Chapter Fifty-Four: Free

Amros
Anna has taken a fleet to confront the Empire?
Nicholas
I believe so.
Hayden
Humans and their arrogance.
Nicholas looked down.
Hayden
What will we do, Amros?
Amros thought for a second. Supriya and Kegan both looked at him waiting for a reply.
Amros
We do nothing.
Supriya
That’s it?
Amros turned to her.
Amros
What can we do? We have to remain here. We can’t waste any more men. As of now she’s probably almost there. We wouldn’t even make it in time.
Hayden
I’ll go.
Amros
No, you won’t. We can’t risk losing you this early in this war.
Hayden agreed.
Nicholas
We have to do something.
Kegan
Not really. We can just let it happen. I have to agree with Amros on this.
Supriya
Shut up. Amros, this is madness. You can’t just stand by and wait for more humans to die.
Kegan
But they’re not our responsibility, Sup.
Supriya
That doesn’t matter. We have to do something.
Hayden
The woman left without proper documentation. She is doing this on her own will. We aren’t obligated to do anything.
Nicholas
There must be some way.
Amros
If you think of something in the next minute, let me know.
Supriya
I’ll go.
Amros turned around quickly.
Amros
No you won’t.
Supriya
You need someone that can get there quickly. That’s me.
Kegan
And me.
Supriya
So that means logically we are the best team to go. You have no other choice. Unless you want to just sit around here while they die.
Amros stood quiet.
Hayden
It would be best, Amros.
He sounded angry now.
Amros
Go, now. Before I change my mind.
Kegan
Right on!
They disappeared.
Nicholas
Hopefully they make it in time.
Hayden
Have faith in those two.
Amros
They are the perfect two for the job.

Anna flew ascended into the sky in a white and yellow Gears unit.
Anna
All units prepare for battle.
On her radar it showed they were twenty miles away from the giant piece of land in the sky.
Anna
Listen here soldiers, I am with you. You are with me.
All one hundred soldiers were listening carefully.
Anna
We are going to enter battle right now with what might be the greatest threat our kind has ever faced. We cannot be afraid. That is what they want. They want us to run from their power. To give up all we’ve ever owned and loved. For what? So we can live in darkness for the rest of our lives? I think not. The time has come, my brothers and sisters when we must fight.
They were now 15 miles away.
Anna
You’ve all probably have lost your families like I have. Lost them to these monsters. That should be reason in itself to draw arms against these foul beings. They do not know. They do not know that God is on our side. They said it themselves. They said that God is dead. They were wrong.
10 miles away.
Anna
God is not dead. God will always live. Even if we die here, he will live. He will guide the next humans that come after us to victory if we fail here. He knows we will prevail in the end.
5 miles away.
Anna
Let your faith guide you, my fellow believers. Let your swords and bullets be the power of God they will witness before darkness takes them to their hell.
4 miles away.
Anna
Let them come. You will not run. You will fight.
3 miles away.
Anna
We are almost there, my brothers and sisters. Draw your swords.
Each Gear unit drew a giant sword in one hand with a gun in the other.
Anna
God will guide you. Through faith not sight. God is with us. God is us.
2 miles away.
Anna
We shall fight to the death! We shall meet God today or we shall live to fight another day.
1 mile away.
Anna
Fire!

Ximendos stood with Akasha in a room filled with giant TV screens and ten humans.
Ximendos
Fire at will.
General Gunner
Fire at will.
Cannons on the edges of the giant mass of land began to fire towards Anna and her men.
Anna
Evasive maneuvers.
They began to dodge each blast.
Anna
Fire at the cannons!
They destroyed the cannons.
Anna
Make way for the ground. Once we’re there fire at anything that moves.
Ximendos stood looking at the screen.
Ximendos
I’m not impressed.
Gunner
My lord, they have made it passed the cannons.
Ximendos
As I’ve seen. Prepare for battle. I want every Gear unit we have on base taking them on.
Gunner
My lord, we are outnumbered.
Akasha
What do you mean outnumbered?
Gunner
When we rose into the sky you did not make proper arrangements to bring all of our units. Ninety-nine percent of them are still on the ground below us.
Ximendos
Idiots.
He turned towards the door.
Gunner
We have seventy units available for battle.
Akasha
Get them out there!
Gunner
Yes, my lady.
Ximendos walked towards the door.
Ximendos
The white Gear is their leader. I want that one taken alive.
Gunner
Yes, my lord. I will try and make those arrangements.
Ximendos
No need to do that. I am going out there myself.
Akasha smiled.
Akasha
May I come along?
Ximendos
No. See that Iris is protected at all cost.
Akasha ran out.
Ximendos
If it’s a pathetic battle for pride they want, well I guess I shall give it to them.
He left the room.
Gunner
Prepare all units for battle. Do not let them past the east quad.
The units prepared for battle.

Anna
Find cover!
Gun fire began to fly their way from the enemy Gear units.
Anna
We don’t know how many enemies we have. How many casualties so far 2nd in command?
2nd
We’ve lost 3 units.
Anna
That’s less than I anticipated.
2nd
It seems like their defenses were not set up.
Anna
My guess exactly. They haven’t had time to do so. Perfect. Prepare to move forward.
2nd
Roger that.


Emmylou
Do you know where we’re going exactly?
Merdos
We’re heading towards Washington DC.
Conor
That makes sense.
They rode fast towards their destination.


Gunner
We’ve lost twelve units already. Lord Ximendos will not be happy about this.
He pushed the red button on the speaker.
Gunner
They are breaking through the left side. Hold them!
Anna and her men were winning.
Anna
We’ve only lost nine units.
Her Gear shot down an enemy soldier.
2nd
Mrs. Carter, watch out!
Anna ducked and destroyed the enemy unit.
Anna
We have to continue to push forward!
They began their second push forward. Gear after Gear fought until one fell.

Pathion
I want to fight already.
Pathion lied on the floor while Syn sat on a rock.
Syn
Patience, my love. You will soon.
Pathion
Good. We’ve been locked up for far too long.
Darby
My lord, are you content with the plan of action Fallen has created for us?
Syn
I am, Darby. I know you have the groups best interest at heart so I must ask, are you?
Darby
I am.
Syn
Good, good. Fallen chose you to be his partner in the mission because he feels that besides us two, you are the strongest of the group. One capable of helping him defeat Ximendos.
Darby
I am flattered.
Pathion
You should be. I’d like to fight Ximendos.
Syn
Brute strength alone cannot defeat Ximendos. That is why Fallen chose Darby. He has gifts.
Pathion
Gifts are for Christmas time. I have the power. I’d crush Ximendos.
Syn
Oh my arrogant love.
Syn stepped on Pathion’s chest with a big smile.
Syn
The only one we will be killing is Akasha. Everyone else is left for the others.
Darby
The chances for success are high. If all goes as planned they will all be dead.
Syn
That is the plan.
Darby
Ximendos has never faced me before. I am anxious to do battle with him.
Syn
As you should be. My brother-in-law is a God among humans.
Pathion
Get off of me.
He took Syn’s foot off of his chest.
Pathion
Just make sure you kill him fast. If you both recall, he apparently knows how to kill immortals.
Darby
A power he never exposed to us.
Pathion
It could have been a bluff.
Syn
Doubtful. Ximendos was never one to tell lies.
Darby
I’m sure he was serious. The problem is that will be his trump card. He will use that as a way to get rid of us once he feels the time is right.
Syn
Well then we must prepare for the unknown.


Ilias
What’s going on?
Akasha stood at the entrance to Gemma’s room.
Akasha
We’re under attack. A fleet of Gears have landed.
Ilias
And our defenses?
Akasha
Over taken. Apparently we left all our Gears units on the ground.
Ilias
That is ridiculous.
Akasha
But true. After this we must retrieve more units.
Gemma
We’ll be okay, right?
Akasha almost laughed.
Akasha
Of course. Ximendos is going to take the place of all those missing Gears.
Ilias
Father?
Akasha
Yes. He’s upset about the while thing. I must return to Iris.
She left.
Ilias
Damn those humans.

Anna
How many enemies do you see left?
#2
There are twenty three more enemy units.
Anna fired more rounds forward.
Anna
Good. And we’re at sixty-four.
#2
What’s that?
They both looked down the path of chaos to see a man dressed in black walking forward to all the battle.
Anna
It looks like a man. What could he possibly be doing?
#2
Is that, Ximendos?
Anna zoomed in on him and saw it was Ximendos.
Anna
The battle is just starting.


Akasha walked into the Iris’ room.
Iris
Why do I hear bullets?
Akasha sat next to her.
Akasha
You’re awake, good. We’re under attack.
Iris
By whom?
Akasha
Some rebel humans. It’s nothing to worry about.
Iris
Good. I still need to speak with Ilias.
Akasha
You will, when you’ve recovered.
Iris closed her eyes.
Iris
Fine.

Amya landed on top of the eastern wall.
Amya
Such commotion they’ve made. I better show my worth.
She clapped her hands together.
Amya
Let’s stop these machines.
Sand rose from the ground under every Gear unit commanded by Amya.
Anna
What is going on?
#2
Most of our units are being held down by some brown substance that looks like sand.
The sand hardened around the gears keeping them in place.
Anna
To the sky!
Anna and twenty other units flew up.
Amya
I don’t want to kill anyone.

Cameron
Are you ready?
Arkain looked at him surprised.
Arkain
Are you kidding me?
He sat in the sand in front of the beach.
Arkain
Of course I am. Finally get to face the deadly empire and show them they aren’t Gods.
Cameron sat down next to him.
Cameron
That’s exactly the same thing I was thinking. Ilias will be our enemy.
Arkain
Should be no big deal. He specializes in energy movement, right?
Cameron
Yes. He can push an object back or to him. He can even create energy capable of destroying buildings. I doubt it will be simple. We’ll manage fine though.
Arkain
Good. I don’t want us both to go up against him and lose. How embarrassing.
Cameron laughed.
Cameron
That won’t happen. Together we can do it.
Arkain
My wings and your flames.
Cameron pointed to the sky.
Cameron
Can you feel that?
Arkain
Just now?
Cameron
Yes.
Arkain looked up.
Arkain
Yes. It came out of nowhere.
Cameron
Sort of feels like we’re being watched.
Arkain
I don’t believe in things like that.
Cameron
Me neither. It’s just odd though. I haven’t felt that in this area.
Arkain
Same here. Hey, maybe you’re right. Maybe we are being watched.
Cameron
Either way, it makes no difference.
Suddenly the air around them began to be filled with leaves.
Cameron
What is this?
Arkain
How should I know?
The leaves began to form in front of them.


Amya
Twenty plus Gears left.
The Gears she had pinned down were now being fired on.
Amya
I’m sorry.
She jumped off the wall.
Anna
Damn! We’re not outnumbered. Land next to your comrades and free them.
They landed next to the held down Gears and started firing at the sand to release them.
Anna
We have to win this.
She turned to look at Ximendos who was still walking.
Anna
Stay here with the rest of the group. I am going after Ximendos.
#2
That is madness!
Anna
God is with me.
She began to walk forward towards Ximendos.


Suri woke up to crying and gun shots.
Suri
Is someone here?
Child’s voice
Yes.
Suri stood up slowly and walked towards the front of her cell.
Suri
Are you okay?
Boys voice
Yes. I’m not hurt. Just scared.
Suri
Don’t be scared. I’m right here. How’d you get here?
Boy’s voice
A man brought me here.
Suri
Some monster brought me here. Do you have a name, kid?
Boy’s voice
My name is Ian.
Suri’s mouth dropped open.
Suri
Ian! It’s me Suri!
Ian
Suri!


Ximendos saw the white Gear rise towards him.
Ximendos
I fear no one.
He raised his right hand up.
Ximendos
Zarathustra, come to me.
In his hand appeared a black sword with a red ruby on it.
Ximendos
Rise and be free.
The sword flew from his hand forward and shined bright white.
Ximendos
Destroy them.
The white expanded until it was no longer white. In front of Ximendos and the battle stood a giant black dragon.
Ximendos
Now go.
It rose into the sky and roared. Its roar shook the ground.
Anna
Oh my God.
It began to rain fire on all the Gears behind Anna.

Cameron and Arkain both stood up quickly as the leaves formed in front of them until Nick was standing in front of them.
Nick
Hello, Arkain.
Arkain
Who the hell are you?
Cameron
You’re lucky I didn’t set your leaves on fire!
Nick laughed.
Nick
Thanks man. That would have hurt.
He looked at Arkain.
Nick
My name is Nick and I was sent by the Amros.
Arkain and Cameron both looked at each other and then back to Nick.
Cameron
What is your purpose here?
He tossed the blue orb at Cameron and Cameron caught it.
Nick
I’m guessing you’re Cameron. That’s from Amros. It’s a communication device. He said he will be speaking with you shortly.
Cameron
Thank you. This is just what we needed.
Arkain
That’s it? A blue ball?
Nick
That’s it. Did you expect me to come baring gifts?
Arkain
Very funny.
Nick shrugged.
Nick
There was also a message I was supposed to relay to you, Arkain.
Arkain
I’m listening.
Nick
Well, President Nicholas Romberg said he’d love if you returned to the White Coats.
Arkain had almost forgotten about Nicholas.
Arkain
He is such a nice man.
Nick
He also said you were important to this war and to him.
Arkain
Thank you for the message.
Nick
No problem.
Cameron
Would you like to stay with us? At least for dinner.
Nick looked at his wrist.
Nick
Sure. The suns going down and I don’t feel like traveling by night.
Arkain
Well then you’re ours for the night.
Nick
I hope that’s totally platonic.
They laughed.

Anna looked back to see every Gear unit in her fleet gone.
Anna
All of them, gone.
The black dragon landed behind her and her Gear’s emergency lights flashed as the dragons tail wrapped her Gear up.
Anna
Shit, shit, shit.
Ximendos began to clap.
Ximendos
What a show, what a show you’ve put on for me.
Anna
It’s him.
Ximendos
And now it’s over. It was a feeble attempt at best. I must commend you for having the nerve to come up here and take us on.
He clapped even harder and then stopped.
Ximendos
Now I must ask you to exit your ship.
Anna panicked. She didn’t prepare for this.
Ximendos
You can come out by choice or I can force you out. The choice is yours.
She pushed the exit button to lower her down.
Ximendos
I hear rumbling. That must be you.
The elevator lowered her to the ground. Inside the elevator she prepared.
Anna
Live by faith not by sight.
She raised her gun up and closed her eyes.
Ximendos
Now to meet my lovely opponent.
The doors opened and she quickly stepped forward and fired forward until the clip was out.
Ximendos
Were you really trying to kill me?
The voice came right next to her ear. She opened her eyes to see Ximendos right next to her.
Anna
Bastard!
Ximendos
Zara, grab her.
The dragons tail wrapped around her body.
Ximendos
To the edge of the base.
He got on top of Zarathustra’s body and they flew to the edge and then landed.
Ximendos
Let her go.
The tail let Anna go.
Anna
What are you doing?
Ximendos
Sending you home of course.
Anna looked down. All she could see was clouds.
Ximendos
You didn’t think I’d keep you as a prisoner, did you?
Anna
Shut up, Devil!
Ximendos
Temper temper, human. I’ve been nothing but kind to you so far. I deserve the same treatment.
Anna
Go to hell!
She spat on the floor in front of Ximendos.
Ximendos
You first.
He laughed. The dragon turned back into the sword.
Ximendos
You couldn’t leave well enough alone.
Anna
Your world is a world of robots!
Ximendos
Wrong. My world is a world of peace.
Anna
No it is not. It’s a world without free will!
Ximendos
I disagree. The humans will still have free will. They just won’t have the ability to do evil things. There is a difference. I took a choice away, not the ability to choose.
He smiled.
Ximendos
But even if I did, I must say you humans are disgusting. You’d rather keep your free will than save the lives of many who died every day in your world. My, my, it would seem as if the freedom of choice matters more than life itself.
Anna
God will fix all of this.
Ximendos
God is dead.
Anna laughed hysterically.
Anna
God will never die.
Ximendos walked forward and pushed her down on her knees.
Ximendos
But you will. Even if your God lives forever, it does not matter. He will live with a world that does not know him. A world that only knows me.
Anna
God help us all.
Ximendos
The God you know only wants to watch you suffer. Only wants to see you learn a lesson. At least that’s what you all think.
He raised his sword to the sky.
Ximendos
But what lesson comes from death? I do not know.
He laughed this time.
Anna
You want to rule and destroy the world.
Ximendos
No! You ignorant human. I saved this world. I will give it the peace it deserves. Something you and your God never did. Destroy the world? I’m not that kind of bad guy.
Anna
I am free.
Ximendos
Say hello to oblivion for me, human. That’s the only thing you gained from this battle.
He stuck the sword through her chest.
Ximendos
Congratulations, go home now.
He put his foot on her shoulder and pushed her off his sword.
Anna
God….
Ximendos pushed her off the edge.
Ximendos
Bon voyage.
Anna’s body fell to earth. Supriya and Kegan flew by her body falling to Earth so quickly they weren’t able to see it was Anna. They flew above and saw the battle was over.
Supriya
We didn’t make it.
Kegan
Damn.


Arkain
So you don’t work for the White Coats?
Nick
Nope.
He said while eating bread. That’s all they had.
Nick
I do my own thing. They’re too old for me.
Cameron
We’re more the the younger ones anyways.
Nick
Cool. What’s your group called?
Cameron
New Order.
Nick
I like, I like.
Arkain
You can join us if you’d like.
Nick looked up from his plate.
Nick
I’ll think about it.
Arkain
We need more people anyways.
Stranger’s voice.
Arkain!
Arkain, Cameron, and Nick startled look to see where it came from.
Arkain
That was her voice.
And along the shore he saw her running towards them.
Arkain
Suri!

Chapter Fifty-Three: Lucky

Nick walked into the room followed by Nicholas. Roselyn rushed forward to hug him tightly. She hadn’t seen him in over 5 years.

Nick

Nice to see you too, mom.

Roselyn

I’ve missed you so much.

Nick

Same here. It’s been years.

Grey

And they passed by very quickly.

Nick

Not fast enough.

He laughed.

Roselyn

The important thing is we’re all back together.

She let go of him and then he shook hands with Amros and Hayden.

Nick

So what’s the situation?

Amros sat on the tip of Nicholas’ desk.

Amros

We’re preparing for war and our allies must know when we’re going to attack. We’ve been led on to believe you are the only suitable person for the job. You will go to our allies and deliver something to them. First you must find them though.

Nick

Finding someone? That’s not a problem.

Amros clapped his hands together.

Amros

Terrific. We were hoping you’d say that.

Nick

Well I just need to know who I’m looking for and I’ll be on my way.

Grey

I told you he’d be perfect.

Nicholas

You have quite a son right here.

Nick laughed.

Nick

Hey guys, enough with stroking my ego. It’s really nothing.

Amros

Well this is important to us. I’d also like to add that when you return you will be a functioning White Coats member.

Nick

Hey man, don’t give me incentive not to come back.

He laughed.

Hayden

Excuse me?

Nick looked directly at Hayden’s piercing eyes.

Nick

I’m not interested in joining your club. I can manage on my own.

He put his arms around Roselyn and Grey.

Nick

Mom and dad may work for you all, but I don’t. It’s just not my style. Plus, you guys are a little too old for my liking.

Hayden

I assure you my age doesn’t show.

Nick

That may be, but I don’t care.

Nicholas

Nick, it would be a wise decision to join them.

Nick

Well I’m not looking for a wise decision. Hell, I’m just doing you all a favor. It’s the least I can do for dad. So once I’m done with that I will take my leave.

Amros

Are you sure about that?

Nick

Pretty positive. I mean, this whole war thing is important to me and I will take part when the time comes, but I’m not interested in joining your group, as I said.

Roselyn

Still a little rebel, I see.

Nick kissed his mom on the cheek.

Nick

Well, you know me.

He put his arms down to his side.

Nick

Now that I’ve said that, who am I looking for?

Hayden

His name is Arkain. His whereabouts are unknown.

Nick

That’s fine. I’ll find him.

Grey patted his son on the back.

Grey

Well Mr. Free Agent, get to it.

Nick

So why am I looking for this kid?

Amros

He will be the one you give the package to. He recently left our group to join another. It would seem as if he’s in the process of finding out who he is and what his role in this war is.

Nick

Sounds like bullshit to me.

He said in a serious tone.

Roselyn

Honey, watch your mouth.

Nick looked back and smiled and then back at Amros.

Nick

Finding himself? That’s laughable. The entire idea is. Everyone knows who they are from the moment they start thinking for themselves. It’s more like them just being insecure and not wanting to be confident in who they really are. Finding himself? No, he’s not. He knows exactly who he is. I’m positive he always has.
Nicholas

I take it you’ve always known who you are?

Nick

Yup. Since I could remember. The trick is to know who you are and show the world. That’s my philosophy, at least. But enough of that. I’m ready to go.

He walked towards the door. Amros walked forward.

Nick

It’s a good thing it’s sunny outside now. I hate working at night.

Amros

Take this and give it to Cameron.

Amros pulled out of his robe a blue orb.

Amros

Let him know it’s a communication device. I shall call for him when I need to.

Nick

Okay cool.

Amros

You’re quite the character, young man. We look forward to your return. You’re greatly respected by us.

Hayden nodded.

Nick

Dope sauce.

He opened the door.

Nicholas

Good luck.

Nick

I don’t believe in luck.

He half smiled.

Nick

Whatever happens happens.

Nicholas

Arkain means a lot to this war. Please make sure he knows that I would love for him to return to us. He means a lot to me also.

Nick

What a lucky guy.

He fully smiled, laughed, and left.

Kegan sat down in front of Supriya drinking water from a mug.

Kegan

You know, I don’t like this place very much.

Supriya yawned.

Supriya

I don’t see why anyone would. They aren’t here by choice if you hadn’t noticed.

Kegan

You’re right. I totally thought they were here on vacation. Woe is me ignorant of reality.

He laughed.

Supriya

Oh shut up. I just want to get out of here. Amros needs to give us a mission.

Kegan

Doubt it. He has you here, he won’t send you away anytime soon.

She rubbed her chin with her right hand.

Supriya

That may be true.

Kegan

Oh don’t worry, it is. It puts a damper on things, if you ask me.

Supriya

How I miss the days when we were warriors.

Kegan laughed.

Kegan

You mean the days before you fell in love with Amros?

Supriya threw him a dirty look.

Supriya

If you’d like to mess around with the past I can do that too.

Kegan crossed his arms.

Kegan

As if anything you say could offend me.

Supriya

It doesn’t have to offend you. It’s only the truth. Remember when you ran around doing horrible and evil things with your brothers?

Kegan

I was the youngest of the bunch. You can’t blame me for following along.

Supriya

True, but still. I pulled you away from those two and we haven’t seen them since.

Kegan

And I am grateful for the day. I must say though, I do get the feeling that we’ll be seeing them real soon.

Supriya

I hope not. I don’t want to have to fight them again.

Kegan

You mean both of us. We both fought them, remember?

Supriya

Yeah, but I was the one holding your weight.

Kegan

You wish.

They laughed together.

Amros

Well I’m offended that I was not invited to this party.

Amros walked up and kissed Supriya and then sat at the extra chair at their table.

Kegan

You’re not missing much. We’re just reminiscing on the past.

Amros

How wonderful. Always a great deal of fun when looking back.

Supriya

I agree. In retrospect, I guess the past’s good for a laugh.

Kegan

Quite the dark comedy if you ask me.

Amros

By my count, if you can laugh, it’s okay.

They all agreed.

Kegan

Can’t argue with that.

Amros

Well then, let’s dive more into this, shall we?

Suri sat in a cell against the back wall in pain.

Suri

Arkain, where are you?

She spat blood on the floor.

Arkain

I think that plan is going to work out fine. Brute force can’t go wrong, can it?

Fallen
It could. The reason why it will work for us is because they have few weapons. Like we discussed, once we get the main pieces away from each other it will be simple.

Syn

Generally I like it. Akasha is mine and Paths.

Fallen

Noted. You can have her.

Cameron

This plan should be easily done. It would help if we had the White Coats in the battle with us.

Fallen

I don’t think we have the time to get to them. They’re in a hidden location that by now Hayden has blocked transportation from.
Cameron

That does make things a tad bit difficult.

Velis

We don’t need them anyways. They’ll only get in our way.

Fallen

I disagree. Amros and Hayden are the perfect allies. It’s probably them two the Empire fears most.

Velis

Whatever.

Fallen

Without them things will be harder but we will manage.

Malic

I still don’t see why I have to be apart of the Gears clean up.

Fallen

You don’t posses the power most of us do. For that reason I assigned you and Tusa to the Gears. It’s a good job, Malic.

Malic

If you say so.

Vesper

Iris is the shield girl, correct?

Velis

Yup.

Vesper

She will not be a problem. Velis and I will take care of her.

Velis smiled.

Fallen

Good. I’m glad that is it for objections. Darby and I will handle Ximendos. And Cameron and Arkain will take Ilias out. That’s it. We will move forward in two days. You are all dismissed.

Ximendos

Anything wrong?

Akasha turned around.

Akasha

It’s you.

Ximendos approached her. She was sitting at the side of Iris.

Ximendos

She is fine, right?

Akasha

Of course.

He kissed Akasha’s head.

Ximendos

She’s a strong one. Just like her mother.

They both smiled.

Ximendos

I was thinking, how about we have the wedding in two days?

Akasha’s mouth almost fell open with shock.

Akasha

That’s a bit early, don’t you think?

Ximendos

Nonsense. They fall in love quickly, why not get married in the same manner? It’s not like we waited too long to get married.

Akasha

Nine days. It was nine days after we met.

Ximendos

You’re only strengthening my argument.

He approached Iris’ bed.

Ximendos

We can just get it out of the way.

Akasha

And then?

Ximendos

And then we send them off somewhere. A honeymoon or something. I’m sure Ilias already has one planned.

Akasha

Why so eager about sending them off?

Ximendos

No reason.

He smiled. Iris slept silently between them.

Ximendos

It would just be nice if it was only the two of us in the palace. I’ve already arranged for Amya and Iris to go to the California to make sure our 2^nd palace is being built correctly.

Akasha almost laughed.

Akasha

Thinking ahead as always. Well I don’t see a problem with your plans. As long as it’s really only to be alone with me you’re banking on.

Ximendos chuckled.

Ximendos

Of course, my darling.

Nick stood outside on the mountain above the base. He was about to begin his mission.

Roselyn

You always were eager for action.

He turned around to face his mother.

Nick

What are you doing out here?

Roselyn stepped forward.

Roselyn

I wanted to properly say goodbye.

Nick laughed.

Nick

You don’t want me to leave, do you?

Roselyn put her right hand on her neck and rubbed herself.

Roselyn

To be perfectly honest, no. You just got here.

Nick

I’ve been here, mom. It’s you who didn’t come looking for me.

She put her hand down.

Roselyn

I could say the same about you.

Nick

I’m not your mom though.

Roselyn

Thank goodness for that.

She walked until she was standing next to him.

Roselyn

You’re all grown up. The last time I saw you I think you were fifteen.

Nick

That I was. You went on your world tour, mom. Had to please Amya, your secret mother.

Roselyn

I was following orders.

Nick

And that meant leaving me with dad to live my life as a normal human.

Roselyn

I thought it would be best.

Nick

You did. You also made that decision without my consent.

Roselyn

You wouldn’t understand.

Nick

You see, that’s the problem with adults. They think they know best. They want to make the best decisions for their kids without even listening to what their kid might want. How can the best decision for a kid be one that the poor kid doesn’t even know about? You could have taken me with you, mom.

Roselyn

I couldn’t of.

Nick

You could have let me know. Let me see your face one last time before you left. Instead you went off to gamble your life away and you left me with dad. You left me to myself.

Roselyn

I’m sorry.

Nick

It’s okay, mom. I’ve had a lot of time to think about all this. And you know what? I’m okay. I got through it all. I got through high school, dad, and being alone. I got through life without you.

Roselyn hugged him.

Roselyn

I’m here now. You’re not through with me.

Nick looked up at her face.

Nick

I never said I was. I love you, mom.

Roselyn felt a tear coming down her face. She didn’t forget how Nicolas’ face looked. She just never got to know the face in front of her now. The young man he had grown to be. She held him close while coming to terms with the fact that he is the only blood left that she loves.

Roselyn

I love you, too. I won’t leave again, Nicolas.

She kissed his forehead.

Nick

I have to go now, mom. I won’t be too long, hopefully. Depends on how often this guy moves. If he stays in one spot I should reach him in a day.

Roselyn

Well you have two, so make haste.

Nick smiled at his mom. A smile he had been saving for her.

Nick

I’ll be back soon. When I return you can tell me all about your adventures. You can even tell me about grandma.

Roselyn

I don’t think you want to know about her.

Nick

No, I do. I want to know everything. I want to finally know you, Roselyn.

Roselyn held back her tears.

Roselyn

Well then hurry back, kiddo.

Nick

Will do.

He waved his hand goodbye to her. She let the tears she was holding back fall down her face because she knew he could not see anymore. Just as she got him back he was leaving again. And in that moment, even after she was betrayed by her mother, she finally understood the movement of a hand. Nick’s hand began to turn into green leaves and then his whole body did.

Roselyn

Goodbye.

The leaves flew into the wind. He was gone. She was alone, again.

Masato stood in front of Conor and Emmylou as they held each other tightly. Merdos sat down at his feet.

Masato

It is time to go, young ones.

Merdos

Give them a minute, Masato. The child just lost her little brother. They say love is the perfect healing power for all wounds.

Masato

We don’t have much time. We must report back to Amros.

Merdos

Relax, he doesn’t miss us yet. We have a little time.

They let go of each other.

Emmylou

I’m sorry, sirs. We haven’t been properly introduced.

Merdos

I’m Merdos and that’s Masato.

Emmylou
I am Emmylou. This is Conor.

Conor waved.

Emmylou

Before you talk, I know what you’re thinking. You’re thinking about taking us back.

Masato

That is correct.

Emmylou

Well I assure you, I’m not going back.

Merdos

You aren’t in a position of making such bold statements.

Emmylou

I think I am.

She pulled out her gun and put it to her head.

Emmylou

I won’t be going back. You two allowed my brother to die not four hours ago. If you think I’m going to go back you’ve got to be fucking kidding me. I’m not here to bargain, I’m speaking with you both to inform you that I will be going on.

Masato

Emmylou, please put the gun down.

Emmylou

That’s not an option. This gun will stay where it is until you both decide to let us go.

Merdos

Or what?

Emmylou

Or I pull the trigger.

Conor

Emmylou, what are you doing?

Emmylou turned to Conor.

Emmylou

You said it yourself, we have to go on.

She looked back at Masato and Merdos.

Emmylou
So what’s it going to be, boys?

Masato and Merdos looked at each other and then back to Emmylou.

Masato

You are serious about this?

Emmylou

Deadly.

Masato

And you won’t allow reason to sway you?

Emmylou

Nope.

Merdos

Well there is only one option left.

Conor pulled out his gun and aimed it at Merdos.

Conor

Don’t even think about it. Touch her and I’ll kill you.

Merdos laughed and got down on one knee.

Merdos

I will accompany you on your journey.

Emmylou and Conor looked at each other shocked.

Emmylou

Is this a joke?

Merdos

Not at all.

Conor

Why would you do that?

Masato

Our mission was to retrieve you both and protect you. As it stands you both refuse to come back with us. For that reason Merdos will stay with you and I will go back and let Amros know the decision you have made.

Emmylou began to loosen the gun in her hand.

Emmylou

And we can trust you?

Merdos

Of course. We have no reason to betray you. We’re all on the same side. It would be unwise to make more enemies as of now.

Emmylou

That’s true.

Conor walked forward.

Conor

Well let’s get moving.

Emmylou

Stand up.

Merdos stood up quickly.

Emmylou

You are to protect us and not try and disarm us to take us back.

Merdos

Understood.

Emmylou

And you are to do as I ask.

Merdos

Noted.

Emmylou

And stand by Conor and I in all we do.

Merdos

Got it.

Masato

Would you like a crown as well? He’s yours.

Emmylou lowered her gun. Merdos transformed.

Emmylou

You’re a tiger!

He roared.

Conor

A pretty big one at that.

Masato

Get on. He’s going to take you where you need to go.

Emmylou looked at Conor.

Emmylou

I’ve never rode a tiger.

Conor

I’ve never really rode anything other than my bike.

They both got on Merdos’ back.

Masato

Take care of them, Merdos.

He roared and turned his back on Masato.

Masato

Emmylou, if I must say, you are one dedicated human.

Emmylou smiled.

Emmylou

I do what I have to in order to get by.

Masato

Admirable, for a human. When most give up, when most stop, you continue. I admire that. Now go, go find your father.

Conor

And Suri.

They rode off into the dirt towards the Empire’s palace.

Gemma was in her bed looking up at the ceiling. She found herself thinking about one too many things. About Ilias and his health, her parents, and Arkain.

Gemma

Krysin, how are you now?
It was silent. After living so long with the voice in her head she hadn’t got used to being without it.

Gemma

He’s gone. He’s gone forever.

A sharp pain struck her forehead.

Gemma

Damn.

She rubbed her head annoyed.

Ilias

Anything wrong?

She was startled. She sat up quickly and looked towards the place where the voice came from.

Ilias

I’m sorry if I’ve startled you.

Gemma felt relieved that it was Ilias.

Ilias

Apparently I’ve recovered faster than anticipated. I’m still very weak but I couldn’t wait to see you.

He walked over to her bed where she sat.

Ilias

Are you okay, Gemma?

Gemma gulped.

Gemma

Yes. I just have a headache.

Ilias

Well that’s no good. Would you like me to rub your head while you slept?

Gemma

Would you do that for me?

Ilias

I would.

She lied down on her back. She knew she could close her eyes with him around.

Ilias

I’m glad I am feeling a little better. I hated being in that bed away from you.

Gemma

Are you sure you’re okay? It’s only been two hours since I left your side.

Ilias

I’m not a little boy, Gemma. I’m fine enough to be here next to you.

He rubbed her head and she felt a little better.

Ilias

Besides, I feel a lot better here right now anyways.

Gemma began to fall asleep.

Ilias

Now that I’m back we will get some rest and then talk tomorrow morning.

Gemma felt herself becoming more comfortable than she had ever been since the changing of her world.

Gemma

I miss you.

She whispered.

Ilias

I miss you already too. Now go to bed.

Gemma

Arkain.

She said so low without knowing it. Ilias didn’t hear her.

Nicholas

Hayden!

He ran into Hayden.

Hayden

Is there a problem, Nicholas?

Nicholas

Anna is gone!

Hayden

Did you check outside?

Nicholas

She left. She took a hundred soldiers with her.

Hayden

Nicholas, you can’t be serious.

Nicholas

She’s on her way to the Empire!

Hayden

I must inform Amros.

Hayden walked past Nicholas.

Nicholas

Can we do anything?

Hayden turned back to look at Nicholas.

Hayden

If she’s lucky.