The Lang Situation
Christina and Adrian Lang sat opposite each other, an uncomfortable silence filling the room as the two stared at each other. To Christina, this entire series of decisions was nonsensical. But she’d been unable to push the matter throughout the entire move, and so let out only a sigh as the two regarded one other.
https://i.imgur.com/AR0pJGX.jpg
“So...” she said at last, “why is it that we moved here, exactly?” Before he could take any kind of offence, she clarified. “I’m not saying it’s a bad choice, I’m just saying that...are you sure Moonlight Falls is a good place for you? I’ve heard a lot of rumours about this place, and-“
“You think I’m afraid of those monsters?” Adrian let out a tense laugh. “It’s out of necessity. My old home deserted me. This area is our best option.”
“Your best option, you mean.” Christina folded her arms. “I still don’t understand why I have to be here.”
“Are you saying you want to defy Father’s final wish? For me to take care of you again?” She froze, chills running down her spine. It wasn’t that, it wasn’t. When Adrian spoke, she could tell how he held back from yelling.“You’re still sad about him, I’m sure that’s it. But don’t take it out on me. Understand me? I’ve been more of a father to you than he ever was. Don’t you forget all I’ve done for you.”
“I won’t, and I haven’t.” Christina turned away, her voice quiet, not daring to look into those bitter eyes any longer. “I just...I’m sorry. The young woman slowly exited her chair, and walked over to her chemistry set. She gave one passing glance at Adrian before getting to work.
https://i.imgur.com/DyC8SWM.jpg
“That’s right, go and play with your chemicals or whatever it is you do on that thing.” Adrian muttered something or other after that, but Christina drowned out that distant voice with her focus. Science had always made her feel better. There were so many mysteries in the universe, so many things to uncover. And, for once, she felt in control. These reactions were reliable. An acid and a base makes salt and water, an acid and a metal makes salt and hydrogen gas. These were rules of reality, rules which worked consistently, rules which she could master.
It wasn’t a totally effective distraction, however. Ojnthe edge of her mind, she still felt those emotions. Guilt. Shame. Sorrow. I didn’t mean to hurt him, I’m sorry. I didn’t mean it like that. I just don’t understand. The universe works in a consistent, rational way. People...they behave like quantum particles. Unpredictable patterns that defy all logic.
https://i.imgur.com/9f3pB2D.jpg
After a short while, she glanced at her brother. He was studying a newspaper. Looking in the news, perhaps?
She decided to risk it. “Looking at something?’
He nodded. “Applying for a job, actually.”
“Going back to a teaching position?” Adrian had previously served as a tutor, and a high-ranking lecturer. She didn’t understand how his entire life had fallen apart the way it did. He had possessed so much, achieved so much...why were they now in a land full of unnatural creations, the same kind he despised?
“Nah. Not gonna repeat old mistakes. I’m going to become a ghost hunter. Anything I can do to help alleviate the plague this place faces...” In that instant, there was a ring at the doorbell. Adrian stood up. “You deal with it. I’m taking a nap.”
https://i.imgur.com/surC4HW.jpg
Christina didn’t get in his way. Adrian was older, more muscular, more mature. He could do what he wanted, whether she liked it or not. The woman wiped a solemn frown from her face, and ventured out to the meet the guests. The first was a young man.
https://i.imgur.com/fR8jMLi.jpg
“Welcome to the neighbourhood! I’m Chester Swain. Who might you be?”
“Christina. Christina Lang. It’s very nice to meet you.” For all the trouble in her life, Christina tried to be as polite as she could be. Soon, she turned her attention to the second guest, who had- wings!?
https://i.imgur.com/Ekqto1f.jpg
“Oh, you look a little on edge! Did I scare you?”
“No, no.” Christina shook her head. “I’ve just..never seen someone like you before.”
“Well, aren’t you romantic!”
After blushing for a moment, Christina shook her head. “Not in that way! I just meant- where I’m from, supernatural creatures like you...they aren’t common. So you’re my first- my first fairy, I mean-“ At this point, the poor woman gave up, resigning to a humiliated sigh. Fortunately, the fairy seemed to understand.
“Don’t worry, I’m used to it. I’m Marigold Maldano. Nice to meet you. New in town, huh?”
Christina nodded, then held up her hand in a “shushing” gesture.
https://i.imgur.com/xzdKpHg.jpg
“I’m really sorry, but to be concise, my brother is asleep right now, and I don’t want to wake him up. I need to ask you all to leave now. Sorry.”
“That’s fine. Just thought I’d pay a little visit,” said Marigold. “See you! Hey, if you ever need me, I might be around Aleister’s sooner or later. See ya again!”
The two guests departed, and Christina pondered for a moment. Aleister’s? The elixir shop? Those are similar to potions or chemicals, right? Maybe it’s worth checking that place out for a little...
After a quick run down the street, Christina found her way into the store. She entered, taking in the sights. What an archaic yet beautiful place...but there’s no time for distraction. I need to be quick or he’s going to kill me...I should’ve asked in the first place...no. That would’ve woken him up. Besides, I’m young, but I’m an adult. I can do what I want.
“Ah, welcome young lady. How may I help you?”
“May I please see your stock?” The man obliged, and Christina examined every option. An alchemy book... could be useful. And...a Vial of Bliss? Is that some kind of happy drug or something? “I’ll take these.”
“Of course, of course. A book, I see? You know, if you’re keen to learn the art of alchemy, we do have a communal station for just that. Feel free to use it at any time, free of charge.
“Thank you.”
Christina stepped over to the elixir station. This has to be like chemistry, right? It can’t hurt to give it a quick look...
https://i.imgur.com/ZPYf1nC.jpg
After pouring trough a tome’s worth of notes, Christina began to understand the process. In fact, she was swiftly confident that she could recreate the very elixir she’d purchased. What other secrets can this process unlock? It’s not ordinary chemistry. The principles are similar, but the potential...it is far greater. Wait! I got distracted. This wasn’t supposed to take so long...I’d better be back home...
By the time she arrived, she entered to see Adrian reading some kind of cookbook.
https://i.imgur.com/wrOiKxG.jpg
“Welcome home. So, little sister, where’ve you been, exactly?”
“I made a quick run into the elixir store,” she admitted. “I was curious.”
Adrian closed his book. “You’re like Father in that respect. You always need to understand things. Well, I’d say some things are better off as mysteries. Don’t get involved in monstrous sorcery. Please tell me you weren’t so stupid as to buy something from that store, were you?” Christina shook her head. Can he tell I’m lying? He won’t be able to, right? Adrian let out a laugh. “Good. Now, I’m curious about something myself. You think curiosity is a good thing all the time, right? Go over to that chemical whatchamajig. Now.”
Christina obeyed, giving an awkward glance as she changed into her lab coat. What was this about?
https://i.imgur.com/PRzh0hz.jpg
“Make something. Anything useful. Go.”
“I don’t have all the necessary-
“Just do it!”
Fright compelled her to mix chemicals, to force reactions and monitor equilibriums. This was no longer comforting- it was intense. Why was he behaving like this all of a sudden? She added more chemicals, trying to- no, no! Too much acid! The stress was getting to her. She needed to counterbalance her error and-
An explosion erupted, singing her face. Adrian smiled. “Sit down with me.”
Christina glared. “After I wash this residue off of my-“
“Tell me, you applied for a job yet?”
“Huh? No. Excuse me, I’m going to the shower-“
https://i.imgur.com/k7Fjj02.jpg
The man grabbed her, dragging her to the couch and handing her a newspaper. He didn’t even look at her as he spoke, preferring Oates to read make about cooking.
“I’m sure there’s a science job in there somewhere. Apply for it. I’m not going to be the sole earner of this household.”
Sure enough, there was a job opening at the laboratory. Christina applied, then turned to her brother. “Happy now?”
“No, but I’m not angry anymore. Oh, and Christina?” She glared. “Don’t try and lie to me again. I know you took a vial. I’ll take it from you soon enough. Go clean yourself up now.”
Christina went to take her shower, and as she did, Adrian collected the vial. Then, he prepared himself. It was time to pay the elixir shop a visit.
https://i.imgur.com/zS10srf.jpg
A cold breeze pressed against his skin. Adrian always had loved the night. It was a time of darkness, of rebellion, of excitement and slumber all at once. But he would not feel that wonderful chill for long. After all, he had to get into the appropriate gear for his new mission.
https://i.imgur.com/AofC13A.jpg
The mask pushed against his face. Everything was covered up, save for a few strands of hair- no matter. It was enough. The police here would not recognise him. Indeed, in this attire, nobody would be able to identify him. This was his thievery gear, and he was ready for a minor heist in the name of satisfying revenge. After all, temptation needed to be cut off at every available opportunity.
https://i.imgur.com/tENv5bE.jpg
Adrian ventured toward a swarm of butterflies, trying to act inconspicuous. He could feel them watching. Those unnatural monsters. Those abominations. They were impossible, but there they were, chattering on inside. No, it was too risky to steal from here. With no other choice, Adrian decided to find another target- a nearby Landgraab Sell ‘n Swap.
https://i.imgur.com/mWV8TiR.jpg
There were people inside. But they were distracted. Adrian didn’t care what they were talking about. It was a pitiful achievement, but the best he could grab here was a small plant. So be it. He’d find better opportunities another time. For now, it was about the thrill of it. Stealing was so exhilarating.
https://i.imgur.com/X4eJO1P.jpg
With his mission achieved, Adrian decided to head back home. He couldn’t take his eye off of Christina for too long, after all. He’d chosen to be a ghost hunter for three reasons. Firstly, to hunt down aberrations. Secondly, to have an opportunity to steal from ghost-infested homes. But most importantly...his sister would be asleep. Not a threat. Not a problem.
Meanwhile, back at home, the woman exited her shower.
https://i.imgur.com/3p7urCu.jpg
“Ugh. Trust him to choose a place with the world’s worst showers. I think I’d rather have remained burnt than go through that again...” Christina frowned as she considered this. “What’s gotten into him? He’s...dangerous. And I’m too scared to even try and get out of here. Maybe I can endure it, understand it, come to terms with it...”
https://i.imgur.com/KOmp24O.jpg
She looked in the mirror, and allowed a few tears to fall. “This will get better...won’t it? He’s just stressed. This has been a difficult situation. I’m sure it’ll be fine again soon, right? I mean, he’s mean, sure, but he is my brother.”
https://i.imgur.com/BOJPEEV.jpg
“He’s not really a bad person, right?”
https://i.imgur.com/AR0pJGX.jpg
“So...” she said at last, “why is it that we moved here, exactly?” Before he could take any kind of offence, she clarified. “I’m not saying it’s a bad choice, I’m just saying that...are you sure Moonlight Falls is a good place for you? I’ve heard a lot of rumours about this place, and-“
“You think I’m afraid of those monsters?” Adrian let out a tense laugh. “It’s out of necessity. My old home deserted me. This area is our best option.”
“Your best option, you mean.” Christina folded her arms. “I still don’t understand why I have to be here.”
“Are you saying you want to defy Father’s final wish? For me to take care of you again?” She froze, chills running down her spine. It wasn’t that, it wasn’t. When Adrian spoke, she could tell how he held back from yelling.“You’re still sad about him, I’m sure that’s it. But don’t take it out on me. Understand me? I’ve been more of a father to you than he ever was. Don’t you forget all I’ve done for you.”
“I won’t, and I haven’t.” Christina turned away, her voice quiet, not daring to look into those bitter eyes any longer. “I just...I’m sorry. The young woman slowly exited her chair, and walked over to her chemistry set. She gave one passing glance at Adrian before getting to work.
https://i.imgur.com/DyC8SWM.jpg
“That’s right, go and play with your chemicals or whatever it is you do on that thing.” Adrian muttered something or other after that, but Christina drowned out that distant voice with her focus. Science had always made her feel better. There were so many mysteries in the universe, so many things to uncover. And, for once, she felt in control. These reactions were reliable. An acid and a base makes salt and water, an acid and a metal makes salt and hydrogen gas. These were rules of reality, rules which worked consistently, rules which she could master.
It wasn’t a totally effective distraction, however. Ojnthe edge of her mind, she still felt those emotions. Guilt. Shame. Sorrow. I didn’t mean to hurt him, I’m sorry. I didn’t mean it like that. I just don’t understand. The universe works in a consistent, rational way. People...they behave like quantum particles. Unpredictable patterns that defy all logic.
https://i.imgur.com/9f3pB2D.jpg
After a short while, she glanced at her brother. He was studying a newspaper. Looking in the news, perhaps?
She decided to risk it. “Looking at something?’
He nodded. “Applying for a job, actually.”
“Going back to a teaching position?” Adrian had previously served as a tutor, and a high-ranking lecturer. She didn’t understand how his entire life had fallen apart the way it did. He had possessed so much, achieved so much...why were they now in a land full of unnatural creations, the same kind he despised?
“Nah. Not gonna repeat old mistakes. I’m going to become a ghost hunter. Anything I can do to help alleviate the plague this place faces...” In that instant, there was a ring at the doorbell. Adrian stood up. “You deal with it. I’m taking a nap.”
https://i.imgur.com/surC4HW.jpg
Christina didn’t get in his way. Adrian was older, more muscular, more mature. He could do what he wanted, whether she liked it or not. The woman wiped a solemn frown from her face, and ventured out to the meet the guests. The first was a young man.
https://i.imgur.com/fR8jMLi.jpg
“Welcome to the neighbourhood! I’m Chester Swain. Who might you be?”
“Christina. Christina Lang. It’s very nice to meet you.” For all the trouble in her life, Christina tried to be as polite as she could be. Soon, she turned her attention to the second guest, who had- wings!?
https://i.imgur.com/Ekqto1f.jpg
“Oh, you look a little on edge! Did I scare you?”
“No, no.” Christina shook her head. “I’ve just..never seen someone like you before.”
“Well, aren’t you romantic!”
After blushing for a moment, Christina shook her head. “Not in that way! I just meant- where I’m from, supernatural creatures like you...they aren’t common. So you’re my first- my first fairy, I mean-“ At this point, the poor woman gave up, resigning to a humiliated sigh. Fortunately, the fairy seemed to understand.
“Don’t worry, I’m used to it. I’m Marigold Maldano. Nice to meet you. New in town, huh?”
Christina nodded, then held up her hand in a “shushing” gesture.
https://i.imgur.com/xzdKpHg.jpg
“I’m really sorry, but to be concise, my brother is asleep right now, and I don’t want to wake him up. I need to ask you all to leave now. Sorry.”
“That’s fine. Just thought I’d pay a little visit,” said Marigold. “See you! Hey, if you ever need me, I might be around Aleister’s sooner or later. See ya again!”
The two guests departed, and Christina pondered for a moment. Aleister’s? The elixir shop? Those are similar to potions or chemicals, right? Maybe it’s worth checking that place out for a little...
After a quick run down the street, Christina found her way into the store. She entered, taking in the sights. What an archaic yet beautiful place...but there’s no time for distraction. I need to be quick or he’s going to kill me...I should’ve asked in the first place...no. That would’ve woken him up. Besides, I’m young, but I’m an adult. I can do what I want.
“Ah, welcome young lady. How may I help you?”
“May I please see your stock?” The man obliged, and Christina examined every option. An alchemy book... could be useful. And...a Vial of Bliss? Is that some kind of happy drug or something? “I’ll take these.”
“Of course, of course. A book, I see? You know, if you’re keen to learn the art of alchemy, we do have a communal station for just that. Feel free to use it at any time, free of charge.
“Thank you.”
Christina stepped over to the elixir station. This has to be like chemistry, right? It can’t hurt to give it a quick look...
https://i.imgur.com/ZPYf1nC.jpg
After pouring trough a tome’s worth of notes, Christina began to understand the process. In fact, she was swiftly confident that she could recreate the very elixir she’d purchased. What other secrets can this process unlock? It’s not ordinary chemistry. The principles are similar, but the potential...it is far greater. Wait! I got distracted. This wasn’t supposed to take so long...I’d better be back home...
By the time she arrived, she entered to see Adrian reading some kind of cookbook.
https://i.imgur.com/wrOiKxG.jpg
“Welcome home. So, little sister, where’ve you been, exactly?”
“I made a quick run into the elixir store,” she admitted. “I was curious.”
Adrian closed his book. “You’re like Father in that respect. You always need to understand things. Well, I’d say some things are better off as mysteries. Don’t get involved in monstrous sorcery. Please tell me you weren’t so stupid as to buy something from that store, were you?” Christina shook her head. Can he tell I’m lying? He won’t be able to, right? Adrian let out a laugh. “Good. Now, I’m curious about something myself. You think curiosity is a good thing all the time, right? Go over to that chemical whatchamajig. Now.”
Christina obeyed, giving an awkward glance as she changed into her lab coat. What was this about?
https://i.imgur.com/PRzh0hz.jpg
“Make something. Anything useful. Go.”
“I don’t have all the necessary-
“Just do it!”
Fright compelled her to mix chemicals, to force reactions and monitor equilibriums. This was no longer comforting- it was intense. Why was he behaving like this all of a sudden? She added more chemicals, trying to- no, no! Too much acid! The stress was getting to her. She needed to counterbalance her error and-
An explosion erupted, singing her face. Adrian smiled. “Sit down with me.”
Christina glared. “After I wash this residue off of my-“
“Tell me, you applied for a job yet?”
“Huh? No. Excuse me, I’m going to the shower-“
https://i.imgur.com/k7Fjj02.jpg
The man grabbed her, dragging her to the couch and handing her a newspaper. He didn’t even look at her as he spoke, preferring Oates to read make about cooking.
“I’m sure there’s a science job in there somewhere. Apply for it. I’m not going to be the sole earner of this household.”
Sure enough, there was a job opening at the laboratory. Christina applied, then turned to her brother. “Happy now?”
“No, but I’m not angry anymore. Oh, and Christina?” She glared. “Don’t try and lie to me again. I know you took a vial. I’ll take it from you soon enough. Go clean yourself up now.”
Christina went to take her shower, and as she did, Adrian collected the vial. Then, he prepared himself. It was time to pay the elixir shop a visit.
https://i.imgur.com/zS10srf.jpg
A cold breeze pressed against his skin. Adrian always had loved the night. It was a time of darkness, of rebellion, of excitement and slumber all at once. But he would not feel that wonderful chill for long. After all, he had to get into the appropriate gear for his new mission.
https://i.imgur.com/AofC13A.jpg
The mask pushed against his face. Everything was covered up, save for a few strands of hair- no matter. It was enough. The police here would not recognise him. Indeed, in this attire, nobody would be able to identify him. This was his thievery gear, and he was ready for a minor heist in the name of satisfying revenge. After all, temptation needed to be cut off at every available opportunity.
https://i.imgur.com/tENv5bE.jpg
Adrian ventured toward a swarm of butterflies, trying to act inconspicuous. He could feel them watching. Those unnatural monsters. Those abominations. They were impossible, but there they were, chattering on inside. No, it was too risky to steal from here. With no other choice, Adrian decided to find another target- a nearby Landgraab Sell ‘n Swap.
https://i.imgur.com/mWV8TiR.jpg
There were people inside. But they were distracted. Adrian didn’t care what they were talking about. It was a pitiful achievement, but the best he could grab here was a small plant. So be it. He’d find better opportunities another time. For now, it was about the thrill of it. Stealing was so exhilarating.
https://i.imgur.com/X4eJO1P.jpg
With his mission achieved, Adrian decided to head back home. He couldn’t take his eye off of Christina for too long, after all. He’d chosen to be a ghost hunter for three reasons. Firstly, to hunt down aberrations. Secondly, to have an opportunity to steal from ghost-infested homes. But most importantly...his sister would be asleep. Not a threat. Not a problem.
Meanwhile, back at home, the woman exited her shower.
https://i.imgur.com/3p7urCu.jpg
“Ugh. Trust him to choose a place with the world’s worst showers. I think I’d rather have remained burnt than go through that again...” Christina frowned as she considered this. “What’s gotten into him? He’s...dangerous. And I’m too scared to even try and get out of here. Maybe I can endure it, understand it, come to terms with it...”
https://i.imgur.com/KOmp24O.jpg
She looked in the mirror, and allowed a few tears to fall. “This will get better...won’t it? He’s just stressed. This has been a difficult situation. I’m sure it’ll be fine again soon, right? I mean, he’s mean, sure, but he is my brother.”
https://i.imgur.com/BOJPEEV.jpg
“He’s not really a bad person, right?”
