《Titan Project - [Superhero, Cyberpunk, Dystopian][Book 1 Complete!]》 1: "Caught" Evan slapped his hands to his classroom desk and held them there like the other thirty students, as was procedure. His sweaty palms stuck to its plastic surface. A vibration coursed at the tips of his fingers. He bit his tongue, bidding his powers to stay locked within. Dean VanDusen continued his announcement over a loudspeaker. Instructors, please ensure that your students maintain protocol and do not impede the authorities in their search for a possible Afflicted on Campus. Show them that Nero Caine Academy students are the best the Federation can produce. The room filled with the murmur of classmates. Things like, Do you think theyll send a purifier to find it? and What if its a student? or I hope they kill it before graduation today. All the while Mr. Reltih shushed them and waved his hands for them to calm down, his mustache dancing on his lip. This was all wrong. Father said hed take care of the situation. Hed always been able to protect Ken and Evan before. Had things gotten out of his control? Had Evan finally sabotaged everything? Were soldiers coming for both Ken and him? Would they drag them away only three hours before graduation? Maybe theyd shoot them right there in front of their classmates. Monster. Evan took deep breaths, trying to keep his powers from flaring out. What about Ken? His friend was in bio-lab, across the hall. The classroom doors were sealed slabs of metal, and only a teachers keycard could open them. Evan could attack Mr. Reltih and steal it. The man was scrawny, though Evan had no illusions of his own strength. Forget the keycard, he could try and disintegrate the door, run down the hall, blow up an escape for Ken, and theyd both make a break for freedom. But the more likely scenario was Evan would lose control and fall to the floor writhing in his own vomit, or accidentally kill everyone in the room. None of those seemed like great outcomes. Anyway, even if he could save Ken, what would they do next? Jump through one of the six-foot windows that lined the outer walls of both classrooms? There were dozens of them, big enough to climb through. But itd be a four-story drop into solid rock pavement. Theyd be like the autumn leaves, making their descent into the next life. Evan shook his head. Dont be stupid. Dad has a plan. If the Governor could keep both Ken and Evans powers a secret for over six years despite what Evan had done, then surely, hed find a way to protect them now. The class quieted as the sound of clanking feet came down the hallway. Enforcers. Evans mind flashed to six years ago. Dark blue uniforms, soulless black visors, and thick guns strapped to their thighs. He imagined one held to his forehead. Evans body melted in sweat. He couldnt move. He couldnt breathe. Swoosh. A door had opened. Not the one to Evans class. One across the hall. There were muffled voices. Someone screamed. Swoosh. Theyre in the hallway. Evan ran from his desk. Evangelos, Mr. Reltih shrieked, get back into your seat! Evan ignored him, pushing desperately against the locked door to open it. Who did they grab? Who was in that hallway? Who was being dragged, kicking his feet, crying? Hey, look! Squawked another classmate who pointed to something outside. The other students shoved each other as they crowded to look through the windows. Reltihs disapproving shouts were reduced to white noise amidst the clamor and excitement. The story has been taken without consent; if you see it on Amazon, report the incident. Evan squeezed his way to the glass. Several stories down, upon that hard-cobbled pavement, hummed an armored car. It was an onyx black box of slanted hard edges, with a gunner hatch on top, and viewports slit on its hull. It bloomed white exhaust that wreathed around it like a dragons head. A handful of enforcers dragged someone in an academy uniform out of the school. Please not him. Please not him. But it was. Kens shoes popped off his feet as they skid across the pavement. Tears and snot ran down his face. He looked up at the windows helplessly, almost as if he knew Evan was looking down at him. The soldiers shoved a syringe into his neck, and he went limp. Then they tossed him into the car, climbed in, and drove away from the school. Evans body burned, his vision blurred, his stomach pulsated. This wasnt how it was supposed to be. This wasnt supposed to happen at all. It was his fault, his, not Kens. It was never Kens fault. The deans voice blared over the sound system again. Well done, students. The Afflicted menace has been dealt with. As the lockdown ends, please make your way to your designated positions for graduation! The class cheered. It was sickening. Evan stumbled back to his desk. He gulped when he saw that an impression of his palms had melted the top of his desk, and waxy plastic caked his hands. He threw his backpack over the desktop and wiped his hands on it, waiting to be the last student out of the class so that no one would see what had happened. He followed quickly behind the last two students on their way out the door. Its parents were idiots not to get vaccinated before having a kid, said one of them, a squeaky girl named Patel. The vaccine doesnt always work, suggested Ruce, her dreary-eyed boyfriend. Patel scoffed. It couldve killed us! Usually, Evan ignored when people called Afflicted people it, but this time each use drummed his heart deeper into his chest. Ken was more human than any of these fools. Evan wanted to turn the two of them into dust, and he could, if only it wouldnt prove them right about how dangerous Afflicted were. He instantly regretted the idea. Yeah, I would have fought back, Ruce said. Patel shivered. It was an idiot. Couldnt even speak right. Probably had a lame Affliction, like drooling too much. Glad I dont have to sit next to it gnawing on its collar like some reject. Evan seethed. He shoved past the couple, knocking their books to the ground. Ruce swore. Freaking GK. Shut up! You want his dad to- Evan walked too fast to hear that last part, but he knew what they would say about him. People usually avoided the Governors Kid for good reason. But at that moment he didnt care what they said about him. Ken didnt deserve any of this. Evans mind cycled through everything. I could have tried to save him. A worse realization came to mind. Father should have saved him. Evan ran for the cover of his dorm, slamming the door behind him. He adverted his eyes from Kens bunk and made a phone call. It rung until it went to voicemail. Im sorry, his fathers pre-recorded voice said, Im not available- Evan canceled the call and tried again. Dont do this to me. Im sorry, Im not- Come on! Im sor- Evan swore and pressed the phone into his face. He pulled back when he noticed his reflection in it. Sweat evaporated from his cheeks. His hair sprung up in every which way, and his eyes were drug-addict red. His stained shirt hung from his frame like a wrinkled curtain. The person staring back at him made him sick. His hands buzzed with heat, and he felt his vision pull away from him. Control was slipping. He grabbed for something, anything. A toothbrush. He squeezed the plastic handle like someone might bite down on a wooden stick before an amputation. Its bristles rippled like wheat in a field, until the white strands disintegrated one by one. Dust particles floated around the purple handle, like candle wax slipping through his grasp, dribbling on to the floor. He stumbled, feeling like a capsized boat. The worse of it had passed. He wiped his palm with a towel and curled up in the frame of his dorms large window C wishing he was a leaf, wishing he was a leaf, wishing he was a leaf. The phone buzzed in his hand. Dad? Fathers smooth river of a voice responded, Well talk when I see you after graduation. For now, trust in the Federation. That was code for, Our conversation is being monitored. There was so much Evan needed answers for. But then the call ended. Evan was alone. Lost. Hollow. Except for a single thought. It should have been me. 2: "Graduation" Evan tugged at his collar, which threatened to choke him anytime he looked down. His uniform was dark blue with pale trimming that stretched to his wrists and down his torso. The schools coat of arms clung to his left pec; a white crescent moon tri-pointed by the schools initials, N.C.A. Gilded buttons ran down the length of the coat, which was finished off with split tails in the back. He didnt want to wear the uniform, he didnt want to be there, he didnt want to carry on like nothing had happened. But what else was there for him to do, trapped in a uniquely secluded section of the Midwestern Federation? Nothing, but keep praying that his father would find a way to save Ken. He slunk into a grey chair, a half-sized partition separating him from his classmates on either side. Directly in front of him stood a small table with an obsidian-dark box on top. Its face had a small slit and camera lens that watched Evan closely. One-hundred and ninety-eight other students sat in similar cubicles that were arranged in rows around a stage, not too dissimilar to that of an opera hall. There was an empty seat in front of Evan, one that was meant to be filled. He almost made it, but you killed him. Evan sunk as deep into his chair as he could, still able to see the faces of the other students around him. He noted three faces in particular C Nicholas, Anthony, and Vulture. All too satisfied. Evan knew why, and it took everything in him not to leap at them C press his hands to their faces, melt their skin like wax Monster. Evan still felt the bruises in his neck from Nicholas chubby digits pinning him against one of the schools outer concrete walls. Evan had tried to twist free, but his toothpick-thin arms didnt do him any favors against the bulky kid who held him. Stay out of this, GK. This doesnt have anything to do with you, Nicholas had said. His uncanny egg-shaped head shining from the Sun. All Evan could do was yell as two other brutes smashed Kens head against a metal lunch table, spraying the contents of a nutrition shake everywhere. His glasses snapped in half as one of the bullies smooshed his face harder against the surface. Come on freak, do something, one of the bullies had said to Ken. Her real name escaped Evan, but hed seen her beady vulture eyes somewhere else before. We know youre one of them. Come on, use your Affliction, try to hurt me. Save yourself, freak. Do it freak. Freak. Freeeaaak, Anthony said, an equally skin-headed fiend. They were wrong about Ken; his power wasnt dangerous. He could mimic voices, thats all, like a video recording or a corvids mock vocals. He was exceptional at controlling his powers, unlike Evan, however. Sure, Ken talked to himself regularly, along with a dozen other quirks that made him, him. But It wasnt Ken who theyd seen use powers. It had been Evan, it had to have been. His power was dangerous. Molecular Dispersion, his fathers private scientists had called it. The ability to change the state of matter. But in truth, it just meant he was good at disintegrating stuff with his mind C or more often in his case, losing control and falling into a seizure shortly after. He was always slipping up some way or another, and these pure-bred animals must had seen it C but because Ken was the different one out of their duo, theyd assumed it had to be him. Evan had searched for a way to save them without giving himself away. It was stupid, but maybe if he disintegrated the buttons on the bullies pants, make their uniform slacks fall around their ankles, they might let go in shock and give Evan and Ken an opportunity to escape. Hed call father and itd be their word vs. the Governors. Just the buttons. Evan focused in on the tiny circles at the bullies waists, imagining them slip their bonds. What are you looking at? Nicholas snapped. A solid fist dug into Evans stomach. Shock ran up his chest, scattering his focus. Instead of just the buttons, the entirety of their pants disintegrated into dust, exposing their various styles of underwear. The bullies reeled. Nicholas fled, tears flying off his face, tailed by Vulture and Anthony C Toward the Deans office, Evan realized in retrospect. You ok, E-friend? Ken had asked. This is bad, man. I messed it up, Evan admitted. The metallic taste of blood came from his inner cheek after chewing on it too hard, and his eyes burned from not blinking enough while looking for an answer. Ken braced Evan with an arm and guided him inside the school. Going to be ok, buddy, he said with a reassuring smile. It had been enough to set Evans mind at ease for a brief, gullible moment. Im an idiot. Evan thought, snapping back to the present. Three buttons. That was the thing that got Ken arrested. Three insignificant circles of plastic. He wished he could blink himself out of existence. Yet, his existence persisted, and hed have to endure the graduation ceremony that was ahead of him. He stopped looking at the bullies, stopped remembering the past, and stopped giving them any more of his fraying sanity. Instead, he set his mind on how he was going to survive the next few hours. The tale has been illicitly lifted; should you spot it on Amazon, report the violation. The chattering of students dissipated as plump Dean VanDusen walked on to the auditorium stage and braced himself at a podium made of twisting onyx with veins of cream. An orb-shaped camera drone hovered in front of him. He licked his potato skin lips and began. This is a blessed day. The day that you step into your familial legacies as capable men and women of the Federation of America, he declared. Evan wanted to escape, but he knew the eyes of the nation were watching. Enforcers could be waiting for him just outside, waiting for him to confirm their suspicions that he was an Afflicted sympathizer, waiting to stick a needle in his neck and cart him away to an uncertain future. So, he forced himself to watch the Deans lips dance, threatening to chase after him if he dared to leave the theater before the ceremony was complete. Before we begin, please stand with me to recite the Federation pledge. The Dean waved his hand, and a projection of the pledge and Federation crescent moon spread out into the air above him. The floor rumbled as the entire student body rose. Evan toyed with the idea of staying in his seat, but still the mind sought to preserve the body. He did stand C but he refused to speak the pledge and said his own prayer instead. I Pledge Myself to the Federation of America, Why did I do it? Oh, Federation of Freedom, of Faith, What should I do? No Villain, No Demon, No Wraith, Please help me. Will sway me from your call, Help me find him. For even in the night, Help me do something right. You shine on us all. Help me save someone other than myself. A smile wriggled across VanDusens face. Please, have a seat. Evan sat, looking anywhere other than Kens empty chair. He couldnt bear to listen to what else the Dean had to say, but still the words bore into his mind without consent. Never, in my twenty years serving Nero Caine Academy, have I been more pleased with a class than I am with this one. You, the 20th graduating class, have proven that the Federations future is here. Your blood is pure! To this day, we are the only Federation school never to have graduated an Afflicted, and we have paved a bright future in which our society may no longer live-in fear of such poison. The student body erupted in applause, including a very satisfied Patel. Get ready to have your crappy record broken. Evan smirked. At least one good thing would come from the day. The events end was close, all that was left was for their citizen IDs to be distributed C or so Evan had thought. It turned out the Deans presentation was far from over. VanDusen depressed his hands and quieted the applause. Now, usually this would be the point where you receive your identification cards and are set out into the world as proud members of the Federation. But in light of todays triumph over a dangerous parasite- The students booed at this mention of Ken. Evan found his eyes dropping to that empty seat. Now, now, VanDusen continued. I thought it would be appropriate to show off President Caines legendary speech from the first Unification Day. Not that. Evan winced. A decade ago, a group of terrorists had blown up a Federation bio-lab. The explosion had released some form of radiation across the East, thus creating the Affliction. President Caine was elected purely because he promised to remove the Afflicted, and this was his first address. The projection flashed to a video recording of the Presidents speech. Thousands crowded around the terraces of the capital. Several broad steps led to the front of what was The White Tower, with pillars stretching thousands of feet past low clouds. At the top of the steps stood a glass cage, and within it shimmered a three-dimensional image of the President C the first president who refused to make an address in person (too many assassinations of previous presidents, no doubt). His hair was stiff and black. A single metal pin of the Federation flag was clasped to his coat, a white background with a blue circle at the center of a black crescent. Dark eyes peered from his angular visage as he looked upon the legions gathered before him. That same day, soldiers came searching for Afflicted. That same day, Evan discovered his powers. That same day, it would take four showers to get the smell of blood out of his hair. Evan sucked in a rigid breath at the same time as the President always did before giving his infamous speech. Today marks the age of unification. The decades of war are finally over. Evan forgot his body, entranced by his memories and the horror of what had just happened to the only friend hed ever known. To his brother. Finally, the recording was nearly over. We will undo separation. We will undo the Titan Project. With that, the student body erupted in cheers. The Dean said, Well, students no longer! You are now Federation citizens! Somehow the students manifested an even greater cry of celebration, except for Evan who sat frozen in his chair, staring blankly at Kens seat. A metal card pushed out from the black box in front of it. His focus snapped to a similar card that came from his own box, his citizenship identification card. The cold of it bit his fingers. It was laser cut with a barcode and the classification, Evangelos Hendricks Junior, B3-1984. A great rustling threw Evan out of his thoughts as his class turned and filed out of the auditorium with their new IDs clutched in hand. Ruce, Patel, Nicholas, Anthony, and even Vulture Eyes C his enemies C all allowed to walk into the future unscathed. But Kens ID still lay there in front of his empty seat, no destination for it other than, perhaps, a landfill. No, Evan said. He slid over the chair and grabbed the forlorn card. His heart danced. What was he doing? I dont know, but something, he thought. He nodded at another student who eyed the stolen card. She opened her mouth but was tugged away by the wave of excited classmates. Evan seized the opportunity to escape the auditorium, tapping his ID on his right thigh, while gripping Kens in his sweaty left palm. 3: "The Freaking Boogieman" Evan sat on a grey cobbled pillar by the schools front steps. The air smelled of wet cobblestone, which was oddly soothing compared to the stiff atmosphere of indoor recycled breathing. He watched the sway of rust-colored trees that caressed an overcast sky. Periodically, the clouds might peel back, allowing the Sun to emblazon the dying leaves with fiery reds and oranges, like light when it passes through the skin of a finger splayed hand. There were few places in the Federation that maintained such beauty, and beyond the hills that shielded the school were a fair number of wastelands, ruins, and places where the price for survival had been paid a thousand times over. Below the trees were four twelve-foot-tall, electrified walls of metal which surrounded the campus of Nero Caine Academy, painted to look like red brick. Toward the northside, a single gate opened for split road that stretched infinitely East and West. Parallel to the road was a rail system. A tram would arrive momentarily, as it did every day, and every night. Wait for the tram, E-friend. Evan twirled the two IDs between his fingertips, while AI synthesized music played in his ratty-old headphones. The torn cushions of earmuffs hugged his head with the embrace of his childhood. They were ancient technology by most standards, but they played music all the same. Further ahead of him mingled the newly graduated class. Many friends, none of them his. Airships and hovercars descended to landing pads just outside of the schools gate, with hundreds of students, parents, servants, and staff cycling in and out of them for their journey home. Luggage stacked in piles upon piles in the courtyard and around the landing zones, sorted through and distributed by sharply dressed staff. Evan, however, had no luggage. He couldnt bring himself to go into his dorm again after the custodians had gathered Kens stuff, which wasnt much to begin with. All hed had left were the two IDs, his phone, headphones, and backpack filled with a coat and random school supplies. He closed his eyes and tried to remember. The cool air became the ocean spray. The Suns warmth held him, and the cobble pillars were coarse like beach sand under his fingers. It reminded him of a moment before hed become what he was. A moment with his father. They admired the setting sky, reds and purples spreading out and waving them farewell while they collected shells. Their feet left craters in the sand as they walked toward an old white house. Ken was there. So was Evans mother. Monster. A sharp chill swept over Evan, taking the memory away with it. Perhaps it was for the best because he dreaded seeing the inside of that sickly house yet again. Evan shook his head and set aside the IDs, stripped off his uniform shirt, then pulled out his brown coat and slipped it on instead. Its right shoulder was sewn with a patch of an upside-down Federation flag, orienting the crescent moon backward. He liked to pretend it was intentional, a rebellion against the Federation. But it was only a sewing error. Wearing a miss-sewn badge was the most rebellious thing he had ever done, apart from existing. So, what was he thinking when he stole Kens ID? What was someone like him supposed to do with a useless piece of metal? What statement could he make that wouldnt also throw himself into Federation custody? He was no hero. No rebel. No savior. He never wanted to be. All he wanted was well, it was stupid. He knew it was stupid. But wouldnt it be nice to just live in the music and never leave? A whistle came from behind the hills, where a great metal eel of a tram slithered out across the rail system in front of the school. Giant circular emitters magnetically lifted its chain of carts. The words Monolith Industries scrolled across its frame in broad holographic letters, but it might as well have said, Property of Governor Evangelos Hendricks. Images of the Governors second in command, Charlie Crain, came after. His smile could skin someone alive and then sell it back to them at twice the cost. Then came the images of Evans father. He did not smile. His eyes held within them the cool calculating power that it took to control the East. That same power he always said would protect Evan and Ken. Liar. An automated voice came from the trams loading area. Attention. The Monolith tram to: Hazard Station has arrived. Trains here, E-friend, Evan whispered. Ken would always say that when the tram arrived, without fail, even though neither of them had ever rode it. But for some reason the train meant something to Ken all the same, like a reminder that there was always a choice, that thered always be an escape open for them. Evan held his knees to his chest. It shouldnt have happened this way. He was supposed to save Ken, otherwise what was the point of it all? What was the point of that day when his mom? It couldnt have all been a waste. He made one more attempt at calling his dad. He had to know that everything would be ok, that his friend was going to be rescued and protected. Father had promised. Hed said theyd always be safe, that hed always protect them No, that hed always protect Evan. Was that always the real promise, and Evan had hidden his own hopes within it? Just Evan? Not his friend? His brother? Please leave a message, his fathers voicemail said. Evan called again. Please leave a message. Pick up, you- Please- Pick up! Ple- Agh! Evan slammed his phone into his backpack but missed and instead dropped it into a patch of freshly cut grass. Evan pinched his brow, only then realizing that he was sweating and some of the pillars granite was on his hands. He brushed the tiny rocks off. Cut it out, man, he commanded himself. He took deep breaths, and the heat of his powers dissipated. Wouldnt want to get arrested for Affliction on the day of graduation. He caught the side glance of the three Hitlers Youth; Anthony, Nicholas, and Vulture. They were a few yards away, waiting for their flight home. This was Evans last chance to avenge Ken, wasnt it? His opportunity to make them hurt like they hurt him. Why shouldnt he reach his hand out and watch as his power ripped them apart? Thats what he was good at anyway, tearing things apart, blowing them up, destroying everything. It wasnt hard to imagine their molecules, thousands of tiny bigots making up three whole C The narrative has been taken without authorization; if you see it on Amazon, report the incident. Monster. Thats not me. Evan squeezed his temples, ashamed of what hed just been contemplating, the things hed been thinking of all day. It was all wrong. Hurting them would only prove them right, it would prove the whole cursed world right, and he knew it wouldnt make the pain go away either. But if not revenge, and not passiveness, then what? What was there to do when all he felt was this gnawing emptiness? First his mom, now Ken. All he had left was his father. A man who wouldnt answer his calls. A man who, when Evan really thought about it, never actually cared about them. He was the Governor, wasnt he? He needed to cover for himself and only himself. Thats what he did after Evans mom had died, wasnt it? This was the same thing again. What would the world say if it turned out that the Governor of the East had an Afflicted son after all this time? Theyd riot. Theyd try to tear down his empire. But some random, abnormal kid that he had adopted out of charity? Easier to spin. No ties to his genes. Evan brushed his fingers through his hair. He didnt know if any of that was true, and it was unfair to pin everything on his dad. But he couldnt just sit and wait to find out if he was right or not. He had to fix this on his own. Last call for passengers bound for: Hazard Station and Dogma Isle, the trams voice called out one more time. There had always been a myth, that Afflicted were taken away to a special school where they wouldnt hurt anyone, and theyd grow up in a community together C waiting for their chance to be released back into society when a cure was found. For the first time, Evan hoped it was true. Ken might find his parents there, theyd be reunited A fools hope. Evan pressed Kens ID against his forehead and made a promise. Youre not going to sacrifice yourself for me, buddy. Im coming for you. Then he pocketed it. He stuffed his headphones in his backpack and jumped down from the pillar to snatch up his phone. His feet scraped against the cobbled road as he ran for the tram. A line of faculty and the occasional student funneled through a security pass where theyd flashed their IDs, a beam would scan them before turning green, and then the tram door would welcome them inside. Forcing his apprehensions to the back of his head, Evan presented his ID to the scanner. A white light traced his body. It flashed green, followed by a metallic voice that said, Evangelos Hendricks Junior, B3-1984. Identity accepted. The tram door opened for him, but he didnt move. He was about to make the bravest, or stupidest, decision hed ever made. But it would be his decision, not just a reaction to someone elses. This was his chance to be an active force in his own life, and if he succeeded C if he saved his friend C maybe everything hed been through would be worth something. He sucked in a breath, and stepped on to the tram, the doors sliding closed behind him. The tram smelled like sulfur, and the carpeted floor was splotched with black stains. Evan looked down the narrow corridors to his left and right. At the end of each cart were secluded rooms, followed by rows of benches that faced each other in pairs and were tucked beside giant glass windows. The tram was filled with a swarm of passengers in either direction. Thered be the periodic student, but thankfully Evan didnt recognize any of them. Now departing for: Hazard Station. The tram shifted, knocking Evan from his balance. He stumbled into one of the small rooms as the machine accelerated forward. There were two benches that faced each other, with a wide window at the end. He slid himself over to look outside, when he noticed a mound of a man lying on the bench across from him, snoring through the hum of the train. The Sun poured over his body like a fiery blanket. He was covered to his chin in a large black coat, and he clenched a physical picture, which was rather rare. It was of a smirking blonde woman in a white blouse. The guy was asleep, which was good enough for Evan. A weight lifted off him as the Academy C that prison of cobbled rocks, solid beams, and soulless glass C faded away. Part of him wanted to forget every human drone that attended or worked there, but he held on to them instead. If he ever ran into Nicholas, Anthony, or Vulture again He shook his head, exhaled, and let them go. They didnt matter anymore. All that mattered was saving Ken. He pulled his backpack off. It had a badge of the Federation Flag sewn into it as well. It begged for its life but deserved no compassion. Evan ripped it off and flicked it out of the window, along with his uniform shirt. The fabric flapped in the wind and whipped beneath the magnetic pull of the trams emitters. So long, Hell. The slow ride from the Midwestern Federation area to the East provided plenty of time for Evan to see the old American landscape from a different perspective. When in an airship, he never witnessed just how dwarfing the Appalachian Mountains were, or how haunting the forests around it looked, and how small he was compared to it all. He also never noticed how many soldiers patrolled the roads in armored cars; or just how many guns they had. More chatter came from the automated system, Arriving at: Hazard Station. Outside was a rustic town set upon small hills. It was made up of apartments and short houses that were constructed from pewter instead of polymer. Spiderwebs of cables and wires stretched between the buildings, making it seem rather haunting. Looming farther up the coast was the capital of the Federation, Dogma Isle. Its omnipresent glass and steel monoliths gleamed against the setting Sun. Though the capital was near, its influence over the town was fragile. A lot of stories about Afflicted came from Hazard Station; everything from rioting to full-on skirmishes with rebels. It was because the Titan Project incident had happened not too far West of what had used to be Philadelphia. Ken was somewhere out there, and Evan would find him. Identification? burped a tin voice. A drone, like a large metallic eyeball, hovered in the doorway of Evans cubicle. Its red pupil swam in a sea of black. Identification, it said again. Evan held out his ID. The drone scanned Evan with a white beam that flashed to green. Identity confirmed, Evangelos Hendricks Junior, B3-1984. The sleeping man stirred, his dark brown eyes blinking open underneath a scowl. His short hair and stubble jaw were equally shadowy. He was much thinner than his thick coat had suggested. The drone pivoted to the stranger, but it didnt scan him; it just hummed as it rocked gently in the air. He nodded to the machine. It continued down the train, never scanning him. Fear stung Evan. Hed never seen a drone skip a scan, even with Federation enforcers. He had a sudden urge to run. Junior, huh? The man scoffed in a gravelly voice. Governors kid. Good. Good? Evans spine tingled. His mind told him to get up, to leave, but his body chose to freeze up. The man stuffed his photo of the blonde into his black jeans. His eyes salivated with Evan in their reflection. Change of plans, he said. What? Evan asked. Yep, time to find a new seat. He hopped up, but as his foot touched the floor, his body stiffened C his legs, torso, arms C everything except his face became paralyzed. Wha-? The strangers eyes glowed a faint white. Evan stammered as he realized what kind of person this was. Yo-youre Afflicted. Careful not to say that too loud, kid. Next stop: Dogma Isle, the tram snapped. Now, the man muttered. Lights flickered off, and the tram dropped to the ground with a sudden crash. The other passengers tumbled in their seats, but Evan stayed frozen in place. This guys working with someone else, a hacker whos controlling the tram, and probably that drone as well. The trams automated voice broadcasted an alert. Attention passengers. This tram has experienced an unexpected depletion of power. Please exit promptly and wait for another vessel to arrive. Ok, kid. The man slid on a pair of sunglasses, hiding his glowing eyes. Im going to let go of you. Dont run, dont panic. Shut up and walk ahead of me where I tell you to go. Got it? What do you want with me? Didnt I say, shut up? Evan considered his phone; it was programmed with an emergency transponder. He just had to reach into his pocket and tap it to send his father an emergency ping. But hed have to play along with this guy or else he wouldnt get the chance. Sensation came to Evans head and neck. He nodded in compliance, then full control of his body returned to him. A dark green tendril slithered away from Evans back and into the strangers sleeve. Was that how he paralyzed Evan? The man twisted and grabbed the backpack. Evan plunged his hand into his pocket and pinched the transponder button underneath his phone C and prayed. His hand was out before the stranger turned back. Let''s go. An object in the mans coat pocket clinked against the bench as he prodded Evan forward. A gun? Of course it was a gun. 4: "Monster" Evan shook with each step. The stranger continued. Exit the tram and walk towards that alleyway. There was a clear gap between a couple of houses, where light from neon signs faded into pure darkness. Evan nodded, took a deep breath, and stepped outside. The Sun had melted away, and he wondered if hed live to see its golden likeness again. You dont want to mess with me, he said. My father is the Governor of the East. His enemies disappear. He cringed at having used his father as a threat like some spoiled prep student. A couple of enforcers stood amongst the crowd of exiting passengers. Evan could call out to them, but the stranger might kill him before the soldiers could do anything. His voice retreated down to his stomach. Your dads already done his worst, the stranger responded. Stop looking at the Feds. You know what? Afflicted like you are the reason why the Federation keeps hunting for mutants. The stranger scoffed, geeze, you really dont listen. Nope. Evan sprinted toward the enforcers, waving his arms high. But before he opened his mouth, he was frozen in place again and yanked into the darkness of the alleyway. The man shoved Evan against a wall. His glasses slid to the edge of his nose, allowing a sliver of his glowing eyes to show. Did anyone see? he said, but not to Evan. A moment passed, then he loosened his grip. Wait here, kid. His hand reached into Evans pocket and pulled out his thin phone. Evan strained to control his body, but paralysis held him like an invisible straight jacket. Please dont find the transponder. The stranger placed the phone inside the backpack and pressed his other hand against Evans chest. A constrictive force gripped Evans foot. A patch of grass underneath him contorted and sprouted from the dirt, as if alive. The blades pulsed and expanded into larger growths, which laced themselves in thick layers around his legs. What are you doing? Evans heart beat violently as the plants curled over him. Hes going to kill me. He struggled against the mans grasp, but the plants only tightened more with each tug. Persistent, huh? The man sighed. Relax, Im not trying to hurt you. Let me go, man! Anger and fear mixed in Evans voice. The overgrowth now covered Evan up to his nose. He felt his body again, but that didnt matter much now that he was cocooned in this plant vice. Ill be back. The stranger removed his sunglasses. His irises had returned to normal. He jogged toward to the end of the short alley; the backpack slung over his shoulder. Hey! Evan tried to shout, but the words were stifled by a mouthful of grass. The alley opened to a hill, where dozens of small houses gathered. The man made his way to one that was barely within Evans sight. The building had slanted walls and frosted glass windows. Its white paint refracted with streetlight, partially obscuring its keypad locked door. The stranger pulled a vial out of his jacket, a small ivory flower inside. He shifted the vial to the other side of his coat and slinked up to the keypad. With a few button strokes, the door slid open, then closed behind him as he disappeared within the house. This was Evans chance to escape. His powers might have been a blessing for the first time in his life. But before he tried to use them, a radio buzzed from across the road. Two enforcers proceeded up the path. Their gloved hands each tightened around submachine guns. They chattered indistinctly over their helmet radios as they marched up to the house. Evan hoped theyd come because of the transponder. One knocked on the door; he had an officers white stripe streaked across his shoulder pad. This is the FPD, open up, he said. The idea of manifesting his powers instantly dissipated from Evans mind now that the enforcers were there. Soon theyd find him and bring him home. But what about Ken, then? No response came from the house. The officer pounded the door again. Come out, or you will be detained. A window creaked open above them. The stranger tossed his vial at their feet. I dont have time for this. Leave before someone gets hurt, he said darkly. The soldiers jerked their guns up toward him. Put your hands in the air, one of them called. The man sighed. Fine, whatever you say. He thrust out his palms. His eyes radiated white again. Within the vial, the flower rippled and bulged, busting from its meek form, overcoming the insides of the glass housing. Thick vines cracked through and whipped at the Feds, wrapping around their arms, and binding them. Hes Afflicted! they barked. Stolen novel; please report. Evans eyes widened as the vines whipped around the soldiers heads. The stranger dangled a leg out of the window and sat on the edge. Playing nice now? The officer shouted muffled calls over his helmet radio. I guess not. The stranger tightened his fists, constricting the vines around their necks and yanking them to the ground. Their feet sunk deeper into the mud. Stressed breathing vented from the two as their armor popped and cracked. The radio chatter turned into screams C guttural, curdling screams C until only radio static remained. Their mangled bodies twitched under the twisting plants which sprouted new ivory flowers. The stranger dropped from the ledge and skipped over his vines to the dead bodies; his glowing eyes lasting longer this time. He snipped a single flower into another vial that hed procured from his coat, then concealed it again. After patting the bodies, he stepped away with one of their weapons, a radio earbud, and an extra magazine. He stroked the gun like a blind man reading brail. His fingers meticulously explored the firearms lines, flicking off the safety, racking the charging handle, and stopping when they found the trigger. Evan gaped at the sight of this murderer as he casually pilfered the dead soldiers. Images of meeting the same fate flipped through his mind. If this guy could kill Feds without hesitation or remorse, then what more would he do to the Governors kid? Let me go, Evan pleaded. Help! This guys Afflicted! Each word a stifled mess. Sweat washed down his face, his chest thumping. Dizziness took him, his control slipped, and power filled his entirety. The air grew hot, and gravel floated around him, dissipating, and reappearing like glitter. The stranger turned his now brown eyes to Evan. Youre Afflicted? The beat of propellers broke the air as a helicopter came barreling above the town. Armor plating glistened from neon shopping signs below as two soldiers scanned the town with mounted turrets. The stranger dipped into the opposite alleyway. He looked back and forth between Evan and the oncoming reinforcements. Finally, he disappeared. Evan exhaled his anxiety, no longer needing to escape. All right, time to stop manifesting these powers. Stop it and be normal. Be normal. But his head buzzed, and the dirt still floated around him. Abduction, murder, Afflicted C all these thoughts fused within Evans mind. His powers were now beyond stifling, and that drove him into a deeper panic. Idiot, whyd you try to use your powers? Feet clapped against the pavement, followed by the milling of radio chatter. The Feds would discover he was a freak. Theyd drag him to his father, whod have no choice but to give him up. It was either commit to the escape or lose everything. Please. He focused on his bindings. Nothing happened. The chatter came closer, hounded with the sound of guns jostling. Each call from the soldiers competed with Evans thoughts. He pushed his mind, picturing the individual strands of grass around him. A group of silhouettes emerged from the dark end of the road, outlined by helmet lights; small at first, but growing as they marched toward him. Please, please, not today. He pictured the plants snapping, imagined them dissipating out of existence. The flashlights danced across houses nearby. Come on. Heat poured through Evans body. Come, on. The twine did not budge. Please, come on, please, please, please, he chanted, each word a more desperate prayer than the last. The echoing radio speech became clearer. Higgins and Sergeant Ross are down. Repeat, confirmation of an active Afflicted in the area. Let. Me. Go, Evan sputtered. Every aspect of him strained to actualize his powers. Seizure tugged at him. His body convulsed. But he pressed his mind into submission. A rumble shook the ground. Evan quivered. The weave trembled. Blood dripped from his nose. He fought to keep his eyes from rolling back into his skull. The snare writhed, shriveled, and then evaporated into dust. Evan didnt hesitate to dive around the corner of the alley C helicopter patrolling above the streets. Its searchlight traced each path, but he stuck close to the walls. Squads of enforcers patrolled every alley. He rounded a corner, Feds. He turned again, even more. He was surrounded. There were dozens of doors, but none of them had handles, just code locks. He focused his hands on one of the panels. Just the lock, they wont notice. Panic jolted him. The entire door disintegrated. He swore. A blur of stars dashed across his eyes. Sweat seeped from his every pore. His arms burned with sharp pain and his mouth numbed. More lights trailed into the alley. He stumbled into the pitch-black house. His foot cracked against something, sending him to the floor. His body contorted and convulsed uncontrollably. Drool pooled underneath his head. His consciousness zipped away, and his thoughts spilled out, no longer sure of where or who he was. ***** Six years ago Evans heart threatened to burst. Not even the music playing in his ears could outpace the beating in his chest. His stomach was in his throat, and his nostrils had retreated at the smell of ammonia. He wished that Ken had come with him, but father made him stay at the house with his security. Are you scared? his father said, sitting next to him in a steel chair. The stain riddled purple carpet was a far more comforting sight, so Evan figured hed stare at it longer. Evangelos, the Governor repeated. Evans eyes parted with the floor and met his fathers. But they werent the squared judgmental eyes Evan had expected. These irises were the rare oval kind with raised eyebrows and tears barely in their wombs. Are you scared? Evan nodded. There was silence, and Evan wondered if he was supposed to say more. There must be something more he was supposed to do, there always was. Im sorry. His father shook his head. Its alright. So am I. Scared? You? Everything is going to be all right. His faint smile soothed Evan. For a moment, Evan believed his father, trusted that everything would be ok. He believed that the nightmare could be over, and they could go back to life like nothing had ever happened. Like he was normal. A doctor approached them. Her face was half-covered by a medical scope, a telescopic tube held in place by a little arm that was attached to the back of her head. Governor Hendricks, shes conscious. Father nodded and thanked her. Go ahead, Evangelos. Im with you. Evan sucked in a deep breath, pulled down his headphones, and dragged his feet through the doorway. Mom lay shivering, despite being wrapped in a dozen blankets. Machines and coils ran the course of the room and along her bed, beeping or lighting up in their own ways. Her eyes were closed. No her eye the other half of her face was wrapped in blood-stained linen. Will she still love me? Evan pushed himself to her bedside and took up a soft hand. Her eyelid flickered open, and she stared back him. Hey, mom. He managed a smile. She let out a croak. Mom? Evan knew she was feeling pain. Im sorry She croaked again. Help What is it? Evan reached over her for a glass of water by her bed. She flinched back and pulled deeper into the bed. Whats wrong? he asked. Her eyes widened at Evan, and she screeched. Help me... Hey, its ok. I''m here, Mom. Evan slipped his fingers back down to her hand, but she gripped the blankets tight. H-Help! she said louder. Help! As if Evan was some intruder, some beast. Hey, Mom, its me. Its me he pleaded. Help! A Afflicted! Get away from me C monster! 5: "The Stranger" the present. Am I alive? Evan sensed his hands, his toes, his breath. He opened his eyes, and the world came into dim focus. The floor was cold concrete, yet the room was warm; the low drum of a heater filling the space. Around the room were toppled barrels, shelves, and an assortment of dusty containers. To the left, more junk, and his backpack which hung from a wall hook. Behind him was an emergency exit, barred shut by a large metal crate. His arms chaffed against something as he tried to move C seemed his wrists were bound by rope to the shelving behind him. Murmurs came from behind an ajar vault door at the far side of the room, a sliver of light sneaking out of it to dance across the walls. If the enforcers had captured him, hed be handcuffed inside of an armored car on his way to some forsaken fate rather than sitting on the floor of this storage place. Evan took solace in that revelation; what little there was, anyway. He slid his legs underneath his hips to stand and shimmied his hands up behind him. The shelving unit wobbled. He winced as a glass cup tipped from the top of it and smashed into a dozen shards across the floor. The whispering from the vault stopped and the door squeaked open. The stranger emerged with another man, whose slender arms hung from a hole-ridden t-shirt; the faded words Tabula Rasa sprawled across it. His dark face was smudged with grime and oil, but his features were smooth, and his eyes warm. Evan caught a glimpse of what was inside the vault now. Dozens of computers and buzzing monitors were cobbled together around a rolling chair; if it could be called that, since it looked to be more duct-tape than chair. Well, Vihn, at least hes not dead. The slender man ran his fingers through his papery hair. Vihn, the stranger, sighed. The Feds came looking for him faster than I thought they would. I didnt have time to ditch the phone before they found me. Next time you get inspired to kidnap someone, maybe check their pockets first? The man waved at Evan, who slid back to the ground. Pockets. Evan could feel his ID still in his right pocket, and Kens in his left. Im Rowic, the thin man said. He pulled a canteen from one of the crates and offered it to Evan. Shimmers of light waded against the metal interior, and Evan welcomed the sweet water. Hed never thought hed long for water like did then. How rich the simple things were after confronting death multiple times in one day. So, youre the GK, huh? Whats the chances youd take a train seat right across from Vihn? Rowic said as he capped the canteen. Destiny, Vihn said. Rowic rolled his eyes. I guess we have agents stationed everywhere for a reason. Why were you on the train anyway, Evan? I thought your father always sent an airship to pick you up. The fact that these men spoke so confidently about Evan and his father concerned him greatly. He had to remind himself that one of these men had murdered two soldiers in broad daylight. That was enough to distrust them, not to mention the whole abduction thing. Still, he couldnt let them see his fear if he was going to maintain agency in the matter. Dust rose from the shelves and trembled by Evans will, though he didnt really know what he was doing by using his powers, he just thought itd show them he wasnt a coward. Vihn spoke coolly, Relax, kid, we dont need a show. Were all freaks here, right? The air settled. Im nothing like you terrorists, Evan said. Vihn rubbed his brow. Spare me, kid- Im not a kid. My names Evan, lets start with that. A chuckle rasped Vihns lips. Fine, Evan. Lets clear this mess a bit. Were not terrorists, were noble rebels standing up against tyranny. He said with little conviction. Now, about you. I saw you run from those Feds for your life. Somehow, you escaped the snare I had you in, and I assume you had some means to breakout based on what happened to that door I found you drooling in front of. So, whats your power, and does your father know that youre Afflicted? Its hard to believe he wouldnt. This novel''s true home is a different platform. Support the author by finding it there. Evan mulled over whether it was advantageous to give information about his Affliction or not. His father had always taught him to weigh the pros and cons, to reserve info until the last possible moment. Intel could be a great weapon, and manipulating it was the only tactic Evan had now. What do you want with me? he asked. Well, thats what were trying to figure out. Vihn knelt to Evans eye level. But I asked you a question first. Their eyes battled each other. Evan kept his silence, but inside him was chaos. Whatever this guy was after, it was worth kidnapping and murdering for. Im not Afflicted, I just want to go home, he finally said. You cant, Vihn replied. Rowic scowled. We cant keep him, man. You nabbed the son of the second most powerful man in the Federation. Hes going to be gunning for us hard. We dont even have the rest of our team. Ow! Rowic yelped as Vihn grabbed his shoulder. Interesting. It seemed Vihn didnt want Evan to know that they were the only rebels nearby. But now Evan did, which meant hed only have to focus on getting away from these two. Relaxing his hand, Vihn spoke softly. Think about it, thats the whole point. Imagine how people will react when they find out the Governor of the East has had an Afflicted son all this time? I mean, thered at least be riots over him. Im telling you, its destiny. You guys are crazy, Evan cut in. If there was such a thing as destiny, then why are people dying needlessly every day? What about the destiny of those two soldiers you killed? They were only doing their job, and you mutilated them. What kind of destiny means people dying for no reason? What kind of destiny means killing innocents? Vihn raised an eyebrow. Innocents? Youre a fool if you think any enforcer is clean. Even if only one cop is corrupt, but twenty others ignore what he does, then you dont have one bad cop C you have twenty-one. What could Evan say to that? Hed witnessed enforcers do things just as horrible as Vihn, and he couldnt pretend that they were justified for what theyd done to Ken. Youre probably right, Evan, Vihn continued. We are a bit insane. But were called the Blood Red Army for a reason. Wouldnt be living up to our name if there wasnt some blood spilt now and then. Evans heart dropped. The Blood Red Army? Youre the guys who started the Affliction. Vihn sighed. We can debate about history later, Rowic said. The Governors going to be looking for his kid, man. Hell rally the whole East Coast if he has to. We were supposed to be flying back to Alpha with the rest of the team by now, but its suicide for them to try and extract us with the Feds swarming the town. Geeze, Vihn. If you had waited, Blink could have solved this whole thing before it even started. Vihn argued, There wasnt time to tell the others. The tram was coming into Hazard Station and I Look, the Governors kid is a mutant freak, running around under the radar; think about that. Ill bet hell do anything to keep this a secret. Thats what scares me, Rowic said. Evan asked, So, you kidnapped me to get to my father. What about the other three Governors? What about President Caine? Vihn licked his teeth, perhaps he was getting impatient. Its not easy running a transcontinental empire from Canada to Chile. Affliction here in the East, foreign invasion in the North, rumors of succession from the West coast, and civil war in South America? Its a lot for an empire to handle. History repeats itself, kid. The Federation is just as at risk of burning out as the rest of us. If there was a time for the whole system to collapse, its now. Evan refused to be someones pawn. He formulated a plan to escape. It seemed these rebels werent intent on killing him, so he had time. He just had to disintegrate the ropes binding him, and then the wall, then run without passing out this time. He took a deep breath and focused on the rope. In the meantime, further embellishing the idea of his fathers potential desperation could help keep the two rebels arguing long enough for him to escape, or maybe give up all together. He tried not to think about how he was about to use his father as a threat for the third time in one day. My dad has spent years hiding my identity, he said. Youre an idiot if you think hell let two goons like you get away with this. People who mess with us go missing. Vihn didnt respond, he just stared at Evan like he did on the train, with snakes eyes. Evan didnt budge either, despite the thumping in his chest. Someone knocked on the door to Evans right, breaking the stare-down. Vihn slid open a window in the door. Another mans face filled the opening. A long, red beard mossed over his neck, mixing into expansive tattoos of sea creatures. Uproarious laughter and the clinking of glass flowed in. Smoke and vape gripped the atmosphere. A guitar, drums, and indistinguishable voices played from speakers. Evan guessed it was classic rock playing, though hed hardly be the one to know. It was rare to hear music with real vocals and instrumentalists. Most modern music had been replaced by AI systems that created procedural rhythms and beats that responded to a listeners emotions. It was impressive thinking that the rock had to be played by master musicians all in sync. Evan caught himself nodding to it, but it was the wrong time to admire music. He focused on the rope again, but it was already gone. His hands were free. His power must have worked without him realizing. Vihn wasnt looking, but Rowic was. So, instead of running, Evan kept his hands together as if they were still tied and listened to what the rebels had to say. The red-beard on the other side of door whispered to Vihn, Feds are knocking down doors, probably us soon. Want me to clear the place? Vihn shook his head. Were dead if you do. Keep things normal, were going to have to risk it in the vault. The man grunted, then turned away as Vihn closed the door window. Vihn motioned to the vault room. Were running out of time. Well talk inside there. Im going to untie you; please dont do anything stupid this time. He stooped to Evan and fumbled for the rope, which wasnt there. The stranger smirked. Freaky and impressive. He hoisted Evan to his feet. The moment for escape had passed once again. 6: "He Who Is Death" Evan reluctantly followed Rowic and Vihn into the small shelter just beyond the vault door, which Vihn closed behind them. Thick cushioned walls faded with grease stains surrounded this smaller room. Gaps in the cushioning revealed the hard shell of lead walls. Giant monitors and keyboards populated half of the space. The monitors were overcome with thick coils of wires and piping. The interior of a pub could be seen on one of the computer screens to the right. It had long tables, overtaken by dozens of patrons, and high stools with solitary drinkers at a bar counter. A purple backlight illuminated an array of beers and scotches, upstaged by several knobs of tap beer. A large metal sign hung on the sidewall, Chill Pub and Grill, it said. The bearded man worked behind the counter, tending to a small group of patrons. In the vault, Rowic dropped himself into the rolling chair and slid toward the keyboards. His hands stroked the keys in rapid succession. Evan was certain this had been the hacker who controlled the drone and tram earlier. Feeds of a Federation inquisition displayed on the other monitors C dozens of soldiers busting in doors, patrolling alleys, and scanning the IDs of rounded up pedestrians. Man, they want you bad, Rowic said. Vihn frowned. Nothing changes. Evan couldnt tell if the enforcers were searching for him, the rebels, or both. He debated if he wanted the Feds to find him or not. Maybe his father had already orchestrated a way to rescue Ken, making Evans rogue mission pointless. How would Evan manage to find his friend anyway? Conversely, if his father had given up on Ken, there might never be another chance to save his friend again. No decision felt right, and so his mind squabbled, his decision window closing with each moment. A deep pound of hydraulics reverberated from outside, drawing the attention of Evan and the rebels to the pubs feed. A squad of four soldiers advanced inside, followed by a monster of machinery. It was a robotic suit of white armor, more than twice the size of an average person. Protruding from the top of the suit was a brick-of-a-man''s face, which had deep scars and sun-darkened skin. His muscles moved in synergy with the suit, akin to a medieval knight. Armor plates shifted with each step, revealing rubber joints and strips of light. A floating metal halo spun evenly just above his buzzcut head. His pupils twitched independently, reflective with inner amber lights, retracting and expanding like focusing camera lenses. Great, spouted Vihn from within the vault. Purifier. Rowic clicked off several switches and toggles. The monitors and systems whined as they powered off, except for a single feed of the pub. The room became silent, interrupted only with the stowaways low breathing and the rumbling heater. The suited man prowled the pub, a bipedal gorilla. His eyes scanned the patrons with the dour gaze of a hawk. The patrons held silence, hunched over their drinks, adverting eye contact with the soldiers. The bartender turned up the music volume and then continued to wipe down the countertop. The armored ape-man approached the bar, bumping tables and chairs with quivering people in them. The wood floor depressed underneath each of his steps. He stopped at the counter and stretched out his large, gauntleted hand. His palm lit up with a blue projection of the bartenders face, lines of text scrolling beside it. Did you know this text is from a different site? Read the official version to support the creator. The purifiers voice was like rolling thunder, heralding a coming storm. Zachary Stenson, D5-1002. Let out of incarceration with indefinite travel and familial restrictions. Past involvement with militant rebels. Letting out a deep sigh, Zachary lowered a hand underneath the counter. His fingers brushed over a concealed pump shotgun. The purifiers eyes followed this movement, almost as if he could see Zacharys hand as it slipped further down to a beer glass. His focus shifted to the back wall. Inside the vault, Vihn motioned with his finger to stay silent. The purifier turned his right ear in their direction and ordered, Music. Zachary nodded and rotated the knob of the archaic sound system. The rock seeped away. As this happened, Rowic flipped a toggle and a deep tone pressured Evans ears. The purifier stood still as a statue. Cold sweat beaded over Evan. The rhythm of his heart felt louder than anything else in the room. He caught himself as he almost let out a breath. After minutes that seemed like hours, the purifier surveyed the pub one last time, and then followed the soldiers outside. The group exhaled. Rowic turned on the other monitors and off whatever device had created pressure in Evans ears. Zachary met Vihn at the door again. Looks like that junky system still works. This work of art just made sure wed live another day, Rowic shouted from within the vault, and massaged his keyboard lovingly. Well, whatever you call it, those Feds looked like tools out there. Zachary fed a rich brown bottle through the small window. Guess I lost the bet. Im going to lock up for the night. Thanks for the sanctuary so late notice. Vihns grin was as strong as his grasp on the bottle. Rest easy, rebel man. Rowic swiveled to Vihn as the bartender walked away. Looks like Joseph Krows still kicking. He has upgrades too. Vihn leaned against a terminal. None of this is working out. I told you this was how itd end up. Evan wondered where hed be if he hadnt triggered the transponder. The purifier was horrifying, but if anyone could save someone from Afflicted rebels, it was him. Noticing an opportunity, Evan pressed into the rebels fears. Like I said, the Governor wont stop until he saves me. Let me go and theyll forget about you. Vihn smiled dismissively. Theres little we can do right now with the Feds running around. Well deal with all this tomorrow when the rest of the team shows up. But dont worry, kid. We have a plan thatll make sure you make it out of here with us. Yeah? Whats to stop me from blowing a hole in the wall and getting that purifier to stop you? Try it. Evan knew he couldnt. And if he could, more people would die. More blood to his name. That wasnt who he was, not who he wanted to be, not how he wanted to solve his problems. Vihn said, We both know you dont have much control over your power. Itd be funny seeing you flop around on the floor again, though. Evan socked him in the face. The terrorist stumbled back. Rowic jumped from his chair. The heat of power built up in Evan. He didnt know where the impulse came from, but he felt the buzz of adrenaline. Was that the first time hed ever thrown a punch? His knuckles ached, but it was worth it to see the surprise on Vihns face. Vihn waved his hand and massaged his jaw while chuckling. Ok, now youve hit me, whats next, kid? You cant use your powers because you might not be able to stop once you really get going. What happens when Krow sees what you are? You think your father is going to be able to control that beast from ripping you apart? Trust me, junior. He dropped his hand and backed Evan up. I know Krow. He C will C kill C anyone. Old lady, suckling babe, scrawny teenager. Being a GK doesnt matter to him because he only has one directive: Puri-freaking-fy. Evan took a deep breath and the power seeped away from him. He was trapped, and this man knew it. He focused on a clear goal: Save his friend without anyone else getting hurt C If he could accomplish that, then he didnt care what happened to him. Hed have to bide his time, though. Thered be an opening, and hed be ready. What was once good could be good again. Monster. Always a pro at making friends, my guy, Rowic said. Vihn flashed him a rude gesture. Rowic clucked his tongue. Someone needs a nap. Spending the night with Afflicted rebels in a vault hidden behind a sketchy bar was far from how Evan expected his day to go. When they fell asleep, thats when Evan could make his escape. 7: "That Day" - Six years ago Six years ago Evan lay on a beach next to his father, breathing in a moment of peace. The sand burned; not a scalding kind of burn, but with the warmth of a million squishy grains pulling him down into the earth as ripples of water chased after his toes. Music poured from his phone, melding with the sky and waves so that it was hard to tell what beauty belonged to the world or to the instruments. Evan could have stayed there on that beach with his father forever, but even the Sun was forced to retreat from the encroaching night. His dad smiled with his eyes closed and patted Evans arm with a coarse hand. Happy double-digits, son. Then came his mothers sharp voice from far off. Evangelos. Evan turned to her, a false note in an otherwise perfect symphony. His mom stood in the doorframe of their beach home. She was a slender woman with reddened eyes that wilted even when she smiled; though, that day there was no smile. Father hadnt budged. She called again, her voice a taught chord, Evangelos. Yes, Laura? Father asked flatly. Its happening, she said. He sat up; his expression hardened. Evan stopped the music. Whats happening? he asked. His father turned to him. Lets say goodbye to your guests for today, its gotten late. They hurried inside their home, where servants swept away the remnants of wrapping paper and dinner plates around the living room and kitchen. Leave it, Father ordered. The servants obeyed, making their way out of the house. Evan searched for his party guests, but it seemed that they had already been ushered out by Fathers security, except for some business associates and Ken, who stared out the front window. It was lame that none of the others had waited to say goodbye. Though, he knew they had only come to the party because their parents worked with his. Ken was the only one invited by Evan (not without resistance from Mom). He wasnt normal, according to her. Ken waved at Evan. Hi. Hey. Whats happening? Evan asked. Ken shrugged. His glasses made his eyes look cartoonish, and his nose and head were a bit on the rounder side. He chewed on the collar of his shirt, which always meant he was nervous. Evan patted his back. Hey, thanks for coming to my party. It wouldnt be fun without you. Was fun, Ken mumbled. He also gave shorter answers when he was stressed C stress which spread to Evan. They watched the street together, but there wasnt much to see besides a line of cars leaving the gated community. A television rasped with the voice of a news guy, Terran Lucky. He was a stiffed-backed man with a tight collar that aligned perfectly with his jaw. It is official. The Purifier Initiative will be implemented starting immediately, he said. President Nero Caine has the following announcement. Father stared at the TV, while Mother paced behind a couch. Their closest associates huddled around them, whispering. Evan usually ignored these broadcasts; but this time it was hard to tune out. Today marks the age of unification. The decades of war are finally over. Scary, Ken said. Evan agreed. Lets go to my room. Your room, Ken repeated. The two scrambled up a short flight of stairs to a bedroom flooded with clothes. Ken immediately sat crisscrossed on a small bench that faced the outside window. We have been plagued and ripped apart by arrogance. Today, we will become a whole nation. The TV was loud enough that President Caines muffled voice had followed them upstairs, despite Evan having closed the door. He tried to ignore it, until the last line demanded to be heard. Today, we will be reborn and finally undo the curse. We will undo separation. We will undo the Titan Project. Undo the Titan Project, Ken said. The speech sounded like every other speech Evan had heard before. Hed known few students from school were sent away for being sick with Affliction. But the Titan Project was something hed never heard of before. The author''s content has been appropriated; report any instances of this story on Amazon. Undo the Titan Project, Ken repeated, but this time in a deeper voice. Biting his collar and copying voices C that was his thing. Undo the Titan Project, he said in perfect mimicry of the President, including the muffled nature of the TV stream, along with some quirky facial twitching. He was doing it again. Evan swung the door closed and stuffed a bundle of clothes under the crack to block the sound. Ken said the whole speech now as if he had been the original source. It was his power, his Affliction. Hed had the ability since hed turned eleven, not even Evans parents knew about it. Evan was supposed to tell them, but he didnt want Ken to be sent away, so he hid his friends power whenever he got like this. Evan sat next to Ken who repeated the speech on loop. Its ok, man. Everythings ok. Its over. He patted his friends back, and the mimicry stopped. Its ok, E-friend, its ok, Ken agreed. Evan sighed. I think its time to go home, buddy. Somethings outside. What? Evans joined Ken at the window. Now he knew fear. A line of cars had been halted at the community gate by a wall of armored Federation vehicles. Dust kicked into the air as a small hovercraft circled above the streets. A voice called out from the sky, Stay in your homes and vehicles. Federation personnel will approach you momentarily. Please be prepared to offer your citizenship identification. A procession of tiny eyeball-like drones swept over the streets to the line of cars and community of houses, accompanied by squads of enforcers. Families stepped out to meet with the soldiers as the drones scanned them and their IDs. After a moment, the soldiers would nod to each other and then pass to the next person. The Federation never bothered people in this neighborhood before. It was like a bad dream. Evan wanted to look away, as if ignorance would make it stop, but he hungered to see what would happen. He pulled the curtains closed and held them tight to his eye so he could still see outside. Hes not sick, Ken said in another mans voice. The act jolted Evan. He recognized the voice, and it was clear who Ken was copying. A drone had scanned a kid from Evans birthday party, Lucas. His parents worked with his Father in the mayors office. Lucas was as neat as they came C clean hair, clean sweater. He never cried or yelled: quiet kid altogether. But right now, snot ran down his lips in all directions as he sobbed. Evan felt sorry for him, but he didnt know why he should be. Maybe it was because he hated to see a nice kid like Lucas crying so much. Lucas mom pulled him back while his dad argued with two soldiers. Evan pressed his ear to the window but couldnt make out what they were saying. Thankfully, Kens powers made him an excellent speaker system. Scan him again, Ken said in the dads voice. One of the soldiers shook her head. That wont change anything. Do it, you Ken stopped the translation. He swore. Evan let out a nervous chuckle. Thats okay, buddy, just skip that part. Ken continued with the soldier, Your son registered as Afflicted positive on this quarters national blood test. According to the Purifier Initiative Act, we are authorized to detain him immediately. Please, Lucas mom pleaded. Please. Hes not one of them, hes not. Try again. The soldiers reached for Lucas. You cant take him! His dad punched the lead officer. Evan hoped it would end there. Maybe theyd just be upset and write them a ticket or something. But no, it didnt stop there, and Evan couldnt find the strength to look away. The mom shrieked a horrible cry. The other soldier bashed the back of the dads head with a rifle, dropping him to the ground. He didnt move. Ken and Evan looked wide eyed at each other in utter shock. They both turned to look outside again. The mom yanked Lucas behind her. Hes not one of them, she cried, Ken continuing to relay her words. Hes not one of those things. At this point, Ken had picked out Lucas crying, and intertwined it with the moms yelling. Mommy! Evan had enough. Cut it out, Ken. Hes not one of them! Give him back, give him back! Mommy! Mommy! Stop it! Evan shoved Ken off the bench, breaking the power. Ken stared at Evan with whimpering eyes. Hurt me, E-friend. Im-Im sorry. I didnt mean it. He pulled Ken back up. A rapping came from outside. Evan ran back to the window and saw that the nightmare had spread to his home as well, as soldiers with an eyeball-drone entered through his homes front door. Only one thing came to mind: hide. Come on, buddy. Evan grabbed Ken by the arm and made for the door but was stopped by the sound of clambering feet and muffled voices coming up the stairs. Hes in my sons room, officers, Ken said, copying Evans mom. Then came his father. Laura. What? They asked to see him. They have no rightC Evan shushed Ken and tugged him underneath the bed. They tried as best as they could to pile clothing around the gaps, leaving a small space to peek through. The door creaked open. Four sets of feet entered: Two sets of black boots, a set of heels, and a set of bare sand-covered toes. They were here, Mother said. Evans heart rattled in his chest. Please dont find my friend, please dont find him. A rhythmic hum closed in on the bed. The drone poked over the wall of clothes, peering directly at Evan. The wall of clothes toppled as two gloved hands dragged him out. He kicked, he pulled back, but it was a useless effort as he was yanked up by a soldier. Another brought Ken to his feet. Most light was voided out by their dark blue body armor, covered in pockets and magazines, rifles slung over their shoulders. They held on to Evan and Ken, their half-visored heads turning to Father. Father glanced at Ken; his arms crossed. He scowled at Laura, then closed his eyes. Go ahead. Dad? Evan always trusted his father, but this was wrong. The drone scanned Ken. There was nothing Evan could do but wait, hoping that the soldiers werent going to take his friend. The men nodded to each other, then turned to Ken. Kenneth Doleson, you, and your parents have each tested positive for Affliction. Come with us compliantly for everyones safety. Heart hammering, Evan jumped in front of Ken and shouted, Leave him alone. The air grew hot, like summer winds wrapping around him. Evan! Mom scolded. Theyre not taking my friend. As his anger flared, so did a sensation that he was melting, like the world could turn to ash before him. His mom grasped at his arm. This needs to happen. This isnt about us, Evan. Evan yanked back. No. He cant hurt anyone, he just makes funny voices, thats it! She grabbed him, her nails digging into his arms. Its going to be ok, love. No! he shouted, breaking her grasp on him. Its okay. She reached for him again, that lying smile taking form. He shoved her hands away. In a snap of time, half of her smile disappeared, along with half of her face. Blood spurted across the room as his mom dropped to the ground writhing, cupping at the fleshy mess that used to be her cheek. Evan fell back to his bed, his vision blurring, looking over his his hands. No, they couldnt be his hands. He couldnt be Hes one of them his father gasped. The soldiers drew their rifles. Evan shielded his face, and his enemies were no more. 8: "People Start Dying" the present. The clink of a glass bottle woke Evan, having fallen asleep wrapped in a thermal sleeping bag. Waiting for the rebels to sleep first hadnt worked. Sure, Rowic lay swaddled in his own sleeping bag, but Vihn sat awake at the monitors. His body glistened under the blue light as he swayed back and forth in the rolling chair, right to left, the bottle in his hand clinking hollowly against the console with each pass. Evan pushed himself up and walked over to Vihn. If overpowering him wasnt possible, and out sleeping him had failed, maybe talking might work. The stranger stared blankly at the photo of the blonde in his other hand. Do you ever sleep? Evan asked. Vihn sniffed. I might sneak in two hours on a good day. Evan studied the monitors. The streets were empty except for neon phantoms of shadows and billboards. It looks like all the soldiers are gone. Looks that way, but thats not the case. We only have so many cameras, and theyve figured out where. Theyre hiding in our blind spots and left the cameras operating so wed think it was safe. If they knew we were here, why wouldnt they attack right now. Vihn shook his head. They probably dont know our exact location, or how many of us there are. Rowics running a scrambler that tricks their scanners. They could keep busting down every door, but Hazard Station has a tenuous relationship with authority. Its not worth the risk of provoking a riot. They can wait us out. You know a lot about their tactics, Evan said in a deliberately inspired tone, hoping to encourage further discussion, see what useful info he could glean. He admittedly realized how forced his inflexion may have sounded. Im not a master of conversation, he had to remind himself. Not a master of anything really. But it wasnt the time to wallow in self-doubt. I do, Vihn said. A few of the members in our cell are ex-enforcers. Ex-enforcers? Hard to imagine any enforcer would live long enough in the presence of someone like Vihn. So, Evan asked, then how do you plan on escaping with me? Vihn didnt speak, he just pointed at a black dot on one of the screens, a smudge that glided past the Moon. Whats that? Ad Astra, my airship. The Blood Red Army? Yep. Kind of a dumb name, Evan said, detecting Vihns tone as an internal eyeroll. Vihn nodded. Pretentious name, idealistic group. Thats why we keep dying. Is that why you created the Affliction? Thought life would be better with some powers? Life always sucked, and still does. And we didnt create the Affliction, kid. Thats just propaganda. But why ask me? You wont believe anything I say. Vihns head swooned. I guess I probably owe you some answers. No, we didnt create the Affliction You know, Andrea loves to talk about this crap, you should really ask her. Who? Our fearless leader. The Ark, some call her. You dont sound like youre convinced by her nickname. Vihn rolled his head back. Maybe shes less of our salvation, and more the queen of idealistic fools. His vulnerability was bleeding to the surface. Evan devised how to exploit it and open an opportunity for escape. You dont seem to like her much. Why do you follow her? he asked. The stranger stayed silent for a moment, and Evan couldnt tell if it was because of drunkenness or contemplation; perhaps a bit of both mixed with a healthy amount of exhaustion. Finally, Vihn said, you ask a lot of questions, kid. What makes you so interested? Evan shrugged. Just seems like youre following a cause you dont believe in. Why dont you just leave them? Cant. Why? Because... Vihns voice grew taught. Theyre all the family I have since politicians like your father killed the others. The photo in his hand crinkled in a tightening grasp. If only Vihn knew what Evans father had done to protect him since the beginning, and how he was the farthest thing from a murderer compared to Vihn. But rather than defend his dad, which Evan doubted would get him anywhere, he tugged on Vihns lose emotional threads. He asked, was that her in the photo? Your family? Vihn shook his head. Thats Farfa. Ongoing chapter of my life. He flicked the picture onto the desk. Love or something? Something. Vihn propped his elbows on the desk and rested his chin on his interlaced fingers, dangling the bottle loosely. Evan sat on the edge of the desk. Look, man, I dont know anything about this stuff. But I have someone I care about too, a couple of people, and I need to help them before its too late. I have a goal too, kid. Evan scoffed. To ransom me? Try and rally the people against my father? No one will believe you, and he wont pay. Vihn smiled thinly. I get the feeling that you understand your father less than you realize. No, ransom isnt the point, not anymore anyway. For years the Feds have been rounding us up, killing us, putting us in jails, enslaving us C all for the greater good of society. When people find out about you, and the lies the Governor has been telling, that might just be the push we need to overturn people like your dad; maybe the whole system will topple with him. Evan had always imagined that his powers could threaten his fathers career, but not the Federation all together. Again, being used was the last thing he wanted to be. Im not going to be your pawn. Sorry, but in life, you dont get to choose. Not even kings or queens do. You were born with your role, and I was born with mine. Were all just guided by an invisible hand, while we cry out for freedom, for a choice, but in the end not mattering enough to even be heard. Anger boiled up in Evan. Destiny. No, he wasnt going to sit by and let people he cared about keep dying because it was meant to be that way. He determined his life now. His emotions must have bled to the surface, because Vihns face tightened. Alright, kid. This bottles set my head straight. Lets test fate, then. He let the bottle slip from his fingers. It clinked against the floor and drifted against the chairs leg, somehow not waking Rowic. If I wake up and youre not still here, then Im wrong and you can call me on my BS. Evan opened his mouth to rebuttal but caught his words when he realized that his plan might have worked. This might be fun. Vihn folded his arms and leaned back in the chair. Hey! If you can challenge destiny, maybe I can too, huh? He chuckled. If you spot this story on Amazon, know that it has been stolen. Report the violation. Evan yanked on his hair victoriously when Vihn finally closed his eyes and began snoring shortly after. Now was Evans chance to get away from these psychopaths. The vault door had no handle or crank. Evan searched for something to open it but found nothing. Instead, he put his hands against the wall next to it, sucked in a deep breath, and fell forward as the whole thing disintegrated at his fingertips. His mind spun, but this time he was ready for it. He allowed himself to breathe a moment, keeping his incapacitated captors within eyesight. Once hed recovered, he swiped his backpack from the shelves and left through a back exit. His heart leapt as something beeped when he passed through the door, but when he turned back, the rebels still slept. He shook it off and bounded into the night. The Moon hung lazily above the town. The road was glossed over with the wetness of expired rain. Tiny clouds formed in front of Evans lips with each exhale. He hugged the shadows on his way to the tram station, careful not to walk into the Moons shining blanket. He wasnt sure what the Feds would do if they caught him, but he decided to play it safe rather than risk any more drama. When he saw the trams light, he expected to feel a burden lift from him, finally able to wake up from this fever dream and get back to trying to find Ken. Then a humming came from behind. Evan turned. Bright beams of light sped toward him. He dove out of the way. An armored car swerved in front of him C F.D.P.D. sprayed across its thick side. A side door popped open. Two enforcers jumped out. He stumbled backward and ran down an alley. Something bit his leg. Electricity jolted throughout his entire body. He fell to the ground, twitching from the shock of a stun dart in his thigh. The two Feds carted Evan inside of the cramped vehicle. He couldnt get a hold of his thoughts, other than flashes of his friend going through the same situation. The Feds brought him back through the front door of the pub. At the far side of the room stood the purifier, Joseph Krow, his metal halo floating above his head like an angels. Opposite Krow sat Zachary the bartender, handcuffed to a chair. Bruises clotted his features. A chord stretched from his arm to a heart monitor. The Feds placed Evan in a chair next to him. Krow held his gauntlet out to Evans face, big enough to crush his skull, and read the text that emitted from it. Evangelos Hendricks Junior, B3-1984, son to Governor Evangelos Hendricks. Missing persons report filed yesterday at 1800 hours. The projection dissipated as he lowered his arm and faced Evan. The perimeter alarm we placed here was triggered upon your exiting of the pub. The purifiers eyes traced Evan. Then locked on his backpack. I saw this in the back of the pub earlier this evening, held in the back storage room. You were not seen or heard, however. The purifier studied the back wall. Separate chamber. Lead walls. Tonal filtration... His voice trailed. This is it; hes going to figure out Im Afflicted or mistake me for a rebel. Zachary coughed. He was just staying at the pub for the night, he came back from the market right after you left. Evan looked at the bartender, who didnt look back. Probable. Krow reached behind the bar. He ripped the shotgun out from behind it. It squished between his fingers, the parts plopping to floor. Then he turned to Zachary. Possession of firearms is restricted from D class personal. Execution is marked as sufficient punishment for your breach of law. What? Leave him alone! Evan stood in protest. He must have looked like the biggest idiot. Evan, a pool noodle, standing up to King Kong. The Governor, sent you to find me, right? Im here, take me home already. But Krow kept his eyes locked on Zachary. If you have any revelations regarding local Afflicted, your sentence may be postponed or modified. Zachary held silent. Evans heart raced. How could the bartender be so willing to die without giving up Evan or the others? He could tell Krow everything; Evan''s Affliction, the vault, Vihn and Rowic. Was he really going to sacrifice himself to protect them? If that was the case, Evan wasnt about to let another person die for him. Power radiated from him, cracking the floorboards beneath his feet. That got Krows attention, but nothing changed in those artificial eyes of his. Im an idiot. Evangelos. Your Affliction is noted. Krow barely swatted Evans shoulder, yet his body crashed back into the chair. Evans spine cracked. He rolled, clawing at the searing pain. Krows gauntlet wrapped around the bartenders head. Zachary closed his eyes. End it. Joseph Krows grip tightened around Zacharys skull. Grunts of anguish ran from Zacharys mouth. The feeling of power itched within Evans chest. Hes dying because of you, you freaking twig. He cried as the pain in his back held him to the ground. Zacharys face turned dark red, and his eyes ran bloodshot. Agony expelled from his lips. The hydraulics of the purifier hissed with increasing pressure. The floorboards beneath Evan crackled into tiny splinters. Move! He forced himself up. Two stun darts found their way into Evans body, and double the pain sent him curling to the ground again. All he could manage was to shout, What are you doing? Protecting the Federation, Krow said. His gauntlet cracked through the bartenders skull; blood spurted over his fingers. Zacharys shrieking stopped. The lifeless body slumped as the purifier pulled away. Evan screamed. Tears flooded his eyes. You killed him! You killed him! His pain turned to deep hatred. He didnt do anything! He imagined Joseph Krows head crushed, too. The atmosphere blazed with heat from Evans powers. The stun darts melted. Krow wiped his gauntlet with a white cloth. Governor Hendricks secondary directive is complete. The primary directive to extract Evangelos Jr. is compromised. Secondary directive? What was the first? To kill? The past flooded Evans mind. His mother lay on the floor, squirming in her own blood, cursing her son for what he had done. For what he would do now. If you want a monster C then here I am, Evan said. Dust and blood floated into the air, taking him up with it as he envisioned this murderers death. Flecks of the purifiers skin tore from his cheek. The mans eyes widened. The halo above his head materialized into a full helmet that hid away face. Evan floated a foot from the ground. He could feel the deepest threads of reality around him, all of creation in its smallest form; and he was nothing compared to it. His powers torrented out of his control. A gust of force pushed everything and everyone away from Evan. Krow skidded backward across the floorboards. Panels opened on the sides of his feet, shooting short braces out from them, cracking through the floor, and stabilizing his body while the other Feds tumbled over each other. The familiar strain of seizure rocked Evan. His body continued in its cataclysm. The power peeled away parts of the purifiers helmet around his face, revealing a sliver of Krow''s amber eye. A blue glow radiated throughout the lining of his suit. He reared back his gauntlet and thrust it at Evan. Propulsions of circular waves shot from his fist and slammed Evan over the bar and against shelves of liquor. Wood and glass exploded in a shower of alcohol. Evan sputtered for breath. Heavy pressure wrapped around his chest and back as the liquor rushed down his face. The Federation soldiers pulled themselves out from under toppled tables and chairs. One soldier shrieked like a child, dangling upside down, blood gushing from his legs which were fused to the wall. Joseph Krows feet unlocked, and he walked toward Evan. Evangelos, your Affliction is a danger to this nation. Your assault on Federation personal is treason. Execution is marked as sufficient punishment for your breach of law. Evan gurgled through blood, unable to speak. His body was numb, and he could barely think. Each beat of his heart matched with the solid steps of the purifier; whose gauntlet ignited again. Then vines cracked through the back wall and meshed around Evan. The gauntlet fired. The plants ruptured against the blast. Another wave of tendrils ripped through and pulled Evan into the storage room. Gunfire crackled after him. More vines burst from the ground, catching the bullets. Vihn dashed behind the cover of his plants and flung Evan over his shoulder. Great lashes of flame spewed from Joseph Krows gauntlet, grasping across the vines, and igniting them in plumes of orange, yellow, and black. Vihn rushed Evan out of the back exit toward a green Jeep, where Rowic sat as the driver. Evan''s vision faded, his body twitching. Hang in there, kid. Vihn laid Evan in the backseat of the Jeep. Vihn wiped away the glow in his eyes and jumped into the passengers seat. The vehicle burst forward. They killed him, man, they cracked open his head, did you see? Oh god, man! Rowic cried out. Theyll kill us too if you dont focus on driving! Vihn cocked the submachine gun he had taken from the dead Feds earlier. He pressed a finger against his ear. Phoenix, rabbit is running, requesting capture. Engines grunted behind the Jeep. Two Federation armored trucks barreled after them. The Jeep swiveled across the pavement out of the town. A hatch popped open on top of the lead truck, followed by an armed soldier. Vihn spewed a wild sigh as he leaned out the left window with the submachine gun and fired several bursts. A sharp turn threw Vihn against the window frame. The weapon tumbled from his hands out onto the road. Rowic! Hang on- The back window cracked as something zipped above Evans face, and into Rowics shoulder. Crimson splattered across the dashboard. The Jeep swerved again. Oh, god! Rowic slumped against the steering wheel. Vihn lunged across Rowics body and guided the vehicle from the passengers seat. The sky sputtered with the thumping of propellers. The helicopter was back. Dozens of emotions filtered through Evans mind: fear, dread, desperation, and most prominently: anger. He steadied his breath, faced the Federation chopper, and pulled for focus from each corner of his thoughts. Cycles of fury directed his motions. He thrust his right hand at the air, his left-hand gripping onto the seat. A burning sensation shot through his chest. The flying machine remained unaffected. He pushed harder to focus. Evans vision tunneled, blackness pouring in from the edges of his sight. He could feel the whirl of propellers. Air thrummed against his palm. There was a smell, a deep, musky smell of burning oil. Evan clenched his hand. He could imagine each of the rotating blades in against his fingers. He clenched his fingers into a fist. One of the blades snapped in half, raining shrapnel across the road. The helicopter spun to the earth like a top and pounded into the lead truck in a blaze of fire. The second truck ramped off the debris and flipped through the air. The gunman flew into the ground as the truck crushed him from above. Holy- Rowics voice faded as Evan fell back into the seat. Muffled sounds rung against his ears. A shimmering hull of metal descended from the sky. A white light flashed before Evans eyes, an angel, welcoming him to the end. 9: "The Blood Red Army" Evan jerked awake, matted in sweat. If he was dead, then he certainly hadnt made it to heaven. First, he smelled mildew and rust, then he noticed grime-streaked metal floors. Strips of lights around this room produced a muddy glow over everything. Scattered wires chased the corners of the room. Brass pipes created a labyrinth of humming metal along four walls and into a vented roof. Though, it was more of a closet than a room, with the right and left walls close enough for Evan to touch at the same time. Behind him was a rack of boxes, and ahead of him a sealed door with a turn-wheel. His brown coat stretched over his body like a blanket, while he lay on a yellow stained mattress on top a raised metal slab. The night replayed in his mind. The bartenders death rattled him. Crunch. Thud. Crunch. Thud. He sunk back to the mattress which might as well have been a bed of nails. I killed people, again. He thought. I gave in, just like everyone said I would. The mutilated bodies of soldiers wracked his brain. But they would have killed me if I hadnt done something. His stomach churned. Brisk air nipped at his chest. My chest. His body was stiff underneath his thick coat. He sat up, yanked it off, and slid his hands in search of the damage Krow had done to him. Instead, his fingers glided over slick green vines that hugged his skin tightly. Purple bruises peaked between gaps in the plants. It felt like someone was squeezing his lungs as he took shaky breaths. He ripped off the vines and prodded his body in disbelief. Everything was in the right place, even where he was certain he should have broken bones. It was still too dim to see, despite the strip lights, but he could feel that the damage had been reduced to small creases where the skin was scarred by what may have been surgical incisions. He sat forward, his body shaking. The Feds had to know he was Afflicted now, there was no hiding it after what he did in Hazard Station. All those years protecting his secret were wasted C his moms death, his dads careful planning, and his friends sacrifice C all of it. He should have never boarded that train. The door creaked open. He prepped himself for what might step through it C but he wasnt ready for it to be a normal looking girl. Her blonde hair was pulled back into a ponytail except for a collection of bangs that brushed across her cheek and over green eyes. A cross necklace swayed around her thin neck. She wore a grey sweater and black pants, both with their share of holes and frayed stitching. Her lips curled into a smirk; her voice led by grand dimples. Cool, she said. White light enveloped her. Evan blinked and she was gone, leaving behind nothing but an open door. He stared blankly at the spot where she had been, certain he wasnt insane (or maybe he was). Hes awake! Came the girls voice again, a muffled thing, like an echo dancing through a metal cave. Once again, Evan crossed Federation custody off his list, uncomfortably certain hed been dragged deeper into the rabbit hole that was the Blood Red Army. His fathers voice replayed in his head. The key to a position of power is to act before forced to react. So, Evan willed himself to stand and zipped up his coat. The front was stained with an unfortunate muddy red splotch. He swallowed the musty air and stepped through the door, ready to confront these people. He found himself in a narrow corridor. To his left was a hatch with the words Port Turret Controls. To the right were a couple more doors before the hall curved out of sight, and where voices murmured. Clank! Hjole! came a womans voice, followed by a muffled boom. What was that? a familiar voice shouted. The woman responded with a string of curses. Cold metal grating vibrated beneath Evans bare feet as he crept around the corner. Another, smoother voice, called back. Ny dropped her tools and is taking it out on Addie. Daniel, Im going to kill you, the woman said. A younger girl interrupted. Hellooooo, did anyone hear me? Sorry, I meant Shrapnel, is trying to blow us up, the smooth voice corrected. The familiar voice grumbled, Well, stop that. The woman let off another barrage of expletives. The young girl cleared her throat. I saaiiid- What am I about to walk into? Evan thought as he rounded the corner into an open room. The walls were lined with flight seats and straps. A man lay in the right section with his legs stretched out. He held up a tablet and swiped through its display. At the center of the room was a compartment where someone worked head deep; grated panels shunted to the side. There was another hall at the opposite side of this room where the blonde girl stood with her arms crossed. The girl cleared her throat. I saaiiid. She waved an arm at Evan. Hes awake. The guy with the tablet dropped his feet to the floor, and a woman poked her head up from the floor compartment like a hedgehog. The three of them stared at Evan. He suddenly felt like he was wearing someone elses skin. The woman sat herself up on the edge of the hole, whipped her multi-colored bangs from her face, and scratched a shaven patch of hair on the side of her head. She wore a tank top, revealing arms sleaved with flame tattoos that contorted as her arms flexed. The man slouching on the seats called to the hallway with his goatee lined mouth, Hey, guys? Hes awake. Fantastic, replied the voice that Evan recognized as Vihns. The young girl sighed but didnt take her eyes off Evan, making him feel uncomfortably warm. Royal Road is the home of this novel. Visit there to read the original and support the author. Something walked in from behind Evan. It was a boy, about his age, with bleached hair, green eyes, and another cross necklace. His eyes widened when he saw Evan. He opened his mouth and pointed energetically at him. The girl nodded. Yep. The boy formed signs with his hands. The girl made similar gestures back. With a judicious smile, the boy reached a hand out to Evan. What else was he to do but shake it? After they met, the boy strolled over to the girl, giving Evan a weird sense of dj vu when staring at them side by side. Twins. Now, four strangers stood in silence, studying Evan as he searched for something to say. Despite recent events, waking up in a weird place surrounded by weird people still wasnt something he rightly knew how to react to. Vihn walked in from the far hall, hunched over by a sloping roof. So, he lived. How was Evan supposed to react to the man who kidnapped, used, and forced him into exposing his powers? Evan didnt know what possessed him, or how he managed to close the gap of at least twenty or so feet as fast as he did, but his fist connected with Vihns jaw again. This time Evan regretted the sudden overcoming of emotion, noting it as a dangerous pattern. Vihn grabbed his face and stared back at Evan with dark eyes. Blink. Huh? Evan was blinded by a white light. He stumbled in the radiance, and quickly found himself tripping into a bed. Clarity returned. He was in the room he had woken up in. He went to exit, but the girl was there and managed a Sorry. Before slamming the hatch in his face. He slid to a stop and pounded on the door. Let me out! he screamed. No one responded. Evan huffed. That was a stupid thing to do, he said to himself. Well done. He slid to the floor with his back against the door. Every moment that he was trapped there, was a moment that either his friend might be killed, or that his father might be arrested. Control, Evangelos, he remembered his dad say. Cap your emotions. They cant hurt you or anyone else if they are hidden. He reflected on that. He had hurt people because his emotions took over. If only he were an unfeeling husk, then maybe nothing bad would happen to him and those around him. Someone knocked. You going to sock me again if I open this? Vihn asked. Because, I can just have Blink teleport you outside next time, though itd be a pretty high drop. I hate you, Evan whispered. There was no response. Evan closed his eyes. I was just trying to help someone I cared about. Now a bunch of people are dead, the Feds know Im Afflicted, and Im a prisoner C because of you. I hate you. Evan didnt feel any better having said it. Vihn sighed. You and me both, kid. The door creaked open. Evan stood to face Vihn. Alright, the rebel said. I guess I owe you better answers. What do you want to know? Since running away from the rebels hadnt worked, and fighting was moot, perhaps it was time Evan tried to turn them into allies. He shook off his stress. Just tell me where we are. Do you want longitude and altitude? Cant you just answer my question? He paused. Dont you mean latitude? Right Vihn said. Come with me. He brought Evan to a small room at the head of whatever this was C then it became clear it was Vihns airship, Ad Astra. The cockpit was a narrow arrangement that Evan had to duck into. It was encased in a panorama of glass, with computers and consoles laden throughout it. At the helm were two chairs, one of which sat Rowic who manned a flight stick. Howdy, the hacker said. Evan may have disliked Vihn, but he found Rowic to be alright. Vihn sat in the thick chair next to Rowic. Make contact yet? Yep. Rowic pointed to his headset. Vihn put on a similar device. They flew lower over a wide forest of round topped trees. The Sun was just rising. If Evan had been at the Academy, hed hear the morning train about now. This is Phoenix One, requesting flight path, Vihn said. There was a muffled reply from the headset. Copy, he replied. The ship descended steadily toward the woods below them, and it was obvious that the slivers of spacing between the leaves would not be enough for a successful landing. Evan asked, youre not trying to land here, right? Check this out. Rowic pointed at a concentration of taller trees. Vihn relayed instructions. Phoenix One, making touchdown. The canopy dissolved before them, exposing grand city ruins, smeared by a great fog that made them look like an oil painting. Theres no way Evan gawked. Rowic sniggered. You sound like someone who doesnt live in a world full of meta-humans. Ahead of them was a range of mountains. A portion of the rock face shook and separated to form a large hole like that of a missile silo. The ship diverted through the opening into a tunnel and was swallowed by darkness. Headlights snapped on, guiding the ship through what looked to be an abandoned railway tunnel. The ship hovered in place. Shunt! Light poured up from below them as four slices of the ground pulled back, revealing a cavern beneath. The ship descended into the gaping mouth, down further past the surface through a massive tube of concrete, florescent lights, and copper pipes. Words tumbled from Evans lips. Where... are we? Rowic twirled the chair and faced Evan. West of Philadelphia, deep in the Trans American Metro-sewer system. You mean- Yep, ground zero. The city above us is where it all started. Titan Project? Yep, and the Affliction. It boggled Evans mind. Never had he imagined hed make it within a mile of the Great Wastes where the rebels had attacked the Monolith Industries lab. It happened before he had been born, but his parents told him that the explosion killed everyone in the city, and the disease spread out to the surrounding cities from DC to Boston before anyone realized what the true damage of the attack would be. The people closest to the fallout died from rapid mutation, and those a bit further was infected with a dormant form of Affliction that took a week later to show any symptoms, and by then it had already spread to millions. One in every hundred people would either develop Affliction or be born with it, and it was a dormant gene C impossible to detect until puberty. Thus, Evans life story. He asked, How hasnt the Federation found this place? Rowic stretched his hands behind his head. Well, they know were here somewhere, but every time theyve come searching, a lot of people die, or they cant find us. Between mind manipulators, mutant animals, biohazards, holograms, and hackers C its not worth their time. Sides, they know they can wait us out. We have to scavenge for survival, and because they have the general populace on their side, every time someone pulls a stunt to get back at the Federation, we end up creating a thousand more Federation enlistees. He gave Vihn a side glare. That was a bitter realization. The conflict at Hazard Station could have created many more enforcers, people whod think they were protecting their loved ones. Well, from what Evan had experienced, they would be protecting them. Were here, Vihn said. Rowic swiveled back to his flight controls. The tube opened into a world of which resembled something that Evan had only seen in movies. Before him was a subterranean city carved into concrete and rock. It was like descending through a space station, or a dwarven city C as odd as that seemed fitting. From bottom to top, dozens of terraces ribbing it like a stack of giant tires, with tunnels branching out from it. As they descended further, it was apparent that there were more tunnels that ran off from the terraces, like that of a termite colony. Everything was lit by amber floodlights, television screens, and barrels of fire. Across the terraces were tiers of shanty houses stacked along the walls of the expansive city. A waterfall rushed out of a maw and dumped into a river that bisected the tunnel straight through the middle of the city. Arching metal braces held the concrete ceiling where trickles of water fell to join the river below. People skimmed across the canal by way of small boats, which they pushed forward with poles three times their height. Crowds milled about the city levels like ants. Once low enough, Evan witnessed dozens of video screens crowding around the topmost floor, each broadcasting the news. Breathtaking? Rowic asked. It was stunning, but the city wasnt what stole Evans breath, but rather the utter dread he felt seeing his fathers face on every screen. 10: "Rebels, Purifiers, and Nightmares" There his father was, live on the Federation of America News broadcast. He stood behind a podium of microphones outside of their family house in Dogma Isle. His tan skin was more wrinkled than Evan remembered, edged with combed gray hair. Something kicked Evans heart as he watched, hearing nothing as his fathers mouth moved. Why cant I hear the broadcast? he asked. Rowic and Vihn kept their eyes on their controls, not yet acknowledging what was going on. The hacker said, Our ship blocks out most sounds, pretty airtight. Dont worry bro, were almost landed. See something good on? His father, Vihn said, looking up. Oh, Rowic said, finally seeing it all. Never had Evan found himself anxious to hear what his father was saying on TV. What was the Federation saying about the Governor? What was he saying about Evan? He wished he could read lips. Ad Astra dropped onto a platform amongst a ragtag fleet of airships. Some were sleek, others rotund, each with a mix of wings, engines, and guns. Landing ramps down, Rowic announced. The news always loops, so no ru. Evan sprinted out of the cockpit, through the main crew bay, past the rebels as they were exiting the ship. He bumped into someone but was deaf to their complaints. Despite being outside of the ship, his fathers voice was a muted thing. Evan continued toward the edge of the landing zone, mid-level to the rest of the base. He grabbed hold of a set of railings. The scent of sewage and burning fires wafted through his nose as he watched the screen. His fathers voice battled with the roar of water and a swell of people chattering in what looked to be a marketplace with hundreds of booths. By the time Evan was close enough to hear the program, the broadcast flashed away from his fathers face to a man and woman in suits sitting across from each other in an interview. A banner explained what the meeting was about, New CEO of Monolith Industries takes over while Governor Hendricks focuses on district affairs. Evan slumped to the guardrail. The man was the Governors second in command, Charlie Crain. What was going on? Congratulations Mr. Crain, the woman started, on your recent acquisition of the CEO title and position of Monolith; a very daunting role to fill. Charlie wound his mouth into a shark-toothed grin, Sure. Im blessed the Governor would consider me for the position. Why is it that he has? Does it have to do with the Hazard Station Massacre? the reporter asked. Certainly. The recent incident demands his attention, more than he can provide while also maintaining our nations leading tech entity. Thus, he trusted me to look after Monolith in the meantime. Bull. Father would have rather died than give up Monolith. It was more likely President Nero had something to do with this. If you spot this narrative on Amazon, know that it has been stolen. Report the violation. They make it sound like theyre going to cover everything up, Vihn said as he leaned over the guardrail next to Evan. He took a swig from a flask in his hand. Evan scowled. It doesnt make sense. They talk like hes still in office. But if this whole thing is my fault, and they know Im Afflicted, they would have Killed him? Vihn asked. Why wouldnt they? It was a weird sensation Evan felt C in one mind, he was beyond grateful his father seemed to be fine, but the other part of him knew there had to be something far more sinister behind this. Vihn chewed the corner of his lip. Cant say, kid. But these broadcasts are just propaganda. They run them on loop. I bet if we stick around for a bit, theyll show your dads interview again. Evan sighed and waited with Vihn until they played footage that he couldn''t believe they had. It was the pub from Hazard Station, from the perspective of a body camera. It showed legs splayed out from whomever the camera belonged to, but they didnt move. Other Federation soldiers lay mutilated and screaming in agony. Krows body ignited with energy, the moment after hed knocked Evan back into the bar and was about to kill him. But the shot was angled so that it never showed Evans mangled body. The scene cut away right as Vihns vines crashed through the wall. The reporters next words were a jumbled mess as Evan tried to wrap his mind around what hed just seen. But before he could process it all, they played his fathers interview again. Governor Hendricks, the reporter said, what are your plans regarding the terrorist attack carried out by these Afflicted terrorists, which resulted in the deaths of several Federation enforcers and civilians yesterday? The Governor frowned. We grieve the noble officers who died protecting the people of Hazard Station. Affliction is dangerous in any and every form, and I am finished seeing these things make good people suffer. We are increasing our efforts to restore peace. I have enlisted the war hero, Purifier Joseph Krow, to head our new initiative in bringing these terrorists to justice. I am confident that he will root them out from every hole. Fun guy, Vihn said. Evan ignored him. The reporter asked, your son, Evangelos Jr., he was last seen boarding a tram that had passed through Hazard Station that day. Is he alright? Yes, the Governor answered. Evan furled his brow, unable to predict where this was going. I thought itd be a good idea to send my son to the North so he could get a broader sense of the Federation before returning home to intern at Monolith. Fortunately, the attack happened after he had boarded another train to Montreal. Ah, that makes sense. The reporter leaned in. Now, the last question we have is one from the public. Some people were concerned about your resolve regarding Afflicted recently. Do you have any comments? Without a lick of emotion, the Governor said, I have no sympathy for the Afflicted. In fact, the same day of the attack, I had ordered the arrest of a mutant at Nero Caine Academy. What? Wasnt it your adopted son? It was, It? The Governor continued. But like most Afflicted, there was no way of detecting the corruption until a later age. Im only thankful we could stop it before anyone was hurt. I did not hesitate to have it arrested when we received the notification. These things have no place in our society. The reporter nodded. Thats good to hear you say. As always, you remain a great example of the strength of our nation. Something twisted and burned inside of Evan. It couldnt be true. If they were covering up Evans Affliction, then they could also be forcing his dad to lie, make him a puppet. Or maybe his father had found a way to cover everything up himself. There were too many questions. Evan clutched on to hope that his father was lying to the news. Vihn shook his head. Remember what I said? If the public ever learned that the GK had powers this whole time, the Feds would lose the East. Youre their dirty secret. If Evan was going to figure this out and get home, there seemed to be only one person who could help him C the rebel leader. I want to speak to Andrea. Vihn flashed a crooked grin as he looked past Evan to something behind him. Then speak to me, another voice said. Evan turned to see a pair of mixed matched eyes staring back at him; one the depth of ocean, and the other the Moons reflection. 11: "Traitor" There she stood, her bundle of curly hair pulled back, allowing the light of the city to embrace her dark features. She wore a black track jacket with red stripes down the sleeves, baggy grey sweatpants, and running shoes. She took calculated breaths and wiped sweat from her forehead. If it hadnt been for several streaks of grey in her black hair, Evan might have mistaken her for being in her twenties. Those pale and dark eyes still hadnt blinked, looking at Evan with an expression that said, Well? Vihn clapped Evan on the back. See you around, kid, he said, and then left. Evan knew he was looking like a fool standing there not saying anything, but the truth was that he didnt know where to start. This was a woman that the Federation had spent decades trying to kill. Yet there she stood, barely looking like someone decades old, out for a jog in the heart of her rebel base, waiting for Evan to find his voice. He finally found his words, and said, Youre Andrea, the Ark. Youre Evan, the Governors kid. So much for being ready to meet her, Evan thought. Andrea nodded, as if hed spoken again. Well then, we best get started. I know you have a lot of questions. Some of them will be worth asking, others are going to be painfully obvious. But dont worry, well sift through it all. Evan cocked his head. How do you know what I want to ask? She smirked. Try to keep up. She turned on her heel and jogged up a twisting concrete path and disappeared into a cave in the wall. Evan rummaged his hands through his pockets and brushed his fingers over those two citizenship IDs: his life, and Kens. Why did he hesitate? Perhaps every step he took was deeper into this unescapable hole where his life became inverted, and where death awaited. But death awaited around any corner. The question was whos? Save Ken, save my father, save myself. He repeated the prayer in his head as he made his way after Andrea. The cave swallowed him. It would have been pitch black if not for a bunkers open door; a blue glow emanating from a table within it. Evan pushed his apprehension further down past his stomach and ventured into the bunker. Inside, the glowing table greedily spanned most of the room, leaving just enough space for someone to walk around it. Tiny monitors and tall computers clung to the walls. A thin beige curtain draped across a doorframe to the right, where orange light escaped underneath. Evan took a deep breath and advanced through the cloth. A heavy smell of incense wafted through Evans nostrils. Smoke trailed from copper plates scattered around this new place, where tiny flames sauntered upon candle wicks. Pastel colors dribbled down to the plates where an inch of wax had already caked it. Long linen sheets sprawled across the floors, and up over short pillars where the incense and candles rested. This room was little more than a narrow corridor. Hundreds of news clippings and photos hung from either side, depicting some stories Evan recognized - Afflicted murders, political arrests, vaccine discoveries, and the string of wars known as The Dreaded Three C The End, The Civil, and The Schism. There were also hundreds more things that referenced dates and conflicts from years before Evan was born. There were books stacked past his height in columns next to the candles. The Story of Harriet Tubman, What Was the Worst War? WWI, WWII, and WWIII Compared, and The Federation: Evolving from Religion. A quilt stretched out from Evans feet to the end of the room. Each square on the quilt incorporated colorful images of characters made from blue and crimson fabric. The pictures were a menagerie of events. It appeared the crimson images represented the history of the Afflicted, whereas the blue depicted the Federation. Andrea stood at the end of the corridor. She rolled her neck, peeled off her track jacket to a tank top, kicked off her shoes, and cracked her knuckles. Do you recognize anything? She asked. Evan inched forward, Uh, a few things. Why so many things about history and wars? Those who forget the past are bound to repeat it, she said. Her voice was odd, an accent Evan hadnt heard. Im from as far South as you can go. Chile it was called, before the Federation killed everyone and snatched it up. I wasnt going to ask. You were, but that doesnt matter either. And no, I dont read minds, but Ill explain later. She took a match and lit a row of candles that stood on a podium in front of her. You ever wonder about your heritage, Evan? Where your people come from? Of all the things hed expected to talk about, his ethnicity wasnt one of them. Why would I? It doesnt mean anything. Andrea blew out the match. Evan, one thing Ive learned in my years fighting rebellions is that your past will always mean something, whether you want it to or not. She sat on the ground with her legs crossed. Im going to say a prayer. Would you join me? Pray for what? Evan asked. For the dead. He didnt know what good prayer would do for them now that they were dead. Ill pray for our people and the soldiers. Evan raised an eyebrow. Youll pray for Federation soldiers? Yes. Im not heartless. I know most of those men and women fight for survival same as anyone else. More so, I pray for their families. If it had been any other day, Evan might have agreed with her. Hed always thought, Sure, the Feds scared him, but they were just people stuck in a system. But at the same time those soldiers chose to hunt Afflicted. They chose to arrest Ken, and support Krow as he killed Zachary. They were as complicit as anyone. It wasnt lost on him that merely a day ago he chided Vihn for the same thinking, but after what Joseph Krow had done to that rebel Maybe they deserved to die, he said. Andrea frowned. We all sin. We all kill, in our own ways. We all fear and curse and lie when it suits us. Its not for us to judge who deserves death. Yet you kill people anyway. You kidnap people, blow up stuff, terrorize the world. Youre just a hypocrite. Yeah, I guess both sides have that in common. So much anger and hatred boiled through his eyes and mouth and Evan wanted to destroy everything. To rip apart the books. To bring down the bunker. It was wrath C so strong, so tangible. But it came out of nowhere. The heat of his powers manifested, and for a moment he thought hed lose control again. But then he noticed nothing was happening, absolutely nothing. This revelation snapped him from his anger, and he finally realized he was on his knees. He looked at his hands. They were normal hands. Fingers that were no more destructive than a normal persons Stolen from its original source, this story is not meant to be on Amazon; report any sightings. Whats happening? he asked. You have a wonderful gift. This is mine. You took my powers away? For the first time ever, Evan missed them, mourned for them, desired them. Andrea shook her head. No. Your powers flair out when your emotions do. You spend so much time pushing them down, that they break out whenever the pressure gets too much. But when you are with me, your internal struggles are allowed to exist plainly. Many folks assume seeing the future is my gift C or reading thoughts. They insist on it. But all I am is an empath. I see what you feel, Evan. I see it, and I see what that emotion might drive you to do. I can see the choices splayed out in front of you like toys. You might pick up this one, or that. Its not that I know what choice youre going to make, its that I see what your emotions want to do most, and I can see what youve already done. I can take that sight and help you see it too. In your case, part of you is desperately fighting to break free of the emotional prison youve created for yourself. The weight of air pushed down on him, suffocating. It was like he was food being overcooked in a microwave, ready to explode but nowhere for his erupting emotions to go but back into himself. Andreas voice was like snow falling across a desert. Youve witnessed so much death, enough to drive anyone insane. Its something no one should have to endure. Tears welled in Evans eyes. He fought them back, trying to stomach the vulnerability. Please. It hurts. The womans hand brushed over Evans back. Its ok, youre not running anymore, child. His suffering, trauma, hate C everything poured out from him. Evan lost control. Tears washed down his face. Why in front of this woman he barely knew? Why now? Why him? You are no monster, Evan. Dont let them say you are, she whispered. Evan wept far longer than he ever had before. Long enough that he fell asleep. ***** Evan opened his eyes, and this time he wasnt in a concrete cell, or chained to a shelf in the back of a pub. He was somewhere familiar, somewhere hed known most of his life, the place that hed dreaded ever seeing again C his bedroom. A place of blue walls, cluttered shelves, and overflowing hampers of clothes. His mattress depressed underneath him as he was already sitting up and his red bed sheet crumpled in his lap. No. His bed sheets were white. But now they were red. The bed was red, his hands pulled back and were red. Evans chest caved with pain when he realized where he was. Blood. Blood that splattered all over his clothes, pooling in a sickening mess on the floor where a woman writhed in agony, spreading the redness across a wooden floor. Her hands clasped around her face. A face Evan wanted to tear his eyes away from. But he couldnt. He couldnt move. His eyes and hands were not his own. Two piles of blue armor and melted flesh lay at the door next to his mom. Father stood there, his mouth gaping in eldritch horror. And there was Ken, staring at Evan with a dumbstruck fear that Evan had never seen him express before. Stop! I dont want to be here, let me go. Cried Evans mind, trapped in this hallucination. It has already happened, came another voice, you cannot hide from it. Its time to face the reality of that day. Evan Father said, also splattered with red. Dad? he replied. Father shook his head, almost as if coming back to his senses. He rushed over to the woman to Mom. Shwood! he called out. Evangelos? Replied a man, footsteps clacking up the stairway. Father jumped into the hallway, closing the door behind him. Oh my God- the other man gasped. Shh. Listen The face of the other man smudged like a drawing. Evan had never looked up to see who it was. It didnt matter at the time. Their voices became hushed, so that Evan couldnt hear what was being said. He sat there frozen, as his mother He could feel his past self, the one who was actively experiencing the event C crying, cold, hopeless. His moms face burned into his mind, the half that was still there, her eye piercing Evans. Hatred. Father returned to the room. Medical drones are on their way. Boys. He came to Evan and Ken, grabbing them by their shoulders. No matter what happens, no matter what anyone says, thinks, or sees C neither of you are Afflicted. But- Evan stammered. His eyes, hardened things, stopped Evan. You can tell no one about this. I have a plan; I wont let anyone take you. Do you trust me? Evan nodded. Good. Then everything swirled together into a black mist. Evan was alone in this darkness, a hollow existence, waiting for salvation. Why are you doing this to me? You wont let go, let go. Let go. Let go Why are you showing me all of this? He thought. Andreas voice came to him. You are the one showing me. These memories are what have held you back from your destiny. Destiny I hate destiny. Why? I believe in choice. You do have a choice. Do you embrace your potential, or do you refuse it? That is always up to you Out of the void, a single leaf of orange and red and yellow flittered down to Evan until it collided with his forehead and erupted in glorious fire that peeled back the emptiness, bringing Evan into his eyes again. He was at the hospital where theyd taken his mom, standing beside his father as they faced a crowd of reporters. Father spoke into a set of microphones. The rumors are true. On Unification Day, two Afflicted rebels disguised themselves as Federation enforcers and used their Affliction to kill my wife, and then succumbed to their own unpredictable powers. It was the lie, the great deception, the farce that Evan allowed to exist. He stood there, doing nothing, too scared to tell the truth. He let his father speak, and craftily guide the world into believing that two soldiers had been Afflicted. What of their families? Evan would never know. It was as if they didnt exist. Evans mind clawed at the border between his consciousness and reality. No. It was me! I killed her. It was me, idiots. She didnt deserve it. I deserve to die. Me. But Evan couldnt change the vision, and he had no control over his past self. He could only watch as his young body stood compliantly, allowing his sin to be blackened by more lies. Monster Everything spun as reality seeped back into Evans mind. He choked for air. His head dropped between his knees; he grasped at the quilting that was underneath him and retched. The rebel leader knelt and lifted him to sit. Easy. Why-why did- His thoughts swirled. Andrea handed him a cup of what smelled like tea. Thisll calm you. Evan took the cup but didnt drink. The memory hed just seen flashed over and over in his mind. Youve been holding that in for a long time, Andrea said. She sat herself cross-legged in front of Evan. Drink. He took a sip. The liquid scalded his tongue and throat, but he instantly felt his head refocus. He took another sip. Why did you show me that? I didnt. You showed me. It was so real. I couldnt control myself, I tried to stop it. I didnt want it to happen. I didnt want to hurt her, or kill those soldiers, or lie, or any of it. Andrea placed a hand on his knee. It happened, but this was not your fault. Only the present is in your control. Evan tried to gather his senses. Why would God allow something like that to happen? Why did He do this to me? God did not create evil, nor the Affliction. Humanitys will, driven by evil, is what did this to you. But there is no use asking why, but instead what. She pointed to Evans pocket where the IDs hid. Evan pulled them out. Ken Doleson. Evangelos Hendricks Jr. Why do you hold on to two IDs? Isnt one enough? He had been asking himself that since graduation, but the answer finally came to him. I made it through graduation, he didnt. I still have a life that he doesnt. There must be a reason for it. There has to be a way I can save him. He deflated. I wish Id wake up from whatever nightmare Im in. Andrea nodded. Youre awake for the first time. Youve been trying to break from a dream your whole life, and now you see reality for what it really is. There is a reason why youre here and he isnt. Evan scowled at her with trepidation. What do you mean? I mean that you have the reason inside of you. Its your chance to do something about the world. Dont like it? Change it. Hate the suffering of others? Help them. The dead and the weak cant fight anymore. Its our duty to fight for them. Andrea stood, looking down upon Evan with both the eye of light and the eye of dark. But it isnt for me to tell you what your destiny is. You must decide that for yourself. Evan pondered the IDs again. Thoughts of his mom and dad came back to him. Thoughts of laying on the beach with his father. Thoughts of his moms half-hearted smile. Thoughts of Ken stolen, and Zachary being murdered. Hed hidden his powers since the day they manifested, and nothing ever changed. He still lived in the same hell that was bent on killing him and everyone like him. Andreas words resonated in him. It was time to be the change hed always needed. It was time to seize his own destiny. He rose. Im tired of other people dying because of me. Im tired of people sacrificing themselves on my behalf. I want to be the one to save someone. Then save someone. Andrea offered her hand to Evan. He considered it, knowing that by taking it hed be joining the Blood Red Army. Did he want to be a rebel? No. He knew what he wanted. He didnt take the hand yet, a plan forming in his mind that he didnt want her to know. Ill help you, if you help me save my friend first. Andrea cocked her head to the side and folded her arms. Help me do what? Defeat my father. 12: "Phoenix One" Evan didnt know what else to say that would convince Andrea to help him. If his theory was right, there wasnt anything to defeat, because he was certain the Federation was puppeteering his father at gun point. But if Evan could get them to trust him, then their resources could be exactly what he needed to save the people he cared about. The rebel leader raised her eyebrows. Had she bought it? She waved her hands, snickering and shaking her head. Well, she said, its a deal. She stuck her hand back out to Evan. He took a deep breath and shook it. She turned to the curtained exit, waving Evan over. Come on, I want you to meet the rest of your team. My team? Evan asked, but Andrea continued through the curtain. Evan followed her and stumbled when he saw seven other people gathered in the meeting room. Evan recognized most of them from the ship. Vihn and Rowic were there C the first leaning against a cabinet with his arms crossed. To their left was a hunched man, wiping his hands with a dirty cloth, his hair retreated into a grey beard. His face was rough with scars and wrinkles, but his eyes relaxed. He had been one of the crew Evan ran past when they landed. The others next to him where the four crew members Evan had briefly encountered on Ad Astra. First was the younger man, slouched with his hands in his pockets. Then there was the girl with tattooed arms and colored hair. Last were the identical twins. This is Phoenix One, Andrea said. She nodded to each member as she said their names from right to left. Youve already met Vihn and Rowic. Next to them is Cranston, Daniel, Nyla, Twitch and Blink. The girl twin, Blink, gave Evan a smile. Warmth filled his cheeks, and he gave into his urge to look away. Heya! She thrust out her hand to Evan. He nervously met her grip. His heart skipped. He couldnt tell if it was because he was attracted to her, or if it was because he hadnt had a girl (or rather anyone for that matter) give him such positive attention. How odd that was, to have someone smile and welcome him without judgement or a secret motive Perhaps there was a motive behind that smile, he considered, and found himself building a barrier inside just in case. Cranston, the older man, stretched out an oil-grimed hand. Welcome to our home, Evan, he said with a southern drawl. The others echoed the greeting. Evan requited his handshake and nodded to the group. He sorted through his mixed feelings C having just agreed to work with the people who abducted him. With a meaty arm, Cranston nudged Evan over to the projection table. Not really knowing what to say or do, Evan went along with the push. Be confident, Evangelos, then others will think you are brave even when you are not. Heeding his fathers old advice, he straightened up and continued to the table on his own. Lets begin. Andrea, The Ark, cracked her neck and panned her hand over the projection table. The blue light morphed into an image of Joseph Krows face; like looking at death. She said, Despite what weve believed, Krow still lives, and hes just as dangerous as before. Daniel, hands remaining in pockets, groaned. What the heck, Ny? I thought you blew him up? Shut up, the tattooed woman said. Cranston scoffed. Monolith made purifier armor from nano-steel. Almost two decades as a soldier, and Ive never seen someone crack em. Theyre invincible. Not anymore, Vihn said. The group faced him as he stepped away from the cabinet. He tilted his head to Evan. Kids the first one Ive seen make a purifier look scared. Now the eyes were back on Evan, who was once again wordless. The Gk? Nyla asked. Vihn nodded. He melted Krows helmet like ice. If anyone can kill a purifier, its him. Evan let out an involuntary noise, somewhere between a horse neighing and a crow cawing. He wasnt alone in the sentiment of disbelief. Come on, Nyla said, only a handful of us survived last time we went up against Krow. We didnt kill him; we couldnt even do that right. Hes a devil, and you think the GK is gonna be the difference? Hey, lay off him, Rowic said. A long-winded debate started over Evan, until finally Andrea asked, What do you think, Evan? The room quieted. Evan was taken aback as all the eyes were on him yet again. He exhaled his embarrassment and spoke up. Ill do whatever it takes to stop Krow. Andrea smiled. Good. The purifiers are the backbone of the Federations war on us. The Governors are the shoulders that our enemies head rests on. We have the means to break their back, and to decapitate President Nero Caines government, in Evan. Well work together to train him, and when the time is right, well gut the Federation. Aye? Aye, the group repeated. But, she continued, the Feds took someone from Evan, somebody he cares about. Before we can take on Krow, well help Evan save his friend. Aye? Aye! Evans insides lifted with excitement. These rebels demonstrated so much conviction, that saving Ken became more and more tangible every moment he was exposed to them. Hed never been around so much passion and unity. It admittedly swept past his defenses, and he didnt want to be let back down. He caught Andreas look again as she said, Welcome to the Blood Red Army. Welcome Becoming an official member of the rebellion was not his desire, but he knew it was the only way to save Ken, and their conviction showed promise. As long as he found his brother, then itd be worth it. He worked up a smile as the group clapped for him. Andrea turned to Vihn, Theyre all yours. God speed. He gave a slight nod. When she had returned to her chamber, Vihn stepped up to the projection table. Alright. Since its Evans first day with us, Daniel is going to show him around. I am? The casual man asked, his forearms diving deeper into the pockets of his sweatpants. How big could pockets get? Vihn glared at him. Yes, sirrr, he said. Good, everyone else, do whatever you want. I dont care. Yes, sir, the rest of the group said, except Evan. A tour, after all of this? Evan would rather sleep, considering the kind of week hed just been through. But he couldnt muster the energy to argue. The others exited the room, each giving Evan a glance of varying warmth on their way out. A high pitch whistle startled him, followed by Daniels voice. Man. His torso folded face first onto the table, mumbling indistinct words. Uh Are you alright? Evan asked. Yeah, yeah. Just got a headache, he said, face still pressed into the table. He peeled himself back. Come on. Hope you dig living in a wet, cramped, and abandoned metro sewer system. Uh sure. Evans shrugged. He rubbed his eyes, brushed off his brown coat, and followed Daniel through several corridors into a large metro tunnel with rail tracks running infinitely in either direction. Small lights illuminated parts of its torn foundations and decaying rounded walls. Foliage clung to the floor like natures own railway. Daniel mumbled something. What? Evan asked. Huh? Daniel asked back. The narrative has been stolen; if detected on Amazon, report the infringement. Evan shook his head and ignored it. There was too much going on in his mind to ask questions. The sooner the tour was over, the sooner hed hopefully find a place of rest. Daniel scraped his feet against the ground. Periodically his mutters would be audible. Man. Alpha, Phoenix Have these cats always been this extra? He passed into another tight corridor a little way down the path. All right, little tour lesson, bro. We call the whole metro Alpha Base, cuz this is the first base. Therere a dozen others, but like, this is the first. Dig? Evan nodded but resisted continuing a conversation. He craved solitude, to be left alone with his thoughts. His head swam with everything Andrea had discussed with him. He doesnt talk much. Noted, Daniel said to himself. Lets keep it going then. They continued through the hallway until it opened into the grand vista of the city. They were on a lower terrace which was shadowed by the levels above. It was a marketplace of numerous huts and booths. There was little place to rest ones eyes as swaths of people navigated the market stands, carted crates and barrels, or chattered about. Charcoal and gas fires wafted a smokey fragrance through Evans senses. A group of children ran through the course, ducking this way and that over and under and through the obstacles of people and goods. Daniel flared his arms. This is our glorious city. He kept his arms held out, and after a moment of silence, turned to Evan. Glorious city? Evan shrugged. I, uh, kinda saw this already. The casual man deflated, shoving his hands back into his pockets. Well, the bunkroom is back down that way. Daniel flicked his thumb at the hallway to the left. You dont have to go the long A way we just came, but its a part of this gratuitous tour. Evan took it in again. The floodlights cast great blankets of light over pockets of the undercity, while the other spaces slept in dark shadow. This time it smelled better with the sizzle of food coming from grills. Hundreds of people wandered the canals and makeshift huts. While the Federation News Broadcast continued to play on the main monitor at the top of the terraces, others were tuned to different channels. One screen displayed a wide green field where people in shorts and red or white shirts ran around kicking a black and white ball. At the bottom of the screen were two names, The United British Isles and Western European Foundation. Theres no way thats live Evan muttered. Huh? Oh, I dont know anything about Europe, but I know the guy whos in charge of the TVs. Those are just reruns he got before the bargo, Daniel said. It was surreal seeing people cheering in stadiums as if the sport event was happening right then. It was weirder seeing footage from a nation from the last era, probably just before the WEF put a trade embargo and media ban on the Americas. From Evans limited knowledge of the old world, they were afraid the Federation would try and annex more than their side of the world, so they blacked out any transcontinental transmissions. Though, it was also rumored that Europe didnt exist anymore, that itd been decimated by a fourth World War. Who knew what really happened now that the internet was well, that was a-whole-other story. Come on, dude, lets get to know everyone. Evan rubbed his neck. Id rather get some rest, you know? I feel you my man, but Daniel spoke very coolly. If I don''t finish this tour, then I''m not gonna do it later, and then Vihn will beat me. Sooooo... He slung an arm over Evans shoulder and guided him forward. Evan sighed, no energy to rebuttal. He doubted Vihn would beat Daniel, though. Well, on second thought, he couldnt be certain how the rebels handled insubordination. In fact, how did such a great population of Afflicted survive together like this? He decided to ask Daniel. Daniel pondered it for a moment, then shrugged. I dunno. I mean, almost everyone here is here because theyd literally be hunted and killed anywhere else. Its like, a communal agreement not to be a jerk? It was hard to take that at face value. Evan asked, Well, what if someone does use their power to try and hurt other people? Rob them or something? We do have a jail C and for what its worth, no one would last very long here breaking the rules C you know, because of the whole super-powered thing. Dont you have accidents though? Affliction is dangerous, people die all the time just for existing. Daniel scrunched up his face at this comment. Bro, maybe once-in-a-while, but only when someone first gets their powers, and even then, they keep tabs on when someone is getting to that age anyway. After that, people just keep training until their power works, and they are good to go. I mean, theres still drawbacks, but it gets manageable. Like depression! Ah. Ok, maybe thats not a good comparison. Do you have depression? Alright I dont know why I said that. Weird right? I mean- As Daniel continued to mumble, while Evan found himself stuck on how so many people could live seemingly safe lives. They just train? Then their powers arent dangerous anymore? Daniel shrugged. Sure man. More or less. I mean, were mostly still alive, arent we? Evan pondered this, and the embarrassment in him put an end to anymore questions on the matter. Was it so simple? If people learned how to use their powers responsibly, Affliction was manageable? Could he have prevented all the pain he caused by simply practicing more? It guilted him, and he quickly decided it was time to move on or else he might get trapped in his thoughts. Can we keep going? Evan asked. Daniel nodded, took a big breath, and led Evan away from the marketplace into the tunnels again. Most people share facilities, except for Phoenix One. Were an independent infiltration team, so we get our own special training rooms and stuff. Covert ops junk. Daniel led him to a large warehouse that was filled with wooden targets with red circles painted on them. At the other end of the space were a handful of stuffed dummies dressed like Federation enforcers propped on spikes. Nylas always in here, man. She has to use her powers daily or else she- Daniel ducked as one of the target dummies blew up into fire and smoke. Splinters scattered around the room. -explodes. Some people call her Shrapnel, you can see why. The shorthaired woman stood opposite of the targets. Her legs formed a wide base, slick in black jeans and boots. She jabbed the air with her fist. A pop ruptured, followed by another explosion. The room flashed with heat each time she did that, and Evan contemplated taking off his jacket as well as questioned if he was safe around such intense power. Daniel flicked out a peace sign. Hey there, Ny. She let out another explosion. Then she wiped some sticking bangs from her forehead with the back of her hand, keeping her focus on the targets. Daniel, she said. Yeah. Daniel leaned into Evan and muttered, Shes always brooding over me; you know what I mean? Nyla screamed and thrust out another explosion. Alright, talk later. Daniel ushered Evan out of the room. Shortly down the hallway, they passed an open door. Daniel pulled Evan back. Cranston sat inside, hunched over a disassembled shotgun. Dozens of weapons hung on the walls around him. A dark blue Federation security uniform dangled from a hook behind his head. Glasses rattled against his temples as he worked. The veins on his hands became more pronounced while they tightened around squat tools. Hey, Cran-man. Daniel leaned against the doorframe. The older man looked up through his glasses. Howdy. He noted Evan. Hows the tour? Evan nodded, whatever that meant. Well, Im glad Daniels showing you around. Yeah. They all stood in silence again. Daniel snapped his fingers. Ooh. Why dont yah tell Evan what your power is, Cran-man. Cranston shook his head and then presented the disabled parts of the shotgun. This is it right here. Yeah, yeah. Cranstons a normie. Daniel smirked. Hmph. Speak for yourself, Ace. Daniel became bashful. Alright, lets move on. Happy flying! Cranston wheezed as they left. Once they were out into the hallway, Daniel began mumbling again. They entered a small kitchen, where Blink and her twin brother sat at a table. The boys mouth yawed, but no words came out, while his hands twisted to form symbols. The girl responded in the sign language as well, but her attention quickly shifted to Evan and Daniel. Daniel pointed at them. This is Blink and Twitch. Uhm... Theyre twins? he stated as if questioning its significance. Blink canC Teleport, Evan said. Right, the whole kidnapping thing. Daniel inhaled, OK Uh, and Twitch there- Is mute and Blinks words melted as Daniels eyes grew wide. Sorry. Twitch flicked up a thumb in acknowledgment of Evan. Brief silence. Daniel exhaled, Lets get to the next part. Catch you later. Blink waved. Evan thought of a dozen ways to say bye, which all came out in the form of, catch you around! He turned away as quickly as he could and contemplated his existence. Daniel led him into a larger terminal room with consoles and wiring strangled throughout C at a much larger scale than the hiding room from Hazard Station. At the center was a lower level with a walkway and rails circling it. Steps led down to a large console system of machines where Rowic clacked away at a keyboard. Daniel called out, Yo, hacker man, wheres the boss? Andrea is with Vihn in the meeting room. He responded, not looking up from the computer. Cool, cool. Daniel stretched his arms out wide. Guess that concludes our tour. He rubbed his stomach. Man, I should eat something. Daniel might have been awkward, but somehow Evan felt some levity returning to his body. At least now the strangers had faces and names. Wonder whos cooking tonight. The casual man cradled his belly like a child. I heard it was Cranston, Rowic said. Ah. Daniel waved to Evan. Lets get to the kitchen before we have to eat any southern soul food, he said with air quotes and a mocking accent. Evan asked, I saw people making food in the markets. You dont eat that? Daniel screwed up his face, Rats and cats, and God knows what else. Come on. They strolled back to the kitchen. Blink and Twitch shifted over for them to sit. Here we go. Daniel reached into a faux-wooden cabinet and pulled out two small chrome bags. Water and heat, bone-ape-heck yeah, man. The food was a strange, freeze-dried substance, hinting of beef stew and plastic. Tell me, Daniel poured the stuff into a bowl with hot water and slurped it as the food expanded. He then passed one of the meals to Evan. What''s your power? Evan contemplated telling him and stirred the stew with a steel spork. Uhm. It''s called Molecular Dispersion, like I can control things on the molecular level, reshaping it and all. But pretty much I just accidently turn stuff into dust and sometimes I pass out." Yikes. Sounds like you dont use it much, man, Daniel said. I dont practice. Evan was annoyed by his assumption, even though it was true. Daniel tossed aside his empty container. Well, lets change that. Im sure Nylas done by now, lets go to the training room. No, Im fine. Lets do it, itll be fun! Blinks grand smile winning over Evan again. Ah. Sure, I guess. ***** Evan shifted uncomfortably, forgetting how to stand like a person, with so many people watching him. Daniel, Blink, and Twitch sat on the edge of a table behind him. He focused on one of the target dummies. Nyla walked into the room and clapped. Great! Ive been waiting to see the new kids powers all day. The sudden addition broke Evans concentration. He took a breath and shrugged it off. Youve done some freaky stuff, even Vihn thought so No big deal. Sweet, a demonstration? Came Cranstons voice, adding to the audience. Overwhelmingly nervous, Evan turned to them and made a desperate face in hopes theyd let him go. Dont mind me, just do your thing. Cranston propped himself next to Daniel. Evan wiped his brow. His instincts said to walk away, escape embarrassing himself or risk accidentally hurting someone. But he ignored the thoughts and focused on the dummy again, imagining its seams tearing. He flushed with heat. The concrete beneath him vibrated. His head ached, and stars narrowed his vision. Im going to lose control. 13: "Vihn" An intercom screeched with Vihns voice. Daniel, can you bring Evan topside? The spectators protested, but Evans powers dissipated with a sigh of relief. Daniel sighed. Man. Guess well have to get back to it later. Come on. He led Evan through the halls, past the marketplace, across a pathway underneath the waterfall, and up a ramp to a metal cage guarded by two rebels wearing red armbands. One of them stepped in front of Daniel. Thought you were grounded, Ace? The other sniggered. Daniel blushed. Youre a funny guy. The guard winked, then addressed Evan. Whos this? Hes our new addition. Hes new? Im sure Ive seen him. The guard leaned in uncomfortably close. Uh- Evan stammered. Probably when he came down that lift earlier, dig? Daniel stepped between the guard and Evan. The guard shrugged and let Daniel and Evan cross into the cage, keeping his eyes trained on Evan until the cage ascended through a chute. What was that? Evan asked. Daniel shook his head. Listen, only us in Phoenix One know who you are. Most people think Evangelos Jr. is in another part of the Federation, training to become a dictator, or whatever. The less people who know where you really are, the better. Besides, not everyone here is going to trust a GK, and others might have their own agenda if they ever found out. Own agenda? What, like kidnap me? Still bitter about that, huh? No. Worse. Evan took a deep breath, reminded that he was never fully safe. Daniel must have noticed Evans shift in comfort. But dont worry, man, they wont find out. Not all rebels get along, huh? Thats the beauty of freedom, everyone gets to think for their self. So, Evan changed the topic, not wanting to get into another discussion about choice and free will, why do people call you Ace? Daniel mumbled curses to himself. Huh? Ah, were at the top, Daniel said. Blinding sunlight caught Evan off guard. He shielded his eyes as the cage stopped with a thunk. His vision finally restored as they stepped outside, and he was mesmerized once again by what he saw. Before them was a city overrun by thousands of trees that stretched toward the clouds. Branches and vines weaved in and out of sky skyscrapers through brick and steel. Flowers grew where windows used to be. Marshes cultivated in the streets where hundreds of birds perched upon the skeletal remains of cars and traffic lights. This was all that remained of old era Philadelphia. Craaap. Should have started the tour with this, huh? Daniel said. Evan shut his mouth, which had been dumbly hanging open. Sorry. This is its a jungle. Thought youd like some fresh air, Vihn said. He sat on the hood of his Jeep, its windows welded with scraps of metal where it had been shot the night before. He hopped off the hood, reached into the glove compartment, and rustled through some papers. You wont do much against purifiers if you keep passing out every time you use your powers. He pulled out a metal pen and a flower vial, then held them out side-by-side. These flowers are what some of us call a conduit. Something that you can manipulate with your powers. You can start by doing your thing with this pen. Evan took the object and clicked it. Im not sure therell be a pen left if I use my powers on it. Vihn shook his head. You said your power is molecular dispersion, right? Yeah, but thats just some stupid name my dads science team came up with. So, what? Did they experiment on you? Run tests? Figure out the extent of what you can do? For some reason these questions tightened around Evans chest like rope, but he didnt know why. No, I dont remember anything like that. If you discover this tale on Amazon, be aware that it has been unlawfully taken from Royal Road. Please report it. Vihn sighed. Your father was the CEO of Monolith, correct? Yeah He said bitterly, the recent takeover by Crain still fresh in his mind. Alright, Monolith scientists understand the mess behind Affliction better than anyone else. Molecular, molecules. Dispersion, distribution. Evan rolled his neck. Where are you going with this? You might have forgot, but you did more than just disintegrate stuff when we were in Hazard Station. The gruesome memory came back. The Federation soldiers whose bodies were mutilated and melded into the walls and tables, fused together by Evans power. Vihn pointed to the pen. Start with that, try and change its form without dusting the thing, and without passing out. Well see if theres more to you than a walking crematorium. With that, he left Evan. The chrome exterior of the pen was slick in Evans hand. He clicked it again and stepped into an opening of trees. Daniel hung back and sprawled himself cross-legged on a fallen log, spinning a tablet between the tips of his fingers, his mouth mumbling away. Colored leaves rustled underneath Evans feet as he walked down a narrow path and sat behind a tree, out of sight. He rolled the pen back in forth in his palm. It was solid, so finely crafted. The shaft glistened in his fingertips. He unscrewed the tip and placed the ink stem carefully on the ground, and then screwed the cap back on. This way if he messed up, the ink wouldn''t ruin his coat; not that the blood stains hadnt already. Vihn wasnt wrong about why the scientists called his powers molecular dispersion. It was the ability to deconstruct and manipulate matter. Destruction was all that Evan had been able to manage in the past. It took a great amount of focus to will something apart, let alone will something back together. He focused on the pen. His head throbbed as he tried to break the pen apart with his thoughts, imagining it splitting in two, perhaps even unrolling into a flat sheet of metal; all to no avail. Just going to keep staring at it? Vihn asked after an hour had passed. Evan sighed. Vihn flicked his hand, and with a faint glow of his eyes, the leaves around Evan peeled back and cleared a circle of dirt. Evan envied the strangers control. Every Affliction has a drawback, its the handicap we get when we use our powers. He pointed to his radiating eyes. For me, its these. Big telegraph, and I can go temporarily blind when I push myself, then all I see are the dark outlines of plants. It lasted a whole month, once. Evan was used to passing out and losing control when he used his powers. If something simple like Vihns glowing eyes never stopped, then what hope did Evan have to get over his own drawback? Dont worry kid, youll learn to balance it. You just need to anticipate your drawback and guide it. Think about it, Evan. You can do a lot. Destroy. Manipulate. Create? Maybe kill purifiers. Don''t beat yourself down when you fail, or you might find yourself in a deeper hole. His words lifted the load from Evans shoulders, when he ignored the killing part. Lets unleash your gift. Vihn pointed at a weed in the dirt. Its thin stalk stuck out from the earth about a foot in the air. Small yellow buds populated its body and wavered in the wind. If you think about it, our powers arent that different when it comes to their mechanics. Plants are just a form of matter like everything else. That pen might not grow, but both have a form. Both can be taken apart. He waved his hand, and the weed snapped. The top half fell over like a tree at the hands of a lumberjack. And both can be weaved back together. With his palm stretched outward, the severed weed sprouted tendrils that pulled itself back into its original place. The parts bonded again as if nothing had happened to them. Try it. Vihn slipped his hands into his pockets and took a step back. Just take it apart, and then weave it together. Evan stretched out his arm as Vihn had. It felt silly. He brushed off the shy feeling and focused on the weed. The plant shook like a nervous animal, but to the wind rather than Evan. It taunted him by jostling. He centered his thoughts on it again, imagining it snap. But it didnt. Then again. Nothing. He tried once more with intensity in his eyes and sweat beading. But, no, still the weed swayed unabated. This sucks. Evan sighed. Youre trying to skip to the climax. You have to earn it. Start with the exposition, rising action, turning point, climax, then falling action. What the heck? Vihn frowned. Take your time. Quit rushing. Evan tried again and focused on the weeds every detail, the light green of its stem, the small branches with buds of yellow that jutted out from it in each direction. He imagined that the plant was breathing with him. It soaked the dimming rays of the Sun and drank up whatever water was below it. He panned the base to the top, then to the center where Vihn had snapped it in half. There was a crease there, a scar. He imagined it snapping, just as before. But again, nothing happened. The same strategy wouldnt work, so before giving up, he tried a different approach. He imagined how it came back together. He pictured the snapping of the plant in reverse. The detail was clear, the tendrils sprouting to each other and bonding. He imagined those tendrils pushing apart from each other. The scar bulged. The top half of the weed shot straight into the air, then fell back to the earth. The plant was contorted, half of the stem still in the ground, and the other twisting from it like stretched taffy, swirling in the dirt. Woah, freaky, man! Daniels voice cracked C having apparently wandered over to them. Uh... Evan felt two emotions, the first was frustration, the second a desire to try again. Vihn smirked. Thats a good place to stop. Its getting dark. Here, try this. Vihn flicked a vial from his jacket at Evan and then winked. Its genetically altered by Monolith Industries. Healing, eating, fighting, it does it all. Evan rotated the vial; in it was a familiar flower. The plant was the same size as his index finger, with five delicate, ivory petals that stroked against the glass. Despite Monolith screwing up with Titan Project, they still maintained a great influence on the Federation. Amongst this thought, Evan had another. If the rebels hadnt invaded Monolith during the Class Rebellion and sabotaged the labs, then would it be the Federation with powers and the rebels without? As he got back into the elevator, yet another question came to him. The government had been quick to demonize superhumans when the issue was out of their control, but they didnt blame the manufactures, and certainly not his father who had been the CEO. How much control did Evans dad really have, and what was Monoliths original plan for Titan Project? Whatever the answers were, he didnt know if he was ready to find out. Something darted across the darkened ruins, a blur of grey and gold. Evans skin crawled. Whats wrong? Vihn asked. Evan shook his head. I thought I saw something. Knowing whats out there in those ruins, you probably did. 14: "A Night With Blink" Evan gasped for air, pulling himself out of another nightmare. He sat up in his bottom bunk while his eyes adjusted to the darkness. There were a dozen other grey-green bunkbeds in this sardine container of a room. He ran his fingers through his hair and blew his anxiety out through his nostrils. Dead spiders clung to the bottom of the top bunks mattress. Bleeding light from an exit sign made them look like balls of red twine. Will I be like these spiders; a dead form stuck in a forgotten place? The top mattress depressed with a squeak. Blink poked her head over the side of the bed frame above him. Her hair dangled down, blocking out the red exit sign. Cant sleep? A stiffness grabbed Evans throat. Uhm... Not really. He hoped that the distress in his dreams didnt manifest in sleep talking or anything marginally embarrassing for her to have heard. Want to see something cool? She whispered. Evan smiled. He didnt know how she made him feel like he wasnt in control of himself. A supernatural kind of control, but not that of Affliction. It was in her smile. Sure, he said. She slipped out of the top bunk and lilted upon her bare feet. Evan threw off his blanket and matched Blinks hunched walk out of the bunkroom. They made their way down one of the hallways, past a console where Rowic slept face first in his keyboard, then past arched corridor to a door with a keypad. Blink turned to Evan. Wait here. A swirl of radiance flashed around Blink, and she disappeared right in front of a startled Evan. Moments later, the door popped open. Out slinked the girl, who motioned for Evan to keep following. He hesitated. She rubbed her temples for a moment and (before he thought to object) grabbed his arm and pulled him inside. The concrete room spanned like an ocean of grey with little orange lamps that dotted the space like fireflies. Evan was a mouse below the high ceiling. Two metal doors bisected the roof from one side to the other, big enough to welcome in the Moon (if the Moon had been visible). Dozens of crates were scattered across the floor, and at the center of the room was a row of airships. They were various shapes and sizes reminiscent of soda bottles, garbage cans, and flying saucers. On the right were guardrails and the roaring waterfall. Blink guided Evan left, past most of the pilotable heaps of metal, to an airship that was in far better condition. She said, I know you already saw the ship earlier, but you didnt really get a chance to explore it. It was true. Between waking up half-dead, socking Vihn, being teleported around, and rushing out to see his fathers dreadful interview C Evan hadnt had much time to see the fullness of the ship, but he didnt find it necessary to complain about any of that to her. She led him around the exterior of the deep blue machine. It resembled a bird, its folded wings slanted up into the air, meeting downward into a beak like cockpit; like it was pecking for seeds. The body was a box-like carriage with two side doors. It was the color of deep night, that shimmered orange where the lamps hit it. Ad Astra was sprayed on its hull in white letters. Additionally, a hatch clung to the roof, and another below the ship, both leading to small-automated gun turrets. The whole thing turns from dark blue to bright orange when it gets sunlight. Blink twisted on the tips of her toes. What do you think? Evan had seen plenty of airships while living in Dogma Isle and traveling across the country with his parents. Hed never been in a military interceptor like this, but hed seen them up close as escorts. Ad Astra dripped water from multiple points, and was scarred across its hull, yet it sat there with more life than some of the people Evan knew. He didnt have the words to explain how he felt about it, and only managed, Its really cool. Blink sat at the end of a crate facing the city, propped herself up with her arms, and stretched her legs straight out in front of her. She bent her head backward to Evan. Had you ever been in one? Before uh, everything?" Uhm. Maybe once, or twice. But never like this. Evan shrugged. Everything was a long list of events. She said, First time I flew on one was when Daniel crashed it. It didnt even lift off the ground. She rolled her eyes and puffed a collection of hair out of her face. Took me a while to get comfortable riding in it again. Is that why everyone keeps calling Daniel, Ace? Blink laughed, he hates that name. He used to brag that he was the best pilot out of Federation flight school, but not anymore. Hes a nice guy though. She waved at a crate next to her. Though Evan typically avoided conversation, some internal force tugged on him to talk more. He sat on the neighboring crate and was struck by a surprising view of the city. Firefly lamps floated across the terraces, giving warmth to the spread-out darkness. The market below continued to sizzle with the sound of grilling food and almost smelled good (when factoring out the sewage). Evan was reminded that what was cooking might be something less than desirable, but hed be deceiving himself if he said the smell wasnt tempting. Across the terraces, a guitar twang was met with light laughter and conversation. Even down in the lowliest places, there was still beauty to be found. Pretty, huh? Evan nodded. He thought about how many thousands there had to be in the city, and Daniels explanation still hadnt satisfied him. How is this possible? Like, Vihn and Rowic talked about the city defenses and stuff, but how can so many people willingly live in this place? How can they make it here and survive? Blink leaned forward, her arms dangling over the guardrail. We have to. Every day we make it is another day we prove the Feds wrong. Wrong about what? About life. People in the Federation are taught to fear anything less than perfection. But here, we take all the good, and the bad, and make something new out of it. Fear just holds us back. He found himself at a loss for words again. It seemed in his life that the bad trumped good every time, fear was the only thing that kept him alive in the past, and thered never been room for failure. Pondering it was depressing, so he changed the subject. How long have you and your brother been with the Blood Red Army? he asked. Ah. Three years or so. When our powers manifested, our parents dropped us off at some douches apartment, and then he sold us off to the rebels for heroin. Blinks enduring smile wilted, but she shook her head and the brightness returned to her. You didnt choose to join? No, but we chose to stay. Thats what matters. Not like we could go back and finish high school, anyway. Her fingers traced a gap in the crates side. She was certainly about Evans age; they could have been classmates. Sadly, not everyone had a politician for a father who could cheat the system, like Evan had. Schools probably worse than a heroin addict anyway, he said. This text was taken from Royal Road. Help the author by reading the original version there. Hah! Blink blurted. Twitch always says that. Maybe you two are the twins. Evan grinned, then realized something. Wait, you and your brother both got your powers at the same time? Blink nodded. Yeah, but he got his five minutes sooner. She jumped up and led Evan on a walk across the landing platform, past significantly less impressive ships. What about you, Evan? Whats your story? Well Vihn kidnapped me and now here I am. Here you are! Blink opened her arms to the sky. So, you and I are alike, being kidnapped and sold off to the evil rebels, just to find out theyre the only people we can call family. Evan didnt know how he felt about that last part. He had a brother and father already, and he still viewed the rebels as just a means to help his real family. But he couldnt bring himself to tell her the truth, so he settled for a shrug. A sobering thought crawled into his mind. Why was Blink giving him this attention? Surely there were other people shed connected with more if this was her family. Shed given her whole attention to a new guy, someone who she didnt know, and for what? What had she been doing before hed arrived? Waiting around for the most awkward, quiet, son of an enemy to come into her life? It seemed too simple But Evan hoped it wasnt, that this was a genuine interest that she showed in him. That here he might have found someone else in the world whod want to know him, spend time with him, make him feel wanted. Hey! Blink shouted, catching Evan off guard, and draining his building doubt into the pit where his other fears and anxieties hid. I didnt get to see your power yet, lets go! She pulled him out of the hanger and through the tunnels again, which seemed arbitrary since she could have probably teleported them at a whim. Why walk anywhere? he asked. Oh man, yeah youre right, then I wouldnt have to talk to you! she giggled, and Evan did too. Come on. At the end of the tunnel were several floodlights that Blink switched on. A huge collection of scrap metal, barrels, and paint cans surrounded a wall colorfully painted with a giant mural of dozens of faces. They were all made in different styles as if painted by more than one person. Evan recognized seven of the faces, the members of Phoenix One. For the people Evan didnt recognize, they had quotes C events, and dates written around them with dripping paint like shimmering halos. This is the family. Blink pointed to the people Evan recognized, Thats Cranston, Vihn, Rowic, Nyla, Daniel, Twitch, and me. Evan tried to connect the other faces to someone else he might have seen at the base. Who are the others? Her smile softened. The others havent made it as far as we have. So, we write our favorite memories about them, and dates of when they joined, to when they left. The words made more sense now that shed explained it. One face was of an older man. His halo said, To prove he was the fastest man alive, he decided to beat us in a race to heaven. See you on those golden tracks. C Ronald. There were only seven faces awaiting their halos, surrounded by twenty with circlets painted above their heads. Im sorry, Evan said. Hey, its ok, Blink replied, they fought the good fight. Now their struggles are over, you know? We just gotta do our part to keep their legacy moving. So many people had died and continued to die. The more Evan saw the faces of the rebels before him, the more he realized he had been a coward hiding behind his wealthy father. He wondered if the bartenders face should be up there, or perhaps he wasnt technically a member of this team. If Evan died, would they paint him up there? Evan mulled on that for a moment. Despite the sadness he felt, the art was still breathtaking. Who painted them? My brother and I, Cranston, Nyla, Daniel aaaand all the others. Its been a family project, you feel? We all added a little part to it. Blink turned to Evan. I need to get something really quick. She flashed away and almost instantly reappeared with a set of ear pods, and a small phone. She wiped her nose with the back of her hand and shook her head. Finally, she smiled and offered an ear pod to Evan. Do you like music? Evans eyes lit up. Hed lost his phone and all his music back at Hazard Station and longed to hear something again. He nodded to her offer without hesitation. They sat on barrels, facing the mural. The ear pods rung with the soothing melody orchestrated from an adaptive A.I. First, it hummed with vibrant tones, stagnated by a low bass. Then another melody joined in with the first. This time, it was a slow counter symphony, laden by strums. The music waned and descended into alternating beats and swells. The song was a collection of their feelings all woven together. Blink closed her eyes and swayed her head to the rhythm. For the first time in a long time, Evan felt peace. He felt safe. It was like the world melted away, and he was back on that beach with his father. But this time, Blink was there too. He hadnt felt this way about another person before. As he admired her, the paint cans trembled, the wet pigments licking up underneath their thin lids. Evan tensed his muscles and turned away from her and the cans became still. Whats wrong? Blink asked, plucking out her ear pod. Evan shook his head. Sorry, its nothing. I see. She smirked mockingly. That''s fine mister tough guy, just keep on brooding and not talking about your feelings. Evan relented. Ok, ok. I dont like using my Affliction. I dont have any control over it, you know? You dont like using your powers? Embarrassment hit Evan. Shed used her powers ever since she got them, but hed done everything he could to hide his. He wanted to open up to her, to someone, and despite his apprehensions, she did seem genuine. My story is weird. My father He adopted my best friend and did everything he could to keep our Afflictions a secret. I grew up having to resist my powers so I wouldnt get arrested, and so my family would be safe too. She sighed. Hey, I get it. Trust me, a lot of us have a past. She waved a hand across the mural. Most of us take on new names once we go underground. Names we choose, because we arent our past, or our families. Were us. It was a great idea, taking on a self-identity for oneself. Why do you and your brother only go by Blink and Twitch? The others seem to go by their normal names. Who said those arent our normal names? Evan stammered, I, well- Kidding. Its a long story, but basically, we decided we didnt want to be tied to who we were anymore. We wanted a Tabula Rasa, you know? Huh? Tabula Rasa! Andrea uses the word sometimes. It means: a fresh start, a new beginning. Evan liked that, as pretentious as the phrase sounded, it was cool to have a word for something he hadnt known there was a word for. Blink squinted at Evan. Hey, do you want a nickname? We could do something like Disintegrator, or Decay. Ooh, or Corrosion. Something really metal. He couldnt imagine himself with a name like any of those, but he realized he might not need one. Thanks, but I think I know what you mean already. Evan is my identity, while Evangelos Hendricks belongs to the Governor. Amen. Well, I think the next step to becoming your own man is kicking off the restrictions and nailing down your powers. Evan sighed. Hey, no pressure, just listen to the music and well see what happens. Blink popped the ear pod back in and returned to her seat next to Evan. She was right. The Federation still had control over him as long as he didnt use his powers. The music flowed through his ears. He relaxed his body. He could feel the atmosphere of the room, the barrels underneath him, then the concrete floor below that. He could feel Blinks breath. Her chest lifting, her lungs expanding with air. Her heart beating along with his. An image flashed through his mind of the Federation soldier he killed back at Hazard Station; their bodies twisted and mutilated because of his thoughts. He shook off the idea, afraid to harm her in the same way. He turned to the mural, then to the paint cans: metal silos that encased deep colors. Inside, the liquid lashed against the walls and swirled. Then the paints seeped into the air from the metal shells with each strum of chords, and whirled into great torrents. Blinks face brightened, far more than Evan thought possible. The paints C red, orange, blue, purple, green C waved far above the cans like the trees of the forest, swaying along with the symphony as one. Evans heart raced, his mind along with it. But he wasnt passing out and nothing was exploding. Was this freedom? Blinks smile took over his thoughts. But something else was there. Her face flashed into his mothers, her smile, her decaying body. Help! Get away from me! He heard. Evans mind swam, and the paints splashed against the concrete, sending the colors everywhere just short of Evan and Blink. Fortunately, the mural was spared from the mess. Woah, you alright? Blink hopped off the barrel. Yeah, I just Sorry. Blink chuckled. Dont sweat it, hero. Youll figure it out. That doubt still lingered in his mind. He finally asked her, Why? Like Why are you doing any of this? Dont you have other things going on? She chewed on her lip while staring at him, the warmth of the night teetering on an edge. His chest thumped. Ive just ruined everything, didnt I? She smiled again, snatching the warmth back before itd depleted, and said, I think I was where you were once. If Id lost my brother, Id do everything I could try and save him too. I guess I get it. I had a friend who shes She helped me and my brother find ourselves here. Its worth saving the people we love, and we cant do it alone. His body relaxed as his doubts were diminished, feeling nothing from her but grounded-ness. Evan smiled, but he knew it didnt match Blinks. She stretched out a hand to Evan. Thanks for tonight. Uh. Yeah, thank you too. He met her gesture. There was something in her hand. When he pulled away, he found the phone and the ear pods in his grasp. He looked up to her. Keep it, Evan. You could use the music more than me right now. Just promise to give it back, ok? The grandest elation swelled his chest. Ok. Thank you, Blink. I will. He went to bed that night, putting in the ear pods and starting up the music A.I. again. The sound soothed him, but Evan still couldnt sleep that night because one thing danced in his mind. Did I just make a friend? 15: "Red Haven" Evan gagged and his nostrils burned from the musky smell of whatever poor creature lay on his metal cafeteria tray. How the smell had seemed tempting from afar was beyond him. This misshapen meat might have been a rat, but to keep the contents of his stomach a secret, he decided it was best not to examine the dead thing any further. He nudged aside the food and watched the market around him. According to Daniel, they ate food from the marketplace twice a week in order to ration their MREs. The city was sluggish to wake. Lazy trails of smoke lifted above the shacks of Alpha base, the giant TVs running on with their news broadcasts and ancient sports videos. Evan sat at a white plastic table by himself, while other rebels gathered around their own sections; an old woman with sagging skin, a man wrapped in thick blankets, and a child with a prosthetic limb were some of the more notable individuals. Not what Evan would consider soldiers, and they were only a few among hundreds in the market, and thousands in the base. Were they all Afflicted, or did they have other reasons for throwing their lives in with the Blood Red Army? What if the Federation found them? Would they kill them all the same? The rest of Phoenix One sat together at another table. Daniel, Nyla, Cranston, Blink, Twitch, and even Rowic laughed and ate together. It looked like fun, Evan thought. He caught a glimpse of Blinks eye. She had been looking right at him. He dropped his head, but she got up from the groups table and walked over to him while the others watched. Hows it hanging, Evan? Blink slid her tray of food next to him. Uh, nothing, he said, trying to salvage his awkward predicament by smiling. Of course, Blinks smile far overpowered his own. Blink said, You shouldnt be eating alone! Come join us. Its ok. Im ok. Mmm, alright solitude, dude. Mind if I join you then? Uh, yeah. I mean, no. He scooted over for her. One person isnt bad, Im not that hopeless at conversation. But then Blinks twin followed over. Their combined smiles disarmed Evan for a moment. Ok, two people. A firm pressure gripped his shoulders. It was Cranstons meaty arm as he sat next to him. In fact, all the team members relocated to Evans table. He shrunk; afraid theyd put all their attention on him. But instead, they returned to their previous conversation, and Evan found himself easing up. Eventually, Cranston did ask, Hows sleep been working for you? Evan shrugged. Ive slept in worse places. Cranston chuckled. I doubt that. I lived in Dogma Isle for well over a decade, just like you. Even the trashy places have class compared to a bunkroom in the middle of a sewer. You grew up in the capital? Yes sir, Cranston nodded, I was head of border security. Still are, Nyla said. Yeah, as far as the Feds know. You still work for the Feds? Evan asked. Dont they wonder where you are when youre with us? The southerner shrugged. Theres certain freedoms that come with being a war hero. He gave a somber grimace as if to say that the subject was off limits. Evan wondered what could drive a man to go from Federation hero to a rebel leader. Had Cranston been in the same situation as Joseph Krow or the soldiers who took Ken, given the choice of murdering a defenseless man or betraying the government? Regardless, Evan was glad he wasnt the only Federation traitor amongst the Blood Red Army. One of the giant TV screens had text scrolling up, down, left, and right C depending on what language the information was written in. From what Evan could catch, they were statistics. One new ally this week. Ten allies killed this month. Active purifiers in the Eastern Sector: Ida Nelson P-06, Leon Melk P-10 Joseph Krow P-05. Never had reading a name given Evan chills until seeing Krows scroll by. Hazard Station clawed into his mind again. He tightened his eyes, pushing the memories back, hiding the deaths, the cracking, the blood C You, ok? Blink asked. Evan shook his head. Yeah, sorry. He didnt look at the lists anymore. He asked, So, wheres your leader, Vihn? Doesnt he eat with you? This story originates from Royal Road. Ensure the author gets the support they deserve by reading it there. Nyla wrung her head. Leader, he says. Isnt he in charge of you guys? Blink nudged Evan. Its not worth bringing up, she whispered. Daniel said, Yeah, hes in charge of us, and we fly on his ship for sure. But he doesnt really do that leading thing. Dig? This surprised Evan. The way you guys and Andrea talked, it seemed like you were a specialized unit. Nyla whistled. We arent enforcers. Vincent does his own thing; we just show up. If anything, Cranstons our leader. Alright, thats enough of that, Cranston said while taking a sip from his bowl. Ah, Cranston still cant get past that Fed training, he has to do everything based on chain of command, Daniel teased. Shut it. What? Cranston sighed and spoke to Evan. Dont listen to them. Especially not Daniel, he wasnt there to see Vihn go toe-to-toe with Krow some years back. Hes the only one to win a solo fight with a purifier. Not much of a win when that thing is still a walking, talking, killing cyborg, Nyla said. Daniel smirked. Well, that ones your fault, isnt it? She socked his shoulder. Cranston didnt acknowledge their comments. To answer your question, Evan, he eats his food the ship by himself. Daniel leaned over his undisturbed food. Say, whats Vihns plan for you anyway? Hows he going to train you to take on purifiers, fight your dad, and dismantle the regime? Evan bit his cheek. He had no real intention of fighting his dad or taking a purifier one-on-one like Vihn. But he had to go along with it if he was going to get the rebels to help him find Ken. He didnt tell me, Evan answered. A loud blaring symphony pulled his attention to the giant television screens again. Federation News Broadcast. Good morning, citizens of the Federation. Evangelos Hendricks Junior, purifier crack down, and Unification Day! Well cover it all, and more, now! Before Evan could process that theyd just said his name, the screen flashed to a video call interview. The reporter was in a box in the right corner of the TV, and the rest of the screen dedicated to Evan, who was wearing a suit and tie What the Evan mumbled, the real one, the one who was in a cafeteria deep in a hidden rebel base, buried beneath city ruins C most definitely not being interviewed and wearing a suit. The team looked back and forth between the screen and him, showing just as much confusion on their faces as he felt. The reporter opened with a generic greeting, and asked, How has the North been this time of year? Very cold, the imposter said, eliciting a chuckle from the reporter. Ive really enjoyed my chance to see how other parts of the Federation function. Its been a great opportunity to see how well the Slovakians have been integrated into our culture Daniel asked, When did you do this? I didnt, Evan said. Youre right there, man. Deepfake, Rowic said as he swiped through his tablet. Techs been around forever, but its supposed to be illegal to use. Laws never stop a government, I guess. Anyway, theyre using a form of machine learning thats copied Evans features from his other interviews and then mapped that on to an actor of similar proportions, or maybe a CG rendering. You can tell slightly by some feathering on his lips. It happens when they try to have him say something that the program doesnt have footage of. There. Like when he said Slovakians again. You can tell the program is trying to adapt to the word, but they probably dont have enough footage of him making those mouth formations. It was evident how far the Federation was working to keep what had happened to Evan a secret. More so, he wondered how many other times they must have fabricated reports and footage. They could make him do or say whatever they wanted But his voice. It sounded just like him, perfectly, not like a computer program trying to sound like him or his words being stitched together. It was his voice. Howd they find an actor that sounds like me so fast? Evan asked. Rowic shrugged. Theres lots of possibilities. Maybe, but I know someone who can sound exactly like me While Evan processed everything, he noticed some other people in the cafeteria give him side glances as they passed by. He covered his face with his hands, remembering what Daniel had said about not being able to trust everyone. People are starting to notice me, maybe we should go, he said. Cranston nodded. I think youre right. Come on, chitlins, lets head back- His words broke as the broadcast changed. The video ran clips of a town being raided by enforcers, drones, gunships, and a purifier. Some gunfire and Afflicted powers flashed, but the video was spliced so that none of the presumable rebels were shown. The footage concluded with enforcers marching a line of captured suspects in vans, their hands bound, and heads covered. The old lady in the cafeteria wailed, followed by gasps and cries from others in the market. Cranstons face tightened bright red and scowling. Whats going on? Evan whispered to Blink. She didnt look at him, focusing on the screen. That was New Avalon. A lot of our people live there and its close. Cranston pressed his ear, then acknowledged the team. Vihn wants us to head to Addy. The team made their way out of the marketplace, Evan towing behind. He didnt know what to make of it. Was this his fight? Was this his war? What he did understand was their pain. The anger, crying, and determination he saw on the faces of each person he passed reminded him of himself. It reminded him of that night at Hazard Station, and the death hed seen, how he had to do something. He couldnt help but feel like this was all happening because of him. As they ascended the lift to the upper terraces, the screen changed once again. A well reminder, echoed the news reporters voice, that Unification Day is just around the corner. Let us never forget the lives lost in the conflict between terrorists and Federation citizens. As we move to celebrate the end of the civil war and the anniversary of the Purifier Initiative, let us not forget that it was the drive of men like President Nero Caine who crafted the world we live in now, and it will be men and women like him who will see us into a world of peace. Nyla shouted something at the reporter in her language. The lift stopped. All the lights and tech blacked out. Red lights popped on, spinning, and carpeting the city in crimson illumination. There was no sound, no alarms, or voices C just the woosh of the waterfall colliding with the sewer river, illuminated by the red. Like a fountain of blood. Whats happening? Evan asked. Cranston whispered, Theyre here. 16: "A Bullet for Each" Cranston messed with the insides of an orange operating box at the back of the elevator. No, sir, he said to into his comm. We were on the lift when it went dark. Evan feared the implications. How did the Feds find the base? Rowic flicked through his tablet. I dont think they did, yet. What Im seeing are friendly signatures making their way here. Must be refugees from New Avalon. Nyla hissed, Idiots. Then whats up with the power? Rowic said, Its a defense for when Feds are closing in, makes sure they cant track the huge power signatures the base gives off. Normally were more prepared for this sort of thing, but Feds havent made a push like this on a sympathizer town in a while. Evan couldnt help but wonder if this was another link in the chain of events he started. Blink, Cranston said, still fiddling with the lift controls, grab Evan and Nyla and get to Addy. I can get us all, Blink argued. No, I dont want you pushing yourself. Go. We dont have time. She nodded and hugged Twitch goodbye before laying a hand on Evan and Nyla. The world spun in a shower of light, and then the three of them were in front of Ad Astra in the hanger bay. They navigated a sea of black and red shadows and up the airships ramp. Vihn was already onboard, calling out orders through the cockpit radio, while a stream of radio chatter filled the cabin. Picking up ten, no twenty- Help us! Are there purifiers? Vihn asked. Help -! Not so far. All teams, whos- Ka-ka-ka-ka. This way! Oh, god. Theyre leading them straight to the mountain. Where are all the teams? We cant let them find the base. The Feds will break the illusion barrier if they get too close. Vihn flipped a toggle on the ceiling that initiated the purr of the ships engines. This is the leader of Phoenix One. Drive the refugees and Feds into the ruins. Focus on saving our people. The ruins? But- Thats an order, came a resolute voice that sounded like Andreas. Ye-Yes, madame Ark. All squads, divert the engagement line toward the ruins- Vihn snapped a toggle, killing the radio chatter, and turned around. Wheres everyone else? Blink said, Theyre still stuck on the lift. Cranston said to go ahead. Vihn sighed. Fine. Gear up, were heading into it. Nyla and Blink nodded and ran out of the room. This is really happening. Evan hadnt had much time to think about what was going on, driven by action. Actively fighting Feds? Was he ready for that? They killed your friend. Remember that, Vihn said. Hes not dead. Evan scowled. He could be. Theyll kill us, thats their purpose, and theyll kill a lot more people tonight. Theyll kill you if they get the chance. Remember that kid. They look human, sound human, show human emotions too C but when they see you, they see it. Something to be exterminated. Dont give them that chance. Im not a murderer. Vihn spoke evenly, Tell that to the people youve already killed. Screw you. He had never planned to hurt someone; they were all accidents. No He had killed on purpose. Hed brought the helicopter down on those armored cars back in Hazard Station to escape. He did it to survive. It had been the right thing But it would have never happened if hed just listened to his father and waited. But if hed listened, would his father have tried to save Ken? Did he really turn Ken in to save Evan? The questions were a torrent that swept over Evan, and if he didnt gain his footing soon, hed drown. So, he pushed it all down again. Thered be time to deal with this again, assuming he survived the next few moments. If you spot this story on Amazon, know that it has been stolen. Report the violation. The ship rocked as the ramp closed. Vihn said, You might think youre doing the right thing by sparing one of them, but theyll just use your charity as a second chance to kill someone else. Evan didnt have the words to rebuttal because he believed some part of that. Hed yet to see the Feds show mercy. Except, Cranston had been one of them before joining the rebels. If one man could be shown forgiveness and be redeemed, then there had to be another one worthy of it out there somewhere. Regardless, if Evan could help it, he wasnt going to kill anyone. Not anymore. He wasnt a monster. Hed prove he wasnt. Hed save anyone he could. He took a deep breath, nodded to Vihn, and left the cockpit. Evan stumbled through the shaking hallway to the main deck as Ad Astra ascended. Blink handed Evan a black backpack that was filled with supplies. He pulled out an earpiece, a smartwatch, a belt with metal rope cord, a medical kit, a folding knife with several odd grooves and notches, a pair of black framed glasses, and a holster with a handgun and two spare mags. Evan took out the weapon, examining its slick frame, switches, trigger, and deadly barrel. Ive never used one of these before. Sheesh, Nyla said, hes going to get us killed. She pulled back the slide of her own gun and strapped it to her belt. Blink rolled her eyes at Nyla, and offered a hand to Evan. I can show you. He shook his head, Its fine. I dont need it. She bit her lip. Evan I wont use it. I just want to focus on helping people. If I need to defend myself, I can use my powers. He handed it back to her. She took it, her face seeming less than convinced, but she broke into a smile. Me too. She took her gun and Evans and hid them in a container next to other packs of gear. I If something happens to you because of that, I wont be able to forgive myself. She scoffed. Im old enough to make my own decisions, dad. Youre right, were here to save people first. Her resolve continued to impress him, and a new confidence filled him knowing he wouldnt be alone in his overtly romanticized attempt to save people without violence. Well, if all turned out successful, maybe hed commit to a non-violent trend and if it failed, he might not have to burden his conscience for much longer. Evan put the rest of the gear on. His ear rang with the voices of the team. Running stealth program, Fed sensors should struggle with that, Rowic said over his ear device. Cranston was next. Andrea sent Daniel, Twitch, and me to corral the runners in zone twelve. Copy, Vihn said. He shouted from the cockpit, Get ready, you three. Were heading to city central. Im going to drop low enough for you to jump. Evan shouted, Cant this thing hover close to a building for us to step out? I cant risk staying still. They have interceptor drones and gunships; wed be too vulnerable hovering. Got it, Blink flashed a thumbs up. Ill port us there. I dont mean your powers, I mean jump. The ramp whined as it lowered, welcoming in the freezing cold. Vihn switched to the comms. We have to get as many people into our ship as possible, but you wont be able to do that if you burn out too quick. Jump off the ramp when I say so, holding on to Evan and Nyla, and wait until the last moment to port. Just make sure to land somewhere soft. The concept circled in Blinks eyes. She nodded, a confident smirk on her lips. Aye, aye Capn. Nyla smacked her hands together, rale! The distance from the ship to the group stole Evans nerves from him. The city of broken towers and tangled overgrowth sprawled out like a miniature set, wrapped by the embrace of a blood orange sky. The mountains and false forest hung to the right, and to the left was a field of death. Dozens of gunships and drones peppered the earth with gunfire where hundreds of silhouetted people ran and fell. Behind them was a brigade of armored cars. At the edge of the city, rockets and machine guns fired back at the pursuing Federation forces. Several gunships and armored cars burst into fiery red smoke. Making our descent, Vihn said. This is insane. Evan stared out at the horror of war as the ship lowered and the silhouettes below become small people, which became clear bodies of dying and fearful humans. Theyre killing them all. Blink beckoned him closer to the ramp. Hey, were going to save those people. Thats what we do. Were not going to let anymore innocents die, right? The hope that she exuberated plucked some deep courage out of him that he didnt know was there, and he reached out for Blinks hand and prepared to do something he never dreamt hed do before; get involved. Get ready, in three. Nyla joined them as they stood at the back of the ramp, Blink in the center. The tallest structures of the city pulled up like whales bursting out of the sea. Their windows were all shattered holes, with snaking tendrils of plants slithering out of them. Two. Lord, dont let me die. Now! The three of them leapt from the safety of a perfectly good airship out into the sky, the rubble and cratered roads only meters away. Before they could splat, Blink teleported them a meter higher, resetting their position above a bomb crater that was flooded with water. Splash! Evan thrashed to the surface of the crater lake and pulled himself onto the street. Mossy water sloshed across the asphalt as he crawled. The cool air leached his bodys warmth from him. Woohoo! Blink cheered, pulling herself on to the street with Nyla, water whipping off her like a dog getting out of a bath. Evan envied her enduring sense of adventure. You make it? Vihn asked over the commlink. Blink waved to Ad Astra as it passed back over them. Yep. Good. Theres a mob heading your way. Blink, bring them up to me as I pass over this building, Nyla and Evan, hold off any Feds. The ship pivoted for another pass. Cries echoed down the streets, met with gunfire, thuds, and other horrifying noises. Lets go. Nyla jumped to her feet and ran toward the sounds; Blink quick after her. Ok dont die, dont kill, dont get other people killed I can do this, Evan said, with faith bleeding through his veins. He hurried after them, the air like ice against his dripping clothes. Nature had grown like a parasite out of this citys carcass, the cars overtaken by briar bushes, and street cables strangled by tree vines. Creatures scattered across the road: birds, rabbits, snakes, and clusters of insects. A sickening smoky smell masked it all, cadenced by the cracking and popping of nearing gunfire. To be so close to destruction again, and willingly so, Evan wondered when his need to test his luck would finally lead to his death. A scream stopped the team. They backed up against a wall and watched as a dozen refugees fled down an intersecting road. Crack. One of them, a shorter person that Evan told himself wasnt a child, rolled to the ground still holding on to a mans hand. He dropped to tug the boy up, but the body didnt move. Crack. There they both lay. 17: "War and Mutant Wolves" Asesinos. Nyla cracked her knuckles and sprinted into the carnage. Blink made after her, but turned back to Evan. You can do this. For them. Something inside of him wanted to flee, to tug him away; to sprout wings and take him up into the sky. He grabbed hold of that internal coward, that enemy, wanting to strangle it, kill its will over him. But was killing a demon any better than killing a man? He didnt have the time to debate. So, he didnt destroy his fear, but trampled it back into that pit of emotion for now. Said emotional pit was getting crowded. Lets save someone, he said, joining Blink. She split after the refugees. Ill help them. You-! Ill go after the Feds. Blink turned her stifled words into a respectful nod, and went for her target, while Evan went after his. Five soldiers advanced out into the opening; guns trained on the runners. Aaaahh! Nyla swung her arm. The ground exploded at the center of the soldiers, sending them back in a cloud of dust and shrapnel. She charged into the cloud. Boom! A soldier flew into the air. Evan dug up his courage and ventured into the fray. But there were more than just soldiers. A V of drones whisked above Evans head, panels shifting back to reveal clicking arms and needle thin darts that they fired at the refugees. Worse still, another squad of enforcers advanced up the street. Nyla charged the reinforcements, rocking them in rubble and fire. It didnt take long to hear screams, indicating Nylas effective brutality. So, Evan turned to the drones. He reached out to the sky, as if he could grab those round shells of metal in his hands. He tried to feel them, but all he felt was the air between his fingers. He pushed deeper into his thoughts. Remember Krows eye, and Vihns vines. Remember the helicopter, beating in your hands. He pictured the drone, its armor peeling back off it like a grape. Nothing. The machines gunned down another refugee. Blink flashed in and out, grabbing who she could, more winded with each teleport. Dont skip to the climax. Vihns lesson played in his head. Evan took a deep breath. He focused on a single drone, one closest to him. He noted its black metal, the way light glistened from it imperfectly where it was scuffed. Its arms were twigs, clicking against its vibrating underplate. Evan reached his hand out again, feeling the curvature in his hand C what he could imagine, anyway. He pictured the armor plate chipping at the seams where it was bonded to the machine, the dome cracking open like an egg. It did. Metal snapped apart at the joining place between the underplate and the hull C fading into dust. The plate dropped from the drone, and so did the robot as its gravity-suspensions were destroyed. Yes! Evan yelled. The other drones swung around and faced him. Crap. He dropped behind a car as a volley of glass syringes burst all around him. It was then that Evan realized the Feds might not have been screaming because of Nylas powers, but because of three beasts that were devouring them. He struggled to fathom it at first. Wolves, near the size of the cars on the street, gnashed their horrible teeth over the dead. Their black hides bristling with an unnatural convulsion, and their eyes were phosphorus gold. Nyla swore. She had made her way to Evan and was rubbing her back. A grouping of drone needles had hit her, releasing their toxin. She flung one more defiant explosion over Evans head, sending the rest of the drones raining to the asphalt in a mess of debris. Then she collapsed. One of the wolves, hulking compared to the other three, stalked Nylas body with blood dripping from its jowls. Evan jumped to his feet. Get away from her! He thrust his hands out, but before he could do anything, bullets connected with the beast and sent spurts of blood into the air. An enforcer had fired her gun at the wolf, drawing its attention. She fired into it again, but the beast continued to pursue this new prey. Evan watched the animals fur in wonderment. The bullet wounds writhed and expanded until the bullets were pushed back out of its body, and the skin sewed itself back together. Unlawfully taken from Royal Road, this story should be reported if seen on Amazon. Its Afflicted Evan had once seen a bird with three eyes, which was mutant enough for a school lockdown while officers came to capture it. But hed never heard of an animal with powers. It was horrifying, and it was amazing. He steadily approached Nylas body. She was still breathing. Now, all three wolves stalked the enforcer, who backed up helplessly. The enforcer tripped over the body of another soldier. Her helmet popped off and rolled to the side. Her short black hair was matted back, and her eyes quivered in fear. Now she wasnt a faceless enemy; she was a human crawling back in desperation as predators came to devour her. Vihn had warned him about this exact circumstance. But to let someone die to let someone be devoured that wasnt who he was C it wasnt who he wanted to be. He reached out his arms, digging deep into his powers, visualizing each clump of fur and corded muscle of the lead wolf. It reared back and howled as its hide was seared by Evans powers, the molecules of fur and skin being burnt away. The creature yelped, and Evan stopped. You idiot, idiot! Dont stop. Its just an animal. Theyre all just animals, you cant feel bad for freaking animals. But I do. What a useless hero youre going to be if you cant help anyone, coward. You cant save predator and prey at the same time. Someones always going to die. Who are you going to let it be? His mind dizzied from the familiar strain of his powers. The wolf leapt for him. Evan screamed, stretching his fingertips out. Blood and dust peeled from the wolfs face, revealing bone and veins. It dropped to the ground squealing. The beast scratched at its missing eye. With a yelped command, it fled down the street, followed by the other two. Evans muscles quivered. He dropped next to Nyla again, feeling himself slipping away from exertion. But he sobered when he noticed the enforcer staring at him, gun still held in hand. She could shoot him now, and he was too weak to stop her. But she was hesitating. Bright light enveloped the space next to her. A fist connected with her cheek, sending her limp to the ground. Blink stood over the Fed, wheezing, and cradling her hand. Another soldier laying on the ground, whom the first had tripped over, drew their pistol. Blink flashed behind them and kicked the soldier square in the temple, sending them flat. The two soldiers lay unconscious on either side of Blink now. She dropped to her knees, wincing at some pain in her hand. Evan ran over to her. You alright? Blink asked him through gritted teeth. Yeah, are you? He examined where the pain was coming from. Her fingertips were flickering between a state of skin and vibrant light. He asked, Whats going on? Dont touch it, Evan. Its my drawback. I jumped around too much, and part of me is having a hard time catching up. Itll pass, just dont touch. He nodded in understanding. Vihn? He asked, hoping the rebel could hear him through the commlink. Evan? Yeah, its me. We need to get out of here, Nylas out. Copy. Blink did good, were almost full. Looks like the Feds are being pushed out. Im going to bring Addy to you. Get ready. Evan looked at the two defeated Feds next to him. Blink also knocked out two Feds. There was a brief pause. Bring them, too. The flickering on Blinks fingers dissipated, leaving behind blackened skin at the tips. She sighed. That was fun. Lets get Ny. Evan and Blink lay Nyla next to the unconscious soldiers. The sounds of battle had nearly dissipated. The Sun made its descent, pulling red skies down amidst black clouds of smoke. A giant bird cut across the sky, lowering to the buildings, its wings folding close to its body as it hovered near the tall structures. It was Ad Astra carefully fitting itself past the buildings to the street. There was no place for it to fully land, so it remained hovering and dropped its ramp on top of a car, which allowed Evan and Blink to load Nyla onto the ship where dozens of refugees were already safely waiting. Vihn confirmed that the needles had only administered a sedative and that Nyla would be ok. Then they carried in the two Feds. Just as the pair were helping the last enforcer onto the ship, a drone spiraled from the sky toward them. Look out! Blink grabbed Evan. In a flash, Evan and Blink were out of harms way as the drone exploded into the car they had been standing on. Aaaghh! Blink grabbed her wrist as her hand flickered with light, but this time the light moved downward, turning her fingers in a scaley greyish color. Evan called out, Vihn! Somethings happening to Blink, her drawback! Get her on the ship, he commanded. Evan climbed into Ad Astra with Blink in his arms. The crowd of survivors backed away as Evan lay her on the cold floor of the ship. Vihn rushed into the quarters, a flower vial already popped open in hand. He poured the contents onto her shoulder and pressed his hands against it. The plant sprouted vines and wrapped around her arm to meet the glowing ring that had now passed into her knuckles, leaving behind decayed skin. The green vanguard disappeared as it collided with the corrosion, halting the terrible advance. Evan understood now why Blink had told him not to touch the glow. He watched helplessly as Blink cried in pain. Was it going to consume all of her? Vihn sent his plants up and round the parts of the hand that had already been burnt. They glowed the same whiteness that was in his eyes. The corrosion stopped, though the skin was not fully restored. Unfortunately, the ring of light had continued until it had reached Blinks wrist before fully dissipating, leaving her with a hand that looked like a corpses. She sat up, staring at this changed part of her. Her finger flexed stiffly. She didnt say anything about it, she just looked up at Evan, weak eyed. You, ok? She smiled. That caught him off guard, considering how she was obviously the one hurt. Yeah. He said meekly. Cool. Vihn stood and rubbed his eyes until the glowing had left it. Lets get out of here. As the ship flew back into the air, Evan looked out the window and saw the Federation invasion force retreating, a fraction of the size it had been when it invaded. You guys were right, he said to Vihn in the cockpit. They lost a lot of soldiers Vihn sighed. I dont think itll be the same the next time. What do you mean? Theyve never gone that deep into the city before. We need to find out what our two captives know so we can be ready for the next attack. Evan looked back to the soldiers who lay tied to the floor, and Nyla who lay on a bench in Blinks lap. Blink stroked Nylas hair with her good hand. Why would the Feds equip the drones with sedatives if they had come to kill all the rebels? Had they been planning to capture some of them? If so, then where would they have taken those theyd captured? What would they do to them? Evan wondered if all captured Afflicted shared the same fate as Ken. If there was someone who could tell him, it was those two captured enforcers. The time had come to figure out where the heck Ken was. 18: "Traitor Among Traitors" Kira Vass, E-2012. Designation: Afflicted Containment Unit, one of the captured enforcers said with her eyes closed, her shaven head rested against the wall of her cell. Shed repeated the phrase over and over for the last hour. Her resolve was equally annoying as it was impressive to Evan. Kira Vass, E-2012. Designation: Afflicted Containment Unit, she said yet again. Shut up and answer me already, Vihn said. Which one is it? She replied. Huh? Though her eyes remained closed, she raised an eyebrow as if punctuating her question. Shut up, or answer you? Just shut up. Vihn muted the screen. Hopeless. It disappointed Evan that Vihn was so easily tilted by her resistance. Evan had no illusions about his own ability interrogating a trained soldier, but he understood enough about people to know that Vihn shouldnt be showing his frustration. Of course, Evan also had no illusions about his own ability to control his emotions either. Their two enforcer captives had been moved into adjacent holding cells within Alpha Base. These rooms were concrete coves with drab green iron doors. Vihn talked to them by means of a monitor window built into the face of each cell, like a digital one-way mirror. The rest of the team had gone off to assist the refugees and wounded, except for Cranston. The old southerner had worked as an enforcer for over three decades and claimed to know how to deal with them, and Evan hoped that he could figure out where Ken was being held. Try the other enforcer, Cranston suggested. The other prisoner sat against the wall of her cell as well. She was the one that Evan had saved from the wolf. Unlike the other one, shed been silent since. She held her head between her knees and draped her arms across them. Her short black hair was disheveled and oily; just long enough to block out her face. Vihn flicked a switch on the cell control panel and said over the microphone, Do you fear pain? Evan and Cranston grimaced at this. She gave no response. Bahhh. Vihn muted the screen and walked up a flight of metal stairs that led back to the terraces of Alpha Base. Let them stew. One of them will break eventually. Or well kill them. Cranston sighed. Come on kid, lets get something to eat. Evan refused to give up already. Maybe later. Whatever floats your boat. Oh. Theres a camera watching and listening to the happenings in this hallway, so dont worry none about anything going wrong. Well know. Evan couldnt tell if Cranston had meant that as a warning about the prisoners, or so he wouldnt try anything stupid. Maybe both. He nodded and waited for Cranston to leave. Evan respected Cranston, but making stupid choices until something worked was the only plan he ever had. He unmuted Kiras screen. E-2012, designation AfflictedC Where do you take Afflicted after you arrest them? She scrunched her face, How old are you? Thats notC Kira Vass, EC Evan muted that channel. Maybe he should try talking with the other soldier, the one he had saved. He asked her the same question. She didnt respond. He huffed. My names Evan, he said. Whats yours? She looked up at the ceiling and stated, Luna Nguyen, E-0451. Designation designation She wiped her face with her hands. Whats wrong? She looked at a speaker in the corner of her room, where Evans voice came from. Just kill us already. Im not going to kill you. No? Someone else then? Torturing me wont help you. Im dead either way. Evan wanted to promise her that she was safe, that the rebels would never kill a prisoner, that they would keep her safe except Vihn had proven that would be a lie. He ground his teeth, hoping to chisel into his head some way of getting her to talk. I just want to know where my friend is, Im not going to torture you, he said. She slid her face behind her arms again. Evan continued. Look, he was taken about a week ago from Nero Caine Academy. All I care about is finding and rescuing him. Luna popped her head up. Your friend was taken from the Academy? You said your names Evan The tale has been illicitly lifted; should you spot it on Amazon, report the violation. Crap. The GK Howd she piece that together? She said, That must be it, huh? Some of us didnt buy into the vids. I thought those who said youd ran off with the Blood Red Army were just buying into a conspiracy. This is their base, isnt it? Do you know how many people died trying to find this place? Oh my God. There was no way they could let her go now, knowing all of this. But what did that mean? Evan freaking saved her just for her to die anyway? Luna stood, Fine. Ill tell you everything. Huh? I kind of recognize your voice from last night... You saved me Woah, it makes sense now. What makes sense? She walked up to the door and pressed her ear against it. Was she listening for Evan? He held his breath. Not sure why it mattered if she knew where he was standing it, but her deductive ability freaked him out. Back home, she said, they show us videos of you every week. Youre always talking about being in the North, but youre actually here. Youre quick to believe that Im the GK. It was dark too. I could just happen to be named Evan. She asked, What was your friends name? Would it be safe to tell her? What was she trying to figure out? This is my chance to figure out where he is Ken, he said. Lunas eyes widened. Let me out of here. Why would I do that? She said, Because, Ill help you save your friend. Kenneth Doleson, right? A shock ran up Evans arms. He knew it could easily be a trick, but he pressed on, giving into hope more than his caution. Tell me where he is, and Ill try to get you out of there, he said. She shook her head. No. You dont understand. I want out. That other woman I came with? She Shes a killer. She mutilates the people we capture. Not me, I wont do it not anymore. He wanted to believe her. She was promising everything he wanted, but it couldnt be this easy. How do I know youre not just telling me what I want to hear? How do I know you wont kill me as soon as I tell you the truth? Evan wished he could say that hed never kill someone but that wasnt true. Still, he had saved her. I could have let you die when those wolves moved in on you. But I didnt. I refused. She scowled. So, I could be interrogated? Doesnt make you any less of a killer. You work with terrorists, every person they kill, you kill. Just like how your partner being a killer makes you one too? Evan said. The soldier appeared nonplussed. Look, Evan continued, Im no rebel. I hate the killing, from any of our sides. They offered me a gun and I refused to take it. All I want is to save my friend, then Im leaving these people and going home. If you help me, I will help you. Luna looked between two spots in front of her, as if seeing her options before her. Your voice could be fake, I could be mind-controlled, drugged, anything. How do I know I can trust you? I guess you cant. She sat on the edge of her bed, shaking her head. I cant betray everyone I know for a kid I dont know. You let me out first, then Ill tell you what you want to know. Evan watched as the light faded away. So many ideas flooded his brain. He could try and convince Cranston to talk to her, or Andrea to use her empathic abilities, or Vihn to torture her. But this was his chance to decide for himself, to stop passing his burdens to others. Each of those three might have their own plan for how to deal with these soldiers, and there was no telling if their decisions would help Evan in the end. Would Cranston sympathize with them, and maybe turn back to his Federation allegiance? Would Andrea seek to hide any information she discovered as some carrot to dangle in front of Evan so that hed do what she wanted him to do? Would Vihn turn blind for vengeance, seeking to revel in the suffering of the Feds without ever finding out the truth? Daniel had warned him that the rebels all had their own agendas, and now he could see those consequences before him. There was only one person who cared about saving Ken, and it was Evan. This is stupid, the dumbest thing you could do. But why stop doing dumb things now, right? He placed his hand on the wall to Lunas cell. It crumbled like sand, a storm of electricity crackling within it. The enforcer backed away as the wall was reduced to rubble before her. Evans head ached. He steadied himself against a sliver of concrete that was left. No going back now. Come on, he said. What are you doing? Im going to get you out of here, and then youre going to lead me to my friend. She eyed him suspiciously. Then she nodded. Good. Come on! Evan hopped into a run as she chased after him. Cranston had warned him about the cameras, so they didnt have much time. Evan and Luna sprinted past Kiras cell, who was banging on her door and shouting something unintelligible. They ran out onto the mid-terrace. The city moved with the wave of thousands of bodies recovering from the recent battle. The lifts to the outside hadnt stopped moving since the attack, carrying supplies and bodies. We need to get up there. Evan led Luna toward a ramp that descended to the bottom terrace. Evan! He looked back to see Vihn and Cranston leaning over the rails of the third terrace above. They turned away in a flurry of speed. Stop! Two rebel guards came up the ramp ahead of them, their guns raised. Evan threw his hands out, melting the concrete under their feet. They slipped over the wet sludge of gray that had suddenly appeared there and tumbled into each other. Stars whirled around Evans vision, his tongue went dry, and it felt as though his very soul was being whooshed away. Luna caught him before he could fall, snapping him from the trance. They sidestepped the prone guards and continued down the ramp into the marketplace. It was easy to slip into the crowd there. Luna grabbed a sheet from a clothing wire and covered her head and body with it. Evan did the same. They weaved through the crowd around the marketplaces curved layout. They slammed into a duo who were carrying a stretcher, spilling the man lying in it to the ground. Evan turned to help but Luna grabbed his arms and pulled him away, leaving the three cursing them. Rounding the edge of the river, Evan saw the lift straight ahead as it lowered. A handful of rebels waited at the bottom, guns in their hands. Stop, Evan said as he slowed to a walk. Luna followed his lead. How do we get past them? Lets just ask? She blew a deep breath. Evan approached the group as casually as he could, though the more he tried, the more he was certain he looked as stiff a toy soldier. One of the guards watched Evan as he approached, it was the guard that had recognized him the last time hed taken the lift. Can we help you? The guard asked. Evan stuttered. No, uh Were just going to help topside. The rebel narrowed his eyes. He made a slight nod to the other guards, who circled in response. Youre under arrest, the guy said. The lift doors popped open to a platform filled with crates. Evan launched into the rebel, shoving him against a crate in the lift. Luna leapt in behind them. The guards brick of a fist cracked against Evans face. Evan stumbled into a grated wall, noting that the fist was covered in solid ice. Luna kicked the brute in his gut. His face only got redder. He threw a jab at her, the ice forming into a rigged spike, but she ducked beneath the swing and the iced weapon exploded against a panel, which started the lifts ascension. Evan grabbed a lose pipe from one of the crates and swung as hard as he could into the rebels back. He roared, grabbing at the struck surface. Luna sent another kick into his side, sending him out of the lift down to the loading platform that was now a few feet below. His face smacked against the corner of a metal container, spurting ice and blood across the ground. 19: "Redemption" Get up. Please get up. Just as they had almost ascended too high, Evan could make out the mans sluggish attempts to stand. Luna reached down for the gun that ice man had dropped. What are you doing? Evan steadied himself, expecting her to turn on him. If those rebels are going to try and kill us, well need the protection. No. I saved you, were doing this my way. No guns, no killing. She glared at him but relented. Fine. Evan sat himself stiffly on a crate. He couldnt believe theyd made it this far. So far, in fact, he feared what the rebels would do to him if he was caught. A bright whirl of light appeared before Evan. Luna kicked at the person that had appeared in the lift, but Blink grabbed the flying leg and swept the other out from underneath the enforcer, sending her hard against the lifts floor. Blinks face sunk, full of confusion and pain. What are you doing, Evan? The expression in her voice and face wrecked Evan. Where would he start to explain? Luna kicked back at Blink, who teleported just above the enforcer and landed on her stomach. Luna rolled over and moaned. Blink ran her hands through her hair One normal, and one shriveled and corroded. Her nose trickled with some blood that she wiped away. We took you in. You were family. We would have died for you. She jabbed a finger at Evan. I I cant trust them. You cant trust me? He didnt know what to say to that. She had shown him a safety he hadnt felt since getting his powers, and now hed betrayed her. She squared her jaw, no smile to be found this time. Youre just another Federation pawn. Im taking you both back. Wait, Blink, listen to me! She looked at him expectedly. She could undo everything in a moment by teleporting with her powers. Evan needed her on his side if he was to succeed, but he knew that he treaded on dangerous ground. What would you do if it was your brother whod been taken? Evan asked. Her face contorted. Andrea promised shed help you save Ken. Id have trusted her. Were not against you. How do I know that? A surge of raw emotion rose in Evans voice, despite his best efforts to keep from yelling. Everyone has an agenda. Vihn wants to use me to get to my father, Andrea does also for that matter. Im just a means, some tool to fix a problem they cant deal with on their own. Yeah, maybe they will help me save Ken C or theyll say they tried. Oh well, now help us kill your dad! Evan- Dont tell me He searched for the words. Please help me convince her, help me save Ken. Dont tell me its not true. Ive seen Vihn, and Nyla and their rage. Blink, Ive seen it in you. She winced at that, and Evan knew hed hurt her. His statement wasnt entirely true either C shed refused to take a gun on his behalf, hadnt she? He ran his fingers through his hair. There couldnt be much time left before the lift made it to the top, he had to reason with her somehow. Im sorry, he said, youre not like that. She furled her brow but didnt speak. Evan wished desperately to be able to read minds. He continued. Vihn talked about torturing and killing the enforcers. Thats not who I want to be. I dont want to win like how they win. I dont want to be like the Federation, I dont want to be a monster anymore. I dont want to keep proving them right about us. You might be reading a stolen copy. Visit Royal Road for the authentic version. The lift stopped and light from a curious moon bled into the tunnel ahead. Time was up. Evan made one final attempt to convince Blink to let him go. I need her alive. I need her to tell me where Ken is. I need to save someone, Im tired of getting the people I love killed. Tears bit at his eyes, but he held them back. He needed his focus in case she hadnt been convinced. If she turned against him, how would he evade her and get Luna up? How would he make it out of the tunnel without hurting Blink? He could melt the floor underneath her and shed teleport to safety, giving him the moment to grab the enforcer and run. But for how far? Blinks eyes softened. She approached Evan. I understand. Ill help you, Evan. He leaned back, unsure if this was a trick to get close to him. Again, at any moment, she could snatch his arm and whisk him into a prison cell. You will? he asked. Yeah. She smiled, but Evan focused on her eyes. They had a focus to them he hadnt noticed before but, it was not a deceptive gaze, but one of pain. Shed trusted him, and hed broken that. Perhaps he should have talked to her first before trying his stupid plan. It didnt matter. This is where they were now, and the only choice was to move forward before it was too late. Luna stirred. Blink said. If theres anyone who knows loss, its me. We wont let anyone hurt Luna, and were going to save Ken. Luna pulled herself up while cradling her stomach. Great. Evan believed Blink, if anything, out of hope. The lift shook. The three of them stepped off it before it descended back down. The tunnel rumbled as dust billowed inside. Its too late, Evan realized. Alright kid, nowhere else to run. Come on out, Vihn said over a speaker. Ill get us out of here. Blink grabbed Evan and Lunas shoulders. No, you dont have to, Luna said, I believe you Evan. When I joined the enforcers, I thought Id be protecting people. But all Ive done is rip families apart and help kill people who are just trying to survive. You didnt choose your powers, and neither did your friend. Ken is being held in a Monolith Industries facility somewhere between here and Dogma Isle. Blink studied her. Somewhere? You dont know where? The enforcer shook her head. The only people who do are pilots and higher ups, from what I know. They drug us before we drive to their airfield, and we wake up in the facilitys barracks. No ones allowed to make contact outside or into the base. Evan asked, Then how do we get there? Theres a broadcastC Fine, were coming down to you then, Vihn snapped. Luna sputtered. Promise they wont kill me. I wont let them, Evan said. Every Friday, they send out a broadcast or something. If you can find out where it comes from, that might help you find a way into the facility. Your friend is there. Ive seen him, Evan. They have him and thousands of other Afflicted locked up there. Shadows danced across the tunnel. To do what? Evan asked. I dont know. Experiments, tests, fun C they dont tell us. But theres Afflicted whove been there since the Unification. Youll find him; if hes alive. Vihn, Nyla, and Cranston marched down the hallway. Vihns eyes glowed and vine tendrils raced from outside, past his feet, straight toward Evan and his accomplices. Blink and Evan stepped in front of Luna. Nyla swore. What are you doing, Blink? Cranston asked, shotgun in hand. Blink stifled a shaky breath. Shes helping us. She wants out. Step aside, Vihn ordered. Evan didnt budge, though he wasnt confident that hed beat Nyla and Vihn. But what good were his powers if he didnt use them to protect others? The six of them faced-off against each other. Vihn said, Kid, you havent noticed how Blink isnt porting you away? Remember her hand? She moved to conceal it. Shes pushed herself too far already. All of us have. Youre going to get the people who care about you killed. Like you? Evan retorted. Yes. Shut up. You dont care about me. Youre a sociopath with a vendetta against the Federation. You want to use me against my father, thats it. Vihn shook his head. The world isnt good versus evil. Its evil versus evil. One day youll see that. Step aside, kid. No. Evan dug his heels down and focused on Vihns plants. A pointed voice cut the air. Stop. The six of them turned to the voice that had come from the end of the tunnel. Andrea stood there; her white eye illuminated by the moonlight. Evan is right, he hasnt had any reason to trust us. We shouldnt expect him to. I can feel the truth here. The enforcer knows how to help Evan. Lets uphold our end of the deal. Evan shouted, Im not going to help you against my dad. Hes not some supervillain. Hes done everything he can to help me. So, youre wrong if you think Im going to follow through with my end of the deal. Andrea walked in between the two groups. Maybe youre right. Its not for me to force you into working with us. But its in all our interests to find this facility. If we can find your friend and deal this blow to the Federation, then you would have done enough to help us, and wed be even. How had she heard about their conversation with Luna? Maybe Blink had been wearing her commlink. Evan lowered his guard. Deal, only if Luna is left alone. Stupid, Vihn said. Andrea glared at him, and he simply took out his flask and drank. Deal, she said, if she tells us everything she knows. Luna nodded. I will. Nyla groaned and stomped outside. A few explosions rocked the cave. Had she been looking forward to using her powers against them? Evan hoped hed never find out what it was like to be on the receiving end of her Affliction. Regardless, a weight fell from Evans shoulders, because he believed that he had finally saved someone. 20: "With Great Power..." Jeck stared at Evan with twitching eyes, still laying calmly on his bed. Evan tried to break free again, and he could feel his powers, their heat. But nothing C not the metal cell or the man - showed any signs of being affected. Let him go, Jeck. Vihn had an arm out with writhing plants around it. Do you still remember my old nickname? Vihns voice tightened. Are you crazy? No you dont, do you? Ill let him go if he can guess. One lunatic after another. Go on, guess. Vihn sent his vines after Jeck, but they crunched and diverted up into the air, as if colliding with a wall. Evan hacked, his chest squeezing against the metal bars. I dont know it! Guess! Mind man? I dont know. Gah! Jecks eyes flickered shut. Terrible guess. He muttered, before falling back to sleep. The force that held Evan disappeared. He dropped to the ground, breath returning to him. Freaking idiot, Vihn said as he helped Evan stand. Why? Just, what was that? Evan said befuddled. Vihn threw his hands up, no words to be found. He climbed the ladder. Just, watch him, Evan. Yell if he wakes up, the freaking idiot. Evan massaged his chest. Hed rather be as far away from this guy as he could be. He grabbed the ladder, but before he could make his wait up, Jeck called out, Wait. Vih-! Dont yell, he said. He was sitting up now. He took his head in his hands and cracked it to both sides. Im sorry if I hurt or scared you. I was testing something. Evan kept his hand tightly against the ladder in case this guy tried to pull him again. What do you want? I heard, Jeck stood, now cracking his hands, legs, arms, any part of him as he twisted his body, while his wrinkled muscles contorted, that you had the gift. The gift? Jeck walked out of the cell, the door moving without him touching it. Thats right. Molecular Dispersion. Break apart molecules. Cut their bonds, set them free. As if there werent already enough obsessive, crazy people Evan had to deal with, here was another one. Evan stepped up on the ladder, which would hopefully allow him a head start if this guy did anything else crazy. Jeck said, I never had a nickname. It was a trick question. But I thought maybe Vihn would know that. He almost killed me once. Well, nearly got me killed. Though, his plants did save me from a severe head wound curtesy of the same beast that chases you now. Joseph Krow? Yes. He nearly destroyed us all. Years ago. There were three of us who escaped well, I was dead you see, but Vihn brought me back. You know, pardon for the exposition, but hell never tell you what his real power is. Real power? Yes. Jeck placed a hand on the ladder and leaned closer. His breath smelled of roots and earth. He has a gift for getting people killed. Before me and mine, it was his own family. Dont believe me? Ask him about his sister sometime. Anyway, he let go of the ladder and unwrapped some sort of protein bar that hed pulled from his pocket and took a bite out of it, we have a lot, mmm, hopes for you, Evan. You penetrated purifier armor. Theres a reason why theyre raiding towns now, you see. They want to find you before you do something permanent. But destiny still has a way of making things happen, no matter how much we try to stop them from happening. Evan found himself following the man closer, no longer on the ladder, hanging on to Jecks words instead. How do you know all of that? Jeck reentered his cell and sat cross-legged on the cot. Its my job to stay informed. Thats why The Ark has sent you to me. I just wanted to tell you the truth that few people in the Blood Red Army would offer. Whats that? That the people you try to save will die no matter what you do. Theres no use running from it. Instead, cut the cord, let nature take its course. Save those whod sacrifice themselves, stop them from adding to the death count. The few for the many. The idea was forced into Evans hands, but he couldnt accept it as truth. He gave it back. Im never going to give up trying to help people who need me. The bald man sighed and lay on his bed, facing the ceiling, with his hands laced underneath his head. Well see. Blink flashed into the next cell with a handbound Luna. Blink slipped her corroded hand out of her pocket and locked the cell behind her as she left it. Luna sat on the cells bed. Heya, Blink said to Evan. Hi, he said back. Didnt you catch that? Evan was confused. Blink pointed to her ear. Vihn called us on the comm. You gotta turn it on. Right. He fiddled with the penny-sized devices in his ear. -ello? buzzed Vihns voice. You ignoring me, kid? Uh, no, sorry. Evan pressed his ear, but Blink giggled and gently lowered his hand. Ah. Finally. Hey, you and Blink come up top. Jeck yawned. Go ahead, Ill be here. Evan hoped not. He and Blink made their way up the ladder to the main room. The smells of the lab had choked the group long enough, so Nan brought the group out to the patio to sit around a faded green table. Steam trailed up from the spout of a brass kettle that she poured tea from into a set of matching cups. Luis and I were wondering when youd visit again. We were beginning to worry. The author''s narrative has been misappropriated; report any instances of this story on Amazon. I wanted to come sooner. Vihn nodded politely as he took up his cup. Blink and Twitch followed. Evan gingerly took the tea as well. Nan sighed. The broadcast has been flooded with footage of our friends being slaughtered. Its Its very upsetting. Reminds me of the purge. Evan couldnt help but feel responsible. The purifiers were cracking down because of him, because of his father. He tried to block out what Jeck had told him about these things happening beyond his control, though he wondered if parts of that might be true. It seemed that this sort of genocide had been happening long before he had ever gotten involved. But now that he was involved, he wondered how he might stop it. The evening continued with Nan and Vihns conversation about the aggressive tactics the Federation was using. The raids were costing the Federation a great deal too, Vihn reassured Nan. The violence will only drive more people to desperation. They wont stand it for long. Thats what scares me. Nan frowned and sipped the last of the tea. Id be careful with your allies, not everyone is as sympathetic to your kind like they used to be. Some people are saying this is it. Theres not many Afflicted left who arent either with us, dead, or in the Federations hands. It was a grim thought, and one that prevailed the rest of the evening. ***** The team returned to Ad Astra as night fell. Evan drank in the deep purple sky as the ramp closed them into the warmly lit interior of the ship. There were five bedrooms, and eight people. Cranston went to one, Daniel and Nyla to another, Rowic to a third, and Vihn to the cockpit. Blink and Twitch went to the same room, and Evan went to the last. He closed the door behind him. It was the same place he had woken up in after Hazard Station. It felt like that had been another life. The last few weeks with the rebels melded together for him, like living with them was becoming his new norm, death and war included. Evan shifted under the itchy covers of his bed, and had finally found a comfortable position, when Vihn knocked on the door and said, Jeck found the base. We know where your friend is. ***** Anxiety teetered on Evans shoulders as he anticipated what Jeck had to say. The entire Phoenix One team, Luna, and Jeck gathered in Ad Astra. They all faced a wall of the ship where Jeck directed a projection by swiping a hand over his wrist computer. A familiar face scrolled across the wall; Charlie Crain, the guy who had taken over Monolith Industries from the Governor. You may have seen this guy on the news lately, Jeck said. Another face projected above the wall. It was a face Evan knew well; one hed see every time he looked in a mirror. This hologram version of Evan said, The reason I didnt tell anyone I was heading to the North after graduation was because I wanted to go about it as an adult. Theres a lot to learn in the other Federation sectors, and I mean to stay longer to learn more about them. Vihn asked, is this CGI or a deep fake? Weve seen this sort of video before, but Evans been with us since Hazard Station. Sort of. Jeck pinched the screen on his wrist, zooming into the holograms features. Its his real face, but theyve done some mapping to make him say whatever they want. The voice Ive run a lot of tests and its a perfect match. It was incredibly infuriating every time he saw this perfect recreation of himself. He remembered what Luna had told him, how the people of the Federation were convinced these were real videos. The hologram continued, The terrorist attacks by Afflicted at Hazard Station were horrible. I hope the purifiers are able to capture them soon. Daniel cringed. Sounds like him, but the writings terrible. How could it be an exact match? Cranston asked. Theyve been able to reconstruct voices before, but you guys have always been able to pick through it. My exact voice. There had always been one person that Evan knew could copy any noise or voice perfectly. Is it possible to track where the video originated from? He asked. Jeck said in his oddly cadenced voice, Already done. With the information from the enforcer, he nodded to Luna, whos arms were folded, and what we already had - Ive pinned the location of a Monolith facility in another mountain range up North. Thats where Ken was, it had to be. Evan surged, knowing that the opportunity to save his friend had finally come. Theres more, Jeck said. He waved his hand, and three new projections appeared, each one with their own insidious implications. The first video was of President Caine. Children, fellow citizens of this great Federation. Rejoice! For the age of peace is finally at hand. We will destroy the terrorists and make them hurt for all the pain that they have caused us. They will have nowhere to hide. Remember this, we are many, and they are few. The next video was of the Governor. He said, We know where they are. Weve begun the process of routing them out. They will not last long. It was obviously a fake video, or so Evan wished, but either way he felt something boiling in him as he looked at his father. The last video was of Andrea. Ive come to kill the Federation. Ive already succeeded in bleeding one town. Theres no place for you to hide, sheep of Caine. I will sacrifice you to God, and lead my kind to destiny, for I am the Ark. If you close your doors, we will open them and slit your throats ourselves. As the hologram said open, a table at the center of Ad Astra popped open and slid to the side, revealing a hidden door underneath it. Vihn frowned. Thats a voice activated security system that only Andrea and I can open. Daniel shivered. Nyla scoffed. Dont tell me that crap scares you. No! Its just, bad. Like, who wrote these lines, man? Daniel said. Cranston rubbed his temples. Youre missing the point. Huh? Its just a bunch of crappy CGI recreations. Whats it going to change? The problem, Vihn sighed, is what it means for the future. Theyve been able to fake stuff before, but this its real. It wouldnt take long for them to fabricate videos of any of us, fool our people into traps, or get into places theyre not supposed to. Rowic shrugged. Im sure we can crack whatever system it is, Im not worried. Except what if it wasnt some program? Evan pulled the pieces together. What if its not a computer doing this, what if its my friend? The others looked at him as if hed suggested something much cruder. What do you mean? Vihn asked. Evan told them about Kens powers. The team contemplated the information, until Vihn spoke up. Jeck, gather the people you can spare, were going to this place. Several of the group exclaimed and cursed at the suggestion. Cranston spoke low. Last time we tried something like this I remember, Vihn said. Weve all lost someone fighting the Federation. Were going to lose more if we dont act. This is our only chance to hit them. If anything, we might find something at that facility that we can use against the Federation. He looked around the room, but no one met his eyes. Jeck gave Evan a glance, reminding him what Jeck had said about Vihn getting so many people killed. It was Evans chance to save his friend, but what might it cost? What would it cost if he ignored this opportunity? He stepped forward, meeting Vihns hopeful eyes. Lets do it. No one moved to join them. Come on, Evan goaded them. Arent you rebels? You saw what the army is doing. Theyre not holding back anymore, this is the end of the Afflicted, the end of us, if we dont do something. He felt a voice in his throat that was unlike his own, someone more heroic, someone hed look up to. He let the voice take over. You say that Vihn is no leader. You say Im just a kid, that Luna is a Fed. You laugh at Daniel for his mistakes, call Cranston a traitor and Nyla hot-headed You dont believe in each other; you dont believe in yourselves. Let the Feds come now and kill us, and kill our friends at Alpha, and Nan, and Luis. Thats what I hear you say - that youve given up, that youre no good, that theres no point. But there is purpose. Theres a reason why were alive, and others are dead. Screw it. If there isnt a purpose to all this weve gone through, then well make one. The dead cant fight anymore, and now its our turn. You dont like the world we live in? Change it. We have the power to change this freaking world. We can fight back. We can beat the Federation. We cant give up, not now, because theres thousands of dead people before you who didnt get the choice to stand by and do nothing. Evans skin buzzed, and his mind opened like millions of atoms had exploded from it. He realized three things now. The first was that he had a grasp on his emotions without his powers running away from his control (which was a miracle of its own). Second, everyone was staring at him, not with fear, not disgust, or even pity C but with conviction. The third thing he noticed was how there was a new freedom in his chest. Blink stepped forward. Im with you, Evan. Twitch came next, nodding to Evan. Then stepped forward Daniel, and Nyla. Surprisingly, even Jeck and Luna nodded in acceptance of what Evan had said. Rowic and Cranston looked to Vihn. He seemed to be dissecting what was happening. Was he angry that his crew were acknowledging Evan over him? Willing to follow someone other than him? Was he jealous? Perhaps not, because he walked to Evan, placed a hand on his shoulder and said, Lets do this, kid. 21: "Air Assault" Monster, Enemy, Friend, Fire, Death, Murder, War, Guns, Blood, Sweat, Powers, Love, Hate, Friend, Brother, Rebel, Soldier, Enforcer, Friend, Mother, Father, Sister, Brother, Stranger, Ark, Friend, Normal, Traitor, Coward, Idiot, Savior, Destroyer, Corrosion, Shrapnel, Ace, Blink, Twitch, Friend, Save, Save, Save, Save, Save Save my brother. Evan drained his anxieties with an exhale. Evan cycled through the plan over and over in his head. Any number of things could go wrong, but he refused to let it be because of him. He thought of the other members of Phoenix One and their allies. Rowic and Daniel would stay on Ad Astra to provide support and a quick getaway. The rest of the members would split into two groups: the forward team with Cranston, Luna, Jeck, and Nyla, and the infiltration team with Vihn, Blink, Twitch, and Evan. Cranston and Luna would draw the focus of any guards to them since they had accurate Federation identification. Jeck and Nyla would go with them since their faces were less know than some of the others. Vihn, Blink, Twitch, and Evan would sneak behind them and find a way into the base without being detected. Rowic and Daniel in Ad Astra. Cranston, Luna, Jeck, and Nyla in the forward team. Vihn, Blink, Twitch, and Evan in the infiltration team. There were too many people to keep track of. Too many people who could get hurt. While they waited, the twins played a game against each other. One would put out his or her hands both as fists, and the other would guess which one was holding a bullet. Blink guessed wrong every time, and Twitch guessed right every time. Blink cursed as she lost again, and Twitch celebrated to an imaginary audience. Around the center projection table was Cranston, Vihn, and Jeck poring over a schematic, while Luna would either redirect their attention to conflicting information or clarify any questions they presented. Nyla sat by herself at the other end of the room. Her feet jittered and sweat beaded on her brow. She snapped occasionally, creating tiny pops in the air. Could you stop? Vihn begged her. She blew him a spiteful kiss and snapped with all her fingers in a single expression. POP! Rowics voice came over the ships intercom. This is your pilot speaking, and Id like to request for anyone not wanting to be detected by a Fed scan, to please refrain from creating any more energy signatures than we already are. Thank you, no names named, you know who you are. Nyla bit back whatever comment she was about to make in response, perhaps realizing they were right. Evan whispered to Blink, Maybe she shouldnt have come on the mission. If her powers need to be constantly released and all. Wont she give us away since were trying to be stealthy? Blink answered. Nylas powers take a couple of days to really build up past her control. Besides, if things go bad, a little more firepower couldnt hurt. I think shes just anxious. Evan supposed he wouldnt be the only one nervous about the mission. Blink gave Evan a soft, reassuring look. You still have my music on you? she asked. Perhaps anxiety lurked in all their minds. He handed her an ear pod from his pack. She took it in a gloved hand, the hand that had been burned by her powers. Evan averted his eyes, trying not to show her he was conscious of it. Another notch in his streak of getting people he cared about hurt. Another person to avenge. ***** Evan, Blink said his name in that way that lets on to darker news. He realized he had fallen asleep. He was thankful hed found some rest when he had, because what Blink told him stoked his nerves again. Were not flying to an airfield to hijack a Fed airship, theres not enough time, and too many risks; were going to do it in the air. He realized the only way that would be possible. Youre going to try and jump into the enemys ship midair? She nodded. Thats insane. She feigned a gasp. What? You dont believe in me? He felt his cheeks heat up. She smiled. Wanna tag along? Woosh. First you want to jump out of one plane into another one, and now you want to get me killed too? Yes, sir. He didnt know what suicidal instinct drove him to say, Count me in, but there he had said it. Now, he might regret it. The forward team donned enforcer helmets C they had already changed into the rest of their enforcer armor. Evans infiltration team had slipped on black jumpsuits and buckled their packs securely. His wrist computer strapped smoothly to his left wrist, and the commlink dug snuggly into his right ear. He tried to let the music settle him, and it started to, until he saw another flying craft outside the window, a Federation airship below them. Ad Astra was like a hawk stalking an unsuspecting finch. It was time. He made sure to leave his brown jacket and Blinks music behind, but he felt his heart tug as he tried to stowaway Ken and his IDs. He decided to keep them secured within one of his shirt pouches. The IDs were going to see this to the end. Vihn gathered everyone in the center of the ship. Can you hear us, Rowic? Affirmative. Good. Vihn looked at the crew around him. Weve been able to keep our ship undetected thanks to Rowic, but that wont matter once we get close enough for someone to stare out a window. Theres an enforcer ship below us. According to its navigation pattern and broadcasts, theyre headed for the same coordinates Luna says is the Monolith base. Rowics going to fly us close enough to the ship so Blink can board them with a small group. Once the ship is ours, Rowic and Daniel can take Ad Astra somewhere safe while the rest of us fly the Fed ship to the facility. Vihn cleared his throat. Whos your team, Blink? She pointed at Evan and Twitch. You sure? asked Vihn. Blink and Twitch confirmed, but Vihn had been looking at Evan when he asked. Yes, Evan answered. Rowic called over the speaker, Our windows about to be open. Alright, Vihn waved his hands. Luna, do you know how to fly? The soldier cleared her throat. Yes. The basics. Unauthorized usage: this narrative is on Amazon without the author''s consent. Report any sightings. Then youre going with them. Blink looked repulsed. Why her? Luna sucked her teeth. Fun, She remarked. But yeah, why me? Vihn pressed a button than lowered the back ramp of the airship. Everyone in the room grabbed hold of something to steady themselves. Someone has to fly that thing, he said. Thats too many, Evan said, not wanting to see something happen to Blink again. Vihn, Rowic said again, as the gap between Ad Astra and the Fed ship shrunk. Times running out, this is it. If youre too weak to do it, fine, well try something else. Blink squashed her glower with a deep breath. I can do it. Evan stepped between her and the ramp. You dont have to do this. Her eyes stabbed his. I can do it. He faded back. Was he in the wrong? She was far more capable with her powers than he was and had been doing stuff like this before him. He didnt know why he felt the need to protect her. He needed to protect everyone he cared about. He decided to trust her instead. Twitch, and Evan joined hands with Blink, while Luna placed her hand on Blinks shoulder (Blink rolled her shoulders at this), and the four of them approached the end of the ramp. Jumping out of planes without parachutes had become almost normal for Evan. Blink trained her eyes on the Federation airship. Please make this work. Evan prayed. He whispered in Blinks ear. Im sorry. You got this, I believe in you. She smiled, still looking at the closing airship. Thanks, Evan. I believe in me too. She pulled the group back and ran forward C the other three of them stumbling to follow her lead. They leapt off the ramp. Radiance flickered around them. Then they were in the ship C collapsing from the roof to a floor of hard metal. The four of them were prone, and Blink writhed with her hand clutched to her chest, steading herself with deep breathes. Evan pushed his aching body up but stopped halfway when he witnessed a dozen stunned Federation soldiers surrounding him and his companions. Reality froze, a breath of fear sucked in by the collective mouths of rebel and Federation soldiers, the realization of what needed to be done gripping them. The soldiers, in various states of dress, sat around a table that had been set with coffee and bowls of steaming food. They stared at Evan and his friends. Be the first to act. He focused on the few guns he could see C pistol, submachine gun, pistol, shotgun, pistol. Evan swiped the air with his hand. The weapons crumpled in the grips and holsters of those who had them. His head dizzied but he managed control. Evan had hit the fight play button. The soldiers erupted in a frenzy, half of them scattering out of the room, while the other half rushed at the rebels. Were surrounded! Evan yelled, hoping Vihn would help. He shuffled to his feet alongside the others. Two Feds, one wielding a toothbrush, lunged for Evan. He could throw out his hands, he could stop them before they ever touched him, but thatd kill them. Bang! Bang! The two dropped to the ground. They squirmed but werent dead. Evan spun around to see that Twitch had drawn two pistols. Had he spared them intentionally? The rest of the Feds were on them now. Twitch let off another couple of shots, taking one more down before being grappled by another. Several of the soldiers knocked Blink and Luna to the floor. A wounded soldier by Evan had a baton strapped to his thigh. Evan unsheathed it and swung wildly at the Feds. The metal shaft cracked against a head, sending that soldier stumbling back. Crack! Another collapsed. Twitch kneed the man in front of him. The enforcer doubled over. Twitch whipped him with his pistols, dropping the enforcer to the floor. The twin flashed Evan a thumbs-up. Evan nodded and returned the gesture. He hadnt anticipated any of the others to adopt his non-lethal approach, though the potential ramifications of leaving enemies alive wasnt lost on Evan. Still, he appreciated the support. The final two soldiers that were holding Luna threw her to the ground and charged at Evan with raised batons. Evan reached out his hands to disable the weapons with his powers, but the soldiers were too fast. The metal rods stung his arm, sending a ripple of pain up his shoulder. Another connected with his stomach. Evan stumbled back against a wall. A soldier came at him again. Evan grabbed his wrist mid-swing and diverted the momentum into the wall behind him, pinning his baton. Crack! Another baton bit the back of Evans thigh, buckling him. He focused on the baton hed pinned. Cold, black metal, sleek, reinforced. Crack! Evan grabbed the back of his head, stars rippling through his vision. He lost his grip and both enemies wailed on him from either side. He curled into himself and covered his head from the blows. Crack, crack, crack! Help! Evan cried out. Enforcers armed with guns rushed into the room. Crap. Evan thought. He rolled into the man on his right and toppled him the ground. The ship shuddered with a great impact. The other soldiers tried to maintain their footing, pulling down Blink, Twitch, and Luna in their grasps. Evan and the man he had tackled exchanged a baffled look. A rupture of fire and metal shook the ship as a door sized chunk of the hull blew open in a frenzy of howling wind that sucked Evan and the soldier toward it. The ship rocked, creating a moment long enough for Evan to slide himself out of the gaping hole. The soldier flailed his arms as his body continued toward the exit. Evan reached out but missed. The man flung into the cloudy sky. Ad Astra glided alongside the breached wall. You guys alright? Rowic asked over the comm. Doing great, Evan said. The soldiers regained their balance and readied to shoot the Evans team, who lay bashed and bloodied. Evan thrust out his hands, erasing the guns the enforcers held from existence. They pressed their fingers against the air before fully acknowledging that their weapons had turned to dust. Everything spun in Evans vision as that abyss of his drawback tugged at him. An enforcer thwacked Evan with a baton, sobering him up. Evan deflected a second strike and forced the arm against the ships hull. The baton bent inwards and wrapped around the soldiers hand like a slap bracelet, through Evans will. Evan kicked him in the groin, then forced the hand into the wall again, this time infusing the crooked baton with the metal of the ship. The man pulled back, but his hand was now trapped by a makeshift cuff. Evan crawled deeper into the ship as the rest of the enforcers charged after him. Great vine tendrils ripped through the compromised hull and wrapped around the soldiers like the tentacles of a giant squid. Dread filled their eyes just before they were all yanked out of the ship into the open sky. Evan steadied himself to see Vihn standing in the side doorway of Ad Astra, tethered to his ship by vines. His eyes shimmered that murky white. You guys done in there? Vihn asked. The rest of the group made careful progress over to where Evan was. Almost, he replied. Vihns smirk was dashed as machine gunfire battered his ship. He dropped back inside and closed the door. Ad Astra peeled away, pursued by two slimmer Federation jets. Vihn cursed. Well try to shake these. Get to the controls. A voice spoke from the ships sound system. Setting to autopilot. Two more Feds rushed down the hallway, wearing sleeker pilots gear and holding handguns. Evan braced himself. Gunfire crackled, crumpling the two Feds, curtesy of Twitchs own guns smoking. These, however, lay dead. Evans heart rocked. It seemed hed been too optimistic about a successful non-lethal operation. Luna ran her hands through her hair, looking out through the hole in the ships hull. Your group just killed everyone. Im sorry, Blink started. Lunas eyes were red. I didnt join your side so I could help kill soldiers. I just wanted to put an end to this all. I dont know what I was thinking. You didnt kill them, Evan said. Vihn did. He didnt mention Twitch, even though hed also killed. Bias? Perhaps. Should morality ignore bias? He didnt want to say. Luna stepped back from them. Whats the difference? Its because of me that were here anyway. No one would have died if I hadnt helped you. Blink said, Theres nothing we can do for them. Its the Federation that put them here. Their regime is what drives us to fight each other. Twitch holstered his pistols sheepishly. Sometimes you cant help it. Sometimes its us, or them. She offered Luna a hand, but the enforcer looked past it. Murderers, someone else said. The group turned to the soldier Evan had trapped to the wall. The man, thick jawed with a carefully trimmed head of hair, seethed. Youre monsters, especially you, traitor. He spit at Luna, some of it flickering outside with the winds. Luna hung her head. Blink and Twitch looked to each other and continued down the hall. Evan stood there uncertain. How was he supposed to fight these battles? He knew how Luna must be feeling, or at least had a sense. His whole life he had to deal with the fact that his powers were dangerous, and now he had the chance to prove his enemies wrong, yet people still died all the same. This mission was falling apart, and they needed Luna to be on their side if they were going to get into the facility and rescue Ken. So, Evan made a vow, a foolish promise. Well do the mission on our own. No more Fed deaths, he said hoarsely. The twins doubled back, and Luna gave Evan a scowl. I mean it, he said. We dont need the rest of the group to get to the base. We can pose as the pilots of this ship and pretend we were the only survivors of the attack. Well land at the base and get in wearing enforcer armor as disguises. There was a glint of hope in Lunas eyes, before she said, Thats the problem. Theres still that guy. How are we going to pretend were the soul survivors if hes around? Blink said, I can take care of that. Ill teleport them somewhere that we can leave him tied up. Then, we can scout through the facility unnoticed. Twitch signed hesitantly to her, and she replied with a calming gesture. I can recover fast enough. Its just the one guy. The plan had to work, it had to convince Luna to help. Evan straightened himself out. No more killing. Were going to do this our way, and the only way to stop this genocide is if we work together. She nodded. Lets try it. 22: "Sea of Enemies" Its an idiot plan, Evan. Federation flight, F-2124 - Weve deterred the attackers. I hope you know what you kids are doing. F-2124, what is your status? Rowics transferring his A.I. Im glad some of you made it alive. Dont get killed. We will provide additional escort to the facility. Thanks Evan clicked off the channel. The two jets hovered at the flanks of their hijacked ship. Fortunately, the navigation instructions were imported into the ships controls by autopilot, so Luna only had to utilize her knowledge of Federation procedures to guide them through security. A captured soldier lay gagged and hog-tied at the back of the cockpit, with Blink and Twitch keeping close watch on him. Ad Astra was gone, and there was no way to contact them at this distance without risking interference by the Federation. Rowic had sent a program that might help them disable some security features at the base, he was uncertain as to how effective the A.I. would be, having never interacted with the system there. Evan adjusted his enforcer uniform. He was committed to this action, no going back. To think that only a couple of weeks ago he had been little more than a loner student, and now he was an active enemy of the Federation. To think that only a few weeks ago, hed have passed out if he had so much as disintegrated a door, and here hed managed to utilize his powers for an entire fight with little more than a migraine. To think that hed once been responsible for a few accidental deaths, and now had aided in the deaths of dozens. To think that in a few moments, hed be swimming in a sea of thousands of enemies with only a handful of allies by his side. To think. To think. To think. To hope that at the end of this day, hed be able to embrace Ken once again and walk with his brother into another life, free from war or corruption. To hope that not another drop of blood might be spilled because of him. To dream that freedom was almost in his grasp. To know that if he screwed up, theyd all be dead because of him. He supposed he better not screw up then. The two fighters that followed their ship unsettled Evan every time he looked outside the cockpit, but fortunately the facility was close, according to the navigational display. They came upon a crescent shaped mountain range, cradling a settlement of structures at the base of it. A voice patched into the ships comms. Alright, F-2124, thats it for us, you are free to descend. Luna flicked a switch. Thank you, Guardian-One. The two jets fell back, leaving the transport to lower into the valley on its own. Square windowless buildings scattered throughout mountains, growing larger as they clustered at the bottom of the valley. It was a network of drab concrete structures drumming with the cadence of marching kill teams, hungry machinery, and buzzing drones. This is it, Luna said as she engaged the landing protocols. Where do we go when we land? Evan asked. She tilted her head side to side. Your friend was in the holding cells last I saw him. It shouldnt be hard to get there. I hope your hacker has a good A.I. program, otherwise I dont know how well get Kenneth out of there. Ken, Evan corrected. If not, maybe Blink could just teleport him out. Luna shook her head. Theres a lot of security measures in place. Each cell is lined with lead, followed by an electrical barrier, and then encased in several inches of thick glass and steel. Beyond that, there are alarms that can detect energy spikes in any of the rooms. Theres also a system that tracks the weight distribution per cell. That way the system can detect a multitude of things. How many people are in there, how big they are C how small. Any shifts in that ratio will trigger an alarm and anything in the cell is fried. Thats not to mention the customized defenses each cell is built with. Custom defenses? Yes. She focused on the controls as the ship approached a dockyard. Speedsters get electrified if they speed up, fire starters are sprayed with liquid nitrogen, teleporters are injected with nanites that rip them apart if they leave the room lots of fun stuff. Blink grimaced. Thats brutal. Just disgusting. I know. Luna shrunk into her seat. It made sense why she was willing to betray the Federation. What they did was evil. Though Evan couldnt imagine there were many defenses needed for Kens powers; there was nothing offensive about it. Twitch made some divergent hand signs, and Blink swatted him in response. F-2124, please dock at station five. An inspection and medical team will board immediately to assist you, another voice said over the comms. Crap. Evan looked down to see that over a dozen soldiers and medical personnel were awaiting them below. We have to get rid of the other guy. Call me. Blink grabbed the bound enforcer and flashed away with him moments before the ship landed. Luna chewed on her inner cheek. I hope your buddy Rowic successfully corrupted the ships black box, or it wont take long for the security team to decipher what happened. Evan paced. There wasnt a chance for Blink to get back to them now, theyd have to rendezvous somewhere in the facility. A hand pinched Evans shoulder, it was Twitch who offered a smile and thumbs up. Evan patted his hand and nodded. If the twin was confident in Blink, then he should be too. Luna shut down the aircraft as the Feds approached it. Dont say anything, she said. What do you mean? Evan tightened his enforcer uniform. Theyll catch on to us if they find out Twitch cant talk. Theres no such thing as a mute enforcer. If you dont talk, they might pass it off as both of you are in shock. Ill take the lead on this. Luna covered her head with a helmet that was slightly too big for her. She had swapped out her uniform with another, fearing people at the facility would recognize her normal one, and then shed be detained since shed been missing for a couple of days. Ensure your favorite authors get the support they deserve. Read this novel on the original website. Evan and Twitch put on similar half-visor helmets and followed her lead to a door at the side of the cockpit. Evan held his hand to his stomach and pretended to favor his left side. He didnt want to look too healthy, this way they might better believe that they had survived a brutal attack. He coaxed Twitch into following suit, and the twin gabbed his shoulder and feigned a grimace. Luna pressed a handful of buttons that released the door. The inspection team approached them, while voices came from inside the ship; presumably other enforcers had entered through the gaping hole in the side of the ships hull. Theyd find a couple of dead feds, but not much other evidence for what had happened. If there was a time that Luna would betray the rebels, now would be it. Evan prayed she had truly joined their side. F-2124? the lead inspector asked, a woman in a dark blue officer uniform and wearing a cap instead of a helmet. Two other enforcers flanked her, one with a kit of electronic devices, and the other holding an SMG. There was a drone floating just behind them. Luna saluted, followed timidly by Evan and Twitch. Please submit to identification scanning. The drone hovered past the inspection team toward Evan and his accomplices. He tapped his wrist computer to activate Rowics A.I. A beam of light scanned over Luna first, and flashed green as it stated the information, Tara Jones, F-2124 C Flight Crew. Evan stifled his sigh of relief as the program had successfully tricked the drone to match their identities to their stolen uniforms. After the drone had finished dubbing Evan as Justice Bell, E-1102 C Enforcer Unit, and Twitch as Lu Tess, E-4033 C Enforcer Unit, the inspectors eyes panned over to Evan and Twitch. Casualty report? she asked. Luna waved behind her. This all thats left. The Afflicted hit us by surprise and took everyone out before the air support could arrive. The inspector stepped onboard the ship. Our scans detected more life signatures onboard when you were landing. Evan spoke up, despite Lunas warning, but he couldnt afford to hesitate. They were disintegrated, maam. One of the Afflicted could melt things with his mind. The others who were on the ship turned to ash slowly. They didnt make it during the landing. She eyed him, and he bowed his head submissively. Luna cleared her throat. Right, soldiers stand at attention. Evan corrected himself straight and focused. The inspector clucked her tongue. Animals. What kind of freak does that to a person? She addressed Luna again, You and your men can head to the barracks for debriefing. Luna nodded and started off the ramp. Evan followed close by, adverting his eyes from the soldiers, with Twitch in tow. A string of radio chatter came from the helmet Evan wore, mostly codes and jargon that didnt make sense, so it was just noise to him. He continued on, ignoring the radio as best as he could. Blink? he said, hoping the helmet wouldnt interfere with his earpiece. Heya, howd it go? Her positive tone superseded the tension in the air. Evan sighed. Good. Lunas path twisted around a hub of long buildings that was presumably the barracks, but then she doubled back toward the main structure. Meet us at the back of the central building. Mkay. The building was lined with thin black glass that lit up yellow at differing sections. Train carts and loaders passed in and out of two giant doorways. Sentry turrets and guards protected the entrances and inspected the travel lanes, and a handful of drones scanned those who passed by. However, there was only one obstacle that truly gave Evan pause C a purifier. The hulking mass of plate and gyros would periodically halt a passerby and display a projection of their face with his gauntlet emitters. After a moment of comparing the face and the image, and asking a few questions, hed let them pass on. Whats the issue? Luna asked. Evan whispered, I was told that Rowics program has never been able to hack a purifiers code. If the purifier stops us, hell find out who we are right away and we wont be able to do anything about it. Twitch pointed at his cross necklace. Blink? Evan asked. He nodded. Luna shook her head. Remember, the facility has systems in place that can track unusual energy spikes and sudden changes in population, not to mention theres cameras everywhere. Teleportation isnt an option here. The enforcer comm channel broke through Evans focus. Inspection team at station five, prepare for re-scan of transit eleven. Be notified that there may be an additional life signature aboard transport F-2124. You guys hear that? Evan asked. Luna swore. There might have been someone who survived, and we didnt realize it C stole away in a vent or something. She looked around the yard. Blink, where are you? Sorry I ran into a bit of trouble, but its all patched up now! Trouble? Yeah Uh, lets just say its a good thing I could find enough rope for two more pilots. Lunas eyes might have popped out of her head if they werent attached, though Evan wouldnt have been surprised if her teeth had started to crack under the pressure of her grinding them. We cant wait for Blink to catch up to us, we have to risk the checkpoint before they trigger a lockdown. She made her way toward the processing line. Evan looked back at the docking stations in the distance where more soldiers had gathered around their stolen ship. It seemed it was already too late. When he turned back to see a purifier at the head of the line. Wait! he called to Luna. A few other soldiers looked back at him with her, and he waved at them with a nervous chuckle. She waved a dismissing hand to the other soldiers and hobbled her way back over to him. What? Look. Evan pointed to the purifier, who seemed distracted by something coming from his comms. Sure enough, the brute left his post and headed in the direction of the docking stations. Luna nodded her approval, and the trio continued down the line together. Their fortune continued as they ran into Blink just before entering. What happened? Evan asked. Blink grimaced. The soldier woke up. Luna hushed them and stacked up against a truck. We have a small window, Luna whispered. I doubt I need to explain how bad it is if the guards found a survivor on our ship. We need to ditch these uniforms for new ones before they start searching for us, and were running out of time. Evan considered this. Is there a room where they operate the security cameras? Some place we can upload Rowics code and take over the bases security and cancel any alarms? Theres not one security control center for that exact reason. But we can find one of several that might control the cells where your friend is at least. Lets do it. Evan steeled himself. They walked into a multi-level sector with spaces of plexiglass roofing. Evan saw what was happening three or so levels above him. The facility bustled with soldiers, drones, scientists, other machines, metal reinforced glass cells with people cuffed inside, and purifiers C At least two of them patrolling the sectors. Blink whispered to him. So, if they discover us, how fast do you think they can kill us? He squinted and pretended to calculate. Well in the blink of an eye? She cringed. Nice. This way. Luna diverted them to a lift. There were no buttons, only a slot for a keycard and a scanner. Ah. So thats what I forgot to account for. Blink shrugged. Lets just be friendly. She waved to a group of five white-coated lab workers who were walking in their direction. Heya, well wait for you. Luna looked at her uncertainly. The lab workers waved back and hurried over to them. Thank you for waiting, these things can take forever to return to the first floor, one of them said. Of course, Blink agreed, flashing her signature smile. After you, please. That same lab worker smiled back and inserted his keycard and allowed his eyes to be scanned. What floor? he asked. Sub twelve, Luna answered. Great! Were heading to the fifteenth. The elevator stuttered before descending. Evan wished his unorthodox plans turned out as smoothly as they did for Blink. He supposed some people were just that amazing or more likely, it was because shed been doing this far longer than he had and her competence preceded his. He should be taking notes. As the lift descended, it was impressive how fast the elevator had made it to the subterranean twelfth floor. The elevator stopped at the destination, followed by an automated voice that said, Please scan credentials in order to exit. Here, let me get out of your way, the kindly lab worker said. The group of rebels froze. It had gone so smoothly. The ceiling light flashed red, followed by an alarm. Attention, facility breached. Compromised personnel on site. Facility lockdown initiated. All units, keep watch for imposters claiming to be Tara Jones, F-2124, Justice Bell, E-1102, and Lu Tess, E-4033. Crap. 23: "Stealth Is Optional" The lab workers jaw gaped as he read the names attached to Evan and his groups uniforms. Twitch bowed his head and mouthed, Sorry, before he grabbed the head of one of the workers and bashed it against the wall. The others screamed as they scrambled for the elevator door, which was still sealed. Luna knocked down another. A third followed, courtesy of Blink. Evan grabbed the fourth, pulling him back, not sure what he was going to do to him. The worker snatched something in the right of his coat. Evan fought to restrain the hand, but the man managed to unsheathe a stubby gun with a strange liquid sloshing within it. The other rebels tackled the worker to the ground. The gun slid away. Twitch bashed the guys face with his foot, sending him to sleep. Gahh! Luna reeled back, grabbing at her neck. The fifth lab worker, the one who had helped them into the lift, stumbled back with the weird gun in hand. Luna knocked his head back against the elevator door. His body slumped to the ground. Luna grasped at where shed been stuck in the neck. What was in this? Evan asked as he picked up the weapon. Drugs that subdue Lunas words slurred, and her footing wobbled. Evan helped her sit against the wall. Her eyes battled to stay open. Security ahead stairs Her head dropped to her chest. Is she Blink rubbed her hands together nervously. Evan checked some labels on the gun. No, its just a tranquilizer. What do we do now? We cant leave her here. Twitch signed to his sister. Whats he saying? Evan asked. Blink translated, He thinks this lift wont be going anywhere because of the lockdown, like at Alpha base. So, we could leave her here and come back for her after we get your friend. There wasnt anything else Evan could think of other than lugging Luna blindly around the facility. I guess thats our plan. Lets swap into these lab outfits. You guys can, they mentioned your names, not mine. Blink winked. Evan and Twitch took off their enforcer gear and donned the lab worker outfits. Help me get one of these lab guys up so we can open the door, Blink said. The three of them took the workers card and forced his eyes open to be scanned. The door popped open with the confirmation of his identity, Carlos Moreno, S-3380 C Afflicted Studies. Blink scrunched her face. Afflicted Studies? The doors popped open. Evan didnt know what to make of the title either, but now wasnt the time to contemplate the implications. They could figure out what was going on after they had saved Ken and got out of there. They entered a hallway that split three ways. The facility was soaked in spinning red lights. Signs on the ceiling designated that the left was Cell Blocks, forward was Security, and to the right was Stairs. Evan led his friends down the security section, tranquilizer still in hand. The hallway opened to a catwalk overlooking rows and rows of glass and steel cells the size of sports cars. So many cells, thousands of them, stacked upon each other to make up colossal walls that stretched for miles in both directions before breaking off at hard angles, a hallway system big enough for giants. Loader drones, about the size and shape of tireless trucks, would back up to gaps between the cells and then move whole glass cages onto their backs before taking them away to some other part of the facility. They had white headlights that broke up the red emergency lights spinning from the ceiling and better illuminated the thousands of prisoners within the cages. The lot of which banged against the walls of their glass cages, waved their hands, or were red faced from shouting C their cries inaudibly trapped by the glass with them. Unauthorized usage: this tale is on Amazon without the author''s consent. Report any sightings. Its true Evan muttered. Theyve been holding Afflicted here. Blink asked, To do what? That was an answer Evan wasnt sure he was ready to find out, despite his minds appetite for the truth. For now, they had their mission. At the end of the catwalk was a hexagonal pillbox. A couple of guards stood watch there, and small windows revealed more soldiers managing an orchestra of control systems inside. One of the catwalk guards flashed a palm. No unessential personnel permitted here at this time. Get to your designated lockdown zones. The trio slowed down their pace but didnt stop. What should we do? Blink whispered. Evan concealed the tranquilizer in his coat as best as he could without making it obvious. I can hit them with this. The farther guy will notice before you get this one. Maybe I can teleport you over to the other before they have time to do anything. Luna says the base has systems that can detect stuff like that, energy signatures and what not. Blink shrugged. The base is already on alert, right? Does it matter? It might tell the purifiers where to look. She conceded with a curt nod and turned her signature charm as they approached the guard. Heya! These two are new and stopped me for help. They havent gone through the lockdown procedures yet. I figured this was the best place to bring them. I love your hair by the way. Huh? Evan looked to Twitch to see if he was as perplexed as he was. The twin shrugged. The guard was nonplussed at first, but then ran a hand loosely over a braid that lay across her shoulder. Uh, thanks. I suppose those two can wait here until lockdown is over, probably cant make it to their zones at this point anyway. Thanks! Blink flashed a wide grin and continued forward. Evan was certain that wouldnt have worked if hed tried, she was a dang skeleton key for this stuff. He walked toward the next guard, holding the tranquilizer close to his side. Wait, the woman guard said. Blink tensed up. Keep going, she whispered to Evan and Twitch. They didnt hesitate, though she turned back. Yeah? Dont you have your own duty? Evan couldnt see what was happening, he didnt turn back to check, he had to get to the other guard. Twitch hurried as well. Uh, Blink stuttered, Yeah, right. I was just seeing them through. Ill be heading there now. Arent you supposed to be on the flight deck? Evans scarpered as fast as he could without running, which still managed to draw the next guards attention, who readied his weapon intuitively. Blink coughed. Yes Thats No. I was just borrowing this uniform. Borrowing? Evan was only a bodys length from his target. Whats the rush? The male guard called out. Get back! Ordered the woman guard. The male guard socketed his rifle into his shoulder, but Twitch and Evan were on him before he could fire. Evan slotted the tranquilizer into the crook of the guys neck and pressed the trigger. The guy fell limp in a matter of seconds. Evan turned back. Blink grabbed the womans braid and yanked it full force, bringing her head against the catwalks railing with a clang. The guard collapsed. Sorry. The braid was nice. Blink jogged over to Evan and Twitch. There was no telling how many guards were exactly behind the security room door. The rebels readied themselves in front of it. Twitch flashed three fingers. On three? Evan asked. The twins nodded. One. Two. Three! Evan bust the door open and ran in with his friends. They skidded to a stop, faced with three pistols in the hands of three guards. The guns ignited. A swirl of light swept up Evan. Now he and Twitch were behind the guards. He shoved the tranquillizer into one, and then a second, but nothing happened on the third C hed run dry. Fortunately, the trio of rebels were more than enough to overpower the last guard and choke him unconscious. Evan tossed the gun to the ground and listened for any change in the alarms that might indicate theyd given themselves away, but there was nothing different. Maybe we are safe to use our powers at this point, he conceded. No one responded, and then he realized why. Blink was no longer wearing the enforcer helmet C itd been left behind at the door when she teleported. Her good hand was flickering. She gritted her teeth and breathed hard through her nose. Finally, the flickering stopped, and it seemed her hand was normal again. Are you ok? Evan asked. She sighed. Yeah, I got it now. He didnt want to say it, but he could tell she was reaching her limit. Theyd have to be careful not to put themselves in a situation where she needed to use her powers again, or else he feared she wouldnt be able to stabilize herself. Evan made his way to the consoles. Dozens of screens showcased the enormity of the facility. Evan raised his wrist computer and activated Rowics A.I. The screens lit up with a virus program. Hello? some voice said over the system. Rowic? Vihn? Is that you, Evan? You guys made it? It sounded like Rowic. Yes! Were in one of the security rooms over the prison cell blocks. What should we do? Here, let me take care of a few things. The screens flickered with data. Alright! Theres a cell for someone named Kenneth Doleson! Evans heart flipped, but he steadied himself because in every instance of good news, some ugly truth always followed. But hes not there, look. Yep, here came the ugly. The screen flashed to an empty cell. Evan clenched his teeth. Then where is he? Uh, he might not be here but someone else is. What? The screen changed to another cell, a sight that dropped Evans mouth. Inside the cell was his father. 24: "Bullets, Purifier, Blood" was his father. Why is he here? Evans skin burned, vibrating with mental dread. The truth. He had condemned his father to imprisonment. Charlie Crain taking over Monolith, the news interviews, it was all to cover up his father being imprisoned. It had all been because of Evan. His file says involvement with Afflicted terrorists, Rowics digitized voice said. Evan had to rip off his lab coat so he could cool down as his control started to slip away with his thoughts. He wouldnt let it; he wouldnt be a victim here. He looked over the controls. Rowic, how do we get him out? Vihn protested, Hold it, kid. We arent here for him. Thats crap! Evan yelled. Sparks kicked up from the console. He stumbled back. Our deal was that you help me, and I help you take down my father. But hes right there. Hes a prisoner, hes already been beaten. Hes not in charge anymore, maybe he never really was, dont you get it? Thats my dad. Help me, help me. Sorry, ki- Vihn. Rowic interjected. The comms went silent. Evan looked through the security cameras. Squads of soldiers led by purifiers scrambled through the facility, some descending in elevators. Time was running out. Evan, Blink called from the doorway. He went to her. A loader drone hovered above the catwalk. Rowics voice came back over the security monitor. Your friend is on the fifteenth floor. But sorry, we cant take your dad, man. Well keep in contact with you over your commlinks now that Im plugged into this sectors security systems. The computer lit up with a message. Ill help you out, bro. But Vihns not going to like it. Sending the loader to grab your dad and bring him topside. Get your friend. Thanks, Evan said as he ran back to the elevators with Blink and Twitch. The loader drone pulled up into the air and made its way deeper into the wall of cages until it stopped at one that might have held his father, he couldnt tell from the distance. The drone slid its flatbed underneath the cage, unlatched it with the aid of mechanical arms, then flew around the corner of the great cell blocks with the cage on its back. What was Evan supposed to feel? Was he supposed to be thankful? Mad? A part of him was relieved to know his father had been imprisoned, if only it might mean that hed been on Evans side the whole time. The Governor could be the Blood Red Armys greatest ally, or so Evan hoped. The team was back at the elevator, where it was clear theyd made a sizable mistake. Oh, Im some kind of idiot, arent I? he said. Whats wrong? Blink asked. Evan pointed to a digital number display above the elevator, that read fifteen. The scientist set the elevator to continue on to floor fifteen. Its fine, Luna is still probably on the lift. Unless someone down there found her. Blink shrugged. Ill just teleport us, no problem. Blink Come on, its a simple fix. He looked down at her hands, specifically the gloved one that she slipped delicately behind her back. What? she asked. You are freaky impressive, Blink. I cant even find the words to describe how amazing I think you are. Youve gotten us so far. But you have your limits. We all do. Dont push yourself anymore today. You cant help us if your drawback takes over. This novel is published on a different platform. Support the original author by finding the official source. Twitch nodded. She sighed. Alright, maybe you guys have a point. Well do things the boring, long, and hard way. Thank you, Evan said. Then numbers above a different elevator started ticking up. Rowic, whats in those lifts? He asked. One second. Three. Four. Five. Evan, you guys need to get out of there now. Seven. Eight. Evans body quivered. Why? Whats coming down those lifts? Nine. Purifier! Get the-! Evan didnt wait to hear more. There was no time to pick up the scientist and scan his eyes, they had to act. He yanked the twins with him through an emergency exit door. Ding! He didnt dare turn back. His legs burned as he sprinted down a hallway, pushed through another door to a flight of stairs, and hopped down the first dozen or so steps. How he wished the stairwell had been enclosed, but no, the only thing to protect their descent was a thin guardrail that twisted along with the stairs. One false step could see him tumbling down into an endless fall. This was some super-villain stuff if hed ever seen it. A temple of tankers, vats, and machines stretched out before him to form a vast laboratory. Duck! Rowic screamed over the comm. Evan stumbled as he struggled to comprehend the order. He dropped just as the wall above his heads exploded in a shower of dust and rubble. A chain gun chunked away from the stairs behind above, reducing the surrounding stairwell to confetti. The three rebels grabbed each other tight, trying to diminish themselves against the hail of bullets. Light flicked around them as Blink activated her powers, but Evan knew if she teleported now, she might not make it all the way out in one piece. He thrust his hands against the stairs. Their shape gave way and flattened into a slide by Evans will. His mind spun, and his tongue buzzed, but he pushed himself. Go! He shoved his friends, and the three of them slid down the smoothed-out metal. Evan maintained his focus, trying his best not to flip over from the sudden momentum. The stairs ahead of them continued to collapse into the slide formation moments before his feet could collide with them. The gunfire kicked up great heaves of granite and sparks all around them. Twitch summersaulted down the slide at a faster pace than Evan could use his powers. Evan dove after the twin, grabbing his heel and pulling him back just before he rolled off the side of the stairs. Evan lost his balance and fell off the side of the stairwell instead. Down he went, the flights of stairs zipping away above him. He saw it all for a moment. The purifier stood at the twelfth-floor doorway, a behemoth of metal, machine gun hanging from his wrist. His arm shuddered at the might of the weapons power. The display was a shower of grey fireworks. Two flights down were the twins clutching on to one another. One of Blinks arms reached out for Evan, as if it could catch him now. It wouldnt; it couldnt. He was another three flights past where his friends were - free-falling past the eighteenth floor now. Past where Ken was supposed to be. Down, down, down to his death. Itd be all their deaths if he didnt do something. He thrust his arms out. The winding stairs exploded before him, but still he fell. He sucked in his breath, and flung his arms out again, this time underneath him. Something down there in the abyss ruptured, but he couldnt see. He couldnt see anything as his vision blurred, as Blink flickered in light, he did too. They shrieked as their bodies skid through a door labeled Fifteen. Rolling, and rolling, three bodies colliding against walls and metal tables. Bare skin burning from sliding against concrete, until they bashed against some solid barrier. Evan pushed himself up drunkenly. Blink He went to her. He had to see if shed pushed herself too far. She sat up bewilderment in her eyes. That was crazy. Huh? Evan couldnt see any evidence of Blinks drawback, though her nose trickled with blood. He was positive that was her last jump before something permanent happened to her. As she stood and helped Twitch from his prostrated position, she said, You flew. I was about to jump for you, but the air exploded underneath you and you shot back up to us. It reminded me of Nylas powers. Evan tried to piece it together. Had he just launched himself like a rocket by blowing up the air? Had he just He doubled over and heaved, then dropped to the floor next to his regurgitated mess, dizzily. Are you guys alright? Rowic asked. Yoooo are they they dead, man? Daniels voice came. Vihn spoke with an unusual degree of concern. Evan? Blink? Twitch? Whats going on? Evan couldnt bring himself to speak, everything blurry before him. Were being chased by a purifier, Blink answered. Both her and Twitch pulled Evan up, but he couldnt feel his footing. Evan saved us. Hes fading. Where do we go, guys? Evan muttered, We have to go. That purifier would be on them at any moment. He wrapped an arm around each of the twins as they guided him. All the doors and walls and stairs and floor and ceiling and lights and signs and sounds blurred together. It was like walking in dream. Blink pushed against a door, but it didnt budge. Its locked by eye and card scanners just like the elevators. There was no time to hold back. Evan pressed his hand against the surface in front of him hoping it was the same door she was standing in front of, because now he saw twenty where he swore there had only been one. His consciousness melted away with surface. They fell through. His mind fell. Bullets fell. Purifier Black Right Bullets Bullets Bullets Blood Left Door Blood Screams Blink! Bullets Door Twitch! Evan! Get inside. Black Black Black. 25: "Lucky Break" Evan found himself on the cold tile in what looked like a medical wing of some sort. Branching hallways that were crowded with monitoring equipment, IV bags, and the smell of ammonia. In front of him were sealed blast doors that reverberated with the pounding of something large. The purifier no doubt. Vihn asked, Evan? Twins? Whats your status? Blink huffed. Were trapped in some sort of hospital or something, and the Feds are trying to get in. I dont know why they cant. Rowic explained. Ive been able to manipulate some of the facilitys functions. I can keep the door locked down for now, but theres not much beyond that that I can do. Good news though C records say your friend is somewhere in that wing. So, we get him, and then what? She asked. Evan desired to contribute to this conversation but struggled to manage more than a grunt. It was like his body had been tenderized by a giant robot, and that robot was still sitting on his chest. Uh well come up with something, just keep moving. Those doors will only do so much. There was some blood trickling down Blinks eyebrow, and Twitch cradled a bruised elbow. Im sorry, Evan said, peeling himself off the floor. The twins helped him stand. It felt as if their fingers were penetrating his skin. He staved off the urge to moan and shrugged them off while he found his footing. Why are you sorry? Blink asked. I got us trapped here, and probably got us killed. Probably got Luna killed, too. I screwed it all up just so I could save one person. Screwed it up just because I didnt want to see more enforcers get killed. Evan rolled his neck. He didnt have the strength to feel the guilt, but the words still made their way out of his lips all the same. He thought about what Jeck had told him. Maybe a bit of Vihns cynicism had also taken root. People die all the same. Ive just traded my friends lives for my enemys. Blink waved off the suggestion. How about we find Ken first, then we can talk whether or not you got us killed, huh? He supposed that was as much as he could ask for. As long as he could still breathe, then there was still a chance to make it out alive. Bam! Mounds popped into the doors surface, looking like hills. It wouldnt take long for the purifier to get through. He searched his surroundings for clues as to where Ken might be held. There was a sign at the center of the room, which had the makings of a waiting lounge with sofas and a front desk. The sign was a map of the medical wing. The word Observation Room stuck out as much as any word might. He beckoned the others with him, the blast doors clanging behind them. The observation room was rather barren with steel tables, some computer monitors, and a chair with straps at the center of the room that was bolted to the floor. Evan found another door in the back of the room that led to yet another hallway. Evan imagined Twitch was asking, How are we going to find him in this place? when he threw up his hands. It was what Evan was thinking. Any ideas, Rowic? Evan asked Mm, yeah. I see it. Building schematics say theres a holding room at the end of the red line. It was then that Evan realized there were three colored lines with arrows on the floor that ran the course of the hallway; one green, one blue, one red. Some words were written on the lines, with the red line pointing behind them and titled Lab Security. This way. Evan pointed. Blink asked, Dont you think its weird that the whole base is on lockdown, but we havent run into anyone else on this floor yet? Shouldnt there be more scientists and guards down here? It was weird. But Evan couldnt afford to worry about that. Hed take any good luck at this point. We dont have time to question it. We just have to trust our fate. He stumbled forward down the red line. The security room was locked. I got it, Rowic said. The door swooshed open as Evan and the twins ran through. No one else was inside. The wall was lined with video terminals, amps, sound suppression foam, and a sound board stretching around it. Evan admitted, Yeah something is wrong here. Rowic whistled. I think I know what happened. Watch. A video played on one of the monitors. Evan couldnt believe it. There was Ken strapped to a medical chair, with wires and stubbing coming in and out of his body. A football shaped microphone was setup in front of him, and his eyes looked dead as they stared at a television box that was secured to his head. There were some lab workers in the room with him using obscene looking tools. The lights in the room flashed to the red emergency lights and the alarm sounded. The scientists left their tools and walked into the hallway with several other workers, perhaps trying to determine what to do next. Ken smacked his gums and spoke in a voice that was a perfect mimic of the alarms voice. Warning, he said, throwing his voice out so it sounded like it was coming from the speakers, biohazard breach on floor fifteen. All personnel, please evacuate floor fifteen to floor sixteen immediately in order to avoid harm. The scientists and security guards bought it, escaping the floor, and leaving Ken alone strapped to his chair. Woah, Blink said. Evan nodded, Hes smart, man. Hes always been smarter than me. Hey, kids, looks like Kens in lab twenty-two. Heard. Evan hobbled that direction with Blink and Twitch behind him. If they could all make it out alive, Evan would never doubt himself again. Blink looked down the halls. Maybe the elevator is still on this level. Unauthorized duplication: this tale has been taken without consent. Report sightings. Go, Ill keep searching for Ken. She nodded and signaled Twitch to follow down a splitting hall. Part of Evan desired to help them, but he was confident theyd manage. He had to maintain focus. He made it to the room where Ken was supposed to be. Things were much worse than what hed seen in the video. Kens wrists were chaffed red from straps around them. He wore an orange prison jumper that was unzipped down to his waist. A dozen tubes and wires were hooked up to him, none of them clear as to their purpose other than add to the torture film aspect of the room. His eyes were heavily bloodshot - his eyelids peeled back by tiny brackets - and glistening from whatever the television screen above him was playing. The screen showed fast images of nonsense footage. Insects, dead bodies, lips, abstract art, and then intercut with a black screen and white text of anti-Afflicted and pro-Federation nonsense, Change. Serve. Afflicted. Die. Repent. Change. Serve, on and on. How could anyone do this to another person? To what end? Evans chest ached. He had to stop this. Where did he start? He unlatched the eye brackets. The video still reflected in those bloodshot eyes. Evan found a cloth hanging from a hook and threw it over Kens eyes to break whatever brain washing the Feds were trying to do to him. He felt for the things leaching Ken, the snakes and tendrils that sucked his life away, and severed their connections. Finally, the straps could come off and Evan helped a head-shaven Ken out of the chair. Shaved it made him look older, torn down what had his hair looked like before? Ken fell to the floor. Evan dropped to help him back up. The cloth had fallen off his eyes. They locked with Evans. Still Kens eyes, still his soul. I got you bro, Evan said. E Ken blinked. E-friend? Evan let out a deep breath. Yeah, its me buddy. A tear fell from Kens eyes, then another, and now a stream as he embraced Evan. They embraced. Thank you thank you, Evan rejoiced. Im going to do whatever it takes to get you out of here, man, he promised Ken. Evan looped Kens left arm over his neck and limped out with him. Kens body was heavy, slouched, weighed down by whatever chemicals they had been pumping into him. Well make it home first, then well collapse, then well give up C once weve made it. Blink and Twitch came down the hall, no Luna. You found him! Blink cheered. Twitch ran over and took Kens other arm. Evan asked, wheres Luna? Blink shook her head. We couldnt find her. Im sorry, Evan. It was shameful. Hed gained her trust and fought so much for her survival. Shed risked everything to help him, and now she was gone C captured or worse. But there wasnt much he could do now. He couldnt risk the whole mission; he couldnt risk losing his brother again. All he could do was hope shed find a way out on her own somehow. How do we get out of here, Rowic? Evan asked. Ah, well. I dont have great news for you guys. Enforcers are standing ready to come down the lifts. The purifier is almost through the blast door, and another one is making its way to the emergency exit with even more enforcers. So were surrounded? Blink cracked her knuckles. Ill get us out of here. Blink, Evan sighed, there are fifteen floors between us and the top. If you jump that Someone might get hurt, or worse. What other choice do we have? Kens lips cracked as he spoke. Camera room? Evan wasnt sure what he meant. Thats back towards the purifier. Trust me. Ken tugged Evan to the left. Evan nodded. We have to get back to the security room, he said over the comm. Be careful guys, that purifier is almost through. Dont even try to go to the emergency exit, that way is blocked. Evan hobbled with Ken faster. How much time do we have before those soldiers intercept us? Ill take care of it, but you got maybe five good minutes, tops. Evan pushed further, but they were still too slow. Ken couldnt stand on his own either. We need another way to get there. Evan looked around for options. Blink stopped him again. Look, let me take him. Ill be all right, ok? We have to work together - you have to trust me. Ive been through a heck of lot more than you realize. She was right, Evan knew she was. He nodded and let her take Ken. Ill be ok, E-friend, I love you bud. Ken squeezed Evan before going with Blink. Ok. You better be man. I love you, bro. It felt wrong, finally saving his buddy, promising to never let him go again, just to have his other friend risk herself as well. Blink smiled softly. Well be ok. Trust me. Evan sucked in a cold breath, then nodded. In a flash, they were gone, leaving Twitch and him alone. Twitch gripped Evans shoulder, providing a warmth of comradery. They could do this. They had to do this. But he still hadnt heard Blinks voice. Please say something. Please C Evan? Blink? Yeah, were good. Im passing my comm to Ken. Evan steadied himself. Itd worked, he just needed to keep moving. Lets go, he said to Twitch. They ran past the blast door, which was gashed with holes where the purifier had made significant impact. Evan saw a glimpse of him through the cracks, and he knew death would meet them soon if they didnt escape. Evan? Ken asked. What do you need, bud? Evan asked. Microphone. Soldiers. Names. Evan called to Rowic. Hey, can you help Ken get microphone access, and tell him the IDs of the soldiers and purifiers on our floor? He made it past a lane of elevators, one of which he could hear banging and shouting coming from within. It was clear Rowic was keeping the encroaching forces busy through his hacker sorcery. He relayed identification codes of each soldier on the floor over the comm. Ken cleared his throat. Evan and Twitch were almost to the security room. Then came Kens power. Unit P-30, he said in the alarm systems voice, enforcer unit E-20 are in control of floor fifteen. Redirect efforts to floor sixteen to engage Afflicted hostiles. The assault on the blast door stopped, followed by the bass steps of the purifier leaving. Evan muttered, My bro. Hurry. Ken said. Evan reunited with his friends, and was greeted with one of Kens rare smiles, crooked as it was, working its way into his lips. The plan had worked. This was the power of diversity, the capability to take on the overlords, each gift chipping away at the enemys hold. He admitted his revelation to Blink. I think I know what you meant now, back at Alpha base. About how everyone coexists. She winked. Together, ape strong. Excuse me? She shrugged. It was a good movie. Evan chuckled. I have a lot of catching up to do. Hey, kids. Freaking get out of there already? Vihns cut in, the strum of his tight vocals sobering them. Right! Evan waved on the group. They ran for the blast door, Ken now able to stumble his way with minimal support from Evan. The door lifted only halfway, battered to bits. The team crawled underneath it and made for the upper stairs. However, the damage Evan had done to the steps was far greater than hed realized. There was no climbing the slide of metal that hed made, and the sound of soldiers encroached its way from behind them. Heads up! A loader drone descended with its flatbed facing them. They jumped on and clutched to what they could as the drone ascended, up, up, through a sky door at the top of the roof. Up, up, up, and free into the blue rapture of the outside sky. The Sun kissed Evan, and sibling clouds smiled at them. Below, the base swarmed with soldiers, but none seemed to give attention to the drone that flew across the mountain range. It zipped low under an overhanging cliff to where Ad Astra waited for them. As soon as the drone landed, Blink, Twitch, Evan, and Ken hopped off and entered the safety of Ad Astra. The rest of the crew rushed to them, except for Rowic who was presumably still in the cockpit, and Vihn who watched from a distance. Evan noted the old stranger nod. Ken was helped to a medical table in a room with just enough space for Evan and Cranston to stand in. The other crew took to their roles in prepping the ship, before Evan had time to process what had happened. Buckle in, team, were heading home, Rowic said over the ships speakers. Ken lay on the table while Cranston ran a hand scanner over him that tracked his condition. Evan stood with his hands in his pockets, dumbstruck that hed succeeded, but not sure what he could do while his friend was being examined. Ok, E-friend. Ken gave him a reassuring nod. Cranston rolled up Kens sleeve and prepped it for a needle. He looked above the frames of his glasses at Evan. I got it here, son. Hes doing good. Go take a rest. You deserve it. You did good. Evan sighed, unable to fathom that theyd made it to this point. He kept expecting to wake up at any moment. He started to walk out but stopped. Oh! I forgot! He reached into his pocket and pulled out Kens ID and handed it to his brother. This is yours, buddy. Ken flipped the thing over quizzically, and finally said to Evan, Mine? Thats right, man. Yours. Evan left the room. Successful mission... for everyone except one. Hed traded one life for another. Maybe this was the way it had to be. Hed find a way to save Luna next, they just had to get back to Alpha base and regroup. Evangelos? Evans chest tightened as he heard the voice from one of the ships bunk rooms. Hed almost forgotten. Dad? Interlude: "Norton, the Federation Janitor" - (Alt POV) (BONUS CHAPTER) Some time ago, at Hazard Station... What the actual Norton huffed. Hed only brought a mop to deal with the mess before him, a single stick with a bundle of yarn on top to clean up what in the ever-loving Federation of America was this? The bar was thrashed C tables tossed everywhere, rotting puddles of alcohol and millions of glass shards around an exploded countertop, clumps of ash, bullet casings, splotches of blood everywhere, a severed arm, a separated leg, a headless corpse C oh, and a mass of twisting vines that had ripped apart the back wall of the room. Norton had seen worse. But geeze, what happened here? He sighed. He knew what happened. A big ol purifier sweeping the floor with a raggedy crew of rebels over what was probably nothing important. Killing was the only way people knew how to get anything done in this country. Now it was Nortons job to clean it all up. Clean it all up? With his mop? If his supervisor had told him it was this bad, hed have at least brought the cleaning drones with him. And why clean it up anyway!? The owner was that headless dude on the floor. Just burn the place down and itd all be over with. But that wasnt how the Federation dealt with these things, was it? They never did things the practical way. Even when there was a bush of two corpses down the road one way, and a crashed helicopter and two armored cars the other way, the Federation believed there was such a thing as mopping up the evidence. That was Nortons job. Clean up the mess so people could pretend nothing happened, and they couldnt bother to tell him the severity ahead of time and didnt have the brains to just burn the stuff up and leave it at that. He knew he shouldnt complain though C he signed up for this job, after all. Get a job being a janitor, his mom said, itll be a great way to pay for tuition! Sure, itd help him afford college after several years, maybe more. But being that hed seen the aftermath of rebels and enforcers killing each other a dozen times, the corp in charge of the cleaning detail never accepted his resignation. Or maybe Norton was just too good at his job. Head of the freaking Federation Affliction Clean-up detail C that was him. An incidental promotion at that. Man, he wished he had those cleaning drones, but they were off dealing with the crashed helicopter and cars down the road. Hed normally borrow some local ones, but theyd encountered some processing malfunction or whatever, and were off getting maintenance. So, his gaggle of cleaning drones C did he just think gaggle? Ah, screw it. Yeah, his gaggle of drones were busy and the local ones out of commission. So, with his mop, hed have to get to work C because that was his job C and he needed that tuition money. His lamenting was snapped away by the buzz of his radio. Unit J-1112, update? his supervisor asked. Where to begin? Norton leaned on the edge of a sideways patron table and pressed the button of a radio strapped to his shoulder C yes, a small old police walkie, because there was once another janitor whose head got blown off because there was an Afflicted with some sort of Bluetooth connection powers, or something freaking weird. Guy wasnt fully dead when the janitor came in, connected to his ear pods, and detonated his cranium. Thats right, a near-corpse Afflicted connected to an ear pod like he was a wireless device and turned that janitor into a firework display. Norton shivered at the memory. So, no radios for him from then on C and because he was the head of the detail, he could do whatever he wanted C short of quit or be informed to bring more than a mop. Stolen content warning: this tale belongs on Royal Road. Report any occurrences elsewhere. Well, Norton sighed, its more than a puddle Is burning down the place and pretending it was an accident not an option? Norton Seriously, theres a foot dangling out from the wall C I dont know how else to describe this to you C I dont get paid enough, you know that. Norton. It never worked to complain to the supervisor. The corps that paid them wouldnt ever hear it, but Norton doubted they realized what was going on either. After the news got enough pictures and footage to run on the air, no one cared about the details C they just wanted things to be detailed by the Federation Affliction Clean-Up Detail because thats what the detail was supposed to do. Not because they needed him to do it C any amount of fire would suffice. No, they needed it cleaned up and rearranged C even though the bartender was dead C because there was little use asking questions. He was stalling, he knew it. So, he stopped asking questions and mentally complaining and got to work. Time to get cleaning and start getting paid. Work on that college fund. Find the courage to ask his boss to let him go (or give him a raise). Find a girl and marry her. Kiss the East goodbye and hitch an airship to the West where all the artsy rich people lived. Hed heard there were barely any Afflicted or rebels out there, or so thats what the news always said. Who knew when the FND was telling the truth. Anyway, Norton took his mop and decided the bar would be a good place to start. Yep, that brown bottle of liquor needed to be cleaned, and he would shine the heck out of it. The rich, memory dulling nectar of, get me through the next couple hours before I lose my mind. ***** It was daylight when Norton had finished. Thankfully hed found some more tools in the back of the bar to help deal with the mess C he just had to crawl through a bunch of thick vines to get there. The drones finally came back to help incinerate the vines and cart off the human bits scattered around the bar. That was that. Bar detailed. All evidence of what happened expunged. Tidy little display that the Federation could spin into whatever they wanted, and none could say different (except for the injured enforcers and escaped rebels who had been here, but that was beside the point). Norton cracked his neck and massaged his stiff shoulders. The drink had started to kick in, and he wobbled his way out into the street looking for his motorcycle. Hmm, maybe drinking and driving wasnt the play. Should have thought about that Oh well, not like there was much to go home to. His radio buzzed again. Norton, did you clear out the mess up town by the white houses? Oh, crap! Norton had not, indeed. Two more corpses and another mess of vines awaited. He called over the radio, Look, Ill take care of it. But you gotta hire more people to help me in the future, ok? Norton, I told you alreadyC I know, I know C we need every new recruit to enforce and shoot guns, not waste time cleaning up. I get it. I mean, I guess the seven or so ex-soldiers here do need to be replaced. I cant believe youre talking about them so casually. Its just how I cope, maam. Its just how I cope. So, the work continued. But to Nortons luck, there was a house that had been left unlocked C so he gladly took the bed to sleep off the liquor. Seeing as the family that lived there had been taken away as traitors, it was all to himself. Not to say he was glad what happened to them C that was freaking terrible, hed hate anyone to be taken away as traitors. Theyd probably be interrogated by those VR investigators C odd folk. But he was certain they were probably the next line of recruits, anyway. The Federation was very forgiving to people who decided to enlist as a form of penance. Shortage of soldiers indeed. Oh well, it was time for sleep. Tomorrow was a day of much potential potentially more bizarre things to clean up. As far as jobs went though, there were far worse. 26: "Fathers Plan" Then The chapel was covered in swaths of mourners sitting in short cubicles, each equipped with a virtual reality headset. The floor was raked at a descending angle that circled the main stage. At the center was a man, positioned next to a sealed beige casket. His VR headset concealed his eyes, but Evan recognized the stiff posture and unflinching jaw. His father situated by himself, while Evan was made to sit in the front row with relatives he barely knew. Thankfully Ken was allowed to sit behind him. The war had delayed the memorial, but now it was finally happening. A holographic imagine stood to the right of the casket, smiling, and waving at the crowd. Evan choked up. It wasnt real, but it was the closest thing hed seen to her actual smile in a while C unshackled of the secret unhappiness she wore in life. A man in a preachers robe crept to the edge of the stage and said, the vigil is ready, now. Please, at your own pace, you may put on your visors and speak with the deceased. These vigils allowed mourners to speak with a crude A.I. made to mimic those who have passed, recreated based on the users mental projection of them. Evan could talk to his mom one last time, say goodbye, as much as was possible at this point. He was frozen. Monster. Ken leaned to his ear. Ok, E-friend? Evan nodded. Ken placed a hand on his shoulder. Its ok, buddy. Evan looked back at him hesitantly. You think I should talk to her? Yes. His skin buzzed as he slid the cold VR visor over his eyes. It was just a black screen at first. After a moment, it registered his name, Evangelos Hendricks Jr. It was a surreal thing, the anticipation of talking to a proxy version of a loved one, maybe unethical from a certain point of view. But this conversation was for him, and him alone. It would just be an A.I., but it was the closest hed ever get to seeing her again. The black screen peeled back to white, and there she was. Smiling and waving, just like the hologram on stage. She was beautiful. Peaceful, kind, whole. Evans thoughts translated into words within this virtual reality. Mom? He took one step forward, like wading through water. Baby boy. She took a step forward. A tear weaved done her cheek. Its not really her. No, dont say that. Embrace it, you idiot. Embrace your mom With that thought, Evan went to her, each step easier than the last until he was close enough to hug her C But he didnt. Mom? Her hands fell to his head. He could almost feel her thin fingers brushing out his hair. Ive missed you, Evan. Warmth filled his body, and goose prickles ran after the feeling. Im sorry. Im sorry for what I did. I didnt mean it. Im sorry. Shhh. She bent down to him and pulled up his chin. You have never done anything wrong, my love. I am so proud of you. Monster. Evan thought. He shook his head; he didnt want to bring that word into this simulation. Evan, I am so proud- Her words broke. Evan looked up at his mother who was frozen in her smile. The screen flashed to black with a message that ran across it. Remain seated. An assistant will be there shortly, and the illusion was broken. ***** Now Evan sat with his father on the edge of a bed. His father explained, They arrested me the night Joseph Krow found out about your powers. The door was cracked slightly open, letting in the celebratory laughter and conversations coming from the rest of Phoenix One. Evan couldnt believe who he was looking at. This was dad, but with more forehead creases, and greyer hairs streaking his uncharacteristically disheveled hair. His brown eyes were tired things, but his words were warming. How unsettling it was, to make it to the end of an epic journey and find that instead of credits rolling, life continued. Was this what heaven might be like? A never-ending overflow of peace, of answers, of being surrounded with the people you loved the most? There were still many questions left unanswered, and despite the warmth that abided within him, he dared to seek the truth before it slipped away again. Evan said, I saw the propaganda videos. I didnt realize they could fake people that well. Father shook his head. Theyve been using that technology for ages, but I never thought Id see myself replaced by a computer. The worst part is what they did with Ken. To hear your own voice like that Its like being in a nightmare? Evan asked. Father nodded. And they gave Monolith over to Crain. Ah. Yes thats, complicated. Father looked away. There was a moment of silence after this. What should Evan say? I, uh Evan started. Yes? Evan stared at his twiddling thumbs. He didnt know if he wanted to know the answer, but he needed to ask. Did you tell the enforcers about Kens powers? he asked. Father didnt respond, and Evan knew it was true. That warmth teetered toward the drain of dark truths. Why? Why would you do that to him? We trusted you. The Governor took a deep breath. I made a mistake, Evan. There was a plan, you see. I wasnt going to let anything happen to your friend, thats why I had him brought to my Monolith facility. I thought I could keep him safe there until everything was sorted. But I misjudged what you would do. Brother, not just friend. Adopted son. Son. Evan held back his anger, trying desperately to understand what his dad was saying. It seemed everything could go back to the way it was, they could be a family if only Evan made sure to keep it intact. It was my fault. Evan I kept trying to use my powers to save Ken, and everything fell apart. Evan thought about his emotions and how they had driven him to make rash decisions. His fear for Kens safety, and his rage that exposed his powers to Krow. Hed tried to help people; hed always tried to do what was right. But Maybe I should have trusted you from the beginning. Whenever I tried to help someone on my own, they or someone else either got hurt, or killed. No, dont blame yourself, son. Father placed a comforting hand on Evans shoulder. There will always be things out of your control, for as long as we have enemies. That is why I will always try to protect you, Evan. No one will break us, understand? No one Evan nodded and welcomed his dads embrace. It was good again. He was with his family again. Father pulled back and looked at Evan, his eyes glinting for a moment. Now, its been a while since Ive slept on something other than glass. Would you mind if I? Evan stood. Go ahead. He went for the door, paused only by his dads words. I love you, Evan. I love you, dad. Evan closed the door behind him and made his way into the main room. Hed managed to grip tightly to hope, and he hoped the struggles had finally ended, and what he saw reassured him that it just might be. Stolen content warning: this tale belongs on Royal Road. Report any occurrences elsewhere. Blink and Twitch danced in a circle, music streaming from the ships sound system. It was a sound Evan hadnt heard before. It had twang, and vocals much like Cranstons, though Evan couldnt quite understand what they were saying amidst all the instruments. Regardless, the twins laughed and smiled while Cranston, Daniel, Nyla, and even Ken sat around clapping and stomping their feet. Vihn leaned against the wall next to Evan. He grinned. Because of you, he said, Rowic was able to get his A.I. into some important files the Feds had at that base, stuff that can really help us in the war. Plus, you saved your friend and brought back your father. Im impressed. Good job, kid. Youre a rebel if there ever was one. Evan didnt much know what to say, other than entertaining a, Thank you, Captain. That got a chuckle out of Vihn, who offered Evan a swig of his flask, which Evan turned down. The old stranger shrugged and made his way back to the cockpit. Most everyone celebrated, except for Jeck. He sat apart from everyone else, staring at Evan. Should I bother? It might have been pointless, but Evan made his way to the bald man who obviously had some sort of objection. Dont dance? Evan asked. Jeck frowned. You really dont get it, do you? Get what? You lost one of your own, abandoned her, and now you all dance like she never existed. Jeck shook his head. It was exactly what Evan had struggled with when they escaped. Luna. The enforcer hed given hope to, then abandoned for the people he cared more about. He sighed. We couldnt save her. But well go back. With my dads help and the data Rowic got, well be able to figure out what happened to her. Well find her. Jeck clucked his tongue. Fool. You dont think its an oversight that no one here is locking your father up? Blind folding him? He knows everyones names and faces now, and hes the leader of the East, directly under President Caine. What damage he can wrought. This guy had grated Evan enough. He was arrested and thrown in that prison just like Ken was. Hes no friend of the Federation, any more than the rest of us. Its a na?ve wish, really. You dont think of the consequences. Jeck threw up his hands. But I dont know why I would expect anything different from a crew ran by Vincent. Whatever, man. Sulk all you want, at least we did something, not just hide in a basement. Jeck closed his eyes. Sometimes doing nothing is the right thing to do. Evan wanted to tell him that made no sense, but instead he wafted away the negativity in the air and joined his friends. Hed rather dance than waste another moment brooding. ***** The ship passed through the holographic mountains, into the tunnels of Alpha base, and returned safely to the landing docks. Life had returned to normal in the underground city as thousands went about their business much in the way Evan first saw them. Despite the occasional whisper of scouting parties and drone squads, it seemed as though the people were at ease, as they traded, milled about, and lived their lives. Evan and his father wear hoods, of course, seeming as they could still attract unwanted attention if the wrong people saw them. Andrea welcomed the whole team with a firm clap as they entered her planning room. The team had grown, and it was bonded. Nyla and Blink giggled with one another, while Twitch and Ken played some sort of finger game, and Cranston chatted with Dad. Vihn and Rowic laughed and reminisced over past operations, while Daniel drifted casually between the various conversations. It was only Jeck who held to the outskirts of the party, practically sustaining a personal raincloud above him. Evan pitied the guy, realizing hed had a similar disposition not too long ago. But now, he was home. The Ark met the Governor at the doorway. Her eyes were like x-rays as they scanned him. He looked none too pleased to be examined in such a manner. She stuck a hand out to him. He took it firmly. Her heterochronic eyes flickered for a moment, and then she backed away. Youre hard to read, mister Hendricks, I shouldntve expected any less from you, she said. He raised an eyebrow. Ive never been fond of strangers digging in my head. Just so. She walked to the projection table. Perhaps you will prove yourself an ally, perhaps an enemy. Time will tell. Father relented no indication that her words affected him. Instead, he said, Perhaps sooner than you think. I know many things, and I have no reason to hide what I know. My son and I were betrayed, and Ill do what it takes to make things right. In fact, I understand that your hacker has found some encrypted data that he has marginally been able to decode. Hell have no need. Ill gladly give you the codes required for unlocking what hes found. Vihn narrowed his eyes. How would you still have valid codes after being arrested? The Feds would have changed them. Theyre not that stupid. I still have close friends. People whom I planted in Monolith and other influential places. Friends whom the Federation owes many debts, and whom the Federation has failed to repay. I, however, have always kept them well accommodated. Rowics expression was a dubious one. You bribed them, so what? Whats to stop them from turning on you? On us? Because, Father started, the man I speak of was there the day Evan manifested his powers, and hes kept it a secret all of these days. Evan tried to piece together who he could be talking about, because everyone who had been there that day was either in the room, or dead. Everyone, except for a name that he vaguely recalled. Shwood Father nodded. Short for Brushwood. Hes been a friend of my family since I first migrated here from South America as a child, back before it was annexed by the Federation. He helped me assimilate, and I would not have been the governor at all were it not for his loyalty. Shwood The memories blurred for Evan. Hed heard the name before. Once, only once. It was Unification Day when he had When his powers had come. Hed only heard the name though, never seen a face. Shwood is what his father called out on that day when mom lay squirming in her blood. Had he truly been the key to his fathers success, and to Evan and Kens protection? The idea unsettled Evan, that his family was indebted to some other entity and had never known it. I remember him, Evan said. Shwood helped cover the incident with the enforcers on Unification Day. His father nodded. Andrea folded her arms. Then give him a call, if hed be so inclined to help us. It wouldnt be that simple. You might not have realized it, but the Federation intercepts long distance messages from you all the time, I just tend to be the one receiving them, and I rarely give information for free C even as governor. But Im not in charge anymore, and my friend lives in Dogma Isle. To contact him from here might give away his position, or ours. Actively withholding info about the rebels. If it werent for him, would the Feds have located this base a long time ago? More evidence Evans father hadnt been a puppet of the government like the others have said. Then what do you suggest? He opened his palm to Evan. My son and I can take a team to deliver a message to Shwood in the capital. He is still on the board of Monolith Industries, and he can protect whoever travels there. Once you have the information you need, we can return safely. I didnt want to be a piece of the game before, would I willing allow myself to become one now that my father has suggested it? Have I been one this whole time? Daniel waved his hands. Woah, hang on. What the heck is this data, whatever, that Rowic has anyway? Why do we care? The hacker hooked his tablet up to the projection table. An image of purifier armor appeared, rotating in midair. I found some stuff on purifiers. Names, locations, assignments, and new experimental designs. But beyond that, I think I may have found schematics. Meaning maybe I can finally figure out how to hack the things. Daniel said, You get drones just fine as is. Drones run on a network that I cracked a long time ago while they were still being made. Up until now Ive been subtle about how I control them, but after recent events, I wouldnt be surprised if the Feds were looking for a way to fix that. Anyway, purifier armor runs autonomously, and each suit has an onboard A.I. unique to each one. So basically, Vihn said, the data hes found might be enough to hack into one of those onboard A.I.s Yes. Andrea asked Father, You helped build Monolith Industries. The machines that come from there have had your touch. Why would you seek to undo everything youve built? My tools were turned against Evan and myself. I have always done, and will continue to do, whatever it takes to protect my family, he said with that sturdy river of a voice. Evan knew now where he got his need to protect others in his dads drive to do the same for him. This is crap, Nyla groaned. We cant trust this guy. Hes the reason why things like purifiers exist at all. Jeck agreed, Hes a snake. You let him in, and hell swallow us whole. Anger boiled inside of Evan but didnt let it take hold. His instincts led him to save both Ken and his father. Hed continue to stand by his family. I trust him. Hes done everything to protect us, Evan said. Fool, Jeck repeated. Blink jumped up. Back off, egghead. Wait, Evan said before the room exploded into a war of its own, If you dont trust him, then he should stay here while I go to Dogma Isle. If something goes wrong, then hell have you to deal with. We dont have anything to lose in trying that. Andrea asked, Are you sure, Evan? You would be heading into a trap if youre wrong. You helped me save my friend. Now its my turn to honor our deal and help you defeat the Federation, Evan said. Hmm, I believe that the deal was to help us defeat your father. She smirked. The Governor didnt react to this. Very well, she continued, Evan will go to the capital city and meet with Shwood. The Governor of the East will stay in our custody, and should anything go wrong, he will answer to us. Agreed? The crew gave varying responses of acknowledgment, followed by an eventual acceptance of it. Evan felt relief. His father would be safe while Evan could prove him trustworthy. With enough blessing, this meeting could help do more damage to the Federation and allow his family a clean chance at a new life. Andrea said to Vihn, You may select who you need on this mission. He faced Evan. I wont make anyone come with us. Purely volunteers. But my ship and I are with you, kid. Evan never expected to receive that kind of support from Vihn, but he bowed his head in acceptance, then looked to the rest of the team for their responses. Blink raised her hand. Me too! Twitch thumped his chest and flashed three fingers. Rowic tilted his tablet. Count me in. Yes, sir. Im with you, Cranston said. Daniel shrugged. Sure, why not. Even Nyla joined in. Fine. The total pledge of Phoenix One empowered Evan. This time theyd all stand by his side. He wasnt surprised to see Jecks disappointed scowl. Andrea sighed. Looks like your team is decided then. Now the question is when and how to get into the city. Father straightened; the politician speaking. The perfect day is upon us. In fact, Unification Day will be here by the end of the week. Tourists from all over the Federation will be arriving in the city, and you should be able to sneak in amongst them. The team agreed to the plan, but it was a day Evan dreaded. It wasnt just a celebration for the civil wars end. It was also the start of the Purifier Initiative and Evans birthday. 27: "The Calm" Evan sat with Ken and the twins on the edge of one of the upper terraces in Alpha Base. Their legs dangled over the side as the four of them watched a movie that played on the bases biggest screen. The city was lit only by a giant screen, and small fires that dotted the terraces and marketplace. Thousands of people had set up sleeping bags and chairs around the terraces and marketplace as a movie played. The air was cool. Evan zipped up his old brown jacket with the upside-down Federation patch (multiple washes had reduced the blood stain to a dark beige) and wrapped a wooly blanket over his body. The film wasnt one he recognized, a cartoon about animals that solved crimes or something along those lines. He hadnt fully processed the film since his mind had a great deal other things to consider already. He looked over to Ken, who wasnt staring at the screen. You alright, buddy? Evan asked. Ken said, Bad guys. Hurt He stopped when his eyes watered. Evan had to look away to prevent himself from crying also. It was his friend theyd hurt. His brother theyd tortured. It took a special kind of evil to treat someone as harmless as Ken that way. He turned back to Ken and rubbed his back. Ken calmed. Thank you for saving me. Yeah, uh, yeah bro I had to. Evan wished he had been better at words. Ken smiled and whispered, Movie. Evan whispered back, Right. Ken returned his focus to the screen, but Evan stayed in a mental limbo state. A lot had happened. Much of it he was unproud of. For him, itd been worth the price to be with his family again. But He couldnt help but ponder the sacrifices of others. It was doubtful theyd agree about the worth of their sacrifice. Dozens of enforcers, a handful of rebels, all for two random afflicted and a defected governor. Luna Hed traded her life for Kens. What kind of hero did that? Whose life would be traded to get hers back? Vihn strolled over to them. Howdy, Capn. Blink waved to him. Hey, he replied. Then he addressed Evan, Can I talk to you for a moment, kid? Sure. Evan joined Vihn a little way from his friends. Whats up? Vihn leaned against a crate and folded his arms. A lot has happened since I trained with you. How are your powers? Are you managing the drawback? For the most part, Evan noticed hed been getting better at controlling his powers and being able to keep from passing out as much. I think Ive gotten the hang of it. Good. Seems like you do better in life-or-death situations. He looked off to the side. What else was on his mind? Whats wrong? Evan asked. Vihn sighed. Youre dad. Hes swapped from leading Monolith Industries and the East to working with rebels, just like that? It doesnt add up. This was the last conversation Evan wanted to have. Hes only wanted to protect me. It makes sense. The Federation has always been out to hurt our family, and now he has the chance to get back at them. Maybe. I hope so, but Vihn faced Evan. The people you trust the most do the most damage. Just, dont let down your guard until its all over. That was the second time someone had warned him about his father. Evan didnt want to be a fool and dismiss what Vihn was saying, it was wisdom, but he wanted to believe in his father so much more. Ok. Ill stay focused, Evan said. Vihn nodded. Alright. Were going to be leaving first thing tomorrow morning. Make sure the others know. As Vihn walked away, Evan found himself too lethargic to return to his friends just yet. Blink appeared to have noticed and came to Evan while he leaned over the guard railing. Whats up? She slid next to him. I dont know Its that none of this seems to have been as perfect as I thought itd be. He pulled away from the bars. I think I need some more time to process it all. Blink rested her chin on her arms. Yeah, I gotcha. Take whatever time you need. Im here whenever. Thanks- Evan? came a voice behind him. It was one of Andreas guards. Yes? The guard waved. The Ark would like to see you. Evan massaged his neck. Seems like everyone wants to talk to me tonight. Go ahead, Blink said. Why should he? Hed fought this hard to get his friend back, and his father. They were together, and now these people, who hardly knew him, wanted to tell him what to think and do. But that was part of the deal, wasnt it? Help them, they help him? Or was it satisfied now that his father was on their side? It was a mess. One he was sure could wait until tomorrow. He needed to take his mind off it all. Nah, Im good. Ill talk to her another time. Evan smiled and offered Blink his arm. Would you like to go for a walk? She smiled. Of course. She reached with her gloved hand. It didnt part and was stiff to hold, but it had her warmth all together. They walked beside the railing, round the terrace that might take a thousand or so steps to traverse, all the while the animal movie played on. How is it? Evan asked, referring to her hand. She turned it side to side, still resting in his elbow. You know, I actually forgot that anything was different about it, if Im honest. Hey, you want to hear a gross theory of mine? Evan scrunched his face up but was curious all the same. Ok? She tugged gently on his arm, he had to hunch slightly to meet her request. She didnt whisper, but she did speak in a way that he knew her voice was meant for his ears alone. See, she started, some form of mischievous theory brewing on her tongue, when I teleport, I am really just moving my molecules from one place to another one that I am thinking about really hard. Sure, he agreed, though not actually knowing how her powers worked scientifically. So, I choose what comes with me. But sometimes its hard to, like, get all the tiny freaking bits to come with. So, my theory is that C what if, when I had that wonky teleport, my hand molecules got left behind? Oh. Yeah, so theres, like, a flappy bunch of my skin in the shape of my hand just laying out there somewhere in the city. Ugh, thats Evan tried to picture it. Man, like Blink stopped, wide eyed. Like a snakeskin. You know when they molt? Ewww, haha! His body shook with the imagery, and he laughed with her. There happened to be a snake character in the movie as she brought this up. They continued with their stroll. It was cold that night, but not the kind that made for an uncomfortable evening. More so the type of cold that was revitalizing and drew people closer together. Support the creativity of authors by visiting the original site for this novel and more. Alright, Blink said. You are trapped on an island, and only get to bring one thing with you, what is it? Evan had to think about it, not the most unique question hed heard, but not one hed really put much thought into. What was the one thing he found most valuable? Actually! she exclaimed. Sorry, no, better question if you dont mind. I mean, I assume it was probably music C Thats what I was gonna say, anyway. But, sorry, this new question, ok? Ok? Evan giggled. If you could combine two animals, ok? Two animals, but one is a land animal and the other is a sea animal. What would they be, and why? Oh, and it cant be something that already exists like a sea turtle or platypus C distinctly land and sea. Evan tried to cycle through his limited perspective of animals. So, no birds then? Theyre, like, air yeah? She hemmed and hawed. Ok, birds can count as a land animal. No more questions. You got this, dude. He rolled his head trying to think something up. Maybe, a bird and a shark? Huh. Like a great white with two big eagle wings? Or a bunch of little raven wings? Or a sand shark with hummingbird wings? Lets say great white and eagle wings. Then its like the ultimate predator. She smiled, and her eyebrows pinched as if trying to fathom the monstrosity something like that would be. The light of the screen and fires glistened in her eyes like dozens of stars dancing. She said, Thats great, Evan. I like it. Thanks! Youre turn. She nodded very seriously. A cow, and a goldfish. Cow and goldfish? Evan asked in a high octave, not hiding how weird he thought the idea was. Mhmm. Imagine how funny itd be to see that. Well, is it a cow sized goldfish, or a goldfish sized cow? She stopped walking and stared hard at the floor. Evan tried hard not to laugh, doing his best to play along with her sudden seriousness. Finally, she turned slowly to him and said, A tiny cow with goldfish fins and tail. Thats adorable. She smooshed her fingers, half of them gloved, together in front of her face. So small! Evan broke into laughter with her. It felt like his cheeks would explode. Man, thats a perfect question. Blink sighed and flipped her hair. Thank you, darling. She walked away from Evan and leaned over the guardrail. He couldnt be away from her that long, and joined her immediately, though he tried to play it off as confident and easy. They had such peace down there. It was like the war didnt exist and that no one was dying. It was just this city, these thousands of people wrapped in blankets and each others arms, watching a family cartoon that was made decades before the world had become what it was. A world like this could exist, and it was his. More so, it was his to share with people like his father, and his best friend, and someone like Blink. My question next, Evan said. Sure. I kind of asked this before, and I really want to understand you thought on this. How does all of this really work? She looked at him quizzically. He gestured to the whole base. This. I mean, Ive asked a dozen times C I still dont fathom it. Thousands of people, many of them Afflicted, all from different lives. How do they all live here in peace? Order is an agreement. Huh? She shrugged. Its something pops says. If people want to live, they must work together. The city works because everyone whos come here knows the world is a world of chaos, and here they choose to live in order. We protect ourselves, and each other. We are the city. He thought upon her words. They survived merely through cooperation. Their diversity strengthened them, it didnt weaken them; and they welcomed and embraced each other as brothers and sisters, no matter their past, their gifts, their cultures. They were humanity. They were beautiful. Ok, she said. What about your jacket? Why an upside-down Federation moon? He tugged on the sleeve to see what she was talking about. He had almost forgotten it was there. Oh, well. It was an accident. My dad had an old servant sew it in, but she liked to sneak some whiskey when he wasnt looking. Anyway, I stuck with it because it made me feel rebellious, like I had some sort of control over the world around me. Its stupid, I know. She shook her head. No, I think its cool. Its you, and I like you. Ah Yeah. I like you, he fumbled with the words. Im glad we have this, Evan. I dont meet a lot of people who dont get annoyed by me. She traced circles in the railing with her good finger. What? Why? She shrugged. Sometimes they think Im immature, or too young, or something. Its whatever. But I dont want to lose this C you C I mean. I dont want to lose this either, he told her. She looked back to him, and he was already looking at her. She tilted her head. What are you thinking? His heart pumped hard as he realized exactly what he was thinking. He didnt want to pull away, and he was scared to tell her the truth, but worse was to freeze and do nothing. She slid her hand closer to his, an open question? Should they stay friends? If they moved forward, what could happen? Would they lose that friendship? Would they forgive each other? Was it worth the risk? Did it have to happen? He wanted it to happen. But Blink. Theres one more question I have. He gulped. He could see the defenses rising in her eyes, but she didnt pull away. He pressed on, wanting truth to guide him beyond anything else. Its something thats stuck with me ever since you snuck out with me my first few nights here. Why me? Like Why an awkward, brooding, incompetent man like me? I mean, theres hundreds of other guys here. Youre amazing, and you choose the one guy who cant even make eye contact with you without freaking out? Blink tightened her hand around Evans, but drooped her head to the guard railing, chewing on her inner cheek. He leaned down to her level. On the big screen, a cat chased after a group of mice, bashing into things as they made their escape. She spoke softly. I didnt choose you. Not at first. Her words were a knife tracing his heart, and he feared that itd cut into the flesh. He pressed her hand firmly, tenderly, readying himself for the strike. Vihn had asked me to get to know you. Andrea asked me to help you feel comfortable. I mean, its not that I wasnt curious about you for myself, though. I tend to get myself in trouble for putting my nose into other peoples business generally. She looked at Evan with timid eyes. She was told to get close to me. Did she manipulate me? Were these eyes those smiles tools to disarm me? Was she disarming me now? Evan looked away from her, but still held on to her hand. He didnt want to let go. He didnt want to let go. He didnt want to let go. You were trying to get me to join the rebels willingly, to trust you. He should be angry. He should refuse to be near her, but he couldnt C he didnt want to let go. He turned his face to her partially, just to see what her reaction would be. She dropped the timidness and replaced it with an all too real sense of concern; her mouth, and eyes painfully reactive to him. Evan I I did. I did. I dont want to lie to you. I was trying to get you to trust us. But I also genuinely hoped youd want to. That youd choose to. He rubbed his eyes with his free hand, tempted to drop his arm where her fingers clutched, those warm fingers, where the rest of him felt cold. He retracted his hands to his pockets and twisted his ID in circles. How do I know that any of this was my choice? How do I know that any of these ideas were my own? Man, you have no idea, do you? She said, firm, but somehow warm. What do you mean? Evan you convicted me of something in myself. You dont know about the dark side of me, the part that wants to hurt people. I want to hurt people every day, every time I get out of bed, I think about how I can hurt the people who hurt me, who hurt my brother. She exhaled uneasily. Evan found his full attention on her again. It was just an assignment at first, but you reminded me that theres a purpose to all of this beyond rebels vs soldiers. Yeah, the government is a big freaking problem, and it pits all of us little people against each other. Were just grinding into each other and dying, all to protect their agenda. And still, beyond all of that, you reminded me of why I joined the Blood Red Army in the first place. Your love for your brother. Your genuine, selfless, often reckless love for your family. Thats who I was once, and thats who Ive started to become again. Youre my family now, Evan. I would do any number of stupid things to protect you, because you reminded me that the reason we fight is for love, not for hate. They were in each others close embrace now; Evan hadnt even noticed how hed gotten closer to her with each word. Was it so true? Duty turned into genuine love. It hadnt been something that hed wandered into, itd been something they worked for. Itd taken serious contemplation on both ends. But thats what made it genuine love and not just attraction, wasnt it? The intentional, honest, pursuit of understanding one another and supporting each other. He accepted it. Im sorry, Evan. Please forgive me, she said as she bit back the forming of tears in her eyes. He hugged her tightly, casting out the coldness of the night, summoning the warmth of two vulnerable souls together. Its ok. Were family now. Youve made me feel wanted. Youve made me feel capable. You could not trust me, and I could not trust you. The rebellion is what mattered. Things have changed now, and if anyone understands that the past is not the present, its me. Lets stick together, you and me, our siblings, and all. God brought us together for a reason, and I believe its to make us all better people, and to save as many of the hopeless as we can. A tear escaped her eye. Oh, geeze. She chuckled as she wiped it. Evan chuckled with her. Ape, together, strong? It was a movie reference she had made at one point, about smart apes taking over the world together or something like that. She started laughing, almost braying like a horse. Oh, it hurts, oh that hurts. She said grabbing her stomach. Was that cheesy? He said, laughing with her. Yes! I love it! They laughed together, while the city cheered at the rolling credits of an ending to the cartoon that the two them had been too busy to notice. ***** The city had just begun to stir for the morning when the crew loaded Ad Astra with ample supplies and gear for their trip. Evan dropped the last box into place and stepped onto the loading docks. Father was there waiting for him. Evan walked over and gave him a hug. His dad asked. Are you sure you want to take this mission on? Yeah, Dad. If it proves youre on our side and helps us get back to a normal life, then Im all for it. He nodded, and patted Evans shoulders. Your mom would be proud. You know that, right? Yeah, I know. Thanks. Alright, be safe. Im here, but Ill meet you again soon. Dont do anything risky. Evan took his fathers words and held on to them. Dont worry. No more risks. Good. We just got our family together, we dont want to lose it again, right? Right. Though, that last part weighed on him. When he fought with the rebels before, he had nothing to lose, but now between Blink, Ken, and his father, he had everything to lose. None of it was worth sacrificing. So, as he waved goodbye and boarded the ship, he resolved in his mind that after this mission, the war was over for him. Hed go home, and hed stay home. 28: "Dogma Isle" Shut up, kid, Ken said in Vihns voice. The rest of the crew chuckled, and not even Vihn could bite back a grin. Ken said something else in Vihns voice. Dont talk to me, Im brooding. The rest of the crew held wide eyed bewilderment as they waited for Vihns response. The leader snarled at first, but then relented into a full smile and wringing of his head. You got me, thats good. The crew erupted in cheers for Kens power. Evan sat next to him on one of Ad Astras benches. This was the first time hed get to share this experience with so many other people, and it was fantastic. No one out to beat him, arrest him, or kill him. Evan saw it in Kens eyes too, that same sense of belonging as the others pat him on the back and said words of encouragement instead of death threats. Rowic, who had set the ship to autopilot, said, Hey, try Ny. Nyla looked at Rowic slowly, her tatted muscles flexing in response to the use of her name. Oral! Ken yelled in Nylas voice. The crew laughed; Ny included. Ok, try Cranston, she said. The Southerner folded his arms and sat straight up. Ken looked around the air, as if trying to find something there. Cranston hadnt talked to him much, so perhaps he was trying to remember what Cranston sounded like. Daniel swatted at Cranston, Yo, say something Cran-man. Maybe he hasnt heard your voice yet. Cranston cleared his throat. Alright- Alright. Howdy, howdy alright, said Ken as if he were a radio dial tuning to the right frequency. Cranston bit his tongue. Happy flying, Ace! Hah, hah! Ken said, his mannerisms his own, but his voice a perfect recreation of Cranstons timber. Daniels whole body rolled. What the heck, bro? Cranston chuckled. Howd he hear that? He wasnt even there when Cranston said that! Daniel protested. Evan shrugged. I might have told him about the conversation. Vihn said, He can say things in someones voice without hearing them say it? Ken smiled and nodded. Yes. Yeah, Evan added, thats how the Feds were able to put out those propaganda videos of me and my dad. He knew our voices better than anyone. Rowic crooked his head. Untraceable like and AI, but a lot of extra steps, if you ask me. Vihn said, When was the last time the Feds did something practical? Too bloated and self-absorbed to be humane. Odd question, Daniel chimed in, but whats your drawback, Kenny? Ken looked to Evan with confusion. They hadnt heard of that until Evan had met the rebels. Evan tried to think back to every time Ken had used his powers, but hed never shown a drawback in the way the others had when using their powers. Maybe, its, you know Daniel pointed to his throat, and then his head and twirled his finger. Come on, thats not cool, Rowic said. Daniel threw his hands up. Yikes, sorry, my mistake! Evan didnt really know how to react to that, mostly caught off-guard by the idea. Ken had been like Ken since Evan had met him, so it couldnt be his drawback Though, he had to admit he didnt really know how the science worked when it came down to it. So, what did he know? He observed Ken to see if the suggestion had hurt him. Ken simply said. Im happy. I like me. Man, youre the coolest, brother. Evan thought. Blink, who was sitting next to them, nodded. Yeah, screw you, Daniel! She threw a ration bar at him. The casual man blocked it with a karate chop and ran to the cockpit for cover. The crew laughed some more, and Evan was happy to see how theyd all supported his friend so eagerly. Approaching destination. Vihn cracked his neck. Sounds like its time. Get your stuff together. The team readied their gear. Ad Astra landed under the cover of trees. Evan, Ken, Blink, Twitch, Vihn, Nyla, and Cranston made their way out into the morning air, while Rowic and Daniel stayed behind to manage the ship in case they needed it. The mission team walked on until they came upon a boarding station for a Monolith tram route, very similar to the one back at Hazard Station and the Academy. They waited until they were the last to board, and then Vihn initiated a command on his wrist computer. The tram scanning system welcomed each of the team members onto the train without saying their names. It was strange to step foot on to a train again, let alone one headed for Dogma Isle. Hopefully Evan would make it to his destination this time instead of being kidnapped. Or perhaps hed run into a rebel-rebel group made of lizard people who hated people-people. Somehow, that thought didnt seem too crazy after everything hed been through. The team all wore casual street clothes with their black mission gear hidden underneath. Evan, again, had to leave his jacket behind. Funny how now itd become a recognizable part of who he was, and a bullseye if he were to be caught wearing it. He used to have to hide the part of him that was Afflicted, but now he had to hide the part of him that was the governors son. They spread out and sat in different parts of the tram. Evan was wary of sitting by himself or next to strangers based on prior experience. Despite what Vihn had advised, Evan joined Ken in the back of the cart; he wasnt going to risk being separated again. Blink was the next closest teammate to them a couple of rows upward to the left. Twitch sat a few rows further than that. The only other teammate in their cart was Cranston at the front, partially into the aisle so that the rest of them could see him. That left Vihn and Nyla in the cart ahead of them. The capital came into focus as the tram sped along the coast of the New York ghetto. The ghetto was nothing particularly special. Its skyscrapers had all collapsed from war and was a city dedicated solely to the lower class and industrial workers whod been given the impossible task of clearing out the rubble. A shanty town of millions. Out there, at the edge of New Yorks discarded bones, was an island constructed of metal. It was made of towering, slanted walls that stretched out of the shimmering ocean, and skyscrapers that continued into the clouds. Dogma Isle had four main bridges that extended out from its structure toward the closest edge of the New York Bight, the body of water between the old city and the Atlantic. If you encounter this tale on Amazon, note that it''s taken without the author''s consent. Report it. Long rows of car traffic lined the roads that led to checkpoints. Were almost there, Vihn said over the comm channel. Bouncing. Ken pointed to Evans leg. He stopped bouncing it, but the nervous energy diverted to Evans pocketed ID. Just the one, now. He grinned at the thought. Hed traded Kens ID for the real person after all. Clouds above parted in splotches, revealing the setting Sun. Shafts of light glistened over the gentle waves of the ocean. Several patrol boats circled the water. Giant blue banners scaled the citys walls. Large banners hung down of the president uplifting the city on his back, like Atlas C with large words that read, Fifteenth Annual Unification Day! Unification Day, the official end to the class rebellions, and the start of the Purifier Initiative nearly a decade later. The Federation offered training to any citizen willing to kill Afflicted, though it was said that barely a single percent of applicants ever made it to purifier status. The tram ran over a bridge and snaked around the city walls until it slowed down to a stop in front of a mammoth-sized gate. Attention passengers, please prepare identification to be scanned, the trains voice said. Evan readied his wrist computer and flashed it readily at the drone when it faced him. Guy Faux, A-3417. Identity confirmed. Then the drone continued to Ken and then left. Shortly after, the gate opened and allowed the tram to continue into the city. Evan had finally made it home a little late. Though, at this point part of him hoped that he would never return. Evan caught Twitchs eye. The twin brought his hands to his chest and took a deep breath. Evan mimicked him and received a thumbs up. The city was the same, yet different. It was like revisiting a dream. Immense structures, towering business complexes, and housing facilities that touched the atmosphere. Sky crafts toured the spaces in between the titanic buildings. Shipping freighters docked in square systems above hordes of shops and markets. Automated traffic lights shined across the streets. Vendors peddled rich meats, trinkets, and clothes to passing pedestrians. Several carts sported Federation propaganda posters that ranged from Get Vaccinated, to Think You Have What It Takes to Join the Purifiers? The air was stiff as sweating crowds stumbled across the sidewalks. Mist vented from heaters and exhaust ports in the ground, periodically breaking up the image. The street level was foreign to Evan. He usually passed over the city in an airship. All these people looked like ants from above, but now they were more like an ocean. The tram cart became a cage as it made its final stop. The crew left the tram into the sea of pedestrians. We gotta get out of this crowd, came Nylas voice. Vihn chopped the air above him, indicating an alleyway nearby. Evan re-grouped with the team as people streamed by. Can you hear us, Rowic? Vihn cupped his hands over his ears. Yes, sir. Mild interference, but I read you. Vihn dropped his hands and addressed the group. Based on the Governors intel, we should find Shwoods office in the upper district, shouldnt take more than a couple of hours. Dont talk to anyone. If we run into Feds, scatter. Everyone should have rendezvous points mapped out in your computers. Tram, slums, sewers C that sound about right? Cranston asked. Vihn nodded. City rats. Lets move. The team continued to Brutus Brushwoods office. The streets were filled with large screens of President Neros face giving speeches. There were also hundreds of banners and decorations for the Unification Day celebration. Holograms pranced from emitters on almost every building, most of them were of the Federation news, yet more were targeted propaganda of the same old anti-Afflicted, pro-state rhetoric Evan had seen a thousand times. Despite the floods of pedestrians, the Feds still managed to stick out with patrols of soldiers dotting every other street corner, along with their drones, fences, gun turrets, and tanks. A loop of low chants and hums waded above the streets from news barges. Evan hadnt realized how constant the sound was here, an oppressive overture that sapped his thoughts and emotions. He was used to living high in the towers amongst the wealthy, where the buildings were heavily soundproofed. The team cut through the crowds, finally arriving at their destination. This building stood a dwarf in comparison to the others; its roof visible below the overcast sky. A giant rotating cube glistened upon its exterior. Who was this guy? Father had claimed Shwood to be a lifelong ally, but Evan wondered what kind of man hed be. A man who had managed to keep Evan and Kens identity secret for most of their lives, and who managed to stay hidden himself. Red carpeting ran along the lobby floor, flanked by brass walls, and encased with mirrored ceiling. Marbled tiling outlined every corner of the expansive room, where heavily suited security weaved about. At the end of the lobby awaited a receptionist behind a black counter. Vihn glanced at the team before leading them forward to the receptionist. Were here for Brutus Brushwood. Uh, Shwood? he said. The receptionist stared back blankly. One moment. He looked at his computer, then nodded as if someone had said something back to him. Yes, they are here. Yes. Evangelos. The use of his real name unsettled Evan. Either Brushwood was foolish, or too bold to worry about others hearing Evans name. He traded looks with the others, who responded with equally uncertain expressions. A brawny man in a suit and tie wheeled his way to the group. The receptionist addressed him. This is Tony, Mr. Brushwoods head of security. Youll be escorted to your private rooms where youll wait to meet with him. The man extended his arm in the direction of elevators. His hand had more hair on the back of it than his head. If youll follow me. Tony led them into the elevator. There were no buttons inside, just a display of floor numbers on a small screen that flickered 100 when the doors closed. Nyla whispered, Sheesh, do we really trust this? Evan didnt know, but it was too late to turn back. Dont worry, Blink whispered, Ill keep you safe. Nyla didnt seem too pleased with that comment. They all joined Tony in the elevator and waited for its ascent to finish. Hey. Vihn nudged Evan. Huh? he responded. Im sorry. Sorry? What was Vihn talking about? Evan stewed in his un-comfortability. The old stranger continued, I know you didnt ask for any of this, and I was the one who brought you into it. Evan contemplated what would be an appropriate response. All the others were with them. After everything that had happened so far, he didnt know if he still held on to that anger he had had toward Vihn. It wasnt like his life was great before the Blood Red Army. In the end, hed lost nothing, and gained purpose. So, in a weird way, Vihn had helped him. The elevator opened before he could think of a response. In front of them was a small corridor where another assistant waited. Hello, welcome to Monolith Corporations Obsidian branch. Please enjoy your stay, curtesy of Mr. Brushwood. Her hands glided across a suspended tablet. The doors closed, followed by a swoosh from behind the team. They turned around to a central living room that was a half-circle, with four doors spaced out along a curved wall. A giant screen was trenched in between the doors, which projected moving images of an island coast of rippling waters and swaying palm trees. At the center of the room was a circle of couches around a black table. Please, Tony waved his hand. Mr. Brushwood will be here soon. If you need anything, simply ask. Evan joined the others in a timid exit of the elevator into the quarters. As soon as they were off the elevator, it spun around with Tony still in it and was replaced by a white wall that matched the rest of the interior. No one in the group moved. Think hes watching us like some sort of creep? Blink asked. She broke from the formation, investigating the corners of the room. Twitchs eyes darted around at the ceiling. Shwood was probably watching them, waiting for them to use their powers or give away a secret, or something. Evan grew less sure of his fathers plan. He asked Vihn, We should keep quiet, right? Vihn nodded. Hey, Ny. How are you doing? She regarded him with a raised eyebrow. Meaning? You know He flicked his fingers out. Nyla picked up a white cloth threaded with golden silk and blew her nose into it. Im fine. The team eventually seated themselves amongst the couches after an unnerving amount of time had passed. Evan forgot what waiting felt like, almost unnatural to endure now. Chill bro, Blink told Twitch who signed impatiently. We wont have to wait too long. But that turned out to be quite the understatement. It was half-past eight at night before they heard anything. They had wandered around the rooms, which were marble white with onyx black furniture and gold trimmings, each with a wall that was a window that could double as a simulated biome of preference. Nyla had grown the most impatient, which was typical for her, except her impatience was because her power was building up. She couldnt release it, and it was clear that if she didnt soon, she was going to start getting sick. But the team refused to use any of their powers until they knew who Shwood really was, certain his plan was to get footage of them using their powers with what they were sure were hidden cameras. Finally, a voice came over a speaker. Mr. Brushwood is ready to see you now. Please join him in the dining hall. The back wall spun around, revealing the elevator box again. The team loaded into it. The wall closed behind them, and then opened to a glass table that stretched down a wide dining hall, fit for thirty or more people. Bowls of salad and bread were set out in front of the chairs, of which were black twisting things that the team sat themselves into. Evan shifted around on the coarse material. Is this supposed to be a chair or modern art? Cranston asked, inspecting the thing. Thats exactly what I keep asking my staff. A voice came from a door to the left of the table. It was a man; his suit was black with gold trims. He brushed his hair back, and a wide grin split across his lips. Pardon me. Ehem. Ive lost track of time I suppose. Call me, Shwood. Except that this man couldnt be Brutus Brushwood, because the man standing there was Charlie Crain, the Governors partner whod taken over Monolith Industries. The man who betrayed them. 29: "Dealing With Snakes" Evan jumped from his chair. Its Charlie Crain. Ken said, Bad guy, in charge of bad place. Blink, and Twitch stood up with Evan. Shwood raised his hands, covered in black gloves. Woah, hey. Theres, heh, definitely a broad misunderstanding here. And I didnt make that bad place youre talking about, kiddo. Ken closed his eyes and spoke in Shwoods voice. Woah, hey. Theres, heh, definitely a broad misunderstanding here. The businessman cleared his throat and opened his mouth to speak, but was interrupted by Kens mimicry again, though he sounded like he was talking from behind a wall. Hows our golden goose doing? Another voice replied, The trials have been remarkable, we will be able to recreate any dialogue we need, with the right stimulus. Good, said Shwoods mimicked voice again, the little weirdo will keep the general populace dumb while we figure out what the heck to do about our Governor situation. Ken opened his eyes and stared at Shwood, who pursed his lips. The other members of Phoenix One stood up from their chairs. This was the guy whod hurt Evans brother. This man had tortured him and manipulated his powers to make propaganda with deepfakes of Evan and his father. Energy coursed through Evans fingers. Shwood fanned himself with his hand. Whew! Talk about tension, right? Please, remain seated, Ill be more than happy to clear the potentially flammable air. Explain whats going on, Evan demanded. Shwood squinted at him. Thats what I just said, kiddo. Didnt I? He strolled around the table to the head chair. The others followed him with their eyes. You know, Evan, Shwood continued, Im sorry. Your pops warned me that you might get startled by seeing me and I didnt believe him because I said you were a rational young adult. But I realize that this may all be rather confusing. He sat down at his chair and pulled off his black gloves. Look, go ahead and sit. Eat! I promise I didnt poison the food or anything. Hah! No one showed amusement. Well, dont mind if I start. The days are long for someone in my field of work. He began eating the salad in front of him with a gilded fork. Evan refused to sit. What do you want from us? Shwood sighed. Ill get to that. Look, I hadnt planned on drawing out this conversation long, theres a lot of things to get done. To be honest, I thought youd trust your dad on this. It was his idea that you come see me anyway, am I right? Agh, I see youre not going to budge on my words alone, so Ill budge a bit. Here, look. A projection appeared above the table, a set of purifier armor. Paneling opened around it, revealing black ribbing across its frame. Oooh! Shwood said while chewing, whats this? Secret blueprints for new purifier armor modifications? What? Good old Brutus Brushwood is willing to give away Federation secrets to rebels and commit high treason? Now, why would a true friend of the state do something like that? Well, if only his guests would sit down and eat the bountiful meal in front of them, maybe hed tell them. Evan eased to his seat. The others followed suit. Given the chance, he might make an exception to his pacifist run for this guy. Ho, ho. Shwood grinned. Listen, Id be happy to console your noggins, but lets break bread together first. Im sure you could use something more kosher than MREs and sewer critters, yes? He waved his hand, and a squad of servants entered the hall with plates of roast, soups, greens, and cider that they lay across the table. Evan gripped his stomach. The food drew him in. It could easily be poison. This was all too easy. How do you know so much about me? Shwood laughed uncomfortably. I dont want to- Unauthorized reproduction: this story has been taken without approval. Report sightings. Spoil it? Spoil it. Evan didnt know where his abrasiveness came from, but he had to stand firm because he refused to be played around with. Shwood twisted his lips as if biting into a sour lemon. Interesting that our dear Governor was able to keep your identity a secret for so long, something thatd be fairly hard for any other politician to pull off alone. I know you helped him keep my identity a secret, so what? Look, kid C Evan, Vihn corrected. Shwood gave a wry grin and chuckled. Evan. I promise I''ll lay out this whole tale. But I''d prefer to do so over our warm meal, while its warm. Evan nodded. Figure out who he is, and all the answers, all of them. Great, Shwood said. Now, feel free to try the cider, its my favorite. I call it the Crain Concoction. Vihn smelled it and took a sip. He smacked his tongue. This tastes like watered down beer. Shwood frowned. Curse it. He snapped to a servant. Tell Jacob to fix that. The servant left, and the party continued their meal. At first, the team was hesitant, but it didnt take long for them to give into the fresh tastes of food and rare-cooked goose. Shwood swallowed the last bite of his meal and wiped the grease from his lips with small dabs of a cloth napkin, then cleared his throat. Ok. I am now open to questions. I have my own things to say, but I feel that theres a barrier between us. So, ask me anything. Ill answer any questions you have until youve ran out, and then Ill tell you my plan. The rebels turned to each other, then back to Shwood. Blink asked. Whats with the conman routine? Shwood jerked his head back. Whats with your preppy schoolgirl smile? It works, right? Whats with the name? Nyla asked. You like tattoos, I like alliteration - consistency. Why should we trust you? Cranston asked. Ill explain in my plan. What do you want from us? Evan asked. Again, in my plan. What did you do for my father? Shwood grinned again and brushed his hair. Your father and I have always been distant-close friends. I did donate your crib when you were born. I re-forged your birth certificate, test records, and made sure no one found out about your disposition. In return, our Easter Governor helped me secure a position on Monoliths council of honest civil servants. Blink whispered. Did he just say, Easter, instead of East-ern? Evan asked. What do you want with us? To be honest, I want you. But I figured the rest of the rebels wouldnt like giving up their prized hostage. Shwood cracked open a prawn from an appetizer dish and dipped it into a bowl of orange broth. The answer took Evan back. Prized hostage? Hes not a hostage, Easter boy, hes family, Blink defended. Shwood squinted at her. Really hoped youd pass over that Easter slip, but youre really making it a thing now arent cha? Evan became resolved again. Theyre the family I chose. Your poor mother. The conman shrugged. Any who, guess its time to explain my plan. He snapped, and the servants came and took the left-over food and plates away. So, Ill start with the big question. People keep calling me Brutus Brushwood, but for the keen observers amongst you, Im also the guy the news addresses as Charlie Crain. What the heck is going on? Well, its all been a part of your dads plan, Evan. Smart guy as he is, he knew that at some point you might get into such hot water that hed end up in jail or lose his business. So, we manipulated the system so that in the event he was right, Mr. Crain would be in the right position to take over Monolith. Ive been on your side the whole time; you just didnt know it. Did that mean having to pretend I was ok with your friend being tortured? Yes. Did I enjoy it? No. But, did I prevent your father from being executed and your friend from being dissected to bits? Yes. A hundred times, yes. Whats your plan, then? Vihn asked. Shwood answered, Were presented with a peculiar opportunity as rebels and conmen, one that if taken advantage of, will allow us to take the Federation for our own. What do you mean? Alright, heres the deal. Youve been in hiding because of protein junkies like our good friend Joseph Krow. The purifier was projected above the table. Those black ribbings you see under his armor panels are a part of a new weapon system called, Purge Protocols. Shwood wiggled his fingers. When activated, he can clear a whole room in seconds. Evan scowled. Why would you design something like that if youre supposed to be helping us? More of an unfortunate coincidence and bad timing. Monolith is a military tech company first, and we have to eat somehow. You can hardly blame us for doing our job. Nyla jeered. Your stuff kills people. Afflicted kill people, too, dear, he corrected. Er, maam. He pivoted after Nyla gave him a death stare. Vihns eyes darkened. Get to the point before you see the salad in your stomach growing through your eyes. Shwood pursed his lips, and his eyes lost their cheer. Sheesh. Ok. Fine. And Ill try not to comment on how youre proving my point, while Im at it. Look, I dont really care how things go as long as I make money. Its the truth, I know what I am. Im not ashamed to be honest about that. The Governor has formed a new vendetta because of everything thats happened to Evan, and hes hired me to help him get rid his enemies. Guys, the Federation is cracking at the seams. Like Icarus, they flew too close to the Sun, and men like your father have deduced that a little persuasion is all we need to tip the balance of power out of the governments hands into our control. How are you supposed to do that? By giving you some insider knowledge on the purifiers and providing you safe room and board. Evan still wasnt convinced. If you want to help us fight purifiers, give us access to their on-board A.I. system. Shwood clucked his tongue. Would that I could, Junior. Those systems are way out of my hands. You understand, the Federation isnt completely inept. But I can track the purifiers for you so that the hunted might become the hunters, as it were. The projection lit up with a topographical map where blue dots blinked with faces and text. There he was, Joseph Krow, but where Evan couldnt tell before Shwood tittered on the table and the whole display evaporated. So, the businessman extended a hand, partners? 30: "Purified Truth" Evan sunk into his bed, which was nearly three times his size. The rest of the furniture in the private room was hidden flush into compartments. Across from him, his holographic glass wall flickered with imagery of a forest. Evan was sick of it and turned the projection off. Now, he saw the night city instead. There was something off about Shwood, that faulty smile. Would someone like that really side with rebels over the government? Something was wrong, very wrong. Yet, he couldnt bring himself to suspect his dad of being deceitful. Perhaps, he was the fool for not entertaining the notion. Evan slid out of bed. The cool carpet dispersed the ghosts in his head. He wandered to the window. The city slept, thanks to a mandatory curfew. Only a handful of ships hovered in between the tall buildings, all Federation allegiants. A barge lumbered across the sky in front of Evans room. It flashed the news upon a large billboard that it carried. He raised his hand to signal the automatic blinds to close but stopped when he realized the billboard was playing a fake news report of him and his father again. Large subtitles scrolled at the bottom of the screen in several languages, including English. The war is almost over, and well finally have peace. How could Evan ever trust Shwood after what hed done to Ken? Forcing him to make propaganda and videos that were nothing but lies. There was no peace within the Federation, only fear, and hate. It wasnt right. There had to be more to Shwood, or Charlie Crain, or Brutus C whatever his name was. Deception came easy to him. The news barge footage changed. Text scrolled across the bottom. The end times had come. The secret location of the Blood Red Army Alpha base has been discovered. The final assault on the Blood Red Army terrorist cell is underway. Evan couldnt pull his eyes away from the horror as an invasion force of hundreds of tanks and aircraft closed in on the mountains where the rebels base was hidden. There was more footage of fighting between Afflicted and enforcers. What shocked Evan the most, however, was an image of gallows where men and woman were hung, one of them Luna with the words Traitor written in white across her blue uniform. Evan ran out to the other bedrooms yelled, Wake up! We have to leave! The doors opened and lights came on, the crew sluggish. Whats going? Cranston said while stretching his back. The Feds are attacking Alpha, look! The crew sobered up as Evan sprinted back into his room to show them the report. They were aghast. Nyla shook her head. Nah, theres no way they know where they are Theyve come before, they always think were in the city and the mutants fight them off. The vehicles continued straight for the mountains. Blink pleaded, We have to warn them. Vihn set his brow. The Feds will track our signal if I do. What does it matter? They already know where the base is! Evan felt fury and fire in him as he saw the fighting, and Lunas body hanging there. Another ally killed, hanging there because of his failure, because of his disregard for others. Another dead because hed been too weak to save them. Vihn spoke over his wrist computer. Rowic, this is an emergency, an invasion force is coming for Alpha now. Get them out of there. Oh, god. Yeah, copy! The window flickered, and the barge, which seemed so real, turned into an image of Shwoods face C floating in what had clearly been a simulation of the city. What the Evan stumbled back. Woah. The image of Shwood remarked. Ill admit, I was kind of making things up as I went along, but Tony suggested this idea, and I have to admit C way more effective than what I was going to do. Vihn bared his teeth. What are you talking about? You guys are right; the Federation really has no freaking clue where the heck your Alpha base is. They had guesses, you know, because people die when they get close to the city. But man, in the mountains? Dont know how they missed that one. Doesnt matter. Now they know. Thanks for sending that transmission for me. Evan stuttered, But that video They were headed for Ah, yeah, CGI really has come a long way. Faces, environments, and whole armies C so real. I mean, AI stuff is something else C we almost lost that tech you know, when the internet went all Anyway. Yeah, none of that was actually happening - yet. So, thanks for that. I really have to thank Tony for the idea, so much better than mine. This was a trap, Vihn said. Shwood bobbed his head. Yes, but Well, I was telling the truth about some things, like how this whole thing was the Governors plan to defeat his enemies. What? Evan felt his chest tighten. Shoot. Tony told me not to start pontificating. Ah, it wont matter, Evan deserves an explanation, and an old friend is here to visit you anyway. Hes only here for the kid, so the rest of you are free to go! Five for the price of one, thats what I call a good deal. If you could just leave him there nicely, please and thank you. The sound of the elevator wall sliding away drew the team out into the living room. The wall pulled apart, revealing the form of an armored goliath waiting. Krow, Vihn muttered. Ive killed us all, Evan thought as the purifier raised his gauntlet at them. Grab on to each other! Blink yelled as she shoved Evan into the backs of his companions, and then they were taken up in twisting light. Everyone appeared within a dim tunnel. Sewage ran underneath their feet out of the tunnels mouth, into the ocean where spotlights of Fed patrol boats panned the rapidly darkened sky and waters. Blink collapsed with heavy breathing. All the color drained from her eyes, and her skin faded from her normal shade into a black scaley texture. Its happening again Its so much worse than the last time. Evan slid to her side. Vihn riffled through his coat, pulling out a flower vial. Evans every fear came tormenting him again, as this girl he undoubtedly cared for was decaying before his eyes. Come on girl, you can do this. Cranston took a knee by her. What was she thinking? She knew she couldnt transport us all at the same time! Nyla cursed. Twitch took his sisters corroding hand. Tears ran down his cheeks. Evan searched for a solution, anything. The air around his body heated up as his powers activated. Please, let me save her. He prayed. Vihn waved the others away. He placed the flower on her chest. Sprouts spilled from the leaf like veins, wrapping her torso in a weave of green. A bright surge of white luminescence spiked from the vines. This book is hosted on another platform. Read the official version and support the author''s work. Blinks chest expanded and contracted with the rhythm of the pulsing vines. But the corrosion merely teetered back and forth. Evan dropped to the opposite of Vihn and gripped Blinks other arm. What are you doing, kid? Vihn snapped. Your plants arent working, Evan snapped back. But my powers can. Vihn nodded. Repair, reconstruct. Evan pulled every image of Blink. Her clear skin, perfect smile, deep eyes. I can save her. Every lesson, every moment, flooded back through his mind. His moms face, years of accidents throughout his life, then the bullies pants, the toothbrush, the grass trap, the door, the rope, the bar wall, the Hazard Station soldiers, Krows face, the helicopter, the random flower in the ruins, the buckets of paint with Blink, soldiers, and guns, and prison doors, and everything just a mess of moments preparing him for this C preparing him to be the one in control. To save someone. To please save this one person. Like the back and forth of a current, the scales rippled away C faded back, was pushed back like death conquered - until finally Color refilled her face. The corrosion was battled away. Her eyes fell shut. Hed done it. Hed freaking done it. Hed used his powers to successfully do something other than disintegrate something and then fall unconscious, though his head buzzed in excruciating pain. Vihn fell to his side, drizzled with sweat. I''m impressed, Evan. But his eyes still cultivated their white glow. Thank you. Evan directed the compliment to both Vihn, and to the source of his prayers. His mind was just beyond the pull of seizure. He inhaled deeply to calm himself. But his body faltered regardless. Come on, dont pass out. Twitch flashed a thumbs up to Evan and smiled. Evan patted the twin on his shoulder. Then came a noise. A loud mechanical thrumming. Great, it reverberated deeper from within the sewer tunnel. Everyone turned to face the sound. Its time to go. Vihn pressed against his earpiece. Rowic, everythings fallen apart, were in one of the sewers, facing east. Help us out, here! Greater reverberation ran throughout the tunnel. Its big. Cranston pumped his shotgun. Nyla jumped further in front of the group. She raised her hands toward the inner tunnels. Heat distortions warped the area in front of her hands. The ceiling combusted ahead of her. Rocks and dust dispersed from the center of the falling rubble. It didnt matter. Sewage splashed several feet high against the tunnel walls as a blaze of white armor and fire thrust forward past the debris. The dust settled behind this great foe. The purifier. Red streaks of paint lined its exterior, and an additional plate of metal covered the helmets left eye. His head locked deadly in Phoenixs direction, the gaze of a predator. Joseph Krow had found them. Is it him? Vihns vision still entranced, probably only able to see the plants he created since hed pushed himself so hard to save Blink. Evan nodded. Its him. Vihn rose, muttering, How did he find us? Wheres Rowic? Cranston called back. Hes working on it. Vihn flung a vial out into the center of the tunnel. He grimaced. Come on kid, were going to have to hold him back. Evan pushed himself up to face the purifier, but his knees gave up on him, and he fell next to Vihn. No more hiding. Krows legs shrieked with shifting compartments. Cracks diverted into the concrete beneath his feet. The sound intensified rapidly, as light filled the inner parts of his armor. He lunged forward. Water blasted behind him from the propulsion of rocket boosters. Nyla threw her arms in the form of an x. A great gust of wind back drafted against the machine and ignited in a plume of fire. Smoke billowed off Krows armor. The purifiers fist barreled into Nyla. Her arms swung out with another blast as the gauntlet collided with it. She flew back against the tunnel wall and rolled into the river of sewage, her body still. Vihns muscles tightened in rage. The plant vial hed tossed erupted into a violent display of vines across the sewer. They lashed around Krows arm and yanked it down with a thrust of Vihns hands. A small flamethrower dropped from a panel in the other gauntlet. Vihn sent another array of vines around it, pulling both arms straight forward. Hydraulics hissed as Krow strained against the plants. Cranston dashed to Nyla while unleashing several volleys of gunfire at the beast. The pellets ricocheted off the armor into the water and concrete. Now, Evan! Vihn commanded. Evan ran to Vihns side and thrust out his hands. He pulled on every moment of pain and hatred from his mind. Flecks of metal stripped from the outer shell of the purifiers armor. Evan pushed deeper, picturing the hanging of Luna, her neck snapped. The torturing of Ken, his body broken. Remembering the death of Zachary, his head crushed. Evans veins rippled across his arms as he strained to rip apart the purifiers armor. But dozens of panels flung open across the suit, revealing black ribbing across his shoulders and chest. Joseph Krow uttered a single word, purge. Evan faded. His arms fell. Im too weak from healing Blink. Vihn screamed as he pulled every plant away from the purifier. Blinding radiance enveloped the room, everything raveled in whiteness. Evans sight blurred back. He splashed around in the water. Giant charcoaled hedges crumpled in front of all the rebels. Vihn must had used his plants to form walls around them. Vihn slumped down behind his own barrier. His waning eyes turned to Evan. Save them, kid. His wall splintered apart into thousands of burnt chips. Krow wrapped his large gauntlet around Vihns left arm. Crack! The beast tore the limb and flung Vihn back into the water. Evan cried out, shrill and callous, swearing, contorting in anguish. Krow let the severed arm fall into the rushing sewage, then again faced Evan. This is justice, Evangelos. For all the innocents your kind have harmed. He lunged at Evan, whose arms scrambled to shield his body. The purifiers momentum stopped. He dropped through the air, flat into the waters. Long coils of vines wrapped around his legs. Vihn still lived. He held himself just above the water. A weave of vines writhed from where his left arm had been and constricted the purifier. Joseph Krow pointed his gauntlet at Vihn. Another panel popped open on his rist to reveal a small gatling gun. The air hissed as an explosion from Nyla rocked Krow. His arm flung across the ceiling, sending bullets around the tunnel. Evan witnessed the arc of gunfire, flicking up in spurts of water, and then spraying blood. Who had it been? Who had been hit? Who? Who? Who? It was Ken. It was Ken who stumbled around the rippling water by the sewers edge. It was Ken, who had stood farthest from the fighting as he could. His hands lilted across his chest and stomach where blood trickled from dozens of bullet wounds. He waned, his mouth yawing without noise. Then, he collapsed into the rushing waters of the citys waste. Evans every hope crashed with Ken. He couldnt even hear his own voice screaming out in horror. Heads up! Cranston called out. Explosions collapsed the roof above Krow, burying him in falling debris. Water gushed from above, drowning the tunnel in a torrential downpour. Ad Astra hovered directly outside of the sewer; Rowic and Daniel silhouetted within the cockpit. Evan rolled over to Vihn and pulled his blinded mentor away from the rubble as Ad Astra sprayed heavy gunfire into the ceiling, entombing Krow within the sewer. The ship circled its back to the tunnel entrance so that the loading ramp descended to the team. Cranston and Twitch lifted Blink from the ground and rushed her into the airship, outrunning the sloshing waters that overflowed. Nyla ran over to Evan and helped carry Vihn. Vihn took hold of himself and dashed up the ramp with Nyla, while Evan turned back to find Ken. Evan! Vihn called out. Evan ignored the call as he splashed into the waters to grab his friend who was already being washed away. His hand reached out for Kens cold fingers cold fingers clutching an ID. Had he pulled it out while lying there? Why? It didnt matter. Evan tugged at his friend, but the waters were strong, and Evan was weak. He fought to hold on to his friend as the waters knocked them forth. Vines lashed out and grappled Evan, stopping him from going over, yet he still held on to his friend who was not so fortunate to be caught by Vihns plants. Let go! Evan cursed the old stranger. I have to save him! His friends body an anchor that threatened to drop them both into the harbor below. I cant get you both, Evan. I cant leave my friend! Hes gone, Evan. Its over. No! He couldnt give up; he couldnt abandon Ken again. If you dont let go, youll get us all killed! Feds are closing in, man, warned Daniel over the comms. Rowic said, Im sorry Evan, were out of time. No! Thats my friend! Thats my friend! Thats my brother! An uproarious alarm filled the cabin. Evan stared at Kens face, colorless, motionless, lifeless. Hes right Evan cursed himself as he let Kens fingers slip from his. Palm from palm. Digit from Digit. End from End. Ken was dead No! He thrust his other hand out and caught Kens dropping arm. The weight yanked him over the ramp. He couldnt let go. Not like this. Not after everything. Hands grabbed on to Evans legs. Let him go! Vihn cursed. Evan ignored it. He wouldnt let go; hed never abandon his friend again. He summoned strength from the deepest parts of his body. His muscles popped and tore. The hands on his legs pulled him back so that he was back on the ramp. Twitch joined him, and Cranston, and Nyla, reaching out to Kens lifeless form and reeling him back into the ship. Get us out of here! Vihn called to the cockpit and slammed a button that raised the ramp. The airship took to the air. The sudden momentum threw Evan against the wall, knocking the air from his lungs. He dragged his broken body to Ken who lay motionless on the floor, red spilling from giant holes, pooling underneath him, his eyes closed. Evan flinched in shock. He begged Vihn, You can heal him. Evan, I cant. Its too late. Vihn cradled his plant arm. This couldnt be how it ended; it couldnt be. Ken, please say something. Say something man. Anything. He shook his brother. Anger flooded him, desperation, a hollowing fear that carved out his heart and crushed it. His power came unwillingly, unwavering, seeping from his hands into Ken, whose skin wilted into dust. No, no, no. In a matter of moments, Ken was no more C his body, particles in the air, leaving behind nothing but that ID on the floor. Evan stared there at that empty space where there had once been his brother, just stared there, no thoughts, no words, no feelings. It was as if Ken had never been there. I killed my best friend. 31: "Hes Gone" Evan sat there for some time, just staring at his hands, these destroyers that always worked to undo him. But who was the true culprit? Krow pulled the trigger C mutilated Ken. Nyla had blasted Krow, diverted the gun away from Vihn. Shwood had lured them into the trap to begin with. But Evan had been the fool to let it happen. Then Shwoods words hung over him The Governors plan. But what could Charlie Crain say that could be trusted? Whose hand was the true killer? Evan would figure it out, and he would let the monster loose. Hed kill his enemy. ***** Evan brushed the matted hair from Blinks face. Her eyelids quivered as she slept. Evans body was empty, drained of strength. He rested the back of his head against Addys metal hull. Sunbeams caressed its circular windows, inviting warmth, while the crew was spread out inside the hollowed machine. Twitch placed a hand on Evans shoulder. It was a drop in the dry barrel that was Evans suffering heart. Kens death replayed over and over. Explosion. Bullets. Blood. Water. Explosion, bullets, blood, water. Explosion, bullets, blood-water. Blood. Water. Blood. Dust. Evan hated them. Krow, Shwood, himself How could this happen? How could he succeed and still fail? Then there was the fate of Alpha base. What destruction waited the crew? He hoped that his father was safe, and that hed have the answers. What would he do when he learned that Shwood betrayed them? Or was Evan still the fool to think his father wasnt a part of this plot? If his father was a part of this, then what was the point of it all? Rowics voice echoed over the speakers, Im not getting any feedback from Alpha, but I dont see any hostile signatures. What do you want us to do, Vihn? Vihn pulled himself up by a hanging strap with his last arm. Maybe its just radio silence so they dont draw any attention from the Feds. Drop us off outside, well take the lift down. Keep the ship prepped in case we need to make an escape. You got it. The ship descended to the outskirts of the city. Twitch signed to Evan, pointing to himself and then Blink. Yeah, thats ok buddy. Ill go with them. Evan didnt want to leave her side, but he owed Twitch time alone with his sister. Hopefully stepping outside would clear his head. The ramp lowered, allowing Evan and his team of Vihn and Rowic to continue forward, followed close by Cranston and Nyla. Daniel stayed with Blink and Twitch on the ship to keep it running while Rowic followed the ground team and ran scans from his tablet. Wrecks of Federation gunships and drones littered the earth. Lifeless bodies scattered the field; enforcer and rebel alike. The secret entrance was blown open, scorch marks spreading out across the rock. Rowic swiped his tablet. It displayed a three-dimensional model of the base, with five white silhouettes standing at the entrance in similar formation to Evan, Rowic, Vihn, Cranston, and Nyla. Another silhouette was shown to be deeper inside the facility, only one. One soul, out of everything this city had been. Evan whispered the revelation. No ones alive. That emptiness inside of him grew, and he held on to this feeling as fuel for when his time came to face the orchestrator of this all, when his time came to pull the trigger. Uh, Rowic refreshed the program. I dont know, Im getting weird interference. Nyla muttered something Evan couldnt understand, but the slack in her face said much about the dread she must have felt. Cranston asked, What do you think, captain? Could be a trap. Only one way to know for sure. Vihn continued forward through the cave entrance. The cave mouth was inlaid with chunks of rubble and a large pipe that trickled with water. Evan ignited a flashlight built into his wrist computer. The radiance burned against the darkness and dust C a ball of sinking hope. The lifts gone. Vihn pointed to the empty shaft. Well have to use the stairs. Their feet clicked against grated metal steps as they descended. Something dark smeared different parts of the wall. The stains glistened a sickly orange red as wrist lights passed over. Wheres the bodies? Evan asked. There was a tinge of positivity in Vihns voice. I dont think there are any. He pointed to a shell of enforcer armor; the blues darkened with splotches of red, which Evan could only assume was the result of an Afflicted melting someone alive. The stairs halted at a t-section; one path to the right, and one to the left. Evan, Vihn, and Rowic continued down the left path, while Nyla and Cranston decided to check the right. Vihn stepped onto a sidewalk, where a metal door stood alone amongst a concrete wall. Here we go. He punched a code into a small keypad and the door unlatched. Roaring water echoed over the hollow deafness of the facility. The team stepped through the door. They buckled at the horror before them. The great city of terraces glowed red from buttresses of fire that were spread throughout it. The river ran out in front of the team, bodies bobbing facedown its waters. Evan stumbled at the sight of the atrocity. His foot crunched on something as it stepped back. Underneath him was another corpse. He slipped his foot off instantly. The dead were scattered around the entire base, hanging from the terraces, sprawled over market tables, piled upon each other. A total massacre. Vihn swore and popped open one of his last three plant vials. The flower inside twisted with tendrils that took the place of his missing arm. Rowic snatched up a rifle that lay on a corpse next to him. Theyre all dead, Rowic gasped. Every one of them. Shut up, Vihn said. We need to find Andrea. There was only one light on the map that was not one of the Phoenix One members. It might have been Andrea. Though, Evan selfishly prayed it might be his father. Yet, it could have been anyone C a single soul lucky enough to be the last survivor of this carnage. This content has been misappropriated from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere. Evan crept behind the two rebels across the field of death into a corridor that led to the upper terraces. Other halls branched off on either side, with more lifeless vessels slumped in their narrow spaces. The team traveled across a long flight of stairs to an open terminal room with consoles and wiring that webbed about it. At the center of this room was a round table with a walkway and circling rails. Ceiling lights flickered and sparked above. The team strode around the rafters toward a concrete wall where monitors hummed with fire. A hand shot up above the wall. Vihn halted them. Rowic pointed his rifle and flashlight at the hand. Further below it hung a bloodied dark face, unrecognizable as human. The team hurried around the wall. The hand belonged to a woman sprawled across the floor. She was so burnt and bloody and shadowed by the blackened room that Evan could hardly put together her features, except for her sagging eyes of night and day. Andrea. Not his father. Was he dead like the rest? He couldnt accept that idea until he found his body. He looked around, steadying his thoughts until he could uncover what had happened. Next to her lay two figures. The first was a dreaded thing C a lifeless suit of purifier armor, motionless against a set of glowing terminals. The head of its pilot was charred black, with little streams of smoke drifting up from its skin. It Evan hated being called it, but here was a true monster finally slain. If only it had been Krow, but the armor was missing the red stripes of that creatures design. Still, it was enough to build the flames of Evans growing lust for vengeance. The second body was Jeck, scorched to a crisp. Im sorry. You were right. I should have listened. I was the fool. Vihn passed the rifle off to Rowic and placed the tendrils of his plant arm over Andrea. They spread across her, glowing the same color as his eyes. Some of the wounds receded, and the rebel leader steadied her breathing. Here, she wheezed. Her hands gripped Vihns face, and his eyes flickered for a brief period. Then she fell unconscious. I understand, Vihn said as his eyes steadied. Were done here. He lugged Andrea up and headed toward the exit. Rowic recorded a broadcast with his tablet. Alpha has been compromised, stay clear. We have the Ark. Requesting sanctuary, please respond. He turned to Vihn, Where do we go now? We cant stay here. The city ruins outside can give us cover for the night until we figure out what to do. Evan didnt progress. We have to figure out what happened to my father. If hes dead, I want to know. Vihn and Rowic swapped a glance, before nodding to Evan. Maybe well find him in the main terrace, Vihn suggested. Maybe and hopefully not. The three of them made their way back through the city terraces, where one of the bases great television screens flickered with distorted images of a Federation news report. Evan could not look away, though now he wished he was blind. A spokeswoman spoke with a smile that was stretched thin by cracks in the screen. She celebrated by saying, The end of the terrorist organization, the Blood Red Army, was realized today thanks to purifier Jospeh Krow and the Governor of the East, Evangelos Hendricks. We have them both via video link to speak on the matter. There they were. The murderer, and father, beside each other smiling. It was true. His father there was no more remorse left for Evan to feel, just pain, and fury. Evan stopped himself from processing any further. He was going to find them, he was going to let himself feel the emotions in him, hed unpin the grenade in his chest and engulf them in flame. Daniels voice stuttered over their commlinks. Uh, yo, guys? What is it, Daniel? Vihn asked. Theres something on the thingy? What? Crap, I see it. Rowic flicked the tablet, showing a projection of the wider area outside of the base. Several large strobes were closing on their position. Vihn, man, those are Fed interceptors. Were not going to make it to Addy in time. Ad Astra. Vihn handed Andrea over to Evan, who took on as much of her weight as he could. Vihn called over the comms, Nyla, Cranston, get back to the ship. Were making our way up. Yes, sir, already outside. Up the stairs Evan, Vihn, and Rowic hurried with Andrea in their arms. Uh I think see them coming. Daniels voice quivered. Vihn swore. Alright, as soon as Nyla and Cranston are aboard, get out of here. What about you guys? Well figure it out. Where the heck do we go? Rowic whispered, the Feds might see them when they take off. Any base they go to would be in danger. Vihn chewed his lip, looking around at their surroundings. Evan tried to think of a plan, but his mind was a hive of wasps. Had it been some sort of A.I. trick? No, hed been gullible too long, he couldnt keep lying to himself. He just needed to know, why? Vihn rushed Evan and Rowic forward. Sir, Cranston said, we wont be heading back to the Ad Astra. What are you talking about? Nyla came next, The Feds are too fast. Ny and I are going to try and pull the interceptors off of the ship so it can get away. Vihn cursed Cranston. You idiots. Yes, sir. Daniel, get out of here, now. Thank you, Cranston. Thank you, Nyla. Vihn had stopped running and set Andrea down with Evan. Evan scowled. Youre going to let them get themselves killed? Goodbye, sir. Adios, Vinny. Evan called over his comm, Stop! You guys cant-! Vihn grabbed Evan by his shoulders and forced him against a wall. He stared Evan dead eyed, and Evan stared back with hate coursing through him. Do you not blame yourself? Vihn asked. What? Vihn tightened his grip. This is on us both, kid. Dont you get it? Evan shrunk. He knew it was true. We were idiots. We trusted people who never deserved it. We thought we could help everyone. We were na?ve, kid. Cranston, Nyla, Ken, Luna, Zachary C all their deaths are on us, and were never going to get them back. It disarmed Evan to hear Vihn list those names it was Evans list. Except for C How can you throw Cranston and Nyla in there? Theyre not dead, man, theyre right out there. Vihn sighed. Maybe not. But whatever happens, thats war, kid. All we got to do is move on. Theres no changing things. Own up to it and move on, because a lot more people are going to die before this war is over. It had fallen apart, every bit of the rebellion, every bit of Evans family. Whats the point then, if people die no matter what we do? Revenge, Vihn said. When our friends and family are dead because the government murdered them, theres no justice. When both sides of the country do nothing but repel each other, theres no peace. One side will win this war, but only when the other one ceases to exist. Evan stared at him in dismay. Was that the truth? Was revenge all he could salvage from this? Rowic sighed. Ad Astra made it out, Cranston and Nyla were able to draw their attention C Crap... He smacked his tablet. What? Vihn asked. The Feds are running a trace; I had to disconnect the scanner. I wont be able to see where anyone is anymore. Vihn nodded. He turned to Evan. Are you still with us, kid? He wanted to give up, to let the trials wash him away. But he didnt. He went to Andrea, grabbed her arm, and slung it over his shoulder. Until theres nothing left. Good. Vihn took Andreas other arm. He led them out into the sunny air, where birds chirped, and wind whispered, oblivious to the horrors below them. There were no signs of the other rebels, Feds, or Ad Astra. Evan, Rowic, Andrea, and Vihn continued to the old Jeep that was hidden within brush and trees. How have you been able to see? Evan asked regarding Vihns white eyes. He blinked, flickering the light. The blindness doesnt set in until I stop using my powers. If I keep focusing on this arm of mine, Im good. But as soon as I sever my connection with it, my vision will go with it too. Some loss of vitamin in me or something, I dont know, Im no scientist, kid. Set Andrea down on the Jeep bed. Evan helped prop her back against a metal gas container. Her face was charcoaled and bloody, her hair scorched near clean off. Evan grabbed a canteen and dripped its waters over her lips, hoping she was able to drink some of it. Vihn unzipped her jacket. Her beige undershirt was matted with blood. As he lifted the shirt, the woman moaned. There was a deep gash in her side. Vihn popped open one of his flower vials and spilled its contents over the wound and placed his hand over it. The flower grew over the area and spread until it was wrapped around her belly. The plant emanated a mutual glow, and the gash receded until it was out of sight. Vihn took part of the plant and did the same thing to the burns and lacerations on her head. After about an hour, the wounds were mostly healed, and the glowing stopped. Andrea sighed in her unconscious state. Vihns plant arm shriveled up and fell from his shoulder like a wilted bouquet, while his eyes stayed in their white trance. He patted around his jacket. Feels like Im down to one last vial. Shell need a lot more help than that. You think we should return to Luis and Nan, then? Evan asked. Maybe, but we have to move slowly. I dont want to bring the Feds to them. Well take a different path thatll lead us near some of the other rebel cells. Maybe theres still survivors there who can help us. Evan assisted Rowic in loading Andrea into the back seat and then sat next to her. This rabbit hole hed been delving into had widened into an abyss, one of which he didnt know if hed ever claw his way out. Interlude: "Norton, the Federation Janitor" (Part 2) - (Alt POV) (Bonus Chapter) Some time ago, at a non-disclosed Monolith Facility Norton drummed his fingers against his knees. His head was covered by a black sack and his ears were plugged by sound dampeners. So, all he could sense was his inner thoughts and a steel bench beneath him. A normal Tuesday. The ship he was in jostled, and the bench ached his rear, but he didnt pay it much mind. After this job, hed finally apply to Star City University C one of the few places that still offered music degrees. What hed do with a music degree in a world where the traditional music industry was dead? Who knew! But hed at least have fun doing it. Maybe hed teach or get a gig in the National Orchestra. His experience as a Federation officer would certainly help him get a job there because it made him look like a nationalist, which he wasnt, but hed take any advantage he could get. Whatever it was he did, there was no way hed study something like business, despite his moms wishes. Sitting still, running numbers all day? Didnt jive. Janitor was already boring enough, couldnt live with himself if he stooped any lower in the machine. Something patted his arm. A hand? His sound dampeners turned off C letting in the roar of the hover ships engine. Hey, mind if you stop humming? A voice asked. Norton cleared his throat. Oh, s-yeah, my bad. Then the dampeners were back up, and he was left to his own thoughts. Stop humming, my- An automated voice buzzed in his dampeners. Arriving at [redacted], prepare to deport this craft. Finally. Last job, here we g- ***** -eeze, what happened this time. Norton gawked as the bag had been lifted and sound dampeners removed from his head. Blaring alarms, scrambling drones, running soldiers C wasnt the typical day hed expected to show up to. This was a Monolith facility of drab square structures surrounded in a bowl of a mountain, and something had gone very wrong here. He called over his walkie, Hey, Cass please tell me Im not supposed to be here yet. His supervisor patched in. Sorry, Norton. There was an attack a few moments before you landed C but everything should be cleared now. Should be? I knew youd worry. Relax, Ive been informed that the attackers are gone. Just business as normal. Why didnt you tell me sooner? Cass had the audacity to say Eh. The shrugged shoulders of vocal noises. She said, I didnt think itd be a problem. He was not pleased with the casual way she talked about this issue. He crept forward past a landing zone, and his eyes widened when he saw a ship with a giant meteor-sized hole in the side of it. Stretchers had been laid out with bodies on them. Cass, he said. Its not that bad, youve seen worse. Norton took a deep breath. Fair point. So, what am I cleaning up this time? He swiveled back to the ship hed arrived in. He typed in a combination on the outer hull. A compartment hissed and popped out with all his gear C mops, buckets, brooms, extra strength trash bags, radiation suit, and four engineer class drones. Cass said, I guess some hacker got into the security systems there and let out several prisoners in the lower floors. Resulted in a firefight with enforcers. Blood stains, bullet casings, crumbled cement, miscellaneous biological residue C nothing unusual. Nothing unusual Norton knew better at this point. He slipped on the radiation suit and fasted its seals. Dont tell me youre putting on your radiation suit. Cass chuckled. She was grinding his nerves more than usual. In fact, this was the most relaxed shed ever been. What was with her? What wasnt she telling him? Biological residue, he said. You dont like that word? I dont like how you said it. What? How did I say it? Why are you so nonchalant today? Why are you so tense? Look, I just dont want any surprises. Oooh, I know what this is about. She didnt look like her registration page, huh? Wait, What!? That Emily girl or whatever. Now it made sense. Now he was furious. Woah, woah. Thats a major breach of privacy. I guess it didnt go well? Wha- no It was fine. Good, Im glad to hear it. Nortons mind wobbled. He didnt know what to say. Cass had no right to look up his personal time. But part of him liked that someone else knew. He shook his head. If he didnt get to work now, hed be stuck there until sundown. Look, please dont snoop on me, he said as he activated a floating cart for carrying his tools. Casss voice fell back into its normal professionalism. As your supervisor, its my responsibility to make sure you are maintaining a Federation positive personal life But Ill try not to say anything about it next time. Sigh. The Federation cared too much about his life outside of work. Oh well, her promise to not say anything would have to work for now. No more time to waste. Norton entered codes into the frames of the four drones. The robotic basketballs vibrated to life. He unlatched tethers that held them down, and their bodies hovered to his head level. Each was equipped with a portable flamethrower, various tool addons for grabbing light debris and maintenance, and underslung small caliber turrets C just in case. You could be reading stolen content. Head to the original site for the genuine story. The four drones had their nicknames written on their sides. Plant, Page, Jones, Bonham. Veterans of a time long before Nortons. Alright, lets get to it. Norton hobbled forward; the four drones floating behind him in a line. ***** Soldiers always made Norton uncomfortable. Not because he feared them, but because he could sense their fear. Maybe they didnt show it in the traditional way C stressed breathing, nervous twitching C instead, he could always tell their trepidation by how little they talked and how close their fingers were to their triggers. In this case, here were three soldiers escorting him and his drones down the facilitys lift C each soldiers fingertip a pinpricks distance from being on the freaking death button of their rifles. Which, to Nortons summation, meant that the situation was still going on. What it could be, his heart wouldnt stop dancing over in anxiety. He said, Hey. The front soldier flinched. Not a good sign. He continued, Everything good now? The soldier cleared his throat but didnt look back to him. A purifier swept through here C should be. Should be there was that phrase again. The lift settled, and the doors popped open. This floor was bathed in red lights, as the alarm system hadnt been turned off yet. Hundreds of glass cages lined the walls where prisoners thrashed and screamed. A walkway led to a security bunked a few hundred feet away. The soldiers butted their rifles into their shoulders and spread on to the walkway. This was never the sign of things being cleared out. But if the soldiers were there, Norton was sure there was nothing to fear. An officer greeted them at the end of the walkway. There were several puddles of blood, chipped concrete, and bullet shells lying around the place C just as Cass had promised. You the janitor? The officer asked, a fresh red scar of three slashes across his face. Senior Federation Affliction Clean-Up Detail, Norton corrected. Yes, that was basically a janitor, but he hated when other soldiers called him that. More often than not, they meant it to demean him. But hed dealt with too many dead bodies and near-death encounters to be treated as something lesser. The officer nodded. Good. Whats with the suit? Norton did feel somewhat silly wearing it now that hed seen what little he had to clean up, but he didnt show it. Instead, he mustered up his senior officer voice. Maintains protection from contaminants. Hmph. Very well. The officer stepped to the side. A group of rebels attacked, and a couple Afflicted got loose in the process. Made a mess of us. We cleaned up most the guts though, so you shouldnt have much a problem. Very thoughtful C genuinely so. Most soldiers were too squeamish to pick up the remains of Afflicted encounters. Perhaps the job would be easy as Cass said. Music career, here we come. Wait, the officer twisted his head. Wait? Wait, why? A sharp hiss pierced through the blaring alarm. The soldiers readied their guns. The officer unholstered a pistol at his hip. Whaaat was going on? The officer pulled Norton back. Men, form a perimeter. One of those freaks are still fooling around! Oh, for the love of all things living, Norton did not want to be in the grasp of this guy. Hed seen another detail specialist get turned into a human body shield once C laser visioned right in half. That was not how he was going to go out. He tore himself from the officers grip. Rip! His suit split at the forearm. He ignored it and ran for the cover of the security bunker. His hand swiped across his wrist computer, and his four drones lit up with red lights as they entered protection mode. They sped after him but were too slow C the threat was already ahead of him. Flickering green eyes glistened within the bunkers shadow. Oh, man. If I get out of this, fine, Ill do anything! Ill honor my mom and go to business school. I take a boring non-rewarding job. Anything if it means I can survive! Up there! Norton yelled and dove to the floor. The green eyes were enveloped by a cloud of smoke and disappeared. Norton pushed himself to his knees. Was that it? Argh! He flipped back. A puff of black smoke whooshed around a soldiers neck. He fell, clutching his throat as it seeped blood, wide gashes across it. Before Norton could react, another cloud of smoke exploded at the face of a second soldier. Red squirted from his eyes. He stumbled back and flipped over the side of the walkway rails. His scream ended by a thud. The officer yelled, This cursed thing! Its come back to finish the job! He let off rounds indiscriminately as the cloud bounced from place to place. So freaking fast. A flick of something popped out. Was that a tail? Nortons mind raced, he had to get out of here. His drones spun around in circles. This thing was moving too fast for them to lock on with their guns. But flamethrowers might work. He swiped his wrist computer for the command, incinerate. Get down! He shouted. But another puff of smoke was on the third soldier, a grouping of slashes raking him from throat to forehead. He fell to the floor lifeless. Now it was just Norton, the Officer, and the drones. Plant, Page, Jones, and Bonham deployed their flamethrower detachments and spewed blazing petrol in wide arcs through the air. The officer collapsed underneath their fire, shielding his face. Norton crawled over to him. You ok? The officer nodded. Ok, we need to make it to the lift. Come on, the drones only have so much fuel. Norton pulled himself across the floor as fast as he could, the drones spinning with fire above him, and the officer clawing after him. A fuel gauge on Nortons wrist computer displayed the depreciating amounts of fuel each drone had. Already down to 30% capacity. They were not meant to sustain fire for this long. Faster, Norton tugged himself forward across the grated surface of the walkway, careful not to snag his feet as he crawled. He was almost to the lift, just another yard or so. Confound it! The officer yelped. Norton looked back. The officers holster snagged in the grating, and he was trying to pull it out. Unclip it, Norton shouted back. The drones continued in the air above Norton C and away from the officer. Quick! That horrifying black smoke plumed around the officers neck and was gone again before Norton had registered the gurgling and slashing. He had to press on. He glanced the fuel gauge. 10%. He threw out his arms. 9%. He leap-frogged forward. 8%. He stumbled. 7%. He rolled to a crouch. 6%. The lift was so freaking close. But not 5% close. Screw it! He pushed himself up. 4%. The drones adjusted their altitude so not to singe him. He hobbled. 3%. Right foot, left foot, right foot. 2%. He lunged. He tumbled into the lift. 1%. He swiped his keycard against a scanner and pressed his face against it. It beeped green, and the doors shunted closed. 0%. Woohoo! Yes! Freaking yes! Norton collapsed to the floor of the elevator. Hed left the drones down there, but he could reclaim them later. He grabbed his walkie and rasped, Cass? Norton, everything going well? I need a pay raise. In fact, I think Im putting in my two weeks. He slid himself up against the lift wall. What? What happened? He shook his head. Took what deep breaths he could. Too much, Cass. Too much. You know, I made a promise to the divine that Id go to business school in exchange for my life. But screw that. I deserve to be happy. Im going to music school. Mrow. Nortons heart skipped. He twisted his head. A black cat sat on its hind legs, green eyes piercing Nortons soul. It batted at a flappy piece of fabric where his suit had been ripped. Norton gulped. He dared not move. The cat hopped into his lap and looked up into his face. Actually, not really at his face, more so cocking its head side to side as it saw something. Its own reflection in the radiation helmet? Ding. The cat scooted back, its hair raised, and teeth bared. Norton had made it to the first floor. He found his voice. It-its ok. Its just the elevator little guy. The cat steadied itself. Mrow. Howd a cat get in here? He reached out to pet it. Poof! Norton yanked back. The cat was gone in a cloud of black smoke. Norton spun around on all fours, trying to see where the demon cat had gone. Then out of his peripherals, he saw it. Poofing across the tops of ships, and buildings, and out across the mountains C that freaky shadowy feline escaped into the world. In the excitement, Norton hadnt noticed that Cass was shouting his name. Norton? Sending in back up. Wait, he said. Im ok What happened? He shook his head. Cass. I need a drink. 32: "Who is Left?" A grey mist enveloped the forest. The Jeep continued a winding trek through the trees, still a days travel to the next base, according to Rowic. Evan broke his stare from the landscape and looked to Andrea beside him. She still lay unconscious. Soup and water were easily passed through her lips, but she responded to nothing else. Evan was frozen on the inside, where his family and friends had kept him warm. What would fill him now that they were dead and scattered? The two IDs were in his hand again, Kens and his, like hed never saved his friend to begin with. He thought of Blink, and how she had been unconscious, barely stable; Twitch holding her hand in solemnity. Had Daniel flown them away fast enough to escape the interceptors? Had Cranston and Nyla sacrificed themselves? Who was alive? Who was dead? The questions peeled at Evans mind, allowing fear to seep into it. The thought of this new base they were heading toward was a molding apple in his mind. For some reason that he couldnt explain, he knew that Death was still ahead, waiting to greet them as it always did. Vihn looked back to Evan through the review mirror. Almost there. Hows Andrea doing? She still lay unmoving. Evan hesitated to check if she was breathing but relented a finger under her nose. Shes still alive. Good. They continued until Vihn was satisfied with a place to camp for the night in the remains of a ruined town. Fire crackled before him, yet Evan was still cold. The broadcast of his father toyed with his thoughts. It was clear in his mind, defined enough that the flames swayed with images of his fathers face. A smile the kiss of betrayal. If the video was true, then the Governor was alive, and all the rebels were dead. He had sold them out and abandoned Evan in the process. Ken had died. Hed been riddled with bullets at the hands of Krow, but itd been Evans father who had pulled the trigger. Evan had seen enough to know he couldnt trust the FND broadcasts and had experienced enough to know that they might ring true. What was the point of it all? The answer eluded Evan, and so he turned to face the last sliver of red that was the Sun as it sank beyond the tree line. Maybe the truth would arrive on the back of the next day. Hey, kid. Vihn stood beside Evan. Its time to put out the fire. Evan didnt say anything, instead burying himself further into his arms. Vihn sat next to him on a chunk of crumbled stone that had once been a part of a wall that had fallen from a hotel, showcasing the interior of its rooms. Vihn sighed. It sucks. It sucks, Evan repeated. Vihn pulled his old photo from his pocket and hunched over it. People die, Evan. Creases formed around his eyes. Always. It was a hopeless message, and one that Evan was starting to believe. He focused more on the rebels face. There was pain there, the kind of pain Evan had felt when well, quite often lately. The pain when nothing was in his control, yet everything was his fault. Did you love her? Evan asked about the woman in the photo. Well, kid. I had at one point. But Vihn sucked in a hollow breath. I guess since were not going anywhere tonight, and theres nothing to drink, I might as well tell you about it. About what? Farfa. He concentrated harder on the photo, as if unlocking memories from within its frayed paper form. I did love her, once. She promised Woah, this is going to be a longer story than Id remembered. He shook his head. I used to have a sister, Nadia, and she had a baby. It was Unification Day the purge. A friend had given my sister and I a tip that the enforcers were cracking into the Afflicted housing zones and rounding them up. All of us, no matter who. They were also executing anyone who resisted, and nabbing people who they simply heard rumors of being Afflicted. But my friend told us not to worry, we should group up with as many Afflicted as we could, and shed send us an escort to take us out of the ghetto. I thanked her; said I owed her my life for the help. We waited there. We waited all night. Finally, someone came but it wasnt her. It was the Feds. Not just the soldiers, but theyd brought monsters with them. Hulking suits of armor, with machine guns and rockets strapped to them. It was then that I realized the rumors were wrong. The Feds hadnt come to take us away. Theyd come to exterminate us. They opened fire. Any window, door, car, home C any place where someone might be hiding was lit up by gunfire. They gunned down whole families. They murdered everyone. I woke up that night blood gushing from my side I crawled; it was all I could do. There they were. Nadia and her baby, my niece pale as the Moon, a bullet for each of them. The next morning, Farfa was on the news. Shed been promoted, Freshest Representative of Monolith Industries. Theyd made her a board member in exchange for selling us all out. I knew this then, that anyone who was a part of Monolith, or the Federation, was the embodiment of evil. So Here I am, holding onto this photo because it reminds me of my destiny. It was clear to Evan what Vihn meant. Revenge, he whispered. The old stranger crumpled the photo and looked to Evan. Bloody, and absolute. Evan wondered if he could do it If he faced Krow again, maybe he could Evan imagined crushing Krows head with his powers, just as the purifier had done to Zachary. Hang him, just as theyd done to Luna. Riddle him with bullets, just as hed done to Ken. Evans skin prickled. Would he be able to kill Krow when the time came? Would he be able to kill his father, the man who had betrayed him? Though, who was more deserving of death than Evan for murdering his own mother, starting this whole mess? Maybe this was all part of a punishment he deserved. If only Andrea would wake up, then maybe she could tell him the truth about what had happened. He obsessed over all of it, until he finally faded into sleep. ***** Evan woke, stuffed against the side of the Jeep. His mouth was dry. He popped open the door and stepped into the night stroked forest. His palm slid against dew as he guided himself along with the Jeeps frame, slunk to the back, and rummaged through a satchel for a water canteen. The night sang with many sounds. An owls hoot, crickets chirping, the wind rustling through the pine and maple trees. A crunch that pierced the night. Love this story? Find the genuine version on the author''s preferred platform and support their work! Evan looked behind him. The pitch darkness shrouded over everything, and little was visible. It didnt matter, the water from the canteen soothed his throat, and he was ready to return to sleep. He made his way back, slipping his hand across the Jeeps frame again. Another crunch of leaves caused Evans heart to skip. This time it was closer. He stared into the abyss. A low rumble came from his left, then to the right, then in front of him. The sounds encroached toward him from the three sides. On his right and left came the glint of animalistic eyes, though not in front of him, despite equal sounds of a stalking predator. He squeezed back into the Jeep and engaged the lock. Vihn, Rowic, something is out there. The two snapped awake and joined Evan in observing the outside. What is it? Rowic asked. I only saw eyes or something. Evan shifted around to check for other entities. Vihn unsheathed a flashlight. Its beam pushed back the darkness. Directly in front of the drivers seat prowled a large wolf. Very similar to the ones Evan encountered in the city ruins near Alpha base. It was unnatural, with thick veins and muscles exposed from gaps in its wicked fur. The eyes flickered bright yellow, peering into the light, unperturbed. Rowic said, Maybe we should keep driving. Vihn shook his head. Driving at night is too risky, its harder to maneuver, and drones patrol the forests more at this time. Chills wrapped Evans spine as he stared at this strange creature. Rabies dude. Ive seen it before, Rowic whispered Those are Afflicted. Evan slid back from the window and buckled Andrea in case the animal charged them. They came out when Alpha was attacked the first time. Its still just an animal. It cant bother us while were in here. Vihn turned off the flashlight and slumped back in his seat. A thud shook the Jeep from behind. The three rebels jumped, and the flashlight was back on. Nothing was there, but the bed bowed under some sort of force. A few canisters and boxes of equipment toppled over, but there was nothing visibly pushing them. The vehicle shook as the bed rose again. Freaky. Rowic grabbed his rifle. From outside, a rhythm of beats rushed the Jeep. Boom! The vehicle lifted off the dirt then thudded back down. The side where Evan sat was caved in, the window shattered. A wolf shook in front of the door, glass shedding from its fur; it had rammed itself into the Jeep. After a moment, it dashed back into the darkness, a blur of motion. It charged into the Jeep again, nearly tipping the car on its side. That thing''s fast! Rowic fired his gun at the beast. But the creature was already gone, and the bullet hit the mud instead. Ok, I change my mind. Vihn started the ignition. The wolf with exposed muscles leaped at the broken window. Rowic fired again. Blood sprayed from its side. It rolled across the dirt, blood gushing from its shoulder. Almost instantly, a shard of metal oozed out of the wound, which then sealed shut as if nothing had happened. Three Afflicted wolves. One was running at an impossible speed, the second with the power to heal, and a third that could not be seen. It wasnt hard to believe that the same chemical could have mutated an animal in the same way humans had been, but their control over their powers was astonishing. Were the animals even aware of their special abilities? Maybe the powers only worked in conjunction with their natural hunting patterns; speed and regeneration couldnt require too much mental awareness. Lets not wait for that thing to hit us again, Evan said. The wolves encroached. Screw it. Vihn floored the accelerator, leaving behind the Afflicted animals. Evan looked at the beasts as they grew smaller. The lead one stared back with his yellow eyes, like stars in the night sky. ***** The Jeep squished along the damp earth path. Luckily, they hadnt encountered any more drones, or wolves, or rebels for that matter. They hadnt gotten much sleep either. Rowic had taken the wheel. Evan rode in the passengers seat, and Vihn tended to Andrea with the last of his flowers. Fortunately, if they made it to Nan and Luis then they could get more of his miracle plants. Evan noted how Vihns eyes were still in that white haze, even when he wasnt using his powers. He once said hed pushed himself to this point before, where his eyes wouldnt return to normal for many days. Hed used his powers a lot in the span of the last few days, and it was clear that his eyesight would be weakened for some time. Andrea had awakened for a moment to mutter something about surviving, pushing forward, dont give up C stuff like that. But she still lay unconscious. Her wounds had healed enough that she was recognizable as herself again, which was good, though it seemed the healing had gone as far as it was going to go with their limited supplies. This meant some of the more intense burns and gashes had left behind craters and scars in her skin. How far away are we? Vihn asked. Rowic yawned. Not very... Things look fairly familiar now. The battery on his tablet had run dangerously low, and theyd turned it off so they could use it in case of an emergency. It was beyond Evan how Rowic or Vihn could navigate the forest. It was all trees, bushes, and more trees. Heya, go ahead and switch the pad on for a moment, Rowic said. Youre lost, Vihn said. No Not yet anyway. Evan switched on the tablet and followed Rowics instructions until the hacker was satisfied with the information, and hed have to be, because the device had died. Ah C thats fine. Its somewhere here. Rowic There! He pulled alongside a tree whose gnarled roots curved out from it like swollen muscles. They left the Jeep. Vihn used his powers to extend the overgrowth of the forest to cover their vehicle. Rowic guided him as they both proceeded to carry Andrea. Evan, there should be a hatch somewhere by the tree, Vihn said. After kicking around piles of dried leaves and pine, Evan found a wooden covering on the ground. He lifted it, dirt billowing from the movement. Underneath was a hollowed-out tunnel that the four of them could descend into. Evan switched on his wrist computers light. The tunnel extended forth for a stretch of crudely carved dirt walls. Seeing as there were no other directions than forward, Evan pressed on with the two others behind him. It wasnt long before Evan heard the clanking of glasses, and the bubbling of some sort of brew. Then came the smell of flowers and chemicals, which was as much the smell of Heaven as Evan could imagine after what theyd gone through the last few days. Slits of light ran along the tunnel walls in front of him. He steadied himself forward until he finally saw the steel bars of the cellar room that was below Nans tea shop. One of the cells had tossed bed sheets and pillows, and Evans heart sank as he recalled Jeck had been the last person to sleep there. Resting forever in the rebel mausoleum that was Alpha base. Evan pushed open the cell. A dozen bells jingled above him. Oh my, God came a voice from above. Shortly after, two sandaled feet creaked down the ladder there, followed by the quivering body of Nan. She dusted her hands off on her apron and stared at the four tattered rebels, her mouth gaping, and eyes glassy. Hi Nan, Vihn croaked. She hobbled over to him; arms cast wide open. She wrapped them around him and squeezed. Oh, thank you, thank you, Almighty! She sobbed and cackled, all while Vihn struggled to hold up Andrea without being knocked over himself. Nan noticed this and helped set Andrea down on one of the cots. The old lady barely gave Vihn a moment to sit as she smothered him with hugs and kisses, like a grandmother might. It was bittersweet watching this happiness. Evan knew what she was feeling, to find someone you love that you thought was forever lost. Another voice came from above. Nan? Is everything ok? Evan recalled that Luis didnt talk White light whirled in front of Evan. Standing there was a girl with short blonde hair, crouched in a fighting stance with a pan raised over her head. His insides leapt. Evan. The pan clattered against the ground as Blink dropped it and embraced him. Im so sorry. Im so sorry. And now it was his turn to cry, as all the pain hed built up broke free, rushing into tears as he crumbled into Blinks arms and held her tightly. Shes alive. Thank you, Almighty, shes alive. 33: "Who We Hurt" We barely got away, thanks to Cranston and Nyla. Blink clutched her tiny cup of tea while telling Evan and the other two about what had happened. They sat around a creaky pine table, joined by Luis, Twitch, and Daniel. Last I saw them; they were running for cover while Nyla was sending fireballs at the interceptors. She clipped one, but we had flown away before I saw what had happened to it. Vihn shook his head. We didnt see any wrecks. She must not have hit anything important. Nan tended to Andrea with a special salve she had mixed up. Tsk. Disgusting what they did, absolute atrocity. What has happened to this nation? They massacre children in the name of politics. Its not the first time theyve done this. It wont be the last, either. Vihn poured something extra into his cup and drank. Evan muttered, Well never be able to stop this. No matter what we do, this keeps happening. Blink protested. We cant give up. If we did, then all their deaths would be wasted. We have to beat them, even if it takes everything. Beat them how? This was the question that no one had an answer for, and maybe one that there was no answer for. After a while, the group separated, and Blink and Evan were left alone in the cell rooms below C except for Andrea who slept behind them. You know, Blink began, I never told you. Told me what? My birthname is Anya Briar my brother is Teague Briar. Ew, that feels weird to say. She played with the words in her mouth. It was something Evan hadnt realized hed ever want to know. He was happy for the distraction. Why tell me now? She shrugged. Weve fought life and death, and I never thought to tell you. Well, I mean, I dont mind C Anya Thats not a bad name. Oh? You dont think so? No, but do you? She bobbed her head about. No, its not a bad name. So why did you and Twitch-Teague, both change your names? To separate ourselves from the past, she said. Evan. I used to be a different person. I havent told you the full truth about how I got my powers. You know, I was scared of becoming Afflicted, just like every other kid in the East Coast, and then it happened. I used to always pray, not me, please not me. Though, it was never really up to me, Ive realized. My brother and I were in the car with our parents one day, they were arguing about my brother and I whether they should take us to get screened, because like all parents back then, they were paranoid over every weird thing a developing child goes through. That freaked my brother out, he started crying. Wed heard stories of kids who got screened, how they were taken away on the spot and were never seen again. It just made my parents yell louder, so, he screamed even louder. The glass shattered, and my dad swerved, all of our ears bleeding. Twitch was Afflicted. I grabbed my brother so, so tight, and prayed he wouldnt be taken away, that we could escape. When I opened my eyes, my brother and I were in some random alleyway. Well, it was an alleyway that Id seen in a movie once, I think. The heroes had gone there to escape from the bad guys. It was the first time I ever teleported. I was sooo happy, and scared, but then I heard my brother gurgling. I looked back and he was grabbing his throat. I thought he was choking on something, but he was trying to speak. I hadnt brought all of him with me. So, the same day he discovered his powers, I took them away. Blink brushed tears away from her face. Anyway thats when the heroin addict found us and took us. I hated him. I put everything, all of what was happening to us, on him. He eventually sold us to the Blood Red Army, but the pain had never healed. Years later, I found him. I wanted to kill him. I tried to. I almost did. But then I realized, looking at his crinkly old body, him begging for his life what was the point? He abused me, kidnapped me. So what? That was the past, and I was about to give him what little humanity I had left. I had found my new family because of him, and he was pathetic, nothing. So, I forgave him I let go of the pain. I moved on to try and help the people I loved instead of letting the people I hated control me. Evan couldnt find the words to say. He was thankful for her, and what shed told him ran through his mind. Forgave the man whod hurt her. Let it go. Given the opportunity, could Evan do the same? He didnt think he would. How could he consider forgiveness when the people he wanted to hurt were still strong, still powerful? Hed have to think more about it. Still, he reached an arm over Blink, wanting to comfort her. She relaxed in his embrace. Thank you for listening to that, Im sorry, she said. Dont be Thank you for all of it. Thank you for trusting me. For what its worth, Im glad youre here. Im glad I know you. Thank you. He felt silly, unsure how to form the words for how he felt, but he tried, nonetheless. She sat up, a bittersweet twist in her lips. Hey, do you still have that music I leant you? Oh! He ran to his backpack and pulled out the device and ear pods. Together they listened to the swell of sympathy and electronic. The harmony adapting to them, as one. It was a moment of peace again. Until the question infected Evans mind again. He needed to know the truth about his father. He looked back to Andrea, who still slept. How long do you think itll take for her to wake up? Blink shrugged. I dont know why she hasnt already. Its a coma. Hey, dont worry. Shell be fine. Were safe here for now Sorry, Evan said, I think I have an idea. Blink nodded compliantly, as Evan left her and approached Andrea. One of her hands hung off the side of the bed. He held it. Nothing happened, the same as each time before. He sat next to the bed, closed his eyes, and waited. Instead of holding in his emotions, he allowed his anger and fear to bubble to the surface. He felt his body radiate and shiver. His mind spun, until he was no longer in the cell but was now in a great empty white space. Ahead sat Andrea with her back to him, the same way as she had sat in her chamber in Alpha base. Her great book was set out in front of her on a podium, with some candles lit around her. As Evan took a step forward, the white floor rippled like water, revealing glimpses of concrete within the waves until the ripples settled back into whiteness. He took another step, and again the floor distorted, but this time showing red carpeting. Another step, but now the floor was sand on a beach. He finished the journey to Andrea. Her face was clear of any wounds or injury, looking healthier than the first day hed met her. Hello, Evan, she said with her eyes closed. He sat next to her. The floor rippled out, showing Andreas chambers again for a brief time. What happened to you? he asked. She sighed. Child, I dont think Ill be waking up again. He was speechless. I wont die, no, but I will not wake. The damage has been done. You have my mind, and that is the most useful part of me anyway. She smiled bitterly. Its my fault. We shouldnt have gone to meet with Shwood, it was a trap. The narrative has been taken without permission. Report any sightings. She opened her eyes and looked at him with that gaze of night and day. Evan, the future plays out on its own. What has happened cannot be undone. All we can do is be ready for when the next opportunity to act presents itself. He didnt know what to make of what she said. Destiny, hed almost accepted it, but now it was harder to believe in that ever before. Then she grew serious. Evan, I can show you what happened that day, when the base was attacked. I can show you the truth about your father. Evan tried to suppress his hope, but he knew she could sense it. Andrea sighed. What I offer to show you wont bring you peace, only answers. He considered this for a moment, and then nodded. The floor plunged them into an eruption of color, melting the white away until Evan was floating C no, standing in the air overlooking the terraces of Alpha base. It was like being on a glass bridge. Andrea floated next to him as they watched the morning smoke of the marketplace overcasting the ant-like people below. This, Andrea began, was the same day you left for Dogma Isle with the others. Suddenly, Evan was amongst the market goers. They walked through him as if he were a ghost. The world panned by him like a movie played out in virtual reality. He was standing on the upper terrace now, Andrea still beside him with her arms crossed over a guardrail, taking in the city view. Everything looks normal, Evan said. It did, said a voice behind him. He turned to see another Andrea walking to the side of him. He looked back and forth between the one who had addressed him, and the one looking over the city. The one standing on the guardrail must have been Andrea from the past. The Andrea who was guiding Evan said, I was unaware of what was unraveling before me. All the pieces of a plot were in place. I had seen visions that a day like this would come, but I did not know how. I did not know, because my enemy was a clever one. Father joined the past Andrea on the railing. This is rather impressive, Ark, he said. She gave him a calculated grin. Impressed that you havent been able to find it sooner? Certainly. We had always suspected there was an enclave of Afflicted out in the area, but wed been so focused on the city on the surface that we missed the one beneath it. Father leaned on the railing. She reached for his hand, but he took a step back and slipped his hands into his pockets. She scoffed. Youre hiding something you dont want me to see, Governor. I am, he nodded. For the sake of my son, I dont want to make a bad impression on his friends. Im sure you could block me out again, youre very good at hiding your intentions. But about Evan, you care so much for him? After everything youve done to other Afflicted, Id have imagined youd put him out like the rest. Father dropped his smile. Never. I suppose itd have tarnished your reputation, wouldnt it? You could not risk your position as a leader, she said. He shook his head and pulled his hands from his pockets. I would do anything for my son. See if I am lying. Andrea looked suspiciously at the upturned palms. That was a sudden change. I remembered that I am not afraid of you, he jousted darkly. The Ark took his palms. Her eyes flickered for a moment, along with Fathers. He pulled away. Andreas confident demeanor shifted. She looked at Father with something between understanding and disdain. You would do anything, it seems. The Governor righted his clothing, and said to her, Anything. Evan was confused. What did he show you? He asked the Andrea guiding him. She pursed her lips. Perhaps I will show you later. For now, the story at hand. The world around Evan whooshed through time, as the lights of the city turned to darkness. He found himself at the mouth of the prison cells where the two captured Feds had been, one of which had been Luna, whos memory ignited a ping of grief in him. A cloaked figure walked into the hall. A guard halted it. The cloaked figure struck him with lightning, sending the guard to the ground in a twitch of electricity. Evan gasped. Another Afflicted? Look closer, suggested Andrea. In the figures hand was some device that must have been what produced the electrical shock. The hooded figure made its way to Kiras cell, Lunas ex-officer. The figure unlocked the cell and the two ran with each other away from the jail block. Wait, Evan interrupted, how are you showing me this if you werent there? I was watching from the security cameras, Andrea answered. Why didnt you do anything? I wanted to see where this was leading, I had my suspicions as to who was responsible, but I had to know for sure. The vision changed perspective to points where security cameras must have been facing. Kira and the figure made it up the lift, all the way to the mountain exit, and out of the base. Why did you let them escape? Evan looked to see if there was more to the vision, but the perspective did not extend past the secret entrance. Andrea said, They would not have gotten far. We have others who would have pursued them, and I knew who it was by this point. But something else had drawn my attention that I did not expect. The Federation invasion force. The visions leapt to Andrea in the communications room with dozens of other Afflicted battling enforcers and a fearsome purifier. The purifier yanked Andrea off the floor by grabbing her face. It bashed her against a terminal, sending sparks into the air. The vision warped with colorful artifacts and tears, much like a computer might when malfunctioning. The images became sporadic, but the picture was clear enough. The Afflicted could not bring down the beast. Fire, ice, tentacles, and gunfire deflected off the powerful armor, all while the purifier unleashed endless machine gun volleys against the assailants. Purge Protocol, ready, an automated voice said. Evan remembered the term. Hed seen it firsthand as he fought Krow in the sewers. Panels opened along the purifiers armor, revealing black ribbings. But, just as the machine ignited, Jeck raised his arms into the air like Atlas lifting the world. The purifiers helmet was ripped off her head and spiraled in a twister of nanites, revealing her scarred face. Jeck leapt over Andreas bloody body, a gravitational field distorting around them. Before the purifier could reassemble her helmet again, the suit of armor ignited with blinding radiance. The next thing that was shown was a brief glimpse of the destroyed facility, corpses everywhere, the mutilated purifier, and Vihn standing before Andrea. It had gone the way Evan had thought. He felt no better having seen it. Andrea, the guide, explained. Im afraid that the damage the purifier has done to me is irreversible. Even now, I feel as though all the pieces of my mind and body are fractured, which is why I am convinced I will remain in this state you have seen me in for the last few days. Im sorry, Evan said. We led them to you. Dont apologize. It was my fate. Andrea smiled, though her eyes waned. This still doesnt explain anything about my father. Andrea dispersed the vision, placing them back into the white space. Tell me, She started, who else do you think would know to escape the facility that same night we were attacked? Evan shook his head. It doesnt make sense But inside, he knew it did, it made more sense the more he thought about it. His father had orchestrated everything. Evan was empty, with no arguments left to present against the truth. You must wake. The white world evaporated, and Evan was dumped on to the hard ground of Nans basement. He flailed as his mind attempted to latch on to reality. Evan! Rowic pulled him out of the trance. Whats going on? He sputtered. A burst of light filled the room as Blink appeared with two very battered individuals by her side: Cranston and Nyla. Evan was elated to see them alive but, judging by the gashes on their arms and legs, they had just barely escaped something nasty. Wolves, Cranston coughed as he and Nyla were sat in one of the cells. Nyla added more context through Spanish, in such an animated way that Evan was glad he couldnt understand what she was saying. Vihn went to work healing Nyla with his plants. We ran into the same creatures on our way here. Cranston dropped to a bench and ripped the sheets with his teeth before tying them around his wounds while he waited. I dont know why those things are all the way out here. Evan recalled the gold eyes of the pack leader. It gave him chills. Rowic tittered, jumbling his tablet in his hands. Hey, guys. Someone else followed you. Evan, Daniel, and the twins huddled around the hacker. A cluster of red dots made its way toward the town where they were. Ill tap into their comms. With a few swipes, the enforcers voices played on Rowics device. Tracking anomaly. Appears to have originated from the town. Check the feed. I see something a few clicks south. Copy. Blink let out a deep breath. They mustve caught me jumping back and forth to get Ny and pops. Gaaah, Nyla shrieked. At first, Evan thought it was her usual expression for hating everything, but then he realized how very pale she had become. When was the last time she used her powers? Vihn asked. Not since Alpha, Cranston answered. We knew the Feds were on us, we couldnt risk them seeing us. It was fine until those bleeding wolves came out of nowhere. Vihn snapped to Blink and Twitch, his eyes glazed over with white. Ice. The twins shot up the ladder without hesitation. It C Hurts! Nyla screeched. Her head arched back against the table, almost a perfect ninety degrees. The medical room was a furnace, and the air rippled. Shes going to explode. Vihn and Daniel held her down, their faces drenched in sweat. All of Vihns plants shriveled away from her body; nothing but dead brown twigs. Theyre here, Rowic called out. Nyla sobbed and jerked. Her fingers bled as she dug them into the table. The room took on a red hue. Im detecting a spike in energy, came a voice from Rowics tablet. Everyone in the room held their collective breaths as Blink and Twitch slid down the ladder with sacks of ice and sandbagged them against Nylas quivering body. Evan took in the situation. He thought about Alpha base and the carnage wrought there. That would be them, strewn out across Nans basement, and itd be the end of hope. He wanted to do something about it, he wanted to save them but he was afraid. Afraid that hed fail again, that hed be the reason why someone else died. He hadnt saved anyone since the beginning. Well, no one except Blink, he whispered. She walked over with him to the corner of the room. I think I know what I need to do, but I dont know if I can do it alone. She scrunched up her brow and squeezed his shoulder. I have your back. He nodded. I have a plan. 34: "Vendetta" Evan and Blink crawled out of the tunnel into the night. They pulled back behind the cover of bushes at the first sight of the Feds. It was a decently sized group, outfitted in a way which sent chills through Evans skin. Two of them lugged along black tubes, with blue tongues of fire that licked the dark air, like dragons barely restrained by their tamers. A squad of soldiers followed behind them, their helmet flashlights a rave of white beams. More so, they were flanked by four drones, two on either side with dozens of appendages sprung out from their June beetle forms. Evan searched the creeping tree line for the gold eyes and barred fangs that would be their salvation. He turned to Blink. She nodded. They grabbed hands and ran from the cover of the tunnel. Over there! A soldier shouted. Evan and Blink teleported away just before their lights reached them. Evan had grown accustomed to the jump, catching his feet this time as he landed with Blink a few meters ahead of their last position, and kept running forward. The enforcers chased after them, their headlights scattering across the trees and casting shadows, like spirits of the forest. Blink puffed. Well. Theyre chasing us now. Next? We bring the wolves Evan grabbed his left bicep and closed his eyes. His head buzzed for a moment as his powers came forth. It burned as his skin ripped at the seams. Blink shrieked, then quickly covered her mouth. What are you doing? She hissed through her fingers. Evan pulled his hand back, wet with blood. Dark liquid spilled from his bicep where he had used his powers to cut himself. It was a terrible feeling, like being a stuffed animal ripped apart at the stitching. Wolves are drawn to blood, he answered. He didnt know that for certain, it was a guess, one he hoped he wouldnt bleed out for. Fortunately, he didnt have to wait long to find out. Golden eyes prowled through the brush. One of the beasts crouched with a vicious snarl, its matted fur sharp and great. Blink grabbed his arm. Wait, he begged. The enforcers werent close enough. Evan! He snapped his attention to see what was going on. A grey blur was coming for them. Before Evan could react, Blink teleported them another few meters away. It was a wolf, that blur, which skid in the squishing mud to a stop. It sniffed the earth where they had been. Evan strained his eyes watching the Feds. Did they see? They had. In a matter of moments, the headlights were directed onto the wolves, and the soldiers rushed for them. The beasts were fearfully strong, and Evan was confident that the Feds would be easily deterred, just as he and the others had been several nights back when theyd faced the wolves. The creatures eyes glistened as the enforcer headlights landed on them. A soldier flew against a tree, the fast wolfs teeth gripped into his neck. The other soldiers scrambled as their comrade gurgled blood. The second wolf pounced onto the back of a flamethrower trooper. Bursts of petrol spewed into the air. Another soldier dropped to the ground; his leg strung straight out. It gushed crimson as his body was dragged across the mud. The dark silhouette of a wolfs jowls formed as blood seeped from the leg. The invisible wolf. The other soldiers fired at the beasts. The fast one evaporated and reappeared with its jaws around another kill. The grotesque one leapt on a soldier, bullets dropping from its hide. The invisible one ripped out the throat of the soldier it had dragged. Its mouth snatched onto the next person. There was a sadness in Evans mind as he watched this. Hed worked so hard to keep from killing, and he knew that these enforcers could be just like Luna or Cranston C misguided at first, and human all the same. He hoped theyd run away, surrender, leave them alone so that not another person would die. He had no hate for these soldiers. He hated those who put them here. He sought not to kill. He sought only to protect. He would forgive. He would forget. But he would not let those he cared for die in the place of oppressors any longer. Seek to redeem, be ready to defend. Desperately, the remaining soldiers formed into a circle of five, with the flamethrower soldier taking a forward position. The drones made a perimeter around Feds. Great bursts of fire unleashed from the flamethrower and engulfed the grotesque wolf. The flames seared its flesh. It ran to the cover of a tree. The fast wolf tried to charge again, but the drones emitted a wall of energy that surrounded the soldiers, and the fast wolf snagged on to the force field, rippling with electricity. Its corpse dropped to the ground in a twitch of shock. Dissolving the force field, one of the drones dispersed a volley of small projectiles that embed into the surrounding brush and trees like porcupine quivers. Evan and Blink squeezed behind the tree before they could be hit. Looking back, Evan saw blood spurt from the air and drip down the sides of the invisible wolfs hide as it dropped to the ground. Unauthorized usage: this tale is on Amazon without the author''s consent. Report any sightings. The grotesque wolf was all that was left, licking its wounds, unable to regenerate faster than the fire could burn it. It looked out and met Evans wincing eyes. Hed been wrong, underestimating the Feds yet again. Getting more Afflicted killed in his goal to save his people. Thats what they were. Creatures with strange gifts, simply trying to survive, and Evan led them to slaughter. He could save the animal. He could run out there, destroy the flamethrower, and disintegrate the drones. Hed turn the soldiers into dust. Hed do it for everyone hed failed. Hed kill for them. He stepped out to help it. Blink pulled him back down. You cant. He slipped back from her. Evan, you cant. The Feds will think the wolves were what they were tracking this whole time. If you attack them, theyll know theres more Afflicted and call for reinforcements. She was right. He could do nothing but watch as the Feds encircled the animal; it was now backed up against the tree. It snarled defiantly at its predators. A final explosion of flame consumed the creature and returned it to dust. Evan slid down to the ground, defeated. How was he supposed to fight this war? Was there any way to do it without sacrificing others, and without sacrificing who he wanted to be? One of the enforcers said over a radio, I think we found out who triggered the drone sensors. Freaky beasts. Lets clear everything out. Run another scan, just in case, another said. Evan and Blink readied themselves. After a moment of scanning, the drones cooed peacefully. Were good. Lets get our guys back home. Take the beasts too. Monolith might want them. The drones emitted large beams that shrouded all the dead, both soldiers and wolves, and lifted them into the air with magnetic propulsion. The Federation soldiers left as fast as they had come. Only blood, bullet shells, and ash were left behind. ***** When Evan and Blink returned to the team, the heat in the room had leveled. Nyla had been transferred into the cell with Andrea. Her eyes were closed, and she sweat like a stick of dynamite laid out on melting ice. Her hand was intertwined with Andreas. They breathed at the same pace. Whats going on? Evan asked. Vihn sat next to the two. He stared in their general direction with his white eyes. Looks like Andrea can still use her powers, wherever her minds at. Shes helped calm Nyla down for now, but she still needs to release her powers. Thank you, you two. You guys pulled the Feds off our trail long enough for Rowic to block the drones scanners. That explained why the Feds hadnt detected them. Evan walked over to the tables. He reached for Andreas hand, but nothing happened. Is Nyla going to be ok? Evan asked. Vihn shrugged. Andreas keeping her stable. Shell be fine if we can find a place for her to use her powers. Cranston, additional creases in his skin from bruises and cuts making him look older, leaned forward in his chair. Now what? Looking around the room, there was a palpable exhaustion amongst the rebels; Andrea unconscious, Nyla ready to explode, Cranston battered. Plus Vihn blinded, nearly out of flowers, and missing an arm. Rowic sat disheveled, and Daniel rubbed his head repetitiously, muttering to himself nonstop. Blink and Twitch leaned weakly against a wall together, their matching cross necklaces clinking dully against each other. What spirit was left? Rowic cleared his throat. We can go to Florida. The others looked at him like hed finally snapped, except for Cranston whose jaw tightened knowingly. Florida? Daniel asked, Hurricane, under the sea, no one left - Florida? Rowic sighed, Yes. Blinks eyes widened. Is there, like, some sort of hidden base flooded under the water? Rowic nodded hesitantly. Theres been a secret base in Florida, this whole time? Evan asked. Kind of, Cranston interjected. Theyre part of a different group. We havent associated with them since Unification Day. Daniel snapped his fingers, Man, youre talking about the deserters? Cranston raised an eyebrow, a deserter himself. Why dont you associate with them anymore? Evan asked. Rowic shook his head. It doesnt matter. Theyre our only hope. It does matter, Cranston said. If theyve been keeping up with the propaganda and news, theyll know that Joseph Krows been actively chasing us. Theyll shoot us down before we get to their base if they think were trailing a purifier behind us. You dont know that. I do My sister is one of them. Rowic swallowed dryly. The rest of the group sat in silence. Blink shrugged. What other option do we really have? Vihn cleared his throat and said, We kill Krow. Nyla swore. Ok, now youve lost your mind. We can do this. Vihn stood tall, reeking with vigor instead of alcohol. This is it. Weve ran, weve hid, and now we fight. Theres nothing left to lose, except by giving up and making the deaths of our friends meaningless. Daniel scoffed. We could, like, lose our lives still. Maybe I dont want to give that up just yet. Our lives? What about the lives of everyone who died in Alpha? What about Jecks life? Lunas. Zacharys. Ken. Did they die just so that you could cower and run? Vihn spit on the floor. They died so that we could have this chance. We know where Krow is, and we have the way to kill him. He turned to Evan. Come on, what do you say? This is it. This is your chance. It was then that Evan finally realized who Vihn was. That man, that old stranger, was him. Someone who had tried to fight, tried to do the right thing, and led people who relied on him to their death. He had tried to use his powers to help others; he had tried and failed and got them killed. Dozens of friends, families, and strangers C dead because of his choices, just like Evan. For Vihn, it was his squad mates. For Evan, it was Luna. For Vihn, it was the people hed tried to protect that night of Unification Day. For Evan, it was Zachary and the people of Alpha C or perhaps both blamed themselves for the deaths of Alpha base. Vihns sister had trusted him, and she died for it. Her baby died for it. For Evan, it had been his mom and Ken. Vihn betrayed by a lover, Evan betrayed by his father. Maybe Vihn was right. The only way to survive was to make sure the enemy didnt. Joseph Krow and his father would chase the rebels down, tear them apart, burn everything that was good until there was nothing left. This was Evans moment to do the right thing. To end it. But he wouldnt sacrifice others to do it, not anymore. If his friends wanted to escape to Florida, then Evan would help them, but he was done running. Evan addressed the team. We dont need to kill Krow. We just need to sabotage his ship, so we have enough time to escape. Vihn gave an uncertain glare. Evan stared him back in the eye, hoping the rebel would pick up on Evans true intentions. Think about it, Evan continued. We infiltrate the ship, disable it, and escape before they can do anything about it. Vihn shook his head. Thats still running away. Cranston stood up to him. Its keeping us alive, sir. Thats what matters. Vihn surrendered his ground. Fine. Thats the plan, then. He gave Evan a discreet nod. He understands then. The real plan is for everyone to fly away to Florida, while Vihn and I kill Krow. 35: "Last Life" Wake up, kid. Evan stirred awake. Vihn knelt over him and whispered, Lets go. This was it. One last push to make up for all the mistakes Evan had made. His life for everyone else. He grabbed his brown jacket, slipped on his backpack, tightened his watch, and strode past the greyish figures of the crew that slept on the floor. He and Vihn made it out through the tunnel before the Sun could breach the sky. He tugged his coat closer to shield against the morning cold. They slunk into the trees. It had rained the night before, covering the grass in a glistening coat, rising with a musky odor. It didnt take long for them to reach the Jeep covered under blankets of overgrowth. The plants peeled back with a swipe of Vihns hand. He popped the door open and ignited the engine. Are you sure youre ok driving? Evan asked. Vihn frowned. Huh? You know Evan. Theres nothing I could do with two arms that I cant do with one. Getting in or what? Your eyes. Vihn waved his hand over his face. I can see the grass and trees well enough; Ive driven drunker than this before. Vihn, Evan said. The old stranger sighed. Alright, get in. Evan gladly took the drivers seat. Hed driven a few times C enough to keep from crashing, he was sure. Get the tablet from my bag and hook it up to the dash. Vihn tilted his head to the backseat. Evan did as he was asked. With some guidance, he was able to get the GPS working. It displayed as a small blue dot, their destination a much larger white one; Joseph Krows flagship. Vihns voice was like gravel as he said, It hasnt been that long since your dad left Alpha base, and Krows ship seems like its been in the area ever since the attack. Theres a good chance that your father is still with Krow. I know, Evan said. So, if the Governor and Krow are working together, hell have to go too. Evan clenched his jaw. I know. A fresh breeze spirited them forward as he accelerated the Jeep. Vihn nodded. There had been no shortage of people trying to use Evan C and he was quite aware that hed tried to use others all the same. Now it was time to layout his hand. Reveal the cards. No more secrets, no more conspiracies; just the closing of the game. He rolled Andreas vision back and forth in his mind, the bumpy terrain of the forest marginally rattling the mental ball. What a perfect lie it would have been for Andrea to show him a vision about his father betraying them. Itd be easy to dismiss, if not for that interview of his dad working with the Feds. Yet, false propaganda wasnt a fantasy either. The facts were that his father had orchestrated Evan to go to Dogma Isle, there Shwood and Krow attacked, and then thousands of rebels and Ken were killed. Plain. No more denials. No more running. No more failures. What a pretty day, Blink said, who was suddenly sitting in the back seat with her feet on the middle armrest. Vihn swore. Evan swerved, then swerved the other way, narrowly crashing the Jeep into a tree. Howd you find us? he asked. She shouldnt have come; she shouldnt be risking her life. Not anymore. Shed done more than enough in Evans eyes. She deepened her voice and wafted her fingers through the air. I can see all things, for my powers can sense the life forces of every being Ive touched. Really? No, you just stepped on my hand when trying to sneak out and I followed you. Its ok, I forgive you for not inviting me and stepping on me, she upturned her nose in mock disappointment. Im sorry for stepping on your hand. How was he going to get rid of her? Ah, its ok. I dont need em anyway. She joked, but her shriveled hand was a perfect example of why Evan had set out on his own. Unauthorized use: this story is on Amazon without permission from the author. Report any sightings. Vihn said, Youre not coming with us. Blink scoffed. Too late, man. You go back, and the rest of the team is gonna hold you down and tie you to the ship. Evan stopped the Jeep and twisted to face Blinks eyes. We have to do this on our own. Do what? He paused, uncertain if he should confess. Blink pulled her legs down to a crisscross, propped up her elbows on the center armrest (face very close to Evans), then rested her chin on her hands. Is this some sort of revenge kick? Some dramatic justice? Mr. Vigilante, lone wolf, kill the bad guy before your loved ones get hurt, kinda deal? His cheeks reddened. I dont want anyone else to get hurt because of my crap. Were going to find Krow and kill him. He tensed when he confessed the last part. He couldnt imagine shed understand. Shed forgiven the drug dealer that had abused her. What forgiveness could Evan conjure up for the men who killed his family and allies? She bobbed her head like she was mulling the flavor of a wine. She dropped her feet down. So, we drive until we find Krow, kick butt and figure out the truth, kick some more butt while being chased out of his ship C narrowly dodging bullets and explosions C until we dive into the sea, never to be seen again. But C then we crawl on to shore alive and unscathed. Mission accomplished? Uh I guess. She nodded. Itll require some improvisation, but thankfully you have a friend who can teleport through things. I can get us in and out, covert ops, super spy junk, she flashed that classic smile. He was surprised by the mischievous energy. You still want to go with me after what I said? Yes, she affirmed. Why? She shrugged. Ill never let someone I love do something stupid on his own. What about your brother? The rest of your team? Arent you leaving them? They arent the ones who need me right now. Besides, if this works, itll help them out more than anything else. He shook with disbelief. How can you say you love me? What do I have thats worth loving? You care about people. You carry everyones pain and suffering on your shoulders. You blame yourself every time someone close to you gets hurt. Heck, youd blame yourself even if someone youve never met got stung by a bee. Like, youre willing to go on this suicide mission to help save the rest of my family. Sure, theres a bit of selfish idiocrasy in it, but it comes from that part of you that wants to see people succeed and be safe. You want people to live, you want all of this hell to be defeated, and how in the world could I not admire that about you, Evan? He couldnt someone could show such faith in him like she did. He didnt think he deserved it. Thank you that she exists, he prayed. He took in a deep breath, straightened himself in his chair, and said, Alright. Lets do it. Yes! She clapped. But buckle your seatbelt at least! Sir, yes sir. She snapped the buckle into place. Vihn scowled. Blink we may not be coming back from this. Sheesh, youre a real dark fellow, you know? Blink rolled her eyes. How did you plan on getting into the flying fortress full of guns, anyway? He shook his head. Shes right, Vihn, Evan said. Fine. Blink giggled. I have an idea. Its a stupid plan, are you sure you want to do it? Evan smiled. I trust you. She smiled back. Thats sweet of you. I think my plan might get us killed. Isnt that exciting? ***** The flagship ruptured the air with its great engines. Like an old zeppelin, its almond shaped hull glided across the sky with waves of heat like a cloud of metal. It was a whale, dominating the blue sea, a leviathan compared to the rest of the fish in the seaweed forest below. But Evan, Vihn, and Blink were no ordinary fish. They were killer whales, here to devour the great monstrosity. They simply needed to make their ascent. Yeah, Im not sure about my plan anymore, thats a bit higher than I expected, Blink said as she squinted up at the ship passing in front of the Sun. She brushed against Evan as she leaned over the seats. He liked the feeling, but pulled back, trying to act like a normal person. Everything thats happened, and you still get all weird around your friend just because shes a girl, and genuinely wonderful person? Evan ground his front teeth. Well, he sighed, it has to land eventually to refuel, right? Vihn shook his head. If it did, itd probably be somewhere high profile, and certainly better guarded. The things basically an aircraft carrier, and theyve equipped it to be able to stay afloat for a while before refueling. So, what was your original plan? Blink asked. I was going to get us captured, and wed sneak aboard. It wasnt like we could take Ad Astra; itd be shot down before it ever got close enough. Her face squelched up. Yeah? And what would you do after they handcuffed you? Or shot you on the spot? Im going to ignore that comment about the handcuffs. Vihn chuckled. Was that an attempt at humor? Ok then, just teleport us up there already. I could But without knowing where Im going, we could all end up materializing inside a wall, or inside a person. Gross, Evan muttered. Kinda. Youve done it before, Vihn said impatiently. Blink nodded. Yeah, that didnt go so well. We ended up in the middle of a group of enforcers. Then its my plan, Vihn prepared one of his plant vials Wait, Evan said as he leaned against the windshield and pointed up at a small hovercraft that departed from the flagship. Lets just take one of those. We can use it to get up to the flagship. Evan directed his finger to another hovercraft as it descended to a landing pad further down the hill. Several crew and soldiers left the craft and entered a building, leaving it mostly unguarded. Vihn bobbed his head. After you, kid. Im with you, Evan, Blink said. Evan took a deep breath. Ok, lets go. He plunged out of the Jeep. He would have tumbled down the hill, but Blink grabbed his arm and Vihns and teleported them behind a small rock formation a few feet away from the checkpoint. It was easy enough to wait for an opening and sneak aboard the ship, but the real problem was evident when they approached the controls; the keys were nowhere to be seen. Cant you do some hotwire thing? Evan asked Vihn. This isnt the Jeep. If we had Rowic Vihn cocked his head up. Then we wait, Evan said. The hid in the storage space below the floor grating until the pilots and crew finally returned hunched over with crates. The boxes clunked as they were set on the floor above Evan and his companions. The ship rumbled and swayed, taking them up into the heavens. 36: "The Twisted Knife" then he jerked awake, strapped to a chair in a medical room with a wide array of monitors and aluminum walls surrounding him. What happened? Evangelos said a grumbling voice that snapped Evan to his senses. He was here. The silver backed behemoth that was Krow. The purifier stood no more than a dead bodys length away. Evan noted this, so that thered be space when the goliath came crashing down. How Evan muttered. Tranquilizers. They can produce memory gaps. Mostly pointless, they make interrogation harder. Prefer to eliminate the hostile instead. But you are a special case, he said. Things came back to Evan in pieces. The original plan had failed. Evan and his companions had infiltrated the ship, but it did not take long for the Feds to find them. They had half expected as much, but they had also hoped for more time to find Krow or the Governor before being surrounded. Getting captured had seemed unavoidable in this flying fortress. So, his team had formed a new plan: get captured on purpose. There was little chance that they would have made it through the onslaught of soldiers, drones, and hardened security points themselves. No, better to be arrested and brought close than to eat a dozen bullets. Now, Evan was directly across from his target C far easier than if theyd committed to fighting their way here. Not to mention how exhausted they would have been. This way Evan had his full energy. He just needed to shake off this groggy feeling from the tranqs, make sure his companions werent in harms way, and then hed deal the killing blow to the beast called, Joseph Krow. It was other worldly to be so close to the purifier again. Theyd not been this distance since Hazard Station. Two selves battled inside of Evan. One wanted to cower, and the other who wanted to kill. The corner of Krows lips twitched, and his oscillating pupils zoomed and scanned Evan. Meandering creature. Destructive as cancer, he growled. Evan smiled. Very grumpy. Out of bananas? Krow smirked. Humor. An odd juxtaposition, considering your position. Maybe you forget reality, he directed his eyes to something besides Evan. It was a motionless Blink. A black device was strapped around her head that covered the top half of her face C a virtual reality headset. A collar looped around her neck and pulsed with a blue light. What is he doing to her? Evan steadied himself, anger and fear manifesting within him again. He had to be in control if he was going to best Krow. Lets keep our heads about us, the purifier said. Evan ground his teeth. What did you put around her neck? A precaution. If she leaves the room, it will explode. If you attempt to remove it, it will explode. No more teleporting. No more running. No more hiding. He pointed to Evan. Do not worry, you were not forgotten. Evan could barely make it out from his peripherals, but he felt the cold metal, and heard the faint coo of its machinery. Could he remove it with his powers fast enough? Maybe. But he doubted Krow would rely on this trick if he wasnt certain, it was checkmate. If you spot this tale on Amazon, know that it has been stolen. Report the violation. Evan asked, Why dont you kill us? Whats the point of going through all this? The purifiers jaw set with a hungering grin. To prove a point. What point? Humans are meaningless to Afflicted. We are human, you sick C. Did I say, Krow stepped closer to Evan, and closer still, until his burning breath was on him, you were not? You are a mammal. You exhibit the traits of humans. But there is something additional to you, and your kind. Cancer. Leprosy. An infection is on you. I smell it. I see it. I look at you, and I look at a disease. A disease that kills. Evangelos was born human, but Evangelos became sick. Sickness needs a cure, and I am it. He stood straight, his head a few inches from the ceiling. I can kill you. But I want more. I want to eradicate this virus, in any, in all, in every form. I need the source, and Evangelos will lead me to it. Evan spat at Krows feet. Sorry, hope you dont catch my sickness. Krow raised what would have been an eyebrow if such hair was there. I cannot gain the Affliction, and I cannot give it to others. Only descendants of the infected can spread it to their kin. Only by lineage, genetics, a chain of birth. That is my point. Afflicted will put themselves above anyone, everyone, if it means survival. Cancer, using a host. Afflicted, using the Federation C a nation that had given you everything C spat on, when it showed mercy. What mercy? Rounding up kids, putting them in torture prisons, experimenting on them until they shriveled up? Squashing a mans head for nothing? Evan said. Zachary Stenson, D5-1002. Kenneth Doleson Jr., B2-1843. One was a traitor, a killer. The second could give back to the Federation, but Spat. On. It. Saliva dribbled from Krows lips, plinking against his armors collar. Evangelos Hendricks Junior, B3-1984. Killer of many. Free men, civil servants friends and family. A murderer, from the day you were taken by your Affliction. You dont know anything about me. Krow simply recited, Kegan White, Alondra Vass, John Paul, and Nessa Hu. Those names, which Evan had never heard, stopped him cold. Hazard Station. They had a mission of protection, and you murdered them. You spilt their blood, never having known their names, never knowing their families. There were others, I could name them. You traded your life for theirs. For their kids. They wouldnt have killed you or your friend, but they would have protected us from you. You could have contributed. But you killed. That is what you are. That is what the Afflicted are. You cannot choose, can never learn. Your kind never accepts the truth and continues to be selfish. There is no safety while your genetics continue to infect us. You will never care for a non-Afflicted the way you do for yourselves, never feel true remorse, never repent. Do not say you would. If you were ever sorry, you would not have run that day I came for you. If you were sorry, you would have given yourself over. You would have spared the lives of everyone who died in Hazard Station. You would have spared the lives of Dogma Isle, and the lives of your putrid city of corruption. You would have spared Kenneth, and your mother Laura But you didnt. So, I will not spare you. Krow cracked his neck and stomped toward the exit. Evan yelled after the purifier, the guilt welling up in him. Then kill me already. If Im so evil, why dont you kill me? I wont tell you about my friends, Ill never give them up. I love them, and I hate you, and everything you stand for. Youre scared, thats all you are. Scared of something you dont understand and cant control. Youre just afraid that youll be obsolete, that youll be powerless one day, that youll be the one rounded up and killed for being different. Guess what? You didnt even try to understand us. You didnt try to give us a chance. It was easier to make us your enemy than to learn how to love us. Youre sick. Krow stopped for a moment and turned his head. I will kill you. But not yet. You are a trial, a final test. Test for who? Soon. With that, the monster left. Before Evan could say or do anything further, a hissing noise came from his above his head, and he was swept into darkness once again. 37: "Revelations” A tide rippled back and forth along a coast of glistening white sand. Evan looked at his bare feet embedded in the course hot surface C or at least it should have been course and rough. It smelled of sea, but otherwise there was only his sight and a phantom connection to the other senses associated to the beach. This was a VR prison. It was like standing in a dream, walking without gravity. Instead of moving with each step, the beach shifted underneath Evan like walking on a treadmill. He was also closer to the ground than normal, shorter, existing in a younger version of his body. This place was familiar. Yes it was his home. The old one. The one he hadnt seen since his terrible birthday party. It toed the ocean, raised by cross hatched wood. It was more real than his memories of it. Memories one stood before him. There. A man in swimming shorts, hair loosely combed back, watching over the fickle tide with an easiness about him. Dad? Evan croaked; his voice modulated as if speaking through a computer microphone. The man twisted his gaze toward Evan. It was him. The Governor. The betrayer. Father. Evan he said. He took a step toward Evan. Evan took a step toward his dad. Step. Step. Step. Step. They faced off against each other but what would become of it? An embrace, or the cracking of fist to jaw? Neither. I saw you, Evan finally started; fear, hate, love - all mixing in him like paints that spiraled into the air and splashed to the ground. I saw you on a camera, and from Andreas visions You gave up Alpha base you tricked us. Gave us up to Shwood, and he tried to kill us. Why? Why His father sighed and looked upon Evan with reddened eyes. To protect you. Always to protect you. No. No, you cant make this about me. Youre a murderer. Youre the monster, not me. Youre right, son. I am a monster I am a sinner. But I have done it all for you. Ill tell you the truth. All of it. Hate seized Evans chest. What truth? Everything When I came to the Federation, I was nothing, just a refugee trying to survive the war between my home nation and this new one. My family barely survived. Our last name used to be something else, I cannot remember what, I was so young. All I remember was my father telling me we were now Hendricks. He named us that so we would not be so obvious as refugees on our documents. Many others from my country were found and killed by angry mobs, or deported back to the war-torn land, but my family survived because of my fathers plan. It was then that I realized that survival was worth the cost, whatever it may be. As I grew older, I studied hard, and eventually found myself in a respected position manufacturing and selling weapons technology for Monolith Industries. The same weapons company that was bombing my home country. It was at Monolith where I met your mother, and we married shortly after that. Evan couldnt force himself to tear away from his fathers words. How? How could this man speak in such a way that made him listen? Look at him in such a way that stifled the corpses and the blood, and brought memories of love? I was there, Evan. I was there when Monolith discovered the impossible. Titan Project it was meant to be a bioweapon to help end the war vs. the South, a poison. But rebels, the same rebels youve worked with, sabotaged the facility People died in the explosion, yes, it was the radiation that leaked out with the bioweapons vapors that created the Affliction. Everyone in the city either died in the explosion, the rapid mutations, or the chaos of hundreds of thousands of superhumans spontaneously developing powers all at once. I wish that your mother and I could have been spared. We almost were, for we were miles out of the main city. We didnt develop the mutation, but our offspring would. The Federation discovered this pattern in many of the people who were near there that day. I knew this might happen, and I had made a deal with a friend, Brutus Brushwood. Hed help cover up where we had been during the incident, and in exchange I would help him get a position in Monolith. Any lie, any deal to protect my family. Eventually, you would be born, and wed raise you. Your mother always worried, always talked and fretted about what you might become. Always I reassured her that it would be ok, but never was it enough, even when I had gained power as a politician, it was not enough. The Governor choked up. Evan was motionless, trying to process all this information, to understand the truth that he claimed to be telling. Father regained his composure, and continued, now sitting on a large rock, and staring out across the waters. I needed to make sure youd never be discovered if you ended up becoming Afflicted, or even if you were found out, that the right misdirection would be set in place to protect you. So, I found a kid, whose parents had been near the city on that day. I welcomed them into our family and kept his parents close. The Feds came for him like planned but then you saved him. Several times this would happen, the person Id orchestrated to take the fall for you, youd always save instead. This tale has been unlawfully lifted from Royal Road. If you spot it on Amazon, please report it. You You let me be friends with Ken, and adopted him, just so you could sell him out if I ever got exposed? It all made sense. Why the Feds had come for Ken on Evans birthday, and again at school when he was taken instead of Evan. It was sickening, and he crumpled to his knees. Still, he had not been prepared to hear the rest of his fathers confession. Yes, I groomed Ken to be your stand in. But that failed, and your powers were again exposed. In your place, I went to prison. I always tried to protect you, son. Then you returned the favor and rescued me. We had the chance to return to our life. I struck a deal with Shwood again. Hed watch over you while the Federation dealt with the rebels. Wed be in good favor with the government long enough for us to disappear and reform our life again. That included Ken. But Shwood had his own deal with the Feds, and I was recaptured and placed here, while you were to be handed off as well. I was thankful you had escaped but now, you are here, and I once again failed. Evan felt heat surrounding some aspect of him, not the virtual part, the real him. You killed them. You sent Krow to bring me back, you sold out the rebels, you put me and Ken in Shwoods hands. You killed Zachary, and Luna, and everyone at Alpha. You killed my brother. The vision stuttered for a moment, ripples of electrical static. Mom she called me monster, Dad. She hated me. It was me, wasnt it? If Id never been born. If Id never had powers, shed be alive. Theyd all be alive. I killed her, and I always tried to make up for it for nothing. The Governor took a deep breath. You didnt kill your mom. Wha? She was going to tell the doctors about you, the news, anyone who would listen. No, no She was going to bring them to you, send you away to prison, kill you. Hes not my son, she told me, Hes a monster. You were no monster Evan I would always protect my family. The revelation built up in Evan, clawing at his chest, trying to break in. He stepped back, horrified, repulsed by his father. Youre a liar. Why would I ever believe you? I couldnt let them take my son. I wouldnt let her take my son. So, I smothered her, and saved you, as I always have tried to do. Wha Evan felt the blood in his veins. His vision refracting with static and lines. Black walls flickered into his sight, green error text floating around from some alternate dimension. Why did you do all of this? Why? What kind of person does that stuff to people? What are they compared to my flesh? They are nothing and have always been nothing compared to you. I would kill, lie, steal, betray everyone if it meant you lived. I didnt ask for any of that. Youre the freaking monster. I want I want to kill you. The words dripped from Evans mouth. Because I killed for you? You have killed for yourself as well all those soldiers. Even now if you kill me, youve done no different. Those were accidents Im nothing like you. I didnt kill people in cold blood. Ive tried to redeem myself. The Governor spoke evenly, his features bearing the intensity of his nature, And youre a better man than me for it but what I did was necessary. If you manage to break free from here and defeat Krow or conquer the Federation C all of it would be possible because of what Ive done for you. The words tethered Evan. Was he just a creation of his father? A puppet controlled, and actions written for him? No. This man was not God, this man was a person, manipulative in all ways. It didnt matter what the Governor told him, he would make his decision because it was his to make, and what he thought was right. Evangelos, please. I am your family. My names Evan, and you killed my family. The world sputtered and cascaded in specs of corrupting data. He could feel the heat, the sensation of his body, the constriction of straps and wires. He sensed those ensnaring vines of copper melt away and his body become his again. His fingers dug into the machine around his head, and he flung the device across the room. The device around his neck was gone as well. Computers hissed at what he had done, biting at him with sparks from the coiled wires hed just emancipated himself from. A burning fume filled his nostrils and gagged him. An alarm blared in his ears. But once he had gathered himself, witnessing his real legs, arms, and the cold room of the airship, he then turned to Blink. With a flick of his hand, the neck device and VR around her head faded to dust. Krow had not been so prepared as hed seemed to think. Evan looked beyond Blink, and saw the Governor strapped to a similar chair, with his own collar and VR headset. Evan jumped to the floor, the sparking wires biting at his heels. A fire built up in him, and now he would let it drive him. The Governors chair melted, heated by Evans powers. The VR headset and collar sparked and blew away in a heap of thrashed metal. Now the mans face was bare, blinking profusely. He was old, grey hair, deforming skin. Ev-! Before he could speak, he was ripped from the seat into the air as Evans power filled the room. Evan willed the Governors molecules, crashing him into a wall, cabinets and computers warping like foil around him. The tile beneath him liquified like water. Finally, the Governor groaned in agony as skin tore from his outward facing cheek, exposing blood, then muscle, then bone. The mans clothes ripped apart, exposing his wrinkled form. He, who had been so powerful, was nothing but a weakly creature. He could be snapped in half. He could die here. As if he never existed. Then Blinks words hit Evan. I realized, looking at his crinkly old body; What was the point? So, I forgave him and moved on to try and help the people I loved instead. Evan looked back to Blink, strapped to her chair still. Her face was cut up by the whirling of energy that Evan emanated. Guilt washed over him. He let go and fell to the ground, along with the Governor, and sizzling wires, and the ash, and the dust. Stars overlaid his vision, his consciousness spun, but still he fought to hold on. The Governor sputtered and crawled across the floor until he could prop himself up against the back wall, which was warped and gnarled like melted wax. His hand covered the wound on his cheek. You are incredibly powerful. Evan looked back at this man, this weak man. He was ashamed that hed tried to kill him, that his powers had invertedly harmed Blink, and that hed almost became the monster his mother and Krow had called him. Maybe he couldnt save everyone, and maybe sometimes the means to save the meek was to defeat the strong, but vengeance would not guide him. Seek to redeem, be ready to defend. The Governor snapped, They arent your family, they arent your blood. Evan gritted his teeth, barely able to keep himself from losing consciousness again, and laying far closer to this man than he wanted to be. Thats why I love them. They are the family that I chose. That captured the Governor. His mouth quivered; the determination seeped away. Maybe it wasnt too late for salvaging his family. Maybe Evan could teach his father what hed learned about love. Maybe they could change the Federation together. Maybe. But then Death returned. The lab doors burst open in a blast of fire. A handful of Federation soldiers stormed into the room. One bent down to grab the Governor. Two others checked on Blink. The last one approached Evan, gun directed to his head. He called over the radio. The specimens are secured. Permission to execute? 38: "Hero" The gun barrel swayed back and forth, splitting into two unsteady duplicates, now three. Evans mental fortitude detached. The soldiers words were a muffled array of gibberish. Evan closed his eyes and accepted his fate. Bang! Evan twisted, his eyes open, the gunshot a fate for someone else. The Governor had wrestled a weapon from the soldier next to him, who lay bleeding on the ground. The soldier whose gun had been directed at Evan, flicked the barrel at the Governor. Evan lurched forward and tackled the soldier back, his stature and weak condition could only push him so far, but it was enough to throw the soldiers aim off. Gunfire racketed the roof. The two soldiers next to Blink dropped to the ground with a sputter of blood as the Governor shot them with the stolen rifle. Evan grappled the soldier in front of him, clutching the mans weapon. The black frame collapsed into itself as Evan clasped his hands through it with his powers. Kak! A bullet crunched through the last soldiers visor, felling him to the ground, dead. Evan stumbled backward, the Governor slouched across the room dropping the rifle, and cupping his torn cheek. He reached his other hand out to Evan. Ignoring his reach, Evan stared at the Governor, sickness in his gut. Why did you do this? Like I said, I refuse to watch my son be butchered. He made his way for the door. Evan relented. He didnt understand his father, and he wouldnt try. Instead, he ran to Blink and worked on unhooking her from the machine. The Governor said, We have to leave- Evan cut his fathers words off. I wont sacrifice the people I care about, not even to save myself. If she dies, I die. He did not turn to the Governor, focusing only on freeing his companion. Very well. The Governor sighed. It seems we are out of time, son. A hydraulic beat hissed from outside of the room. It was a familiar snake-like sting that sent chills throughout Evans spine. Another rhythm followed this one, a squeal that ramped up-tempo. Evans mind flashed back to the sewers in Dogma Isle. Bullets, fire, blood. He pulled Blink from the chair, her eyes lethargic from the sedation. The wall ripped open in a spree of holes as bullet fire shunted through. Evan dove to the floor with himself wrapped around Blink. The chairs burst into pieces, the computer screens shattered, and bullets zipped into the Governors body. One. Two. Three. The man bent over backward until his head hit the floor. Something ripped into Evans shoulder, sending fiery pain throughout his nerves. He cried out in agony, but still he dedicated his body to shielding Blinks. The gunfire ceased. Light rays pierced through the holes in the wall. A voice rumbled from beyond it. Governor Hendricks, due to your murder of Federation personal, cooperation with terrorists, and confession of concealing an Afflicteds identity, execution is marked as sufficient punishment for your breach of law. He paused for a moment. I can see your breathing, Joseph Krow growled, make it easy and scurry out here like the pests you are. The Governor lay next to Evan, gurgling. His eyes fell to him. He pointed a bloody finger to the back of his head and mouthed the word, Machine. The wall crumbled as Krows thick armor broke through it. He towered over Evan and grinned with his menacing teeth. The end. Evan sucked in a deep breath. If this was the end, he wouldnt fear it. With confidence, he stared into the twisting amber eyes of the purifier, those calculating things, defiant to the end. The machine! The Governor yelled. Krow twisted to him and raised the barrel of his wrist machine gun. Evan saw it, what the Governor had meant, a panel embedded in the back of the purifiers head. Krows augmented brain. Evan shot his arm out, as if he was grasping the panel between his fingers. It dented and crumpled with the squeezing of his hand. The halo above Krows head materialized into a helmet. But the damage had been done. Krows head jittered as if he were a broken animatronic creature. An automated voice broadcasted from his armor. Initializing neurological failsafe. The twitching stopped, and the behemoth raised his gauntlet to Evan, igniting with blue energy. Radiant light took up Evan, and he appeared in the hallway behind Krow. Blink jumped up. Come on! Evan snagged onto something. It was the Governors hand; he must have grabbed onto Evan just as Blink was teleporting them away. Evan yanked himself away from his fathers grasp. Krows thick frame twisted to them. Come on, Evan! Blink reached out for him. The temptation to leave his father wasnt lost on Evan, but he couldnt abandon the man, not like this, not to the fate of the butcher. He grabbed both the Governor and Blink, and they were taken up in a blur of light. They smacked against a wall as they reappeared in a hallway. He dropped his hands to the Governors chest and did his best to close the bullet wounds with his power. The flesh knitted together well enough, but Evan knew hed still be dealing with internal bleeding from whatever damage the bullets had caused to him. Why he was trying to save his fC the Governor C hed have to figure out later. We need to find Vihn, Blink said. She helped Evan lift the Governor. She was already sweating. If they werent careful about teleporting, something might not make it one hundred percent intact. The Governor croaked, Hes in a similar room. Where? Evan asked. The Governor pointed a shaking finger down the hall, back the same direction they had come from, where Krow blocked their path. Fortunately, he hadnt seen them yet, his hulking mass shifting like a reanimated corpse. Blink went for Evans hand again. Wait, he pulled them into a side corridor. You only have so many charges. We have to take turns using our powers if were going to have enough stamina to get out of here. Whats your plan, then? He handed the Governor over to her. Ill go for Vihn. If anything happens, you get out of here. Evan He embraced her, and she squeezed him back. Im going to be ok. We have to take turns saving each other, ok? He pulled away. Enjoying this book? Seek out the original to ensure the author gets credit. She nodded. Thank you. He turned to a wall and pressed his hand against it. He still didnt fully understand his powers, but what he did know was that heightened emotion amplified it, and he could stay conscious longer and regain his stamina quicker having practiced more. Some weight was lifted off him that had held him down. Maybe, it was because he realized the truth of who he was now. He was a defender. The man he thought was his hero was his villain. The man he thought was his villain, was just a pawn. Evan was no game piece; he was the player. The wall burst open. He sprinted through it. There was another wall. He thrust his fist forward, busting through the barrier like it was paper. Another wall, another punch thrown, and another pathway opened. What was in the room didnt matter. He was through the next wall before any soldiers or crew could react. Then he found him. Wires and computers snapped as Evan burst into the room where Vihn was strapped to a chair, with a similar VR headset and collar. Evan removed these things, but his adrenaline was fading. A surge of exhaustion hit him, and he dropped back against a cabinet and slid to the floor, his legs too weak to hold him up. Vihn twitched his head side to side, as if trying to break from his slumber. Finally, he blinked his eyes open and looked at Evan. Kid? Hey. His vision was fading, itd be so easy to sleep there on the flat tiling. Hold on. Vihn dropped from his chair, sticking his fingers to the back of his throat. The contents came up, including a very unfortunate looking couple of flowers. His eyes glowed as he placed one of them on his stump. It exploded into vines that formed an arm. He took the other flower and pressed it against Evans chest. Oh, man, that was in your stomach? Vihn huffed. Well, when you were busy getting us all captured C again CI had to think quick. Now shut up. The flower split into a bunch of tendrils that wrapped around Evan and glowed. He felt himself revive as the chemicals from the plant passed through his skin. Now on the side of consciousness again, Evan pushed himself off the floor. The plant shriveled away. Gah, man. Watch out! Vihn shoved Evan back to the ground as a burst of blue energy erupted from the wall behind him. Shrapnel and glass showered the room. In place of the wall was the purifier himself. We need to get to Blink! Evan shouted. Hold on. Vihn shot the tips of his vines into his feet. He let out a guttural cry as the impact sent blood out of his boot. Boom. The ship buckled with the rupture of some obscene explosion, dropping Vihn to the ground, and stumbling Krow. What was that? Evan rushed to help Vihn up. The rebel severed a part of his vines and wrapped them around his foot. While you and Ms. Positive were getting captured, I had time to set up a few explosives. Hid the detonator in my foot and downed some plants too before they captured me. Evan blew up the back wall and ran through the opening with Vihn. But why did you have to stab your foot to detonate it? Vihn frowned. It was in my foot. I cut a whole, slipped it in, healed it up. Stop asking questions, lets go. Alarms blared throughout the ship, followed by spinning lights. Hull breach. Engines critical. Prepare for listing. All crew, make for life rafts. Dang, Vihn, Evan said. Vihn whistled. Yeah, that worked out better than I planned. They hobbled down the hallways toward Blink. More explosions blasted the walls and rafters around them. It was fortunate that there were so many obstacles to block Krows fire. Still, the purifier persisted C shattering wall after wall. The ship groaned at the destruction. Evan grabbed the back of his head. Krows going to bring the whole thing down! This is his last desperate attempt to stop us, Vihn said. Blink slid out from a door and waved the two of them over to her. They grouped up in this small control room. The Governor was propped against some consoles, barely breathing. Blink smiled. I was able to use the tech here to reach Rowic. Phoenix One will be here with Addy any moment, we just need toC Vihn whipped his tentacles around the Governors neck, constricting, squeezing the little life he had left. Evan shoved Vihn to the ground, but the vines held their grip. Stop! Evan shouted. He killed them, Evan. He killed them all. I know! I know. Vihn faced him, the Governor still choking. Then kill him. This is why we came here. He killed your friends. He orchestrated it all. Hes the enemy! Hes our best chance to stop the Federation, he knows everything, Evan argued. But still, the rebel did not relent. Evan grabbed Vihns vines, bursting them into green mist. Fury filled Vihns eyes. He grabbed Evans neck with his hand, the grip siphoning the air from Evans lungs. You Blink kicked Vihn in the face. His hand dropped and Evan slid away, helped up by Blink. Vihn wiped blood away from his nose. What have you done? Killing the Governor wont bring anyone back, Evan said. Screw you, kid. You think I dont get that? I dont want them back, I want to avenge them, he spat. As long as theres someone like him living, theyll keep coming. Its us or them. Evan squared his shoulders. No. As long as we keep trying to kill them, theyll keep trying to kill us. Its a cycle, Vihn. They kill you, you kill them, and it repeats. You cant exterminate a people C you cant even exterminate an idea. All you can do is try and save the people you love. Outlast the enemy; beat them by removing the fragile supports that theyve built beneath it all. Right now, were going to outlast them. Were done here. Its over. Were leaving here alive, and well hit them again when its time. Jeck was right, you are a fool. Vihn grabbed a desk and pulled himself up. Hes right the Governor coughed. Krow will never show you mercy. Dont talk to me about mercy. Youre no better than Krow, you just pretend you are. Im not saving you because Ive let go. Im saving you because Ive been a killer too. Its time to end this cycle, and you are going to help make up for what youve done, Evan said. His father slumped. I wont murder people out of fear, or anger, or vengeance. But that doesnt mean I wont protect my family if they comes for them. That is Krows choice. Mine, is get us out of here before we all die. Internal gravity malfunction. The ground shifted suddenly, titling up. Again, Evan slid to the ground with the rest of the group as the floor took on a steep angle. The four of them were dumped from the room into a hallway and smacked flat against a wall. Gah! Evan shouted. Blink stretched her limbs over them all. The ships on its side, we gotta go. Wait, he studied her eyes. Are you sure about this? Yep! They teleported in a flash of light. Air rushed out like a great torrent and sucked the four of them toward a gaping maw in the side of the ship. Fire coughed out from machinery to the right of them, and they bashed against the ships hull. This is where I set the bombs! Vihn shouted to them, the moaning of wind and fire drowning his voice. Forests and rivers stretched out far below them, slowly growing closer as the ship lost elevation. Addy. Blink pointed to the ship as it skimmed below them, like a sparrow gliding across the air. They could make it with a few teleports. Evan looked at her. She seemed relatively ok, but he could tell by her rapid breathing that she might not have enough in her for the jumps. In fact, all three of them were spent. Which is why Krows appearance crushed Evans morale. Evan, Vihn, Blink, and the Governor lay near the gaping hole, big enough for all of them to fit through. A little distance from them was a boxy room where Krow stood like a statue on a great pedestal. His feet had appendages that crunched the metal beneath them. As the ship listed and Evans crew slid further down, Krow stayed in place C a spider observing the flies caught in its web. One of his eyes flickered from amber to black, while the other zoomed and rotated on its own. Whatever Evan had done to him had been enough to disrupt Krows augmented functions. Bugs on a win dow, Krow said with twitching lips. He powered up his fist and fired a blast at the group, connecting just above their heads and ripping through the metal they lay on. A great grasp of air swept Blink, Vihn, and the Governor out into the open sky. Evans heart dropped C caught safely as he saw Blink teleport to Vihn and the Governor, and then away C hopefully to Ad Astra below. This was his moment. Evan threw himself through the hole. He should have fallen like the rest of his team had. But he didnt. The ship jolted just as he tried to move, sending him back from the hole. Krow peered down at him from his perch, the barrel of his wrist gun directed to Evans head. Evan threw out his hand, trying to rip apart the purifiers armor with his powers. The armors bond was strong, masterfully woven together, and Evans will had been spent. Purify. The barrel ignited. Bullets flew. Evan screamed, flicking his hands at the machinery to the left of Krow. It exploded in a great ball of fire, ripping away the wall Evan lay on. He flipped into the open sky. The ship was above him now, its side erupting again with a greater explosion of smoke plumes and mushrooms of fire. Something else dropped from that ship. Free falling. A man. A machine. A purifier. Plummeting like a meteor, down, faster than Evan, dragged by the weight of his armor. Joseph Krow crashed through dirt and rock, cratering the surface of the Earth. Evan continued to fall, through the free air, away from the detonating ship, closer to his death. Light faded, but Evan focused on the crater as his breath seeped away, his mind strung out. If there was one thing he needed to see, one thing he need to know Was it over? Down, Down, Down, In a crater of dirt, his pieces stain, Chest, Arm, Face, Many splintered red parts; Joseph Krows brain. 39: "The Heart" - Book 1 End Why should I be the one to save others? Why should I be the one to help? Why should I care what happens to my neighbor? Because, If I dont do it, then who else will? ***** Evans eyes cracked open. His body was stiff. Heavy vibrations shook where he lay. It was a familiar place, with curved metal walls and circular windows. He was in Ad Astra, lying across one of its benches. He cocked his head back. Blink sat next to him, sleeping; deservedly. Cranston and Nyla were asleep on the opposing bench, their heads propped against each other. Andrea lay next to them with straps around her, still comatose as she was when Evan had left them. Rowic and Daniel could be seen piloting the ship through the cockpit doorway. You lived, huh? Vihn asked. He was at the far end of the bench. His eyes drooped to that old picture of Farfa in his hand. I guess I did. Evans arms quivered as he sat himself up. His head ached, as did his legs, and his chest, and just about everything else. You too? Vihn faced him, his stump twitching. You tell me. Still breathing? I suppose. Can you walk? With a limp. See any white lights? Only sometimes. Evan shrugged. Seems like you lived to me. Vihn smirked. I guess I did. Evan planted his feet on the humming floor and his eyes drifted down. There was a mound of something covered by a black tarp at the center of the ship. It all came back to Evan; his mind replaying all the parts as it always did, trying to separate the dreams from the memories. Mostly nightmares, but some good bits mixed in. He thought about what was under the tarp. It wasnt hard to guess. He didnt make it, did he? Vihn shook his head. Died on his own. So, thanks for taking that from me. You think that if youd have been the one to do it, youd feel better? This tale has been pilfered from Royal Road. If found on Amazon, kindly file a report. He shrugged. Then he gave a lighthearted chuckle. Geeze, kid. Krow. You killed him in the end, like we had planned. So, what was all that about stopping me from killing the Governor? How was that any different? Evan rocked his head as he processed out loud. I thinkC I know, it was different. I wasnt angry at him anymore. I think I understood who he was. Someone who lost a lot of people he cared about. He just wanted to stop the pain, like I did. I couldnt fault him for that It was what he did about it that was all wrong. At the end, I didnt want to kill him, I realized I just had to defend my new family. Maybe everyone else gets high off vengeance, but I decided I wasnt going to fall into that. Seek to redeem, be ready to defend the ones I love. So, protect your family at any cost? No. That was what my father did. Hmph. So, what do you do when its a choice between your family or someone else? You going to let the other guy hurt them? No. Then what, kid? I dont get it. Evan pondered the question. He wished he could figure out the perfect answer. But he did come up with, Ill defend my family. Ill defend my friends. Ill defend those who cant defend themselves. But I wont defend evil. I wont let evil break the innocent. See, the part that gets messed up is what people define as evil or good. I cant always know the right answer. But what I do know is that love is good, and love is whats worth protecting. If I love, and I welcome what is love, then that is what is right. I think, maybe theres some love in everyone, something thats worth fighting to pull out of that person. Its just, sometimes you do have to choose. Sometimes that person stamps out the love. Sometimes they go too far, and whats inside becomes hate, and they come for you and what is good. So, they must be stopped. Not out of anger, or hate, or righteousness, or vengeance. Out of defense, and always with a heart behind the shield, to be ready for when the evil fades away and the human is left abandoned. I want to be ready to welcome them back from death. That is how we heal. That is how we get past the cycle. Let the past die, forgive, rebuild. Vihn was silent for a time, until he put the photo away and said, I dont know if I agree with you, kid. But I cant argue with your conviction. I dont know if you have to agree with me. Ill try to do what I believe is right regardless. Evan stood and placed his hands in his pocket. He was pleasantly surprised to find both his and Kens IDs still there. We did it buddy. We beat them. Thank you. Evan knelt next to the tarp on the floor, where the Governor lay, and pealed it back to see his face. There he was, the decaying man who had once been whole, as all men were. He once held a power that Evan thought could never fade away, but maybe that seemingly invincible power had just been a part of the deception as well. A door opened at the front of the airship, and out walked Twitch. His smile almost as bright and positive as Blinks. His face pealed back with shock and excitement when he saw Evan. He waved him over. Evan grinned, and put the tarp back over his father, ready to move on, accepting all that had come. He followed Twitch to see what he was trying to show him. Evan teared up when he saw it. On the wall of the ship was a bunch of rough sketches and paint doodles of people, with names written under them. Zachary, Jeck, Luna, Alpha Ken. Evan smiled. Thank you, buddy. Twitch patted him on the back. For once, Evan knew what he should do next. He reached into his pocket and pulled out the two IDs. These little pieces of metal that had been with him since the beginning of this whole mess. But now, it was time to let the past rest. He used his power to fuse the IDs to the wall at the base of the mural, said a prayer over his friend, and left them there. Not forgotten, but finally let go. Evan rejoined Blink who had just woken up. Together they stared out of the ships windows, music warming their ears while Ad Astra soared high above the sandy beaches below, over bright blue waves, toward the rising Sun C a fiery leaf falling into the next life. THE END