State of Order by Julian North

Author:Julian North [North, Julian]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Plebeian Media
Published: 2017-10-09T23:00:00+00:00

Chapter 18

“I should go with you,” Alexander told me.

I rolled my eyes. “I’m already chaperoning Nythan. I can’t have two of you along. Stay here and start making use of the information Jalen gave us. Get control of Rose-Hart and let Nythan and me find out what’s happening in Bronx City.”

“Nythan isn’t a fighter.” I snorted, even though I shouldn’t have. “And you are? You are fast, but that’s not the same as being ruthless. The barrio is ruthless. Anyway, you underestimate Nythan. Don’t forget, he’s been going up there almost every day for weeks, setting up that clinic, working, helping people. He’s learned to blend in—as much as Nythan can blend in anywhere. I think the Trinitarios actually like him. You might be quick, Alexander, but not as quick as force blast.”

The azure of Alexander’s eyes clouded. He was actually worried about me. It was ridiculous, but I didn’t mind. I smiled, forgetting Alissa’s warning for a fleeting moment.

“I have something for you,” he said, flicking a couple of fingers on his visered hand. “I know Nythan and Jalen’s vehicle will be here for you soon, but I think we have enough time for this.”

I tilted my head. Alexander had never gotten me anything. I told him early on I didn’t want anything from him, and he had taken it to heart.

Gibbs came in holding a rectangular velvet-covered box. Alexander took it and held it before me as his servant withdrew. He opened the lid with a flourish. I gaped at the glittering object within. It was a viser.

“Rose-Hart’s latest model. It is not a Tyrell prismPulse, but quite an impressive machine nonetheless. I prefer it over the Tyrell model, although I’m biased. It's metallic hydrogen and organics. Light as a feather. Once coded to you, the encryption is unbreakable. And it’s waterproof.” He smiled at the last. It was good to see. I smiled back. For a moment, I forgot the weight on my shoulders and the fist clenched around my heart. I took the viser from its case without guilt. It was freely given, with nothing expected in return. With Alexander, I was sure of that. A true gift.

I removed my busted antique viser to make way for the new glittering sleeve of technology. It slid onto my arm like a Tuck skin, adjusting itself until it fit perfectly. Its surface was initially cold, but it quickly warmed to match my body temperature. I flicked a finger to activate its screen, then gave my consent for it to code itself to me. I drummed my fingers like a piano virtuoso. It was far more sensitive than my old device.

I looked up at Alexander and was greeted by a sea of calm blue. “Thank you.” I wrapped my arms around him, and he did the same for me. He was warm, steady, and comfortable. I was going to ruin that.

“I’m glad you like it. I was worried you wouldn’t accept it.”

I pulled back, that fleeting moment of harmony gone.

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