The Solution (2nd Edition)

Chon

I got to the security lounge and the whispers started. But some folks were happy criticizing aloud. In particular, an elderly couple chortled and looked in my direction, while others took off shoes and emptied pockets. "That's the news guy," the bold-eyed woman said to the plump man. "You know, the one with the perverted xiōngdi."

    I stared back and grimaced.

    Surprisingly, the old man rolled his eyes. The woman continued. "Apparently, they're Traditionalist," she said, "but the community will never excuse their shame."

    That's how it was. Those in my religious sect were unforgiving and quick to judge.

    I was furious and wanted to retaliate, but as I plucked the courage, the man shot her down in flames! "Qan, have heart," he hissed. "This guy's not responsible for his xiōngdi's actions and has done nothing to evoke shame himself. Give him a break."

    I was glad some people remained impartial, and kind. As a mark of gratitude, I nodded at the man. Then I collected my things from the high-tech conveyor belt. Afterwards I buried the embarrassment and headed for the candle shop in duty free. Once I entered Lantern, I avoided an eager-looking salesman and hovered around the incense section. Thankfully, it was in a dark corner. As I studied each packet, I was disappointed as lavender and vanilla were the only ones worth buying. And so, I decided to wait and see what the Frankfurt one might offer. While I contemplated a better quality of stick, someone came up behind me, and clamped their hands onto my shoulders... Instantly I shut my eyelids, so much so, I started to feel a dull pain and see a synergy of dark sparkles.

    I wished it was Sarah, but these hands were too heavy.

    Next, I thought it might be Mikey, but he was just as heavy-handed as Henry on BTV security.

    No, these hands were somewhere in the middle, and could only belong to a few people I knew. All of my friends and family's movements were accounted for, including Xen's. And so, I knew they were his. As he tugged me around, my eyes popped open, and he looked as if nothing was wrong. "Brother, I was hoping to catch you..."

    I was unsure of how to tackle Xen. After all, it had been two months since we were last face to face.

    It had been two months since I'd physically lost it...