Agent in the Dark

As unbelievable as it all sounded Chantry wasn't one to lie and his passion was testimony enough, as to the truth of what he spoke of. I couldn't believe it in terms of one thing though. I gazed at Chantry incredulously and then at those around the room, I began to laugh harder than I had in years. Oh this was rich!

Chantry looked displeased at my outburst of mirth and eventually I quieted down into post mirth, still half shaking with laughter. I sat up wiping the tears from my eyes and met Chantry's now angry gaze.

"The world needs saving so you come to me?" I said pointing to myself mockingly.

"Regrettably yes." Chantry responded tightlipped.

My mirth fell away in an instance, as I leaned closer to Chantry, "The world can go to hell for all I care Chantry! I have what I need. The world never did anything for me so why should I do anything for it?"

The last part hadn't really been a question, but more of a statement of how little I cared for the plight for survival that mankind now found itself mired in.

"I told you this was a waste of time Chantry!" Flint said speaking up harshly for the first time.

I turned to him, "So sorry to disappoint you big brother, but I simply couldn't care less about whatever good objectives you Agency hacks are up to now. Speaking of now, I think it's about time you got off my island!"

Flint started for the door, but stopped at a gesture from Chantry.

"It has become clear that you won't help us for any inducement of honor or nationalistic pride. What then might I ask would be something of value to which we might purchase your loyalties for the mission I have in mind?" Chantry asked not giving anything away.

I sat back in my chair looking him over contemplatively.

"Well you know Chantry I'm not quite sure as to what could significantly motivate me to joining the side of pure moral authority, but give me a few days to think about it, as I enjoy your pretty little agent over there and I should be able to come up with an answer for you."

Chantry just smiled at my hedonistic request, but I heard the girl gasp and my brother's teeth grind some more.

"You are a disgrace on our parents name John!" Flint exclaimed angrily.

"I guess I'll have to take your word on that James, as I can't remember them enough to say anything to the contrary."

For just one moment the anger in Flint's eyes dimmed, but then it was back in full force, "And to think mother named you for John the Baptist!"