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.