Chapter Fifty-One: She and Him

Ximendos

My children, awake.

The clouds moved slowing as Ximendos’ voice flowed through the world.

Ximendos

Genesis has arrived. The new world is here. Open your eyes to a new day. The Solace Empire has brought you happiness. And soon the final step will be taken to ensure peace to this world, forever.

19 years ago…….

Ximendos

How is she doing, doctor?

Doctor

She’s doing well. In a few short hours you both will be parents.

Ximendos smiled. He was relieved.

Doctor

I know you were worried she wouldn’t make it but she’s a strong one.

Ximendos

Is the child a boy or a girl?

Doctor

It’s a she.

Ximendos smiled.

Doctor

And a him.

Ximendos could not believe his ears. He looked down on his clipboard.

Doctor

She already gave us a name for one of her children.

He looked up at Ximendos.

Doctor

She said the boy was yours to name.

Ximendos was a bit shocked.

Ximendos

She did?

Doctor

Yup. So any ideas?

Ximendos

Well can I have a few minutes? I didn’t know I was going to have to do this.

Doctor

Sure. I have to go back inside anyways.

Present time…….

Ximendos

Since the dawning of your kind, you’ve been at war. Either because of religion, resources, or other animalistic reasons. Never did you find true peace. Never did you truly want to have it.

Flowers bloomed on grassy plains.

Ximendos

We could not sit and watch anymore. Life is not a movie. Not one for us to sit back and enjoy as children die and innocent burn.

The oceans were still.

Ximendos

You all decided your fate. Which was our intervention.

2 hours later…..

Akasha

Come here, baby.

Ximendos walked up to her bedside. She looked so pale, he thought. So beautiful at the same time though.

Akasha

It’s all done. You have a son and a daughter.

He smiled so big she thought she could die right there.

Akasha

Just what you wanted. Just what I’ve always wanted.

Ximendos

I know, I know.

He put his head against hers.

Akasha

You gave me it. You gave me it all.

Ximendos

All but your brother. I am truly sorry about him.

Akasha kissed his nose.

Akasha

Don’t you worry about that. It wasn’t your fault.

Akasha tried to sit up.

Doctor

No, stay where you are. Don’t want to exert too much energy.

She stood put.

Ximendos

I thought of a name.

Akasha smiled.

Akasha

Let me hear it.

Ximendos

You first. I want to know what you named her.

Akasha

Her name is Iris. My beautiful little Iris.

Ximendos held Akasha’s hand.

Ximendos

His name will be Ilias.

The doctor brought Ilias and Iris in. It was then Ximendos saw the gray eyes his children would forever have.

Present time……

Ximendos

History shows you were incapable of governing yourselves properly. You drew swords on each other. Laid bullets in the heads of your brothers and sisters. Dropped atomic bombs on others. You created races to divide you. And in your ignorance, hopes, and fears you created Gods.

18 years ago……….

Ximendos held Ilias in his arms.

Ximendos

You’re my son.

He touched his finger and the Ilias giggled with joy.

Ximendos

I can make you happy at any moment of your life.

Iris was sleeping in her crib.

Ximendos

You will never know sorrow. Neither you nor your sister. Always happiness.

Present time……..

Ximendos

Even in that you couldn’t decided on one. You created religions and used them to justify atrocities and horrible actions. You went too war for such things.

17 years ago……

Ilias walked up to the couch where his mother sat. He was now two years old. 2 year old Iris sat on the floor playing with her toys.

Akasha

Hello, Ilias.

Ilias

Hi.

He tried to climb up on the couch.

Akasha

Don’t you want to play with your little sister?

Ilias looked back at Iris. He then turned back and again tried to get up on the couch.

Akasha

Let me help you.

She picked him up and sat him down next to her.

Ilias

A ball.

He pointed at the red ball on the floor behind Iris.

Akasha

Yes, a ball. You can’t have it anymore though.

He looked up at her sad.

Akasha

You chose to sit up here. You wanted to be with mommy.

He pointed at the ball.

Akasha

You can’t always get what you want. I won’t hand it all to you.

He looked down.

Ilias

A ball.

The ball began to roll his way. Akasha could not believe her eyes.

Akasha

You’re so young.

Iris looked over at Akasha and then at the ball rolling past her.

Akasha

You are a brilliant child. You are truly my son.

Present time……

Ximendos

You slaughtered for oil and other resources in your march for world dominance. You looked down at your loved ones and said you’d do anything for them while you looked into the face of another and denied them their desire to do anything for the loved one.

16 years ago…….

3 year old Iris sat on her mother’s lap. They were sitting on a bench outside watching Ilias play in the grass.

Iris

Mommy.

Akasha

Yes, baby.

Akasha looked over Iris’ little shoulder at her face.

Iris

Illyis.

Akasha looked at Ilias.

Akasha

Yes, Ilias. He’s your brother.

Iris looked up at Akasha with her finger in her mouth.

Iris

Brober.

Akasha laughed.

Akasha

You sweet little thing.

Iris

Brober.

Ilias got up and walked over to them.

Ilias

Hi, mommy.

He grabbed Akasha’s hand.

Ilias

Mommy, play with me.

Akasha

I can’t. I’m holding your sister.

Ilias

She play too.

Akasha

No, Ilias.

Ilias walked off to go sit in the grass again with his toys.

Akasha

Your brother wants us to play with him.

Iris looked at Ilias with her finger in her mouth still.

Iris

Brober.

Akasha felt a weird feeling on her back. As if she was gently being pushed forward.

Iris

Illyis.

Akasha

Ilias, I said we can’t play with you.

Ilias looked towards his mom.

Ilias

What?

Iris started jumping up and down on Akasha’s lap giggling.

Iris

Illyis, illyis, illyis.

Akasha stood up because of the pushing now. She put Iris at her feet.

Iris

Brober.

Iris walked off towards Ilias to play with him. Ximendos came and stood by Akasha.

Ximendos

What’s wrong?

Akasha

They’re beautiful.

Ximendos put his arms around Akasha from behind.

Ximendos

I know.

Akasha

They’re our children.

Ximendos

Did you doubt that?

He chuckled.

Akasha

No. They just really are.

Present time………

Ximendos

Hypocrisy and hate drove you. Yes, there was love but there was very little of it. You saw humans dying in 3^rd world countries and the only time you thought to lift a finger, the only time you put them in your prayers, was when there was a natural disaster of the sort.

Humans all over the world looked up to hear their God.

Ximendos

But just as with the genocide with the Jews, gypsies, and more, you were a little too late.

9 years ago………

Iris held Ilias’ hand while they walked behind their father in the night.

Ilias

How much longer, daddy?

Ximendos

Not much further. Quit your whining.

It wasn’t him whining, it was Iris. He was only speaking on her behalf.

Iris

I want to go home.

Ximendos

You won’t after we get there.

Ilias

What is it you’re going to show us?

Ximendos

The stars.

A few minutes later they reached the top of a green hill.

Ximendos

We’re here.

Ilias and Iris looked around.

Ilias

It’s just a hill.

Ximendos

Not just any hill, Ilias. It’s my favorite one.

Ilias

Big deal.

Ximendos sat down.

Ximendos

Come sit.

Iris

Okay, daddy.

Iris sat down next to him and got under his left arm.

Ximendos

Will you sit, Ilias?

Ilias

When I feel like it.

Ximendos

Do as you please.

Ximendos lied back with Iris to look up at the stars.

Iris

Why are there lights in the sky?

Ximendos

They’re stars. They’re just burning fires in the sky.

Iris

Can I be a star?

Ilias

You don’t want to be on fire, do you?

Iris

No, but I want to be as pretty as them.

Ximendos

I think you’re far more beautiful than they will ever be.

Iris hugged her daddy.

Ilias

I don’t want to be a star. I want to bring them down from the sky.

Ximendos

Why would you want to do such a thing?

Ilias walked over and sat by them.

Ilias

Because they should be down here with us. There shouldn’t be anything or anyone above us. Everything should be equal.

Ximendos

You think so?

Ilias

We’re all the same, dad. We’re all just living.

Ximendos

You have a lot to learn.

Ilias lied back next to Iris.

Ximendos

Humans used to think the stars were some kind of heaven. A place where their lost loved ones used to watch over them.

Iris

That’s sweet.

Ilias put his arm up and in his hand he acted as if he was holding a star.

Ilias

I wish I could touch them though.

Iris

Your hand would be on fire!

Ilias

They won’t hurt me. Nothing can.

Ximendos

Not while I’m around.

Ilias

What happens when you’re not?

Ximendos

Well I will train you both soon so you can protect yourselves.

Ximendos turned on his side and put his right arm over both of them.

Ximendos

Ilias, I need you to promise me something.

Ilias looked over at his dad. He now wasn’t paying too much attention to the stars.

Ilias

Yeah?

Ximendos

I want you to promise me you’ll always protect your sister.

Iris closed her eyes on her father’s chest.

Ximendos

There will be times that your mother and I won’t be around to stop pain from coming to you both. In the event that we’re gone, you must protect your sister. You must put her above even yourself. I know you said that no one should be above someone, but that’s not entirely true. People we love should be above us. Always and forever.

Ilias

I promise, dad. I would never let anything happen to my little sister.

Ximendos held them both in his arms.

Ximendos

I’ve done a lot in my life. I probably will do more in the future. But in retrospect, it was all worth it. Just to feel your little hearts in my hands when you were born. That was enough to destroy any regret I ever had.

Ilias

Dad, are you sad?

Ximendos

Sometimes.

Ilias

Don’t be sad dad.

Ximendos

Were it so easy.

Ilias held his dad’s hand.

Ilias

You have us.

Ximendos

I do. I really do. And I love you both very much.

Iris fell asleep.

Ilias

We love you too dad. Just don’t be sad.

Ximendos

I’ll try.

Ilias smiled. The moon shined in his grey eyes.

Ximendos

Now go to sleep.

They slept under the stars. They slept in times of peace. Ximendos felt it for the first time since his mother held him in her arms. He knew he found his heart again.

Present time……

Ximendos

For such evolved creatures, you allowed yourself to be enslaved by money and things that would only lead to further dividing yourself. You forgot that you were all in this together. Let it slip your mind that this life is short and fragile. You were always expecting a hand to help you up while you kept yours crossed to others who needed it.

8 years ago

Ilias sat in the grass with Iris.

Iris

Why does the world hurt, brother?

Ilias

So many reasons. It would be wrong to try and pick one.

Iris

I wish it didn’t. I wish there was some way to make everyone happy.

Ilias

There isn’t. Not from what I know. If you think about it, it doesn’t even seem like they really want to be happy.

Iris crossed her legs.

Iris

I’m glad our training is over. Now we can relax.

Ilias

I as well. Dad pushed us really hard. He wants so much from us.

Iris

I suppose it’s out of love. He has good intentions.

Ilias

I agree. He is just so dedicated.

Iris

And he’s trying to instill that in us.

Ilias

Dedication. It can really be someone’s downfall.

Iris

Oh well.

She waved her hair around.

Iris

Do you think it would be possible to travel?

Ilias

Where would you want to travel?

Iris

I don’t know. Maybe Europe?

Ilias

I don’t think so. Mom isn’t too fond of going anywhere. She says we’re to keep to ourselves.

Iris

I know. I just wish though. One day I’d like to see the whole world.

Ilias laughed.

Iris

Why are you laughing?

Ilias

That’s a silly dream.

Iris

Why is that? The world is beautiful. I’d like to see it before the humans destroy it.

Ilias

I’ll show you it one day.

Present time………

Ximendos

You’ve done more damage to this planet then any other earthling. You’ve denied it and you’ve continued with your normal ways so you wouldn’t have to change your way of living. Change is hard, I should know. But at what expense would you stay the same? The life of this planet? The life of your kind? It has become rather disgusting.

5 years ago……

Iris held a baby pig in her hands while Ilias played with a white husky dog.

Iris

What did you name him?

Ilias

The dog?

Iris

Yes, the dog.

Ilias

Nothing. He doesn’t have a name.

Iris

Why is that?

Ilias

Well he can’t choose it so I thought it would be rude to give him a name. It’s not like he has given me a name.

Iris set the little pig down.

Iris

Well now I feel bad for naming her Maple.

Ilias laughed.

Ilias

It’s okay. It’s not like you’re going to eat it.

Iris felt repulsed.

Iris

I can’t believe people actually eat these animals.

The dog licked Ilias’ face.

Ilias

They don’t understand they’re animals as well. They don’t understand that they have the brain power to deny the murdering of these defenseless creatures.

Iris

It’s pathetic. They’d rather a delicious meal than knowing they let these beautiful creatures breathe.

Iris felt her eyes watering up.

Iris

If only there was a way to stop it.

Ilias stood up straight.

Ilias

There isn’t now. But there will be. One day humans won’t eat animals. One day they’ll treat them as if they’re friend. For now I need you to keep control of your emotions. Remember what dad said.

Iris

Keep control, I know.

Ilias

That’s better.

He hugged her.

Ilias

You can only cry when I cry.

They laughed.

Present time…………

Ximendos

You’ve not only destroyed your own kind, you’ve also slaughtered your fellow earthlings. Yet you consider yourselves the masters of this planet? Who is the lesser beast? The lion who cannot tell themselves they don’t need to kill or the human who can? The answer is you. You’ve turned these defenseless animals into a luxury for your tongues. And you never gave it a second thought. You put an animal to sleep when it hurt your kind but when did you ever volunteer yourself to be executed when you killed theirs? Never. Well it all ends here.

4 years ago……..

Akasha and Velis stood before Ilias and Iris.

Ilias

Hello Velis, long time it has been.

Velis

Hello kids!

Iris smiled.

Akasha

We have a surprise for you.

Velis stepped aside to reveal a boy behind her. He was the same size as Ilias. He had short black hair and blue eyes.

Velis

This is Cameron.

Akasha

Your new brother.

Velis stood behind Cameron and pushed him forward.

Velis

Don’t be shy, Cameron.

Ilias looked at Cameron and then lifted his hand.

Ilias

My name is Ilias.

Cameron lifted his hand and shook it.

Cameron

I’m Cameron.

Iris

I’m Iris.

They shook hands too.

Akasha

Velis and I have things to do. We will check in on you later.

They left the room.

Ilias

How old are you, Cameron?

Cameron

I’m fifteen.

Ilias

That is the age we are.

Cameron smiled.

Iris

Where did you come from?

She said excited.

Cameron

A burning fire.

Ilias

That’s a rather odd place to have come from.

Cameron

My house blew up. My brother and mom died in it.

Iris

That’s horrible. How did it happen?

Cameron

I made it happen. I left the gas on and my mom turned on a fire.

Ilias

That is terrible.

Cameron

If you guys don’t mind, I’d like to sit down and think.

Ilias

Feel free to do so.

Ilias walked towards the exit.

Ilias

We’ll speak with you later, brother.

Cameron

Don’t call me that.

Ilias

Excuse me?

Cameron

Brother. I had a brother. I don’t want another one. Especially one that was chosen for me.

Ilias

Very well.

He left.

Iris

I’m sorry about that. But I’ll leave you to yourself as well, Cameron. It was nice meeting you.

Cameron

Thanks. It was nice meeting you too.

She smiled and walked away. She sat in the other room and listened to his thoughts.

Present time………..

Ximendos

It’s all over now. The time you had to save yourselves, to change everything, is gone. But don’t let your hearts be troubled, change has come. You’re now in a new world. One where happiness and peace will reign forever.

3 year ago…….

Ilias

When the time comes, we must act. We must follow father in all that he asks of us.

Iris

It will be done. I see no other way.

Ilias

That perfect world we’ve always wished for will be ours.

Iris

We’ll all be happy. The world will be happy.

Ilias

Yes we will.

Iris

Promise it will all work out?

Ilias

I promise, Iris. We’ll all be happy and I will never leave you.

Ximendos and Akasha walked into Ilias and Iris’ bedroom.

Ximendos

We just wanted to tell you two good night.

Ilias

Goodnight.

Iris

Pleasant dreams.

Akasha kissed them both on their foreheads.

Akasha

Goodnight, babies.

Present time………..

Ximendos

I promise you that you will love the world the Solace Empire has given you.

He stood in the palace with Akasha and Amya standing around him.

Ximendos

This is your new world.

The sun was rising.

Ximendos

And soon you will all be new humans.

Chapter Fifty: Genesis

Ilias
Gemma, it’s almost time.
He grabbed her hands.
Ilias
After it is done I want you to help me to my bedroom. I will be very weak after.
Gemma nodded.
Ilias
Are you okay?
Gemma
Yes. Just worried is all.
Ilias kissed her cheek.
Ilias
There is no reason to be. The time for a new world has come.
Gemma half smiled.
Ilias
After this is all done and I’ve regained my strength I will take you somewhere special to me.
Gemma
Special?
She said interested.
Ilias
Yes, very. Until then you will have to wait.
Gemma
I can do that.
He let go of her hand.
Ilias
We have ten minutes. It’s time I go.
He kissed her on the lips.
Ilias
I will see you soon, beautiful.
She smiled and he walked away. As he left she couldn’t help herself from feeling sad. She knew he’d be okay but it wasn’t him she was worried about. It was Arkain.

Merdos
Stay here. We will help Suri.
Conor looked back to see a white tiger racing towards Suri.
Suri
Get the hell off!
Suri kicked and pushed them but there were too many. Suri could not take on ten Orthaks. And then two were tackled by the white tiger and Orthak screamed and they all jumped backwards from the Tiger and Suri.
Suri
Masato!
The tiger transformed into a tall man with long white hair in a ponytail.
Masato
Orthak, you monster. How dare you attack a youngling.
Orthak screamed.
Masato
I cannot forgive you for this.
Merdos appeared as a man with long orange hair.
Merdos
This is where you die, Orthak.
Orthak screamed again.
Suri
We have to go!
Orthak began to scream so loud everyone covered their ears. It was then they all saw it happen. What was once ten Orthaks now became a hundred.
Conor
Oh shit.
Emmylou
This can’t be good.
Masato stepped forward.
Masato
Merdos, you cover me. I am his most formidable opponent in the white coats.
Suri
Why is that?
Masato
As you know, my hands absorb things. He knows very well what they’ll do to him.
Merdos smiled.
Merdos
Suri, you will cover me. Together we can defeat him.
Masato
Or at least get him to run home to, X-man.
They charged the hundreds of Orthak.

Amya opened the door to Akasha’s room.
Akasha
May I help you?
Amya
I thought you might need an ear.
Akasha looked up at her from her bed.
Akasha
You were wrong. I’d like to be alone.
Amya
I once told you something similar to that. You didn’t leave me alone though. It would be disrespectful to myself if I didn’t show you the same persistence.
Amya walked in. Akasha almost laughed.
Amya
What’s the matter?
Akasha
You know the answer. My brother is alive. My sweet little Simon is alive. I thought you killed him.
Amya
I thought we did as well. It would seem my brother has some secrets still up his sleeves.
Akasha
It would seem. I just don’t know what to do. I got into this many years ago simply because I wanted a new life, I wanted Ximendos, and I wanted to be with my brother. I’ve been under the illusion that my brother has been dead for so long while he hasn’t been. I could have been looking for him. I could have saved him. I never abandoned him. No, Ximendos forced me to leave because he said he was dead. I would never leave little Simon like that. Never.
Amya smacked Akasha.
Amya
Pull yourself together.
Akasha stared at the wall for a moment before she spoke.
Akasha
If he has joined their side, he must believe I abandoned him. He must want to kill me.
A tear began to fall down her face. Amya wiped it and sat next to her.
Amya
If it means anything to you, my daughter wants to kill me also. You aren’t the only one who is dealing with a loved one trying to kill them.
She hugged Akasha.
Amya
I’ve hated you for so long. So long I wanted nothing more than to kill you myself. Yet now I do not feel the same way. You are a lot like me. We have the same struggles and we will get through them. Trust me Akasha, we will get through them.
Akasha smiled.
Akasha
You know, I always wanted to kill too.
They laughed.
Amya
The time will come when we have to face our loved ones. Let us just hope words will prevail rather than swords.
Akasha nodded.

Cameron
He, he said that in my dream.
Zuma and Soren kept them both at the same level.
Arkain
Cameron, it wasn’t a dream.
Cameron
What are you saying?
Arkain
I was the boy in the cell.


Nicholas knocked on Anna’s door.
Anna
Come in.
Nicholas opened it.
Anna
Oh, it’s you.
Nicholas
I’m sorry for coming in so late at night but I wanted to apologize.
Anna
Apology accepted.
Nicholas
But I didn’t apologize yet.
Anna
But you will. So why not skipped the words.
Nicholas
Anna, are you okay?
Anna put her pillow down.
Anna
Okay? Just what is okay nowadays? It’s obviously not normal, Mr. President. I’ve been trapped down here with the last living free humans for months.
She walked around her bed.
Anna
Then after so long we find the hope we need. When it gets here we’re told that we’re going to wait. Wait for them to attack. Those monsters asked us to-
Nicholas
They’re not monster.
Anna
Yes they are.
She walked up to Nicholas.
Anna
They’re just on our side. Wait, you know what, they aren’t even on our side. They’re on their own. Secretly plotting on how the oncoming oblivion will benefit them. Well you know Mr. Romberg, I don’t care.
Nicholas
You’re being unreasonable, Molly.
Anna
Am I? Think about it for a second.
She put her hand on his shoulder.
Anna
How else am I suppose to be? The end of the world of humans is coming. The end of us thinking and doing as we please is here. Soon it will come. After that we will be killed in the night as well. All that if we wait here.
Nicholas
Anna, you need to rest.
Anna
No, rest is the last thing I need. What I need is my Gear unit, a gun, and God.
Nicholas grabbed the door knob.
Nicholas
If that is so, I don’t know what to tell you.
He opened the door.
Nicholas
What I will say though, is you’ve lost your mind. You’ve allowed your desperation to twist your mind into madness. When we humans feel powerless we push the blames on others and act like we could have done something. In truth, Molly, we can’t do anything. Yes, maybe the time of human has ended. Maybe it ends tomorrow. But what can we do? What can we do against such powerful beings? We’ve fallen to the bottom of the chain and they’ve defeated us. There isn’t much else to say nor do. We just have to accept it. Stop turning hope, fears, and desires, into false truths to avoid reality. It will never be. All we can do is accept things as they are and continue on after they happened the best we can.
He began to shut the door.
Anna
You were never the president these people needed. They needed one ready to fight.
Nicholas
No, actually you are wrong. They needed one ready to lead them into the most reasonable path in order to survive. Were it up to you they would all be dead now.
He looked her straight in the face. For a second he thought she was going to break down.
Nicholas
I retract my apology. You’ve come to a position that I cannot get you down from. They say you can’t reason a person away from a place they didn’t get to with reason in the first place, they were correct after all.
He shut the door. Anna pushed the small table next to her bed over.

Cameron
You were the boy in the cell?
Arkain
Yes. And so were you.
Cameron
Zuma, take us to the ground.
Zuma dived down followed by Soren. Once the reached Cameron jumped off and met Arkain by Soren. Cameron grabbed him, turned him around, and hugged him.

Syn
Do you feel that?
Fallen
Yes I do. It is Orthak.
Syn
Should we go to his power?
Fallen
No, I don’t think so. Why waste our time?
Syn
You might be right. The only thing is, and we both know this, Ximendos only uses Orthak on special occasions.
Fallen rolled over on his side.
Fallen
While that’s true, I don’t care. Let Ximendos have whatever he’s after right now. It means nothing to do. As of right now I have both of the pieces I need to the puzzle.
Syn
Cameron and Arkain?
Fallen
Of course.
Pathion rubbed Fallen behind his ear.
Pathion
You are such a wise little fox.
Fallen laughed.
Fallen
Not really. I’m just playing the game very well. Better than most, to be honest.
Pathion
Well I’m glad you’re not playing against us.
Pathion laughed.
Fallen
I’m more pleased you are on my side.
Syn
Well you made an offer I couldn’t refuse.
Pathion
Akasha’s head.
Fallen
I’d say it’s a fair trade.
Syn
A very fair one indeed.
Fallen
Now that Arkain has his sword and he has been trained by you we don’t really have to worry about him. We just have to wait until Ximendos makes his move. After that we will go in for Ilias.
Syn
Ilias is the key, correct?
Fallen
Yes, yes he is. Once we’ve captured Ilias Darby will twist him to our will. After that we will dispose of Ximendos, Akasha, and Iris.
Syn
What of the white coats?
Fallen
We don’t have to worry about them. Believe it or not they’re on the same page I am. It took a lot of talking to them in the past but I’ve convinced them to go along with the same plan. They’re our cavalry.
Pathion
As if we need it.
Fallen
We won’t. But it’s nice to have it. We both have the same goal. The changing of the world, of humans, and then the removal of the Gods.
Pathion
I love it.
Syn looked down at Pathion.
Pathion
But I love you more, of course.
Syn smiled.
Fallen
All we’re doing is waiting for the first move.


Emmylou
You stay here Ian. Conor and I are going to go get Suri.
Ian
I’m scared.
Conor
Don’t be little guy. If you stay here you’ll be alright.
Ian
Okay. Just come back real fast.
Emmylou
I will.
She kissed him on the cheek.
Emmylou
Let’s go.
The pulled out their handguns and went forward towards the fight. Orthak was hit by three bullets and two missed him. He screamed and turned towards Conor and Emmylou running towards him. He was going to run forward but Masato jumped in the way to stop him.
Masato
It ends here, Orthak.
Orthak turned into Merdos.
Orthak
Is it, Masato?
He laughed.


Iris
Ready?
Ilias
Of course.
Iris and Ilias walked up to where Ximendos stood.
Ximendos
It is time.
Ximendos turned around. Merdos stood behind him at a distance.
Ximendos
Orthak, you made it in time.
Merdos
I did. I’ve also brought a gift for you.
He moved to the side an exposed Suri on the floor.
Ximendos
I knew you’d come through on it.
Merdos
I never fail.
Ilias
How did this happen?
Merdos
I entered her body and then made a copy of her. Then Merdos and Masato appeared. They weren’t aware that I switched out her body. I must return to kill Merdos and Masato.
Iris
Don’t take too long. You don’t want to miss this.
Merdos
That’s fine. I get much more pleasure in getting my own kills. I’m off now.
He looked down at Suri who began to move.
Merdos
Oh look, she’s awake.
He disappeared.


Cameron let go of Arkain.
Arkain
What was that for?
Cameron
You did it. It was you.
Arkain
It was nothing.
Cameron
Don’t say that. It was everything to me. You saved my life.
Arkain
It’s what friends do.
Cameron felt it behind his eyes and at the back of his throat. That word, its meaning.
Arkain
We’re friends.
Cameron, after fighting it for a moment, let it happen.
Arkain
Are you crying?

Suri fell to the ground.
Masato
Suri!
Merdos
I’ll go to her.
Masato
You fear me.
Merdos helped Suri up.


Ximendos bent down so Suri could see his face.
Ximendos
So you are Suri. Daughter of Hayden and Arkain’s secret lover.
He stood up straight again.
Ximendos
This is marvelous. I can’t think of a way this could get any better.
Suri struggled but she was tied together by Orthak’s energy.
Ximendos
Struggle all you want but it won’t do you any good. Relax a bit.
He motioned to Iris. Suri flew up into a standing position.
Ximendos
You’ve just bought the best seat in the house.
He put a seat under her and Iris lowered her into it.
Ximendos
The show is about to begin also. You made it just in time.
Ximendos clapped his hands together.
Ximendos
Thank goodness Orthak was kind enough to bring you in time. Don’t you think?
Suri couldn’t say anything.
Ximendos
Oh that’s alright. I’ll take your silence as excitement.

Amya and Akasha walked out into the moon light where Ximendos and Suri sat.
Akasha
And whom might this be?
Ximendos
You’ve both made it just in time. This is Suri.
Amya and Akasha took the seats beside Ximendos.
Ximendos
Orthak dropped her off for the show.
Akasha
How touching.
Iris
We’re ready.
Ilias
If you are, father.
Ximendos
Proceed. Start the Cleansing Operation. Bring in the new genesis.
Ilias and Iris were now in the center of the entire area the empire called their base.


Cameron
Yes, and I can’t help it.
Arkain laughed.
Cameron
Why are you laughing?
Arkain
I think it’s great. It’s not like you’re crying because you are a crybaby.
Cameron wiped his eyes.
Cameron
If it wasn’t for you Arkain, all this wouldn’t be happening. If it wasn’t for you I’d still be the old me.
Arkain
Just forget it bro. You aren’t the old you anymore, and that’s what matters.
He grabbed Cameron by the shoulders.
Arkain
Now you can show the world you really are a good person. Now you can show me you really are a hero.
Cameron
I can do that. I will do that.
Cameron felt it. Cameron felt as if he finally had something.
Arkain
You’ll have me to help you. I’m your friend after all. Your 2nd friend, you said.
They laughed.
Cameron
I appreciate you, Arkain.
Arkain
I know, man. I know. I feel the same way. There was no fate, no reason, no anything that brought us together. Things just happened. We changed each other.
Cameron
We did.
Arkain
That’s all that matters.
Cameron
Thank you Arkain. For saving my life. For teaching me just how to save someone.
Arkain
No problem. It was nothing. Like I said, it’s what friends do.
Cameron felt like releasing another wave of tears but he held them in. The word friend used to mean so little to him. Now it meant more than it ever did. Cameron finally had his 2nd real friend. He found some happiness. All he wanted to do was find his brother and his 1st friend and his life might be normal again.


Iris and Ilias both released their energy into their bodies.
Ilias
I think now is the best time to tell you.
Iris
I can’t wait until after.
Ilias
No. It’s the best time because you can’t hit me and you can’t go back from doing this.
The world began to shake.
Iris
If that is so, tell me. At least before I lost consciousness.
Ilias
I love Gemma.
Iris
Is that it? I thought at least this would have been something surprising. I knew you fell hard for her. It was obvious.

Fallen jumped in between Cameron and Arkain.
Fallen
Sorry to interrupt your bromance, but we have trouble.
Everyone felt the ground begin to shake. The entire New Order appeared.
Velis
So this is it? It’s coming?
Fallen
Yes.
Darby
My barriers are up. We will be fine.
Malic
How can I trust you?
Velis smacked him.
Velis
Knock it off, moron.
Vesper
I also set up a barrier if that means anything to you, Malic.
Malic smiled.
Tusa
This is so fun!
Pathion
Tell me about it.
Cameron
And so it begins.
Arkain
Is it going to hurt?
Syn
Not at all. You’re safe with us, little one.
Fallen
Brace for impact.

Hayden and Amros ran into the meeting room where Nicholas was.
Hayden
The time has come.
Nicholas sat at his desk.
Nicholas
So soon?
Amros
I’m afraid so.
The entire base was shaking so hard Nicholas wondered if it would hold.
Nicholas
Are we going to be alright?
Amros
Yes. But the rest of the world won’t be.
Roselyn and Grey entered the room.
Roselyn
That must be Ximendos.
Amros
It is.
Grey
We’ll be okay though. We have Hayden’s power to keep us safe.
They all stood in the base’s meeting room as they waited for the passing of the old world.

Masato
Damn!
He said as the ground began to shake.
Merdos
What do we do?
Masato
Grab the kids.
Merdos grabbed Conor and Emmylou.
Masato
I’ll take care of Orthak. Release the orb.
Merdos
But you will die!
Masato
A price I’ll have to take.
Orthak
There is no need.
Masato turned to Orthak.
Orthak
You’ve already lost.
Suri hit Masato in the face and he flew into Merdos who caught him.
Merdos
Suri! What are you doing?
Suri turned into Orthak. The Orthak that took the appearance of Merdos spoke.
Orthak
If it were really Suri he wouldn’t have his head anymore.
The Orthak that was Suri walked into the Merdos Orthak’s body.
Orthak
The girl is ours. You White Coats can’t do anything right. Now die!
Orthak attacked. From his back shot four sharp black spears. Merdos threw the orb into the ground. Orthak’s spikes were blocked by a giant blue barrier that was forming.
Emmylou
What’s happening?
Merdos
It’s a barrier to protect us from what’s coming.
Conor
What’s coming?
Merdos
Death.
Emmylou
Wait! My brother is out there.
Merdos
We can’t leave the barrier.
The barrier began to expand.
Emmylou
I need to get my brother.
Merdos
You can’t. I’m sorry girl, but you can’t. Those who enter this bubble do not leave it.
Masato pulled himself together.
Emmylou
So I have to stay here while my brother dies out there?
Masato and Merdos both said yes to her.
Emmylou
Let me out!
Conor grabbed her arm.
Emmylou
I won’t stay in here. I would rather die too.
She began to cry.
Conor
Emmylou, you can’t.
Emmylou
Let me out! I can’t fucking stay in here!
She hit the blue barrier but it only moved like water.
Emmylou
My brother is out there!
Merdos and Masato looked at each other for fear of looking into her wet eyes.
Emmylou
You can’t do this to me.
She fell to her knees and Conor caught her.
Emmylou
He’s out there.
She was now crying harder than she could ever remember.
Emmylou
He’s going to die. You killed him. I killed him.
She cried into Conor’s shoulder.
Emmylou
Let me out. Let me out.

The ground shook harder than ever. The entire world felt the quake.
Ilias
Iris, I’m going to marry her.
They both began to glow bright until they were no longer human bodies but floating lights of energy. Iris’s energy pulled apart the ground between the world and the palace and it began to rise up to the sky. And then from Ilias came two waves of energy that expanded and flew forward in a circle. They began to cover the earth. Anything above the ground disappeared at the touch of the wall of energy. Everything not directly under the earth’s soil was obliterated. Nothing stood that Ilias did not want to stand. No humans who were not under Ilias’ control survived.

Adam called for his wife who stood down the hill.
Adam
Eve!
Eve ran up the hill to him.
Eve
I am here.
They held each other as the ground shook.
Eve
Is this it?
Adam
I don’t know, my darling.
Their little house stood above the world on a high mountain. They saw it. A white wall of energy coming fast towards them that they could not see past.
Eve
I’m afraid.
Adam
Me too.
They held each other closely. The wall hit them and left the mountain clear of their existence. This was the new world. This is genesis.