FSE

Furry search engine

formerly SoFurry search engine

The morning alarm went off and a hand lethargically stretched from a pile of blankets. After a few violent, failed attempts, the hand finally hit the correct button.

"Ungff..."

Retsuko immerged from her fort of slumber, eyes half closed. A yawn exited her mouth and with it her jaw cracked. She looked around her bedroom. A complete mess. Clothes on the floor. Ramen cups on her night stand. A few beer cans laying around.

"I should clean up."

She sat in her bed a few more seconds. And after another yawn, she smacked her cheeks.

"Right!"

Filled with new found vigor, she got up and started her morning routine.

After a quick stretch, to loosen up her stiff joints, she went to her living room and turned on the TV to the morning news. She didn't really watch the news that often, but she couldn't really stand the silence in the morning. The news babbled about the traffic and the weather, as Retsuko loaded up her toaster and took off her pajamas. Quick shower. Quick toothbrushing. Quick makeup routine. Quick fur drying. Standard morning procedure.

She grabbed her toast, butter it up and started munching on it, as she took out her work clothes.

"Need to remember to put them through the wash tonight."

As she got dressed, something on the TV caught her attention.

"In other news, last night there was another violent murder. A young woman in her early twenties was found dead in the park. The police state that the murder must have taken place between ten PM and two AM. The murder itself is believed to have been done by the serial killer, dubbed by the media, the Heartbreaker, named so because he leaves a jar with the victim's heart and a bansai tree next to the body. This has been the third murder so far. The police urge people to stay vigilant and to always walk in pairs during the night and say that they are doing everything in their power to catch the criminal and make the city a better place. In further news..."

"A serial killer, huh..."

The thought of a serial killer running around town made Retsuko feel uneasy. She normally didn't pay attention to any mass scares. But this was somehow different. For a moment she stood still, trying to process the information. Finally she went to her kitchen drawer and pulled out an utility knife and stashed it in her purse.

"I guess, it always pays to be prepared..."

She took a deep breath, put on her shoes and went out.

#

The morning commute was the usual bouquet of events - pushed up against hordes of morning workers on the train, struggling to breathe and paying close attention to the stops. Amongst the heads, shoulders and elbows, something caught her eye. Another red panda, gazing through the window, as if not affected by the circumstances of his travel.

"I swear I've seen him before somewhere."

There was an air of mysticism to him. Like he was not exactly part of this world. Standing there, pushed up against a hippo and a lion, ogling the empty space.

"...he seems kind of cute though."

The train stopped. Retsuko managed to push her way through the masses and enter the torrent of commuters who shared her stop.

"Today is gonna be a good day."

With a confident walk, she stepped forward ready to accept whatever the work life had to offer.

#

-CALENDER! TEA! - the yell echoed through the busy office for the seventh time in the first half hour of the work day.

Retsuko ran across the floor to director Ton's desk with a hot mug of tea.

-Hear you are, Mr. Ton! - Retsuko blubbered out as she clumsily placed the mug on his desk.

The pig eyed her under a furrow brow.

"What does he want with me now?"

He slowly took a sip from the mug and let out a content grunt. Retsuko stood silently waiting for further commands or to be dismissed. Ton placed the mug back on his desk and pulled out a folder.

-You see this, Calender? - he slammed the folder in front of her. - I need you to check these numbers by the end of the day. Understand?

-But I-I...-Retsuko stuttered in an attempt to communicate

-But what? - Ton interrupted her, his gaze more piercing than before

-Alright, Mr. Ton...

-At a girl.

Retsuko took the folder and walked off

-And next time...-Ton spoke after taking another sip from his tea - ...add less honey.

She didn't answer. Retsuko sat back in her chair and smashed her face into the desk.

"Why does he keep doing this to me?"

The first half of the day went by like any other - number crunching, calculation checking, tea bringing, lots of yelling and running around. Retsuko didn't really imagine her life turning out this way. She had greater aspirations when she stepped into the working world, imaging herself climbing up the corporate ladder fairly quickly, her higher-ups always being kind and gracious people, a bit like father figures, and at some point being at the top, doing minimal work and receiving huge payments. Granted, this was still possible, but the way things were it was going to take too much time and effort to reach the highest echelons.

"Why do I work like I do? I really just want the money. Can't I just find some way of taking the work out of the equation? Maybe...I should think about changing jobs..."

#

-So guys, did you hear the news about the killer? - Haida asked, trying to break up the silence during lunch break

-Oh, yeah. - Fenneko responded, not taking her eyes off the phone. - All the social medias are exploding - fears, theories, questions. The works. We are basically witnessing history in the making here.

-I actually heard of it this morning. - Retsuko chimed in on the conversation - It got me a bit spooked.

-Just a bit? - Fenneko asked, still scrolling through logs and posts - According to the forensics, the victims died from blood loss during intercourse. This guy's a real freak show.

-You know, Retsuko... - Haida put on a sly smile and scratched his nose - I'd be more than happy to walk you home tonight if you don't feel safe on the streets.

-You? - Fenneko looked up from her phone

-S-sure! I've taken some self-defense classes. I'm sure I can handle one creep. Even if he's armed.

-What if there are more than one? - Fenneko teased

-Well...I...you see...

-It's okay, Haida - Retsuko unpacked her lunch. – I haven't taken classes before, but I have armed myself, just in case.

Haida took a defeated sigh

-Seems like you've thought of everything, haven't you? - he gently smiled.

-I wouldn't worry so much. - Fenneko turned back to her phone - What are the chances of you being the exact victim?

-Fifty/fifty, right? You either are or you aren't - Haida laughed.

-How are you in an accountant firm again? - Fenneko's voice cut Haida's laughter

-It was a joke! - Haida yelled out

-Oh, I know it was a joke. Doesn't make it any less stupid. - Fenneko answered, still screengazing

-It has some wit to it. It plays on the idea...

As the two discussed the merits of humor, Retsuko stared blankly through the window.

"Fifty/fifty chance..."

All of a sudden, she felt less hungry.

#

Calendar!; Tea!; Papers!; Tea!; Numbers!; Tea!; Tea!; Tea!; Calendar!;

The rest of the day was as hectic and tiresome as ever. Spread across numerous spreadsheets, Retsuko found glimpses of her future - overworked, overexhausted and underpayed. What was there to do really? She didn't have many marketable skills. She could always do manual labor. But she knew that would be even worse. Maybe she could work in a museum. There was some merit to that, but yet...she felt like she couldn't actually do what was required of her.

"What am I missing in my life?"

She stared blankly at her computer screen. There was an itch inside her. It was at the tip of her tongue, but she couldn't really spit it out. A shade in the corner of her eye. It was simple. It was effective.

"What am I looking for?"

She looked at her hands. The more she stared at them the less "real" they felt. A sense of detachment overtook her. This was her body. But at that exact moment she felt more like she was inhabiting it, rather than being part of it.

"Why do I work?"

The clacking on keyboards seemed to fade away in the distance. People were talking, but she couldn't hear them. Monitors buzzing, but she couldn't see them.

“Is there really something to all this?"

Retsuko snapped back into reality. A bit disorientated, she focused and continued on with her job. Just typing away. Names, numbers, formulas, links. Nothing out of the ordinary. Nothing special. Nothing worth it.

#

-Here is the report you wanted, Mr. Ton.

Ton huffed and took the papers, quickly scanning through them.

-Pff…you can leave.

-Yes, sir.

#

The changing room was no different than what was expected. Change of clothes. Gossip. Farewells.

Her ride home wasn't any different. People pushing. People shoving. People leaving. She took off on her stop and went straight home.

Dinner. Beer. Crappy TV shows. Bedtime.

She lied awake a bit more than usual. Just stared at the ceiling, wondering what was the matter. The days seemed to melt together. Liquefying and swirling. Just sounds and colors, with barely any distinction. The only reason she even knew what day it was is so she wouldn't go to work on Saturday. And she would spend her Saturday just cleaning and drinking. Was there any point to any of this? What was missing? What was the one thing that would make it all worth it?

“I should be going to sleep soon."

She turned around, facing the wall and curled up into a ball. The night was a tad colder than usual. If only there was something to keep her warm. Or someone.

“Am I just lonely?"

She thought about it for a moment. There really wasn't anybody in her life. Nothing to look forward to at the end of the day. Nobody to share any new experiences. No one to hold her tight. No one to make her laugh or cheer her up. No one to just spend time with.

“It's been so long since I had a boyfriend…"

She wrapped her arms around herself, clenching her shoulders.

“Would that truly make me happy? It won't hurt to find out…"

She closed her eyes and drifted into a dreamless slumber.

#

Retsuko violently slapped her alarm numerous times, each one missing the button. Finally the clock fell on the ground and continued buzzing.

“Uggh…"

Her mind barely able to form thoughts and driven by pure instinct, she fell from her bed trying to reach her alarm. Retsuko hit the button and laid on the ground for a few moments, admiring the ceiling once more. She stood up on the ground, her back aching and her nose stuffed. She got up and stumbled through her room, the world spinning around her and her body moving faster than her mind can properly comprehend.

Retsuko took a quick hot shower and dried off. With her breakfast this morning, she took some cold pills and vitamins to get her a bit more stabilized.

“I could call in sick…"

She perished the thought, knowing full well that Mr. Ton won't accept it, especially during the busy months. She took a few bites from her toast, chugged her vitamins and headed out.

#

The ride to work was even worse than usual. Now being hypersensitive, every stranger's touch carried twice the impact. She looked around through squinted eyes, trying to find the screen for the next stop. And she saw him again.

The same red panda as the previous day, eyes void of worry or concern, once again staring off into the distance. He had such delicate features – his chin was gentle, his nose elegant and his fur the color of autumn leaves. The morning was surprisingly sunny and staying by the window, he was bathed in the sunlight, giving him almost angelic qualities.

The train stopped. Retsuko snapped out of her deification and with an uneven step got out of the train. Again, the red panda went on to the next stop. Retsuko watched the train go as the people stepped around her.

“…I should probably try to talk to him next time"

A light smile formed on her face, thinking about the possibility. She lingered a bit more on that thought, not stepping away from her spot, her head drifting in the clouds. And then her head was struck with a sudden headache. Retsuko checked her phone to see the time. She was going to be late. With a quick step, she headed forward to her job, grabbing a box with pills from her purse and downing two, her headache immediately subsiding.

“This should get me through the day. And by lunch I should be fine."

#

-You alright, Retsuko? – Haida asked, concern on his face.

Retsuko was lying on the table, through muddied vision watching her cup of coffee.

-…yeah…why?- she answered with low and rough voice.

-You seem kinda…unwell…

Retsuko cocked her head up.

-I'm just…mmm…

-You're sick. – Fenneko declared, coming to the table with a mug of hot tea.

-Mm…just a little bit…I couldn't really get much sleep last night…

-Having boy troubles? – Fenneko asked, a mischievous grin spreading across her face to the sound of Haida choking on his lunch.

-I wish…-Retsuko sighed in defeat.

-Oh, a-are you looking? – Haida asked as casually as he could.

-I don't really know, to tell you the truth. To be frank, I wouldn't mind finding someone, but it has to be special.

-Special?

-Yeah. Someone that you just sort of…you know, click with. Someone who comes out of the blue and it's the one you've been waiting for all this time.

-Well…seems like you are looking for the one true prince Charming – Haida scratched the back of his head – Comes in and swoops you on a white horse to carry you off into the sunset. I actually used to do a bit of horse…

-Here. – Fenneko handed Retsuko a flier without missing a beat.

-Singles mixer?

-Mhm. Just might be the place for prince Charming, don't you think?

-I don't really want to go alone…

-I'll co…-Haida began and was interrupted by Fenneko

-I'll come with you. For moral support.

-That would be nice.

-It's going to be tomorrow, so get better by then.

-Oh, yeah. I have some medicine at home that I can…

-Here. – Fenneko slammed a bag on the table, while still looking at her phone. –Anything you might ever need. From a minor cold, to hyperthermia.

-Wow, Fenneko, you regularly bring this to work? – Haida examined the bag.

-Yup. You never know what might happen.

-I'm glad you do. You're a lifesaver. – Retsuko opened one of the many boxes and took a pill. – Oh, Haida, will you be coming to the mixer?

-I…umm…well…

-Yeah, Haida. – Fenneko looked up from her phone, a villainous tone to her voice –Won't you come with us? I'm sure you might find the love of your life there.

-I'm actually a bit busy tomorrow…-Haida said in defeat.

-Hm. That's a shame. – Fenneko returned to her phone.

-Yeah, whatever…- Haida took a bite from his meal.

-Who's gonna protect us from the Heartbreaker, hehe?

-Fenneko! You shouldn't joke about something like that! – Retsuko jumped. –It's…it's not right…

Fenneko twirled her phone between her fingers.

-I thought you were armed.

-I am. But still. I don't want to get in a knife fight with a serial killer.

-Pff… - Fenneko turned - Haida. What do you think?

-Better to get into a knife fight with a serial killer than be serially killed with fight in a knife. – He took a sip from his coffee.

Fenneko blinked.

-I'm sorry, did you just have a stroke?

-It was joke, Fenneko.

-You really are terrible with humor, aren't you?

-It's an absurdist non-sequitur. A surrealist take on the social standings. A pythonesque idiosyncrasy with certain topical…

-Stop talking like you know what you are saying – Fenneko shut him down.

-I do know what I am saying!

-No, no you don't.

The pair continued to argue, as the medicine's effect slowly started to kick in on Retsuko. She felt a bit less ill and more invigorated and with a gentle smile on her face observed her friends in their petty dispute.

#

-Retsuko! Over here!

Retsuko had just gotten off the train and squeezed through the droves of people to get to her colleague.

The work day had been the usual scuffle her office job could offer. In between meeting deadlines and fetching tea, Retsuko could find the only solace in her lunch time break, exchanging gossip, news and the occasional bad joke. She was still a little bit sick, not feeling one hundred percent, but she still managed to make the trip to her home and to down town. Thoroughly prepared, she had her sweater on and a jacket in her bag along with a box of cold medicine, just in case things got worse.

Retsuko and Fenneko walked through the streets. The neon light illuminated the skies as the bouquet of smells invaded Retsuko's nostrils, whether they be foods, drinks or perfumes of passersby, they all added something to the aroma in the air. The city was one living creatures, with its own needs and wants, with all the animals there to function as the blood of its veins.

-Retsuko! – Fenneko's voice boomed

-Whu? -

-I asked if you were alright. – Fenneko repeated her words, a tinge of concern on her face.

-Well, yeah. Why?

-I don't know. You seemed to…kinda zone out. You sure you aren't sick? If you aren't feeling great, you can catch the train back.

-No, I'm fine. – Retsuko smiled – I was just thinking something…

-What exactly?

Both of them strolled down the street.

-Have you ever thought that…I don't know, a city can be seen as a living creature?

-A living creature? – Fenneko scratched her head.

-Okay, it sounds pretty dumb, now that I say it out loud…

-A living creature… - Fenneko repeated herself. – Like in a metaphysical sense?

-I…I guess…maybe.

-Hm… - Fenneko let out a slight chuckle. – Well, I suppose. We have living things inside of us that keep us alive and they don't know that we exist. Maybe people are just the living fauna of a city. Unaware that the city exists. I didn't know you had a philosopher inside of you, Retsuko.

-Well…I don't know about that… - Retsuko giggled.

-If things get boring at the mixer, you should ask that question. At the very least, you'll turn a few heads.

-Yeah…I guess… - Retsuko trailed off. – Hey, where is the mixer exactly?

-Beats me. – Fenneko replied. – Some bar, somewhere. Tsunoda will get us there.

-Speaking of which, isn't that her?

Fenneko squinted her eyes. She saw the silhouette of a gazelle admiring a billboard. When the pair got closer, the gazelle started waving her arms around and ran towards them.

-I am so glad you two could come! – Tsunoda jittered back and forth. – These things can get awfully lonely if you are by your lonesome.

-Oh, I'm just happy to get out of the house a bit. – Retsuko replied.

-I'm here to back her up, if something goes astray – Fennko responded, unemotive as usual.

-In either case, I'm happy you are here. – Tsunoda turned around and motioned the women to follow her. – Who knows? You might meet your prince Charming here! It really is a shame that both of you are single.

-What's that supposed to mean, exactly? – Fenneko twitched.

-Oh? Nothing. All I'm saying is that somebody out there is missing out. – She turned her head slightly. – And you might just be missing out too, you know.

The trio traversed the urban landscape, turning corners and going through shortcuts, advertisement billboards and landmarks being their appointed navigators. With no real rush, the gang went on with a steady pace, making stops if needed. At long last, they reached their goal.

-“Palm wind"? – Retsuko murmured under her breath – Is this a themed bar?

-No. – Tsunoda responded. – But it's a darling little place. The food is nice, the alcohol is authentic and the prices are acceptable.

Tsunoda twitched.

-Well? – She turned to her colleagues. – Are we going in?

-I guess we should. – Fenneko spoke and pushed the door open.

The bar was a cozy place, not very large. Passing by the other customers, the group reached their reserved table and around it sat three other co-workers, albeit from different sectors of the firm and much less than what Retsuko had expected.

-You made it! – one of them, a cat, stood up and greeted them. – I am Manumaru. That there is Rinta. And the one zoning out is Resasuke.

Rinta, a giraffe, stood up and shook hands with the trio. Resasuke on the other hand just sat in his seat, looking through the window.

-I'm glad you came. I was begging to think it would be a sausage party. – Manumaru laughed.

-Oh, Manu, didn't I promise you that I'd show up? – Tsunoda motioned the girls to sit – Did you order us drinks?

-Sure did! They should be here any second! How's the day been?

Retsuko didn't follow the conversation. She stared at Resasuke, having the feeling that she had seen him before. He was a red panda, just like her, but quite lighter in color. He didn't seem to notice the happenings around him, like he was lost in his own little world. The conversations continued around them both, not really stopping. There was an air of mystery around the guy, something passively seductive, a compulsion to know what exactly he was thinking. She knew him. She was sure of it. But from where? He worked at the sales branch of the firm, but she had never seen him at the metro or the lobby.

“Is he the guy from the train?"

The realization was a shock to Retsuko. The one person she found herself staring at during her commutes worked in the same building as her and she never noticed. Now he was sitting in front of her. An aloof prince in an ivory tower, gazing off, untouched by the world around him. He stood completely immobile, even his breathing was unnoticeable.

“What is going through your head, aloof prince?"

-Space cadet! – Manumaru yelled out.

Resasuke snapped out of his trance, quickly turning towards Manumaru.

-Huh?

-I said that drinks are here. It's time for a toast.

-Oh. Right. Of course.

His manner of speech was sparse, but his tone was ever so delicate. A spring breeze in a field of violas.

-You shouldn't be so distracted, at least for tonight. There are ladies here, you know. – Manumaru lecture him.

-Yes. Of course. Sorry. – he answered and reached for his glass. – What are we drinking to?

-To love. Naturally. – Tsunoda said, giving Rinta a smile. – To love and all that she holds.

-Amen! – Fenneko proclaimed and hit her glass with the rest.

-Fenneko, you seem a bit not like yourself. – Retsuko turned towards her friend.

-I'm allowed to loosen up from time to time, aren't I? – Fenneko laughed and drank.

-Hehe…I guess you are. – Retsuko took a small sip from her drink and turned back towards Resasuke.

For a moment their eyes met. Retsuko quickly looked down pretending nothing happened, after which she took a few sneaking glances at him. To her surprise, he was still looking at her, though his face didn't show any emotion.

“Are you looking at me or just looking through me?"

#

-So, anything interesting happening with you guys? – Rinta asked as he took out a cigarette.

-I wouldn't say interesting… -Tsunoda answered, her eyes slowly going around the room. – I have started frequenting a nice bakery recently. I think I might start baking myself

-I'm now part of a... – Fenneko began. -…well they call themselves a vigilante group. But really we're just piling any and all information on the Heartbreaker.

-Is that legal? – Manumaru leaned forward.

-Sure it is. Information is shared and theories are proposed. Who might the killer be, where might he live, motives, etcetera.

-That's pretty interesting…what do you know by now?

-Well… - Fenneko took a long gulp from her glass. – He doesn't use a car. He's moderately fit. Most likely works a nine to five, if he works at all…

-How do you know all this? – Tsunoda interjected, unsure of the validity of Fenneko's statements.

-There weren't any tire tracks where the bodies were found. Although the victims were disemboweled, they still were fairly heavy and there weren't any bruise marks post-mortem, meaning that he did not take breathers here and there. The murders themselves took place around the weekends, meaning that the killer probably has a day job and would rather do this on his days off. Of course none of this is confirmed and should be taken with a pinch of salt.

The table was silent for a moment, nobody quite sure how to react to Fenneko's new hobby. There was something morbid about it, the idea of using tragedies as puzzles. Fenneko has always been a bit cold and detached from the social norms so in some way this wasn't surprising.

-Gee, Fennko – Retsuko turned to her friend. – Aren't you a bit worried? I mean, if you are going on such a site, isn't it possible to get racked down?

-Oh, sure, its possible – Fenneko downed the rest of her drink. – But we have a system in place. We report to each other every few hours. If someone fails to do so, we assume the worst.

-That's…kinda creepy… - Tsunoda murmured.

-Oh, yeah. It is. I'm a creepy person. – Fenneko chuckled. – But most of the times serial killers don't last long. After a couple of murders they usually stop, either getting killed or killing themselves. But it's not really about that. Just the idea that you could help out in a desperate time, somehow gives everything a certain perspective, you know what I mean? Retsuko, what was that thing you said earlier? About the city?

-Oh, umm...can the city be seen as one organism?

-Exactly! Can the city be seen as just one, big organism? Well, we can look at it as one. And each and every one of us plays some role in this great big thing called…the city!

-And what role does the Heartbreaker play? – Manumaru asked.

-Maybe he's a virus. – Fennko scratched her head.

-What if it's the other way around? – Resasuke spoke up to the surprise of everyone around.

-How do you figure? - Fenneko narrowed her eyes

-What if the city isn't meant to hold so many people. And its like…indigestion.

-The killer is indigestion? That's…an odd allegory. So you're basically saying that he's cleaning the city up, from anything that doesn't need to be there.

Resasuke nodded.

-Well… - Fenneko chuckled. -…not dwelling on the fact that you are trying to apologize for the brutal rapes and murders of three innocent girls, how do you imagine the whole thing? How is he cleaning the city up?

-I…ugh… - Resasuke struggled for words - …like a white blood cell…

-Mmm… - Fenneko smirked. – Even white blood cells can turn cancerous…

-Can we drop all this morbid talk? – Manumaru interjected, his voice booming through the restaurant. –Jesus Christ, Space cadet! You'll open your mouth to say something once and you spew out this? You should really work on your conversation skills.

-Yes. Sorry…

Resasuke assumed his usual quiet demeanor as tensions were slowly cooling down. Disregarding that little rough patch, the night was considered a success by all. It got people together to talk and have some fun. The trios said their goodbyes and all left in deferent directions. Tsunoda grabbed herself a cab and Fenneko and Retsuko were left alone.

-Well? – Fenneko smiled at Retsuko.

-Well? – Retsuko answered, unsure of what Fenneko wanted

-Well you didn't seem to take off your eyes from the Resasuke guy.

-Oh…

-Well you seemed to immediately look away when he looked at you.

-Umm…

-Well you were completely mesmerized when he opened his mouth to talk.

-I wasn't mesmerized! – Retsuko yelled out, flustered by Fenneko's comments.

-Whatever you say. – Fenneko giggled.

Both of them walked through down town. It was much less busy than it was a few hours ago, with the majority of people being out being in their late teens or early twenties, with all others now gone back home to recover for the work day ahead. The lights of the city were now much less energetic and offered a more subdued and intimate atmosphere, giving the impression that the night could last forever. A single moment that stretched to infinity with the concept of tomorrow being so foreign and unthinkable, yet inevitable.

-Hey, Fenneko?

-Hmm?

-What do you think of that guy? Resasuke.

Fennko took a moment to compose her words, scratching her chin in thought as they waited for the train.

-Well…-she began – He's definitely a strong, silent type.

Fenneko chuckled to the annoyed expression of Retsuko

-He isn't very socially aware – Fenneko continued. – And he's most likely a contrarian. But I think he might be a good match for you.

-Oh? – Retsuko blushed at the sound of those words. – How so?

Fenneko shrugged.

-He's laid back. Extremely so. I don't think that you need someone active who takes charge. More like someone who you can…I don't know…chill with.

-Huh…

-Yup. Say, isn't that your train right now?

The women said their goodbyes and Retsuko departed.

#

It was a long night, filled with laughter and alcohol. Retsuko stumbled into her apartment and immediately took her clothes off. After a quick shower and a crude towel drying she threw herself into her bed, her alarm ready to go off in five hours.

“Tomorrow's going to be a nightmare."

As she slowly drifted off to sleep, her phone buzzed. Annoyed and confused, she reached out and grabbed her phone, the blue light burning her eyes. She had received a message.

“Hey. I really had fun tonight. Would you like to hang out again some time?"

“Resasuke…"

Her heart skipped a beat. Without much thought, she answered him, confirming his request and they could set out a date tomorrow.

Retsuko place her phone by her night stand and drifted off to sleep.

“My aloof prince…"

#

Fenneko slurped her coffee.

-So. Things going well with that space cadet guy?

-Whatever do you mean, Fenneko? – Retsuko answered, her face beaming with sunshine as she pranced through the cafeteria, holding her lunch.

-Its just…you seem…- Fenneko struggled for words - …happier than usual.

-Happier you say? Well…I guess I might be, yes. – she smiled, so purely it could make an angel weep.

-So I take it things are going well?

-Yes. Yes they are.

-In any case – Fenneko leaned over the table -…do you want to tell me about the guy? You know, before Haida comes around.

-Why Haida?

-Well…-The question spun inside Fenneko's head over and over again. – You know him. He's a bit…over dramatic when it comes to…romance stories.

-Oh?

-Yeah…Pretty much.

-Hehe… - Retsuko giggled, warming the heart of a ruthless tyrant somewhere. – You see, after the mixer, he suggested that we should hang out.

-Alright.

-And we set up a date in around one week time.

-I'm following – Fenneko shook her head in understanding.

-In the mean time though, we would chat. A lot.

-A lot? – Fenneko raised her eyebrow in disbelief

-Yeah. – Retsuko slowly stirred her salad with a fork. –It kind of caught me off guard as well. I guess some people feel more at ease when talking through the screen, you know?

-Right. Right. So what happened next?

-Mmmm...As I said we talked a lot till the date came. Mostly everyday stuff. How's the day, how's work, how's lunch, that sort of thing.

-Sounds pretty boring if I have to be frank.

-You know. You would think that. But it wasn't.

-Oh? – Fenneko took another sip from her coffee. – Now you have my full attention.

-Well…It's just the way he expresses himself. He has a very odd…way of talking. Or writing, as the case may be.

-Riiiight…

-He's also quite considerate. He would ask me about my day, but with details as well. He has been…really listening to me.

-Sounds like someone is in love. –Fenneko chuckled.

-Well…I wouldn't say “in love". More like…"very much in like". – Retsuko scratched her neck, letting out a light laugh.

-Hehe…and how did the date go?

-Truthfully? – Retsuko raised her eyes. – Much better than I expected.

-Wow.

-He was a gentleman throughout. We talked about our hopes and dreams and interests.

-The standard stuff.

-Yeah…He is really into biology. He likes plants a lot. He said he would like to help discover a way to make the world a greener place once more.

-Wait. He actually talked? – Fenneko laughed.

-Mhm. He's into fauna, medicine, art and even…

-…and even?

-It sounds a bit silly. He's into the occult.

-Heh…-Fenneko stretched. – I guess everybody needs a hobby.

A moment of silence followed. Retsuko gazed absentmindedly into her lunch, a light smile forming on her face as she radiated with a sense of bliss.

-So did he put a spell on your or something? – Fenneko joked.

Retsuko slowly turned towards Fenneko, still smiling, her eyes a bit unfocused.

-I sure hope not. – she laughed.

Fenneko smiled. She hadn't seen her friend this happy in a long time. Was he really all that? He did manage to melt Retsuko into a lovey-dovey puddle. Or maybe Retsuko was just projecting some perfect image onto the guy.

Fenneko turned towards the window. The sky was as bright as ever, though a few heavy and dense clouds would pass by. She clicked her tongue. Something was amiss here. Retsuko meets some guy at a corporate mixer and falls head over heels in love. She has to be projecting. She had mentioned that she hasn't had a boyfriend in a long time.

Fenneko sighed. She hoped she was wrong. This was going to end badly. She turned back to Retsuko, who just simply looked lost in her world.

-Me and Haida will be going to the bar tonight. You want to come? – Fenneko waited for an answer and received none.

Retsuko sat there, stirring her lunch. Her head was slowly bobbing back and forth as she silently hummed to herself, as if unable to comprehend the world around her.

-Jesus Chri…-Fenneko leaned forward and snapped her fingers in front of Retsuko. –Wake up!

-Huh? – Retsuko was startled. –What happened?

-I was asking if you wanted to come to the bar with me and Haida tonight. – Fenneko repeated herself

-Oh…I don't know…I'll be going on a date tonight.

-Right. – Fenneko leaned back and crossed her arms. – You feeling alright, Retsuko?

She had spaced out again. Fennko grit her teeth.

-Yo! Retsuko!

-Whu? – again, she got startled.

-Are you alright?

-Oh…yeah…perfect…-she again turned to her salad.

-Oh, no. No, you don't.

Fenneko reached out and again snapped her fingers in front of Retsuko's face. She repeated the motion a few times, until Retsuko started blinking rapidly.

-What are you doing? – Retsuko rubbed her eyes.

-Concentrate. I don't think the Space cadet is having a good effect on you.

-What makes you say that? – Retsuko asked, a sharpness in her tone. –And don't call him that. He has a name…

-Mhm. I'm sure he does. Listen. You've been acting…a bit weird.

-Weird?

-Yes. Weird. – Fenneko exhaled. –I know you're in love, but…well…you can't just stare at your salad the entire day.

-I wasn't staring…

-You were staring. – Fennko cut her off.

-…only a little…-Retsuko blushed.

Fenneko rubbed the bridge of her nose.

-All I'm saying is that…you've been kind of obsessing with the guy.

-I'm not…- Retsuko trailed off -…I don't think I am…

-You are. Like a schoolgirl. – Fenneko snickered.

-Well…I…-Retsuko struggled for words, but Fenneko intervened.

-All I'm saying is to be careful, okay? This guy…he might be a great guy, but…you might be disappointed in time. It's been a while since you were in the scene, right? You might get a little over your head.

-Heh…alright…-Retsuko smiled.

-Also, will you come with us to the bar?

-Mmmm…I will. But after my date. I promise, it won't take us the entire night.

-I'm gonna hold you to that. – Fenneko smiled and took out her phone.

#

Fenneko drank her afternoon coffee to the sounds of Haida's moping, his face flattened against the window, looking out to the setting sun. Fenneko enjoyed this part of the day. Not much work was left, so she could take a break. She also liked the colors. The floor windows let in all the light of the cityscape, with the pinks and purples giving it a bittersweet feeling of urban melancholy.

There was something to this. Something that made you feel right at home. A cozy sensation. A warm embrace. Something that weaved together the memories of younglings running in the neighborhood till after dark and the memories of teenagers staying up late and drinking in the park. Now, as an adult, Fenneko felt something different and yet familiar. A taste of freedom with a dash of responsibility. Not an anarchic kid or a rebellious teen anymore, but an adult woman with things to do. Which she could just throw away at any time she wanted. No. That didn't feel quite right. But it was the best she could think of. In either case, it was magic.

-I love the dusk. – Fenneko sipped from her coffee. – I should find more synthwave artists.

She took another sip of her coffee and turned towards the mess of a man that was Haida.

-Yo. – She cried out. –You know any good synthwave guys?

Haida murmured something underneath his breath. Fenneko frowned. She knew what this was about, but she didn't want to engage.

-So…do you have some favorite artists or you're more of a mixed album kind of guy…

-Fenneko. – Haida spoke through a gurgle. – What is wrong with me?

-You can't follow a conversation. For starters.

-Ugh! – Haida bashed his head against the window. –This isn't fair!

Fenneko took a sip from her coffee, eyeing the hyena.

-It doesn't have to be exactly synthwave, you know. – she spoke, deliberately dodging the subject on her colleague's mind. – It can be dreamwave, chillwave…anything glow-fi.

-Fenneko – Haida spoke with a calm and collected tone of voice. – Why are you like this?

-Mmm? – Fennko grinned at Haida – That's an awful question to ask someone, you know?

-Please, spare me.

-You aren't asking “why are you doing this?" or “how come you always do something?".

-Ugh… - Haida groaned and slammed his head on the window again, this time with more force.

-You are basically asking “what has happened for you to turn out the way you are?". And in the context of not liking someone.

-Please. Just stop.

-Frankly – Fenneko flicked her head sideways – I am offended.

Haida turned around, exhaustion and apathy on his face. He sat down across Fenneko, who met him with a smirk.

-Why do you do this to me? – he asked with a sigh.

-I have no idea what you mean.

-Can you cut the crap? – Haida asked, this time with tension in his voice.

-Fine. – she took another sip from her coffee – What do you want to know?

-I don't know! – he spoke, frustration ringing through his being. – What does that guy have that I don't?

-Timing. – she scratched he chin. – Mostly timing.

-Timing? – he leaned back in his chair and crossed his hands.

-Yes.

-And what does that actually mean?

-Well… - Fenneko slowly stirred her mug. – Have you even asked Retsuko on a date?

-Not really… - Haida shrank in his seat.

-There you have it. He was quicker than you

-Hm.

-Disappointed?

Haida didn't answer. His gaze wondered around the room beneath his furrowed brow.

-Tell me, Haida. What did you expect? – Fenneko put down her mug.

-I don't know. Something more thorough? What is this guy even like?

-Mmmm…well on the only occasion I've talked to him, he seemed like a creep. But apparently, Retsuko claims that he is very considerate, interesting and fun to be around.

-Pff. –Haida leaned over the table. –Do you believe that?

-Does it matter?

Haida didn't answer.

-Tell you what. – Fenneko continued. – She'll be joining us tonight after her date. You can ask all about the Space cadet, if you so like.

-Come on, Fenneko… - Haida murmured. – I know you better than this. You're like a cyber stalker, right? Surely you've done some research on him. Right?

Fennko averted her eyes, catching Haida's interest.

-Right? – he repeated himself, trying to weasel out whatever he could.

-I…- Fenneko stuttered. – I can't really find anything on him.

Haida blinked rapidly, trying to snap out of the sudden shock. And then he started laughing.

-Don't tell me that you've finally met your match!

-Mmm…Its not like that!

-Oh really? – he placed his head on his hand, a dopey smile spreading across his face.

In frustration, Fenneko pulled out her phone and opened his facebook account.

-Look. He hasn't posted anything here in a few years. Either he's abandoned it or he only uses it to chat. I've checked everything, everywhere. Pulled all of my strings. There's nothing. He's a complete and utter shut-in. Some sort of hermit. Completely and utterly socially inept in every sphere he could exist.

Haida's smile slowly contorted into a toothy grin.

-So that's what you think of him, isn't it?

-I…the thing is…well… - Fenneko was at a loss for words. – Fine! Alright! I don't like him that much. Would you stop grinning?

-I can't help it! – Hiada laughed. – So, what are your speculations on the whole thing?

Fenneko took a small sip from her coffee.

-At this exact moment, the Space cadet is what Retsuko needs. She likes him enough, but I honestly, truly doubt it will work out in the long run.

-Please... – Haida nonchalantly waved his hand. – Elaborate.

Fenneko let out a defeated groan.

-He is…passive. She needs that now. A passive guy. But he's too passive. At one point it will be too much for her and they'll separate. From then on, she'll probably need a friendly shoulder. That's where you can finally come in.

-Hmm… - Haida took a moment. –Sounds like a solid plan.

-Indeed – she took a sip from her coffee and murmured - …you beta orbiter cucklord.

-What was that?

-Hm?

#

The night was chillier than Retsuko had expected. She stood at the foot of the office building, waiting for Resasuke, who mentioned earlier that he might be a bit late. Retsuko rubbed her hands together as the cold wind blew pass her. The air was unusually thick, as if a fog of smog had seeped into the landscape.

Haida and Fenneko had already left to get ready for the night out, both saying goodbye to Retsuko. She promised to see them later that night and drew up in her head a plan for her evening with Resasuke. They didn't have a concrete plan. There was some sort of jazz festival that Resasuke suggested they go to and Retsuko just accepted. She wasn't especially interested in jazz and didn't know much about it, but she was willing to learn. It actually made her smile. The thought of discovering new and fun things about Resasuke. The office weirdo. The Space cadet. Her aloof prince. He really did live in an ivory tower. And he was slowly letting her inside.

-Hey, Resasuke! – she yelled out when she saw him exit the building and looking around.

-You ready? – he asked with a monotonous voice.

She just smiled and grabbed him by the arm. He didn't seem to mind and they both walked off towards the train station.

#

-Two beers please and an order of fries, please.

The waiter scurried over to bring the couple their order.

-So… - Haida began. – …when did she say she'll be here?

-After the date. Retsuko mentioned they'll be going to some jazz thing. She'll probably be here in about three hours tops.

-Jazz festival, huh? Didn't take Retsuko for the jazzy type. Wasn't she like a hardcore metalhead or something?

-Oh – Fenneko laughed. – You jealous because she didn't come to your garage punk band's concert that one time?

-Ehm… - Haida waved her off.

-Did you guys even break even at that gig?

-We might have, if she had shown up.

-“Retsuko", “Retsuko", “Retsuko"- Fenneko repeated while making a silly face. – Its all you ever think about. What? Am I not enough for you?

Fenneko squinted as Haida started laughing.

-Is that what you want, Haida? A metal chick who will ignore you, take no interest in your creative endeavors and throw you aside like a filthy rag for the first guy who can barely form a coherent sentence?

-Now Fenneko – Haida took his pint of beer as it arrived. – You know that what we have is special. And no amount of uninterested metal chicks can take that away from us.

-Oh, Haida… - Fenneko fainted a blush and looked him with a pair of puppy dog eyes, continuing her rant with an accent of a southern belle – You silver tongued devil, you. You have such a way with words. Every time I think I'm finally done with you and your tricks, you manage to reel me back in. I'd say you are taking advantage of my delicate, womanly sensibilities, but it would be foolish of me to say that you are entirely to blame. My daddy warned me about men like you, but I didn't listen. Now look at me!

-Hehe… - Haida chuckled. – You should have gone into acting. Your talents are wasted on the world of finance.

-Hmm…And without me, who would you have consorted about your Retsuko based conundrums? – Fenneko flapped her eyelids

-You got me there! Cheers!

-Cheers.

#

A trio consisting of piano, bass and drums, the band on stage was playing an original piece. Effortlessly changing keys and harmonies, shifting between finely rehearsed segments and spontaneous improvisations, constantly morphing between the radicals of muzak accessibility and free form improvisations, the three had managed to completely captivate the entire audience. Well, except for one.

To Retsuko the music was just background noise at this point, being more enamored by her date than by any virtuoso-esque technicality. She admired Resasuke or more specifically, she admired the fact that for the first time she could understand why he was zoning out. She too knew the allure of music and how it can entrap the soul, given the right circumstance. It felt like an entire century passed. And out of nowhere, Resasuke turned towards her. He looked her in the eyes and simply smiled.

Her heart throbbed.

“This is important to you, isn't it, prince?"

She smiled back at him.

“You are leading me up your tower and giving me glimpses at how you truly perceive the world."

Both of them turned towards the band. Retsuko took a step closer next to him and grabbed him by the hand. He squeezed back.

#

-Waiter! Another round!

Haida munched on the second batch of French fries as Fenneko scrolled through her phone.

-You know what they call a royal with cheese in America? – Fenneko asked, playfully raising her eyebrows at Haida.

-They don't call it a royal with cheese? – Haida answered, containing his laughter.

-They ain't got the monarchy system there. They don't even know what royal even is.

-I'm pretty sure the quote didn't go like that. – Haida drank his beer.

-Don't be a killjoy. It's called improv.

-I'm also pretty sure this isn't even imrpov!

-Bite me. – Fenneko chuckled and went back to her phone. –Hey! Your crush is posting pictures.

-Let me see.

Fenneko handed the phone over to Haida.

-Looks like she's having fun, isn't she? – Fenneko teased him as he scrolled through the pictures from the festival. – Don't worry, big guy. You still have me.

-Lucky, lucky.

#

A cold wind blew through the park trees. Retsuko huddled up against Resasuke, who absentmindedly put his hand around her. Retsuko appreciated the gesture. He was opening up more and more. She felt that they were slowly but truly forming a connection.

-Did you like the concert? – Resasuke asked, not looking at Retsuko.

-Mhm…it was nice.

-You know…I really like jazz. It can be very relaxing and it can be very chaotic. But…its always controlled. There are always people who are making it and they choose how it can sound. Controlling the chaos. Do you understand?

-Yeah…I do. I feel the same way.

Retsuko didn't really understand what he was trying to say, but she got the basic gist of it.

-It feels good to know that its not just random chaos, but rather something preplanned. – she said trying to continue the conversation.

-Yes. Exactly. – Resasuke looked up at the sky, still unblinking and observing the distant stars- I've always felt that everything is…too random at times. Things just…happen. Bad things mostly. The bad things happen at random. We always plan for the good. But the bad things happen as a result of chaos, right? But also…if we have some sort of controlled chaos. Something bad…that just happens with a purpose for good…it could possibly make the world a better place. Do you understand me?

-I…I think so…- Retsuko scratched her head, trying to rethink his entire statement. – Something bad should happen from time to time, so something good can come out of it. Like during a forest fire. The firemen would burn down a part of the forest, to which the fire is spreading, so when it gets there, it will die out.

-Yes. Yes! Exactly!

“Are you excited, my prince? Are you letting your guard down in front of me? Are we reaching the top of your tower?"

-You know, Retsuko… - Resasuke continued, again with his monotone voice. – I'm…I'm not stupid. I know people think of me as awkward and hard to talk to. And…and it isn't easy for me to…to express myself, or what I think. But…but you understand me. You even agree with me…which is…which is amazing. I am…I am truly having a wonderful night.

“Only a few steps more, my prince. I can almost see the door to your room."

#

-Looks like they are having ice cream in the park. – Fennko scrolled through her feed. – They probably won't take long.

Haida downed his pint and slammed it on the table.

-Waiter! Another one!

-You're drinking quickly tonight. – Fenneko lifted her eyes from her phone. – Nerves getting to you?

-No. – Haida frowned, his face a shade of red – I'm just…celebrating.

-Celebrating?

-Of course! Celebrating a night out with a dear friend!

-Oh, Haida! – she faked a blush again - Once more with your bewitching words!

-Quit it… - he chuckled.

-Is my heart such an amusing toy to you? Once you've chewed it enough, will you throw it away like you did with all the other maidens you ensnared?

Haida just chuckled and drank his beer. He enjoyed Fenneko's drunk acting a bit too much to say something on the matter.

-Why…if I didn't know better…I would say that you are that Heartbreaker rogue, the entire town has been talking about.

-Hehehe…

-But could it really be? Could you be him? Will you rip out my heart after you defile me? And then what? Will you go after poor, innocent Retsuko? Do you think she will be impressed with your death gallery of blood and bone? Will she not try to run? Or is she like you? Is she the one pulling your strings, a shadow puppeteer? And you! A puppet of love and madness, at the whims of a psychopath, promised his master's flesh and comfort. How deplorable. But yet, there is a strange, grotesque romance to it, is there not?

-Fenneko… - Haida circled the top of his pint with one finger – What would I ever do without?

-I unno…probably live a more fulfilling life?

-Cheers to that!

-Cheers.

#

-You know, Resasuke, I had a great time tonight…but I'm afraid I should be leaving.

-I understand. You told me earlier.

-We can do it again soon, if you'd like.

-I would like, yes.

A light breeze blew pass the couple. They stood in the park, under the full moon's light, hidden from the rest of the world in one fairy tale moment to fill a thousand books. Holding hands, they each gazed into each other's eyes, but this time Resasuke's eyes weren't empty. They were full. And Retsuko could see that.

“Are we there, my prince? Will you open the iron door to your chambers for me?"

They both leaned in. Time froze. The noise of the wind and cars and people blurred into an indistinguishable mess of sounds and static. A kiss, cold from the weather. They pulled back.

“Thank you for having me, my prince."

-I should go…-Retsuko said, her hands slowly coming to her sides.

-I know. I…I really had fun tonight…

She saw his smile again. A genuine and pure smile of someone truly happy and present.

Retsuko turned around and walked down the path, pulling out her cell phone. She dialed up Fenneko. And then everything turned black.

#

-Hey, Retsuko, whats up? – Fenneko answered her phone. – Hello?

-What's wrong? – Haida asked after taking another swing from his beer.

-Its Retsuko. She probably butt-dialed me.

Haida's mood soured a bit and he quickly gulped down the rest of his pint.

-Waiter! – he called out. – Another one.

Fennko locked her phone and grabbed her own pint.

-No need to be so glum. – she said. – I'm sure that in no time, you will be the one who butt-dials her.

-I…wait…what does that even mean?

-What do you want it to mean? – a devilish grin spread across Fenneko's face.

Haida shrugged.

-I'd drink to that. Cheers!

-Cheers!

#

Retsuko slowly opened her eyes to the sharp pain of the constantly changing city lights. She tried to move, but her body felt heavy and numb. Through her dimmed vision, she saw the silhouette of Resasuke next to her, driving a car.

-Re..sas…

-Shhh… - he padded her on the head. – Go back to sleep, Retsuko. Everything is alright. You had a bit of an accident. I'm taking you to safe place now.

-Res…

And everything went dark once again.

#

-Do you think that…umm… - Haida tripped on his words. – Do you think that…like…we've basically reached our peak in life?

-Huh…? - Fenneko had some trouble focusing on Haida.

-It's like…we work in an office. And and we…like…what else is there left?

Fenneko slid her hand across her face in a vain attempt to regain her senses.

-I unno… - she slurred. – I mean…we work in an office…yeah…and when I was young…I didn't want to…work in an office…I wanted to travel the world…with a gang of biker chicks…

-Kind of like…Hell's angels… - Hiada leaned back in his chair and stared at the ceiling. – Yeah…I can see you…leather jacket and tattoos and crap…I wanted to be a rock star…still do…but I think I'm too old for that…

-Pff…that's stupid. Wasn't there a guy that became a rock star in his…like 70's…besides…at the very least you can make songs about how white collar jobs suck…

A moment of silence and both of them burst out laughing. Fennko struggled to grab her pint as Haida was already finishing up his.

-You know what? – Fenneko yelled out, slamming her hands on the table. – We should quit work next week! We can start a band and travel the world on motorcycles, playing music!

-Yes! – Haida yelled out as he finished his beer in one go. – Lets get coffee tomorrow and talk it over!

-Are we…are doing this?

-Hell! I'm gonna do it if you are gonna do it!

-Yessss!!! – Fenneko hissed – We are so gonna do it! Retsuko can be your first groupie!

Fenneko burst out laughing. Haida on the other hand scratched his chin in a sudden wave of deep contemplation.

-Say…-Haida began. – What happened to Retsuko? Shouldn't her date…be over by now?

-Hehehe…afraid that she might be taking the next step so soon?

-It's not that…it's just…

-The pure, innocent office worker you fell in love with turned out to be some sex demon…yeah…life sucks like that sometimes…

-It's not like that…I'm just worried.

Fenneko took a long sigh and pulled out her phone. She rang Retsuko up.

-Hello? – an unfamiliar voice answered. – I just found this phone. I'm willing to return it.

-…shit…

#

Retsuko once again tried opening her eyes. They stung from the fluorescent lights in this new environment. It smelled of mold and rot.

-You should sleep, Retsuko. We still have time.

A cold numbness overtook her and again she closed her eyes to the black void.

#

-No need to thank me, I'm glad I could help.

Fenneko and Haida were left alone in the park. As Haida paced back and forth, Fenneko searched every single website she could.

-She could have just dropped it, right? – Haida's voice trembled.

-It isn't like her. She wouldn't…just drop it.

-We…we had a bit too much to drink. We are being paranoid, right?

-I…I hope it's just that. I'm posting in the Heartbreaker forum, just in case. They might have some ideas…I just…I don't want to think about it…

#

Mold. Rot. Cold. Bright, burning light. Retsuko's first sensations as she awoke once more, this time only feeling tired, instead of numb and trampled. She opened her eyes. Still unable to properly focus, she tried to speak, but her voice was still a mere wisp. She tried to move, but couldn't. Her wrists hurt. Chains chimed as she struggled, her muscles still sore.

-Take it easy, Retsuko. – A familiar voice spoke through the haze of colors.

She felt something on her lips. Glass. And then cold water. She gulped down all she could and started violently coughing.

-Easy…- Resasuke repeated himself. – You'll be alright soon. I promise, everything will be better.

-Resas… - she began, her vision increasing. – Where…where are we…

Resasuke stood in front of her, undoing his tie and unbuttoning his sleeves. His demeanor was calm as always, but when he turned to Retsuko, she saw something different in him. His eyes. They weren't as empty as they used to be.

“Is this…this is his tower…"

Retsuko again struggled to move, now figuring out that she had been chained up. She looked around – she was chained up to a wooden bed, positioned at an angle in the middle of a dirty-grey room.

-Resasuke! What is this! We…I…

“I didn't agree to this. I didn't agree to be strapped to a BDSM bed…"

-Be calm, my precious, little flower. – he stepped closer to her as she struggled back and forth, hyperventilating. – Soon…you will help me make this city a better place.

-W-wha?

He caressed her cheek with the back side of his hand, to which she snapped her head to the other side.

-Everything will be fine. I promise. Your purity of heart has touched me, like so few other have.

-Please…Resasuke…I…

Resasuke slid his hand through her hair and gently grabed it. Retsuko violently turned her head from one side to the other, tears forming in her eyes. He tightened his grip on her hair and planted a deep and long kiss on her mouth. Resasuke pulled himself away. Retsuko, wide eyed and crying, panted heavily as she tried to form words. Resasuke smiled and turned away from her as he took off his jacket and started undoing his shirt.

-Retsuko…I…believe this world is a rotten place. Death. War. Famine. You know how it is…you are smart. I also believe…it can be changed. But it isn't easy.

He took off his shirt, revealing his naked body, covered in scars.

-For good…to grow in the world…it…it has to be planted. It's not an easy thing to do…and…it's not enjoyable. But it has to be done. I…I've taken it upon myself….to…to do this job. For goodness to grow in people…it has to be…materialized…in the physical world…and to be materialized…it has to be…extracted…

Retsuko was still in shock, unable to speak, only watch in horror as her former love slowly stripped in front of her.

-Good people…have goodness...in them. Blood…is the essence of a person. Their goodness flows through their blood. The heart…is the center of a person. And sex…sex is one of the ultimate…forms of channeling energy. Trees are…the antennas of the planet…sending signals. If you…encode…a tree with a message…that message will be sent…

-P-please…please don't do this…-Retsuko's voice cracked as she pleaded with her captor. – I…I loved you…

-I know…and I…I love you too…- Resasuke took a deep breath. – I am a…I am not a…good communicator. I don't understand people…and they rarely…understand me…but you…you understood me…I…I knew you understood me… the moment we met…I do truly love you…you are…a good person. That's why it pains me…that I have to do this…but I must…but you will live on forever…through the trees…through the hearts of the people…and through mine.

Retsuko started struggling again, her chains furiously bashing against the bed. She screamed out in fear and pain as the cuffs on her hands and feet started rending her skin, blood sliding down her arms, soaking into her clothes.

-I will…plant a tree…watered with your blood…and your heart as…as its pot…

-Please don't do this! I'm begging you!

-I…I am sorry…it must be done…you are…you complete me…but I have to…

-This…this isn't you! – she yelled out, her voice horse.- This isn't the Resasuke I feel in love with! You were my aloof prince! The clumsy Space cadet! You are Resasuke! Not this…this monster!

-Names are…are a tricky thing. A name…gives you a role. You can't have a role without a name. The name usually comes…after the role is established…that's…that's how it works…at work I am the Space cadet…because…I was zoning out…you called me…aloof prince…I like that. I really do…but now…now I have to take on another role…once more.

Resasuke stepped closer sliding his hand underneath Retsuko's shirt, his cold skin sending shivers up and down Retsuko's tiny body. She screamed, trying to pull herself away from him to no avail.

-The name…the name for this role...they gave it to me, you know. I didn't choose it. This role is…the Heartbreaker.

Retsuko screamed once more and his kissed her once again.

#

-Haida! We should get a cab! – Fenneko yelled behind the running hyena.

-A cab will take thirty minutes to get here! And ten to get to the docks! If we run fast enough, we can get there in twenty!

-But…shouldn't we call the police?

-Call whoever you want! But if you lag behind, I won't be waiting up for you!

#

The room smelled of mold and rot, and sex and blood. The walls reverberating with screams of pain, cries for help, forceful grunts, dull slams of slaps against wood and rattling chains - a cacophony of misery and demented salvation.

-Please! Stop this! – Retsuko cried out, her voice almost unrecognizable, almost destroyed from her continuous screaming.

Resasuke didn't reply. In a state of trance, he slammed himself once more against Retsuko's naked body, pushing himself as deep as he could. Once again she struggled to break free. Once again she failed.

-I loved you! Please stop this!

Resasuke did not respond. He grabbed her hair and violently pulled her head to one side. He liked his rips and bit down on her revealed neck. She screamed and tried to pull herself away from him, but the pain was too much.

The taste of blood was intoxicating. He pumped her faster, harder, the taste of iron still fresh in his mouth. Retsuko grit her teeth. Her eyes tightly shut, trying to block out the entire experience.

-You…Retsuko…-Resasuke spoke in between grunts. -…are an angel. So few of you on this world. In my entire life…you are…the fourth one I've met.

His movement were becoming even more violent, slamming himself inside her with more and more force.

-I will…I will give you your wings…to match your halo…

He turned her head towards him and once again planted a deep kiss. The mixture of blood, spit and tears made her gag. Her stomach turned. His momentum increased more and more, picking up speed. He bit her lip spilling blood down her cheek. He came.

Retsuko's body contorted as her rapist climax inside of her and with one final scream, she tore apart her vocal folds, now producing only low, distorted, unintelligible gurgles. Resasuke pulled himself out of her and cum dripped onto the floor. He slid his hand across her genitalia and then across the open wound on her neck.

Retsuko's body fell limp, supported only by her chains. Her vision a mess, her sense of touch numb and her ears ringing with a high pitched noise, she was barely able to think. Or what could pass as thinking. Her mind was scattered and her brain was pumped with adrenaline, unable to act upon her fight or flight response, she was frozen. Time stood still in an empty void with no real beginning or end.

“I'm scared."

“I'm hurt."

“I want to go home."

“This is a nightmare."

“I will wake up to my alarm clock."

“I had too much to drink with Haida and Fenneko and I will be hung over."

“I will drink an aspirin and go to karaoke with Gori and Washimi in the evening."

She felt pressure on her chest. She opened her bloodshot eyes. Resasuke's lips were moving, whispering something. She looked down. He was painting something with his cum and her blood. Retsuko whimpered.

-It's alright, my sweet, precious Retsuko. We are almost done here.

Retsuko's eyes grew wide as Resasuke pulled out a dagger.

-You will soon flow through the world in a wave of divine purity.

He placed the tip of the dagger on her body, about where her womb would be. She reflexively sucked her stomach, but he slowly pushed the weapon. A gurgling noise escaped Retsuko's throat as the dagger slowly pierced her skin, ripping her womb, a torrent of blood spilling out as he took out the weapon. Resasuke smeared his hand in the blood and dragged it across his face and cock.

He positioned himself once again and entered his victim, penetrating her bloodied, ripped flesh. She couldn't scream. Not anymore. The pain quickly subsided as now she only felt nothing else but pressure.

“Am I dying?"

“This isn't a nightmare…"

Resasuke slammed himself harder and harder and with each thrust more blood spewed out of her open wound.

As time dragged on, Retsuko became more and more limp, her colours growing pale, while Resasuke's speed increased and his grunts become louder and louder.

She was cold. Her mouth was dry. Her vision was blurry. She couldn't even feel if Resasuke was still inside her or not. Maybe he was. Maybe he had already finished.

“Is it over?"

Resasuke pulled out the dagger once again. While increasing his momentum, he lifted the knife with one hand, while supporting Retsuko's neck with the other.

-Retsuko. In the climax of your existence, draped in these sanguine robes, I release you from your moral coil. Your vigor and purity will spread through the world in a wave of light. Your compassion will warm the hearts of millions to come. You will be one of the many bricks I use to raise my Babel tower as everyone on this world will be closer to God. I release you from your mortal coil and let your soul spread its wings.

As he climaxed inside her once again, he slit her throat. Barely any blood dripped from her new wound. Resasuke looked into Retsuko's dimming eyes.

-You are free.

He gave her a gentle kiss on the forehead.

#

-None of the storage units are open. – Haida puffed as he tried to catch his breath.

Fenneko sat on the ground and looked up at the sky, taking deep and steady breathes.

-Maybe…maybe she just lost her phone…and…and went home? – Haida said, his voice shaking, trying to convince himself more than anything else.

-Yeah…yeah…you're probably right. She'll…she'll probably write us tomorrow. Nothing to worry about.

-Yeah…I…yeah…

Haida fell to the ground, exhausted and stressed. He watched the night sky, trying to collect his thoughts.

A cold breeze blew through the dock with the scent of the sea. The waves bashed against the stones in a furious display of nature's wrath and beauty. The world fell in complete darkness as Haida closed his eyes for just a moment.

-Haida. – Fenneko spoke, a bit unsure. – Do you…do you want to sleep at my place tonight?

-Huh… - Haida opened his eyes and stood up.

He turned towards Fenneko, who too was lying on the ground, unblinking.

-Why?

-I just… - Fenneko struggled for words. – I just don't want to be alone tonight…

Haida crawled next to her. She stood up as well and threw herself into his arms.

-Alright. – he whispered in her ear

She squeezed him tight and buried her face in her chest.

A muffled sobbing pierced the sound of the vicious waves and was drowned out by the bashing sea.

#

It was the wee hours of the morning. Resasuke sat on a park bench, gazing absent mindedly into the distance. He turned towards a trash bag and let out a sad smile. He stood up and opened the bag, dumping Retsuko's body on the ground. From his coat's inner pocket he pulled out a jar. Inside – a bansai tree and a heart. He gently place the jar next to her body and gave Retsuko one final kiss.

-A bloody theater of sex and death. Truly a heavy price to pay for a fulfilling climax to a sad story. The city is alive and is sick. You are its white blood cell, Retsuko.

Resasuke stood up and disappeared into the shadows. The city was chaos. The city was crying.