The Liberal Assassin

Once again, I found myself waking up in the infirmary. It was happening far too frequent and I didn't like it. However, being in one meant that I was still alive and had a second chance to right all my wrongs.

I looked around and saw Rush by the bedside.

How long have I been out? I wanted to ask but only silence came out. Rush must have replied but I was watching a silent film. Frowning at the strangeness, I wondered if this was a new kind of joke.

Oh yes. That blast from before had damaged my eardrums. This couldn't be good. I didn't realise anyone else entering the room until someone touched my arm.

Forest green eyes met mine and I smiled in relief. I really do love this man. He must have asked how I was feeling because he was already reaching over to check all my injuries while helping me sit up. It didn't hurt as badly as it did the last time but it didn't mean I wasn't as badly injured. Ignacio's investment in the best medical equipment had paid off.

This time it was Khronos who attempted to make communication with me with a device. He spoke and the device typed out the words. Taking the device from his hand, I squinted. Reading wasn't the easiest thing to do after sleeping for a while but I managed.

How do you feel?

I raised an eyebrow. How was I going to key in my reply without a keyboard? Glancing to the confused scientist, I made a typing gesture and watched the understanding dawn on him. He must have gone to grab the keyboard I needed because Rush was laughing and pounding on the mattress dramatically. If the Yankee could laugh, it meant that my injuries weren't as life-threatening.

Rolling my eyes at his antics, I tried to spot if Ignacio was around. When no brunet came to sight I closed my eyes for a moment. Well, he is a busy man after all. What I was dying to know at this point is how I got out of there and how Team Night Walker dealt with the appearance of Titus Crowley on the explosion site.

Khronos returned with the keyboard and I responded to his earlier question with as much enthusiasm as I could with one out of five senses malfunctioning. Khronos read my reply and nodded before typing for a while.

You've been out for sixteen hours. Ignacio is still handling the conference regarding why the ex CEO of Luna Services was found on site of the Night Walker's attack. He's a victim the second time and people are wondering if it is you he is targeting. There was evidence of the Night Walker on site when you ditched your supplies. Thankfully, Nash has stolen the evidence before Spencer or Rion could analyse them for your DNA.

"How is Ignacio dealing with it?" I typed.

Khronos sighed and I read from the device.

Not very well. He's pressed for your whereabouts ever since Rush forcefully discharged you from the hospital. The reason told to the public was how you were there to view an apartment you were interested in on the top floor. After some string pulling, Ignacio managed to pull together doc.u.ments proving that. The agent is from Luna Services so there is nothing to worry about. However, the Patrol Guards insist on putting you under their constant protection to prevent a third attempt on your life.

Well, at least I'm still alive. I honestly didn't think I would make it. Tapping on the keyboard, I didn't know if I wanted to hear the truth. Although there were no discriminations for deaf assassins, it would be incredibly challenging for me to continue what I'm doing if my hearing is lost permanently.

Nash gave Khronos a look at the question. The uneasiness in the room could be felt.

It will return. We just don't know how long.

I relaxed after knowing the damage wasn't permanent.

Hammering away at the keyboard, I informed Khronos of my operations.

"Lilith is dead and she got away with spilling the names. There were flaws in the tranquillizer and truth serum. She could remain silent and not give answers without triggering the mental torture. She could also give vague answers to delay time. The tranquillizer wore out sooner than expected, it wasn't strong enough to immobilise them for answers and keep them awake."

The scientist hummed thoughtfully and Nash suggested tying the target in future, something that came to me a little too late when I got caught in the mess. I tried my best to lip read the conversation when Khronos didn't bother to type and explain.

"But there is still the problem with the truth serum," Khronos told Nash who shrugged. I didn't have to read what Nash told Khronos because I could guess from the cringe on the scientist's face.

"No, I doubt that would work for someone as stubborn as Kalifa."

I had to agree. Even Thrusher kept his silence till he bled out even though he probably knew nothing. Not all Parliament members are cowards.

Speaking of cowards…

We have an issue with Rion's device. Lilith seemed so sure that Rion was going to save her when she activated it. That man probably wanted to use it and get rid of me while at it.

Nash growled and the device translated that into some gibberish making me chortle even when I can't hear it for myself. It's nice to have an overprotective father sometimes. Then again, I'm not some weak girl in need of constant protection.

Gently tugging on Nash's sleeve, I shoved the device to his face.

It's alright. I came back alive, Dad.

The word 'Dad' seemed foreign to use but it gave me a warm feeling from within. Nash must have felt the same because he gave one of those soft smiles.

Welcome home brat.