Apocalypse: The Huntress Luna

Chapter 9

There hanging off Damon's back was………

"Calliope??"

They were both a drunken mess and playing 'giddy up' in front of the bar. They both looked up from their spinning and 'rode on over' to us, giggling like school girls.

"Calliope what are you doing?? Ronnie is gonna have your ass for that", she winced while looking at the mess behind them.

 "Baaaaabe, I found meh a beashtie, isn't he cuuute?" and she slid off his back to wrap her arms around Andy's neck drunkenly.

I looked over at Damon and he had a stupid grin on his face. That is until he caught my eye.

I just shook my head, smiling and he relaxed a bit. I guess we all deserved a little fun every now and then and we helped them both to sit at our booth.

Andy and I left them there and went to help the barman clean up their mess. He kept trying to wave us away but Andy wouldn't have it.

"I'll just give her extra Work Orders this month Andy, it'll be fine."

"Ronnie, do you know how many she has racked up already?? No no, I'll cover this one," and she emptied the glass into the bin.

"Work Orders?"

"Here at Tectum, there is no physical currency. Basically if you want something like food, supplies or beer at the pub, you pay by being given a Work Order. They will be on that duty for the month and whatever supplies or medical care they need, are given as long as they do their part in our society.

Those who work for the major sectors like the Militia, farming or medical don't need to 'pay' via Work Orders because our job keeps the community running.

If that makes sense" she explained.

She glanced up at the clock and whistled. ``8:30 already? I guess that's home time for me. I'll catch you later Ronnie and come by sometime next week for me to check on Sylvie, okay?"

He thanked us and quickly waved us on, smiling.

She picked up her friend bridal-style who was now passed out on the seat and my eyes widened in surprise. Calliope ‘passed out’ did not look light.

I guess she was the Huntress for a reason.

"This  was nice, thank you for saving my night, Magnus", she smiled.

"Here. Let me take her from you. I can carry her if you lead the way?" I offered with my arms out and waiting.

"That's okay, her place isn't far. And besides, she will owe me dinner after this", she chuckled.

I shook Damon awake and pulled him up onto his feet. No way in hell I was carrying this asshole.

"Let us walk you ladies home. Please, we insist", I said when she tried to refuse. Luckily the rain had stopped and we all stepped out.

Calliope’s house was almost opposite the pub, which wasn't surprising, so Andy quickly carried her in and settled her into bed.

Damon was somewhat sober by now so I kicked him to the curb, saying I'll meet him at the barracks. He got the hint and sauntered off.

"You don't have to Magnus, really. The house is just up that path."

I leaned in so she could see my eyes and how adamant I was. "Andy, let me do this. I owe you for tonight. "

"C'mon then" and she rolled her eyes, smiling.

We began walking, taking our time and a thought popped into my head.

"How did you do that back there, by the way?"

She tilted her head, in question.

"How did you carry your friend like it was nothing?"

"Oh...that" she frowned.

"Calli and I were in the Militia together a while back and we decided we wanted to keep up the training.

I try to train and spar at least 4 times a week. 5 times if I can. So I guess I’m still packing the muscle," she shrugged.

I was impressed to say the least. No wonder she looked strong and not like she would bend under a stiff wind. But I noticed she didn't mention her nickname, The Huntress.

My guess was she didn't like talking about it so I left it.

"Wow, I wasn't expecting that. Well, let me know if you ever want a sparring partner….and I'll make sure to go easy on you" I teased. Well kind of…. I didn't want to break her or anything because of Amicus.

"Cocky, I see...but I'm sure I can put you out on your ass, no problem" she threw back, with a playful nudge.

She turned into a cosy looking cottage and we walked up to the green door.

"Well we will have to see about that" I grinned and stepped forward into her space.

She looked up and into my eyes and I wondered if she could feel Amicus calling out to her. He was whining and scratching at the surface, trying to get out.

With the way she was looking at me, I wanted to take her in my arms and plant soft, sweet kisses all over her.

But we were interrupted by the front door opening suddenly and Andy almost jumped out of her skin.

An aged woman stood before us, assessing the scene in front of her.

Andy turned to her, trying to hide her embarrassment but I could see the flush growing up her slender neck.

Oh how I wanted to pull her back and bury my face right in that spot…

"Andy who is this?" Her accent was a bit harsh but I could see the amusement in her eyes.

"Uhh Marianne this is Magnus, Magnus meet Marianne", she said shyly.

I reached forward and shook her hand. "Lovely to meet you, Marianne" and I flashed her a winning smile.

Marianne just raised an eyebrow and chuckled. Seemed like she was immune to my dashing looks, I shrugged, mildly surprised.

"Nice to meet you too. Would you like to come in for some tea?"

"I will have to pass tonight but I would love to another time", I nodded.

"Alright, that would be lovely" and she smiled and walked away after catching Andy's eyes. She watched Marianne for a bit and I could see her head and shoulders drop a little.

She turned around and almost bumped into me but I didn't move. I wanted to stay this close to her forever.

She stepped back a bit, cleared her throat and held out her hand. "Thank you for tonight Magnus, and for walking me home. I had a good time." 

I looked down at her hand and back to her grim smile and it seemed she was adamant on this handshake.

I gently gripped her hand and shook it but didn't let go. There was nothing like touching my animus.

"I hope you and the Archivio enjoy your time here at Tectum and that we will be able to sort something out against the Vargul."

I blinked. 

She was withdrawing into herself for some reason but I couldn't figure out why. Did I say something?? I couldn't help but feel confused.

I sighed inwardly but leaned down slowly and kissed her cheek, much to her surprise and my pleasure.

"Goodnight Andy, I'll see you tomorrow" and I turned and left.