This is the first in our series of short stories connected to our main novels. This story, by Greg Meyer, gives us a glimpse of Calea during her time as Guide of Section 4. Enjoy! And don’t forget to pick up The Select’s Bodyguard if you haven’t.
Jalseion- Section 4— Three Years Before the Cataclysm
The Aurelian Concert Hall buzzed with excited chatter. As the people moved down the aisles to find their seats, one concertgoer did not share the same fervor as the rest. Select Calea Lisan, Guide of Section 4, marched up the many flights of stairs to a private balcony like a child going to the dentist. Calea huffed as her elegant dress swished and bobbed with every step, glittering in the light of the fluorescent lights hung on the walls. If she hadn’t been accompanied by her two companions, Calea would’ve turned and made a daring escape back to her beloved laboratory.
“With the amount of money that’s spent on this place, is it so much to ask for an elevator?” said Calea as she reached another landing. Calea grabbed the railing and stomped up the last flight of stairs.
The grey-haired woman behind Calea chuckled as she followed. “At least you’re getting your exercise in for the day,” said Almetter, Calea’s public relations manager. Almetter was used to Calea’s tantrums, having been her mentor since the Select’s youth. After spending so many years mentoring the Guide as a child, Almetter was one of the few people bothered listening to for advice in matters Calea called “dealing with the needy people.” The concert program slipped from Almetter’s hand, but their third, silent companion swooped down and grabbed it for her.
“Thank you, Bron,” said Almetter to Calea’s bodyguard. Bron nodded and slipped to the back.
The three made their way into the balcony, and Bron helped Calea and Almetter through the balcony curtains before positioning himself at the entrance to stand guard. Calea tossed her hair back and leaned her head against her hand, checking her watch for when the performances would start.
“I need a drink,” said the annoyed Select before glancing back at Bron. “Do something useful and bring me a glass of wine.”
Bron shifted uncomfortably at the request and shook his head. “You’re not allowed to drink at public events. Not after the last time.” (more…)
I think it’s a safe assumption to say that every single one of us have our fair share of flaws. Even if the most beautiful person stood in front of a mirror, I bet they could easily name a few things that they didn’t like about themselves. When I look in the mirror, I see where my beard doesn’t grow in on my chin, or the scar by my left eye I received from a fall when I was four.
