The Wolf's Song

The Wolf's Song

Diana

The city of Bamberg cleaned up well. Though there was snow covering every inch of the ground and most of the buildings, the Spring Festival was in full effect. Music filled the streets, welcoming all to take part in its rich culture and enjoy with the natives.

People I had become accustomed to seeing throughout my coming and going greeted me. The glances that Michael got from a few of them were suspicious, and yet sweet in how protective they were of me already. He glared at a few, but I just squeezed his hand to reassure him that I didn’t care about what they thought of us together.

Since our talk, I felt closer to him, glad that he felt comfortable enough to confide in me and trust me during such a dark time in his life. The last two days by his side had been surreal; the events of the nightclub all but faded and were replaced by a revelation of clarity I had longed for. He still hadn’t told me the depths of his feelings, but as I needed to come to terms with my own, I would afford him the same. I was able to convince him to join today; after all, that counted for something.

We finished walking the row of vendors, leaving with gourmet popcorn that I couldn’t wait to open. Maya beckoned me over to a tent next to a closed-off partially seated stage. She had really outdone herself this time--ruby lips, green lashes, and a spring dress with striped leggings underneath. She looked more like a Christmas elf, but spring still screamed from the depths of her ensemble.

“I need a big favor, please,” she asked as we approached. “You can say no, I know it’s last minute, but I am desperate.” she continued without saying the favor.

“You could start by telling me the favor, and then I can answer if I can help or not,” I offered, though deep down inside I really wanted to spend today with Michael. This almost felt like a date, but when I asked him to come, I didn’t specify it as such.

“Right, this is why I stay in the library, I’m not cut out for this level of stress,” she bemoaned. “Every year they have a musical guest close out our talent show, but his flight has been canceled and he can’t make it. We have a ton of instructions for you to choose from. Anything you can do would be great,” she pleaded with me.

I could see the desperation and hated to see her looking so out of character, stress wasn’t good for anyone, but on Maya--she looked downright done in. I lifted my eyes toward Michael and peeped at him looking around, not even paying attention to our conversation.

This would be a good time to show him just what I could do. He had heard me play the piano, but I did miss the feel of a violin on my shoulder. He bared his soul to me; I would do the same.

“Of course, Maya. Anything for you,” I answered.

“Oh my god, thank you. Do you want to check out what we have? I promise it’ll only take a second. You won’t miss a minute of the show. It’s not to be missed,” she perked up.

I tugged on Michael, and he bowed to me.

“Go, I’ll find our seats,” he said, proving he was eavesdropping. I kissed him quickly, keeping in mind we weren’t alone, and followed after Maya.

She wasn’t lying when she said they had a ton of instructions. There were more tubas than any one person should own, a few accordions, and two cello cases, but none of those were what I was looking for.

I spotted the case, the one holding what I desired. I took it from Maya and pulled it. Though it appeared the typical basic violin, as one got during music class, the string on the bow was professional grade, which shocked me. I rested it on my shoulders and went through the cords making the necessary adjustments. Once finished, I played a little fiddle, checking that everything was in order. As I replaced it, I saw Maya gawking at me.

“What?” I asked.

“That was so good. How have you not blown up yet?” she asked, taking the case from me.

“I’m still in school; lots more training for me,” I chuckled. I knew I had a talent for music and secretly it was my pride and joy, but getting compliments still felt wrong. I was simply doing what I loved.

She told me she would introduce me when it was time and shooed me away. I returned the way we went and was surprised by how quickly the seats had filled up. I scanned the crowd looking for Michael when my eye caught silver hair.

My breath caught as Damien stared me down, confident with the knowledge that he had got under my skin. I hadn’t seen him since that night, obviously, but looking at him after knowing he blamed Michael for something that was out of his control, I could finally see past his showy display and see the broken man inside.

I didn’t nod, but he knew I had seen him and decided to dismiss him, keeping true to Michael’s wishes. I finally found Michael and he was glaring at Damien. I could see a mixture of rage and unfounded guilt in his gaze. I rushed to his side, hoping my presence would ease his mind. It worked for me.

“Sorry I took so long. It got crowded fast,” I said, drawing his attention. He planted a smile on his stern face and greeted me with a kiss on the cheek. Before I sat down, I spotted Martha and waved her over. She waved me off, sending me a kiss, and sat with a couple that frequented the house.

“What did you choose?” he asked.

“You sure you’re not the cat? You know cats are capable of detecting what room their owners are in by their voices. Perfect stalkers,” I teased, and he nudged me with his shoulder. “You’ll see.” I added, wanting to surprise him.

As the day began to dim, Maya approached the stand and announced that they would begin shortly. The first group set up as more people filled in and soon the room was packed, many standing and pulling up lawn chairs as the first group began. By the time Maya called me, I was moved by the extent of the talent here in Bamberg; I felt honored to close out the show after their display. I squeezed Michael’s hand a final time and made my way to the stage.

Maya handed me the violin and I declined the chair she offered. I caressed the violin as I got into position, my posture was straight but relaxed. I raised the violin to my shoulder, keeping it parallel with the floor, and rested my chin on the chin rest.

I blew out a breath and struck my first cord. The notes flooded my senses as I played a somber and thrilling tune. I rocked as the music elevated with vigor, my eyes shut as I got lost in the sound, muscle memory taking over. It had been so long; I was playing for myself just as much for them.

The crowd was quiet, and I peaked every so often to make sure I hadn’t lost them, but they were just as engrossed as me. I prepared for the epic A7 note the violin was famous for, setting the scene for my dramatic ending when just as I struck the note, sliding by bow down, drawing the note out, a scream joined in.

My eyes shot open as a man in the back was convulsing. His jerking didn’t mimic a seizure, more like his insides fighting to get out. I stopped playing and the man stiffened, going still, his head thrown back, one arm hanging limply by his side as if it were pulled from its socket. Slowly the man lowered his head and his red eyes found mine.

The sound that erupted from him was inhuman. He swung his broken arm, sending a man flying back as he advanced toward me. In my panic, I must imagine him growing, as with each step he towered over more and more people, chairs no longer obstacles as he shuffled through them with ease.

“Diana!” It was Michael. He headed for the man… no, creature, as I finally got my legs to work. I joined the rushing crowd, but while they were running away, I was trying to find Michael.

I got knocked to the ground, bodies rushing past me. I protected my head until it was clear enough to try to stand. I got to my feet but skidded to a stop as I came face to face with the creature.