-I called you several times over the last week, but I�m not sure they got through.�
�Y-yes, I received a few,� she looked at Frank as if asking permission to continue, and when the super nodded, she resumed. �M-most were really garbled though, and I-I couldn�t make out the words, b-but I knew you were in t-trouble. I would�ve come sooner, b-but my Grandpa had a s-stroke. I-I left as soon as my parents would let m-me.�
Daniel looked away, feeling guilty in spite of his own trauma. �I�m sorry about your grandpa," he said. "I didn�t know. I just wanted to talk to someone since I couldn�t get out of my apartment; I�ve been trapped inside until just a few minutes ago--�
�Excuse me?� Frank interrupted. �What do you mean trapped inside? Your door�s wide open!�
�No, it wasn�t! Not until today! I heard you all outside a few hours ago. I had shouted, threw things, but no one heard me!�
�That�s ridiculous! If you truly did as you claim, we should�ve heard you!�
�But you didn�t! It was like I was out of phase of something--or in some other dimension--�
�Now you�re just talking crazy, son.�
�Damn it, Frank!� Daniel spat, his fists clenching. �This is what I was afraid of! You think I�m nuts! I�m telling you the truth! I couldn�t open the windows; I couldn�t go near the door! Something would make me get sick if I did! My food rotted in my fridge; I kept seeing things in the mirror; I had some freaky bitch calling me on the phone, claiming she was my sister--it was one thing after another!�
Frank shook his head, his lips pressed in a tight line. �Sounds like you was hallucinating to me--�
�I wasn�t!� Daniel shouted. �I�m telling you the truth! Something is wrong with my room--�
�So you painted the walls to make it better?� Frank barked a derisive laugh and folded his arms.
Daniel fought the urge to scream, angry tears welling. When he spoke, his voice quivered, the pent up rage and terror over the last week finding release in his words. �I painted because it was the only time �they� would leave me ALONE! It was my only solace! I did what she wanted so I would have peace for a few moments. Did you ever stop and wonder how the hell I could paint so much without buying supplies? I had one tube of black, one tube of red; my thinner was low, and those other colors wouldn�t fill every canvas I owned--let alone the fucking walls! I never left to get more paint Frank! Why don�t you ask around since everyone watches everyone else. Did anyone see me? Did anyone see a doped up artist carrying an arm-full of paint to his room? Because that�s how much I would have needed to cover my entire apartment!�
Frank swallowed and worked his jaw, regarding Daniel with stunned disbelief. �You say this, but you have no way of proving it to me. Now, you claim �she� made you do it. Who is she?� he looked at Melanie, who in turn, seemed just as confused. Unlike Frank, however, she seemed to believe Daniel and her gaze was sympathetic.
Daniel slumped against the wall and rubbed his forehead, knowing that what he said next would only solidify Frank�s opinion that he had lost his mind. He expected when this conversation finally ended--the men in white would drag him kicking and screaming from the building. Yet still, he had to convince the super somehow. �This will sound nuttier than what I just said--but �she� was my muse�yet, not my muse. She was something else entirely, but I didn�t know �what� exactly until I went into 302.�
Frank glowered at him, raising his eyebrows. �Yes, while we�re on that subject, how did you break into 302? The lock showed no tampering, nor was the door damaged in any way. How did you get inside?�
Daniel shrugged, looking miserable. �She let me in, I guess.� When he saw Frank�s expression, fury rose again. �I�m telling you, the door swung open on it�s own! I saw them Frank--Vivian and Peter Sullivan! She killed them and left the Walter on the floor! She made him hear things that his father said, but it wasn�t true--then she came after me�cornered me, breathed into my ear and made it bleed.�
�What?� Frank took a step back, his face draining. �How do you know the Sullivan�s? Who told you their names?�
�I told you I was there!� Daniel insisted, his voice a low growl. �Their apartment had roses on the walls right? Green and pink coverings on the couch? A big TV against one corner, pictures of pretty landscapes in the wall? They also had a record player by the window, and a jar of mayo left out on the counter. Vivian liked to make mayo and banana sandwiches didn�t she Frank? I bet when you found Walter lying on the bedroom floor, there was a banana peel left in the garbage; maybe some sugar on the countertop? The knife she used to spread the mayo in the sink?� Daniel�s voice grew louder as he spoke, watching with satisfaction as the super�s face went gray.
�That--that isn�t possible. There�s no way you could know that��
�Yes, I know it�because I was THERE! Every night at the same time, music played and the Sullivan�s died. Then the baby would cry--and it would start all over again the next night! I�ve heard it over six times in a row Frank! I wanted it to end! I had to see for myself what had happened to them!�
Before Frank could reply, the door to 301 swung open, and Gladys stumbled out, looking disheveled in her white bathrobe and full-length lemon nightgown. �What in heaven�s name is all the shouting about? It�s two in the morning!� She looked over the trio with annoyance, then her eyes went wide at the sight of Daniel�s bloody ear. �Oh my goodness! What happened?�
Frank grimaced and waved his hand. �Nothing Gladys; I�m taking care of it. I�m sorry we woke you, but please go back to your apartment; there�s nothing that concerns you here.�
�No--no, I do believe this concerns her.� Eager for another target which to vent his rage, Daniel whirled on Gladys, his incensed expression causing her to back away. �You�ve lived here for how long?�
�Daniel, leave Ms. Porter out of this�� Frank warned, his eyes darting from Daniel to Gladys.
Daniel turned, his temper rising. �Everyone in this building is a part of this!� he hissed, and fixed his gaze on the cringing woman before him. �Answer my question Gladys, how long have you lived here?�
�I--uh, about four years I believe,� she looked at Frank with fear, then back at Daniel. She fiddled with the collar of her nightgown, worrying the lace with repetitive motions. �Why? What is this about?�
�Oh, I don�t know, everyone around here likes to pretend nothing�s wrong; that they don�t see or hear things out of the ordinary. You�ve lived next door to 302 for a long time. You must have heard odd noises in the middle of the night; screams, crying, thumping--anything like that?�
Gladys scoffed. �Well, no--no, of course not! Why are you asking me this?� she tried to appear indignant, but he saw something flicker in her eyes. Daniel pounced on that flicker.
�I think you have, Gladys," he said. "I think you�ve heard quite a few things that you can�t explain. Come on, admit it! You hear them every night don�t you? Over, and over and over again. You probably don�t sleep well, do you? I imagine you toss and turn; maybe have quite a collection of earplugs and sleep aids, right? Problem is--no matter what you do, or how tired you are--you still can hear it, Gladys. You can still hear the screaming--the baby as he cries and cries--I bet you hear him the more than the rest don�t you? Don�t you?� Daniel edged closer and she backed away, clutching the robe tighter, her eyes bulging in panic.
�This is nonsense! I don�t hear anything! I don�t know what you�re talking about! Frank--Frank do something!�
�Daniel stop it! We�ll continue this in my office, leave Ms. Porter alone.� Frank interceded and planted himself between Daniel and Gladys. He fixed Daniel with a reproving look and forced him to step back. �Leave her be�I mean it.�
�Leave her be? She�s the one telling everybody that I fucking use drugs!� Daniel peered around Frank�s body, and snarled in her direction, his emotions boiling out of control. �You don�t know me! You have no idea what I�ve gone through in the last week! You had no right telling lies!�
�Okay, okay, calm down son, let�s go downstairs and discuss it.� Frank kept his voice level, soothing. He put one hand on Daniel�s shoulder, and with the other he shooed Gladys away. �Gladys please, just go back to your apartment. Daniel is very upset right now and in need of medical attention; you�re making things worse by antagonizing him.�
�Antagonizing him? He�s the one who--�
�Gladys, let it go. Go back to your room!�
Someone suddenly coughed and cleared his throat, irritation rasping his voice. �What the hell is going on? You woke us both out of a sound sleep! Do you know what time it is?�
Frank audibly groaned as Carl and his mother Martha wandered toward the small group.
A cranky frown plastered on Carl�s face, making his lips droop. His skinny legs looked pale under the black bathrobe he wore--more like chalk sticks than flesh. The chrome spot upon his head shone bright in the overhead lights, and the hair surrounding it looked as if someone used a weed whacker instead of a comb. His mother peeped from behind his shoulder, her hair in similar disarray, and wearing a pink granny-style nightgown. She gaped at Daniel, wringing her hands as her mouth hung open with awe. �Oh, the poor thing! He�s bleeding! Can�t you see that Carl? He�s bleeding all over his shirt!�
�Carl, take your mother back to the apartment and stay there. This is a private matter!� Frank glared at the other man, giving him a clear warning to leave. Carl dismissed it of course, eyeing Daniel with curiosity and distaste.
�Oh, I see you found the kid," Carl gave an unpleasant smile. "So, he didn�t OD like everyone thought? That�s nice. Good thing there wasn�t a body to clean up. That would�ve meant the cops sniffing around here for days--and believe me, that�s always a pain in the ass," he nodded to Frank as if the super would understand his irritation. "Remember when that guy disappeared two years ago? Damn pigs wouldn�t leave for nothing. Drove me nuts!�
�That �guy� has a name!� Daniel said, and jerked his shoulder out of Frank�s grasp. �His name is Henry, and he�s still trapped in that place! I have to find a way to get him out of there--save him from Walter!�
Carl stared at Daniel with bemusement, and then gave Frank a crooked grin, winding his finger along the side of his head in a �coo-coo� motion. �What is he blabbing about? Did he hit his head or something?�
�N-no he didn�t. Leave h-him alone!� Melanie piped up, her face red and angry. She pushed past Frank and stood next to Daniel, linking her arm with his. He was grateful for that warmth, and leaned against her. He felt drained and he shivered.
Melanie turned on Frank, her jade eyes beseeching. �Why w-won�t you believe him Frank? H-he�s telling the t-truth! He told me he s-saw Walter Sullivan the s-second day he moved in! We didn�t know w-who the man was until we looked h-him up on the internet. T-tell them about the amulet Daniel, tell them about the n-notes you showed me!�
Daniel sighed and closed his eyes, untangling his arm from hers. �I think the letters are scattered around my apartment, but I don�t have the Saint Medallion anymore--it broke�the doll ruined it.�
�Doll? What doll?� said Frank. He appeared so bewildered and unsure that Daniel felt sorry for him. However, that sentiment would not deter from venting his frustrations.
�It�s just another thing for you not to believe Frank, so don�t worry about it!� Daniel said.
Frank bristled. �I�m trying to give you the benefit of the doubt Daniel! I�m trying very hard to find some credibility in what you�re saying to me. Put yourself in my shoes for a moment would ya? What would you think if someone had told you they just visited the past, saw ghosts, and was trapped in their room for a week? How would you take it?�
�Oh, so he visited the past did he? Wow, that�s some good shit you�re on kid�� Carl interjected and leaned against the wall. He was enjoying this. He seemed to thrive on the chaos and drama; basking in the confusion like a snake sunning upon a rock. His mother hovered near, addled, and could not seem to tear her eyes away from the blood on Daniel�s neck.
�Oh, shut up you annoying man!� Gladys snapped. She glared at Carl and folded her arms. �No one wants to hear your opinion! This young man needs help, and belittling him won�t solve anything!�
�If I want your opinion, Ms. Porter, I�ll ask for it. I can say what I damn well please.� Carl said, his eyes rolling. �This kid�s a nutcase, and I can�t believe Frank�s encouraging this! Call the hospital or police and make them deal with him. You�re not his father Frank--cut him loose.�
Melanie actually growled along Daniel�s side and stepped toward Carl, green eyes flaming. �Y-you jerk! This c-conversation doesn�t even concern you! F-Frank told you to go back to your room!�
�Melanie, it�s fine. He�s not worth it.� Daniel stroked her hair, catching a faint whiff of vanilla. He inhaled, drawing the scent in and allowed it to calm him. He needed to get a hold of himself; his emotional outbursts were hindering instead of helping him. Frank and the others would not believe what he said if he screamed like a lunatic. He needed to be rational--levelheaded.
Daniel held Melanie�s hand, intertwining her fingers with his and took comfort in her presence. He faced Frank, taking a deep breath and ignored all others--speaking only to him. �Frank, please�I know what I�m saying seems ludicrous, but I�m telling you the truth. When I saw you last Thursday checking the lock on 302, you seemed ashamed that you were doing so. Why Frank? Why be ashamed if nothing�s wrong? You know there�s something evil in that room. You knew it from the moment you saved Walter�s life,� he paused, watching the expression of disbelief flutter over Frank�s features. �Yes, I know all about that Frank, because Walter told me. He called you his �savior� and said he despised you for what you did. Walter thinks that apartment�s his territory. You said it yourself; everyone that rents that apartment either disappears, dies, or leaves suddenly. I�m telling you that Walter still lives--in some form. You may not want to believe it, but I saw him my first day here--when I had no idea who he was!"
Daniel took a breath, and forced his voice calmer. �And since that day, he�s been tormenting me, manipulating me, stalking me; he locked me inside my room for a week until I agreed to meet his �mother�. Well, guess what? I met her, and let�s just say she�s a nasty bitch. She�s the reason why my ear looks chewed off, and I don�t understand why his mother fixated on me--but I need people to confide in; people that can help me figure this out. Try to believe me�even if it�s just a little bit. Walter�s real��
Daniel swallowed, his mouth dry and throat tight. Frank gazed at him, chewing his lower lip and then darted glances at Gladys and Carl. They watched with doubtful stares, looking from Frank to Daniel with anticipation over what the super would decide. Everyone was so intent on each other--that they missed the arrival of another.
�He�s telling the truth,� interrupted a female voice. �I�ve seen that Walter guy too.�
Daniel jerked his attention to the newcomer along with everyone else, all blinking at Lucia in puzzlement as the brunette stood before them, dressed conservatively in a long sleeved purple shirt and blue jeans. Sunglasses adorned her face, oversized and made her mouth seem small. He wondered why she wore them, and why she dressed so unlike her usual attire.
Silence loomed long after she spoke, no one willing to break it until Lucia sighed, her voice wavering. Daniel let go of Melanie�s hand, and approached the other woman, sensing that something was wrong. �Lucia? When did you see him? Did he do anything to you?�
Lucia gave a quick, angry laugh, the sound morphing into a sob. She trembled a little, rubbing her nose as she sniffed back her tears. �Yeah, Sunshine�I started seeing him right after that dream I had about you. I didn�t know who he was at first, only that he kept knocking on my door everyday. I almost let him in the first time, because I thought it was you--but when I looked through the peephole, this strange man stood outside my apartment. He had dirty blond hair, green eyes and a dark blue coat zipped up to his chin. I think he saw me somehow--or he knew I was looking at him, because he suddenly smiled; this horrible, creepy smile that made me realize that if I opened the door--he was going to hurt me.� Her lip quivered and she drew a shaky breath. �He kept knocking and knocking, every day--mostly when Andre wasn�t home; but then he started doing it when he was. That�s why I knew it wasn�t you that morning in the hall, but I couldn�t say anything to Andre�he, he would only get mad and assume that I was cheating on him.� She started sniffling, her face scrunching as tears threatened again.
Gladys uttered a sympathetic noise, moved by the Lucia�s pain. Frank and Carl shifted in discomfort, and Martha stayed against the wall, watching all with glassy eyes. Melanie came to stand along Daniel�s side, leaning close as she slipped her hand over his.
Lucia fidgeted a little under their scrutiny, but came closer. �I finally got tired of it you know�tired of hearing him knock all the time. I didn�t want to go outside because I thought he would be there, waiting for me.� She began crying silent tears, wiping the wet trails that flowed beneath her glasses. �So, I told Andre about him a few hours ago when he came home from work--but it didn�t go like I planned. I thought he would protect me--that he would want to keep me safe, but�he--he misunderstood.�
She removed her sunglasses then. Only one chocolate brown eye stared at them, the other swelled shut; purple contusions and dried blood caked the inner corner, marring the sculpted cheek beneath. A jagged cut laced her brow, created by a ring or nail scraping when Andre had struck her. Her lower lip quavered as she stood stiff under their gaze, and then lowered her eyes in shame.
�Oh my God! You poor thing!� Gladys immediately appeared at Lucia�s side, fussing like a mother hen. �I can�t believe he did this to you�that disgusting man! Frank, she needs to go to the hospital!�
�Where is he?� asked Frank quietly, and Daniel turned to look at him, flinching as the look on the older man�s face made his skin crawl.
�I don�t k-know! He was supposed to protect me, not smack me around! That Walter man will come back won�t he?� Her one eye gazed at them in fear. �I-I don�t know where else to go, or who else to talk too. You believe me right? That I saw him? I don�t know what to do! Please help me!� Lucia said with a high-pitched cry and she covered her face. Gladys looked at Frank, uncertain, and petted the other girl�s head as she muttered nonsensical words of comfort.
Watching Lucia with a sickened expression, Carl approached Martha, taking her by the arm. �Come on Mother, I think this is enough excitement for one night.� He looked queasy and kept swallowing as if he were about to vomit.
�But Carl, look at her eye! She needs a doctor! Who�s going to take her to the hospital?�
Let them worry about it Mother, you need to go back to bed. Remember what Dr. Motts told you? You can�t stay up all night; it�s not healthy. Now, come on��
�But--�
�Mother, I said come on!� Carl tugged harder as Martha resisted, the older woman digging her toes into the carpet and clung to the wall.
�Mrs. Stewman please, just go back to your apartment. There�s nothing more you can do here, we have it under control.� Frank said, trying to smile, but it never made it to his lips. Gladys continued consoling Lucia, taking her sunglasses away when she tried to put them back on.
�No, dear, that might irritate it.�
�But I don�t want people to see me like this�� Lucia warbled and started crying again.
Daniel stared at Lucia, his jaw moving back and forth as he thought of the many ways he could hurt Andre. His gaze flitted to Carl and Martha as they disappeared around the corner, noting that Carl was a squeamish asshole and deserved his own swollen eye. Melanie remained silent as she watched everyone and squeezed Daniel�s hand for reassurance. Frank stepped forward, clearing his throat for attention and his voice resonating authority.
�Okay. Here�s what we�re going to do. Lucia, would Andre still be at your apartment?�
�I-I don�t think so�after he hit me he took off, and that was around midnight or so.� Lucia leaned her head on Gladys�s shoulder and closed her uninjured eye.
�Since he might still be around, I�ll call the police and search the building. Gladys, can you take Lucia to the hospital? South Ashfield Memorial?�
�Yes, just let me get decent and I�ll drive her.�
�Good. I'll let the police know which hospital. Now�your turn.� Frank pursed his lips and sighed as he looked at Daniel. �Do you need to have your ear checked out?�
Daniel shook his head. �No, it looks worse than it is. I just busted my eardrum that�s all; it'll heal.�
Frank nodded. �Then I want you and Melanie to wait for me in my office; we have a lot to discuss and I need to know everything about your encounter with Henry--since I assume you and he apparently �met� at some point. Do you need anything from your apartment? I�ll watch the door while you retrieve it.�
�I don�t want to set foot in my apartment Frank, I�d rather sleep in the middle of the street at this point.� Daniel said.
�Alright then, I�ll see you two downstairs.�
Melanie nodded and began walking, but Daniel tilted his chin stubbornly. �Does this mean you believe me?�
Frank hesitated, regarding him. He looked as if he aged ten years and Daniel felt a wave of guilt at what he put the other man through. Frank was doing the best he could under the circumstances, and Daniel had made things difficult by acting like a spoiled brat.
�I said we have a lot to discuss, and I�ll leave it at that,� he paused, considering his next words with care. �But--for what it�s worth�let�s just say my eyes are opened a little.� He gestured to the bat sitting against the wall. �Don�t forget your bat, and Melanie--don�t let him out of your sight. I want to see both of you sitting in my ugly-ass desk chairs when I get back--got it?�
�Y-yes sir.� Melanie managed a weak smile and tugged Daniel�s arm. He snatched the bat from the wall and gave Lucia a gentle pat on the back as he passed. She twitched her lips in a weepy smile, which dropped the instant it formed.
�See you later, Sunshine.�
�Yeah�later. Stay safe okay? Don�t worry, Andre won�t hurt you again. If the police don�t catch him�Frank will, and if I were Andre--I�d let the police get me first.� he said. �And don�t worry about Walter either�I think he�s more concerned with me than you right now; at least, that�s what I hope.�
�Thank you,� Lucia whispered, a tear sliding down her face before she buried her head again in the crook of Gladys�s shoulder.
Gladys led Lucia down the hall and Melanie pulled him around the corner. Frank brushed past them, glowering, his face like stone as he marched down the stairs and disappeared into the two hundred wing.
Daniel said little as he and Melanie descended the stairs and through the doors of the first floor. Frank�s office was unlocked, and they both filed in; Daniel plopped into the nearest chair as Melanie took the seat next to the window. He insisted they leave the office door open, as the sudden fear of becoming trapped again overwhelmed him, and he felt better seeing the hallway. He set the bat across his lap, rolling it over in his hands and let the smooth, cool metal comfort him. Melanie watched with troubled relief, uneasy despite he now sat in front of her mostly unharmed.
�I-I thought he got you,� she stated after a few minutes of Daniel�s restive fidgeting. �I-I thought we were going to f-find a body, or worse--n-nothing at all.�
Daniel paused his twirling, and nodded. �I can�t begin to explain what I went through, but I can say I�m happy to be here with you right now. I thought I would never get out of there. I saw so many things--� he stopped, shuddering as memories of the doll, Valtiel, and Mother shrouded his mind. �I just hope we can do something about Walter�it�s not right that he�s walking around and hurting people. Henry�s trapped in his world�I need to find a way to free him.�
Melanie pulled her hair into a loose bun, a hair clip materializing out of nowhere and stuck neatly in place. A thin slit of skin showed when she raised her arms, creamy flesh of her abdomen contrasting the blue of her shirt. Daniel felt his eyes drawn to that narrow space, appreciating the flawless texture of her skin. Her emerald eyes narrowed as she frowned, still playing with her hair. �S-so how do you know this? Did you actually s-speak to him?�
�Yeah, I did,� Daniel stopped staring at her stomach and told her most of the conversation that he and Henry had, detailing the desperation and rage that Henry possessed, but also his benevolent nature to help a complete stranger. �Two years he�s been running from Walter! Can you imagine that? That must have been hell.� Daniel closed his eyes. �He tried to help me, but it was too late at that point. Walter sent that doll thing to wear the medallion down, and then Valtiel kept popping up--�
�W-who?�
�Crap, it�s a long story Mel, I have no idea how to start,� he rubbed his forehead, sighing. His stomach growled loud and obnoxious. He should eat something soon.
She scooted her chair closer and patted his shoulder. �J-just start at the beginning okay? It w-will make for a s-smoother telling when F-Frank gets here.�
�I�m too hungry to talk. Is there something to eat around here? I haven�t had anything since�since�� he paused, thinking. �Damn, I don�t remember the last time I ate.�
�Hmmmm�� Melanie looked around, frowning. �N-no, I don�t think Frank has anything h-here to eat.� She smiled suddenly, green eyes sparkling. �If you w-want, I could run up to my r-r-room and grab you something--� She stopped, biting her lip. �Oh, w-wait�Frank said to stay h-here didn�t he? C-crap.� Crestfallen, she gave him a dejected look, shrugging her shoulders in apology. �J-just hold on a bit longer, okay? After our m-meeting, I�ll make you something�p-promise.�
�I have a feeling it will be breakfast time by then.� Daniel grumbled along with his stomach.
�Then I�ll just m-make you b-breakfast.� She smiled, her hair glowing in the light. She fiddled with it again, taking out the bun and gathered it into a ponytail.
Daniel smiled at her strange mannerisms, realizing how much he had missed her this past week. His gaze then shifted to the doorway, and jerked in surprise as someone streaked past. He looked at Melanie--then back at the hall. �Who was that? Did you see someone just go by?�
�What? Where? I didn�t see anyone.� Melanie stiffened and peered around the room.
Daniel rose from his chair and approached the doorway, his palms sweating. �I saw someone rush by here, but I didn�t recognize them.� He tried to shake the feeling of unease--but after his hellish experience in room 302 and that week of madness he just endured--his nerves were wound tight. �I�m going to see who that was.�
Melanie stumbled off the chair and followed him as he went into the hall. �D-Daniel, wait a minute! J-Just stay in h-here, Frank will be back any s-second!�
�I want to make sure it wasn�t Walter!� Daniel�s gaze swept the hallway and found nothing out of the ordinary. Agitated, and unable to shake the feeling that something was very wrong, he shoved open the double doors and peered over the stair railing into the lobby below.
The room was empty, but then a scraping sound came from above--like someone trailing ringed fingers over the banister. Daniel twisted his neck and glimpsed twinkling gold chains, a dirty white tank top, and the mocha shine of a recently shaved head.
Andre.
Anger pumped through him, making his head throb. That bastard was still in the building!
He retreated through the double doors, fetching Old Ben�s bat and ignored Melanie�s questions as she followed him back into the hall. �D-Daniel who is it? I-Is it Walter?�
�No�Andre.� Steel glinted in his voice, and Melanie grabbed his arm, shaking her head with vehemence.
�Daniel, no! F-Frank is dealing with him! He�s calling the p-police--�
�I don�t care; he�s going to pay for what he did to Lucia!� Daniel shook her off and threw open the doors, climbing the steps two at a time. Melanie puffed behind him, uttering a startled �Oh!� when her long skirt got caught under her feet.
�D-Daniel! Wait!�
�Stay there Melanie,� Daniel said, stalking toward the hall entrance, bat clutched fiercely. �I�ll deal with him on my own!�
�D-Daniel--�
The rest of her words were cut off as he plowed into 206 and 207�s hallway, stopping short when heavy air struck him like a thick, wet blanket. Lights popped and buzzed overhead, making the shadows dance like flicking cat tails. He struggled to draw breath, leaning against the wall and then yelped as his hand slipped in something wet. He raised his coated fingers to the dim light, blanching as he realized it was blood. Where did it come from?
He stepped away from the wall, his mouth gaping open as his eyes followed swathes of crimson running the length until they disappeared into room 207. The door to that apartment clicked shut as soon as his eyes fell upon it.
Geez, how clich�
Flexing his fingers on the bat handle, he glanced behind him, expecting Melanie to venture through the double doors and hinder his stupid, yet, intrepid effort to regain Lucia�s honor. However, they remained shut--and nothing seen outside the small square windows. Where was she?
He also wondered where Frank was. The last time he saw the older man, he was walking into the two hundred hall. Perhaps he had already left and was calling the police now.
The lights died with a squeaky whine at the end of the hall, obscuring all beyond 207 in murky gloom. He hedged forward, eyes sweeping the walls and jaw tight. Was it his imagination, or was the paint peeling a bit more than before? Halting, he stared at one spot, and blinked as white flakes folded and sprinkled to the floor like jagged rice. He turned and noticed the walls behind him were in the same state of decay. His stomach felt queasy and his body tipped as his balance faltered for no reason. What was happening? Was Walter�s world invading this one? Would he come for him now?
His heart skipping a beat, then two. Daniel peered down the hall, expecting Walter to pounce any second. He saw nothing at first, but then something moved in the darkness; something that shifted weight from one foot to the other. He choked back a startled scream and retreated, surprised that Old Ben�s bat didn't snap in his hands.
He stopped and stared hard into that corner, trying to discern who hulked in the gloom. Walter would have attacked him by now; there was no way he could resist with Daniel only a few feet away.
Unless he�s playing again�he thought. Unless he wants me scared and on edge.
The form moved once more, and this time, large pale toes peeked in the dim light. He frowned however, as the more he looked, the less like �toes� they were. The shape seemed wrong. Another shift, fluid, as the head of the person emerged from the shadows. Daniel gasped aloud.
It was some sort of �baby��thing. It stood about his size, maybe larger, with not just one face--but with two infant heads squashed together under a black hood. Their complexion was pallid and eyes appeared swollen shut. Cupid bow lips pouted as both creatures craned their heads to get a better look at him. His eyes flickered to their �feet�, and realized that broad hands served as balance; long, tapered fingers curled against the carpet. The black cloak they wore drifted around them and its tattered edges fluttered as one hand lifted and pointed at Daniel. A whisper issued at the same moment, sexless and eerie.
�Child of Sin�� it said, the voice drifting toward him like wisps of smoke.
Daniel took another step backward, rethinking his dimwitted plan to confront Andre. Yet, as soon as the creature uttered that ominous phrase, it retreated into the darkness. Like a switch flipped; lights sputtered on afterward, revealing no trace of the thing, or how it had disappeared. The hall was a dead-end.
He let out the breath he held, the wheeze of air almost embarrassing. Licking his lips, he glanced at 207, unsure what he would find beyond that door. Would it be Andre or Walter? Did he really want to know? Perhaps he should go back and tell Frank what he saw.
The next moment decided for him as he heard someone scream inside the apartment; followed by a series of loud crashes--like furniture falling over. Without thinking, he rushed to the door, hesitating only a fraction of a second before turning the knob and swinging it wide.
Upon entering, Daniel had time to note the fresh blood splash upon the walls and floor; red dripping from the ceiling onto the furniture that littered the living room like broken toys. Then he ducked the next moment as something swooped over his head--splinters digging into his back when it collided with the wall. Stumbling, he swore and faced his attacker.
�Ugly� and �big� were the only two words he could think to describe the beast as he dodged yet another blow. It�s mallet-like arms pummeled the spot he had stood. Brownish black skin squeaked like wet rubber when it moved, some areas shiny and stretched tight. Easily over eight feet tall, it�s hulking form seemed lumped together, like clay molded by uncaring hands. As he scrambled behind a fallen couch, it trumpeted low; vibrations from the sound shaking the floor beneath Daniel�s feet. He watched through a hole in the stuffing as the creature heaved its bulk closer, massive limbs swaying in confusion. Two slits along side of its eyeless head quivered and snuffed--as if trying to �smell� where he was. Old Ben�s bat shook in his hands, his knuckles cracking from how tightly he held it. He stared at the meager length of the bat, and then back at the creature as it lumbered about--searching for him.
Great�maybe I can poke it to death.
He looked at the cracked wall in front of him, and the blood smear that decorated it, wondering where Andre was. There probably was no question that Lucia�s boy toy was dead; the blood on the walls validated that. But where was his body? And where did this creature come from? After his misadventure in 303, Daniel thought he could endure whatever crossed his path--but even he was surprised by this grotesque aberration. Did Walter create it? Did he flip into the Otherworld again?
Heart beating fast and hard, he inched toward, dragging the bat behind him. He figured due to the creature�s size and bulk, it would have trouble maneuvering fast enough to take a swing at him. All he had to do was stay out of reach of those tree trunk arms, and he would be fine�hopefully.
He paused at the edge of the couch, gearing for a mad dash toward the opened doorway. Then stuffing and wood sprayed everywhere as without warning, the couch exploded. Daniel rolled to safety at the last second. Spitting cotton out of his mouth, he staggered to his feet--only to pitch backwards as the pendulum arms swung overhead. He hit the wall; his eyes wide and bulging as he watched a strange �X� shaped pattern unfurl in the middle of the creature�s chest. Black gobs of fluid dribbled from the hole, and inner tissue pulsed wetly like the maw of a dark starfish. Without warning, ink jettisoned in the air, splattering the spot next to him and splashed onto his arm. Giving a disgusted yelp, he snatched his arm away, crying out in pain as the fluid clung to his skin like thick tar. Peeling his arm from the wall, he narrowly avoided squashing as one limb shot toward him like a piston, punching a jagged hole where his head used to be.
His arm now bled from several areas, but Daniel didn't feel the pain. He sidestepped another blow--losing his balance and fell hard on his ass. Rising the next instant, he stumbled down the hallway, ignoring the bathroom and ducking another projectile of black sludge. He reached the bedroom and darted to the windows, jerking the latches. They refused to budge; all were locked tight as the windows in his apartment.
The creature followed him into the room, its movements bovine and clumsy. Uttering a hungry bellow, fluid sprayed and coated everything within its path. Daniel avoided most, but some struck to his clothing and hair. Reaching down he snatched a few pillows and threw them, hoping the material would stick and hinder the goo attack. The fluffy missiles were deflected however, as the creature crisscrossed its arms and plunged them downward, creating a shield.
He stared around him, trying to find something else to throw or use. Seeing nothing, he gave it a panicked glare, clutching the bat to his chest and tensing. It had him cornered and he just ran out of options. He readied himself, twisting his stance to defensive�
Another bout of fluid; this time hitting his shoulder and pinned him to the wall. While Daniel struggled, it gave a triumphant squeal, lumbering forward with both arms and black fluid dripping. Fear spiraling out of control, he wrenched free with an agonized cry; flesh and clothing left behind as he staggered over the bed and bolted out the door.
Bloody and tiring, he nearly collapsed over a fallen coffee table when another arc of black sailed to the right. The creature pursued quicker than anticipated--or perhaps his reactions had slowed--either way, he was unsure he could keep dodging much longer. While the creature seemed slow and stupid, the sticky viscous made for a clever immobilizer.
So, when I�m stuck to the wall, it can take its sweet time and just pummel me to death�how nifty.
He dove behind an armchair as it knocked the coffee table at him, cursing and furious at how he got himself in this mess. The damn thing had to have a weakness; he had to just stop and think!
Panting, he snuck a glance at the demon, cringing as it sniffed the air again with its �nostrils.� It had no eyes, but it would find him soon enough; his blood probably something it sensed. The dome head twitched along with the hole in its chest, and it was so close now that Daniel could reach out and touch one of it�s malformed limbs.
He gripped Old Ben�s bat tight, surprised that he still held it in his hands. Blood from his torn shoulder dripped down his arm, cooling and stained his shirt. The creature�s skin seemed tough, armored--but not that hole in its chest. He remembered the inside; how fleshy and vulnerable it seemed. If he could just jam something in there without getting slimed�
His breath caught as he looked at the bat again, a reckless plan forming. If he were quick--he could shove the bat inside and injure it badly; perhaps badly enough keep the fluid from spewing all over him. Those massive arms could be avoided, since he assumed they were useless at close range. Yes�it was stupid and insane--but, it might actually work.
Without preparing himself or thinking twice, Daniel charged with a snarl, vaulting over the chair and toward the creature�s left side. As he suspected, it had trouble compensating for the sudden movement. It swung it arms in a sluggish arc and gave a growl. It was all the time he needed to jab Old Ben�s bat deep into the hole, twisting and plunging the aluminum ram in different directions. Blood spurted thick and smelling, and the creature howled; thrashing its arms. It lost its balance and tipped backwards. Daniel fell on top, still plunging his stunted �blade� into the core of its body. Black goo erupted, but slippery blood nullified the sticky effects as Daniel had hoped it would. He felt the flesh give way, each thrust deeper and bringing gouts of fresh blood along with it. It screamed and flailed; smashing the floor, smashing the furniture until it suddenly shuddered, limbs slumping and falling still.
Daniel withdrew the bat; strings of gristle and scarlet drenched the tip. Chest heaving, he stared at it, shocked that his plan had worked--amazed that he was still alive.
But, was it dead?
He circled the creature, appraising the bizarre appearance as well as watching for movement. It was like something out of a nightmare; something that Walter no doubt had a hand in creating. He came closer, heart pounding as he did what every horror movie clich� taught him not to do--he nudged it with his foot.
It became animate again, gurgling and the slits along its head spreading wide. Daniel jerked back with a wild yell, terror and instinct kicking in as he slammed the bat on its head. His swings became frenzied; blood splattering his clothing and face as he hit it again and again. With every strike, he saw Walter�s face--his smug smile, that sensual laugh. He choked back cries of fury as he continued beating the corpse, venting his rage on something that could bleed for once.
Finally he dropped the bat and staggered back, wiping his face with the back of his palm. He panted, eyeing the carnage with little remorse. The damn thing better be dead now.
Clapping erupted behind him, slow and purposeful. Daniel turned, startled, and then blanched as he saw Walter standing at the doorway, eyes sparkling and face twisted into a pleased grin. Daniel looked toward the bat on the floor, wondering how quickly he could retrieve it.
�Bravo Daniel, bravo!� Walter praised, dropping his hands and smiled at him with approval. �I haven�t been that entertained since�well--since I played with my Receiver for the first time.�
He came forward, his posture relaxed and pace unhurried. Daniel retreated another step, his eyes shifting from the bat to Walter, then to the bat again.
�You can pick it up if you like,� he said, nodding in its direction. �I�ll let you. Although, I must warn that your weapon is rather useless against me. Unlike this poor soul here, I�m imbued with Mother�s grace; her energy flows through my veins, protecting my flesh, filling me with light so that no one may harm me.� Walter�s jade eyes glittered as they roamed over Daniel. His posture shifted, turning predatory. He entered the room, shoulders hunching and head dropping forward.
Daniel swallowed when Walter looked at him like that, feeling suddenly dirty. It was as if those eyes could see right through him; see every weakness and dark part of his soul. Walter�s cold energy filled the room, ruffling his hair back, and made every thought of escape seem foolish.
As he approached, Walter�s foot bumped against the dead creature, and his attention diverted. He considered the demon with a thoughtful frown, eyes glazing in reverie. �I remember my first kill.� he said, his lips twitching with a crooked smile. �I was just as sloppy--inept with my skills. It took Jimmy so long to die�even with the bullet lodged in his head. Hmm, I supposed I must have missed the vital parts of his brain when I shot him; but it was so interesting to watch afterward-- how he twitched and moaned. He even cried when he wet himself. I�m sure it was quite humiliating for him� � Walter sighed, as if remembering a fond memory.
�And the surprise in his eyes!" he continued. "He had never anticipated he would be my first choice--but who else could serve as the �mage�? Who else but the holy priest of the Valtiel sect? For all their power, they were still so ignorant. They didn�t understand the teachings like I did. They thought they could use me--that I was wrapped around their little finger. Pride was their sin�Mother told me so; she said they had to be punished--that she was displeased with the way they worshipped her--displeased how they meddled in the affairs of the Yellow and Reds.�
Walter withdrew a jeweled dagger from his jacket, turning it over in the light. The blade itself curved wickedly; the hilt black and heavily encrusted with rubies. Daniel could see at least five from the side shone to him, and he suspected more on the other. Pressing his finger against the tip, Walter watched with serene interest as blood welled, his eyes lifting to stare at Daniel. �So I did as she asked; I obeyed without question. She promised me paradise--she promised me peace. She said I would never leave her side. Yes�I�ll always remember Jimmy Stone. He was my first step to salvation.�
Daniel stared at Walter, feeling sick as he told his story with such bliss-filled nostalgia. His shoulder complained with a mild throb, returning his thoughts to the problem at hand. He had to get out of here!
He glared, pasting a look of indignation on his face. �Well, that was a swell tale Mr. Sullivan, but I�m not anything like you. If I have to kill, I do it to survive--not for salvation or whatever sick reason you come up with. I�m not a murderer and I don�t allow some demon to dictate what I should or shouldn�t do!� Daniel reached and reclaimed the bat, holding it as if preparing to hit a home run. He moved to the left and Walter followed the movement, smiling.
�Nothing like me? Really,� his gaze slid to the mutated corpse, his tone placating. �Perhaps, little bird, you should take another look at your�victim.�
Daniel frowned and followed Walter�s gaze. He saw only mottled skin and distorted features as first, until like magic, all began to change. Before his stunned eyes, ugly brown limbs shrank and morphed; the dome head reshaped, bulk condensing into a more human appearance.
Human.
The bat clattered to the floor as Daniel balked in horror; the body that lay mutilated before him had familiar features--very familiar.
Details spun in front of his eyes, each more vivid than the last: white tank top, torn in several places and stained bright red with blood; bald head, recently shaved, crushed and swollen beyond recognition; all limbs bent at unnatural angles as the golden chains twinkled ruby and amber in the light. Daniel couldn't recognize him--not with his face pulverized and every distinguishing attribute warped from the beating he had received.
Andre.
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Blood Ties