The Indigo Spell Chapter Four

I FROZE. I didnt curse myself to respond.What was Adrian thinking? Putting aside both the drama between us, it was absolutely unforgivable to ask this here, in front of other Moroi and Alchemists. maybe in Palm Springs, where things were a runty more casual with my friends, it force non be that crazy a request. But here? He risked exposing that we knew all(prenominal) other, which in turn risked Jill. Al well-nigh as majestic, it could be a tip-off of his feelings for me. regular(a) if I insisted that I had no matching feelings, the fact that things had progressed this furtherther could rag me in serious trouble with the Alchemists.As all these nonions raced with with(predicate) my mind, a more concerning bingle suddenly popped up. A honorable Alchemist shouldnt be worried ab appear any of those things. A good Alchemist would view as scarcely been horrified at the immediate problem dancing with a Moroi. trace a vampire. Realizing this, I quickly mustered an a ppearraged prospect, hoping I olfactory perceptioned convincing.Fortunately, every cardinal(a) else was too floor to pay very much attention to me. Good relations single went so far. Stanton and Ian wore legitimate looks of disgust. The Moroi expertby while not appalled, were stupid(p) at the open frame of etiquette. And yet . . . I also axiom a couple substitution looks that express they werent t come out of the closet ensemble surprised Adrian Ivashkov would suggest darkhing so outrageous. This was an attitude Id chew the fatn a tidy sum with him. People often shrugged off his behavior with, Well, thats Adrian.Ian found his enunciate first. She . . . no She absolutely chiffoniertWhy not? Adrian glanced between all our faces, his expression salve sunny and unassuming. We are all friends, right?Abe, who was rarely eat up a pole by anything, managed to shake off approximately of his surprise. Im authentic its not that commodious a deal. His t unmatched was u ncertain. He knew that Adrian wasnt a total stranger to me entirely undoubtedly assumed I had the usual Alchemist hang-ups. As tonight had demonstrated, most Alchemists free struggled with detentionhakes.Stanton seemed to be waging a mental war. I knew she panorama it was an hoidenish request . . . yet she was quiesce conscious of the need to keep things pleasant. She swallowed. perchance . . . perhaps it would be a keen gesture. She shot me a pitying look that seemed to tell, Some sequences you present to take one for the team.Ian jerked his stage toward her. ar you crazy?Mr. Jansen, she snapped, conveying a stern warning in vindicatory his name. wholly eyeball turned toward me as everyone realize that ultimately, it was my decision. At this point, I didnt contend if I should be shocked or scared and the thought of dancing with Adrian do me feel both. I met Stantons eyes again and late gave a nod. Sure. Okay. Good relations, right?Ians face turned bright red, s ave another sharp look from Stanton kept him silent. As Adrian led me to the dancing floor, I heard a someer whispered comments from curious Moroi mentioning that abject Alchemist girl and at that places no predicting what he does sometimes.Adrian rear his arm around my waist, absolutely proper and distant. I act not to think about the function time Id been in his arms. Even with appropriate spacing between us, our workforce were even clasped, our stances still intimate. I was hyperaware of every single place his fingers be on my body. His touch was light and delicate still seemed to carry an marvellous heat and intensity.What were you thinking? I demanded once we were abject to the music. I was threatening to ignore his trades. Do you whap how much trouble you may guard gotten me in?Adrian grinned. Nah. They all feel bad for you. Youll achieve martyrdom after(prenominal) dancing with a mean, wicked vampire. Job security with the Alchemists.I thought you werent going to pressure me about . . . you discern . . . that stuff. . . .The look of innocence returned. pick out I said a word about that? I well(p) asked you to dance as a political gesture, thats all. He paused for impact. Seems like youre the one who cant hold up that stuff off your mind.Stop turning my course against me Thats not no thats not right at all.You should see that Stanton womanhood ceremonial us, he re strike outed with amusement, glancing behind me.Everyones watching us, I grumbled. It wasnt like the entire manner had come to a standstill, but there were certainly a deem of curious onlookers, gawking at the incredible sight of a Moroi and a pitying an Alchemist, at that dancing.He nodded and swept me into a turn. He was a good dancer, which wasnt entirely a surprise. Adrian might be brash and impertinent, but he knew how to move. Maybe dance lessons had been part of growing up in an elect tier of Moroi society. Or maybe he was that naturally apt at usin g his body. That kiss had certainly show a decent amount of talent. . . .Ugh. Adrian was right. I was the one who couldnt rush over that stuff.Unaware of my thoughts, he glanced over at Stanton again. Shes got the look of a general who just send her army on a suicide mission.Nice to know she cares, I said. For a moment, I forgot my dance floor woes as I thought angrily pricker to Stantons need to know attitude.I can shoot you close upr, if you necessity, he said. bonny to see how much she cares. Im al miens willing to financial aid like that, you know.Youre a real team player, I said. If placeting me in danger is for the greater good, then Stanton probably wouldnt do anything about you moving in on me.Adrians self-satisfied smirk faded. Did she ever come houseclean about that guy you were trying to find? Martin?Marcus, I corrected. I frowned. Her demurral still bothered me. She keeps claiming she doesnt know him, and I cant push too hard if I dont want her to create sus picious.I thought of a way you might find him, said Adrian. I wouldve thought he was intercommunicate if his face wasnt so serious.You did? I asked. The Alchemists had vast information at our disposal, with hands in all sorts of agencies and organizations. Id been scouring them these fail few weeks and found it unlikely that Adrian would stool access to something I didnt.Yup. Youve got his picture, right? Couldnt you just do the homogeneous spell you did the other night? Locate him that way?I was so surprised, I nearly devolve onped. Adrian tightened his grip to keep me from falling. I shivered as that underage gesture brought us enveloping(prenominal). The tension between us kicked up a notch, and I realized that along with our bodies world nearer, so were our lips.I had a little difficulty oral presentation, both because of how it felt to be so close to him and because I was still stunned by what hed said. Thats . . . wow . . . thats not a bad idea. . . .I know, he said. Im kind of amazed myself.Really, the circumstances were no different from finding Ms. Terwilligers babe. I needed to locate someone Id neer met. I had a picture, which was what the spell required. What was different was that Id be initiating the spell myself. It was a difficult piece of conjuring, and I knew Ms. Terwilligers coaching had servicinged me. There was also the clean dilemma of working that type of spell on my own. My conscience had an easier time handling legerdemain when I felt coerced.I couldnt try until neighboring month, I said, thinking back to the spell book. I mean, I have the picture with me, but the spells got to be done during a full moon. This is the withstand night for the current one, and Id never be able to get the components in time.What do you need?I told him, and he nodded along, promising he could get them.I scoffed. Where are you going to get anise and hyssop at this time of night? In this town?This towns full of quirky boutique shops. Theres some herbal place that sells soaps and perfume make of anything you can view. I guarantee theyve got what you need.And I guarantee theyre closed. He swept me into another flourish-filled spin, and I kept up with him perfectly.The strain was wrapping up. The time had flown by swift than Id thought. Id forgotten about the onlookers. Id even forgotten I was with a vampire. I was simply dancing with Adrian, which felt easy and natural, so long as I didnt think about our audience.His roguish look returned. Dont worry about that. I can find the owner and talk her into making an exception.I groaned. No. Not compulsion. Compulsion was an ability vampires had to force their wills on others. All vampires had it to a slim extent, and opinion users had it in excess. Most Moroi considered it immoral. Alchemists considered it a sin.The song ended, but Adrian didnt release me right away. He leaned a little closer. Do you want to wait another month to find Marcus?No, I admitted.Adrians lips w ere a breath away. Then well meet in twain hours by the hotels function portal. I gave a weak nod, and he stepped back, releasing my hands. Heres one last sign of good relations. With a bow that couldve come straight out of a Jane Austen novel, he gestured to the bar and communicate loudly. Thank you for the dance. May I escort you to get a drink?I followed without a word, my notch spinning with what Id need to do in two hours. At the bar, Adrian astonished me by ordering ginger ale. Nice restraint, I said, realizing hed need to gravel sober to work spirit. I hoped he hadnt indulged too much already. For him, the single thing better than an open bar would be a wooing of cigarettes showing up at his door.Im a master of self-control, he declared.I wasnt so sure of that but didnt contradict him. I sipped my Diet Coke, and we stood there in comfortable silence. Two Moroi men sidled up the bar near us, talking with the volume and exuberance of those who hadnt held back on samplin g unthaw liquor.Well, no matter how liberal that girl is, shes certainly easy on the eyes, one guy said. I could look at her all day, in particular in that dress.His friend nodded. Definitely an improvement over Tatiana. Too bad about what happened to her, but maybe a change of scenery was for the best. Did that woman ever smile? They both laughed at the joke.Beside me, Adrians own smile vanished, and he went perfectly still. Tatiana, the former Moroi queen, had been Christians great-aunt. Shed been viciously murdered this summer, and though Adrian rarely spoke about her, Id heard from a number of deal that theyd been close. Adrians lips twisted into a snarl, and he started to turn around. Without hesitation, I reached out and grabbed his free hand, holding it tightly.Adrian, dont, I said softly.Sydney, they cant say that. There was a dangerous look in his eyes, one Id never seen.I squeezed his hand harder. Theyre d propelk, and theyre stupid. Theyre not worth your time. delight dont start a scene here for Sonyas sake. I hesitated. And for me.His face was still filled with rage, and for a moment, I thought he would ignore me and reserve a glass at one of those guys. Or worse. Id seen angry spirit users, and they were terrifying. At last, that fury faded, and I felt his hand relax in mine. He closed his eyes briefly, and when he opened them again, they were dazed and un localiseed.No one unfeignedly knew her, Sydney. The sorrow in his voice broke my heart. They all thought she was some draconian bitch. They never knew how funny she was, how sweet she could be. You cant . . . you cant imagine how much I miss her. She didnt deserve to die like that. She was the solely one who understood me even more than my own parents. She accepted me. She saw the good in my soul. She was the besides one who confided in me.He was rest in front of me, but he wasnt with me. I recognized the rambling, overwhelming nature of spirit. It messed with its users minds. sometim es it made them scattered and distant, like he was now. Sometimes it challenged peoples grip on reality. And sometimes, it could create a despair with devastating consequences.She wasnt the only one, I told him. I believe in you. Shes at peace, and nothing they say can change who she was. Please come back to me.He still stared off into someplace I couldnt follow. After a few stir moments, he blinked and focused on me. His expression was still sad, but at least he was in control again. Im here, Sage. He removed his hand and glanced around to make sure no one had seen me holding it. Thankfully, the bride and bridegroom had taken to the dance floor, and everyone was too mesmerized watching them. Two hours.He knocked back the rest of his drink and flinged away. I watched him until he disappeared into the crowd, and then I returned to my own table, glancing at the clock along the way Two hours.Ian jumped out of his seat at my approach. Are you okay?No Moroi well-wishers were around, s o only Stanton was nearby to hear him. She seemed to donation his concern. Im sorry you had to endure that, Miss Sage. As always, your dedication to our work is admirable.I do what I can to help, maam, I said. I was still worried about Adrian and hoped he wouldnt slip back into spirits grip again.Did he hurt you? asked Ian, pointing. Your hands?I looked down and realized Id been strikebing my hands unneurotic. They were warm from where Adrian had touched me. Huh? Oh, no. Just, um, trying to rub the taint off. In fact . . . I should probably go wake up. Be right back.They seemed to find this a perfectly reasonable idea and didnt stop me as I hurried to the restroom. Free of their concern, I voiceless a sigh of relief. Id dodged two bul allows here, by not letting the Alchemists know that I was friendly with a vampire and also that I was plotting magic with him.Sydney?I was so distracted when walking out of the restroom that I hadnt noticed Rose rest nearby with Dimitri Belikov. They stood arm in arm, rapturous at my surprise. I hadnt seen Dimitri tonight, and his black and white guardian attire told me why. He was on duty here and had undoubtedly been one of the shadows darting among the trees of the greenhouse, keeping a watch on everyone. He must be on a cash in ones chips now because there was no way hed be standing so casually here, even with Rose, otherwise. And really, casual for Dimitri meant he could still move into battle at any moment.They were a striking couple. His dark-haired, dark-eyed looks matched hers, and they were both dazzlingly attractive. It was no wonder Adrian had fallen for her, and I felt surprised at how uncomfortable that memory made me. Like Sonya and Mikhail, there was a alinement of love between Rose and Dimitri that was almost palpable.Are you okay? asked Rose, eyes kind. I cant believe Adrian did that to you. She reconsidered. Then again, I kind of can believe it.Im fine, I said. I think the other Alchemists were more appalled than I was. I remembered belatedly that even if Rose and Dimitri knew I knew Adrian from Palm Springs, I still couldnt act too at ease here. I put on my earlier look of outrage. It was still out of line, though.Proprietys never been Adrians heavy grammatical case, Dimitri observed.Rose laughed at the understatement. If it makes you feel any better, you guys looked really good together out there. Made it hard to believe youre mortal enemies . . . or whatever it is Alchemists think. She gestured to my dress. You even coordinated.Id totally forgotten what I was wearing. It was a short-sleeved silk dress, almost entirely black save for some splashes of royal blue on the skirt. That was a bolder color than I would normally wear, but the black tempered it. intellection back to Adrians shades of blue, I realized our palettes had indeed complemented each other.You guys looked really good together. I dont know what expression I wore, but it made Rose laugh again.Dont look so pan icked, Rose said, eyes shining. It was nice seeing a human and a Moroi look like they plump together.Belong together.Why did she keep saying things like that? Her language were messing with the cool, dianoetic demeanor I tried to maintain. I knew she was speaking in that friendly, diplomatical way that everyone was pushing so hard for. But as advancing as Rose and Dimitri were, I knew even they would be shocked if they knew the rightfulness about Adrians feelings and that monumental kiss.I spent the rest of the reception with a knot of anxiety expression within me. Fortunately, I didnt have to wrap up it. Moroi and Alchemist alike expected me to feel that way. In fact, Stanton soon got her own share of diplomacy when a middle-aged Moroi guy asked her to dance, obviously taking a cue from Adrians display of goodwill. Apparently, as outrageous as Adrians behavior had been, some Moroi thought it had been a smart move and decided to follow suit. Stanton could barely refuse after encouraging me, so she took the dance floor with gritted teeth. No one asked Ian to dance, which was probably just as well. He didnt look at all dis official.Adrian stayed away, presumably to gather my spell components. Time ticked down, and as the two-hour mark approached, I realized that although Id brought Marcuss picture with me on this trip (I rarely let it out of my sight), it was still in my room. I excused myself from Ian, telling him I needed to go back to the inn to change place and would take one of the cars that had been ferrying wedding guests around town.Ians face immediately grew protective. Do you want me to go with you? Its not safe out there.I agitate my head. No, you need to stay here. Stantons in more danger. She was standing near the bar, speaking to two Moroi men. I wondered if she had another dance in her future. Besides, its early, so theres still more of them here than out there. At least the inn is run by humans.Ian couldnt fault my Alchemist logic and r eluctantly let me go. Catching a town car was easy, and I was able to make the round trip in almost the perfect amount of time. I even changed shoes so that Id have proof for my story. Although Id worn heels to the wedding, Id packed flats in my suitcase, just in case. That was just smart planning for any occasion.When I reached the assistant door, however, I realized my clever planning had failed. Filled with haste and anxiety, Id unexpended my warm, heavy shawl in the car, which was probably long gone. Now, waiting for Adrian in the virulent Pennsylvania cold, I wrapped my arms around myself and hoped I wouldnt deflect in front he showed up.He was good to his word, though, and arrived at exactly the appointed time with a tote bag over one shoulder. Even better, he was completely back to his normal self. Ready to go, he told me. in earnest? I asked, my teeth chattering. You found everything?He patted the bag. You ask, I deliver. Now where do we need to do this?Somewhere remote . I scanned around. Beyond the hotels place lot was a vacant field that I hoped would suffice. There.Walking across the well-salted parking lot wasnt a problem, but once we off-roaded into the snowy field, even my matter-of-fact flats were of no use. I was also so cold that I surmise my skin was as blue as my dress.Stop, said Adrian at one point.We need to go a little farther, I protested.Adrian, whod had the sense to put on a wool coat, was taking it off. Here.Youll be cold, I protested, though I didnt stop him when he stepped forward and helped me put the coat on. He was taller than me, so the three-quarter length was mercifully full length on me. Its sweetness was a mix of smoke and cologne.There. He pulled the coat more tightly around me. Ive got long sleeves and the jacket. Now come on lets hurry.He didnt have to tell me twice. Aside from the temperature, we had to do this before we were caught by others. Even I wasnt going to be able to explain this away to the Alchemists .The moon was still crisp and bright when we finally found an acceptable spot. I sifted through Adrians bag, amazed that hed come through with everything, from the mirror to the dried leaves and flowers. He stayed dim as I set it all up, only speaking when I was just about ready to go.Is there anything I can do? he asked gently.Just keep watch, I said. And hex me if I strangle out.Gladly.Id memorized the spell when Ms. Terwilliger and I had performed it. Still, I was nervous about going solo, particularly since the environment was so distracting. It was kind of hard to find the mental focus I needed while kneeling in snow. Then I thought back to Stanton and the lies the Alchemists were telling me. A spark of anger flared in me, creating warmth of a different sort. I used that to direct my thoughts as I stared at Marcuss picture. He was Adrians age, with shoulder-length blond hair and a musing look in his blue eyes. The tattoo on his check was a tangle of indigo crescents. Slowl y, I managed to sink into the spell.I felt that same euphoria as the mirror shifted into a city image. No shock blocked me this time since presumably Marcus wasnt wielding the kind of protective magic that Ms. Terwilligers sister had been using. The scene before me showed what looked like a very modest studio apartment. A mattress lay on the floor, and an ancient TV sat in one corner. I looked around for any identifying features but found nothing. The rooms one window finally gave me a clue. Outside in the distance, I could see a Spanish-style building that looked like a church or monastery. It was made of white stucco, with red-roofed domed towers. I tried to get a closer look, to fly up like I had in the other spell, but suddenly, I became aware of the Pennsylvania cold seeping into me. The image shattered, and I was back to kneeling in the field.Ugh, I said, putting my hand to my forehead. So close.Did you see anything? Adrian asked.Nothing thatll help.I stood and felt a little light-headed but managed to stay upright. I could see Adrian ready and waiting to catch me in case I did indeed keel over. You okay?I think so. Just a little light-headed from the blood simoleons drop. I slowly gathered up the mirror and bag. I shouldve had you get orange juice too.Maybe thisll help. Adrian produced a silver flask from his suit jackets inner pocket and handed it toward me.So typical, Adrian helpfully offering alcohol. You know I dont drink, I said.A few sips wont get you drunk, Sage. And its your lucky night its Kahlua. Packed with sugar and coffee-flavored. Trade me and try.Grudgingly, I handed him the bag and then took the flask as we began walking back to the hotel. I took a dubious sip and grimaced. That is not coffee-flavored. No matter how much people tried to dress up alcohol, it always tasted awful to me. I didnt understand how he could consume so much. But, I could taste the sugar, and after a few more sips, I felt steadier. That was all I drank since I didnt want to get dizzy for different reasons.Whatd you see? asked Adrian, once we reached the parking lot.I described the spells scene and sighed in frustration. That could be any building in California. Or the Southwest. Or Mexico.Adrian came to a halt and slung the bag over one shoulder. Maybe. . . . He took out his phone from his jacket and typed in a few things. I shivered and tried to be patient as he searched for what he needed. Did it look like this?I peered at the screen and felt my clack drop. I was looking at a picture of the building from my vision.Yes What is it?The senile Mission Santa Barbara. And then, just in case I needed help, he added, Its in Santa Barbara.How did you know that? I exclaimed. What that building is, I mean.He shrugged. Because Ive been to Santa Barbara. Does this help you?My earlier dismay transformed into excitement. Yes Based on the windows position, I can get a pretty good idea of where the apartment is. You may have found Marcus Finch. Caug ht up in my elation, I squeezed his arm.Adrian rested a gloved hand on my cheek and smiled down at me. And to think, Angeline said I was too pretty to be useful. Looks like I might have something to offer to the world after all.Youre still pretty, I said, the words slipping out before I could stop them. Another of those knifelike moments hung between us, the moonlight illuminating his striking features. Then it was shattered by a voice in the darkness.Whos there?Both of us flinched and jerked back as a black-and-white-clad figure seemed to materialize out of the shadows. A guardian. It was no one I knew, but I realized Id been foolish if I thought we could slip in and out of the hotel unseen. The grounds were probably spook with guardians, keeping watch for Strigoi. They wouldnt have cared much about two people leaving, but our return would naturally be challenged.Hey, Pete, said Adrian, putting on that easygoing smile he excelled at. Nice to see you. desire youre not too cold ou t here.The guardian seemed to relax a little upon recognizing Adrian, but he was still suspicious. What are you two doing outside?Just walking Miss Sage back, said Adrian. She had to get something from her room.I gave him a puzzled look. The inn wasnt in this direction. Pete looked dazed for a moment. Then he nodded in understanding. I see. Well, youd better get back inside before you freeze.Thanks, said Adrian, steering me away. Make sure you get a break and try the canapes. Theyre amazing.You compelled him, I whispered, once we were safely out of earshot.Only a little, said Adrian. He sounded very proud of himself. And being outside to walk you is a valid reason, one he wont think too much about later. Compelling someone into believing a story flora best if theres a little truth Adrian? Sydney?Wed almost reached the back of the building now and were suddenly face-to-face with an ivory-clad figure. Sonya stood before us, a fur take wrapped around her. Once again, I was struck by her peach tree and the happy glow she seemed to radiate. She gave us a puzzled smile.What are you two doing out here? she asked.Both of us were speechless. Adrian had no brash words or tricks. Sonya was a spirit user too, and compulsion wouldnt work on her. Frantically, I groped for some excuse that wasnt We were out using illicit magic in a continuing effort to uncover secrets the Alchemists dont want me to know about.You cant tell, I blurted out to her. I held up the flask. Adrian was letting me sneak some of his Kahlua. Stantonll kill me if she finds out.Sonya looked understandably startled. I didnt think you drank.Tonights been kind of stressful, I said. It was scarce a lie.And its coffee-flavored, Adrian pointed out, as though that might aid our cause.I wasnt sure if Sonya was buying it, so I attempted a change in subject. Congratulations, by the way. I didnt have a chance to talk to you earlier. You look beautiful.Sonya let go of her inquisitiveness and offered me a smile. Thank you. Its kind of unreal. Mikhail and I have been through so much . . . there were times I never thought wed reach this moment. And now . . . She glanced down at the diamond sparkling on her hand. Well, here we are.What are you doing out here, Mrs. Tanner? Adrian had recover himself and was back to his outgoing self. Shouldnt you be inside gazing adoringly at your preserve?She chuckled. Oh, weve got a lifetime of that ahead. Honestly, I just needed to get out of the crowd. Sonya took a deep breath of the crisp, cold air. I should probably get back soon. Were about to throw the bouquet. You arent going to miss your chance, are you? That was to me.I scoffed. I think Ill sit this one out. Ive already caused too much speculation tonight.Ah, yes. Your infamous dance. Sonya glanced between us, and a bit of her earlier obfuscation returned. You two look very good together. Awkward silence go away for a few seconds, and then she cleared her throat. Well, Im getting in where its wa rm. Hope youll change your mind, Sydney.She disappeared through the service door, and I resisted the urge to beat my head against the wall. She knows were lying. She can tell. Spirit users were good at reading subtle cues from people, with Sonya being one of the best.Probably, agreed Adrian. But I doubt shes going to mean we were out working magic in a field.A terrible thought came to me. Oh God. She probably thinks we were off doing you know romantic type, um, things That amused Adrian far more than it should have. See, there you go again. Thats the first thought that comes to your mind. He shake his head melodramatically. I cant believe you keep accusing me of being the obsess one.Im not obsessed I exclaimed. Im just pointing out the obvious conclusion.Maybe to you. But shes right about one thing we need to get inside. He anxiously touched his hair. I think my hair gels frozen.I handed him back the flask and opened the door. Just before stepping through, I hesitated and glanc ed back at him. Adrian? Thanks for helping me.What are friends for? He caught the door from me and motioned for me to go inside.Yeah, but you went above and beyond tonight for something that has nothing to do with you. I appreciate that. You didnt have to help. You dont have the same reasons I have for cracking open the Alchemists.Not knowing what else to say, I gave him a small nod of thanks and went inside. As the warmth and noise of the crowd swallowed us, I thought I heard him say, I have different reasons.