Unbowed
XXXXX
On his knees in the dirt.
At one time Florian wouldn't have imagined himself in such a position. Yet here
he was again, legs going numb from kneeling too long on the packed dirt floor.
His suit was hopelessly dirty; his body likely to be just as soiled in the near
future - either by blood or something Florian considered worse.
The smell was familiar too - the faint scent of opium and blood accompanied by
the oil and gunpowder of a gun pressed against his head. If he closed his eyes,
the dampness of this cellar could easily become the stifling heat of Morocco.
From down here on his knees, it didn't really matter where he was; it was clear
what Azura intended for him - debasement and death. Florian was sure of one
thing - Azura would not be allowed to touch him; he'd kill the bastard first,
and if that failed, he'd kill himself.
Ray would understand. He'd pieced Florian back together after the first time;
there wouldn't be a second. Florian wouldn't put that burden of responsibility
and guilt on Ray again. It didn't matter what they felt for each other - words
never spoken; actions never taken - Florian would not ask that of his friend.
The pressure of the gun against his head eased a little and Florian could hear
Azura take a step back. He didn't pretend he could use that to escape - he knew
better. Azura was many things, but careless wasn't one of them.
"On your feet." The command was accompanied by the walking cane tapping him on
the back. Florian hesitated a moment, trying to get his legs working again. The
delay earned him a pistol whipping that knocked him to the side, but he caught
himself before he landed fully in the dirt. Ignoring the pain Florian righted
himself slowly then stood. His legs screamed in protest as the circulation
returned, but Florian remained steady on his feet.
Ray was close - just out of arms' reach and Florian shifted closer, brushing
against him lightly before being pulled away. It wasn't the parting or the
promise he wanted, but it would have to suffice. He caught Ray's gaze and held
it for a moment, hoping Ray would see the strength and certainty there as well
as the absolution.
Azura prodded him with the gun and Florian stepped forward obediently, his back
straight, head held high. His stride was steady and even as he walked out of the
room. He didn't falter, even when the cellar door slammed shut behind him,
leaving Ray locked inside.
::end::