The Last Pythagorean: Book 1 Page 10

  - What is input? -I asked when I found the written word at the bottom of a page.

  -It's a kind of mentalism... -Oh. The explanation is on the next page. My father was looking for explanations in quantum physics.

  -And did he?

  -For some mentalisms yes, for others no... -Oh! Some of them can be explained by the principle of quantum entanglement... Most of them seem to be much more complex and it is not possible to study them through current science.

  There was a list of about fifty names on the back of the page.

  -You can do all these ment... -Oh. ment...

  -Mentalisms.

  -That... Can you?

  -No... That's why I'm looking for information, because I need to get it. If I have to fight Aryon, I need to be better than him. If not... I won't even have a chance.

  -But didn't you tell me you inherited the gift? -Yeah.

  -Yes, I did. But I never explored it. It takes a rigorous training to achieve more advanced mentalities.

  -But what about monitoring?

  - That's something I've always done. When I meet a person, a kind of connection is established and I can see the events that occur in their life, like in a movie. But it takes a lot of effort... It takes a kind of trance to get it. You've been making me exhausted these past few days.

  -Why?

  -Because I spend a lot of energy to get into this trance... -Oh. And even more to do the monitoring.

  - I'm sorry...

  -No need to apologize, I love monitoring you. -Oh!

  -There's something I want to ask you. - I said forgetting my notebook -Question.

  -You said Aryon wishes you were dead. -Oh. - I felt a bitter taste when I pronounced it. - But did your mother tell you why?

  -Yes... She did. It's a crazy story Cecilia... He desires absolute power and believes that I can hinder his plans.

  -I don't understand...

  -I don't understand it right... -Oh... What I know is this... Aryon does not admit the existence of people who can stop him from having immense power.

  -But power over what?

  About everything. About the laws of the cosmos, people, anyway... Everything that's possible. I can't explain your real pretensions exactly. - He said it with concentrated expression.

  I continued to leaf through the notebook, reading all the explanations that could be useful to Homero.

  -When do you start training? - I asked.

  -I don't know yet. -Maybe Aryon will find me first. The accident was the first attempt, and he's probably already preparing the second. I don't know if I can get away with it this time.

  -The problem is, we can't even run away. -Yeah. - I said sure.

  -Cecilia, that's it! How I didn't think of that before! - He suddenly exclaimed.

  -Did he go crazy? He'd find us anywhere... - I concluded by considering the enemy's abnormal abilities.

  -Not if we went too far... -Oh! So far away that we'd be in another time.

  -Would that be right?

  -That would confuse him for a long time and I'd gain time to train... -Oh. Look, I know the further away a person is, the harder it becomes to see the events that occur with them. He won't be able to detect my exact location immediately.

  -And when he does?

  -When he does, I'll have trained enough to defeat him. -Yes. That's my only hope. - He said as the glow returned to his eyes.

  But Homero, I can't go with you. What would I tell Lorena? I'd be committed if I told the truth.

  -We really can't tell the truth. -He said being rational.

  Silence occupied the place.

  -I had an idea, maybe it'll work. – Homero said after a period of concentration. - We can say we decided to live together...

  -But that's crazy! -Oh! We just met... - I said discarding the idea instantly. - And I haven't turned 18 yet, I can't do that. My guardianship is with Lorena.

  -When you reach the age of majority?

  -In two weeks. -Oh.

  -Cecilia... If you really want to go with me, it's the only option.

  Lie

  The heat had just arrived in Siena when I woke up feeling the thin sheet warming me unnecessarily. The intense clarity of the morning kept my eyes almost closed as I got up from bed.

  It was my birthday.

  On no day of the previous two weeks had I commented on Lorraine's sound about "living with Homero. The moment was coming.

  After showering and brushing my teeth, I put on my contact lenses and went to the kitchen. Lorena was waiting for me with a package in her hands. Giovanna was next to me holding a bright red package.

  -Happy birthday! - They said in chorus.

  -I didn't need any presents...

  -Sure I did! - Lorena said delivering me the box with colored paper around it.

  An imported perfume bottle that had amber fragrance was revealed to me when I opened the box. Giovanna had presented me with a portrait door, which printed a picture with both of us.

  - It's beautiful. - I said thank you.

  While we were having coffee I decided to prepare Lorena for a conversation that would take place in the afternoon.

  -Lorena, when I finish school Homero will come with me. We need to talk to you.

  -What about? - The eyes were surprised.

  -About a decision.

  -You're not pregnant, are you? -Yes. - She was very direct when she asked.

  -No, don't worry, it's not that. -Yeah.

  -It's okay... I'll die of curiosity until then, but I expect you. - She said as she put more juice in her glass.

  Giovanna and I took the short way to school. I'd already told her about the false plans.

  -My mother will be scared. -My mother will be scared. - She said when we were almost there.

  -I know, but you'll understand. -Oh.

  -You sure that's what you want? -Yeah. You've known him for such a short time.

  -I have Giovanna... Even if it doesn't work out, I can live alone later. And there's also the university next year, I'd have to go sooner or later. - I said supporting a fact that wouldn't happen.

  I was forgetting about college. - She said at the exact moment we were entering college.

  The first thing I noticed was Homero waiting for me at the entrance as usual. The summer sun illuminated his face of symmetrical proportions, highlighting the obvious beauty he possessed. As I approached, he kissed my lips discreetly while holding me. A bouquet of tea-colored roses was in his right hand.

  -Happy birthday. -He said delivering the flowers. -I wouldn't let your birthday go by without giving you flowers, but this is not the main gift.

  Homero took out of his pocket a small box wrapped in velvety black paper.

  - What is it?

  -Open.

  A golden metal object filled the entire inner space of the tiny box.

  -It's a compass. -He said, placing it in my right hand.

  -How cool, I never had a compass. -Oh. - I said with my eyes fixed on the object. -Present

  original...

  -For a person who is easily lost is the ideal gift. - The tone was ironic.

  -All right... - I said accepting the joke.

  -You may need it when we're away. -Oh. - He said whispering.

  -But I don't think I know how to use it. -Oh. -I said as we walked down the hall.

  -It's easy, then I'll teach you. Now come on, we're already late.

  The bouquet of roses attracted attention as we entered the room. Foreign language class was about to begin.

  During lunch I thought about how I would lie to Lorena. Homero and I occupied the same corner table next to the wooden window with smoked glass cutouts.

  -Did you ever talk to Lorena about the conversation? -Yes. – Homero asked as if he was reading my thoughts.

  -I spoke before I left... -Oh! She was surprised. She even asked if I was pregnant.

  -Really? -Yes.

  -Yes, but she'll have to understand. -Yes. We have no choice. - I said determi
ned.

  As the afternoon progressed, a tension came over me, preventing me from ordering my thoughts precisely. I was afraid I couldn't sustain the lie or be really convincing.

  The teacher from the last class had missed me by getting me out of school early.

  Homero handed me his helmet noting the tension that troubled my hands.

  -Is she nervous?

  -Very nervous. - I said being transparent.

  -Do you want to quit?

  No, of course not. I'll go with you, I've decided.

  Then calm down and let's go.

  I got on the scooter feeling the old acquaintance cold in my stomach. Homero kept speeding down the asphalt patch that slowly turned into smooth stone pavement. We arrived in less than three minutes.

  When Homero parked, Lorena opened the door demonstrating her anxiety. I feared her reaction, but it had to be done.

  Homero entered the room holding my hand firmly.

  -They feel like children. - She said occupying the smaller sofa.

  I looked at Lorena without being able to say a word. My expression was totally paralyzed.

  -Lorena... – Homero started encouraging me. -Cecilia and I made a decision

  important.

  -She told me earlier... -Oh. And what's the decision?

  -We decided to move in together. - I spoke quickly, before I changed my mind.

  -Living together? -Yeah. - She didn't disguise the amazement.

  -Yes. -I confirmed it by trying not to lower my eyes.

  Just silence for a long moment.

  -Well... I think you're too young yet, but I know I can't go against it, and I don't want that. - Lorena finally said it. -I'm just asking you to think it over, to make sure it's not a rash decision. Cecilia, you know this house will always be yours, you don't have to rush out.

  -I know Lorena, and I thank you for this time with you and Giovanna, I loved it, believe me. Homero and I thought about it a lot and decided we want to have this experience.

  -I'm not worried about avoiding this, but you'll have my consent. I just want you to promise me you'll go to college.

  -Of course, I won't give it up, don't worry. -Oh.

  -And where will you go? -Yeah. - She asked with the expression still disturbed.

  -We're going to Naples... -Oh! The apartment my parents left is empty some time ago... And there are excellent universities.

  -You'll have to call me often.

  -I will, I promise.

  *************************************************************

  On Monday I woke up extremely anxious.

  The graduation would be on Saturday and that meant the trip to the unknown was approaching. My inevitable mood swings occurred more often, being inconvenient consequences of my anxiety.

  I got up and went to the kitchen wishing for a very strong coffee that would calm my nerves and the slight headache that sometimes arose when I woke up. Lorena was organizing a basket of freshly baked cookies.

  - How are you?

  - Anxious... - I answered truthfully.

  - Is the decision still the same?

  -Yes, we're going on Sunday.

  -Don't forget to call me.

  -Don't worry.

  The final exams took place all week long. Although I hadn't participated in most of the classes since I arrived, -I was too busy with strange events - I managed to get good grades, since I had seen a good part of the subject in Naples.

  On Friday night, Lorena demanded my presence in her office before dinner.

  You called me Lorena?

  I did, darling. Sit down here.

  I walked naturally for the carpet graphite and I occupied the armchair that was facing to table.

  -Cecilia, I just wanted to give you some advice, like my sister would if she was alive.

  -Sure, I'm all ears.

  -Wanted, you and Homero will start a life together, and that means you'll become close. -Oh. Do you already know how you will prevent an unwanted pregnancy?

  The question, quite direct, embarrassed me.

  -Yes, we've talked about it, don't worry. - I lied embarrassed, after all Homero and I weren't intimate yet.

  -That relieves me. I want you to know if you have any questions, I'm here to answer them, whatever they are.

  -Okay, Lorena, but at the moment I don't have any questions. -Oh. - I answered with conviction trying to close the matter.

  - But, I really called you, it was to deliver that.

  Lorena took a turquoise blue box from one of the bookshelves that was next to the armchair she was occupying.

  - What is it?

  - A special gift.

  The box was made of textured paper and had a hanging card that said "To Cecilia, with affection". I undid the silver ribbon loop that held the lid and opened it.

  A beautiful black dress was folded delicately. The sleeves and back were

  made of guipir lace and the skirt was godê giving a vintage look to the piece.

  A smile opened on her face.

  - It's for his graduation.

  -It's beautiful Lorena, I don't know how to thank you. -Oh.

  -No need to thank... I want you to be very happy. - She said hugging me. - Remember I'll always be here when you need me.

  -I'll never forget it. - I did.

  That night my anxiety joined the warmth preventing sleep from coming to me. I stayed awake for several hours until I realized that the day was dawning bringing with it the same bright sun of the last few weeks.

  In the morning, I took a quick nap, which softened my tired expression and reduced the swelling around my eyes.

  Homero picked me up at seven o'clock in a flawless navy blue suit. The beautiful dark hair was combed as usual, giving the formal attire a relaxed look. His unnoticeable beauty sometimes left me embarrassed.

  - You look beautiful... - He said as he kissed my forehead.

  Thank you... You don't look so bad yourself. - I jokingly said it made him laugh.

  -Prepared?

  -For graduation?

  - No... For tomorrow...

  -Well... I think so. - I said without being too sure.

  Homero left his motorcycle parked and we got going. The hall chosen for graduation was only a hundred yards from Lorena's house.

  When we turned the corner, it was possible to see several points of light scattered in and out of the place.

  Lilac curtains that hung from the ceiling to the floor were part of the decoration, combined with the pearl petal flowers that were on the tables. A black and white chess linoleum made a dance floor in the center of the place. The loud music made me a little uncomfortable and restless.

  Giane arrived hand in hand with Henri, the young blond considered the best student in our class.

  - Hi Cecilia! -She said closing in, Henri just nodded his head.

  -Hello Giane... Everything is beautiful, I have to congratulate you, after all you were part of the organization committee. - The music prevented me from speaking in a normal tone.

  - It's beautiful, isn't it?

  Yes... We just got here, we haven't picked a table yet... Will you guys join us?

  - Sure... Could it be Henri?

  -No problem. - He answered timidly.

  "It all occurred normally at the graduation party. The music, the buffet, the students, everything that should happen in a celebration of the genre. “

  That's what I'd like to say. But that wasn't the reality that night.

  I was alone at the table while everyone was dancing a seventies rock. Homero was across the hall looking for something to drink.

  I was strangely surprised to see lyrics randomly appearing on one of the white napkins placed on the porcelain plates.

  Words carved in black ink slowly formed threatening sentences.

  Homero arrived at the very moment when Aryon's signature filled the edge of the napkin.

  He took the improvised note in his hands by analyzing the words.

  DEAREST H
OMERO,

  LEAVE THE PREMISES IMMEDIATELY.

  OTHERWISE EVERYONE WILL DIE.

  ARYON.

  Homero's face had been invaded by an expression of panic. In his eyes it was clear that he was calculating something.

  -What now? - I asked him trying to disguise his desperation.

  -Cecilia, we have only one alternative. - He said stunned. It's something dangerous, but I'll have to do it. There's no other way.

  - What will you do?

  -I'll manipulate time. I'll move the time forward and Sunday will come so we can leave soon.

  - Can you do that?

  - It's dangerous. But like I said, we have no choice.

  Suddenly I found myself in bed, waking up at exactly six in the morning. The suitcases - which I wouldn't take to my real destination - were ready in the corner of the room.

  Rafaella's car parked when I was having coffee.

  Lorena looked at me with an expression I couldn't decipher.

  -I was going to take you...

  - I'm sorry Lorena, I think I forgot to tell Homero.

  -All right... - The tone was sad.

  But, I'll call you when I get there, I promise.

  Rafaella knew the whole plan. Instead of driving towards the station, she would come home at high speed.

  Homero was as nervous as I was.

  - Mom, what if we stop at a different place than I planned? - He asked when we were already near his house.

  -My son, your father instructed me little about time travel. You have to concentrate your thinking exactly on what you want, you know that thinking otherwise strongly influences any event. If you think exclusively that you will reach the middle age, you will.

  When we parked, Homero started giving me instructions.

  - Cecilia, we can't take anything, because I'll already take you.

  -Okay. -I've watched for instruction. -Okay.

  -When we arrive, I'll make the necessary contributions. -Okay.

  -All right.

  -Then we'll... Mom, don't forget to call Lorena.

  - Good luck, dear. If you guys fix it, send me some news. - Rafaella asked before we left.

  -I'll see what I can do. Bye mom.

  The feeling that followed was a real paradox I seemed to move at an absurdly fast speed that my mind had never conceived of. At the same time it seemed to be motionless in space.