The Infiknights

Hamilton, The Infiknights
The Infiknights Prelude I had no idea that in exactly twenty-four hours from now, Id be on the highway in a rickety old van, running from men who wanted to kill me. I never wouldve imagined one of my best friends bleeding to death in the back seat, being operated on by a complete stranger. And if you wouldve told me that tomorrow Id have superpowers, I would have laughed. Boisterously. Of course, what normal person would dream up such an impossible situation at 12:34 p.m.? Nobody would. Instead, I stood adjacent from the soccer goal, mixed in with a bunch of sweaty, hormone-enraged teenagers, not thinking about anything aside from how much I hated life right then. I could be spending my summer at the pool or even at the arcade. But some strange demon, straight from the eighth circle of Hell, decided to possess me and make me responsible by signing myself up for summer school. Now here I was, enduring another brutal session of physical education with my favorite drill sergeant, Coach Besch. Alright, maggots! He barked in his southern draw at the unenthused mob in front of him. He paced back and forth menacingly, eyeing each student carefully. Your assignment for today will be an easy one. It is Friday, an I am a generous man. You will divide yourselves into two teams. You will be competin against one another. To the death. That was a joke. The teams will line up on either side of this goal, an you will each dribble this here ball, he held up a grass-stained soccer ball, Across the field an around the cones that I have went to the trouble of meticulously placing in strategic locations, so if you happen to kick the cone an not the ball, I will blow my whistle in your faces. First team to get all their men to the other side wins, and is exempt from the usual hundred pushups at the end of class. Am I understood? Coach Besch stopped pacing and observed the glazed-over faces.
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I said, AM I UNDERSTOOD?! Two-thirds of the students jumped, and a younger girl let out a squeal. Either that, or a small dog was stepped on. It sounded the same. Yes sir! The response was unanimous. Besch popped his shiny silver whistle in his
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mouth and gave it a puff. Good. Now you have twelve seconds to divide yourselves evenly, I repeat, evenly, into two different teams. Failure to complete this task will result in me placing you in a team that does not contain your friends. So no lollygagging. He blew his whistle once more, creating an earsplitting screech. I dont know why I blew that. He began counting down. The crowd of students in gym clothes swarmed towards the goal, splitting off into lines on both sides of the goal. An arm reached out from the herd and tugged on the sleeve of my shirt. Come on, Aiden. I dont want a whistle blown in my face. My best friend, Demetri Hill, began towing me towards a line. He was flanked by my other two closest friends, Lili Montague and Xavier Lancing. Lili flashed me a grin, and Xavier rolled his eyes. Help me out here, man, Demetri teased, still yanking on my arm. Id throw you over my shoulder, but Id hate to show the world how much of a lightweight you really are. I shook him off and threw a punch at him, laughing. Id blow my rape whistle if you did, I chuckled. You know who has rape whistles? Lightweights. Five. Four. Coach was staring at his wristwatch with a bored expression on his face. The four of us shared a grin, then I tore off towards the nearest line, my friends right behind me. We looked at each other and laughed at how out of shape we were; we were panting heavily after that short run. Truth be told, we could look at each other and laugh at pretty much anything. Id
known these guys since pre-school, and ever since, wed been together through thick and thin. It was strange though. For a couple of kids who had so much in common, we looked nothing alike. I had long brown hair, a lanky teenage build, and bright blue eyes. Demetri had short,
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messy brown hair, and the body of a Hollister model. He was always good with women, and it was rare to see him out without a girl attached to his arm. Lili was, quite frankly, drop-dead gorgeous. It seemed to happen overnight; her round toddler face turned into defined cheekbones with a hint of make-up, her short stature turned into a tall and picturesque figure, and her smoky green eyes turned into a seductive gray. And as if to complete the total package, she had long dark blonde hair that would touch the middle of her back, if she didnt always wear it up in her signature ponytail. Now Xavier was a different story. Up until about the third grade, Xavier had always been the social outcast; sitting by himself at lunch, reading a book in the corner at recess, and the like. He had always been teased by kids because of his skin color; Xaviers father was Caucasian, but his mother was African-American, which made his skin a light brown shade. One day, though, our little group saw him getting pushed around by the school bully, an obnoxious kid named Luca. We walked right up to Luca and beat the snot out of him. I can still remember the look on his face when Demetri held out his hand to a crying Xavier. Hi, Im Demetri Hill, but you can call me Demi, he said cheerfully. These are my pals, Aiden West and Lili Montague. Why dont you come play with us this next recess? All four of us, Demetri, Lili, myself, and Xavier, found ourselves in the principals office shortly after. And thats when it became written in stone. Since then, Xaviers shyness has evolved into hilarious wit and extreme intelligence, which is no surprise: his father is the head scientist at
BioGene, a laboratory headquartered right in the center of Springfield, Missouri, that focused on new and creative uses for genetic research. The line slowly moved up, as kids tripped and stumbled around the cones, getting
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whistles blown in their faces and grass stains on their knees. Can you tell whos winning? Lili muttered, sizing up the two teams which appeared to be pretty even for the most part. I really dont want to do those pushups. Especially not out here. Its like eight million degrees. It looks pretty even to me, Xavier answered, sizing up the two teams. But no worries, Demetri said. Once the Furious Four gets up to bat, well pretty much seal our teams glorious victory, one that shall go down in history books for ages to come! We all laughed at Demis proclamation, and the person in front of Demetri took off running with the ball. Our team was one person in the lead, but the guy that went ahead of Demi fell twice before he made it to the other side, so it was evened up by the time he got the ball. Demetri took off like some sort of running animal, like a cheetah, only not as graceful and not nearly as orange and polka-dotted. His muscles rippled under his shirt as he dominated the other player, finishing a good five seconds before his opponent. Lili was up next, but she wasnt as fast. One of the things that was awesome about Lili was that she wasnt girly. Well, she was, but just the perfect amount. She didnt run like a girl with her hands above her waist and in fists, she ran like a guy, like normal. She belched in public places and laughed about it, and she loved AC/DC. Unfortunately, it wasnt enough to win, and the other girl won the race. Next was Xavier. Despite his size, he moved pretty fast, and he and the boy he was racing were neck and neck. They circled around the cones and darted towards the finish. I glanced over at my opponent, who was jumping around on his side of the goal, punching the air as if
slaughtering a punching bag that didnt exist. I looked up at Demetri, whose shoulders were softly shaking with laughter at the display the boy was putting on, and rolled my eyes. Xavier and his opponent finished in a tie, and as a show of sportsmanship, Xavier held out his hand to
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give the boy a high five, which was returned with half of the peace sign. Now it was my turn. I swallowed hard. We were the last two racers of the drill, and if I lost, my team would more than likely slit my throat and hang my head from the flagpole. No pressure. I inhaled deeply and took off. The combination of keeping the ball between my feet and under my control was a lot harder than I thought it would be, and I found that I had a newfound respect for professional soccer players and a further enlightenment as to why it was the most popular sport in the world. My opponent was right on my heels, and I could hear the heavy sound of his breathing right in my ears. We neared the first cone, so I slowed the corner and kept the ball close. Perfectly executed, if I say so myself. There was one cone left and it seemed miles away, but I kept pushing on. I was almost to the cone when I felt my right foot get stepped on, and my left foot get kicked out from under my body. As I struggled to regain my balance, his hand grabbed my shoulder blade and shoved me to the side. Falling to the ground, I saw him kick my ball way out of bounds. I looked up at Coach, who was staring open-mouthed at a butterfly that had landed on his shoulder. The opposing team cheered as the scumbag who fouled me crossed the finish line and into his screaming teammates. The sudden outburst snapped Coach Besch back into attention, who looked from me picking myself off the ground, to my teams dismayed faces, then to the celebratory winning team. Using his astounding powers of deductive reasoning, he shouted, Aiden Wests team
loses! The winning team, hit the showers, and the losing team gets to stay out here and do pushups! Whoop whoop! He blew his whistle. Man, I love this whistle! I walked over to where my friends were standing. Someone walked past me and purposely hit my shoulder with theirs. Another person murmured, Thanks a lot, jerk, as they passed. Demi playfully punched my shoulder. Not a rough punch, but a dont worry about it punch. Xavier nudged my arm with his elbow and smiled up at me cautiously to see if I was upset. Lili rubbed my back. Its not your fault, Lili said quietly. That idiot fouled you, and Besch is dumb and wasnt paying attention. It wont be bad, kind of like a Band-Aid. Well just do it quick and get it over with. I scowled. That was ridiculous, I muttered. There was no reason for him to do that, he was probably gonna beat me, anyways. Are you kidding me? Demi fumed. You were miles ahead of him. You wouldve beaten him by a long run. Well he was close enough to pull that stunt. Your definition of the word miles and my definition dont quite match up. Coach had received a phone call, so everyone was just standing around waiting. The boy that fouled me walked up to me, with two of his friends on either side of him, who I recognized as Lili and Xaviers opponents. I gotta hand it to you, Aiden, He sneered. You gave me quite the run for my money there. Not that any of my money would be worth spending on something as worthless as you. Demetri lunged at him, and Xavier grabbed his arm to hold him back. His friends howled with laughter.
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What do you want, Luca? I spat. Youre outnumbered here. Why dont you go steal some grandmas purse, or kick a nun in the shin? You arent wanted here. He feigned shock. I must say, its cute to see you growing a pair and standing up for yourself, he chuckled. But youll never be the man your mother is. This time it was my turn to jump on him. I caught him by surprise, and he didnt have time to think. I was on top of him, one hand loosely around his throat, the other aimed for a punch that was going to splatter his brains all over the soccer field. Before I could throw it, though, Lili grabbed my arm and Xavier pulled me off of him. I was shaking and I couldnt see straight, I was so mad. Luca scrambled up off the ground, shaking off his friends attempt to help. Come on, Tracy, Micah, he said, smoothing out his shorts. These losers arent worth our time. He pivoted around on his heel and stormed off, his cronies following close behind. Wow, Demetri called after them. I remember when I was in kindergarten and called people names. Luca flipped him off with both hands, not even bothering to turn around. Lili sighed, and dusted off my back. She had a habit of acting like a mom around us three boys. You guys need to get a grip on this whole testosterone-puberty thing, she said, crossing her arms and looking at Demi and me. I pointed at Xavier in protest. Hes got testosterones too! Yell at him! I said, winking at Xavier. Yeah, but hes not a little girl about it, he actually has control over his emotions. I swear you two have synced up on your menstrual cycles, she retorted. Coach Besch walked up, folding his flip phone and putting it into his breast pocket. Your comb-over looks especially nice today, Coach, Demetri said with an obnoxious grin, showing all his teeth. Coach cleared his throat.
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Alright maggots, one hundred pushups for everyone, and one-fifty for Hill, because I hate butt-kissers, even though hes absolutely right. Its this new hair product Ive been using. Keeps the fluff in place all day long, he boomed, and blew his whistle. Now all of you get on the ground and beat your faces! * * * * * * * * * * * * *
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Accusations Well, that wasnt so bad, Demi said, lifting his shirt up and wiping the sweat from his brow. I shut the door to my gym locker, and collapsed on the bench. Xavier sat down beside me, his towel from his shower draped over his shoulder. Yeah, no, youre absolutely right. I cant think of a better way to spend the summer than to water the entire soccer field with my sweat, which, I might add, was coming out of parts of my body that have never sweated in my life before today. I ranted, all the while winding up my towel in preparation for an extremely painful flip on Demetris backside. He laughed and coiled his up as well, ready to retaliate. Why dont you white boys quit complaining? Im fat. You know how hard it is for a fat kid to do a hundred pushups in a hundred degree weather? Thats like a degree for each pushup. Plus, Im black, and black retains heat. I dont stand a chance out there. Xavier laughed and winded his towel up, then commenced to flipping me in the thigh. We all roared with laughter, flipping each other with our damp towels and inflicting massive pain on one another. We did that for a while, but then Demetri stood up straight, his face instantly going to a poker face that I had seen many a time, but only when we were about to get in trouble. I turned around, and Coach Besch was walking towards us with Luca following his heel like a dog.
West, Hill, Lancing! My office! Now! Besch yelled, waving his clipboard wildly. He was the spitting image of an out of shape, red-faced gym teacher who was waving a clipboard wildly. Coach turned to Luca, and put his hand on his shoulder gently. Now Luca, are you absolutely certain that these are the boys who did this to you? He jabbed a thumb in our direction, and Luca nodded. Alrighty then. Ill take care of it, and youll go shower, because ya smell like my fat father-in-law after he won the chili dog-eating contest. Let me tell ya, he did not smell good that day, young man. Luca grimaced, then wheeled around towards the showers. He turned back around just long enough to stick his tongue out at us, then disappeared. You boys are in a lot of trouble. Get in my office, an dont make me say it again. He took off towards the small room in the corner of the locker room. I actually think it was a room made for storage, but he called it his office. What do you think that little dirtbag said about us? Demetri asked, rubbing his chin. I shrugged. I dunno, Xavier murmured, But we better get in his office before we make this worse than it already is. We all three nodded, and jogged over to the office. It was a dimly lit room; there was one light bulb hanging down from a wire. There was a small desk with a computer on it, and three bean bag chairs parallel to the desk, each one an ugly shade of blue. We piled into the room, and I shut the door quietly behind us, just in case there was yelling. That would be embarrassing. Please, gentlemen, Besch motioned to the bean bag chairs, Have a seat. We all took a bean bag and sunk down deep into their plushy embrace. I was fairly certain that I had hit the
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point of no return as I sank down lower into the chair, and if the need to run arose, Id be in a lot of trouble. I was in the middle of the three seats; Demi was on my left, Xavier my right. Lets have us a little chat, Coach said with a sickeningly sweet smile. An anonymous source has told me that youve been picking fights an gangin up on people. Said you took a student to the ground in an attempt to choke em to death. Is this true? He rested his elbows on his desk and folded his hands together. The three of us shared a look. Alright, first of all, its not an anonymous source, we watched Luca point us out- Dont you raise your voice at me, young man! Demetris eyebrows shot up. I cleared my throat. I think what Demetri is trying to say here is that Luca had a big part in all of this, and he isnt as innocent as you think, I said, trying to keep my voice soft but steady. Coach leaned back in his chair. I dont wanna hear excuses, he barked. I will not tolerate bullies in my gym. Detention, all of you. Yall are dismissed now. We all jumped up, which was a chore in itself with those chairs. Thats not fair, though! We didnt do anything! Xavier protested. Besch stood up. Thats another day of detention you just earned. Anyone else have any comments or concerns? You can be there all year for all I care. Xavier looked down at his feet, and Demetri scowled. I shook my head and headed for the door. No, Coach. I think thatll be all. Have a nice day, I said through clenched teeth. We filed out the door, and Demetri slammed the door behind him. The bell had already rung, and the next period had already started. The locker room was empty.
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Well this sucks, Xavier frowned. Why would Luca tell on us? He started the whole thing when he pushed you, Aiden. I shrugged, and grabbed my stuff. I dunno. It doesnt matter, though, I sighed and we headed for the exit. He only did it to get a rise out of us, and if we act upset about it, itll just give him his sick satisfaction that hes looking for. By the way, do either of you have a second period? I dont, so Im gonna start heading towards the arcade. Xavier shook his head and slung his backpack over his shoulders. Nah, I dont. Ill walk with you, he said, rubbing his eyes. Demetri picked up his folder and started walking backwards, still facing us. Ive got a government class that requires my appearance there. You kids just go on without me. Ill sneak out the window and catch up with you later. He winked at us and turned around to go to his next class. Xavier and I stepped outside into the bright sunlight. I shielded my eyes, and he put on a pair of sunglasses. You know, I chuckled, Something tells me he wasnt kidding when he said that. Xavier laughed and clapped me on the back. You know, something was telling me that exact same thing. * * * * * * * Ethics Demetri slid into the classroom with the utmost silence, but it wasnt enough to evade the teachers notice. He had his back to the class and was writing something on the marker board when he turned around and said, Mr. Hill. Youre late, again. This is twice this week. And its Tuesday. Demetri froze in his path to his seat, and smiled sheepishly at the teacher. * * * * * *
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Im sorry, Mr. Cage. I got caught up in a conversation with my delightful PE coach, and I guess I just lost track of time. Rest assured, it wont happen again. Demetri held his breath in hopes that his teacher would let him go free, and started inching his way towards his desk. Thats quite alright, Mr. Hill. You know, you should really talk to the administrators about installing some kind of notification system that told students when their next class was. Perhaps a bell? Take your seat, and please try to refrain from disrupting my class again. Mr. Cage turned back to the board and continued writing what he had started. He slashed his hand underneath the word to underline it, then stepped aside to reveal his work. In red expo marker, he had written the word Ethics with his messy scrawl. Demetri sat down at a table with three other students, one of which was Lili. She raised an eyebrow at him as he took the seat next to her, winking. Now who can tell me what this word that I have written means, and how it comes to play in our government? Mr. Cage said, sliding his hands in his khaki pants. The class consisted of ten or thirteen students, seeing as it was summer school and most kids could find better things to do with their time. Three students raised their hands, although they were probably the only three that were paying attention. Alexis, what does the word ethics mean? A blonde girl in a red hoodie answered. A persons race and culture? No, thats ethnics, with an n. Anyone else? Yes, Billy, why dont you tell the class what exactly this whole ethics thing is all about. A larger boy with long hair who was apparently named Billy lowered his hand back to his desk. He was sweaty and constantly wiping his brow with his long-sleeved shirt.
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I wanna say that its like, morals and stuff. What people view as right and wrong, right? Like, its most of the time based off of religions, and what their churches think is spiritually pleasing or displeasing to their gods and stuff. Right? He looked up hopefully at Mr. Cage and
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rubbed his face again. The teacher nodded his approval and turned back to the marker board, making a bullet underneath his former underlined word, and scribbled the words morals and values, then jabbed the board again underneath those words, and wrote down religious beliefs. Well said, Billy. Class, Billy brought up several good points in his explanation. Ethics are how a person views a certain subject, and are usually a cause for heated arguments. Without ethics, we would not have a debate program in this school. He ran a hand through his balding scalp. Although he was aged, he still looked decent, especially for an old guy. Thats the definition of ethics, now who can tell me how it comes into play with politics and government and the like? The same three raised their hands again. Alright, Samuel. Go for it. Samuel cleared his throat. Well, politicians usually address those issues in their campaign. If their view matches the view of the audience theyre trying to reach, then itll assure them of their votes in an upcoming election. Very good, the teacher said, turning to the board once again. A political leader will address said issues in a campaign or even a speech in an effort to gain more votes. This, class, is where we get our political parties. Each party has different ideas about ethics and how to approach them. Some people vote based off of a politicians specific views, but some just vote based on party. Now who can tell me some recent ethical topics that have come up in this coming election? He looked around the classroom full of blank faces. Gun rights? A student suggested.
Abortion, maybe? Both good answers, and correct, too. But I was talking about a more recent topic that has come up. Has anyone ever heard of intentional human mutation? The intentional mutating of human genes to enhance mans everyday functions. Demetri and Lili grimaced simultaneously. Human mutation was the newest focus on Xaviers father, Dr. Richard Lancings work. So far his experiments had just yielded extra limbs or facial features, none of which were functional, but even still, the project had stirred up quite a rise with the media. Is this ethical? Should man tamper with the natural genetic process? And what if the experiments fail? Is it ethical to test them on humans? One wrong move could kill people. Well it sounds to me like youre biased towards this subject, Mr. Cage. Demetri said, leaning back in his seat. Are you legally allowed to express your opinion in a class like this? Mr. Cage walked over to his desk, sat down in his swivel chair, and propped his legs up on his desk. Apparently this was the debate he had been seeking. Well, if you must know, Mr. Hill, I do for a fact disagree with the experimental testing of human genetics. The risks outweigh the rewards, and Im not too sure the rewards are all that rewarding in the long run. You seem to be somewhat educated on this subject, I presume. Why dont you give us your opinion on the matter? Demi sat up straight in his chair, and caught Lilis gaze, who was giving him a look that told him to watch what he said very carefully. Unbeknownst to anyone outside of their four-man group, Dr. Lancing had invited Aiden, Demetri, Lili, and Xavier to his lab that evening. None of them knew what his reason was, but Xavier had revealed suspicions about some kind of genetic research. Actually, I am educated in this subject and have done my research. Human genetic research could potentially save hundreds of thousands of lives, which would greatly outweigh the
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three or four experiments gone wrong. Those experiments, I might add, are highly unlikely. Youd have to be crazy to not research it. I mean, were talking the cure for cancer, here! Cancer, Alzheimers, AIDS, maybe even the human flaw of aging This is crucial stuff here. Demetri
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crossed his arms, proud of his argument. It almost sounded like he knew what he was talking about. Mr. Cage stood back up and walked over to Demi and Lilis table, looking at Demetri curiously. You sure seem to know quite a bit about this topic, Mr. Hill, Mr. Cage said with a venomous edge in his voice. Could this be because you have a close relationship with the head of this investigation, Dr. Richard Lancing? Could it be that hes let you, a minor, in on top-secret breakthroughs in his study, breakthroughs that you might be withholding from myself and the rest of the class? Cages face was turning red and he was getting angry, which was a side of the teacher that was rarely seen on school grounds. Demetri opened his mouth to reply, but Lili cut him off. Why dont you stop drilling him? Even if he did have a connection that you didnt, its none of your business, and its not your place to pry. Didnt you have a lesson you were supposed to be teaching? Lili didnt break eye contact between the two of them as Mr. Cage scowled at her. Ten years ago, I couldve had you expelled for speaking to me in such a manner. Today, they would reprimand me for wasting their time with such a petty cause. No matter. I suppose were done here, before this situation gets worse for the two of you. He took a step back and inhaled deeply, his face returning to its normal color. He walked back to his desk and grabbed a stack of papers. This is your homework for tonight, class. Its due at the beginning of class tomorrow. Ah Billy, would you mind handing these papers out? I have to make a personal
call. His eyes darted to Demetri, then to Lili, then back to the rest of the class. He handed the papers to Billy, pulled his cell phone out of his pocket, then left the room. Dang, Demi, Billy said as he brought them the worksheets. I thought Cage was gonna tear your head off and feed it to his pet llama. Ive never seen him look that mad, ever. Demi smiled and wadded up the worksheet, which made its way to the trash bin in the form of a bank shot. Dont worry about it, bud. He doesnt scare me. Plus, I got Lil here, he said, throwing an arm around her neck. Were unstoppable. Billy grinned and muttered something along the lines of whatever you say, and made his way back to his seat. You sound a lot more confident than I am about this situation, Lily said quietly when Billy was out of earshot. Demetri closed his eyes and rubbed his temples, letting out a sigh. Im worried, Lil. I dont know what hes up to, and Im afraid I may have said too much. I mean, whys it such a big deal, anyway? This doesnt even affect him. I dunno, your guess is as good as mine. I guess when we meet up with Dr. Lancing tonight, we can fill him in on everything that just went down. If we meet up with him, Demi corrected. Lili, if we get involved in this, we could get in huge trouble. Whatever Dr. Lancing is working on right now, its big. And you know hes getting desperate if he wants kids to help him. Lili shook her head. We have to at least see what he wants. He cant make us do anything we dont wanna do. At that moment, the bell rang. Chairs scraped the floor as the class stampeded towards the door. Lili got up from her chair and neatly tucked away her homework assignment in her folder. Demetri stood up and stretched out, letting loose a massive yawn.
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I guess youre right, he yawned. It couldnt hurt to see what he wants us to do. So whats the game plan for now, do you know? They walked out the door, their shoulders brushing up against each other as they walked down the school hallway. Well, Aiden and Xavier should be at Smoothie Villa and Arcade right now, so I guess well just head over there. Your flys down, by the way. He quickly adjusted himself. Then once were with them, well just start walking over to the BioGene lab. They exited the double glass doors of the school, and stepped out into the bright sun. Your motherly skills amaze me to this day, you know? Its crazy how you can know where everyones at and what their plans are, all at the same time, and still be able to catch it when my flys down. Demi laughed, punching Lili in the arm. She slugged him back much harder, and he rubbed his arm, still laughing. I do what I can, she grinned, and they stepped out onto High Street, as they embarked on their journey to the smoothie bar. * * * * * * * * * * * * *
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Experiments Xavier glanced at his watch again and took a sip from his strawberry-banana smoothie. Where do you think they are? We promised Dad wed be by the lab at five, and its four fortytwo. Punctuality is everything to that man. I shrugged as I slid my straw in and out of the plastic cup, amusing myself in the squeaky noise it created. Patience, grasshopper. Traffic is ridiculous right now, I replied. Ten bucks says they got hit by a car.
Youre totally on. I looked up at the flatscreen television set that was mounted on the wall in front of me. An anchorwoman was silently bringing todays news as black and white subtitles scrolled across the bottom of the screen. Dr. Lancings lab flashed on the screen. Hey, Xav, look. Your dads on TV, I murmured, nodding my head towards the television. He whirled around just in time to see his father wave off a pushy news lady and cameraman. The image then returned to the anchorwoman, although the set was too far away to read the closed captions on the bottom. What do you think that was all about? I asked him, although I was fairly certain I knew the answer. He rolled his eyes and turned back around in his seat. Three guesses. I gave him a sympathetic look. It had to be hard being the son of the man in charge of changing the world. Such status had just as many downsides as it did upsides, and sometimes they were bitter and unforgiving, as the rest of the world is. Xavier didnt get picked on nearly as much as he did before he was with us, but there were still moments every now and then when he was alone. This new controversy had just given predators a new reason to prey on him. The door to the shop swung open, and Lili walked in with a limping Demetri following closely behind. She grinned at us as she walked over to our booth, which was strategically chosen for its convenient private location. It was at the corner of the place, where no other booth was near. Demetri hobbled down and flopped down next to me, looking as if he were one of the last three hundred Spartans, and had just come back from the battle with the Persians. What the heck happened to you? I exclaimed. You look like crap!
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Gee, thanks, Demi scowled. I got hit by a freaking moped. The loser wasnt watching where he was going and buzzed me down on the sidewalk. I slid a ten towards Xavier. I hate you both, he added. It was hilarious, Lili laughed. You guys shouldve seen it; this tough guy actuall y cried! She started laughing again, and her face was getting red from laughing so hard. Every time she tried to look at Demetri, she started squealing again. Just the sight of her so tickled got Xavier and me going, and soon all three of us couldnt stop laughing. First of all, I dont see whats so funny, he said crossly, folding his arms against his chest. Second, I did not cry, your eyes would water too if an electric scooter ran you over. And last, dont we have somewhere to be? I wiped a tear from my eyes, and the laughter gradually died down, but we were all still smiling big at each other. Demis right, I chuckled. Well be late if we dont get a move on. Were already pushing for time. Lets blow this popsicle stand. We all shuffled out of the booth and walked out of the cool smoothie parlor and into the blistering June heat. The lab was just a short distance away, so it didnt take long at all to get there. We walked up the chipped and broken sidewalk and turned into the drive of the laboratory. The sky was filled with dark clouds, and thunder quietly rumbled off in the distance. The smell of rain filled the air, and flocks of birds were flying away from the clouds. Looks like a storms coming, Demetri murmured, looking at the skies. I nodded in agreement. The lab was a large white building, with an hourglass-shaped nuclear reactor on either side of it. The double glass doors swung open as we approached, bringing a cool airconditioned breeze with it. We walked into the building, where we were greeted by a lady at the
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front desk. The front office was completely white, with no windows at all. It consisted of the front desk, six chairs, and two doors, each labeled Caution: Nuclear Activity. Hi, Xavier! The lady chirped. She was wearing a white apron-looking dress, similar to the attire of a WWII nurse, and she had a headset on. The last time I saw you, you were still in diapers! My, how youve grown. Xavier smiled warmly. Hey there, Anne. How have you been? He asked politely, stepping up to the desk. I looked over at Demetri, who was examining a stain on one of the ceiling tiles. That looks like coffee, he whispered. How do you reckon it got up there? Lili glanced at the stain, then shrugged. Ive been good, dear. Are these your friends? Weve been expecting you kids, and I cannot thank you enough for coming here. You guys are crucial to Dr. Lancings research. Anne smiled at all of us, flashing a pair of extremely white teeth. Anything for the dad of our best bud Xavier, here. But before we go in there, what exactly is he gonna have us do? Demetri said, stepping up to the desk. The nurse-lady tapped a button on what appeared to be an antique wall phone. There was a loud beep, then she spoke into her headset and said, Dr. Lancing, your guests are here, Dr. Lancing. She let go of the button, then looked back at us. Ill just have him tell you. He can explain it much better than I ever could, she beamed. Xavier gave her his thanks, then took a seat in one of the chairs across the room. The three of us followed suit. That lady gives me the creeps, I murmured. Demi nodded in agreement. Honestly, Im pretty nervous about this whole thing, Lili said, her face slightly pale. I mean, what if we get an extra limb or something? I dont wanna have a foot on my face for the rest of my life.
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The doors to the lab swung open, and a short man in a lab coat walked out, carrying a clipboard. Did someone say something about extra appendages? Thats my specialty! The man
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winked at Lili and chuckled. We stood up and met him halfway across the lobby. Dr. Lancing! How are you? I exclaimed. He shook my hand and brought me in for a hug. Ive learned by now that Xaviers family were all huggers, and you would be scolded if you got away without one. It seems like I havent seen you in ages! He laughed again. Aiden, my son from another mother! Youre looking good, kid. Have you gotten taller? I nodded earnestly, and he grinned at me. Demetri, Lili, bring it in. You guys know the drill. Demi and Lili smiled as they embraced the doctor in a big group hug. To anyone else, this tradition may have seemed weird or even awkward, but the three of us had been to so many sleepovers at Xaviers house that we were accustomed to it. And yes, Lili attended the sleepovers too. Our parents were all childhood friends, so they trusted each other to keep a watchful and highly unnecessary eye out on us. Hey Dad, wheres my hug? Xavier said, pretending to be taken aback. Dr. Lancing scratched his scraggly whiskers. Didnt I just hug you like, yesterday? You kids these days. So needy. Next youll be asking for food and water more than once a week! We all laughed, and Dr. Lancing pulled his son in for a giant bear hug. Now, he said, one arm still around Xavier. In all seriousness, I brought you four here today for a very important reason. Ive been working on a project, but it hasnt been released to the press yet. Walk with me, and Ill explain more. He strode out of the lobby and through the doors leading into the lab. The four of us trailed him close, but his strides were ridiculously long and fast for a man of five feet and three inches.
The inside of the lab was massive, with ceilings reaching well over thirty feet high. Forklifts and utility vehicles were darting all throughout the lab, and men and women in white lab coats busily walked around. There were machines of all shapes and sizes, and the lab vaguely reminded me of Willy Wonkas chocolate factory, with all the whimsical equipment that Id never seen before. This project Ive been working on, Dr. Lancings words cut through my racing thoughts as I took everything in, and I snapped back into focus. Ive finally completed it, and I have a good feeling its one of the best ones yet. I call it the Infinite Clause. Along with the leading scientists from around the world, right under the medias nose, Ive managed to create a serum that manipulates a human beings genes. Thats the extent of what the press knows. What they dont know is that this serum does not merely change a person physical features. It molds the genes into a form of super adaptation, granting the subject superiority over an average human. Im talking about superpowers. It changes the chemical makeup of DNA, and gives you a superpower based on the structure of your DNA. No two peoples DNA are the same, therefore the possible outcomes are infinite, which is why I call it the Infinite Clause. Any questions so far? He looked around at the four of us. Xaviers jaw had dropped, Lilis eyes widened, Im certain I had a look of bewilderment on my face, but Demis face remained emotionless. So youre telling us that youve invented a way to give people superpowers, and you want to test it out on us? I stammered. Thats crazy! Itd be awesome if it were true, but its kind of far-fetched for us to believe you invented something like that. I thought you might say something like that. Youll just have to trust me that this works. Once the serum succeeds on you four, Ill give it a year, and see if anything shady happens with your bodies. After that, Ill distribute it to the American military. We will be the greatest country
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this planet has ever seen, and every nation will fear us. But I need teenagers for the test. Your bodies are strong, but they are also young. The younger you start the serum out, the stronger your powers will get as you age. By the time you reached retirement, youd be practically a deity! He grinned at us and held his hands out, palms up. What do you guys say? I dunno I- Im in. Lets do it, Demetri cut in. Xavier, Lili and I looked at him. What? You could die! Lili scolded. What if the serum fails? What if youre blinded and deafened for the rest of your life? Now thats highly unlikely Dr. Lancing muttered. Xavier walked over and stood by Demetri. Im in too. This is a once in a lifetime opportunity, and if my own father trusts the life of his own son with this serum, then I do too. I looked over at Lili, who shook her head, a distressed look on her face. Maybe theyre right, I said quietly. Lil, you remember when we were little? Remember how we always said that wed go on a huge adventure before we grew up? I think this is it. Lili was quiet. She looked at me with those brilliant silvery-gray eyes, and I knew she was in. Lets do it, I grinned, giving them a thumbs up. Dr. Lancing laughed and began walking. This is excellent news! Right this way, kids! We followed him into another room, one that was filled with scientists who were apparently awaiting our arrival. The room began bustling with quiet voices and whispers as soon as we entered the room. The room was set up like a college classroom, with hundreds of seats surrounding the center of the room on an incline. At
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the center of the room, there was a single, large glass box. The box was big enough to hold at least ten people, and it had a glass door on the outside of it. Follow me, please, Lancing said as we pushed through the rows of scientists to the center of the room. These people are here for the results of the experiments. Its kind of a demonstration-type deal. I looked around at all the faces staring back at me. Man, I hope this doesnt kill me, I thought. So what exactly is about to go down here? Demetri inquired. We were in the center of the room now, and the talking had died down. All eyes were on us, and I heard Xavier gulp beside me. Alright guys, Dr. Lancing said, talking louder so everyone in the room could hear him speak. This giant glass box is actually an elevator. The four of you will ride it into the basement of the lab. Once you get down there, youll find a table with four glass vials. Each of them contain a liquid sample of the Infinite Clause serum, so youll be able to drink them, and itll be as easy as that. He smiled reassuringly at us. Is it going to hurt? Lili asked timidly. Honestly, honey, I havent the slightest idea. I hope not. It was Lilis turn to gulp. Dr. Lancing ushered us into the glass box and shut the door behind us. I took one last look at the hundreds of curious faces peering back and me, and sighed. Here we go, guys. This is it. Demetri laughed in disbelief. I cant believe were actually about to be superheroes. This is gonna be awesome! Ill give you all one more chance to back out now, Dr. Lancing said, the lines on his forehead growing thicker. Any takers? Nope.
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This is our childhood adventure, Xavier said. We have to make it worthwhile. Unforgettable. I looked at Lili, who was looking back at me. I held my fist out, and she pounded it, grinning. Everythings gonna be okay, Lil. I promise. The elevator began its descent, and we began sinking into the ground, the surrounding people and faces getting higher and higher until they were out of sight, and we were encased in darkness. All was silent except for the whirr of the elevator motor. The darkness was so intense that I couldnt even see my hand in front of my face. Psst. Hey Aiden. What, Demi? What if I told you I was naked? You would have no idea, because you couldnt see me. Id tell you to join the club, because I am too. You guys are idiots. * * * * * * * * * * * * *
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Changes The elevator erupted with laughter as light erupted from the bottom of the elevator. We passed the ceiling of the basement and landed on the hard linoleum floors. The door slid open, and we shuffled out of the glass cage. The room wasnt much: a small table was the only decoration in the room, which was well lit with fluorescent lights. If I had to guess, this room was built to be a storm shelter, and the table was recently placed here for the purpose of the experiment. Sure enough, there were four glass vials filled to the brim with a clear liquid.
I walked over to the table, and picked up a vial, holding it up to the light. Bubbles escaped from the bottom of the liquid to the top, giving it the frighteningly deceitful appearance of water. To my left, Xavier had grabbed a vial and was sniffing it. Its odorless, he observed. Lili and Demetri picked up their portions of the liquid looked at each other nervously. I grinned at them in an effort to lighten the mood, although I was just as nervous as they were. What if we were about to consume our own death sentence? But it was too late to go back now. This was our childhood adventure. Well, Xavier said shakily, Bottoms up. I took my vial and brought it to my lips, and everyone did the same. I had thought that since the liquid had no odor, it would have no taste either. I was wrong. At first, a minty sensation washed over my taste buds, causing my mouth to tingle, but it was followed by an aftertaste that resembled mud. I swallowed the concoction down, and it burned my throat. If I had to imagine what drinking whiskey was like, this would probably be my best guess. I looked over at my companions and examined their facial expressions. Lili looked as if she had consumed something sour because her lips were pressed tightly together. Xaviers face had turned a sickly shade of green, and he looked like he wasnt feeling too hot, either. Demetri remained expressionless. That was some nasty crap, right there, I groaned, wiping my mouth with the back of my hand. Xavier nodded in agreement. I gotta sit down, or Im gonna be sick. Xavier slowly sat down and put his head between his knees.
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Actually, Lili bemused, Mine wouldnt have been half bad if it wouldve had more sugar. It just tasted like lemonade without the sugar, so it was ridiculously sour. I looked at her curiously, then looked at Xavier. Wait. Yours tasted like lemons? Mine tasted like mint. And mud. How does that work? Xavier looked up. Mine tasted like vomit. Like, week old vomit thats sat out in the sun and fermented. Then someone took a dump in it. After eating four bowls of chili. It was bad. Lili and I shared a grimace of disgust at the vivid image Xavier had placed in our minds, then looked over at Demetri, who was staring intently at his drained vial. What did yours taste like, Demi? Demetri shook his head. Im pretty sure this was just water. It tasted like water, and I dont feel any different than bef- He collapsed onto the ground, and started shaking violently. The glass vial in his hand fell and shattered on the hard floor. I began to run over to him, but I didnt get very far before my entire body locked up and began seizing. A fire surged through my entire body, from the tip of the hair on my head, to the ball of my heel. My fingers curled inward, and my eyes rolled upwards. As soon as it started, though, it was over. The fire subsided, and I had become painfully aware of how cold the floor had been. I sat up slowly and observed my surroundings. Lili was sitting up straight, watching Xavier carefully as his seizure subsided. Demetri was sitting with his legs crossed, staring openmouthed at his shirt, which had transformed from a deep maroon to a shade of the whitest white I had ever seen in my life. Xaviers body became still, and he sat up slowly, rubbing his eyes. If my superpower is a white shirt, Im going to be furious, Demetri growled. Xavier rubbed his temples and shook his head.
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Be grateful, he muttered. You could be like me, and be gifted with a super headache. I looked from Demetri to Xavier, then to Lili. Geez, I thought. This is nothing like I thought it would be. Everyones superpowers suck. Aiden Xavier said cautiously. Why did I just hear you talk, but your mouth didnt move? Did you get some kind of super ventriloquism? My eyes widened. Xav, I didnt say anything. Yeah, I didnt hear anything, Demi added. Looks like you can read minds, man. Thats insane! Xavier grinned hugely. Better beware, he teased. Or at least keep your thoughts clean, because Ill totally know. In that case Xavier, I said with a serious look on my face, You should know, I secretly think youre cute. Its good to have that off my chest, rather than you find out the other way. Everyone laughed and Xavier swiped at me. It was good to see the intensity of the situation fade. Well guys, thats one down. Three left. Whats it gonna be? Demetri said towards Lili and me. I shrugged and looked at Lili. Well I dont feel any different, Lili said, looking at the palms of her hands. I- She looked away from us and put her hand over her nose. She breathed deeply, then sneezed. The air in front of her erupted in a massive flame that was headed straight for us. We dove out of the way of the fire, which dissipated into the air that it came from. She looked at us, then to her palms again, then muttered something that sounded like well huh. Super sneezes? I asked her. This just keeps getting weirder and weirder. She shook her head and looked at the ground directly in front of her.
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I dont think so, Lili said, her eyes still trained on the ground. She concentrated harder and harder on that spot, and a small flame came up out of the ground. She stepped on it to put it out, then looked back at us. See, I think its just a concentration thing. This is surreal Thats pretty epic, Demetri said, looking at Lili in admiration. You could kick some major bad guy butt with that. It looks like its just you and me then, Aiden. I sighed. What if the serum didnt affect us? What if it was just going to end up killing us? Wouldnt that just suck. Wait a minute, Demi said, cutting through my morbid thoughts. Lili said something about concentrating. Maybe thats what we need to do. My eyes widened. Demetri, I think you might be onto something! I looked at him intensely and focused. Dont freaking look at me, Aiden. I dont wanna spontaneously combust. Too late. I felt a power surge through my body, and leave through my fingertips. Demetri stared at me. I stared back. Um, Lili said cautiously. Nothing happened. She was right. Nothing had happened, but I know I felt something inside of me. Demi kept staring at me, unblinking. Dude, stop staring at me. Youre creeping me out. He remained frozen. Oh my God, I killed Demetri, I gasped. I looked at Xavier, then Lili, panicking. What do I freaking do?! Just relax, Lili said quietly, but her voice was shaking. Just concentrate on him again, and maybe youll reverse it or something. I raised my eyebrows. Or something?! Do you have a better idea?! Touch! I turned back to the still Demetri, who was staring back at me in the same position that he had been. I focused hard. Silence.
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Im serious man, quit staring at me, Demetri finally said, as if nothing had happened. That would be a crappy way to end my superhero tale. He frowned at me, then turned his gaze to the floor, concentrating. My jaw dropped. You have no idea what just happened, do you? Xavier asked, rubbing his chin. Demi looked back up from Xavier to me. See if you can do that again, Aiden. I gave Xavier a wary look, then sighed. It would really suck if Demi got stuck like that. I put all my focus back on Demetri, and sure enough, he froze again. I walked up to him to examine him. I pulled on his sleeve, and his arm followed my tug, suspended in the air. Grinning at Lili and Xavier, I put his arm back down. I dont really know how youd define this superpower, but I could really have a lot of fun with this. I yanked his pants down, revealing his red and white polka-dotted boxers, then walked back to where I was standing. I concentrated again, and Demetri blinked. Do what again? He asked in response to Xaviers comment to me. He was completely oblivious to everything that had just taken place. Yo Demi, I think your flys down, Lili chuckled. Demetri looked down, his face going from confusion to horror. He swiftly yanked his pants back up, tightening his belt and scowling at me. Alright, so you gained the ability to remove clothes, Aiden. Thats great. Just fantastic. Id like to see you save the world with that, he growled. The three of us laughed, yet again at Demetris expense. I walked over to him and faced Lili and Xavier. Not quite, I laughed. Watch. I looked at Xavier as he rolled his eyes at me, knowing what was coming. He froze in mid-eye roll. I looked over to see Demetris reaction, which was
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expressionless at first, but after a couple of seconds with Xaviers strange expression, Demi squinted at his face. Why isnt he moving? He asked, slowly approaching Xavier. Thats just bizarre. Hes frozen still, and when I bring him back, hell have no recollection of anything thats going on right now. Its like no time has passed at all for him. I answered proudly, pretty stoked with my newfound ability. Lili walked over to join us as we gazed at Xaviers suspended body. A few seconds passed, then one of his fingers twitched. It was my turn to squint at Xavier, because I wasnt focusing hard enough for the effect to reverse. Xavier blinked, then looked at us. Whoa, Xavier stammered, his eyes widening. Lili, you just moved insanely fast. Like, all I could see was a blur, then you were across the room with Demi and Aiden. That was crazy. Lili and I shared a glance as I scratched my head. I guess I cant hold onto it for very long, I muttered unhappily. Demetri walked over to the table where the vials were, and leaned up against it. He rubbed his eyes and shook his head. I dont understand. I focused and focused, but nothing happened. Do you think it just didnt work for me? He whispered. I could hear the hurt in his voice; he probably wanted this more than all of the rest of us. Lili, Xavier and I gave him simultaneous looks of sympathy as we walked over to join him. Xavier put his hand on Demis shoulder reassuringly. Maybe itll just take a while for the effects to kick in. I mean, your body did freak out like the rest of ours. Somethings going down inside of you, Lili said, trying to read his expression. Demetri stood straight up. But my serum tasted like water. It had no taste, and the only thing that happened was this dumb shirt turning white. He scowled at his shirt, then looked at our concerned faces. Or
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maybe youre right. Maybe its just taking a little while to kick in. Either way, we have a bunch of people waiting on us upstairs, so we might as well head back up. His demeanor did a 360. He grinned at the rest of us and motioned us towards the elevator. I was a little worried, to be honest. He didnt usually act this way. I headed towards the glass box, and the others followed suit. Out of the corner of my eye, I saw Lili wave her arm in front of her face, a shower of bright flames emitting from the air trailing it. I pressed the up button on the metal panel beside the elevator, and the transparent doors slid open silently. We filed into the spacious box for a second time, and the doors shut behind us as the elevator began its path back to civilization. The darkness enshrouded my vision yet again, a darkness overwhelming enough to take my breath away. It appeared as if none of us had gained super glow-in-the-dark powers, either. The elevator hummed loudly, and light eventually broke through the surface of the top of the glass. We slowly rose to the top, back to the hundred curious faces swimming around all directions of the elevator. The doors slid open slowly, and we stepped out. It was kind of like something in a movie, where all was silent, and the heroes stepped out, about to deliver some important news. Dr. Lancing stepped up cautiously to me. Well, he said impatiently, Whats the verdict? All eyes were on the four of us, and I looked at my friends, as if to decide who would go first. Apparently Xavier got the message, so he put two fingers up to his temple and looked at his father. Im telepathic, he thought. I can hear your thoughts, and if I want, you can hear mine. Richard Lancings jaw dropped to the floor, then his face erupted in the biggest grin I wouldve thought imaginable for such a tiny man. It worked! He exclaimed, literally taking a jump for joy, pumping his fist into the air. It actually worked! Erm Not that I didnt think it would, of course. He winked at his son.
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Despite his sudden outcry, the rest of the room remained silent. Someone in the back of the room cleared their throat, rather obnoxiously. Nobody but you heard that, I think, Dad, Xavier said, looking around at the expectant faces. They need to see what Lili can do to get them convinced, but for the record, to all those scientists out there, Im telepathic. I can hear and deliver thoughts. Youre up Lili. He glanced back at Lili, who nodded in return. She held an outstretched hand out, her palm facing the ceiling. She took a deep breath, and closed her eyes. There was a loud crack, and a jet of flame shot from her hand, all the way up to the ceiling panel, leaving a black scorch mark. The fire fizzled out, and she opened her eyes. The room was silent for a split second, like one would be after a singer just finished performing something amazing, then applause erupted. It was thunderous, whooping and hollering, men and women in white lab coats ecstatic with this huge scientific breakthrough. Xavier frowned at the uproar that he didnt receive, and Lili nudged him with her elbow playfully, grinning at him. I hate you, he grinned at her. Its okay, Lili thought back. I know youre special, even if no one else does. She winked at him. Dr. Lancing clapped her on the back, smiling hugely. Alright, Aiden. The balls in your court now, Lancing beamed. I smiled back, although there was no way Id ever be able to match his expression, nor would I be able to follow up Lilis act. I intertwined my fingers, then cracked them out in front of me for showmanship, then pointed at an unsuspecting scientist in the audience, also for showmanship. Freeze. * * * * * * * Fire * * * * * *
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The young man remained absolutely still and unblinking. Murmurs rippled throughout the crowd as everyones gaze shifted towards him. The young lady beside him poked him in the face, leaving an unnatural indention where her finger was. I dont exactly know the science behind it, I explained, But I figure that hes frozen in time right now. When he goes back to normal, he wont remember any of this, and itll be like no time passed at all for him. I can only hold onto it for so long, though, before he goes back to normal. I focused on his face again, and he blinked. He jumped, as everyone was still staring at him. Whyd you point at me? He stammered. Did I miss something? Chuckles rolled through the crowd, and the poor souls face reddened. You could say that, I laughed. A smaller applause echoed throughout the room, and I took a bow. Dr. Lancing squeezed my shoulder, then walked over to Demetri, still on Cloud Nine. Demi looked down as the man approached him. What about you, Demi? How did yours turn out? He asked. Demetri slid his hands in his pockets and looked up sheepishly at Dr. Lancing. Yeah, about that He began. Basically, my t-shirt turned bright white. Thats it. Aiden, Xavier, and Lilis serum all had different tastes, but mine just tasted like plain old water. I think it didnt work on me, or something. It was Demetris turn to have a red face, and he looked into the eyes of the doctor, hoping for a solution, a do-over, anything to fix this predicament. Hm. Thats curious Very curious, Dr. Lancing muttered, scratching his beard. The reason your serums tasted different from one another is because the Infinite Clause is a genebased solution. No two abilities are the same, therefore the serum would taste different to those
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with differing genes. Although, its very strange that yours would be flavorless, like water. And that it turned your shirt white, thats strange too. It should just affect your body, not the accessories worn on your body. He frowned, and turned back to the crowd. Well just have to watch it, and see what happens. Other than that, though, Id say this experiment was a success! The crowd erupted in cheers. It was like watching a pep rally, except I was the focus of the rally, which was a nice change, I had to admit. Well, Dr. Lancing said, once the cheering had died down. I suppose its time for everyone to celebrate. Theres a party room down in the- He was cut short. A deafening explosion shattered through the air, and everyone was thrown to the floor as the building shook violently. Smoke poured through a doorway where a door had been blown off its hinges, and the room was losing visibility fast. People were coughing as they warily began standing up, fearful of aftershocks. Um, Lil, that wasnt you, was it? I stammered, looking around at the scene that was unfolding. No way. At least, I dont think Everyone remain calm! Dr. Lancing shouted frantically. Dr. Cail, where was the source of that explosion? He turned to a middle-aged man with graying hair, who whipped out a tablet from the pocket in his lab coat. He tapped the screen a few times, then addressed Lancing. The E-Wing, he said grimly. Where all of the Infinite Clause testing was held, and where every last sample of the serum was located. The security there has been breached. Chaos swirled around us, as the two doctors shared an ominous look, and us four newly created super beings stood by them awkwardly. Men and women alike, with lab coats stained gray from the
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smoke and ash, were racing fanatically for the exits, knocking one another out of the way in an attempt to save ones self. Dr. Lancing looked down, perplexed. Their efforts are futile, Dr. Cail murmured, staring at his tablet. All the exits have been blocked off by rubble, and theres no way to get around it. And God knows whats happening in the E-Wing. I know exactly what is happening in that wing, Richard Lancing growled. Somebody leaked information about my project, and now a different somebody has come to steal it away. But were super heroes now, or at least three-fourths of us are, Demetri offered. We can stop these people, and save the serum! Dr. Lancing gave Demetri an astonished look, shaking his head. You children havent the slightest idea of what youre capable of, nor how to access what youre capable of. Right now, we need to evacuate the four of you. Youre the only known products of my serum, and chances are, whoever broke in wants you just as much as they want that serum. I frowned at him, and started walking towards the doorway. We might not be able to stop whoever is doing this, I replied, looking straight ahead, But we can at least get these people to safety. Come on guys, follow me. Well clear this rubble somehow or another. Lancing gave Cail a look, then whispered something in his ear. Dr. Cail nodded, then started a brisk walk towards the door. Very well, then, he coughed, holding his undershirt against his face and breathing through it. If youre going to do something, best do it quick. Were losing oxygen. However, you four will stay with me at all times. Another explosion shook the building, and debris fell from the ceiling. * * * * * * * * * * * *
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Into the Night *LETS MOVE! Demetri screamed, and the frantic scientists began in our direction, too oblivious to think for themselves. We jogged after Dr. Cail, who never broke a walk,
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although his strides were ridiculous. The building was beginning to come down on us, and there wasnt much time left as the smoke began to pour in thicker and thicker. We approached a pile of rock and debris leaning up against a wall, a flickering red exit sign directly above it. The crowd stopped in front of it, and panicked murmurs rippled around us. Any ideas? I asked my friends, who returned my question with cautious and wary stares. I can try to burn it, Lili suggested. Nah, that wont work, I responded. We wont be able to get rid of it, we have to move it. Xavier, what are the odds that youd be able to do something about it without touching it, because that stuff is heating up something fierce? Youre telepathic, so maybe you have telekinesis abilities as well, Xavier sized up the pile of burning rubble, then shrugged. Its worth a shot I guess. He held out an outstretched hand towards the rocks and closed his eyes. He exhaled deeply, and his hand began trembling. The rocks began trembling as well, and a low rumble sounded through the room. The pile of rock and debris slowly began rising in the air, much to everyones amazement, and Xavier couldnt help but smile a bit as he shifted the rocks out of the way of the door. Light filtered into the room through the cracks in the door, and everyone piled out. Beast, Lili grinned, pounding Xaviers knuckles. Outside, it was dark. Storm clouds had rolled into the evening sky, and thunder boomed, shaking the ground. There was a breeze and a light sprinkle of rain, making the arid climate feel almost chilly. The four of us and Dr.
Cail walked over to a massive tree, away from the fleeing crowd. I shivered, but not because of the biting wind and icy drops that seemed to slit my skin after the contrast from smoldering heat to cool air. The entire left half of the laboratory was immersed in an inferno of orange and
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yellow flames, slowly engulfing the rest of the structure. A helicopter was hovering over the wreckage with a ladder dangling down. Squinting closer, I realized that dozens of men were climbing up the ladder and back into the helicopter. Whatever they had come for, they got it. Hey, Xavier exclaimed, startling me as I watched the horrifically dazzling scene. Wheres Dad at? Dr. Cail turned away from the heist that was taking place, and gave Xavier a stern look. He stayed behind. He said he was going to try and stop them from stealing the serum, he said gravely. My mouth fell open. Thats crazy! Xavier said, horrified. Those people are getting away right now! What does he possibly think he could- He was cut short by yet another explosion. This time, the whole building went up in flames. The eruption was deafening, and we were thrown to the ground. My ears were ringing, and I couldnt hear anything, but to my left, I saw Xavier screaming and Cail scrambling to his feet, picking up Demetri and Lili with him. Silent tears poured down his face as Xavier took off towards the burning lab, but Demetri ran him down and tackled him. Demetris mouth formed the syllables of no, and he grabbed Xaviers arm and began towing him back to us. Dr. Cail grabbed my arm and began shouting at Lili and I. My hearing was slowly coming back, and I could now hear the panicked screams of everyone left on the scene, trying to get to their vehicles.
We dont have time! We have to get you kids out of here, now! Cail shouted, tugging Lili and I towards a black van bearing the BioNuke logo on its side. Out of my peripherals, I saw Demetri tirelessly pulling a struggling Xavier to the van. Dr. Cail slid the door open, and Lili
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jumped in. The whirr of the helicopter became louder and louder, and I was about to step up into the van, I looked up in time to see two more choppers speeding in our direction. Each one had a gunman hanging out the side of it, firing a spray of bullets down on the scientists. Everyone get down! Dr. Cail boomed, diving into the drivers seat of the van. Bullets pinged off of the metal surface of the vehicle and repelled back in random, more lethal directions. I lunged into the vehicle just as a missile whizzed by, exploding on the tree we had been standing by. I watched in horror as Xavier collapsed, and Demetri threw one of his arms around his shoulder and carried him to the van. I pulled his unconscious body into the back seat, and Demetri hopped in after him, slamming the car door behind him. What happened? Lili demanded, searching Xaviers body for a wound. Demetri shook his head, still breathing hard. He got hit. One of the gunmen hit him. * * * * * * * * * * * *
To Grandmothers House We Go Where are we going? I asked in mid-yawn. The lights zoomed past us on the busy highway; neon fluorescent colors of all kinds were just a blur. The moon was full, and my breath was fogging up the window, making it translucent. I was instructed to bring you four to Xaviers grandmothers house in Madison, Wisconsin. Dr. Lancing has a mobile lab set up in his mother-in-laws basement, and Ill be able to perform thorough tests on all of you so that we may be able to see the extent of what you
children are capable of. Dr. Cail glanced back quickly to check on Xavier, then returned his gaze to the watery road. The rain was coming down in sheets now. Xavier was lying unconscious in the spacious back of the van, which consisted of two benches on either side, and no seat belts. His head was in Lilis lap, who was sitting cross-legged in the middle of the vehicle, and was gently stroking Xaviers sweating brow. Demetri and I were sprawled out on either of the benches. Dr. Cail told us that we had a long drive ahead of us, and that we should try to sleep, but I just couldnt. Not after the scare with Xavier. I kept replaying the events in my mind when the gunmen attacked. I dove into the van when the missile exploded, and turned to see Xavier collapse as he and Demi ran for cover. Demi carried the unconscious and bleeding Xavier to the van, and I slid my arms under his armpits and yanked him in as gently and quickly as possible, which was no easy task because Xavier was by no means light, and we were under heavy gunfire. Cail had put the vehicle in reverse and was flooring it before Demetri even got the door shut all the way. Everyone was screaming in the van, yelling at Demetri clues as to what exactly had happened. He ignored us all and whipped out his pocket knife. Demi yanked off Xaviers jacket, then cut open his shirt, exposing a gaping hole directly above his right hip. Aiden, take the wheel! Dr. Cail had shouted, abandoning the drivers seat and leaving me to scramble up and grab the wheel before we lost control of the vehicle. I dunno where the freak Im going! I yelled back towards the doctor, who was examining Xaviers wounds. Just go straight! He had responded without looking up. So I did. Out of the rearview mirror, I watched the burning lab get smaller and smaller as it sunk into the horizon. I looked back to the road, squinting to see where I was going through the rapid
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movement of the wiper blades and the pouring rain. A streak of blurry lightning spider-webbed across the sky, and thunder cracked through the air. In the back, Cail had gotten out a first-aid kit, and was probing Xaviers wound with a
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metal object in his right hand, and a small flashlight in his left. Demetri grimaced as he watched the doctor examine the bloody flesh, but Lili refused to watch. She climbed up in the front seat with me, looking sickly and pale. What happened back there? I asked softly, taking a quick glance to meet her eyes. She shook her head, then looked out her window absent-mindedly. Right before we left, she began, That missile that went off right by you and hit the tree. A piece of shrapnel ricocheted off and hit Xavier in the stomach. The tree slowed it down a lot, but its still in pretty deep. Luckily, its all in one piece, so itll be eas y to get out. Or at least, thats what Dr. Cail told me. Gave him some heavy sedation, though. Xavier shouldnt wake up for a while, but when he does, hes gonna hurt something fierce. Her voice trailed off. A loud squelching noise came from the back, and I saw out of my mirrors Cail pull up a large metal object out of Xavier with a pair of small tongs. Demetri dry heaved, and Lili put her hand over her mouth. I looked away, trying not to wonder too terribly hard what the green substance that dripped off of it was. That should do it, Dr. Cail muttered. Miraculously, none of his organs were hit, and he has no internal bleeding whatsoever. I havent the slightest idea of how that happened. He sighed, then leaned back against a bench. Wiping the sweat off his forehead with the back of his hand, he instructed me to pull off onto the interstate. So what now? Demi asked, holding a blood-stained rag against Xaviers wound to stop the bleeding.
Now, Cail said, digging in his first-aid kit and pulling out a needle and thread, I have to close that wound before he loses too much blood or becomes infected. Normally, a procedure like this doesnt go this smoothly, and takes much longer to perform, but I guess this doesnt qualify as standard procedure. A vibration in the armrest of my seat made me jump. I lifted it up, and pulled out a small phone that was glowing and vibrating ferociously. I flipped it over in my palm so I could see the screen. In bright black letters, the name RICHARD LANCING glared at me. My eyes widened, and I looked over at Lili, who shared my expression. Answer it, Aiden! Right. Thats what Im supposed to do with a phone. I forgot. I pressed the receive button, then put it on speakerphone. Dr. Lancing? Is that you? I asked cautiously. Demetri had run up to the front seat, and was in the middle of Lili and I. Aiden! My boy! Dr. Lancings voice crackled through the receiver. You dont know how relieved I am to hear your voice! But wheres Dr. Cail? Hes in the back of the van, helping Xavier. Dr. Lancing, your son got hit by a piece of shrapnel from a missile. Hes going to be okay, but hell be out for a while. The other end was silent. Dr. Lancing, Cails taking good care of your boy, Demetri cut in. But what happened back there? One minute were getting super powers, and the next were on the run from something that we havent the slightest clue of! None of us signed up for this. But were here now, Lili said, giving Demetri a warning look. What about our families, Mr. Lancing? What are we supposed to tell them? There was more static through the phone.
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About that, Dr. Lancing finally said, his voice hesitant. There was a leak. Whoever broke into my lab knows who you four are. Your houses were all broken into in search of you, but luckily, I thought ahead of this. All of your families have been evacuated to the military base, Fort Gallagher, and there were no close calls. Demetris face was livid. A leak? We havent told a single person about this! Who could possibly have known his voice trailed off as he caught Lilis gaze. One of my sources traced a phone call back to a man by the name of Rodney Cage. I dont know how this man knew that the project was any bigger than the extra limbs that we led the press to believe, but hes missing now. His voice crackled and was breaking up. Doctor, were losing you. Where are you at? What do we tell Xavier? And how long are we going to have to stay with Xaviers grandma? Lili asked frantically. Intimeunderstand The phone disconnected. I tried redialing the number, but the line was dead, not even sending me to voicemail. The van was silent. That jerk sold us out. And its my fault, Demetri muttered, pounding his fist on the back of my seat. I frowned at Lili, giving her a questioning glance. Demetri said a bit too much in our government class today when he got into a debate with the teacher, Mr. Rodney Cage. Cage ended up leaving the class with his phone to his ear. It doesnt matter now, she added. What happened happened, so we need to play with the hand we were dealt. We cant take any of it back, so right now, our main focus is to get to Wisconsin and get Xavier to help. A semi-truck flew by us, honking loudly. Demetri sighed behind us and turned around. Aiden, you drive like an old lady, he said quietly, and walked hunched over to a bench, collapsing on it. Dr. Cail stood up as far as he could, then took Demis spot.
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Ill take the wheel now, Aiden. You two need to get some sleep. Ill explain everything in detail tomorrow morning. I shuffled over to Lilis side, and he took my seat. I leaned over to whisper in Lilis ear. If you want, I murmured, you can sleep on the bench back there with Demi. Or I can grab some blankets and bring them up here for you. Its your call. She leaned up to my ear. If you dont mind, Ill just sleep up here. You can have the bench. Just one blanket would be fantastic. I nodded, then retrieved a blanket from under the bench seat and gave it to her. She smiled at me, and I returned to the back seat, lying down on the bench. And that brings us to where we started. I closed my eyes, still unsure if sleep would come, but I knew it would eventually. For the time being, I had my good health. There was no point in feeling hopeless in a situation like this. Was this really the adventure that we had been looking for? Not even a day into it, and Xavier had already been shot. Hopefully this wouldnt be a foreshadowing of what was to come. I sighed one last time, then let the sleepy trance embrace me. * * * * * * * * * * * * *
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Enter: Marge We crossed the Wisconsin border at 7:03 AM, following the dreary flow of traffic off of the interstate and into the bustling town of Madison. The sky was still gray from the nights storm, and a few drops of polluted rain bounced off of the windshield of the van. I laid awake, staring at the roof. The night had been a long one, and sleep had evaded me. Demetri was seemingly unaffected, as he let loose a loud snore. I finally sat up, and rubbed my unrested eyes.
Hey Cail? I called out quietly. He tilted his head, acknowledging my voice. Why are you here? With us, I mean? Why you? There was silence, and I couldnt decide whether or not he was thinking or ignoring me. Finally, he sighed. It was one of Dr. Lancings final requests. Right when the lab exploded, he told me to bring you kids to safety. He entrusted me with your lives. Why? Ill never know. This basement lab of his has the equipment to analyze the four of you and determine exactly what the extent of your powers are so it stands to reason that this would be the best possible place to evacuate to. Demetri stirred out of the corner of my eye, and I saw him sit up and stretch his arms. So once we get to this place, youre staying with us? You wont go back home? Demetri yawned and laid back down, gazing out the window. Do you want me to go back home? No. There was more silence. Then I suppose Ill stay as long as Im needed. I glanced over to Xavier, who was still out from the heavy medication. His finger twitched once, showing signs that he was still alive. We turned onto a back road and followed it for a little ways. Small businesses with burnt out neon signs rolled by, and the air began to smell less like city and more like the country. Dr. Cail pulled the van onto a dirt road. The scenery changed from dingy buildings and streetlights to soggy pastures and grazing cattle. Demetri inhaled deeply. This reminds me of home, he said, his pupils darting back and forth as the landscape flew by. Demi, you live in an apartment, I chuckled. Yeah, but I live with a bunch of animals. I looked at him sideways. Dont you miss your family, though? He frowned, then looked away.
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Not as much as I should. We passed a small fruit market, with an elderly gentleman sitting in a rocking chair, overlooking traffic. Dr. Cail waved, and the gentleman returned his wave. Were almost there, Cail said. Lili slowly sat up straight. Good morning, he added. Lili nodded slowly and rubbed her eyes with the heels of her hands like a small child. She looked back in the back seat to check on Xavier, and I smiled at her. She returned the smile, and turned back around. The vehicle turned into a driveway, with trees surrounding the entire drive. The house wasnt visible from the road because the forest was so thick. We approached a clearing in the forest where the drive ended and a large, two-story house sat. The house was brick and had a chimney that was crumbling at the top. A white picket fence surrounded the house, and shrubbery had begun to grow over the fence. Birds chased each other around a birdfeeder that overlooked the drive. This is a really pretty place, Lili said quietly, as she opened the car door. We all filed out of the van, with no luggage to trouble us. What should we do about Xavier? Demetri asked. We cant really just leave him in there. Hell burn up. Cail began walking towards the house. Were going to have an unhappy grandma on our hands anyway, so Demetri, why dont you gently carry him to the house. Cail suggested. HAIL YEAH YOULL HAVE A UNHAPPY GRAMMA! The front door to the house banged open, and a large, black woman stormed out. Her hair was up in curlers, and she had on a flowery dress. Dr. Cail sighed, and Lilis mouth dropped. Demetri chuckled beside me. You must be Xaviers grandmother, Dr. Cail said, offering his hand.
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Da names Marge Dunn, but ya call me Gramma Dunn. Now wheres ma baby? She frowned, then waddled over to the van. Um, maam, you may not want to- Cail warned. It was too late. She threw the sliding
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door open, then peered inside. WHAT DA HAIL DID YOU DONE TO MA BABY?! She yanked him out and cradled him in her arms. Xavier, child, say somethin to me! She slapped him. Hey, Gramma Dunn, Demetri interrupted her hysterics. Hes alright, hes just sedated. He got in a little accident, but Dr. Cail here fixed him up. She slapped him again. Seriously, stop hitting him. Youll hurt him worse by doing that. Xavier groaned weakly, and opened his eyes. Gramma? He muttered. Gramma Dunn laughed hysterically, then pressed him against her bosoms in a deadly bear hug. Xavier said something, but it was muffled. Hang on Gramma Dunn, let up. I think Xaviers trying to say something, I said cautiously. She slackened her grip just a tad bit. Whatd you say, child? She asked. His face was green and sickly. I said, I think Im gonna be si- He vomited in his grandmothers chest. I knows you didnt just throw up yo guts on me. I lost it. Demetri collapsed on the ground and was clutching his throat because he couldnt breathe. Lili was doubled over, and even Dr. Cail was chuckling. Gramma Dunn grimaced at her dress, then wiped off her chest. Well, when yall get done laughing, ya might as well come in, she muttered grumpily. She hobbled back to her house, where the door was still ajar. Xavier was crumpled up on the ground, still vomiting.
I guess its safe to say that she knew we were coming, Demetri said, scooping up Xavier like he was weightless, carefully adjusting his head so that it was pointed away from his body. Demi, youre picking him up like hes nothing. When did you get so strong? Lili asked, gazing at Demis bulging arms. What are you talking about? Ive always been like this, he said, heading towards the house. Lili looked at me, and I shrugged. I wish she wouldnt have woken him up, Dr. Cail growled. Hes going to be in so much more pain now then he wouldve been in if he wouldve rested more. We all began walking towards the house as rain began sprinkling down on us. A pair of wind chimes on the front porch began ringing as the metal rods collided off each other in the wind. Demetri gently kicked open the picket fence gate and stepped into the yard. We all followed, and as soon as I crossed the fence line, a cool breeze carried the aroma of roses throughout the yard. On either side of the sidewalk leading up to the front porch, there were patches of dirt, each with red and white roses, swaying in the wind. This is gorgeous, Lili whispered. I nodded as Cail slid past us to hold open the screen door for Demetri. He crab-stepped into the house sideways, and gently set Xavier on a couch. Lili, Cail and I followed Demetri closely and quietly. The room was quaint, two couches on one end of the room, and two recliners on the other, all facing a small box television set with an antenna. There was a plaid rug in the center of the blue carpeted floor, and a ceiling fan was quietly buzzing in circles. Gramma Dunn entered the room with a metal pail and a large quilt. She set the pail near Xaviers face and laid the blanket over his shivering body. Xavier vomited
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once more into the pail, then passed out again. Gramma Dunn tisked with her tongue, then took a seat in one of the recliners, which protested under her weight. She had changed dresses. Gots a phone call from ma son-in-law late las night. Says ma babys comin, says hes bringin friends. But he also says yall are different now. Even Xavier. Says you got special powers, and dat yall need da lab downstairs. She leaned back in her chair, grabbing a remote and turning on the muted television, which was playing the 12 o clock news. Im terribly sorry that we had to come on such short notice, none of us knew that the lab catastrophe was going to happen, or that wed have to evacuate the state. The middle of Wisconsin is probably the safest place for these kids right now, Dr. Cail explained. Gramma Dunn frowned. Wait, what lab catastrophe? She enunciated the word catastrophe. Dr. Cail looked at the three of us for help. Richard didnt say nothin bout no catastrophe. Well look, I said, pointing towards the television screen as the burning lab appeared on screen with the captions TERRORIST ATTACK? underneath it. It looks like theyre talking about right now, if you want to unmute it. Dont you tell me what ta do, ya skinny white boy. She unmuted the television. A female news reporter was standing in front of the lab. This is the scene that is currently underway at BioGene Industries, as investigators try to determine the source of the explosions that took place late last night. Witnesses report seeing several military-grade helicopters flying over the lab, with hordes of men climbing up and down ladders dangling from them. Even more shocking are the events that were occurring shortly before the attack, as one member of the BioGene team, Anne Elte, tells all. The camera went to a small woman, who was still wearing her earpiece. The secretary.
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Anne! Demetri cried. She wouldnt I managed to sneak into one of the test rooms last night, I mean, all the biggest names in science were there. I had to see what was going on. I got there, and I was in the back, but I could still see everything that was happening. Four kids, including Richard Lancings son, were sent down to the basement of the lab to test out this new product of Dr. Lancings. When they came back up, they all had these weird abilities, like one of them, she could make fire, and another could freeze people up. It was crazy. The camera went back to the news lady. These four children are currently missing and at large. They are wanted for illegal experimentation, and if seen, they are to be reported and turned in at once. They are a danger to society and must be brought in for questioning, treatment, and trial. Here is a picture of them. The screen changed to a picture of the four of us, arms around each others shoulders, grinning widely at the camera. It was from the summer of last year. The television went black. So yall are fugitives on the run from da fuzz, and Im spposed ta keep yall hidden? Is dat whatcha tellin me? Gramma Dunn set the remote down, and began rocking back and forth in her recliner. Unfortunately, thats what it looks like, Dr. Cail admitted. An why should I do dat? She folded her arms, and looked expectantly at Cail. Your son-in-law trusted you with these kids, including his own son. So if he does, then I do too. They have nowhere else to go. Youre their only hope for survival while they try to figure out what they are capable of. Well lay low here for a little while, then try to blend back in with society, if all goes well. That is, if you agree to this. I glanced over at Demetri and Lili, who were quietly listening to the conversation that was taking place. Gramma Dunn was silent, as she mulled over her situation.
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Alright. Fine. Yall will stay here. But yall better be on yo best behaviors. None of dat magic power stuff in da house, ya take it outside. I gots a guest room, two couches, and two recliners. Fight amongst yaselves for who gets what. She stood up, and walked into the kitchen. Thank you, Mrs. Dunn, Cail called after her. She replied with an Mmhm. Demetri, Lili and I took spots on the couch opposite from Xavier, and Dr. Cail sat down in a recliner. Cail, you can have the guest bedroom, and well just pick spots in the living room, Demetri said. Sound alright to everyone? Im cool with that, I agreed. Sounds good, Lili nodded. Well, that was easy enough, Cail said. Now well head downstairs, and start the tests. Demetri, I wanna start with you first, because the effects on you are the strangest. Demetri looked down at his white t-shirt, reaching up to his chest and feeling the outline of his dog tags he had worn since he was little. Alright, good. The anticipation has been killing me. Demetri stood up, and walked to the kitchen. I glanced at Lili, who shrugged, and followed Demetri. Cail sighed and stood up. So how exactly are you going to be able to tell what our powers are? I asked, in an attempt to break the ice between the quiet doctor, whom nobody really knew anything about. Well, in theory, he explained, There is a machine that I can hook you up to that will give a DNA reading in real time, so well be able to identify the changes that have taken place in it. Once we have those readings, well be able to analyze it with the small supercomputer down there, and it should tell us the modifications that have been made to your genes. I nodded, still just as clueless as I was before he explained. Just go with it. Well get it all figured out. I chuckled, then followed my friends into the kitchen.
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Stairs are down der, Gramma Dunn pointed a wooden spoon towards a doorway at the back of the kitchen. She turned a knob on the oven clockwise, filled a pot full of water, and set it on the stove. Suppers at seven o clock sharp. Dont yall be late. I is bein serious, I like ta eat. You one minute late, itll be gone, an Ill probably eat you next. I looked at the clock, which read 5:04. I decided not to be late. We stepped through a door in the kitchen, and descended down a flight of creaking wooden stairs. As we got lower, the stench of mothballs became more and more overwhelming. The bottom of the basement was dark, until Dr. Cail flipped a switch that was out of sight, revealing a basement full of heavy machinery. He flipped another switch, and the machinery came to life, with flashing lights and loud humming. There was one corner of the basement with old pictures and antique memorabilia, but other than that, the room was occupied with technology. Alright, children. My name is Dr. Caleb Cail. I designed every piece of equipment you see in this room, he said smiling, as he ran a hand through his graying hair. All of this was created in the event that the Infinite serum actually worked, so that we might not be totally in the dark. Demetri, if youll be so kind as to have a seat in that chair over there. He pointed towards a black leather chair that was the spitting image of a torture device. It had manacles on the armrests, and a salon-style helmet to fit over the head. On either side of the chair, there was a long metal arm with a rather large needle and syringe. Id rather not, Demetri said weakly, staring in horror at the death trap. Oh come on, Dr. Cail laughed. Its not nearly as bad as it looks. Trust me. Im a doctor. Demetri sighed, and reluctantly crawled up into the chair.
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Yeah, thats reassuring, he muttered under his breath. Cail walked up to a computer monitor adjacent to the chair. He tapped the touch screen a few times, then looked at the petrified Demetri. This may sting a little bit. Demetri opened his mouth to protest, but Cail tapped the screen once more, cutting him off. The helmet of the chair went down, and the needle arms slowly injected themselves into Demetris arms, drawing his blood into them. Demetri was yelling, but it was barely audible over the crackle of electricity. Smoke leaked out of the helmet as it rose off of his head, and the needles withdrew themselves. Demetri stared wide-eyed and straight ahead as the manacles unlatched. Demetri stood up slowly and stepped down, facing the smirking doctor. I hate you. Surely it wasnt that bad? If I had Lilis powers, Id burn you. Suck it up. He turned back to the computer, and Demetri grumpily returned to Lili and I, who were watching in silent horror. Now this computer will analyze your blood samples, scan your DNA, and record your brainwaves. In a few seconds, we should have the verdict as to what makes you weird. If my brainwaves could scream, they would. The basement door banged open. WHAT DA HAIL IS YALL DOIN DOWN DARE?! KEEP YA SCREAMIN DOWN, ITS INTERRUPTIN THE FOOD MAKIN PROCESS! Yes Gramma Dunn! We all shouted back simultaneously. The computer dinged as the door slammed. It looks like the results are in, Dr. Cail said, staring intently at the computer screen.
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Well? Demetri inquired. Dont leave me hanging. I leaned forward, anxious to hear what Dr. Cail had to say. Cail looked up from the computer screen, then to Demetri, with a curious look on his face. It looks like, he began, Were going to flight school. * * * * * * * * * * * * *
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Flight School The van rattled and rolled up the winding path to Cryos Drop, one of the largest cliffs in Wisconsin. It overlooked a large and sprawling forest, well-known for its population and wide variety of wildlife. The dirt road up the cliff was bumpy, and also surrounded by trees and wildlife. Man, I hate nature, Xavier complained, as he pulled at the large white bandage that wrapped around his entire lower torso. When Demetri, Lili and I were loading up for our road trip, Xavier had hobbled out the door, with his grandmother screaming and cursing after him. It took a while, but Cail had managed to pacify her into letting Xavier go, as long as he promised to be extremely careful and be back by dinner. Dr. Cail had floored it out of there before she had the opportunity to change her mind. We were fairly certain she had bid us farewell in the form of some vulgar curse words. You know, Xavier, Demetri had said as we left the driveway. I really dont like your grandma much. Xavier popped a Tylenol. She grows on you after a while. Like a wart. Or syphilis, he replied. Xavier had clamored out of the vehicle at the foot of the mountain, muttering something about having to use the restroom. He insisted that we didnt wait up, so the four of us trekked up the mountain without him. Now, the van pulled up to the clearing right before the edge of the
cliff. There was a picnic table and a small gazebo in the clearing. If I had to guess, this was a site for weddings and such. I slid the van door back and stepped out, breathing in the cool mountain air. Demetri followed behind me, looking pale. I couldnt blame him. Twenty miles off of the
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ground would be intimidating to anyone. I guess that meant he had more time to figure out how to survive before he hit the ground. Lili followed Dr. Cail to the edge of the cliff. Dont sweat it, man, I assured Demetri, putting my hand on his shoulder and steering him towards the edge of the cliff. This is what you were meant for! He swallowed hard and nodded. We walked to the edge of the cliff, and Lili met him with a huge grin, but Cail greeted him with folded arms and an expectant look on his face. He motioned towards the edge of the cliff. After you. And Id hurry. Gramma Dunn will eat you if youre late, Cail said impatiently. Demetri inched towards the edge, peering over the side. The massive forest canopy appeared as if each individual tree was a microscopic dot, and the clouds were eye level. Demetris heart began racing, and he placed his hand around the outline of his dog tags, rubbing them back and forth. His white shirt rippled across his muscular torso in the wind. I dunno if I can do this, guys. Its really, really hi- I shoved him hard from behind, and he tripped over his foot trying to catch himself. His eyes met mine in pure horror as he fell over the edge of the cliff. So what exactly is supposed to happen now? I asked Dr. Cail, watching Demetri descend to the bottom. You know, Im actually not all that sure. The wind whistled past Demetri as he fell. His mind raced almost as fast as he was falling. What was he supposed to do? He struggled to keep his eyes open as the wind burned
through them, making them water. The ground was approaching closer and closer; the trees that were once microscopic now seemed colossal. His breathing rate increased rapidly, and soon he was hyperventilating. Demetri tried to steady his fall, but his body was flipping and rolling in the
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air much too fast to control. He fell, increasing in speed faster and faster, the canopy drawing nearer and nearer, until he knew he was past the point of no return. He could see every individual branch and leaf on the tree he was about to collide with, and finally, he gave up, accepting the fall. Demetri slammed hard into a solid surface. His eyes were squeezed tightly shut, and the wind had been knocked out of him from the impact of the fall. Cautiously, Demetri opened his eyes. He was suspended in midair only inches from the tip of the tree. Demetri rolled his eyes in relief. I knew you didnt have to pee at the rest stop at the bottom of the mountain, Xavier! He laughed once his breath returned to him. Xavier moved out from under the tree so that he was barely visible to Demetri. No you didnt! He called back. You thought you were gonna die! Xavier slowly guided him through the brush and trees as best he could, and Demetri was on the ground. Alright. So I thought I was done for. Lessons learned. Now how am I supposed to get back up there? They both looked straight up to the top of the cliff, which was shrouded in a thin cloud cover. Arent you supposed to be able to fly or something? Xavier shielded his eyes from the sun, and turned to Demetri. Guess this will be a bumpy ride then. He held out his hand toward Demetri, then flicked his wrist, sending Demetri rocketing upwards. I sure hope he gets it right this time. Its almost seven. Hes bound to get eaten, Xavier muttered to himself.
Demetri whistled through the air, desperately praying that Xavier still had control of him. He soared past the edge of the cliff where we were standing, arms and legs flailing wildly. He came back down and landed hard on his backside, rubbing it as he grumpily stood back up. What happened? Lili asked him, dusting off his back. Demi scowled. Well some jerk pushed me off a cliff. I panicked. Xavier saved my skin. And that just about sums it up, Demetri growled, striding back towards the edge of the cliff. Well, Dr. Cail said, arching one eyebrow, Xavier will not be catching you a second time. This is still a life or death situation. Now are you going to jump, or will you require Aidens encouragement again? Demetri grimaced, then turned his attention to the sprawling forest below him. A look of determination that was not previously there had taken residence on his face. His eyes were focused, his jaw set. I think I can handle it this time, he murmured. He stepped back from the cliff, putting distance between himself and the edge. Demetri inhaled deeply, then sprinted towards the edge of Cryos Drop, launching himself into the open air. As he fell, he flipped his body, willing it to go into a diving position. Concentrate, he thought. Think flight. Im an eagle. An owl. An angel Demetri closed his eyes, taking in the bitingly cold air that whipped his face. As he focused, a stream of light shot up the middle of his pure white t-shirt. The shirt then split along the crack, folding out into two pieces of cloth behind him. The cloth began gaining density, filling out as muscles started forming underneath it. Feathers began sprouting from the torn cloth, and slowly, the shirt remnants expanded larger and larger until they had become a pair of large, white wings across his back. His t-shirt had become a pair of feathery wings that spanned at least fourteen feet across. Demetri opened his eyes in shock. Now thats what Im talking about, he
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smirked, as he flapped his wings for the first time. The single flap sent him shooting upwards. Demetri began shouting from excitement as he scaled higher and higher up the cliff. He whooped and hollered all the way to the top, doing intricate swirls and maneuvers as if hed been flying his whole life. Demi came to a soft landing at the top of the cliff, where he was greeted by three open mouths. Well, what do you guys think? Im not a dud after all. He grinned the biggest grin Id ever seen on his face. Bro, you have angel wings. That is probably the sickest thing Ive ever seen, I said, pounding his outstretched knuckles. Youreripped, Lili said softly. Demetri looked down at his exposed torso for the first time since he ingested the serum. She was right. His dog tags hung tightly over his pectoral muscles, which had become massive and cut up. His abs, well, he now had eight of them, each one a smooth and chiseled stone, like a Greek statue. His arms had also become massive, the thick bands of his triceps wrapping around the bottom of his arms, while his massive biceps rested tightly on top. Alright, Demetri said in awe. I didnt look like this ten minutes ago. If I had to guess, Dr. Cail cut in, Id say your transformation finally triggered the rest of the change from the serum. All that the results pointed to was that you could fly. I guess this explains the white shirt now. Your wings disguised themselves as an article of clothing. Demetri withdrew his wings, folding them back around his body. The line of light appeared straight down his chest again, and the feathers shot back in, the muscles faded away. The pair of wings that were once there had been replaced with an unblemished white hoodie.
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Huh, Demetri bemused, stretching his arms out and examining his shirt. I didnt think that would actually work. I guess they can change into whatever shirt I want them to change into. Thats sweet. He looked at all of our expectant facial expressions, then began walking back to the van. Alrighty then, he said, Lets go. This guy right here is not going to get eaten. Lili, Cail and I shared a glance, then Cail shrugged. We joined Demi and begun walking back to the van. Dont forget to grab Xavier on your way back, Lili reminded Cail. He nodded, and slid into the drivers seat. We piled in after him as he started the car. Would that be funny? Demi asked mischievously. If we came back and didnt even have Xavier? Id probably giggle. No, Cail answered sternly. That would not be funny at all. * * * * * * * * * * * * *
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Supper, Not Dinner When we pulled into Gramma Dunns driveway, she was waiting for us on the porch, sitting in a rusted metal porch chair. I stepped out of the van, my friends following close. Six fifty-foar, Gramma yelled as Xavier slammed the van door shut behind him. Now yall have six minutes ta be in yo chairs, hands washed and folded, ready ta thank da good Loard for yo meal. As that was said, the four of us sprinted towards the house, laughing. Gramma stood up and held the door for us. Did everythin go alright? She asked Cail as he approached, hands in his pockets. Not jus wit Xavier, but wit da other boy too? Cail smiled warmly. Everything went perfect. There was no trouble at all. She over-exaggerated relief, winking at Dr. Cail.
Dats good, I was makin supper worryin ma precious little head off. Ya know Doctor, you is a mighty handsome gentleman, comin from an ol goat like maself. Cail laughed as he stepped up onto the porch. Call me Caleb. Marge, how old do you think I am? He asked, grinning at her. Hm, she thought, rubbing her chin. Maybe thirty-eight? Caleb Cail laughed again, taking the door from her with an after you. Close, he chuckled. I actually celebrated my fifty-eighth birthday a month ago. But you sure do know how to make an old man feel good. Is there a Mr. Dunn in the picture, may I ask? Gramma Dunn stepped inside, and Cail followed. They walked slowly to the kitchen. Im fraid not, she said, shaking her head sadly. Grampa Dunn was killed in Nam, on da enemy soil. We dont talk about it much, though. Now go wash yo hands, its six fifty-nine. Dr. Cail gave her a small smile, then left for the bathroom. I wouldnt use dat toilet if I was you, she called after him. Dat suckas been used, abused, and deres a good possibility you gonna get radiation poisonin. It dont work. She yanked out one of the wooden chairs that surrounded the wooden table and joined my friends and I, who were washed up and ready to go. The room smelled like heaven. The table was ornately decorated with multicolored bowls filled with steaming hot vegetables. A plate of buttery rolls lay off to the side, and I had already decided the quickest possible route to grab as many as I could without losing a hand. In the center of the table, there was a plate of fried chicken, the grease shining off of it in the light of the overhead ceiling fan. Cail walked in, wiping his hands on his pants, and sat down in the unoccupied chair next to me. The table was circular, so we were all facing each other. Demetri reached out for a roll. Dinner looks great, Gramma Du- She smacked his hand with a wooden spoon.
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Its supper, not dinner. Now we gonna give our thanks to da Loard now, She announced once Cail had taken his seat and placed his napkin in his lap. You know him? Who would have thought? Demi said grumpily, rubbing his hand. She
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leaned across the table. I aint kiddin when I says I is gonna eat you. Dont you think I wont. She bowed her head, and the rest of us did the same. Loard, thank yous fo such blessins yous have bestowed upon us. Thank yous fo our good health, and Xaviers quick recovery. Thank yous fo dese guests, and may you watch ova dem, and guide dem in da right direction. Lastly, thank yous fo da food, Loard, and may it provide da energy we all need. In Yo name wes a prayin, Amen. Amen, the rest of the table repeated. I filled my plate, reaching across dishes and hands, and once my plate was full, I put my hands in my lap, waiting for the others to finish. Thank you for dinner, Lili said once she had filled her plate. Everything looks amazing. The table nodded in agreement. Grammas notorious for being the best cook in all of Wisconsin. She killed that possum this morning, Xavier said, cutting up his food. Cail coughed. Er, possum? He said, covering his mouth. I, um, I thought this was chicken, Demetri stammered. Gramma Dunn forked a massive piece of the mystery meat into her mouth, winking at Xavier. Relax, child. I is not about to eat some nasty rodent like an opossum. Its alligator. Had it shipped from Louisiana. Gots family down in those parts. Dig in! She ate another piece. I prodded the meat with my fork, then shrugged, spearing the meat and sticking it in my mouth. I chewed slowly. Its not bad, I admitted, my mouth full of food. It actually does taste like chicken.
Chew wit yo dang mouth shut. Aint nobody wanna see that nasty funk. I promptly shut my mouth then glanced over at Demi, who was watching me intently. I clutched my hand at my throat. Wait a minute, I gagged. This food! Im slowly losing consciousness Lili and Xavier laughed, and Demetri threw his wadded up napkin at me, grinning. Scuse me! Gramma shouted. If yall are quite finished, we gonna finish this meal before the dang lizard comes back ta life. Thank you, dat is all. She took another massive bite of the alligator. Demetri looked at his plate once more, then to the rest of us who were happily eating away at our alligator. He shook his head, then took a bite of the meat. Once he decided he liked it, he dove straight into his meal, not saying another word. The rest of the meal was eaten in silence. Not an awkward silence, but a silence that came from a heavenly meal that was too good to be interrupted with words. Or at least thats how I thought of it. Once we had finished and the dishes had been done, everyone went off to their separate corners for the night. Gramma had stayed to watch the nine o clock news, which told a paraphrased story of the noon news, then she went to her room for the evening after wishing us goodnight. Shortly after, Cail had left for the guest bedroom, but before he left, he informed us that he would finish the research on the rest of us tomorrow. So that left the four of us. Xavier sat upright on one of the couches, with Lili at the other end, curled up under a blanket. He took off his shirt, tossing it on the floor, then gently pulled at his bandages, unraveling them like a mummy. Once he had taken them off, he revealed the wound to the rest of us. There was a wide line across his side that was an angry red. It was laced with black thread, sealed shut tightly from infection. The whole area had risen and swollen, and his skin around it looked pink and puffy, but other than that, the wound looked good and free of infection.
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Man, Xavier murmured, rubbing the scar softly. This thing hurts like balls, but at least its getting better. I barely even notice it now. Do balls hurt pretty bad? Lili teased. Think of it like this, I said, leaning back in the recliner, adjusting my quilt. Each time a man gets kicked, punched, or suffers some other form of brutal contact to the genital area, thats the equivalent to you birthing a thousand children. Well that wouldnt hurt too bad after the hundredth kid or so. At once. Oh. That is totally not true at all. So long story short, Xavier chuckled, It still hurts. A lot. But its getting better. Ill be in tip-top fighting condition in no time. He stood up and walked to the other couch, carefully laying down on it. I glanced over at Demetri, who was lying face-down in the outstretched recliner. Hey, Demi, I whispered. He didnt answer. Lili and Xavier giggled. Hey, hey Demi, I said a little louder. Still, he didnt reply. Poke him! Lili mouthed. I shook my head. I have a better idea, I mouthed back, eying his dangling arm. I ran to the kitchen, and returned with a porcelain bowl filled with warm water. I tiptoed over to Demetri, crouching next to the armchair. Xavier buried his face in his pillow to keep from laughing, and Lili rolled her eyes, silently shaking with laughter. I reached out and gently pulled his arm towards the bowl, sticking his fingers in the warm water. Xavier lost it, and Lilis face turned red. I hate all of you.. Demetri mumbled through the chair headrest. He flipped his arm out of the water, spraying me with warm fluid. I was awake. Stupid. I laughed, snatching the
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bowl from him and keeping a safe distance, although he never took his face out of the cushion, and he was still laying facedown. On that note, I laughed, placing the bowl on a coffee table, We should all probably try to get some sleep. No telling what tomorrows gonna bring. I second that motion, Lili yawned, stretching out on the couch. Every days an adventure, Xavier chuckled, pulling the covers up over him. Motions carried, Demetri said through the chair. Now turn the lights off and shut up. I walked over to the lamp that was providing the rooms only light and flipped it off. Walking back to my chair, I punched Demi in the back, hard. He groaned, but made no attempt to hit me back. I slid into the chair and flipped the lever, causing the leg rest to pop out and the head rest to go back. I pulled the elaborately designed quilt over me, closed my eyes, and began to sleep. It wasnt as hard as the last night. I was finally coming to peace with the situation. Maybe it wouldnt be so bad after all. If only I knew. * * * * * * * * * * * * *
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A Good Day I was flying. I didnt understand it, and I knew I had to be dreaming, but I was flying in the air. All I could see below me was a ground of clouds. The air around me was filled with the sound of many voices in a hushed murmur, the sound of children laughing, wine glasses clinking, and a string quartet. I couldnt locate the source of the noise, but it was surrounding me. Suddenly, the pale blue sky dissolved around me, transforming into an elegant ballroom, the blue of the sky melting down the dark red walls of the ballroom. There were several people, all dressed in expensive clothes, chattering quietly amongst themselves. I looked down at my attire, which consisted of athletic shorts and a t-shirt, but no
one seemed to notice me, let alone care. The crowd of people split, the low murmur of the crowd continuing, but revealing a path to a throne. On the throne, there was seated a man dressed in a dark tuxedo. I walked up the velvet red carpet that led to the throne, and he stared at me intently as I approached. In his hand, there was a ruby red apple, the same shade as Snow Whites apple after it had been dipped in poison. His eyes were dark. Not dark, like an absence of light, but dark as in menacing. There were no pupils in the center of his iris, and there was no white. His eyes were spheres of darkness, with only a speck of light reflecting off of them. He appeared demonic. The demon man lifted his empty hand and motioned for me to approach. I cautiously walked a few feet closer to the throne, then stopped. Why have you come here? He said in a low and soothing voice. I swallowed hard. My heart was racing, and just being in his presence put a fear in me that gripped my soul with an iron fist. I was actually hoping you would be able to tell me, I stammered. Where am I? You fear me, he cooed, as the apple in his hand began to levitate in the space just above his fingertips. Fear is a sign of weakness, and weakness, he clenched his outstretched hand into a fist, and the apple disintegrated, falling away as dust in a breeze that seemed to come from nowhere, Will get you killed. He stood up, towering over me. We shall meet again, Aiden West. When we do, be a formidable opponent. I will not fight a fool. I opened my mouth to protest, but no words came out. The fear was just too immense. He laughed a menacing laugh that rang through the ballroom, and I became painfully aware of the silent room as his laughter echoed. The room was empty, the guests, band, and decorations were gone. It was an empty
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room, aside from myself and this demon man. He looked away for a moment, then looked back at me. There are matters that require my immediate attention, he said. Remember what I said, child. He disintegrated into another breeze as the apple did, and the walls began blurring again. The colors shifted back into the blue of the sky, and I was flying again. Or, perhaps, falling. I no longer felt in control. Helplessness washed over me as I plummeted. A gunshot rippled through the air. Was someone shooting at me? I looked around for the source, but still yielded no results. A second gunshot boomed, and a sharp pain split my face. Wake up. Cail slapped the side of my face again. I sat straight upright with a jolt, smacking my forehead on Dr. Cails, who was leaned over me. I laid back down, groaning and rubbing my forehead. It was still pitch black outside, and through the translucent auburn curtains I could see the pale full moon. He stood up, scowling and rubbing his own forehead. Get up, he muttered. We have things to do. I sat back up, much slower this time. What are you talking about, I groaned, checking my phone for the time. It was four thirty-seven. No. Absolutely not. I refuse to do anything that requires any kind of effort at this ungodly hour. Besides sleep. Lili padded over to the couch, barefoot, and her toothbrush in her mouth. The bathroom light shone brightly into the living room, and I had to shield my eyes. Come on, Aiden, she said, foaming at the mouth with toothpaste. Cail says we have stuff that we gotta do. Plus, you were moaning in your sleep. So either you were having a really perverted dream, or a nightmare. My guess is the latter, because the moans were not pleasant. So I dont think that sleeping again would be in your best interest. She walked back to the bathroom.
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SHUT DA DANG DOAR! Gramma Dunn shouted from her room. The bathroom door slammed shut and it was dark again, aside from the moonlight shining in. You all will start your training today, he said, walking over to the coffee table. He
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picked up the bowl of warm water and carried it over to Demetri, who had fallen back asleep on the recliner. Wake up. Demetri didnt move. Cail poured the bowl onto Demetris head. Demi jumped upright, smacking his forehead on the porcelain bowl, and laid back down, rubbing his head. Was that absolutely necessary? He stood up slowly and gently unfolded his wings, still rubbing his head grumpily, and let them drip onto the carpet. Demetri! I scolded. What? Itll dry. He folded his wings into a snow white hoodie, and stormed outside. Yeah, that was probably overkill, I laughed as Cail woke Xavier up in a much kinder fashion. He shrugged. Eh. It got the job done. Why dont you go join him while Lili does her girl stuff and I rebandage Xavier, he suggested. I stood up, rubbing my tired eyes. I was exhausted. In a zombie-like walk, I practically dragged myself out the door, still wearing my white V-neck and tight fitting jeans which were now looser from wearing them so long. The air outside was cool; a borderline chilly breeze washed over me, lifting my messy hair. Demetri was standing in the middle of the yard, his wings outstretched and his chest bare. He let the wind rustle them, causing the white feathers to ripple.
Arent you cold? I asked as I approached. He flapped his wings forward once, causing a concussion of bitter wind to slam into me, knocking my off my feet. If I wasnt awake earlier, I was now. Sorry, man, he apologized, holding out his hand to help me up. I cant even feel the air outside. It doesnt affect me. I took his hand and he yanked me onto my feet. I staggered as I struggled to regain my balance. What could we possibly need to do at five in the morning? He complained. I found my equilibrium, and shrugged. Your guess is as good as mine. The screen door opened, and Xavier and Lili walked out, Cail following closely. Lili shivered and lit a flame in her palm, holding it close to her chest. The sleeves to her red Hollister jacket were pulled over her hands so that they werent visible. Demetri folded his wings back to his jacket. Alright. Load up the van. Cail was already at the vehicle, turning over the ignition. Great, Demetri muttered. The last time we took an off-campus field trip, I got pushed off a cliff. These are just all sorts of fun! He rolled his eyes and headed for the van. Hey, it could be worse, Xavier said cheerfully. You could have a bullet hole in your side. Xavier took off after him. Lili rolled her eyes. Drama queen, she said, following the boys. I sighed. Today was going to be a good one. I could feel it. * * * * * * * * * * * * *
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Training Exercise It wasnt until we had reached the heart of the forest until I began wondering what lie in store for us. The trip didnt get bizarre until Cail asked Demetri and Lili to get out of the car. He followed them out, spoke to them briefly, then reentered the vehicle, alone. We drove off without
Demi and Lili, and I looked out the back window of the van, watching them disappear into the murky forest. I looked at Xavier, who returned my look with a shrug. Dr. Cail cleared his throat. Heres the deal, he informed us. Its five o four. You have one hour, one, to find your
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companions in this forest. The catch is, when you find them, you are to fight them. Utilize restraint, and put them in a position of submission, whereas if it were a serious brawl, you would kill them. Who says brawl? I scoffed. Thats like something my grandma would say. My gramma says scuffle, Xavier added. Cail massaged his eyelids with his nondriving hand. You know what? It really doesnt matter, he said grumpily. Are there any questions as to whats going down? There were no questions. Good. Now get out. He pulled the vehicle over to the side of the road. Xavier and I got out of the car without a word. Dr. Cail rolled down the window. You have until six. Find them, and compromise them. He rolled the window back up, turned the van around, and headed back in the way he came. I sighed, putting my hands behind my head and observing my surroundings. On either side of me was heavy vegetation. Other than that, nothing. Well, what now? Xavier asked, looking around cautiously. I thought about it for a moment. I guess we start heading back through the forest and try to find the others, I yawned. That could take hours though, he complained. Were at least five miles apart. This forest is huge. I began walking towards the woods. A small acorn caught my eye amidst the dew-covered ground. I picked it up, and tossed it to Xavier, who caught it in one hand.
Whats this all about? He inquired, examining the nut. Throw it at me. As hard as you can. Just do it. Xavier looked from the acorn to me, then shrugged. He hurled the acorn at me as hard as he could. I blinked, and the acorn stopped,
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inches from my face. Behind the acorn was a stream of dew that trailed after it, suspended in midair. Dont you see, Xav? I laughed. Time is never an issue, because its mine to do with as I will. I am master over it. He walked up to the suspended nut and frowned. Youre not gonna leave that like that are you? He asked. It was my turn to frown. Never mind, I muttered. The acorn dropped to the ground, accompanied by the dew trail. Lets just go. I trekked through the marshy grass and into the brush of the woods, Xavier following me closely. Birds sang through the treetops, and crickets chirped away happily. The sun had begun to come up off in the horizon, casting a red glare on the forest floor. All was calm. * * * * * * * * * * * * *
Just the Two of Us Two miles away, Demi and Lili had reached a clearing in the woods. After traveling through the heavy brush that consisted of thorns and wildflowers alike, they had finally stumbled upon a small opening where the weeds and grass had appeared to be mowed down. A wall of trees surrounded the opening, and the sun was creeping over the canopy. Demetri padded through the dewy grass to a small boulder and sat down, patting the vacant opening on the rock for Lili to join him. She walked over, purposely stepping on pile of leaves on her way over. Those two will find us, Demetri assured as Lili sat down next to him, back to back. She smoothed out her hoodie, then shoved her hands deep into her pockets. What are we doing, Demi? She asked, not bothering to look at him.
Were waiting for Aiden and Xavier to come so we can kick their butts. Remember? He said, uprooting a weed from the ground and absent-mindedly playing with it, twirling it around his fingers. No, I mean, what are we doing? She repeated, turning herself around so that she was side to side with Demetri. Training? For what? The only people that are out to get us is the government. We arent going to fight them. She laughed. I just feel ridiculous. Running around with superpowers like Im meant for something greater. Demetri frowned and peered sideways at her. What are you talking about, Lil? You are meant for something greater. And this is it. You didnt get these powers by accident. Its your destiny. I know it sounds lame, especially coming from me, but still. His voice trailed off as he looked to the sky, watching a flock of sparrows swarm above the treetops. How can you be so sure? She asked concernedly, scanning Demetris vacant expression. Because I know you. You cant let things be. The worlds a messed up place, and now you finally have the means of fixing it. Your heart is just too caring to leave it as it is. She blushed. And you can totally burn stuff. Nobody in their right mind would mess with you. Ive been out of my right mind my entire life, and I still know better than to get on your bad side. Lili smiled, and Demetri winked at her. Youre pretty great yourself, too, you know? She said. Demi scoffed. Hardly. Im a freaking bird. He chuckled in spite of his words. She shook her head. Nah. I disagree. Youre the strongest guy on the team. I could take you, but youre still pretty awesome in my book. She returned his wink.
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Yeah? He laughed. Whatever. He stood up and stretched, looking around and gathering his bearings. We should probably get going. The suns rising and we dont have much time left. Lili stood up as well. Weve known each other our whole lives, Lili began slowly. Yup, Demetri interrupted, We have. Lets roll. He jogged off towards tree line, unfolding his wings. And you still never cease to amaze me, She muttered under her breath. She rolled her eyes and took off after him. His newfound strength made him ridiculously fast and hard to keep up with. You coming? He called after her. Do I have a choice? Nope. Move it. * * * * * * * * * * * * *
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Compromised But seriously though. It could take forever to find them. Were gonna have to move ridiculously fast, Xavier said worriedly. I picked up a stick and snapped it, tossing it off to the side. We have to account for the fact that theyre gonna use the air with Demis wings. All we need to do is keep going straight. Theyll find us. Xavier thought about this, then nodded in agreement. We walked for quite a while, although when I glanced at my phone, it read that only thirty minutes had passed. I frowned.
Well Xav, I may have been wrong. Thats only happened twice, that I know of. Xavier laughed as he pushed aside more brush, following the trail I was making. An owl screeched overhead. Aiden! Did you hear that? Xavier asked, stopping in his tracks. Relax, man. It was just an owl. No! Listen. I stopped too, and was silent. The crickets were ferociously droning, and the wind rustled the trees. There was a crackling noise in the brush straight ahead of us, as something rustled around in it. I heard it that time! I gasped, straining my eyes in the dim light to find the source of the commotion. I crept towards the brush slowly, my fists raised and ready to stop someone in their tracks. A breeze drifted through the forest, causing a ripple in the trees above. The brush rustled again, I froze, preparing for the worst. A startled raccoon darted out of the sticks and bushes and scurried off. I breathed a sigh of relief. Hey thanks for the help, I said sarcastically. Xavier shrugged. You looked like you had it under control. I rolled my eyes and took a step forward. As I did, I heard a strange whistling noise. I stopped yet again, and looked around. What was that? I asked Xavier, who was looking around for the source of the sound. He opened his mouth to speak, but as he did, his eyes grew wide. AIDEN, LOOK OUT! He yelled, diving off to the side. I turned around just in time to see a massive fireball sailing past trees and sailing straight towards me. I flung myself onto the forest floor, barely missing it by less than an inch. The heat was so intense that my face began to sweat, making me feel as if I was melting. The fireball kept
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going and hit a tree, dissipating as soon as it made contact. Xavier scrambled to his feet and helped me up. They found us, I panted. The forest is too wet to catch on fire, what with all the rain that weve had. Thats why he wanted us to go so early, so the dew would still be fresh and wet. I looked around cautiously. Get back-to-back with me, that way all of our ground is covered. They know where we are, so they just need to strike now. Xavier backed up to me, fists raised. Another fireball came soaring from the east. Xavier raised his hand towards the fireball and flicked his wrist, sending it flying back the other way. They have to be over there! Xavier exclaimed, pointing in the direction of the fireball. Lets move! We took off towards the source of the fire, smashing through the brush and tripping over roots. The whistling sound rang again. I stopped. Wait a minute.. I fell to the ground again, as yet another fireball zoomed past, this time from behind. What the heck? Xavier hissed, staying crouched down. That one came from behind us! A faint shadow passed over us, and I looked up. There! I whispered, pointing towards the sky. Between a gap in the canopy, I watched as Demetri glided over the treetops, Lili clinging onto his back, another fireball in her hand and ready to fire. I glanced back at Xavier. When she throws that fireball, catch it with your mind, then throw it back at them. Think you can do that? I asked Xavier. He nodded, then concentrated on the flaming orb. She pulled back her arm and chucked the fire with the finesse of a Major League pitcher. It hurtled down to us, and Xavier closed his eyes. The orb froze in the air. He flicked his wrist and launched it back.
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Neither of them were paying attention, so when the fiery mass came flying at them, Demetri panicked and turned sharply. Lili lost her balance and slipped off of his back. Xavier gasped beside me as I took of sprinting towards her. I focused on her, and she
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crashed through the tree limbs slower and slower until she halted to a stop, suspended in midair. I jumped for distance, smashing into her as I released my hold. We fell into the wet ground, barely missing a patch of thorns. I had her pinned down by the hands, putting my full weight on her. Consider yourself compromised, I smirked, and she rolled her eyes. I stood up and dusted myself off; pieces of sticky wet grass and dead leaves clung to my clothes. Lili pushed herself off of the ground. So now I guess Im gonna supervise, She said as she pulled a weed out of her hair. That was really scary. Nah, I laughed, punching her in the arm. I had you the whole time. Whatever. There was a crash behind us. I whirled around just in time to see Demi dive through the trees and spiral right into Xaviers chest. They both went down, but Xavier was too stunned to react. Demetri grabbed the collar of Xaviers shirt and held his fist as if he were going to punch him in the face. Compromised. Xavier grimaced and allowed his body to go limp. Demetri let him up, and turned his sights towards me. I held out my hand, wiggling my fingers. Bring it on, pigeon boy. Demi lunged at me from a distance of at least twenty feet away, which was nothing impressive for him because he glided halfway. He barreled into my chest and slammed my back hard on the ground, creating a small crater. As he raised his fist,
though, he froze. I wiggled out from underneath him and sat on his tensed shoulders. I released him and cleared my throat. Compromised, I whispered as I slid my arm around his throat in a chokehold. He
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grabbed my shoulders, then flipped me over his head. Whatever, he muttered, standing back up. Lili and Xavier walked over to join us. Your power is such a cheat, Aiden, Xavier laughed, picking up a small stone and chucking it. Youre pretty much unstoppable when you freeze people up like that. Well, I wouldnt say unstoppable. I can only hold it for so long, I replied, rolling off of my back and jumping up. What do we do now, guys? Lili asked, looking around the sprawling forest. In all of the fighting and confusion, I had totally lost my sense of direction and forgot which way we came from. I have no idea, Demetri scratched his head. I could try getting an aerial view of the land, but I didnt see anything at all when I was up there earlier. Nothing but trees. At that moment, a loud horn wailed off in the distance. I glanced at my phone. Six. On the dot. Thats Dr. Cail with the van, I observed. We can get out of here by following that noise. Its a good thing, too. This forest was starting to get stuffy. Everyone nodded in agreement, and as the sun rose higher and higher, we traveled towards the source of the noise, back to the van, our first fight now under our belts. * * * * * * * * * * * * *
Rebellion The smell of biscuits and gravy wafted through the air as I walked through the screen door and entered the house. I could hear bacon sizzling and Gramma Dunn humming happily as
she worked. I walked into the kitchen, followed by my three friends. The kitchen was steamy, a pot of gravy was cooking on the stovetop, and the table was already set. You kids came jus in time, Gramma said, opening the oven and pulling out a pan of biscuits. Sit yo butts down. Wes about ta have us some breakfast. Did yall have fun dis morning? I pulled out my chair and sat down. Demetri walked ahead of Lili, pulling out her chair for her and waited for her to sit down before he took his seat next to me. I raised an eyebrow at him. He shrugged, and started tearing up his napkins into small chunks. You could say that, Xavier answered as he poured some orange juice into his glass. It was early. And hot. He winked at Lili, who chuckled quietly. Wheres ol Doc Cail? She asked, finishing up her final dishes and coming to join us at the table. He said he had some errands he had to run, but that hed be back in about an hour. She clicked her tongue, then stood back up and retrieved the bacon, laying it out on the table. Shame, she said. Well, dig in everybody. Da soups on. And that is exactly what we did. Ten minutes later, when every last bit of food had been devoured by four growing teenagers and an ever-growing grandmother, I leaned back in my chair, feeling absolutely sick and content. Demetri groaned an appreciative groan, rubbing his belly. Will you be my gramma? He asked her. She laughed. I be all yalls gramma. Jus make sure you visit. An bring me da granbabies when I wants dem. She stood up and begin clearing the table. We all got up to help her, removing condiments and, with the instruction of Xavier and Gramma Dunn, placing them in their respective places. I heard the front door open and close.
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Im back, Dr. Cail called from the living room. That was quick, Lili pointed out. I thought you werent going to be back for another hour. He walked into the kitchen and began helping Gramma with the dishes, but was quickly
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shooed off. He took no offense, and took a seat at the table. Well, things went rather quicker than I had anticipated, he said, choosing his words carefully. I looked at Demi, who shrugged yet again. And not to change the subject, but we need to turn on the news. If what I heard was true, were in for some trouble. Gramma Dunn dried her hands off on a towel, then walked into the living room. Dis better be good! She yelled. You is interruptin ma dishes time. Dats sacred right dere. The boxy television set flipped on with the sound of crackling static. I walked into the room and stood by the couch with my arms folded. Demetri stood next to me, Lili stood by Cail, and Xavier by his grandmother. The news channel was already on, so when the image sharpened as the television set warmed up, it showed a large gathering of people yelling and holding up signs from an helicopters view. They were all gathered around a large stage, and on the stage was a group of men. One single man stood in the middle behind a podium, as if he was giving a speech. On either side of him were two men in dark black suits. The camera zoomed in on his face, and my heart stopped. His cold, dark eyes. His sharp facial features. And his neat, black, tux. It was the man from my dream. I inhaled sharply. His eyes werent without iris and pupil, but other than that, it was the same exact person. This is one of the many speeches that have been given today, a news reporter who was on the scene said. It appears to be some sort of rally, although I have not been allowed any closer than I am standing right now. The crowd was rioting just within sight behind her, but
what was being said at the speech was not audible from the distance. From the previous speeches that have been given today, all the same, there is an uprising about Dr. Richard Lancings Infinite Clause serum, as it has been referred to. Apparently, this is the same medical breakthrough that has given four teens, quote unquote, superpowers. From the buzz that has been going around, it appears as if this has been recreated, and whoever is running these rallies have been distributing it. The purpose of this is unknown, but if these rallies continue, this will spread through all of America in a matter of days. Authorities have not been able to break through the strange barriers that have been placed around the rally. Of all the statements that have been made over social media, though, one word has been used repeatedly. Revolution. Well have more on this story as it develo- The television flickered off. Cail set the remote down, and closed his eyes. That didnt make any sense at all, I said, breaking the silence. Dr. Cail sighed, then sat down in the recliner, leaning over so that he could rest his forearms on his knees. He looked up at me. Essentially, he said, The same people that destroyed the lab got the serum and have been mass-producing their own version of it and distributing it. Theyre travelling all over America, gathering some kind of army or something. An army? Demetri asked. For what? I dont know. Cail shook his head somberly. Now hold on one minute, Gramma said in her mad-black-woman accent. How did you knows dat was gonna be on da TV? Cail looked away, out the opened window. I had heard a couple of guys talking about some kind of revolution. They were talking about how many people had gotten strange abilities within the past forty-eight hours. I have no
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idea how they were able to distribute it, but they did. Its spreading all across America, and more and more people who are unhappy with the government have been plotting some kind of plan to overthrow the American democracy. The room was silent. Cail looked around the room at our expectant faces. Being the oldest super beings, he continued hesitantly, The four of you are the strongest ones out there. Lili, when you first started, you could barely produce a small flame at will. Aiden, you couldnt hold your power for more than a minute. All of you get more powerful by the day, thats just how the serum works. He folded his arms and walked closer to the four of us. If we dont put down this rebellion now, he said quietly, The world as we know it will be destroyed. A mass outbreak of super humans will bring about a new kind of warfare, one that is more destructive and effective than any we have yet to see. The severity of this situation has gone up from severe to so ridiculously severe it isnt even funny. I listened to him intently, taking in everything that he had just informed us. It hadnt slipped my mind about how vague he was on describing his source of intelligence for all of this news. It seemed a bit strange how he seemed to know so much but the news reporter knew so little. I decided not to think about it because he was our only source of knowledge on the outside world, a world that we were now forbidden to enter for fear of our capture. This is bad, Demetri muttered. I suppose, then, that we dont have time to waste by just standing around and talking here. I think he might be right, Lili agreed. We should train. Dr. Cail, do you still need to run those tests on Xavier, Aiden, and I? Cail nodded. That would be fantastic if we could get that out of the way now. It would greatly increase my understanding of all of you, and help me devise a training program that suits each one of you individually. He strode past us and towards the basement door, placing one hand on
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the doorknob then turning his head to us. Well? We dont have time to waste. Lets go. He opened the door and went inside, shutting it behind him. I dont know bout yall, Gramma Dunn said after he had left, But dat story seemed fishy to me. Demetri gazed at her intently, rubbing his chin. Well, he hasnt given us a reason to not trust him, Lili said. And hes done nothing but make us stronger, so I say we go with it and head downstairs for our diagnosis. She strode off after him, and Demetri glanced at me. I shrugged, and followed her down the stairs, Demi and Xavier closely behind. Gramma shut the door behind us, eliminating all light from the basement. * * * * * * * * * * * *
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Afraid of the Dark Thats weird, Xavier murmured. I wonder why Cail didnt turn on the basement light? Dr. Cail? Lili called out into the darkness as we guided ourselves down with the hand rail. No response. Aiden, do you have your cell phone on you? Demetris voice asked from behind. We can use it as a light. I pulled it out of my pocket and tapped the screen. There was no reaction from the phone. I think its dead, I replied. Actually, I knew it was dead. It hadnt been charged in two days. I inched down the stairs, careful as to not run into Lili. I felt the hard, smooth surface of the foundation underneath my feet and reached out into the darkness, searching for Lili. I found the sleeve of her shirt, and grabbed it. She gasped. Relax, Lil. Its me, I said softly. I could hear the breathing of my companions behind me as they cleared the stairs. I heard something clatter, followed by a groan of pain.
Are you guys okay? Lili whispered. Were fine, Xavier replied grumpily. Freaking genius here missed the last step and plowed into me. Its dark! Demi protested. I cant see a thing, so youre lucky thats all that happened to you. Quit being a baby. Both of you, shut up and listen, Lili hissed into the darkness. The room was silent, and the darkness seemed suffocating. From somewhere in the room farther away, someone cleared their throat impatiently, but the noise sounded far away. Now if you four are quite finished, we will begin your next training exercise, Cails voice spoke from the opposite side of the room. I looked around into the abyss, straining my ear. Cail! I said, startled. Where are you? I thought we were going to hook up to that computer-thing? There was silence, followed by light footsteps. Thats the question, Aiden. Where am I? The footsteps halted. Thats for you four to decide. Your mission: find me. With the lack of a sensory skill. I squeezed the cuff of Lilis sleeve. This is no problem at all, Lili said confidently. There was a spark, and a small flame lit up in Lilis outstretched hand, revealing our faces as we huddled together. Lili turned around, only to find herself face to face with Cail. She jumped, and I gasped. I felt Demetri tense up beside me. No no, he said with a smirk. No powers. He blew out the flame, sending us back into the dark chasm of the basement. The claustrophobia was back, and the walls felt like they were
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caving in. You must work together in an undesirable situation to achieve what you want to achieve. His voice was all the way on the opposite side of the room again. Really? Demi growled. Because I want to achieve a nap. Thats fine by me, the disembodied voice said, now in a different corner. You do what you want. Im not your mother, and I wont tell you what to do. But when I have to bring back your lifeless body to your actual mother because you werent prepared, know that its your own fault. Demetri scoffed. You start now. The room was silent once more. My hearing was gradually increasing due to the lack of a sense, and I could now hear the roaring splash of a drop from a leaky faucet. You couldnt have lit that fire when we were going down the stairs? Demi grumbled. Lili shrugged, and the basement became quiet again. We need a plan, Xavier cut through the screaming silence. Yeah, way to state the obvious, Demetri retorted. There was a thud, followed by an ow!. Any suggestions? Lili asked the group. I felt an arm link with mine, and Lili entwined her arm with my other arm. If I had to guess, we were in a circle, linked together. We could do a full room scan like this, Demi suggested, his voice directly to my right. So Lili was on my left, and Demetri was on my right, which left Xavier to be across from me. Nah, that wont work, I said. Hes moving around too much. If I had to guess, he has some form of night-vision eyewear on, and he can see our every move. Would that be a correct assumption, Dr. Cail? There was a pause. Tis true, he answered. I nodded, although nobody could see it.
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Alright. So Im thinking were going to have to split up. I waited, expecting an immediate rejection of my proposal. There was no protest, so I continued. Well cover all of the ground faster, and that way he has less places to escape to. There was more silence as my idea was being considered. Finally, Lili said, That seems like our best option. Okay. Xavier, go south. Demetri, east, Aiden, north, and Ill go west. Maybe I wanted to go west, I teased. Why did you wanna go west? Xavier asked. Well, I am Aiden West, after all. It would only make sense. The room was quiet. No? North it is, then. I turned to face north, and began walking slowly, feeling around with my foot and keeping my arm outstretched. I was sure that I looked like the epitome of ridiculousness, but I didnt even care. There was yet another dull thud behind me. What was that? Demetri whispered from across the room. There was a groan. Apparently, the stairs are located in the southern vicinity of this basement. I tripped over the first step and face-planted into the fifth, Xavier muttered. Maybe you should go around them next time, Lili laughed. I continued walking until I felt the wall with my outstretched hand. I kept one hand on it to guide me, but it didnt prevent me from stumbling over antiques and furniture. I heard more clutter on the opposite sides of the room, and it appeared as if my companions were sharing in my displeasure. This continued for a while as I walked the perimeter with my hand pressed flat against the wall, still yielding no results. I frowned. Guys, I think we need to meet up back in the middle again. This isnt getting us anywhere.
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Agreed, Demi agreed. I made my way back to the center of the room, colliding with someone who smelled flowery and fruity. Sorry, Lili apologized, linking arms with me. Something touched my shoulder, then
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slid down my arm and linked up with it. Alright, is everyone here? I asked. Here. Present. Yup. Good, I said. We need a new plan. The arm to my left broke away from me. Yeah, Demetri said, feeling his way through the darkness and to the stairs. I really have no idea, though, what we could- HOLY CRAP. Lili broke away from me this time. What? Whats wrong Demetri? She demanded, running towards the stairs. I found him. The lights flickered on. On the bottom stair sat Dr. Caleb Cail, with a rather disgruntled Demetri in his lap. How long have you been sitting here? He demanded, jumping up and backing away from him. Dr. Cail lifted his night vision goggles off of his eyes and rested them on his forehead. He sat down the remote that apparently controlled the lights, chuckling. I was on the top step right about the time Xavier collided into the stairs, which, I might add was extremely entertaining. Xavier looked away, his face reddening. After that, I decided that I would remain stationary on the bottom step. That way you would be forced to communicate when none of you yielded results. I hadnt accounted for Demetris inability to stand up for a long period of time. It was Demetris turn to avert his gaze.
No matter, he continued. You successfully completed the task I asked of you, one way or another. Now its time to examine the three of you. Whos first? When nobody answered, I slowly moved my finger to the tip of my nose. Lili noticed, and did the same. Ah, the old nose-goes, Dr. Cail said, walking over to the computer next to the chair-ofdeath-and-all-things-undesirable, as Demi had named it. Well, Xavier, you were the last one to put your finger on your nose, so I guess youre up first. * * * * * * * * * * * * *
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Analysis Thats no fair! Xavier protested. Cant we do rock-paper-scissors or something? Dr. Cail shook his head and grabbed Xaviers arm, wheeling him to the chair. Hop up, he said. Itll be quick and painless because I already know the genre of your ability. Did I explain to you how this machine works? No, Lili replied. I was actually wondering how a computer could tell you what our powers are, just like that. If everyone is different and new DNA is created all the time, how could that possibly account for all of the powers out there? Xavier slowly climbed up onto the chair, and Cail strapped him in. Excellent question, Dr. Cail answered. This machine takes a sample of your blood and analyzes a single strip of DNA from it. It then places you into a group. A group would be an extremely vague, broad range of abilities, such as flight, elemental, strength, speed, and so on and so forth. From there, it categorizes you in smaller subgroups, pinpointing your abilities within the best of its ability. This is a supercomputer, therefore it is always gathering intelligence and always getting smarter.
The original intention of this serum was to speed up the human evolution process, so we had to take into account that over the next twenty years, super humans would reproduce, be it with human or super human, and we guessed that powers would start to repeat, being passed down from generation to generation. Thats why we even bothered to create this, because even though there is an infinite number of genetic combinations, powers are going to repeat, just with minor changes to them. Lili nodded in understanding. It had finally clicked for me as well. It makes sense now, Demetri said, taking in what he had just heard. Demetri, I didnt even know where to start with you, which is why I needed more blood and more time for the computer to process. The rest of you should go fairly quickly and with little or no pain. Xavier sighed with relief. He was pale and preparing for the worst as his shackled hands grasped the arm rests tightly. Now relax. Well start now. A single, small needle went into the side of his arm, sliding back out just as soon as it went in. He inhaled sharply from the sting, but exhaled after the needle had exited his body. Cail turned from Xavier to the computer, which dinged almost immediately. He examined it carefully, reading off the report to us. Alright, Xavier. Youve been placed in the psychic group; no surprise there. A subgroup of mental and kinetic abilities. Cail released the manacles and Xavier hopped out of the chair. I had my finger on my nose, ready for the next go around. I can dig it. Xavier asked as he lifted a lamp with his mind, and slowly brought it over to where he was standing. He froze and began making an awful face, followed be a vicious sneeze. The lamp fell and shattered on the floor, scattering shards of green porcelain all over everywhere.
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WHAT DA HAIL IS YALL DOIN DOWN DERE?! Gramma screeched from upstairs. I ran and grabbed a broom that was resting in a corner, and began sweeping up the mess. Nothing! Xavier called back. Just some sciency stuff! WELL YO SCIENCE BETTER BE SHUTTIN UP, MA SHOWS ON! Yes Gramma Dunn! Sorry! Xavier grabbed a dust pan, and I swept the porcelain into it. He walked over to a corner and dumped it, burying it under photo albums and quilts. Dr. Cail cleared his throat. Lets try to be careful with our powers. You still dont know what youre capable of. This Infinite Clause that youve been exposed to, its going to do magnificent things in your life, and you have yet to do things that you have never even dreamed of doing. But you will. You mean that Ill be able to do more than just read minds and move stuff without touching it? Xavier asked. I havent been able to do anything else, to my knowledge Thats because you havent fully developed yet. There are much greater things to come as you age. Incidentally, Xavier, hows your wound? Xavier thought for a second, then pulled up his shirt. He slid down the wrapping that covered it, revealing the wound. All that was left was a small scar. The rest had sealed up and looked as good as new. Thats what I thought. Normally, it would take someone weeks to recover from the hit you took. It took you two days. I dont know if this is exclusive to you or a side effect of the serum, but you can add super healing to the list of things you can do. He turned towards the computer and tapped the screen. A different, clean needle went into Lili and pulled back out. There was a pause, and the computer beeped.
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Here we go, Cail announced. Group: Elemental. Your subgroup consists of fire manipulation, however in depth that may go. Its an extremely broad category, so the sky is the limit for you, Ms. Montague. Lili swung her legs over the side of the chair and jumped down. Wicked, she said, examining her palms. It was my turn. I stepped up to the chair, my heart rate beginning to increase. I climbed up the metal footrest and sat in the chair. It was uncomfortable, with knots jabbing into my spine and back, and it creaked when I put my full weight down on it. I watched silently as Cail slipped the restraints over my wrists and turned towards the computer. I eyed the new need that was in place of the last one, trying to decide where on my arm it would puncture. Dr. Cail tapped the screen, and the needle slid down into my arm. It stung, but no worse than any other shot I had been given in my life. The needle was ejected, a sample of my blood now safely in its possession. The room was silent. Seconds passed, then minutes. After what seemed like an eternity, the computer beeped. I jumped in my seat, but immediately regretted it as the manacles tugged roughly on my wrists. This is interesting, Dr. Cail squinted at the screen. What is it? I asked nervously as my voice cracked. He stared at the monitor for a few more seconds, then turned to me. Your DNA caused a new group to be added to the system, he said slowly, eyeing me up and down. The group is called Temporal. Temporal means time. Under the subgroups, it listed time manipulation, and time travel. From what Ive seen so far, you can only slow time down and stop it. Have you ever traveled through it? I looked at him in awe. I had never even considered the possibility of time travel until now. No, I answered. At least, not that I know of. He frowned as he unhooked me. I jumped down eagerly, rubbing my back where the chair had stabbed into a pressure point.
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Lets see if we cant fix that. Even at such a young stage in your abilities, you should be able to travel, if not a few seconds. Dr. Cail walked towards me. My three friends gathered around, all watching excitedly. I looked at their expectant faces wondering how I was to go about
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performing such a seemingly impossible task. Aiden, I want you to focus. Think about the future. Try to make yourself go at least a couple seconds into it. I glanced at Cail, who gave me an encouraging smile. I looked back at my friends who were waiting patiently. How on Earth was I supposed to just do it just like that? I swallowed hard and focused. I stared intently at the concrete foundation floor, thinking about seconds, clocks, calendars, anything that had to do with time. I thought about tomorrow, next week, my future, and my childrens future. Nothing happened. Come on, Aiden. You can do it, Demetri said seriously. Try harder, Aiden, Dr. Cail growled. I was surprised by his tone. It was almost demanding. Aiden, just focus. You got this, man. I shut my eyes tightly. Everyone was talking at once, throwing words of encouragement, and Cail was getting more and more irritated. It was too much. I tried harder and harder to focus, but it was impossible. The relentless talk didnt cease, and finally, I snapped. EVERYBODY. SHUT. UP! I screamed. As soon as the words left my mouth, there was a loud crack. A ball of light lit up in the center of my chest, followed by a glowing neon orb that surrounded me. The orb grew larger and larger until it had developed my friends and the entire room. The whole basement was flooded with a blinding white light, and I could feel the energy draining out of me. I collapsed.
Reverse Deja Vu As soon as I hit the floor, the light disappeared. Lili was crouched down, and Demi had
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thrown himself in front of her, shielding her from potential damage. Xavier and Dr. Cail both had their eyes covered by their hands. What just happened? I asked slowly, looking around the room. Nothing had changed at all: the room looked the exact same way it had before. Dr. Cail raised his arm up to pull his sleeve down from his wrist, then looked at his watch. He tapped the face, then said, My watch stopped. I frowned. Demetri stood up, taking Lilis outstretched hand and pulling her up with him. Dr. Cail walked through our circle that we had subconsciously made and jogged up the stairs. I followed after him, no words said. At this point, I was really hoping that I hadnt screwed up big time. I walked out of the basement and into the living room, where I found Gramma Dunn knitting what appeared to be a quilt in her recliner, and Cail tearing through the room in search of the remote. Do you have the time? Demi asked politely as he, Lili and Xavier walked silently into the room. Gramma reached into her shirt and pulled out a pocket watch, which most likely had been concealed in her bra. Three foaty-nine, she replied, tucking it back in her shirt. Cail pulled the remote out from between the couch cushions and aimed it at the television. Yeah, thats what I had too. The screen crackled into life, as a message box came into view. Gathering satellite information. Please be patient, the box read. Dats weird, Gramma said, squinting at the television. It was workin fine two minutes ago. We aint had no storms or power outages or nothin. I is wonderin why its actin screwy
all of a sudden. The status bar in the message slowly filled up, and finally, the screen flipped to a reality TV show where a man was stumbling around, a bottle of wine in his hand. Gramma, what were you watching? Xavier asked, frowning at the display the man was
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putting on. Well huh. I coulda sworn dat was Oprah. Guess da satellite mustve changed da channel. She began focusing a bit too intently on her quilt. Cail pressed the information button. His mouth fell open. What? Lili asked, scanning the information box that was displayed. Everyone, Dr. Cail began slowly. I want you all to look at the date. I glanced in the right-hand corner where the date was and gasped. In small white print against the light blue box, it read August 26th. Exactly two months from what was supposed to be today. * * * * * * * * * * * * *
Time Trap Dat cant be right, Gramma said as she stood up. Marge, do you remember seeing a really bright light? Dr. Cail asked, not taking his eyes off of me. Well now dat you mention it, I do. But I jus thought I was havin one of dem epimaleptic seizures or somethin. Dats why I done turned da TV off. I looked around at the concerned and bewildered expressions in the room. Something was seriously not right. Dr. Cail pulled out his cell phone and dialed a number. Hello? He said into the phone. Information? Yes, would you happen to have the date and time right now? I just woke up from a coma and Im a little confused. There was a pause,
then he laughed. Yes, alright, well thank you. He slid the phone back in his pocket. Its three fifty-one. August 26th. Gramma Dunn gasped. What in da heck is goin on? Gramma Dunn put her hands on her hips, looking at each one of our faces in a scolding manner. If dis is a joke, it aint funny. No joke, I said. You better hold onto your garters, Gramma, because Aiden just sent us two months into the future, Demetri said. The room was silent as the realization of what had happened sunk in. Well I knows you is gonna bring me back, cause I aint wantin to be in no future, Gramma threatened. I cant, I admitted. I dont even know how I got us here in the first place. Gramma Dunn opened her mouth to protest, but was cut short by a pounding on the door. This is the Revolutionary Police, open the door now, or we will force entry! A voice shouted from the front porch. Grammas eyebrows shot up. Oh hail to da no. I knows that skinny white boy didnt jus threaten to break in ta my house, She said with a look of indignance. Did he say revolution? Cail whispered, speaking quickly and quietly. You have until I count down to one! Five! The voice called again. Alright, yall get outta here. Deres a passageway in da basement floor, Xavier knows where it is. Go through dere, itll take you right into da heart of da forest. Go north, and run. Ill handle dese sorry boys. Every single one of us hesitated. Four! Im not leaving you here by yourself, Dr. Cail said defiantly. I is not memberin givin you no choice, She answered.
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Three! Kids, go. Marge and I will handle this. Do what she told you, and everything will be okay. Well get in touch when everything settles down, and Xavier, after you go through the tunnel, collapse the entrance. You wont be followed, Cail breathed, pushing us towards the basement door. Two! Gramma, are you sure youll be okay? Xavier glanced back one last time. Hush, child. I been through three wars an a depression. Aint nothin gonna slow me down. One! We bolted down the steps as quietly as possible, Xavier shutting the door behind us. Shut yo dang mouths. Im comin, Gramma Dunn growled, walking to the front door and unlocking it. What da heck do yall want? She crossed her arms, tapping her foot impatiently. Four men in black suits with dark shades stood on the porch; the only thing separating them was the screen door. Were here to investigate the Dunn household, One of the men said, holding up a badge. Under what grounds? Dr. Cail argued. Harboring fugitive criminals, a different man answered. Gramma scoffed. Well Ima tell you dat you stupid, an I aint got nobody here. Good day. She began to shut the door, but the first man shoved open the screen door with one hand. If you have nothing to hide, then you wont mind us taking a little look, he sneered.
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Dis a free country, Gramma Dunn said, raising her voice. I dont gotta let you do snot without a warrant. The second man smiled sickeningly. Not anymore its not. A man in the back outstretched his arm and flicked his wrist,
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causing a gust of wind to slam the door open hard, knocking Gramma Dunn and Dr. Cail both off of their feet. Alright boys, the first man said as he casually sauntered into the house. I want this whole house searched. Burn it to the ground if you have to, but remember, I want those kids. Dead or alive. My feet pounded against the rocky ground below me as I sprinted as hard as I could. Lili was leading, her arms completely on fire and providing the only light source in the dark tunnel. Xavier had destroyed the entrance by creating a massive rockslide, just like he was instructed to. We had been running for a few minutes and my mind was racing a thousand miles an hour, which is probably the only thing that kept me from exhaustion. Had I really sent us two months into the future? Who were those Revolution Police, as they called themselves? What would happen to Gramma Dunn and Dr. Cail? My heart sank into my stomach as I mulled over the possibilities. Guys, Xavier wheezed from behind. We gotta take a break. This is killing me. We dont have time! Demi yelled back. They could figure it out any minute and come after us! Lili slowed down to a walk, forcing the rest of us to do the same. Xaviers right, guys, she said. That landslide bought us plenty of time, and weve already covered a lot of ground. Theres no use in wearing ourselves out. Lili fell back so that we were walking in a line. The walk was still brisk, but it was enough to slow down Xaviers palpitating heart rate.
How far do you think this tunnel goes? I asked. Lili thought for a moment. Lets just see. She raised a torched arm, then flung a fireball into the darkness. The fire soared through the musty air, lighting up the moist walls of the tunnel as it zoomed by. It got
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smaller and smaller until it hit a wall with a loud thud, then bounced onto the ground, dying out. Looks like about half a mile, Demetri estimated. Shouldnt be too much farther, then. I nodded and kept walking, picking up the pace slightly. The rest of the walk was quiet and without conversation. The only noise came from our breathing, the eerie drip of moisture that fell from the tunnels ceiling, and the crackle of the flames that emanated off of Lilis arms. Once we had reached the end of the tunnel, we stopped, looking around for an exit that seemingly wasnt there. On the wall where the fireball hit, there was a ladder in the form of old wooden boards that had been nailed to the wall, but at the top, there was only the roof of the tunnel. Dont tell me this is a dead end, Xavier groaned, looking up. I looked around, desperately searching for another exit. It was a well-known fact that I got claustrophobic easily, I just never expressed it openly as much, now that I was older. It had just been a fact of life that I had to get used to. Now, though, with the news that we might be trapped, my heart began racing. It felt as if the walls were closing in on me. Guys, we need to get out of here, I panicked. Lili, Xavier, cant you guys just blow the roof off of this place or something? Directly above us has to be the forest. Theres no doubt. They considered this. I could try to move the rocks with my mind, Xavier suggested. I cant promise anything, but I can try. He stared hard at the ceiling, and we all backed away as rubble began falling down onto us. Xavier grunted as he tried harder and harder. Finally, a crack appeared
through the top of the ceiling. Seeing this, Demetri unfolded his wings and shot up, exploding through the weakened dirt. Light poured down on us as the hole now gaped open. One by one, we climbed up the rickety wooden ladder and into the bright green daylight.
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I shielded my eyes as I rose up out of the ground, allowing them to adjust to the change in light. I inhaled deeply, taking in the fresh, clean air. It was a nice change from the stale and musty air that enveloped the tunnel. Although we were down there for less than thirty minutes, it felt like a lifetime. Once we were all out of the tunnel, Xavier meticulously filled in the hole with all the dirt he had removed, so small woodland creatures wouldnt fall into it, he had said. So now what? Demetri asked, looking around at the never-ending forest that surrounded him. Now we go north, I answered. I began walking, then stopped. I have no earthly idea of where north is. Xavier waded through brush and traveled to a mossy tree. See how this moss grows? He said, pointing at the green moss that covered a side of the tree. It grows in the north, no matter what. He pointed to the left. Thats north. We go that way. Are you sure? Lili asked, looking through the trees at the brush. Itll be a long walk through the forest if we get lost. And we have no equipment whatsoever. If we get lost, were in trouble. Relax, he said confidently. I was a boy scout for five years. Remember? Oh yeah, I replied. Didnt you used to sell those amazing cookies? Do you wanna live or not?
He brings up a valid point, Aiden, Lili said following Xavier as he began walking in the direction of the moss. Demetri began walking after them, and I followed Demetri. And so we walked, following the guidance of a slimy green plant. What could possibly go wrong?
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A Numb Illusion of a Whisper I frowned. We had been walking for almost two hours now, and the scenery looked exactly as it had when we started. Trees, trees, and more trees. Maybe a bush every now and then. I swiped some thorns out of my way in an effort to dodge their stabbing appendages. Not that it mattered. My clothes were already tattered and torn, just like Xaviers and Lilis. Demetris wing clothes, however, remained perfectly intact, white as ever. Guys, I think were lost, I said, breaking the monotony of crunching leaves and the angry swats of mosquitos. Nonsense, Xavier retorted in a strange British accent. Were right on track. Tally ho! Demetri glanced back at me. I returned it with a shrug. Would it be safe to assume that you, my dear Xavier, are suffering from sleep exhaustion? I called up to him. He poked the ground with a walking stick he had picked up along the way. Nonsense again, old chap. I feel better than ever! We walked a little farther, when Lili threw her arm out to stop us. Stop, she whispered. Did you guys hear that? I listened intently, but heard nothing. A heavy breeze whipped through the forest, rustling through the trees. I dont hear anyth- At that moment, four people dropped down from the treetop above us, each one landing behind a different person. Faster than I could process, the person behind me
drew a sword with a loud shink! and pressed it hard against my throat. The other three did the same. I swallowed hard. Lili clenched her fists tightly, a look of defiance across her face. Xavier was biting his lower lip, and Demetri remained expressionless.
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As my mind finally caught up with the situation, I noticed several things. The first was that all three of the captors that I could see were exactly identical, which lead me to believe that the one holding the sword against my jugular behind me was identical as well. Two, I was sweating profusely, and my hands were shaking. And three, the identical enemies who held us hostage were all extremely, and I mean extremely, beautiful. She looked to be at least eighteen. Her raven-colored hair was tied back in a ponytail, and she wore a red bandana on her head. She had on just a black undershirt, which was very formfitting and cut off just above her belly button. Her khaki capris were also tighter, but not skin tight. But this wasnt what was so striking about her. The pupils of her iris were a bright, almost fluorescent yellow. They seemed to glow. Alright, Aiden, dont look now, but theres an insanely hot girl behind you, and shes about to kill you, Demetri said solemnly. That confirmed my quadruplet theory. You would do well to shut up. Her voice was strong and full of confidence, yet at the same time, it had a soft chime to it, like bells. Now, why are you here? Who sent you? There was silence. I asked you a question. It was the girl behind me that was speaking, and she was speaking to me. I thought you said I wasnt allowed to talk, I replied, hating myself for my pubescent cracking voice. The beauty of this girl had totally messed with my mind, and I wasnt thinking rationally at all. She pressed the broadside of the blade harder into my neck.
I wont ask you again. I debated this. Should I keep hammering out the nervous wit, knowing that I have full control of the situation? All Id have to do would be to stop time, worm my way out from her grip, and leave. It would be that easy. I sighed. Were not here to cause trouble, I explained, looking over the sword. It looked sharp. Were on the run from these people that were calling themselves the Revolutionary Police. Do you have any idea who we are? Demetri asked her with an air of arrogance. We are the first superheroes to walk on this planet! Now if I were you, I would think very carefully about letting us go, before it gets ugly for you. There was a pause. The girl behind me snickered, then busted out laughing, still holding the sword to me. The other three remained still and expressionless. Superheroes? Ha! I havent heard that one before. She stopped laughing, and leaned closer to my ear. There was a spark of electricity, and the sword illuminated, sparks flying off of it as an electrical current ran through it. I could kill you right now, she whispered. And youd let me. Her breath was warm against my ear, and my mind went blank. I couldnt even remember my name. The blade dimmed down, and the electricity stopped running through it. She removed the sword from my throat and sheathed it in a leather sheath attached to her back. I noticed that there were two, in an X. The other sword was still resting against her shoulder blade. Its alright, Illusion. Theyre like us. The three girls that were holding my friends captive shimmered and became transparent, then disappeared. A boy dropped down from the tree, right next to the girl behind me. I turned around to face them, and my friends stepped up beside me. The names Whisper, she said, not bothering to hold out her hand. She wasnt even speaking to the others. Her eyes were locked on mine. This is Illusion. Aiden, is it? Whats your
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power? She looked at me, expectantly. I glanced at the pale-faced boy next to her, who was taller and looked to be about in his late teens. I can manipulate and travel through time, I said, still looking at the tall boy who called himself Illusion. Whispers eyebrows rose. Thats quite a talent you have there if its true. Mind demonstrating? I looked back at my friends. Demi nodded. Whisper folded her arms across her chest. Alright, I said. Illusion, try to hit me. He thought about it, then reared his arm back to hit me. He launched the punch, but he began slowing down until he reached a stop, inches from my face. His face was blank and unblinking. Whisper looked him over, then chuckled softly. I suppose youve made your point. I stepped aside and released him, watching him follow through into nothing. He started to fall, but caught his balance. The illusionist stood up straight and was silent. You, girl. What can you do? Lili held out her hand, and with a spark it ignited. Whisper turned to Xavier. I can communicate with you via telepathy, he thought. I can also move things with my mind. She nodded. And least but last, the smart-aleck kid. Demetri smirked. The beam of light shot up his chest and his white hoodie ripped apart to the sides, molding into feathered wings of the purest white, and exposing his bare torso. Its Demetri. Whisper didnt even acknowledge him. Now I have one question for you, she said, looking back up into the treetops. And your answer will determine whether you stay or go. Revolutionary? Or Oppressionist? She drew both of her swords, and Illusion crossed his arms. I frowned and looked back at my friends. They all shared a blank look of confusion.
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I dont think any of us know what you mean, I said slowly, preparing for a confrontation. What do you mean, you dont know? Youd have to have lived under a rock for the past two months to not know, she said in disbelief. Something like that, Demi muttered, folding his wings back to their clothing state. Remember when I told you I could time travel? Ive only done that once. And I dont know how I did it. When we woke up this morning, It was June 26th, two days after we got our powers. Illusion looked to Whisper with a look of skepticism. Whisper said nothing, but continued looking up to the treetops. What do you think, Numb? She yelled up into the trees. There was a pause, followed by a crack of the tree limbs. Another boy flew down from the tree, landing in the middle of the two groups of people. He landed in a couched position, his back to us. He stood up slowly. Theyre telling the truth, he said quietly. Illusion shrugged and turned around. His body shimmered into the light, becoming transparent like the three girls before. Then he disappeared. The boy called Numb walked over to Whisper, still facing the opposite direction. He turned around to face us for the first time. Lili gasped softly, and I felt Demi tense up beside me. The boy had on a mask that covered his entire face. It had an elaborate black and white design on it that framed the face. What made the mask peculiar, though, was the fact that it had no eyeholes, and small grates where the mouth was. Where the eyeholes were supposed to be were two ovals. On the right side, a pure black oval, and the right side, a pure white oval. The boy looked no older than fourteen, and his long brown hair was hanging over the forehead of the mask. Xavier looked from the boy to the treetops. How many more people do you have hiding up there? He asked.
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An army, if need be, Whisper replied. Alright. Numb believes you, so I believe you. Youll come back to camp with us, and well fill you in on everything that youve missed over the past two months. Which was a lot. She turned around and began walking, Numb following
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by her side. Are we actually gonna go with them? Demetri asked me under his breath. I looked from my friends to the people who were about to kill us a mere two minutes ago. I sighed. I dont think we have much of a choice. * * * * * * * * * * * * *
Jericho Whisper led us onto a roughed out path that which, if you werent looking for it, could be very easily overlooked. The path was narrow though, so we had to walk single file- Whisper, then Numb, me, Demetri, Lili, and Xavier in the back. You guys really missed a lot, Whisper called back to us. So weve heard, Lili replied shortly. Whisper stepped over a fallen log, motioning for us to watch out for it. First of all, the same serum that was tested out on you four was mass-produced and distributed all over the country by a group of people calling themselves the Revolutionaries. You could only receive this serum, however, if you agreed to fight in their army. This army was supposed to overthrow the government, creating a new and better America, one with superior military power above all other nations. This serum was supposed to cure any and all ailments, and for the most part, it did. Thats what made it so appealing to most people. Combine its healing properties with the
promise of extraordinary powers, and youd be foolish to decline this offer. These people were the good guys, or so everyone thought. After a while, though, a select few of us realized how corrupt this organization actually was. So a group of us got together and escaped. Every now and then, we have a few more come to our camp out here, but most of the time, its just stupid kids who want to start trouble. She stopped at a large clearing, and Numb moved to flank her. We started a camp out here in the middle of nowhere and called ourselves the Oppressionists. We collected a small force of Infinites, and made our base here. We call it Jericho. One day, very, very soon, we will fight the Revolutionary army, and we will win. For the freedom of America. Xavier looked at her curiously as we entered the clearing and stopped alongside Whisper and Numb. You collected a small force of Infinites? What does that mean? He asked her. She gave him a strange look, which turned to realization. Homo infinitus. The next step in human evolution. The name Infinite is a term coined by the leader of the Revolutionists. Its us. Anybody who has received the Infinite Clause and has the abilities that it entitles is called an Infinite, she explained. Next question, Demetri said, looking around at the open space. Where exactly is this Jericho place that youre talking about? She grinned wickedly at him. Its right in front of you, actually. She took a step forward with Numb following suit, and as soon as they did, they vanished. What just happened? Lili asked, looking around in bewilderment. I have absolutely no idea, I answered. Should we follow them?
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I dont think we have much of a choice, Demi said, echoing my previous words. The air was calm here in this clearing. The bright green grass was still, and the forest animals were silent. It was if time didnt flow here. The wind wasnt blowing, and the air was cool. A bizarre
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change from the smoldering June heat that was experienced only yesterday. I inhaled deeply, then took a step forward. Out of my peripherals, I saw my friends do the same. Everything went dark. The forest around me swirled around me, disappearing. I couldnt breathe. Various shades of red, blue, and green flashed all around me in a spinning vortex that appeared to be sucking the oxygen out of the air. The spinning finally slowed down, and I found myself being slammed against a hard surface, gasping for air. I stood up slowly, taking in my new surroundings. We were still in a forest, but the clearing was massive. Tents were set up all over the camp, and people were walking and talking everywhere. It was like a small village, and in the center of the clearing, there was a large fire pit surrounded by logs that were apparently used for sitting. Beside me, my friends were climbing to their feet, breathing hard. Whisper walked up to me. The first times always the hardest, she said without emotion. This is Jericho. She motioned to the sprawling campsite. All of you, come with me, and Ill introduce you to the man in charge of this whole operation. She was no longer accompanied by the masked boy, and her demeanor seemed less cold, but there was still an edge to her voice. She looked us over one last time, then took off towards the largest tent in the clearing. There was a variety of people at this camp, but each looked no different than the average person. None of them had strange physical features like Whispers eyes. But I suppose, like Demetris wings, those kinds of things had to be uncovered. Curious eyes watched us as we
followed Whisper to the tent. People slowly began crowding by us, and murmurs rippled through the crowd. Are they? -saw them on the news! Where have they been? Whisper pushed through the crowd irritably. Beat it, everyone. You all have stuff you need to be doing. Theres nothing to see here, She yelled. The crowd dissipated, but the murmurs kept up. We approached the tent, which was about the size of a small house. It was made up of dark blue canvas, and towered over the rest of the tents. Whisper pushed aside the folds of the massive door and stepped in. We followed after her. Inside of the tent, there were tons of various scientific equipment, all hooked up to a massive generator. There were a few people in lab coats, but Whisper approached one who had his back turned to us, hunched over a clipboard. Is this the reason you had the three of us patrolling the Wisconsin forests? She demanded, pointing at us. The man looked up, then turned around slowly. No way * * * * * * * * * * * * *
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The Crippled Truth Dad?! Xavier exclaimed, running toward the awe-struck Richard Lancing. He dropped his clipboard and embraced his son in a massive hug. His face glistened with sweat and tears. Wait a minute, Whisper said, looking from the reunited father and son to the three of us. Lancing? This kid is your son? And these are his friends? Understanding flashed across her
face. Im going to go now. She turned around and exited the tent, the door flaps flying behind her. What was that all about? Demi asked, walking up to Dr. Lancing. Lili and I shared a
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look, then joined the rest of them. Thats just how she is, Dr. Lancing explained, wiping his eyes. Guys, come here and introduce yourselves to the new members, then youre done for the day. He motioned over the three other people in white coats. Two of them looked very similar, and I guessed that they were related. A boy who looked about my age walked up to me with his hand outstretched, accompanied by his similar looking friend. Hey, Im Wolf, he said with a warm smile. I shook his hand. I can turn into a grey wolf. Like a werewolf, kinda. Only Im still me. He went around and shook everyones hand. I could see the resemblance now, from him to a canine. The edges of his face were sharp and his cheekbones defined. He had a prominent five o clock shadow, and his curly silver hair almost touched his eyes. The girl that looked like him walked up to me. You can call me Lynx. I can shape-shift into a lynx, if you didnt already put that together. Wolf and I are twins. She grinned at me and shook my hand. She too resembled the animal of which she called herself. Her ears were pointed and her eyes were playful slits. She was dainty and cute, but her teeth were like razors. The last of the three, a larger man of African descent with a scar over his right eye, walked up to me and took my outstretched hand with a crushing grip. I bit my tongue to keep myself from crying out. Call me Nomad, he laughed in a deep, testosterone-filled voice. Im the one who set up the teleportation systems that brought you here. Wormholes just so happen to be my specialty. He winked at me.
Alright, now that everyone is acquainted, go outside and tell everyone that their day is over. Theyre free to do what they want. Yes sir, Nomad said, leading the other two out of the tent. Dr. Lancing put an arm
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around his son and guided him towards a large conference table in the middle of the tent. We have a lot of catching up to do, the short man said as we all took seats at the rounded table. First and foremost, where on Earth have you been for the past two months? I tried getting ahold of you; When I visited Marges place, the house was surrounded by this massive white light, and I couldnt get anywhere near it. Dr. Lancing looked from face to face, his relief quite apparent. I can time travel, I explained for the second time today. I dont know how, and it was an accident, but when we were doing our power diagnosis this morning, it told me I could time travel. Cail pushed me to my limit, and I kind of cracked. The next thing I know, were exactly two months into the future, with Revolutionary Police banging on our door. We escaped into the forest, where we were found by Whisper, Numb, and Illusion. Now were here. Dr. Lancing folded his hands and put them up to his face, assessing the situation. What happened to Caleb and Marge? He asked quietly. I looked away. We dont know. I was grateful to Lili for answering. The Revolution people came looking for us, and Xavier sealed up the escape route so we couldnt have been followed. Dr. Lancing was silent for a moment, exhaling slowly. Did you all get diagnosed, then? He finally said. Time manipulation and, apparently travel, I responded. Pyrokinesis. Basically, psychic abilities.
I got wings. Lancing arched his eyebrows. You got wings? He repeated. Demetri nodded, then stood up. He unfolded his hoodie into the wings, outstretching them as far as they would go. Dr. Lancing nodded, impressed. We have a machine here similar to that particular diagnosis machine, but it isnt a super computer and is by no means accurate. It usually only tells us what we already have figured out. What happened back there, Mr. Lancing? Demetri asked softly, sitting back down. You were still in the lab when it blew up, yet here you are. Unscathed. Lancing frowned in memory of the event. I wasnt unscathed. My legs were torn apart in that explosion. The doctors told me Id never be able to walk again. I glanced at him sidewise, then to his legs. You were just walking perfectly fine a few minutes ago, I pointed out. He pulled up the sleeve of his right arm, then put his pointer finger on the center of the table. Slowly, a sheet of ice began forming on the table where his finger rested, crackling as it froze. Oh, I mumbled, staring at the ring of ice that formed on the polished wooden surface. I see. They pulled me out of there just in time, he continued. But I refused to be carted off to an ambulance. In the inside pocket of my lab coat, I had a small sample of the Infinite Clause. I knew what I had to do. Almost immediately, my legs began repairing themselves; the tissue and muscles sealed up, the nerves reconnected. But it wasnt without that side effect. I had hoped to stay out of the Infinite realm, and merely fight for the discovery, and then the cure. But so be it. Unfortunately, that little remaining bit that I used on myself was the last of the original strain of pure, perfected Infinite Clause. The brutes that broke into the lab and stole from me,
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they merely stole a copy of the formula; a blueprint, so to speak. Luckily, I left out a few key steps in the recreation process, steps that only I knew, up here. He pointed to his head. Im sure they had to have tried it a thousand times, with nothing yielding but failure. They must have had
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a genius on their side, though, because they recreated it, to an extent. This second strain was weaker, still with its trademarking healing abilities and genetic mutations, but It was essentially a watered-down version of my perfected solution. Still, with the numbers those people have, and the support theyve managed to rally for their Cause, those Revolutionaries are enough to completely turn the world upside-down. Lancing scowled and looked down at his hands. I want you to realize, he said solemnly, That we, in this small tent, are the most powerful Infinites in the nation. The only ones whove ingested the first strain. He seemed to have drifted off, lost in his own thoughts, but then snapped back to reality. But enough about history for the time being. I lay low for a little while. I called you almost immediately after I escaped the ambulance, still in excruciating pain, but my phone had taken quite a hit from the explosion as well. I traveled to Wisconsin and took up residence at a friends house, that way I could be close to you four, discreetly. I met up with Caleb one morning, and told him of the events that had happened so far. This was the day of your disappearance. After that, I managed to run into a few rogue Revolutionaries, Whisper and Numb, and with their help, I created this haven, Jericho. Its protected by Nomads wormholes, which resemble the walls of the ancient historical city of Jericho. Here, we can plot against them without the fear of being discovered by Revolutionary forces. So thats the errand Cail had to run, I realized. I wonder why he didnt want to tell us that
So where exactly is here? Xavier asked his father. Jericho is located just past the Canadian border. With Nomads teleporting ability, we can travel great distances, so theres no need to be so close to danger. If need be, he could teleport the entire camp to a new location. Dr. Lancing stood up. So now youre filled in. Everyones duties are done for the day, so why dont the four of you go mingle? Make some friends. This will be your family for a while, so its best to get used to them. The thought of Whisper being nothing more than a family member hurt my heart a little. Dr. Lancing strode out the door, whistling merrily and leaving the four of us still seated at the table to ourselves. I exhaled, then allowed my head to fall to the table with a thunk. This sucks, I groaned. Demetri leaned on the back two legs of his chair, and Lili stretched her arms up in the air. Xavier frowned. What do we do now? He asked, staring at the frozen patch of table. Lili stood up, hooked her foot under the elevated leg of Demis chair, and flipped him onto his back. The room erupted in laughter. Even Demi laughed. I hate you, he grinned, his eyes squeezed shut. Now we go make friends, Lili said, walking out the door. Xavier and I stood up, pushed our chairs in, and followed her. Are you guys just gonna leave me here? Demetri called from the floor. Yup. Pretty much. I dont even know why Im friends with you people. * * * * * * * * * * * * *
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Bonfires and New Relations
The forest air was fresh, smelling of pine and cedar. The sun had begun to descend in the sky, creating an auburn horizon. A massive bonfire had been started in the fire pit directly at the center of camp, and people had begun gathering around it, talking, laughing, and paying no
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attention to the four new people who were wandering their way. That was good, I had decided. Best to attract as little attention as possible. Can I have everyones attention, please? A voice boomed by the fire. To my dismay, I saw Nomad smiling and motioning us over to him. Everyone, we have four new recruits with us today, he continued his announcement as we cautiously walked towards him. These arent just any recruits, though. These are the Infiknights! The ones you heard about on the news. They have returned! The crowd of strangers cheered loudly as we finally reached the campfire. I glanced at Demetri, who shrugged. Nomad bore a massive grin. Now I dont want everyone bombarding them with questions, but when you get the opportunity, introduce yourselves. Make them feel welcome. Nomad turned to me as his audience lost interest. He smiled, clapping me on the back with large, scarred hands. What was that all about? I asked him. Why were the y cheering? And whats an Infiknight? The fire cast a golden glow against his face, making the shadows dance across his eyes. You guys are famous around these parts. Nomad walked over to a log-bench and sat down, motioning for us to join him. Youre the Infiknights, the original super-powered beings that are said to be the strongest out there. Every Infinite, good or bad, looked up to you. But then you disappeared. I dunno, he rubbed the whiskers on his face. There for a while we all thought of you as some kind of gods, frowning upon the conflict, therefore removing yourself from it.
Youre still kids, but that doesnt change the fact that the four of you are stronger than anyone here. He pulled off a loose piece of bark from the log bench and threw it in the massive bonfire, causing a small shower of sparks to erupt from the black soot that lined the bottom of the fire.
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We sat in silence for a while; Nomad had pulled out a small pocket knife and had begun whittling on a small limb, leaving the four of us to our thoughts. Gods? Surely he was exaggerating that statement. I mean, we didnt even know what we were doing, let alone be the best at it. I thought back to Dr. Lancing telling us how our powers would get stronger and stronger as time went on, back in the lab, before we became Infinites. If only we knew back then what kind of turmoil it would bring. So because we were the oldest, we were the strongest? Looking around at the wide variety of faces that surrounded the fire, I was sure that there were several people here that could kill us in a heartbeat. Hey, Smith! Nomads rough voice cut through my thoughts as he yelled across the camp to a young man who had just come out of his tent. He smiled and waved at Nomad as he slid off the massive backpack that rested on his shoulders, and began making his way to our group. Nomad turned to Lili. Now, correct me if Im wrong, but youre the flame girl that Lancing has told me so much about, right? Nomad asked. Lili nodded as the young man named Smith made his way through the crowd and joined us on our log, which was now getting rather crowded. He dusted off the open patch of bark right next to Nomad and sat down. Looking at him up close, I could now see his physical features more clearly. He was tall, with a lean muscular build and light brown hair that covered his forehead so much so that he had to brush out of his eyes. He wore a tight-fitting red flannel shirt, with pearl snaps running up and down the middle, and the sleeves were rolled up to his elbow, exposing his tan and defined forearms.
Workin hard? Nomad clapped Smith on the back with a massive grin. Smith scratched the back of his head, laughing. The friendship between these two men was quite apparent. Hardly working, he replied, still smiling. He leaned forward so he could look at us from around Nomad. Make some new friends today? Smith, these kids right here are the Infiknights, Nomad said, winking at me. This was the third time he had called us that, and Ill have to admit, it was growing on me. Smiths eyes grew wide. He stood back up from his seat and walked over to Demetri, holding out his hand. You guys are really the Infiknights? Demi shook his hand, and Smith moved to Xavier, shaking his hand. Its an honor to meet you, it really is. Ive heard so much about you guys! Your Infinitism must be progressing ridiculously fast. He stopped when he reached Lili. Ah, you must be the radiant Lili Montague. He knelt down and took her hand, then kissed the back of it. Enchant, he purred. She blushed and looked away, trying hard to hide a grin, but failing. There was a loud crunch to my left, and I glanced over to find Demi staring off into space. His hand, however, had clenched so tightly into the log that it tore five finger holes in the wood. I was the only one who seemed to notice. Smith stood back up and returned to his spot. The reason I asked you that earlier, Lili, is because Smiths power is the ability to draw metals from the earth and manipulate them. He essentially creates all the weapons and armor out here, Nomad explained. However, his work is missing an extremely vital key, and thats a flame of the right temperature. With just the kindling we have here, he motioned towards the bonfire, We would never be able to produce a hot enough fire. But now that youre here, you can help him make the perfect weapons and equipment. That is, if you want to.
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Totally. That sounds like fun. She didnt hesitate in answering. Demis fingers sunk deeper into the wood. Nomad beamed at Smith, who very eagerly returned it. Its getting dark, so he cant exactly show you what your job will be right now, but I think it would be a good idea for you two to get to know each other, Nomad murmured, stripping off a piece of wood from his limb. Smith jumped back up, yet again. Im fine with that. Lets get to know each other, Smith winked at Lili. She smiled warmly and stood up next to him. Sounds good to me, she nodded. Smith led her around the fire and out of sight from our group. The sun had completely sunk under the horizon now and the only source of light came from the fire, now burning smaller and dimmer, but still fiercely. The moon was full in the sky, and from across the fire, I watched Wolf raise his head and howl a low and mournful howl. His friends around him erupted in laughter, and he grinned as they rough-housed each other. This is surreal, I murmured to myself. Nomad peeked sideways at me, then set his stick and knife down. You get used to it, after a while, he said, stretching his legs out and yawning. Before too long, Doc Lancing will be out here with the daily report. What are we even supposed to do here? Demetri asked impatiently, his high spirits seemingly worn off. Well, Nomad answered. We have a schedule. First, breakfast. then, its training time. Youre split off into a small group with a training instructor, like me. In fact, Ill probably be your instructor. During that time, Ill teach you the basics of how to fight hand-to-hand combat. After that, lunch. Then, you have specialization techniques, where you go off on your own and practice your power. Just like anything else in life, practice makes perfect.
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Then we have campfire, during which Dr. Lancing comes and gives us a daily status report. As he said this, the flap to the giant blue tent opened up and Dr. Lancing came out, clipboard in hand. Speak of the devil, Nomad said, winking. When Dr. Lancing approached,
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the quiet rumble of talking died down, and ceased altogether when he raised one hand into the air. First and foremost, the short man boomed in a surprisingly loud voice, Id like to thank everyone for all their efforts today. Everyone put in a hard and honest days work, and Im proud of you all. Second, we- My attention drifted off as I scanned the crowd for the beautiful but fiercely intense girl named Whisper. Looking across all the faces was yielding no results, and my heart sank. Just as I was about to start paying attention, though, my eyes made contact with a flash of golden yellow. Was she actually staring at me, first? I would never know, because if she was, she looked away so quickly that it made me doubt myself. Sure enough, though, there she was, leaning up against a tall oak tree, arms crossed. Numb was leaning on the same tree right next to her. She was either listening very intently to what Dr. Lancing was saying, or knew that I was staring back and didnt want to acknowledge me. My guess was the latter. The Revolutionaries will be having their mass rally in exactly one week! Lancing said, interrupting my creepy stalker stares. I snapped back into focus. Revolutionary rally? Now, he continued, that means we will be sending a few groups of you to this rally. This wont be a siege mission, however. Their numbers will supposedly top a thousand. No, this is merely an intelligence mission, so well be sending small groups in. Im thinking three groups of four, but thats subject to change. I think that should be it. He nodded curtly, then did an about-face back to his tent.
Oh, and by the way, he added, turning back around. Lights out in thirty minutes. I mean it this time. I dont want a repeat of last nights wild party that went on till the sun rose. He raised an accusing eyebrow at Wolf, causing his friends to burst out laughing again. Whatever, old man, Wolf grinned sheepishly. I saw you dancing out there. Dont act like you didnt love every second of it. This time, the whole camp joined in the laughter. Dr. Lancing laughed and rolled his eyes, then began heading back towards his tent. Nomad stood up and stretched, yawning loudly. Hey, Nomad, I said as I stood up to join him. Where are we gonna sleep tonight? Nomad rubbed his stubbly chin, looking up thoughtfully. Hm, he murmured. Well, this camp is totally segregated, which is stupid if you ask me, so you wont be able to bunk with your lady friend, but well get her straightened out. As for you three guys, I think Numb has a tent to himself right now. Im sure he wouldnt mind sharing. I shuddered at the thought of sleeping in the same place as the masked boy. Is there anywhere else we might be able to stay? Xavier asked him. Apparently he felt the same way. Well theres always a comfy tree nearby. Nomad motioned to the dark forest perimeter of the camp. I think well take our chances with Numb, Demetri said, digging his fingers out of the log and pushing himself off of it. Nomad shrugged. Suit yourself. Tents that way. He pointed at a dark red tent that almost looked like it was made from leather. It was large, but not quite as big as Dr. Lancings. Nomad and the three of us said our goodnights and parted ways, leaving us to the walk through the dark and grassy camp towards the tent. I glanced back at the dimming fire; the crowd of unnatural people had
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begun thinning out. Numb was still hunched over, leaning against his tree, but his counterpart had left him by himself. I pushed aside the flap to the red tent and stepped inside. It was pitch black inside of the
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tent and it smelled like a new car, which was strange. Guys, is there a light switch anywhere near you? Xavier called out into the darkness. I frowned and shook my head, then realized that nobody could see me in the dark. This is a freaking tent, Demetri grumbled. Power isnt running through it, because its canvas. Of course there isnt a light switch. Jeez. What crawled up your butt and died? Xavier said under his breath. Yeah, man. Dont get your panties in a twist. Well figure something ou- As the words came out of my mouth, something sharp hit my kneecap and I collapsed over it with a clatter. Aiden, are you alright? Xaviers voice rang through the darkness. I picked myself up off the ground, feeling around for the cause of my fall. Yeah, Im fine, I answered. I just tripped over something that was just lying around. Man. Youd think the guy would pick his crap up. My hand slid over a cold, hard object. I felt it up, feeling the curves and edges that surrounded it. I think its a lantern, actually. I blindly flipped the object upright and searched it for the knob that raised the wick. I moved my hand up the side of it, until I was stopped by a different hand that brushed mine aside. A small flame lit up in the darkness and lowered itself onto the wick, which caught immediately. The room was illuminated, revealing the source of the assistance I received. What are you doing here? Numb held the smoking match loosely in his hand, looking down at myself who was crouched over the lantern. I had to fight the urge to scream like a little girl. I stood up slowly. His face didnt leave the direction of the lantern.
Nomad told us wed be bunking with you, I said shakily. Um We met in the forest, earlier? Of course he did. He turned around, his long hair shielding me from the creepy eyeless mask. Well, youll be sleeping on the floor. For the first time since the lantern had been ignited, I became aware of my surroundings. Which was nothing. The entire floor, ceiling, and walls were one complete room of red canvas, with no furniture, blankets, clothes, nothing. The only thing that occupied the tent was the burning lantern, and us, of course. Where do you sleep? Xavier asked him. Numb ignored him, walking over to the far wall of the tent and sitting down against it, crossing his legs. I couldnt tell if he was looking at us or not, and this was unnerving. The fire flickered calmly in the glass bowl of the lantern, causing the shadows of the room to frolic and dance about. I glanced back at my companions. Xavier had taken off his shirt and wadded it up, throwing it on the ground to be used as a pillow. Demetri unfolded his wings and laid down, nestling inside the massive feathery wingspan. I sighed. Its just temporary, Xaviers voice cut across my own thoughts. Whats the worst he could do? Kill us in our sleep? I chuckled softly, finding a soft patch of hard tent floor and patting it down. Thats reassuring. Im faster than you, boy. While hes eating your face off, Ill be running straight for Canada. Xavier snorted and rolled over. I stared up at the red ceiling of the tent. I was fairly certain that Numb had fallen asleep, although his body was in the exact same position that it was when he first sat down. His head hadnt fallen, and his back was still straight and arched. I could be wrong. But I decided not to think about it. It had been a ridiculously long day: one that had lasted for two months.
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Crispy Metal The explosion was just destructive enough to wake three slumbering teenage boys. The
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deafening sound of the explosion brought me out of my state of deep sleep and put me into a sense of alertness of my surroundings, although my eyes were still closed and I wasnt fully awake. It was the smell of the smoke, however, that tore my eyelids open and made me jump up with a sickening panic in my chest. The smoke was rolling into the tent from the flap, and almost all of the visibility in the room was gone. I heard Demetri and Xavier shout, but I couldnt make out words because the roar of the smoke had filled my ears. Demi, Xavier! I shouted, collapsing onto the ground and belly-crawling in a small bubble of oxygen that lay under the smoke. Were okay! A muffled reply came from behind me. Just keep heading for the door! I wiggled and wormed my way across the canvassed floors until I reach the flap of redemption. Light was shining through the small crack that parted the flap from the rest of the tent, and I grabbed at it, trying to pull myself towards it. The smoke had filled my lungs and it was becoming impossible to breathe. My eyes stung and watered profusely, but I could find no time to wipe the tears with my singed sleeves. I grasped the opening and pulled myself out into the fresh air. Or at least I thought it was fresh. The entire camp was covered in a massive sheet of smoke that was billowing out from the center of the camp. Behind me, Demetri and Xavier crawled out of the tent, panting and coughing. Whats going on? I asked, pulling my shirt up to my face and breathing through it.
I have no idea, Xavier coughed. But if I had to take a shot in the dark, Id say theres a fire somewhere. Everywhere I looked, I saw nothing but thick, charcoal-colored smoke. Every breath I took through the disgusting shirt burned in the back of my throat. But then my breath
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caught. Wheres Numb? I glanced back at the ominous tent, my heart skipping a beat. Demetris eyes widened. I think hes still in there! My rational thought process stopped right there. Without thinking and despite the protests of my companions, I dove back into the tent. The smoldering heat forced my eyes to squint, leaving barely enough vision to see my hand in front of my face. Numb? Numb, if youre in here, answer me! Another breath. Another flash of searing pain down my throat. I was on my stomach again, but my energy was fading fast. The agony was too much, and I was forced to shut my eyes, causing a surging rip through my iris. The pain was gone as soon as it came though, and my eyes watered with relief. I was getting light-headed, and the burning tent was spinning. My arms gave out from underneath me and I was almost about to give up, but thenThe smoke vanished. All of it instantly disappeared into thin air, revealing an empty tent. I stood up slowly and inhaled the fresh, cool air. The flap to the tent flew open. Did you find him? Xavier asked, stumbling over Demetri to get back in the tent. My mouth hung open slightly as I tried to process everything that just went happened. No I mumbled. What just happened? Demi grabbed my arm and ushered me outside. There was a fire. Long story short, he said as we exited outside for a second time. The camp was smoke-free, as if nothing had even happened. Thunder rumbled off into the distance as
storm clouds began gathering in the cool morning sky, and a streak of lightning etched itself into the corneas of my red and swollen eyes. People all around were sitting outside their tents, some coughing, some just in silence. In the center of the camp where the bonfire was held, Lili and Smith were talking to a laughing Richard Lancing. In Smiths hand, he held a charred, blackened strip of metal. Despite Lancings good humor, both Smith and Lili had somber expressions across their faces. Dad! Xavier called out as we approached them. Dr. Lancing glanced back at us, smiling. Dad, is everything alright? Dr. Lancing took the burnt piece from Smith and turned it over in his hands, examining it. Everythings quite alright, he said cheerfully. Lili took her first crack at welding and heat tempering today. It, uh, didnt quite go as planned, but with a little practice, shell be a top notch welder. Make sure to thank Nomad for his quick thinking in teleporting the smoke away, quickly and efficiently. He handed the metal to me. Now, whos the lucky soul that gets to explain to Whisper why shell only be using one blade for a while? I looked down at the blackened sword in my hand. So this was Whispers second blade I glanced up to find all eyes on me. No. I shoved the sword back to Dr. Lancing, who raised his hands, palms out. Im not telling her. She already hates me as it is. I noticed Xavier looking past me, then I felt a presence behind me. I turned around slowly, hoping it wasnt Whisper. You went back for me. It was a statement, not a question. Now that I was standing face-to-face with the masked teen, I realized he was my exact height. The closeness of our entities also allowed me to examine the detail of his mask more closely. If it wasnt so creepy and eyeless, the solid black and white covering would have been a beautiful piece of art.
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Yeah, I guess I did. My heart raced around this boy for some reason, but his arrogance and elusiveness irritated me. Why? I guess I just didnt want your life on my hands. Thats all. He laughed dryly under his breath. Hey, Aiden. I turned to Demi, who was frowning off into the distance. Much to my dismay, a breathtaking sight of terror was walking my way, a look of fury across her face. She was looking at me. I glanced back at Numb to ask for his help, but he had vanished. What did you do to my blade? She asked sharply, a touch of venom tainting her voice. I dont- He didnt do anything, Whisper, Smith came to my defense. It was an accident. She seized the sword from me and examined it, before tossing it to the ground at my feet. Whisper gave me the nastiest look Ive ever seen, then wordlessly stormed off. Well that was easy enough, I mumbled. Way to take one for the team, Xavier patted me on the back as he and the others walked past me and to the mess hall. Dont worry about it, Dr. Lancing said. Eat some breakfast, then focus on training. Dont let it distract you. Lili glanced back at me apologetically. I half-smiled at her to let her know everything was okay. Picking up the sword, I grimaced. It was still warm from being heated, and it was distorted beyond reason. I sighed. Today was going to be a long day. * * * * * * * * * * * *
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The Art of Meditating
Nomad was the lunchroom hero, although he had to admit to transporting the smoke to his ex-girlfriends house. That made him an even bigger hero to the guys, but the girls sympathized with the ex, who was in for a very abrupt wake-up call. You date her for three
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months and not have any desire to smoke her out, and I will personally apologize to that crazy thing, Nomad had said to his defense. I met some more interesting Infinites though, like the lunch lady who could control vegetation and was making fruit trees grow right inside the tent, or the boy who was manipulating an army of ants to do his bidding. Which consisted of marching in circles. After breakfast, Nomad gathered Lili, Demi, Xavier and myself up for our training. He had us march out into the forest until we reached a small pond. The pond had a waterfall trickling into it, making the water ripple and flow, preventing it from becoming stagnant. There were stepping stones that led out into the center of the massive and beautiful body of water, and there was a massive plateau in the middle. We travelled across the rocks out into the pond, where I noted how clean and clear the water was. Not only was I enlightened on to how deep the pond was, but I could also see every minnow and crawdad that scraped the bottom of the water. Nomad insisted that we sit cross-legged in a circle on the plateau, so of course, we did. So when are you going to teach us these awesome combat moves that you were talking about? Demi asked eagerly. Nomad laughed, a deep ringing sound that bounced off the waterfall. Actually, I had something different in mind for you four, today, he replied. Xavier shifted in his spot on the damp and massive rock. So youre not going to teach us how to fight? Xavier inquired. Nomad shook his head and closed his eyes.
So, Lili said with a puzzled look on her face, If you arent teaching us how to fight, what are we going to do then? We, Nomad said, breathing in deeply, Are going to meditate. Are you serious? I exclaimed. Thats dumb. Shut up, he said, inhaling again. All of you. Close your eyes. Focus on your breathing. Your minds are too cluttered, and a fighter with a cluttered mind is hardly a fighter at all. I havent done this for anyone else in the camp. Youre special. So all of you imagine that youre in a pure white room, and dont let your minds stray, or this will be completely ineffective. Remember, the goal is to clear your mind. I closed my eyes and began breathing deeply. Clear my mind. Images raced through my head, perhaps even faster than before I had started trying to clear my mind. Whisper. Xaviers lifeless body. Gramma Dunn and Cail. Whisper. I exhaled loudly, frustration evident in my breath. Your thoughts will speed up. That means its working. Good. It was working. My mind wasnt any clearer, but at least it was working. Fan-freaking-tastic. I felt Demetri fidgeting beside me. Xavier coughed. So apparently I wasnt the only one struggling. It seemed like hours had passed. The only sound came from the trickling of the waterfall and the boom of the thunder as it rolled in, darkening the skies. A light sprinkle began dripping on us, making it even harder to focus. So when are we going to go back to camp, and more specifically indoors? Lili finally complained. This sucks. And I have achieved absolutely nothing. Nomad opened one eye and glanced at his wristwatch.
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Go in? No, I think not. Now, the four of you will go off on your own and hone your Infinitism. Except you, Demetri. Demi opened his eyes and frowned at Nomad. Theres someone I want you to meet, he continued. I think the two of you will relate well. So Demetri, you come with me. The rest of you head back to camp. He stood up and stretched before he strode off the rocks and onto the stepping stones, Demi practically running to keep up with the burly man. This left Xavier, Lili and myself sitting on the rock by ourselves. Its actually kinda perfect out here, Xavier said as a warm breeze drifted through the rain, which began to turn into a drizzle. Lili wiped the damp lock of hair from her eyes and laughed, looking up at the sky and blinking furiously. Youre crazy. I think were all a little crazy, I added. We sat in the pouring rain quietly for a moment, simply listening to the rain patter against the water. I slowly made my way to my feet. I guess we should probably head back to camp now, I said. Lili nodded. Yup. I guess youre right. So we marched back through the forest in the pouring rain with the cluttered minds that we had started out with. I figured that Id have to work on that. * * * * * * * * * * * *
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The Irish Ace So whos this dude youre having me meet? Demetri called through the rain as he followed Nomads massive footsteps. Shes an old friend of mine. Got herself in the same boat that youre in. Speaking of boats, we may need one before too long. He glanced up nervously at the sky, shielding his eyes with his hand. What was I saying? Oh yes, the only difference is, she knows what shes doing,
and you dont. Youll really benefit a lot from talking with her. They stepped out into the clearing and waded through the soggy camp. There she is. He pointed at a figure that was too hard to make out from the short
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distance they were at, but the rain drastically reduced the visibility in the air. I dont see anyone. Shes coming this way. Lets go. Nomad grabbed Demetri by the shirt and towed him towards the figure. Hey, easy man. Youre yanking a part of my body, remember. The figure came into view as we approached her. Her brown hair that was tied back in a bun was dripping from the torrent. She had a lean build, and was a few inches shorter than Demi. The girl who appeared to be a few years older than us looked from Nomad to Demetri, then back to Nomad. Is this the lad you were tellin me of? Her Irish accent was tainted with American influences, leading Demi to believe that she was a natural born Irish, but had lived in America for a long time. It is for a fact, Nomad answered with a wet grin. Demetri, meet Wren. Wren, Demetri. Demi held out his hand, looking the girl over carefully. Alright, he thought. This girl is smoking hot, and she has an accent. This might be just what I need to help me forget about Wren heres a flier, just like you, kid. Nomads words cut through Demis thoughts. She has quite a bit of knowledge when it comes to the skies; you could really learn a lot from her. She took his hand and shook it firmly, smiling at him. Aye. Both of the parents were well-trained pilots. Been flyin since age seven. I know the ways of the sky like a roadmap tattooed on the back of my hand. You know, in some ways, were the a lot alike. She wiped the rain off of her face with her sleeve. See? She took off her
oversized sweater, revealing a dark red, lacy tank-top. She smiled daringly at Demi. As she did, two large, diamond-shaped wings rose out from her back, and two smaller ones unfolded underneath those, hanging down. They were brightly colored with shades of neon blues, greens
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and reds, and resembled massive butterfly wings. Thats awesome, Demetri admired. The combination of the beautiful wings and the equally beautiful girl that bore them made his heart race. Those are very impressive, he continued, his words shaky. The rain disguised it well, though. Demetri gave a grin of his own and unfolded his own wings, exposing his muscular torso. His wings were heavier, though, he noted. They must be soaking up all of this rain. Thats why she wasnt sure if wed be able to fly in the rain. Shes smart Or maybe that was supposed to be common sense. Crap. She was smiling at him and blushing. Demetri folded his wings back into the thick hoodie that they were initially in. I have questions for ya, lad, she said, And Im sure you have questions for me too. Would you like to go to the mess hall and talk? That would be fantastic. Aye, fantastic. Nomad nudged Demis arm gently, then walked off, beaming. Over in the distance, Demetri saw Xavier walk out of the forest path and into the camp, smirking at him, even through the rain. He rolled his eyes. How much of that did you eavesdrop on? Demetri thought, raising an eyebrow at Xavier as he and Wren headed towards the tent. Eavesdrop is a harsh word. I prefer the term selective hearing. Dont you have something better to read then my mind? Like a book?
Nah, there arent any books that could entertain me the way you can. Shes cute. Xavier glanced at Wren, then back to Demi. I know! Isnt it awesome? Im walking her to our private lessons right now. Well, if the whole private lessons thing doesnt work out, make sure you refer a friend. Ill be sure to do that. Demetri watched Xavier walk off chuckling, and he laughed out loud. Whats so funny? Wren asked. Oh, nothing. Just a friend being dumb. * * * * * * * * * * * *
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The Tactical Approach I sat on a rock. I know it sounds lame, but I didnt know what else to do. I barely even noticed the rain beating down on me, although it hurt a little when the rain gods decided to turn up the water pressure and turn down the water temperature. Oh well. I guess my skin will grow back, despite being torn off by the intensity of the water. After wandering around the camp aimlessly for twenty minutes and watching other people practice their powers, I finally decided to just go off alone. I had been tossing a small pebble up in the air and stopping the small bubble of time around it so that it remained suspended in the air, although I didnt see how this was bettering myself any. It was peaceful though, and once you got past the monsoon, it was rather relaxing. I folded my dangling legs on the rock and closed my eyes. No better time to practice that meditation crap then right now, I guessed. I breathed deeply, counting the number of inhales and exhales. It was easier to concentrate, or not to concentrate, in a sense. There were no distractions, no fidgeting friends, no angry swordwielding electrical females. Just me.
Soon, the world around me disappeared. I was alone, in a completely white room. The rain was gone, and it was completely quiet. A black dot appeared on the wall opposite from me. Something in my mind told me that this was it, the concentration and mind-clearing that I
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needed. I took a step towards it. Then another. Then seven, eight, nine, and finally, I was one step away from the black dot. I reached out slowly and touched it, peeling it off the wall. I knew that what I held in my hand was the inner peace that I needed. I shoved in my pocket. Now how to get out of this strange fictional creation of my mind Hey, Aiden. Weve been looking all over for you. Its dinner time. I opened my eyes to see a frantic Xavier standing in front of me, panting. To my surprise, the sun had set. Have you been running? I asked him, hopping off of the rock. Yeah! I told you, me, Lili, and Demetri have been looking for you. We couldnt find you, and started to panic. What time is it? Its seven. AKA dinner time! Lets go! So we took off towards the mess hall. I couldnt help but feel a sense of happiness, of inspiration. It was like something inside me had been unlocked, but I was still extremely surprised that over four hours had passed. Surely I hadnt meditated that long When we arrived at the massive tent, everyone else was already inside. The line was small, so we didnt have to wait for our food. Demetri and Lili were already inside waiting on us. Where were you? Lili asked worriedly. I took the tray of food from the smiling Infinite woman who was growing the food and thanked her. I was meditating. Demetri snorted.
Right. You were meditating. Im sure that was what went down. No, what actually happened, is that you were making out with that electric chick. Thats what happened. Shut up, Demetri, I defended. Theres nothing going on between me and Whisper. Youre full of crap, Xavier chimed. Ive read your mind. Pervert. My friends laughed at me while I blushed. Luckily, I was saved by Nomad, who was motioning for us to go sit with him. We walked over to his table and filled the four remaining vacant spots, which I hoped didnt belong to anyone else. The table consisted of Nomad, Wolf, Lynx, Wren, and Illusion, all familiar faces, except Illusion. The silent, pale-faced boy was almost as withdrawn as Numb. Hey guys! Wolf greeted us cheerfully. So, as I was saying, once the rally is over, Im gonna sneak backstage, find Cadence, and then bite his face off, along with the rest of those Revolutionary losers. Although Im all for the violent approach, Nomad said, his mouth full of food, Were gonna have to be somewhat tactical about this approach. Nomads right, Lynx agreed. And not just because I think youre stupid and dumb to begin with. Which I do. But think about it. Theres going to be a thousand of them, and twelve of us. We wouldnt stand a chance. Wolf frowned and bit a chunk out of his apple. What do you think, Illusion? He asked, nudging Illusion. The pale-faced boy scowled at Wolf. I dont see how my opinion matters. Its not like Im actually going to attend this rally. The silence that followed was filled with the crunching of food as people chewed awkwardly. So Demetri offered, What makes these Revolutionaries so bad, anyways? I mean, not that I support them or anything, but our economy does suck. Maybe they might be on to
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something. And wasnt it Thomas Jefferson who said that America would need a revolution every hundred years or so? Nah, thats just what they want ya to think, Wren replied, her Irish dialect shining through. Those of us that actually worked under his command know the truth: the reason why we abandoned him. She took a swig from her water bottle. Once Cadence has America, hes not gonna stop there. He plans on going around the world and conquering the other nations. World domination, if you will. The only man ever to get remotely close to world domination was Alexander the Great. He was successful because of his brilliant amount of intelligence and massive army. Well, Cadence has the intelligence, and now he has the army. So thats where the Oppressionists come in. Its our job to prevent that from happening. How can you expect this camp of about a hundred Infinites to defeat their army, though? I asked. That doesnt seem very likely to me. Illusion stood up, threw away his paper tray, then strode outside. Lynx rolled her eyes. We have some secret weapons now, Nomad answered. You four, the Infiknights. The strongest Infinites out there. I glanced down at my practically untouched tray. I suddenly wasnt hungry anymore. That was a lot of pressure to put on four kids. You need to eat, Xavier murmured to me, reading my mind. You need all the strength you can get. I nodded and shoved a grape in my mouth. Excuse me! May I have everyones attention, please? Dr. Lancings voice boomed through the huge tent. I searched the room for him, and finally found him standing on one of the folding tables. All eyes were on him. Excellent! He said happily. Now, as most of you
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probably know, water and fire dont mix well, so well have the bonfire, he made air quotes with his fingers, In here. Not really, though. Just the meeting. Today was a slow news day; not much happened. However, Im very glad to see everyone training, even though conditions are less than desirable. Out of the corner of my eye, I saw a person get up and leave. A spark trailed behind her as she silently escaped the flaps of the tent. Whisper. I glanced back at my friends, none of which seemed to notice. Therefore, Lancing continued his speech. I must have missed part of it. We only have six days. I want everyone to be ready for any kind of event that may occur. And now, the moment that many of you have been waiting for. As you know, only a small number of people can be sent to this rally, that way we can stay under the radar as much as possible. I have here the names of those twelve people. He pulled out a folded up piece of paper from the front pocket of his lab coat. Remember, this is nothing personal. These are just the people that I think would best be able to handle this situation. I have no doubt in my mind that all of you could, though. He cleared his throat and unfolded the paper. The first group of four will consist of: Nomad, Wren, Wolf, and Lynx. My table erupted in cheers from everyone. I beamed as they hugged each other. Apparently this event was much bigger than I thought it was. Once the cheering had died down, Dr. Lancing read the next names. Group two. Whisper, Numb, Illusion, and Smith. The room was silent until Smith jumped up and cheered by himself. The room shook with laughter and began cheering. I saw Smith wink at Lili, and she blushed. Demetri exhaled deeply through his nose beside me. I love the enthusiasm, Dr. Lancing continued. And last, but definitely not least, the last group is Aiden, Demetri, Lili, and Xavier. Again, my table jumped up and cheered.
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Alright, everyone. Thats it from me. You all can celebrate for a little while longer, but then I want you all to get some sleep. Another day of training tomorrow! He stepped down from the table, and walked briskly out of the tent, utilizing his famous Richard Lancing strides. I had to
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admit, I was extremely excited that I was chosen to go on the mission. It felt like some sort of honor. Along with the honor of being an Infiknight. * * * * * * * * * * * *
Kisses in the Rain Our table stayed the longest out of everyone. We talked and laughed for a few more hours before everyone began getting tired. Nomad announced he was going to bed, and several others followed him. Actually, I said to Demi and Xavier, I think Im going to hang out a bit longer. Dont wait up on me, Ill probably be awhile. Xavier shrugged. Whatever you say, man. Once they had left the tent and I was sure that they were long gone, I sprinted out of the tent and took off towards the forest. The rain was still coming down hard as ever, and combined with the dark, it was almost impossible to see where I was going. My only source of light was the massive lightning storm that seemed to be centered right in the heart of the forest. If my hunch was correct, that was where Whisper had went. Of course, I could just be running into a lightning storm like an idiot for nothing. I tripped over branches and logs as I stumbled blindly through the forest. I felt as if I was about to smash into a tree at any moment, and at the speed I was traveling, that would hurt a lot. As I stomped through the deep puddles and wiped the dirty rain off of my face and out of my eyes, I became aware of just how much it had been raining.
I slowed to a walk as I reached a clearing in the forest. Sure enough, Whisper was standing in the center of the clearing with her back to me. Lightning was striking the ground all around her, and occasionally, the wicked bolts of electricity would hit her. She didnt so much as
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flinch. Now I dont know what compelled me to do this, but I began walking out into the open, approaching Whisper. Lightning crashed within feet of me, and if it werent for the deafening thunder, she for sure wouldve heard my heart pounding in my chest. Beautiful day for a stroll in the forest, isnt it? She whirled around. I had obviously scared her, because she was breathing hard. You idiot, she yelled through the rain. You shouldnt be here right now. Youre going to get electrocuted. So be it, then. I strode forward, my fears dissipating in those magnificent yellow eyes of hers. I wanted to talk to you. We were silent, and the only noise came from the pattering drone of the rain. Lightning flowed all around us, but it wasnt hitting Whisper anymore. Or me, thank God. I wanted to apologize for your- Look, Im sorry I snapped at- We spoke at the same time. I felt my face turning red in the dark. Whenever the lightning fell, our faces were illuminated for mere seconds. You go, I offered. No, you Alright, Ill go. I inhaled deeply, then exhaled through my nose. I was still having a hard time getting over how gorgeous she looked with her soaking wet hair that was sticking to
her forehead. Im sorry about your sword. I didnt burn it, I was just told to bear the bad news to you. I felt really bad about it, and I dont want you to hate me. Her eyes widened in understanding. Oh, she said. Well, I wanted to apologize for snapping at you earlier. Clearly, I was wrong. I gave her a half-smile. I probably wouldve done the same thing if I were you. That sword probably means a lot to you. Eh. Its just a piece of metal. The silence came back. I was staring into her eyes, and she was staring back. It seemed like we were drifting closer, but I couldve been imagining things. What if I was imagining this whole thing? What if I was still back on that rock, meditating? Ah well. Better enjoy it while it lasts. A bolt of lightning raced down beside us, sending a chill up my spine. Whisper leaned forward, then hesitated, searching my face. In her moment of hesitation, I gently placed my hand under her chin and tilted her head up. If you dont want me to Feel free to stop me, I whispered. She opened her mouth slightly, but no words came out. Then I kissed her. As soon as my lips met hers, the lightning intensified. It was coming down faster, harder, and closer, but I didnt care. I inhaled the smell of vanilla that radiated off of her hair, despite being so wet. The blood boiled in my lips, and I closed my eyes, wishing that the world wasnt in the midst of chaos, that they didnt need us, and that we could stay here forever. I pulled her closer, and she wrapped her arms around me, accepting the kiss. My heart stopped. I could feel the surge of power coming through me, and I knew there was nothing I could do to prevent it. I didnt know what would happen, I just knew that I
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couldnt afford to time travel again. Suddenly, everything went bright. All was silent. I opened my eyes, and Whisper did the same. What happened? She asked softly, not daring to look away. I have no idea. Whisper suddenly looked up. Just inches above our heads, four massive bolts of electricity from various directions were suspended in midair, located in the perfect position to strike us. I looked around, my breathing getting heavier. The rain was also frozen; it just dangled in the air, the lightning reflecting off of it, making it look like a display of shimmering diamonds surrounding us. Whisper ran her fingers through the droplets, causing them to flow through her fingers and float around. Are you doing this? She smiled as she made shapes with the rain. I think so, I answered, looking at the beautiful spectacle that surrounded us. I have no idea how long I can hold this, though, so if you value my life, youll move with me away from the scary lightning. Whisper laughed and took my hands, leading me to the side of the electricity. It appears as if we have a bit more time to talk now, she said, gazing around in awe. I grinned. We have all the time in the world. * * * * * * * * * * * *
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A Numbing Revelation So why are you out here? I swiped my hand over the wet grass, causing the water drops to float off into space and create a dry patch in the grass. I sat down and patted the ground beside me, and she sat next to me. Our arms were close enough to touch.
Its a lightning storm. Lightning and any other forms of electricity have just been drawn to me ever since I got my powers. Whenever a different electric current touches me, I get so much energy from it. It feels good. Its kinda hard to explain. Why are you out here? I thought
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carefully about my answer. The honest answer is usually the best way to go, I decided. I was just taking a stroll through the rain. I happened to run into you, though, so that was really lucky. However, I had not mastered the whole honesty thing. Whisper smiled. Im sure. Its really a fantastic evening for a walk. I wouldve brought an umbrella if I was thinking about it. Whisper cocked her head and looked off into the distance thoughtfully. Umbrellas are funny things, you know? She said quietly. No, I answered. I dont know. But please, feel free to enlighten me. She looked straight at me and laughed. I like to picture rain as life, metaphorically speaking. How can you live life to the fullest if you hide from one of its simplest beauties, rain? I pity those that shield themselves from the few joys of life. That was deep. She grinned, displaying her white teeth, then we both busted up laughing. And that is why I dont use an umbrella. We were silent, just gazing into each others eyes. It wasnt awkward or uncomfortable. The enchanting scenery around us seemingly faded away, and all that mattered was her and I. So, I said, breaking the silence. Whats the deal with Numb? Is something wrong with him? She looked away, and was quiet. Her face appeared conflicted, as if deciding whether or not she trusted me with such information as that. She sighed.
The truth is, Numb has been Infinite longer than any of us. Even you four, the Infiknights. Numb was born with a sort of sixth sense, being able to feel the world around him. It was that very reason that made him an outcast, even from his parents. Especially from his
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parents. They beat him, Aiden. So much so that he lost all of his sight, hearing, and his sense of knowing. Hes lived in a world of total darkness for as long as he can remember. My mouth fell open at this. Thoughts raced through my mind as I tried to wrap my mind around what she had just told me. Wait, I mumbled, still confused. If hes completely oblivious to the world around him, how is he so able? He can walk and talk, just like anyone else. I dont even think Helen Keller could do that. You know how the Infinite Clause heals people? Like Dr. Lancings legs? She explained. Well, thats why we went to Cadence. Thats why almost everyone went to Cadence. For medical help. I met Numb when he was twelve. It was shocking to see a kid lose hearing from all the smashes to the ears, and lose sight to the endless hours in the dark. Infection had set in, but in spite of all that, I didnt see him as different. He was a brother to me. His parents didnt want him anymore, so he was dumped on the streets. Before he left, though, his biological sister, the only other person in the world he had ever trusted, gave him that mask. It was some sort of family heirloom, and extremely valuable. His sister gave him the mask, then entrusted him to me. I think perhaps he thought I was she. But can you blame him? The world was out to get him. I empathized with Numb. After my older brother died when I was five, I was left alone to fend for myself, so I already knew the ropes. I took care of him. She glanced around at the shimmering drops, still floating elegantly, still reflecting the lightnings rays.
Years passed, and one day, a well-dressed man in a suit came up to the two of us. He offered us a chance at a second life; an opportunity to be healed of any sickness that we had. We took it without so much as a seconds hesitation to think about it. I was astounded with what happened next. It was surreal. I mean, I could shoot lightning from my fingertips! She giggled, reminiscing on her first experiences as an Infinite. Numb finally saw the world for the first time in what seemed like ages. He was a little surprised when he found out it was me, and not his sister that had been taking care of him, but he put it past him. I hate to admit it, but Numb and I were one of the first Revolutionary soldiers. We soon found out how corrupt Cadence truly was, though. When we tried to warn the other soldiers, we were threatened with our lives. Luckily, the two of managed to escape before anything happened. Then we found Lancing. He gave us a place to stay, and promised to stop Cadence at any and all costs. What other choice did we have? We had to go with him. She looked down at the dry grass amongst the wet, ashamed. Wow. I was at a loss for words. She nodded slowly as I pulled together my thoughts, just enough to develop rational sentences. No person should ever have to go through what you two have been through. She smiled weakly. Thats just how life goes. So he wears the mask to hide his face because of the infection? Then if he can see now, why doesnt it have eyeholes? I never said he could see, she answered, picking up a stone and chucking it, watching as it slowly halted to a stop in midair. When Numb drank the serum, his physical eyes werent reopened. His inner eye was. That sixth sense that I was talking about. That eye wasnt like before, though. Although the Infinite Clause didnt heal his sight, or his hearing, it enhanced his
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sensing ability to unthinkable heights. He can see the aura of everything, living or nonliving, within a five mile radius, and that radius gets bigger every day. Its ridiculous, the things he sees. If he looked, he could see you and I perfectly, just based off of our auras. Its complicated, but his senses are even more heightened. He still cant hear, but he can sense the movement of lips, even when he isnt facing you. Have you ever seen whats under the mask? There was hesitation before her answer that followed. No. I looked up at the glistening sky, just thinking. If this was true, this boy called Numb was one insanely strong kid. The drops of water slowly began moving again, and at snails pace, the lightning reached out and kissed the ground, darting back up as soon as it came. Gradually, the rain came down faster and harder until it was at the rate it was at initially. I wiped my eyes. Are you sure about the whole anti-umbrella thing? I asked her, grinning. She laughed and nodded. Positive. * * * * * * * * * * * *
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Girl Troubles and Secret Missions The rest of the week dragged on slowly, falling into a steady routine of training. I found myself back on that same rock trying to recreate the events that had happened on that eventful night with Whisper, but I never could do it. It frustrated me to know that I had the capability of such a massive power, but could only tap into a small portion of it. Demi was often missing, but my guess was that he had been hanging out with the expilot, Wren, in order to get back at Lili for spending so much time with Smith. Poor Xavier could
only admire Wren from afar, because every time he vied for her attention, she completely blew him off. I felt bad for him, because he was trying hard. All of the drama that had been taking place in Jericho alone was hard to follow, let alone the ever-present Revolutionaries, looming
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and plotting in the distance. The day before the rally slowly crept up on us, and finally, it arrived. I stepped out of the tent and into the fresh morning air, breathing in the crisp scent of the trees that bore the first signs of autumn. Luckily, there had been no accidental fires since the last time, so that was a plus. Hey, Aiden, Xavier crawled out of the tent behind me and stood beside me. It was still early, and we were the first ones outside. The sun had begun peeking over the horizon, casting a golden glow over Jericho. Oh, I didnt mean to wake you. Im sorry, I apologized. No, you didnt. I just I wanted to get your opinion on something. I began walking slowly to the fire pit, where last nights embers still shined faintly. Xavier followed me closely. Oh, I replied, sitting down on the log bench. Thats cool. Whats on your mind? Well you see He began slowly, choosing his words carefully. Im having girl troubles. I looked at him, not bothering to hide my surprise. You realize that its me youre talking to, right? Not Demetri, who would be the expert on the matter. Well thats the problem, Xavier explained. I think I like Wren. Like, a lot. Oh. That is a problem.
What do I do? I thought this over. There was really no way I could win this without taking choosing sides between my two best friends. Well I guess I dont really know. I mean, Wrens just Demetris rebound. Hes jealous because shes been spending so much time with that metal Infinite. Theres really no feelings on his part, so I think if you just stay persistent and dont give up, youre golden. He sighed, then looked me straight in the eye. Do you really think so? He asked me. I know so. Youre a great guy, and any girl would be lucky to have you. Xavier gave me a toothy grin then stretched his arms. Youre a great friend, you know that? Thank you. I needed to hear that. I smiled and nodded. I genuinely hoped that things worked out between him and Wren, because he deserved a girl like her. People had begun coming out of their tents and were making their way to the fire pit for the early morning meeting that Dr. Lancing had called the night before. Apparently, the final preparations were being made for the mission tomorrow, and the plans were going to be revealed. Shortly after everyone had arrived at the place of meeting, Dr. Lancing strode out of his tent and into the center of the group of dysfunctional Oppressionist soldiers. He cleared his throat, and all eyes were on him. Alright, now that I have everyones attention, good morning! The crowd roared back their wishes for a good morning, perhaps over-enthusiastically. Everyone was anxious to see how the infiltration was theoretically going to play out. You all have worked extremely hard
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this past week. At this rate, our army will be able to take out any army, Infinite or non-Infinite, just like that, with ease. The crowd shouted yet again, cries of enthusiasm. Im sure you all have been wondering how tomorrow is going to play out, so Im happy to inform you that I have those plans right here. He tapped his temple with his pointer finger. So. Heres whats up: The rally starts tomorrow at 9 a.m. This means that well have plenty of time to prepare and travel, which is what we want. I dont want to be rushed. The rally is going to be held approximately one hundred and fifty miles away from this exact point in Jericho, in the Grande Expo Center. Lots of travel time, so make sure everyone brings plenty of bottles to urinate in. Demetri leaned into me, making his and Lilis presence beside me known to me for the first time. Hes not being serious, is he? He whispered. I shrugged. Probably. Once we arrive, well be sending in the three groups in twenty minute intervals, to avoid suspicion, Dr. Lancing continued. Nomads group will go in first, Whispers next, then Aidens. Once inside the auditorium, you all need to spread out. This room will be massive, so fan out as much as possible, but stay fairly close to your own individual groups. Pay close attention to what is said, and avoid conversing with Revolutionary Infinites at all costs. Remember, this is an intelligence mission, not a siege attack. He glanced at his watch. That should just about cover it on my part. Id like to see all the members of the mission in my tent, if you dont mind. Everyone else is dismissed. He left for his tent, followed by Nomad, Wolf, and Lynx. What do you think he wants to talk to us about? Lili asked as we headed towards the massive blue canvassed house.
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If I had to guess, I muttered, Hes probably going to go more into detail about the mission with us. I think he may be right, Xavier agreed. We entered the tent and joined the other eight
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Infinites, who were chattering and laughing loudly. All except Whisper, Numb, and Illusion, who were silent, simply watching everyone else enjoy themselves. I flashed Whisper a smile as I walked in. She glanced at me and looked away again, expressionless. Well, at least she acknowledged my presence. She probably just didnt want to be embarrassed in front of her friends. I chose you all, Lancing said over the quiet roar, Because youre special. The talking died down, and Dr. Lancing lowered his voice with the volume of the crowd. All of you possess the qualities of a good leader. I believe you have the potential to survive and thrive in any kind of situation, just by adapting. These attributes are hard to come by in times like these, but I feel like I can trust you twelve. Now when you get in the auditorium, its imperative that you stay calm. Keep your cool, and act like youre one of them. We dont know what their powers could hold. After all, the possibilities are infinite. I should know. Unfortunately, I wont be going with you tomorrow. I have to take care of things here, and my face is too widely recognized, what with being publicized all the time. Nomad, since youre the oldest and most experienced, youll be driving, and essentially leading this mission. Nomad suddenly stood upright. Yes, sir. If everything goes as planned, youll be in and out, with no trouble whatsoever. Ill be honest, Im not counting on this, but Im hoping for it. I have a feeling there will be a few minor hiccups here and there, but nothing you cant handle. Are there any questions? He looked
around the room, but it remained silent as the eyes of the twelve chosen Infinites watched him intently. Good. Im going to give you today off. You need to rest before tomorrow. All of you are dismissed except for Aiden, Lili, Demetri, and Xavier. Id like to see you four before you go. I glanced back at my friends, who shared in my confusion. People couldnt get out of that tent fast enough, because most of them were planning for their day off. After the weeks worth of work alone, I honestly couldnt blame them. You four, Dr. Lancing said as the room final emptied. I want you to be extremely careful tomorrow. Why? Demetri asked. Because your names were even more publicized than mine. You were made out to be celebrities, and I doubt theres a single Infinite out there that doesnt know your name. For a while, I debated on whether or not I was even going to let you go, due to the dangers of this mission. I decided that the other eight needed you, though. In the event that something bad happened, your advanced strength and powers would be a necessity. How are we supposed to stay hidden, then? Lili shoved her hands in the pockets of her baggy gray sweatpants and leaned up against a lab table. It seems like the odds of us being discovered are pretty darn high, if what you say is true. The only thing I can tell you is to keep your heads down. You can do it. Demetri and I shared a look. He felt just as uncomfortable about this situation as I did. Plus, this event will be extremely enlightening. Youll be able to finally understand why everything is happening. That seems fair enough, I offered. We can do it. Dr. Lancing nodded.
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Youre free to go, then. Remember, Infiknights. There are none as powerful as you. The only disadvantage is your numbers. But go in good faith, because the entire Jericho staff is behind you one hundred percent. If need be, Nomad can create a wormhole, and well be there in an instant. I frowned. If he can make wormholes, why arent we just traveling like that? Id much prefer that over a three-hour drive. We cant run the risk of an Infinite who can detect it and trace it. Wormholes have to be a last resort, he explained. Well. That was a good enough answer. We finished up in the lab with Dr. Lancing and exited quickly like the people before us, anxious to start our do-nothing day. When we exited the tent, however, we were met by Nomad, Wren, and the twins. Hey, were going down to the lake if you guys wanna come with, Lynx offered with a smile. Her nose was covered in sunscreen, and I noticed that Wolfs was as well. His was beginning to come off, so I had decided that the sunscreen was probably against his will. I have an extra swimsuit in my tent, Wren said quickly, observing Lilis look of concern. Yeah, Nomad said in his deep voice. You guys can just swim in your shorts. Like real men. He laughed, and the rest of us smiled at his amusement in his own words. That actually sounds like a lot of fun, I nodded. I totally second that motion, Demi agreed. Looks like its settled, then, Xavier said. Were going swimming. I had a feeling today was going to be a fantastic day. * * * * * * * * * * * *
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Beach Party And fantastic day it was. As soon as Lili came back with Wren in their bathing suits, both Demi and Xaviers mouths practically dropped to the ground. I could almost see the drool forming out of the corners of their mouths. Since Smith wasnt in the picture, Demetri used today as an opportunity to get close to Lili, whom he spent the entire day talking with. They waded in the shallow banks of sand and laughed until the sun set. Xavier did the same with Wren. This was the first time Id ever seen her even acknowledge his presence, and it seemed as if they were really clicking. Since the girl of my dreams was off somewhere brooding and cutting things with her single sword, I hung out with Nomad, Wolf, and Lynx. Wolf had turned into his wolf state and was jumping into the water, yelping. His change was almost instantaneous, but the end result was shocking. He had turned into a silver wolf that was larger than the average wolf. I could probably ride him if he wouldve held still for more than half a second, but the way the kid acted, you couldve sworn he had ADHD. Lynx wasnt into the whole water scene, being a cat and all. She simply laid on the rocky beach, reading a magazine for teenage girls. Every now and then, Wolf would run up to her and shake his fur, spraying water all over her. She would roll her eyes and complain, but in the end, she was smiling. There was a large and perilous cliff that overlooked the small cove of the massive lake that we were soliciting in. In fact, the whole cove was surrounded in cliff, creating an enclosed pool to have to ourselves, with only a narrow canal leading into the rest of the lake. Those that were brave enough, (Nomad, Demetri, and Wolf), would take turns jumping off of the forty foot clearing on the cliff.
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They prided themselves in their fancy dives, although no one but Demi dared go higher than forty feet up in the air. With his wings, he was used to the height, and wasnt afraid to barrel into the water at hundreds of feet in the air.
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We spent the entire rest of the day on that beach; Lili lit a fire when it got dark. Nomad even teleported to a Canadian supermarket and stole some hot dogs to roast. Borrow, and not return, he corrected when we accused him. We stayed late, but eventually, we had to return to our tents when it got late. After all, the whole point of a day off was to get rest. Numb wasnt in the tent when we got there, which was strange, since it was well past curfew. After the fire incident, though, I wasnt worried. Apparently, the boy could take care of himself. It still surprised me to look at him and think of him as being blind and deaf. He just seemed so independent and capable of doing whatever he wanted. I lay awake after everyone had already gone to sleep. Thoughts raced through my head, and I was hurting from my lack of meditation today. I hadnt realized how, in such a short time, dependent I had become on my daily meditation schedules. It was true that I had been calmer and happier, maybe even less stressed. Not meditating today made me insecure and worry about impossible things that would probably never happen. What if we made it to the meeting, but it was an everyone dress like Dracula event? What if I forgot my pants and accidentally showed up in my underwear? Whisper could never love a guy that forgot pants, and especially not a guy who wore boxers displaying eight different types of birds. I didnt buy that pair of underwear, by the way. It was my mothers idea, bless her. I missed her something fierce. I rolled over on to my side. This was ridiculous. I needed sleep in the worst way, but it seemed like everything around me was closing in on me, with the very atmosphere itself
crushing me with its iron grip of darkness. What if we got caught? What if tomorrow was the day I died? I hadnt thought about this possibility until just then. The fear of death had finally
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touched me, sending a crippling shiver down my spine that was so intense that it almost paralyzed me. Was I ready to die? Would I be willing to lay down my life for any reason? I knew without a doubt that if it were Lili or Demi or Xavier that I would die in an instant for them. But could I do the same for Numb, or even Illusion? I turned this possibility over in my mind for a long time, but never could come up with a direct answer. Eventually, sleep hit me across the back with a folding chair. I went out hard. I was thankful for this in many ways. My wandering mind needed a break from all of the stresses that it had put itself through. I decided that night that I would never not meditate ever again. Id have to thank Nomad for that one if we both survived tomorrow. * * * * * * * * * * * *
Plans We loaded up Dr. Lancings own BioGene van the next day early, as the sun began to rise. What had once seemed like a spacious and roomy interior was now cramped and crowded. Ever possible seat was filled with the twelve members of the mission. The entire camp had gotten up with us to wish us good luck before we rolled onto the road and headed to the rally. The ride up was loud and full of laughter. Nomad was driving, so he blared the radio on a heavy metal station and was jamming out with Wolf, who also sat up front. In the back, Demetri was telling stories and jokes to Wren, but the whole backseat was listening and laughing with him. Numb, Whisper, and Illusion kept to themselves in the very back of the van, staring
aimlessly and quietly out the side windows. I dont think Numb was really looking though, as much as he was just sitting in that position. Soon, the van slowly passed the large expo center. There were vehicles all around the
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large, glass building, even ones that were parked illegally. From the looks of it, people were almost desperate to attend this rally. Where are we going to park? Lili asked, looking nervously at the lack of spaces. This place is packed. Nomad looked around cautiously at the bumper-to-bumper traffic and the pedestrians that were just strolling along, taking their time. Well park a few blocks away, that way we dont run the risk of being seen. But since were parking so far away, I guess we wont have to go in twenty minute intervals. He looked at the clock on the dashboard. Besides, its already eight thirty-seven. Well be late if we do that, anyways. We pulled into the parking lot of an abandoned convenience store and parked there. Nomad pulled a steering wheel jack from under his seat and attached it to the steering wheel. I didnt blame him: this part of town was extremely sketchy-looking. The walls were covered in graffiti, and I noticed a strange symbol that induced an overwhelming sense of dj vu. It was an infinity symbol with extended lines protruding out the sides of it and spiraling around the wall. Hey, Nomad, what does that mean? I asked him, pointing at the sign. He looked at the sign, then back to me with a curious expression on his face. That would be an infinix. The unofficial official sign of the Infiknights. I told you, you kids were revered. People started drawing those signs all over when you disappeared, in hopes that youd come back and make things right again. Oh.
We trooped over to the rally point, stopping once it came into view. Nomad turned to us. From this point on, well be splitting into our groups. Lancing showed me the blueprints to this place, so I have a plan for how well approach this. Basically,
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there are four entrances: a front door, two side doors, and a helicopter landing pad on the top of the building. Now I dont think well have any need for the roof entrance, so unless someone just wants to scale the fifty foot building, I recommend the ground-level entrances. My team will go through the front door. There are two Revolutionary policemen standing guard. Theyll only let you in with a password, and luckily, we have two exRevolutionaries on our side. He looked at Numb and Whisper expectantly. I dont know if this is the same one, Whisper said slowly, disliking the attention Nomad had put on her, But when we were in the army, it was the Infinite Cadence. There you have it, Nomad nodded. So when we approach these guards, you are to say those words to them, and that will grant you entrance. Aidens team, your entry will be a bit more difficult. He pointed to the side of the building, where there was a small door, and a man standing in front of it with his arms crossed. You four are going to have to take that guard out. Approach that however you deem necessary. The door is unlocked, so once you eliminate the guard, follow that hallway straight into the auditorium. Whisper, your team will- wait a minute. Wheres Illusion? Everyone turned around to face the team in the back, and sure enough, Illusion was gone. He was here a second ago, Whisper murmured, looking around in disbelief. I have no earthly idea of where he went. He was here literally less than thirty seconds ago. Nomad sighed and shook his head.
We have to go on. If he doesnt show up by the end of the rally, then well worry. Now, Whisper. On your side of the building, there is a pair of doors on the ground. Yes, you heard me right, they are actually on the ground. These doors are locked with a regular clip-on lock, so Smith, you need to create a key. Will you be able to do that in that short of time? Shouldnt be a problem at all, he replied. Excellent. Open the door, then go down the flight of stairs, where there will be another locked door. This door is locked with an electric lock, so Whisper, youll need to short it out. Just a teeny bit will do. Does everyone understand their roles? There was nodding throughout the small group. Fantastic. Well meet back here at this spot when the rally is over. Remember it by a landmark He glanced around for any possible landmark. Yo, Smith, could I get something sharp? Smith nodded and put his hand on the grassy patch of ground that we were standing on. I had never seen Smith use his power before until now. A slender blade of metal slid up out of the ground beside him. It was about six inches and was pointed on the end. Smith grabbed it and yanked it out of the ground, brushing the dirt off of it. Will this work? He asked, handing over the small object to Nomad. This is perfect. Nomad walked over to a nearby elm tree and jabbed the metal into the trunk. Look for this. Alright, everybody, he looked at us with a serious face, Dont die today. We got a war to win. * * * * * * * * * * * *
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The Betrayal The boy walked through the large black door labeled Backstage and past the scrutinizing glares of the policemen.
My lord, he said, dropping to one knee. The man to whom he was speaking to turned around to face him. He was tall, muscular, and his face was like ice. His long hair was pushed back out of his face, revealing his cold and unforgiving eyes. Ah, its you. Cadences voice purred through the room, silencing the talk of anyone else in there. I assume, since youre here, that everything is going as planned? Yes, my lord, he answered, steadily looking down. A party of twelve was sent, but the Infiknights are here as well. Including the boy of interest that you wished to see. Excellent. Cadence held out his hand. Slowly, a cloud of dust began gathering in his hand, appearing from nowhere. The dust collected together, transforming into a ruby-red apple. From dust he came, he bit the apple causing juice to spray out of it, showing its reality, then he closed his fingers tightly around the rest of it, And from dust I will return him. The apple disintegrated in his hand, the slipping through his fingers as dust once more. You have done well, my child. You shall be rewarded. The pale-faced boy looked up to face Cadence. Thank you, my lord, Illusion whispered. Im undeserving of your benevolence. I trust you will keep watch on them while they are here, and further help me in the very near future? I have some announcements to make to them, and its very crucial that they hear every last one of them. Yes, my lord. Excellent * * * * * * * * * * * *
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Scary Suits on Scary People
We are not going to kill him, I argued as I ran with my best friends to the street across from our door. We slowed to a walk and crouched behind a rusted el Camino. All of us were panting, but Xavier was a little bit more out of breath than the rest of us, as he leaned up against
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the frame of the vehicle. All Im saying is that he would kill us if he got the chance, so we should return the favor. Demetri ran his hand coolly through his hair. Were the good guys, remember, Lili said quietly as she peered through the window of the car to see the guard. It doesnt matter what they would do to us. We have to be the bigger people. Demi frowned. So whats the plan? Xavier asked, his breath returning to normal. Um I honestly couldnt think of anything. I had preached on non-violence, but I really didnt have any other idea around it. I say, Demi stood up and unfolded his wings, accidentally smacking the car with one of them and setting off the car alarm. We wing it. See what I did there? He didnt wait for us to respond to his bad joke. The guard was staring at us and now his whole body was facing in our direction. Demetri flew up and landed over the car, then began running towards the guard. I guess were winging it, I growled as I stood up and took off after Demi. Lili and Xavier followed closely, and my back grew hot as I felt Lili ignite her arms. The guard growled an inhuman growl, then dropped to his hands and feet in a bear crawl fashion. A tail shot out from under his shirt, extending from the end of his backbone all the way to his feet. The end of the tail was covered in glossy black spikes, with red tips on the end of each and every spike. The guard growled again as his tail began swaying back and forth.
State your business, he said in a low voice. If you have none, I suggest you leave before I inflict serious harm against all of you. We dont wish to hurt you, Lili said strongly. If possible, we wish to enter through this door without a fight. He snarled, smashing the ground with his tail and leaving a crater in the concrete where it had hit. All Infinites are to go through the front door. Lili shook her head. Im sorry it has to be this way, then. As soon as she said it, the guard lunged at her throat. She raised her arm to punch a fiery hole through his face, but I stopped him in midair before he could get close. The Revolutionary policeman was suspended, with his look of rage painted onto his face. Something isnt right with that guy, Demi muttered. I cant hold him like this forever, I said, examining the spikes on his tail. We need to do something with him. We looked around our surroundings for any possible form of help. The sirens from the el Camino were deafening, making it hard to think. Xavier snapped his fingers. I have an idea. He pointed to a stop sign that was adjacent to the street. Xavier placed a hand on his temple, and the red octagon fell off of the pole. The metal stake was uprooted from the ground by an invisible force, and floated all the way to where the guard lay in midair. Xavier clenched his outstretched hand into a fist, and the pole wrapped itself around the guard. That should hold him. Xavier dusted his hands off. Demetri clapped him on the back, and Lili pounded his fist. Good thinking, I said, impressed. I released my hold on him, and he fell to the earth with a thud. The guard wouldnt stop screaming bloody murder, so Demetri walked up to him and punched him in the face, putting the guard to sleep. He then threw him over his shoulder,
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busted out the window of the already alarmed el Camino, and unlocked the door, shoving him inside. That way, if he starts screaming again, Demi explained as he walked back to the building, Nobody will hear him. I was really beginning to appreciate the evil geniusness of my friends. Sure enough, the door was unlocked. We slid into the building swiftly and silently, single-file. We were greeted by the low roar of the crowd as the auditorium on the other side of the hallway began filling up. Right in front of us was a door labeled Backstage, and I was tempted to go in there and teach Cadence what for, just as Wolf had planned. I knew, though, that Cadence was probably stronger than I could ever imagine, which was why he was the leader of the Revolution. I resisted the urge and led my friends down the dimly-lit hallway to the door labeled Auditorium. The floor of the hallway was tiled with linoleum and reminded me of the school hallways. A pang of nostalgia swept over me as I remembered my days as a normal high school student. I wondered if Coach Besch remembered the detention he had given Demi, Xavier, and I. Wed have to serve that sentence after we saved the world, I guessed. I slowly opened the auditorium door and stepped inside, while my friends followed closely behind me. The room was huge. Thousands of seats were stacked on an incline, surrounding a stage with a single podium. It looked like a major league baseball stadium, but with a stage instead of a field. The walls were white-washed, but the only light came from the completely glass sky-lit ceilings. A series of spotlights hung down from the glass, aimed at the empty stage.
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I spotted Whisper, Numb, and Smith taking their seats on the opposite side of the room. This was good. At least they had made it in without a hassle. I scanned the room for any sign of Nomad, Wolf, Lynx, or Wren, but among the thousands of faces, I didnt see them. It blew my
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mind to think that every single person seated in this giant room was a super-powered being. I led my friends to a row of four empty seats. Since I was the first to slide into the row, I was the one who had to sit next to a rather large old man with a long white beard. His beard was braided and well-kept, but the rest of him looked like it hadnt seen soap in years. I shuddered as I focused on keeping my eyes straight ahead and looking like I belonged there. Are you here for the rally? He said, leaning over to me. A foul stench rolled through my nose as he spoke, and I had to resist the urge to gag. No, Demetri snapped from beside me. We came to do our taxes. I had to suppress a snicker as the man grumpily folded his arms and sat back in his chair. Lili pinched Demi, and he jumped. What was that for? He hissed. For being stupid! Now shut up, its starting. She was right. Four men in the black and white Revolutionary police uniforms walked onto the stage, two on either side of the mahogany podium in the center. The whole room erupted in a deafening applause as the man from my dream stepped out onto the stage and approached the podium. So this is Cadence. The mastermind. * * * * * * * * * * * *
Inspiring the Evil
He was in a black suit, with a white button-up shirt underneath the jacket, and the golden chain of a pocket watch hanging out of his slacks. He adjusted the knot of his blood-red tie as he approached the podium. Cadence allowed the audience to cheer for a few more moments, then
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raised his hand to silence them. His face was expressionless. Id like to thank you all for being here today, he said, his voice enhanced by the small microphone attached to the collar of his jacket. I know that many of you have traveled great distances, and your faith and dedication in the Cause is touching. I caught Lilis eye and saw the edge in her expression. Seeing her nervous brought butterflies into my own stomach. As most of you already know, he continued, The Infinites of America, all of us, will be engaging the government in a civil war that we will most undoubtedly win. I have already notified the highest of authorities, although they have neglected to respond. Maybe theyre scared. Or maybe, just maybe, they think were bluffing. The room exploded in shouts of protest and threats. His voice was like silk, and this was exactly the reaction he had been hoping for. Cadence raised his hand once more. Well Im here to tell you, good Infinites, that they are wrong. The venom was so prominent in his voice that no one dared speak. A world without strife. A world where everything is peaceful, and there is no fighting amongst brother and sister. Thats the world that I imagine. However, in order to achieve a world with no wars, we must have wars. I dislike it strongly, but in a mere few months, we will begin the war to end all wars. Once people begin to realize our purpose, what we are actually fighting for, they will join us. Hes good, Xavier whispered. Lili nodded. It is my dream to have a one-world government. A one-world currency. A one-world sense of unity. There are those who oppose that, though. Those who have abused the power that I
have blessed them with. Those that call themselves Oppressionists. I waited for the crowds protests, but it never came. They wish to oppress us and prevent the dreams we share from coming true. They are blinded by their twisted sense of justice. I pity these people. I find these crimes of opposition unforgivable. These Oppressionists must be eliminated. Stomped into the ground. At this stage in my plan, they are the only kink, the only thing that could possibly derail the train of liberation. Demetri smacked his forehead. Train of liberation? This is ridiculous, he murmured. But, on to a more pleasing topic. All this talk of rebellion is really destroying the mood here. In two days, I will be hosting the first annual Infinite Ball at the Marquette Ballroom in Madison, Wisconsin. I snapped into attention. Demetri nudged my shoulder and shot me a glance of worry. What on Earth made him decide to pick Gramma Dunns hometown? All are welcome, and tickets will be available for purchase after the meeting adjourns. Cadence adjusted the microphone, glancing around the room as if he were looking for something. I highly encourage all of you to attend this for two reasons. The first and foremost being that it will be a very enjoyable evening in general. There will be music, dancing, and refreshments. The second reason is that my greatest plans will be revealed. None of you will be left in the dark any longer. A sickening smile crept onto his face. I cant stress enough how much I would enjoy seeing everyone who is in this auditorium at the ball. A shiver ran up my spine. I felt like he was speaking directly to me, as if he knew that I was there. As if he knew that I existed at all.
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Remember, we are all brothers and sisters for the Cause. Our unity will triumph over anyone who dares oppose us. And I say with good faith when I tell you The Revolution has begun.
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* Reunion
I kept my head down, not daring to look at the flood of faces as I swiftly exited the building with my friends. The speech had ended almost fifteen minutes ago, but the exits were so tightly packed with people that it made it almost impossible to get out. I stayed pressed against Lili, who was holding onto the tail of Demi and Xaviers shirts nonchalantly. Finally, we made it to the front doors and practically ran outside, nudging and bumping several disgruntled Infinites along the way. I flew down the concrete steps that led up to the expo center and briskly began my walk to the meeting spot. Hopefully, Nomad and the others were already there and nothing had gone wrong. So far, so good. Well, well, well. The familiar voice stopped me in my tracks. I knew who it was before I turned around; that old familiar sneer, the whiny voice, and the greasy blonde hair that framed his face in curls. I never thought Id see you at a place like this, Luca, I said irritably, glancing quickly across the street for any sign of my allies. Luca slowly made his way down the old and weathered steps, not taking his eyes off of the four of us. I guess I should probably thank you, he smirked. Its because of you four that I am the way that I am today. I glanced at Demetri, who rolled his eyes and shrugged. Look, we have places to be, Demi interrupted. We dont have time to mess with you right now, so can we do this another time?
Luca smiled eerily. Something was off about this boy. Not just his physical features, which had not only matured, but had aged a considerable amount, so much to the point where he looked exhausted. It was his tone. His demeanor. This wasnt the same seventeen-year-old that
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had snitched on us for fighting. This was a new Luca, one that had the mindset of something inhuman. You four the Infiknights he began, ignoring Demi. I wanted to be like you. The old Luca wouldve choked on his own tongue before he said that, but hes not here anymore. I wanted the power that you had. Inevitably, it found me. That serum changed me. He stopped on the bottom step, and two more old faces who I recognized to be his friends, Tracy and Micah, joined his side. It changed all of us. Now, Im stronger than youll ever be. He was looking straight at me. I dont care what they say. And now, Im going to make all of you pay for all those times growing up, where I was completely overlooked because of you four! So the truth comes out, Xavier muttered under his breath. Dude, just let it go, Demetri said, exasperated. That was when we were kids, and we arent kids anymore. Things have changed now. As if by some unspoken cue, Tracy and Micah broke away from Luca, each going to an opposite corner and creating a triangle around the four of us. A few Infinites began gathering around the triangle, sensing the tension in the air. Youre right. Things have changed. He clenched his fist, and the sound of electricity crackled through the air. I looked back at my friends, whose expressions shifted from exasperation to concern. Now I can do something about it. Now my life, my achievements, and my goals will no longer be overlooked by you four. Do you have any idea of the hatred that I have developed for you? Its unfathomable. Sure, it started out small and petty. But it grew. Now
here I am. And here you are. Luca clenched his fists tighter, this time sending a spark of electricity up his arm. This wasnt normal electricity, though. This electricity was jet black. Xavier took a step towards the Luca. Look, Im sorry. Were all sorry. None of us ever meant to hurt you or one-up you. Cant we talk about this like normal, rational people? Normal people dont shoot lightning from their bare hands! As soon as he screamed the words, his arm flashed with brilliant black lightning that traveled down to his hands and erupted from his fingertips. A bolt of shining dark electricity was launched at us. I froze the lightning bolt in midair, and in the moment of hesitation that followed, Lili lunged, her arms aflame. She launched balls of fire at him, which he deftly sidestepped. Xavier started to run towards him, but Luca hurled his strange lightning at him, hitting him square in the chest. Xavier fell back, stunned. Are you alright, man? I asked as I helped him up. Yeah, he answered, dusting himself off. Just scared me a little. I turned back to Luca, who was still fighting off Lilis fiery punches. Demi yelled something inaudible to Xavier and I, but Lili must have heard it, as she dove to the ground just in time for Demetri to send a concussion of air with his wings at Luca, knocking him off of his feet. Luca rolled to dodge a fire ball then stood up, the electricity crackling off of him. He raised his hand to send another bolt of lightning at Lili, but was stopped by a black blur that zoomed towards him and grabbed his outstretched wrist. As the blur came to a stop, it clarified into a human shape. My Lord, Luca whispered. Cadence turned his head slowly so that he was looking at me with his peripherals. I had to stop time, I had to get the four of us out of there before things turned bad. But I couldnt. There was no surge of energy coming through my body, and no
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change in time. It was as if an off switch had been flipped, and I was powerless. A crippling fear tore through my chest. Is there a problem here? Cadences voice sliced through the dead silence like butter,
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and his eyes were trained on mine, almost like he was analyzing my very soul. I shook my head slowly, unable to think clearly. Excellent. Remember, we are all brothers and sisters in the Cause. He turned to face the crowd that had gathered. My power is not that which lies in enhanced speed or even reflexes. Cadences eyes crept back to my face. My power is one that is much more to be feared. Do not tempt fate or myself. We are one in the same. He turned his gaze to Luca, who gulped. The man stood up straight and brushed away a stray lock of hair that had fallen in his eyes. Good day to all of you, and I will see you at the ball. He smiled and strode back up the steps and out of sight. * * * * * * * * * * * *
The Bearing of Bad News What happened? Lynxs panicked voice was the first to be heard as we approached the tree with the dagger in it. I took a moment to collect myself. We were waiting on you all to come back and all of a sudden this massive lightning bolt shot into the air. We thought it was Whisper at first, but it was black. Ive never seen Whisper shoot off black lightning. We met an old childhood friend, Lili answered bitterly. We almost got into a fight, but Cadence broke it up. Cadence actually saw you? Wren gasped. Lasses and laddies, do you know how lucky you are to have not been figured out? Thats in the past, I said. Where did you guys go? I didnt see you anywhere during the speech. Nomad shook his head grimly.
Whispers password wasnt the right one. They must have changed it. We wouldve come through yours or Whispers entrances, but they had guards standing by as soon as you were in. They know somethings up, and we would probably be very smart people to get out of here while we can. At that moment, Whisper, Numb, and Smith came sprinting into view. They made their way over to us, all panting and huffing. Smith rested his hands on his knees, hunched over. Illusion he breathed. Illusion he Spit it out, kid, Nomad snapped. Illusion betrayed us. Numbs words were calm and collected, so apparently he wasnt out of breath from the jog over here. We saw him bowing and scraping to Cadence. We wouldve done something, but there were too many of them. Hes one of them, and he always has been. The eleven Oppressionists stood in silence. Thats a problem, Wolf finally said. The wind whipped through the tree, causing the decaying leaves to rustle and fall. Come on, Nomad said solemnly. We need to go home and report to Dr. Lancing. The ride home was quiet; a complete three-sixty from the trip up. No one said anything about what had happened, let alone address the traitorous actions of Illusion. It felt as if a heavy blow had been dealt, and that the Oppressionists had already begun losing the war. What could he have told Cadence? Had he been spying, letting the enemy know our every move before we make it? Why would he do this? There were so many questions left unanswered. When we pulled into Jericho, it was late afternoon. The sun was high in the sky, and a large mass of people had gathered around the fire pit, eagerly awaiting our return. Dr. Lancing had greeted us with a grin and pulled us into the area where the fire is usually at.
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Normally, I would allow you some time to rest and settle in before I pull you in for a mission summary, but these results are too important to be left unsaid for any amount of time. Nomad, status report. Nomad stepped up to the expectant crowd, but not before glancing at
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Whisper with a conflicted look across his face. She shook her head once, then looked straight ahead. Nomad cleared his throat. The Revolution has begun. In a matter of months, Cadence will wage war among the American government. There were a few gasps among the audience. So its going to happen sooner than we expected Dr. Lancing frowned. Yes. We dont have much time, Nomads dark hazel skin glistened with sweat. Cadence will be hosting the first annual Infinite Ball in two days. This information usually wouldnt affect us any, because wed be unwanted guests at such an event. However, this may be of interest to you, doctor. Hows that? The ball is going to be held in Madison, Wisconsin. The hometown of your mother-inlaw and Xaviers grandmother. Lancings frown deepened, and the lines on his forehead broadened. Now what on Earth would make him pick that place? That exposition was in Washington. I dont understand the purpose of having the ball over half the countrys distance away. Nomad looked at him apologetically. This may be hard to hear, but we had a traitor amongst us. The camp was silent. Not even the birds sang, and the crickets had hushed their mournful chirping. Dr. Lancing gazed over the returning members of the mission before a look of understanding crossed his face. Ah. Illusion. Nomad nodded, then looked away.
I had my suspicions about that child. He was always so withdrawn, like his mind was always somewhere else. I should have seen this coming. Demetri shifted beside me. The eleven members of the mission were all huddled in the center of the fire pit, and it was beginning to get
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uncomfortable. Broken and charred sticks jabbed into my feet, and ash lifted off of the ground any time someone moved, making it difficult to breathe. No matter. We will keep moving forward. Did you learn anything else? I stepped forward as Nomad shook his head in response to the question. The four of us had a confrontation with Cadence. I dont think he recognized any of us, but hes fast. Like, insanely fast. And my powers stopped working, although that couldve been a freak incident. But he said that wasnt his power. I dont think anyone really knows what his power is. Your powers stopped working? Lancing asked worriedly. Thats troublesome. Ive heard rumors, Smith piped up. Supposedly, he can create things. He can create whatever he imagines, even life, out of nothing. Thats not possible, Dr. Lancing murmured, pushing his glasses up his nose. There is a well-known law of physics perhaps you all are aware of it? Or perhaps not, judging by the looks of some of you. A few people chuckled. Yes, it states that matter can neither be created nor destroyed. If this is true about Cadence, then he is truly a force to be feared. Thats what he said, Xavier said quietly. A force to be feared. * * * * * * * * * * * *
A Dash of Sorrow and a Pinch of Hatred Everything fell back into its normal routine, and soon the evening rolled around. Our training session with Nomad had consisted of more meditation. I was beginning to wonder
whether or not we would actually be learning any hand-to-hand combat techniques, or if we would just meditate under waterfalls for the rest of our time here. I was okay with it, to say the least. I was pretty sure it was growing on Lili and Xavier, but Demi still loathed it with a passion.
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The weather was pleasant as the sun began to sink into the horizon. I found myself often forgetting that the days were growing shorter, but the early nightfall was a consistent reminder of this. Despite the rapid loss of light, however, training continued as normal. I found myself back on that same rock, placing myself in that mysterious white room and pocketing that mysterious black dot. Surely it had some sort of metaphorical value; I just hadnt figured it out yet. Demetri sat alone on a log adjacent to the dying embers of the fire pit. His mind had been racing in spite of the meditation. His worries, however, werent on the ongoing events that troubled the rest of the camp. His mind was filled with thoughts of Lili and Wren. Did he really care about Wren the way he cared about Lili? Of course not, he told himself. Theres no way she could replace in a matter of days what Lili has built up over several years. He stood up. He couldnt just sit around anymore. If Nomad wanted them to find inner peace, then he would do it his own way. The crisp air bit the back of Demis throat as he sprinted over to Dr. Lancings tent. He threw aside the flap and stumbled into the tent, startling Lancing, Wolf, and Lynx, who were sitting at a table talking quietly amongst each other. Dr. Lancing, Demi panted. He held up a finger while he caught his breath. Demetri, are you okay? Dr. Lancing asked worriedly, standing up. Im fine. Have you seen Lili? He asked. Lynx nodded. I think she said something about going to the lake, she answered. Why? Youre the best, Lynx. Thanks! And Demetri was gone.
Demetri flew through the roughed out trail of the border forests near Jericho. He had to resolve this; he had to tell her how he really felt. Demi felt as if he would explode if he held it in one more minute. He grinned stupidly as he jumped a fallen log. Imagining her reaction when he
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told Lili of his feelings for her had been a long-standing daydream, and now was his chance to act it out. He slowed down once he had reached the edge of the forest. A small fire had been lit by the lakeside, so combined with the pale light of the moon, he could faintly see Lili through the dusk. He could also see that she wasnt alone. Demetri dropped to a crouch and edged his way closer through the brush so he could see more clearly. He could hear an audible noise and knew that they were talking, he just couldnt make out what they were saying. Through a gap in a pile of brush, he could clearly see her and her companion. They were sitting close to each other. Way too close. Smith was sitting next to her on a small log pulled up to the fire. Lili was looking down steadily, so her facial expressions were unreadable. Demi held his breath tightly, not even daring to blink. Smith said something that caused Lili to avert her gaze from the ground and meet his eyes. Demetri shook his head silently, a sense of dread washing over him. He knew he shouldve looked away. He watched in silent horror as Smith leaned in closer. Lili remained motionless, allowing him to progress. The world seemed to have slowed down, and perhaps it even stopped spinning as his lips met hers. Demetri tore out of the brush and back through the forest. A single tear glistened in the moonlight as his emotions raged, switching from hurt to frustration, from frustration to anger, and anger to rage. He slowed his sprint down and came to a halt in the middle of the forest.
Above him, the forest canopy parted, allowing the cloudy moon to shine through in a spotlight surrounding him. He wiped the damp and salty substance off of his face, resenting its very presence against his hot cheeks. A flock of sparrows scattered as Demetris wings snapped out, crashing into a nearby tree. His hand went to his neck, trembling. As he ran his fingers along the curve of the dog tags, his anger peaked. Demi closed his fist around the ball bearings of the necklace and tore it off, tossing it to the ground. The earth shook as he bolted into the air, scaling over fifty feet with a single flap of his massive wings. He knew what he had to do. There was only one thing he could do, the way he saw it. So without looking back, Demetri flew. He flew fast and hard, with only one thing on his mind. Vengeance. Revenge for destroying his life. Revenge for destroying the lives of those he loved. He sought it and he would get it, Demi vowed silently. Or he would die trying. * * * * * * * * * * * *
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Confrontation I must admit, your presence here is just as amusing as it is surprising, Cadences voice was harsh, not like it was during the speech. Demetri stood at the end of the auditorium, poised and ready. Cadence loosened his tie and placed it on the podium from the opposite end of the room. Judging by the look on your face, he said as he unbuttoned his suit jacket, Youve come to right a wrong. Would this be correct, Mr. Hill? Demetris breath caught in his throat as he clenched his fists tighter, stunned at Cadences knowledge of him.
How do you know who I am? Demi demanded. His wings were outstretched and occasionally he would flex them in an attempt to demonstrate his power. Cadence stared at Demetri, emotionless and nonchalant. I know all about you and your friends, my good man. I know that the four of you were here earlier today. In fact, I know the exact locations of each and every one of you at this very second. You see, Im omnipotent. A real god, unlike the likes of which you and your friends posed as. I know everything. Demetri began walking towards Cadence, his knees shaking. You arent a god, he spat. Youre a coward. A coward who needs an army to do the things that you could never do alone. The corners of Cadences mouth twitched. Well, as Im sure you would agree, talk is cheap. You are nothing but a delinquent child with a tendency to act compulsively. I will give you one opportunity to leave. Perhaps you will go back and tell your rebellious friends of the mercy that is the Infinite Cadence. On everything that I am, and all that I ever was, I swear that I will kill you. You will die by my hand. So be it. Cadence unbuttoned the top button of his pale dress shirt and closed his eyes. If this is the way you want it, then I will grant it. What a shame. You could have been a Revolutionary general with your talent. Slowly, he opened his eyes. They had become pure black, with only the spotlight glistening off of their moist surface. Demetris heart sank as he realized that the man in front of him wasnt as kind and strong as he was made out to be in the speech. This man was far beyond terrifying. He was a demon. * * * * * * * Dog Tags * * * * *
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Hey, has anyone seen Demi? I asked, my mouth full of food. Lynx looked at me in disgust, then nodded slowly. He ran by the lab earlier, she answered. Thats gross, by the way. I opened my mouth wider and displayed its contents to her. He was looking- would you stop that?- for Lili. Thats weird, Lili said thoughtfully as she bit into her apple. He hasnt missed a meal before. Surely hes not still training? The mess hall was bustling with the excitement of todays news. Illusions betrayal had given people a subject to gossip about, although Whisper and Numb had yet to acknowledge it. Word of the oncoming war with the Revolutionaries sparked excitement among the brave, and fear in the shy. Im a bit worried, to tell the truth, Wren said. Ive spent the past week with him, but Ive yet to see the child once this evening. Im pretty sure I was the only one to catch Lilis grimace. Nomad grunted beside me. Theres Lancing. Ill go ask him about it. Without another word, Nomad strode off towards Dr. Lancing, who had just entered the room with his clipboard in hand. My table watched in silence as he said something inaudibly to Dr. Lancing, and Dr. Lancing returned it with a shake of his head. Um. Thats not good at all, Xavier said, scratching his head. Nomad slid back into his seat and began peeling his banana. Its a no-go, he answered the unspoken question. He said hed put it in the bulletin, though. At that moment, the short doctor stood up on a vacant table and cleared his throat. Excuse me, por favor! And excuse my French! Once he had everyones attention, he continued. Before I begin, has anyone seen Demetri Hill? Anyone? People began looking around and whispering amongst themselves, but nobody had seen Demi. Very well. Then it
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appears we have a soldier MIA. Since no one knows the location of this camp, I doubt anything bad has happened. Im sure he left of his own will, so well just have to patiently await his return. I leaned over to Lili and noticed that she shared the same concerned look that was
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undoubtedly painted across my own face. Why on Earth would he want to leave? I whispered to my friends as Dr. Lancing continued with his report. I have no idea, Lili answered. But Im worried about him. He usually goes off alone when hes mad about something. I dont want him to do something stupid for a stupid reason. Guys, relax. This is Demi were talking about. Xavier scratched the back of his head. He can handle himself, so theres no need to worry. Like Dad said, hell come back when hes ready. Youre just glad hes gone so you can have all of Wrens attention, Wolf teased quietly. Xavier turned red, and Wren, who was sitting across the table, pretended not to hear. Stop eavesdropping, Xavier hissed. And no Im not. Whatever you say, man. Out of the corner of my eye, I saw someone enter the tent. It was Numb, holding onto something silver. He walked up to our table silently and placed the object in front of Lili. I believe this belongs to you. Lili picked up Demetris dog tags and pressed them in her hand. It bore Demis full name and address on the tarnished stainless steel surface. Actually, this is Demis. Where did you find this? Numb turned to leave. I found it in the forest, he said without looking back. If it isnt yours, why does it have your initials on the back of it? Lili froze. She turned over the metal plate in her hand, and sure
enough, L.M. had been carved into the back of it. Encircling the initials was a scratched-out heart. Her mouth formed a small o. Thank you, she said quietly. Numb nodded curtly and continued to leave. The table was silent as everyone watched Lili stare at Demetris dog tags. I have to go. Wren and Lynx stood up to accompany her back to the tent, but she waved them off. Id rather be alone right now, she muttered as she briskly exited the tent. Well, Nomad broke the awkward silence that ensued. Who wouldve thought it? Little bird-boy had a crush on little fire-girl. I glanced at Wren, who was struggling to fight back tears as she kept her head down, and sighed. So much pain. When did this war of the superpowers become an inner conflict of love? I would much rather have violence and killing then stress and emotional trauma. * * * * * * * Proposals It was the day of the ball, and Demetri had yet to return to Jericho. The entire camp had been on edge with the revelation of Illusions betrayal, the mystery behind the Infinite ball, and the suspense of Demis vanishing act. It seemed as if every conversation that took place around camp was a hushed gossip or a rushed whisper. Although, speaking of Whisper, her and Numb had had nothing to do with the situation. They merely kept to themselves, but no doubt were hurting from the unexpected loss of a friend. Earlier that morning, Dr. Lancing had called the ten remaining members of the spy mission into his laboratory tent for a meeting about the ball. He had informed us that we would be attending this event, but only the ten of us, which meant that if we wanted to bring dates, it would have to be amongst ourselves. Lancing repeated himself at least four times that the * * * * *
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purpose of the mission was not solely to enjoy ourselves, but if there was as many people attending as he suspected, then we could afford a little time to ourselves. The purpose of the mission, in fact, was much more difficult than the last one. It was to pinpoint Cadences location and terminate him, as Dr. Lancing had said. More than likely, Cadence would be in a back room or somewhere secluded and private so that he could act out whatever plan he had been planning. This was all on pure speculation, Lancing reminded us, but there was a ninety-five percent chance that the speculation was accurate. So Lili, Smith had said shyly after the meeting was over, as he approached the three of us. I was just wondering if maybe youd want to go to the ball with me? Lili opened her mouth to say something, then glanced back with an exasperated look that only Xavier and I caught. Taking the hint, I tugged on Xaviers sleeve and led him away from the awkward teen moment that was occurring. Luckily, I happened to spot another potentially awkward teen moment as Wren walked by. Hey, Wren! I called out, causing Xavier to instantly blush as soon as her head turned our direction. She walked over to us as she pulled up the collar of her fleece jacket to protect her from the chilly autumn wind. Hey guys, she waved as her enchanting Irish accent rolled off her tongue. Beside me, Xavier shuddered, and I had my suspicions that it wasnt because of the wind. I think Xavier had something he wanted to ask you, I said with a smile. I turned around and briskly walked away without giving Xavier the chance to protest. Behind me, I heard him say something that sounded like a stutter, but it was followed by laughter from Wren. The laugh wasnt spiteful, so I silently cheered for Xavier in the back of my mind. I knew the telepath could hear it, so that was all that mattered.
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Hey. I whirled around, startled by the sudden noise behind me. To my surprise, Whisper was standing behind me, her hands shoved deep in the pockets of her own jacket. She tucked a loose lock of hair out of her golden-tinted eyes and into her bandana, which was a
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Whisper trademark. Whisper! I placed a hand over my heart and laughed. You scared the crap out of me. She half-smiled at me. Yeah, well. We cant all be beautiful like you. We laughed together this time, and it was nice. Now I remembered the Whisper from the forest, the one who bore her heart and soul to me, the one who kissed me so passionately in the frozen rain. Not the cold, dark Whisper who kept to herself, who everyone feared. Anyways, she continued, Do you wanna be my date for the ball? I was shocked by her abruptness. She definitely wasnt beating around the bush. What about Numb? I wasnt going to ask you because I thought that maybe you and him were going together. I could go with him, if you wanted me to No, no, no, thats a terrible idea. It would be my honor to go to the ball with you. She smiled again warmly. So, Ill pick you up at eight? This was a joke, because we were all taking the Jericho limo, (AKA the BioGene van), to the ball. Sounds good. I guess Ill see you then. She walked right up next to me and swiftly brought her lips to mine. A spark shocked my mouth as we connected, and I jumped. Sorry, she said quickly, but from the smile across her face, I didnt think she was sorry at all. * * * * * * * Prom * * * * *
Woohoo! Party! Wolf, shut up. The van rolled down the interstate at ninety-two miles an hour with Nomad at the wheel.
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Four hundred miles ago, the nine other helpless ball-goers were screaming for their lives, but as we gained more ground, we realized that Nomad had a certain way about driving that made him avoid collisions and being spotted by highway patrolmen, although there had been several close encounters. That afternoon, Dr. Lancing had sent us out to a fancy dress store to buy our clothes for tonight. The goal was to blend in, he had said while handing Nomad his credit card. If we wanted to do that, we had to look like the other Infinites. He told us that he trusted us and our sense of fashion, but by the crazed looks of hunger that had grown on the girls faces, I had to warn him that it was a bad idea. Nevertheless, he still had us go and get our formal attire. After what seemed like hours on end, everyone came to a final decision on what they would be wearing at the ball. Under the wisdom and guidance of fashion guru Lynx and her assistants, Lili and Wren, I had decided on a jet black tuxedo, a white vest for underneath, and a silver tie to compliment the piece. I had picked it out myself, so I was rather proud when it received approval. Now we were headed for Wisconsin in our new suits and dresses; the guys in the front, laughing and joking as usual, and the girls in the back, doing each others hair and complimenting one another. It was almost funny how low maintenance men were, yet women were the complete opposite. The van smelled of burnt hair and perfume as the straighteners sizzled and the curlers curled. I crawled back into the backseat.
So Lil, I said quietly, What ended up going down between you and Smith this morning? I never got the chance to hear. Lili rolled her eyes and held the mascara brush in her hand near thigh. Oh yes, do tell, lass. Ive been dying to find out about this. Wren winked at Lili. Basically, he asked me out, and I said no. He tried to kiss me the other day, and that was just too much. Smiths a cool guy, but I really dont think of him like that. Oh girl, Lynx said, dabbing away at her eyelids. The kid tried to make a move on you? I wouldve gone all panther on him and ripped his throat out. No, unfortunately, the thought didnt really cross my mind. Im just gonna fly solo on this one. I gave her a look of shared sympathy. She missed Demi just as much as I did, if not more. Even though the outside world was beginning to darken, I could still see the Now entering Wisconsin sign as we flew past it. I was thankful for this because the seven hour drive had taken a toll on my butt. I couldnt feel the left cheek. I knew it was still there, I just couldnt feel it. I sat back in my seat, wishing that Demetri was there and not off somewhere unknown. I wished that he was laughing at Wolfs jokes and Nomads sarcastic comments. I wished he was making fun of Smith to himself, cracking up and leaving Smith to wonder what was so funny. But he wasnt. Demetri was gone. It wasnt too long after that before we passed the Madison city limits, and then the Marquette ballroom. The building was a massive white dome with large marble steps leading up to it, very similar to the expo center. Down the center of the steps laid an extremely long red carpet, which was being walked all over by the masses of well-dressed Infinites entering the
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ballroom. On either side of the carpet were elegant fountains, with underwater lights flashing in pastel shades of red, blue, and yellow. Wow, Xavier murmured as we pulled into one of the few vacant parking spots. This place is ridiculous. No joke, Nomad nodded, adjusting his red bow-tie. This guy wasnt messing around. The group walked over to the entrance of the ballroom in an unorganized huddle, the couples were joining together and talking quietly amongst themselves, and the singles, (mainly Wolf, Nomad, and Smith), were laughing loudly as they walked. I noticed Nomad put a single hand in his pocket, and when he did this, Wolf followed his lead, while Xavier slipped his own hand in Wrens vacant hand. Numb followed closely behind, keeping his masked face hidden in the shadows. You, my dear, are looking extremely beautiful tonight, I whispered to Whisper, fighting back my nerves and deciding to not hold back this evening. My heart fluttered in my chest as she blushed, visible by only the moonlight and the lights from the fountain. It was true, though, about her looks. Her hair was back in a coif, with locks dangling down the sides of her head, framing her face. She wore a black dress that flowed out just past her knees, and a white sash wrapped around her waist to complete the outfit. I could see the outline of her twin blades under her dress and along her back; Smith had made her a new one, apparently. You dont look too bad yourself, sir, Alright. Ill take that. There were two men in suits standing at the glass entrance at the end of the red carpet, admitting people and rejecting people. I came to the conclusion that these were the official superbouncers. Once it was our turn to be admitted, the bouncers eyed us carefully. I held my breath as they looked us over wordlessly. One of them pointed to Nomad.
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Youre good, he said in a gravelly voice. One by one, the Oppressionists were admitted until it came down to Lili, Xavier, and me. Hm. Alright, the girls good. And the black kid. Youre good, too. Enjoy yourselves. I
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gulped as my friends left me by myself to be scrutinized by the bouncers. Whisper and Lili waited on the other side, staring cautiously at the two men. Looking back at the men, I couldve sworn I saw one smirk at me. Okay, kid. Sure. Go for it. The smirk was gone as soon as it had appeared. I sighed with relief as I entered the massive ballroom and took the arm of the most beautiful girl in the building. * * * * * * * * * * * *
The Dance It was exactly as I had dreamed it. The ceiling was extremely high, with a giant crystal chandelier hanging from the center of the dome. Marble pillars lined the walls, holding up a set of stairs on either side of the room. The floor was shiny and slick, with a coat of fresh wax glistening off of its surface. In one corner there was a string quartet, sitting in their seats and playing a quiet but melodious tune, while in the other corner a DJ was waiting patiently, scrolling through playlists. I guessed that they were taking turns, the quartet playing for slow dances, and the DJ playing for fast-paced dances. The only thing that differed from my dream was the red carpet down the center of the room that lead to Cadence, sitting smugly at his throne. He was here, though. Raw power rippled through the air, and the pressure was almost palpable. Of course, it could have been due to the hundreds of Infinites gathered in such a small area.
The ten Oppressionist spies split up into their pairs, dates going off with dates, and singles mingling with other singles. I led Whisper out onto the dance floor and placed my hands on her hips. The soft strings climaxed; the bows of the violins were beating out a steady tempo,
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making it easy for us to sway to the beat. I stared intently into her honey-colored eyes, praying that I wasnt coming on too strong. I love this song, I said with a smile. Beside us, couples spun and twirled in long flowing dresses and dark suits. We fell in line perfectly next to them. Yeah? I bet you cant even name it, Whisper teased. Einaudi. Nuvole Bianche. Original composed for a solo piano, but theyve made a string arrangement out of it. I dig it. She looked at me blankly for a scary second, then laughed. Alright, Mozart. Didnt know you were such a musical prodigy. Prodigy? Nah. Maybe connoisseur, but definitely not prodigy. Youre full of crap, thats what you are, she returned my smile as Nomad waltzed up to us with a rather attractive young woman attached to him. I grinned at him. I guess the man really did have game. Alright, you two lovebirds. Hand check, he called out to us. I feigned guilt and held up my palms, and Whisper rolled her eyes. Nomad winked at me. Good man. And then he and his partner disappeared into the crowd of unfamiliar faces once more. What are we gonna do with that guy? I asked, still grinning. Hes a kid in a mans body, honestly. The music died down, and almost as soon as it had ended the DJ started up a loud hip-hop song, the bass blaring loudly, shaking the chandelier. Instantly, the crowd began pulsating with the music, jumping up and down, laughing and enjoying themselves. Whisper didnt relax her arms though, which were draped across my neck.
Instead, we continued slow dancing to the loud music, not even to the beat, although it didnt really matter. All that mattered was her and I. And Cadence. Crap. Cadence. My focus flickered between her eyes, glancing back and forth at both of
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them. I knew I had to look for him, but the very thought of leaving her by herself while we were having a moment as heartfelt as this one made me slightly sick. Truth be told, ever since we were informed of this mission, I had wanted to take out Cadence alone. I was okay with injuring myself, it was just my closest friends and newly acquired Jericho family members that I feared for. It would be nearly impossible for me to live with myself if they got hurt and I could have prevented it. Whisper, I said, glancing at the staircase. A Revolutionary policeman in a black suit scaled the stairs and slipped through a door at the back of the ballroom. Youll have to excuse me for a moment. A look of confusion crossed her face as she turned around to follow my gaze. The man had already shut the door behind him, so she witnessed the empty stairway. Whats wrong? I had to think quickly. I have to pee. Oh, that was smooth. I mentally slapped myself yet again. Oh. Alright. I smiled weakly at her, then dove into the wave of strangers. Nice going, Aiden, I thought angrily. Way to just leave her. No, focus. I need to find Cadence. But I need him to be alone Whisper stood alone amidst the dancing ballroom. She looked around cautiously, observing all of the different varieties of dancing, ranging from lame to raunchy. It was strange. She had been alone almost her entire life. So why did she long for his company so much now? What had changed?
Excuse me, maam. May I have this dance? Whisper turned around to face the person who had spoken, although she had already known who it was from the first breath he had taken to speak the sentence. She wasnt prepared for what came next, however.
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Standing in front of her now stood Numb. She gasped softly as he half-smiled at her. She didnt gasp because Numb wanted to dance, although that was surprising in itself. She gasped at the half-smile. The half-smile that was visible. In his left hand, his mask dangled by the ribbon that had formerly kept it tight against his face. Whisper nodded wordlessly, so Numb slid his mask in the inside pocket of his vest and held out his hand for her to take. The music still blasted, but it was barely heard over the emotion in both dancers eyes. * * * * * * * Infiltration Both of the staircases were blocked by policemen, so I opted for the shady-looking sidedoor. The surrounding area was full of people, so it would be easy to get lost in the crowd and slip through the door unnoticed. I glanced around the room quickly one last time to make sure that no one was watching, then I slid through the door noiselessly; the guests didnt so much as look up as I went. The thundering bass of the music was barely heard over the throb of my own racing heartbeat. I was now in a dark hallway, with old velvet floors and dim lights that buzzed monotonously. This hall made the rest of the building seem like a work of art, due to the complete neglect that it had obviously been through. My breathing increased as I made my way down the hall, and I couldnt help but notice the strange black stains that were splattered across the carpet. I was praying that it was grape jelly, but my instincts told me different. * * * * *
I passed a series of yellowed doors on either side of the hallway, door after door, until I finally reached the end of the hall. At the end, there was a set of stairs that led up to the top floor of the ballroom. Id like to say that I came to that conclusion using my astounding powers of
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deductive reasoning, but it was actually due to the sign nailed onto the wall next to the staircase that read, To the Top Floor. As terrifying as the stairs looked, they werent that bad. It was times like these, though, that I wished I had Demis gift of flight. Climbing stairs was just too much work. Once I had reached the top, I found myself at the edge of yet another hall. This one was a complete opposite to the previous, however. It was white, with marble pillars lining the sides of the walls. At the end of the long corridor was a single door with a white arch over the top of it. I slowly came to the door and placed my hand on the glass doorknob. A split second before I was about to turn it, I heard voices carrying from the next room. I froze. My palms sweated on the latch of the door as I pressed my ear up against it, struggling to hear what they were saying. Theyre all accounted for except one, my lord, a deep male voice said. Its fine. Im fully aware of where the winged child is. He wont be a threat, I assure you. My breath caught in my throat. He knew where Demetri was. What do you want us to do about the other ten? asked the lower of the two. I could almost feel Cadence smirk. Just keep an eye on them for now. As long as they stay within sight, they shouldnt be a problem. Of course, if they start lighting torches and raising pitchforks, then I give you my blessing to open fire. Honestly, I couldnt care less if you killed the seven. And it wouldnt
bother me too awfully bad if you killed the fire Infinite and the psychic Infinite. But leave the boy, Aiden. I want to be the one to kill him. This time, I stopped breathing altogether. Sir, a new voice said. It had sounded like this one had just entered the room. Weve lost our visual on one of the targets. Which one? Cadence responded calmly. Kind of shaggy brown hair, black tux, gray tie, about yay-tall. I heard a chair scrape across the hard floor, perhaps being pushed out from under a table. Thats a problem, then. Fix it. You too. Go with him. Yes sir. There were footsteps, and I prayed that they werent headed for the door that I was pressed up against. The footsteps got louder and louder, as did my heartbeat, which pounded in my head. I heard a door slam, and sighed with relief. The room was silent once more. I was debating on whether or not to open the door and perhaps have a slight chance of landing a successful sneak attack. The last time I had been near Cadence, though, my body locked up, and I couldnt use my powers. Surely that was a freak accident or a coincidence, right? All I had to do was open the door, stop time, and slit his throat. Itd be that easy. I almost laughed, in spite of myself. There was no way Id be able to just slit his throat. Cadence cleared his throat on the other side of the door. You may as well come in, Mr. West. Theres no use in prolonging the inevitable. I shuddered. How on Earth had he known that I was listening in? I swallowed hard and put on my best brave face before turning the glass handle of the door and entering the room. * * * * * * * * * * * *
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In the Eye of the Storm
A gust of cool air swept over me as the door opened and I stepped into the room. It appeared as if the room was some kind of study, with bookshelves lining the walls and a fireplace burning brightly in the back corner. In the center of the study was a small couch, with a
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glass coffee table placed in front of it. Cadence was seated on the couch with his legs crossed. He leaned back into the cushions, smirking at me. Tell me, Aiden. What did you hope to accomplish by coming up here today? His voice was like ice. It was sarcastic, with an almost mocking tone. I clenched my fists tightly at my sides. Id humor him. Maybe talk a little, maybe get a little information from him before I freeze time and figure out the easiest way to kill him. Im going to kill you and end this war. I was brutally honest. There was no point in lying, I was sure he already suspected it anyway. You know, thats the second time Ive heard that in the past couple of days. Everyone wants to kill me. Im still unsure of my offense. What could I have possibly done that would make you all hate me so much? I ignored the question. Wheres Demetri? He laughed humorlessly. You mean that winged fool that just barged into my territory? I hate to tell you, but your angel has fallen. I growled and took a step towards him. Youre lying, I accused. Cadence relaxed even more and loosened the tie that he was wearing. Simply his demeanor was making me furious. Tell me where he is, now. Cadence grimaced, then frowned at me. You are in no position to make demands. You should be on your knees right now, begging me not to kill you. I know you heard every word that was said in here. I said it just so
you would hear it. I am going to kill you. That was the breaking point. I closed my eyes and concentrated, willing time to come to a halt. Oh, come now. Dont cry. It will be quick, like a Band-Aid. A Band-Aid of excruciating pain and agony, but a Band-Aid, nonetheless. My heart sank as the realization of my power failure sank in. That same annoying smirk returned on Cadences face as he held out his hand, palm up. Just dont fight it. Itll be easier for everyone that way. This should be enough to get the message across to that buffoon of a doctor. The Oppressionist organization will be slaughtered without hesitation. He flexed the muscles in his outstretched hand, then frowned. He glanced at his hand, then flexed it again. Nothing changed. Thats strange. I wonder why my powers are failing me... So Cadences powers didnt work either. He looked from his hand back to me. You. This is your doing. How are you doing this? No matter. Ill just kill you, and not worry about this problem anymore. Faster than I could blink, Cadence had moved from his seat in a blur, and slammed his shoulder into my gut, smashing me into the wall. He took a metal lamp post that had been placed for decoration and ripped the bulb off with brute strength. Then, Cadence proceeded to bending the metal around my body and digging the ends into the wall, restraining me against the broken wall, preventing me from making any movements at all. I was completely helpless. I dont understand how youre able to take away my powers when Im near you, but it would appear as if you cant use yours either. Otherwise you would have demonstrated them already. He glowered into my eyes and raised his hand up to my neck, loosely placing his fingers around my throat. This is nothing personal. Trust m- He was cut off by an explosion that came from the ballroom, followed by screaming. Smoke rolled under the crack of the closed door, and I smiled at Cadence.
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It would appear as if you have bigger problems than a powerless teenage boy. Maybe you should worry about the entire Oppressionist army in your dance hall. His fingers tightened slowly. You can kill me, I continued. But know that good will always prevail. Even if Im not the one to kill you, Ill be succeeded by one who will get the job done. Cadence snarled. Brave words, in the face of death. Thats admirable. But it angers me. The door flew open, and the two bouncers came running in, breathing through their shirts. These mustve been the other voices I had heard earlier. My lord, theres a problem, one of them coughed. The nine rebels are here, and theyre destroying everything. Cadence sighed and took a step back, releasing his hand from my windpipe. Very well. Ill return to finish what I started. After I kill your loved ones. Cadence turned and walked briskly out the door, leaving it wide open for the smoke to pour in. Great. If it wasnt Cadence that was about to kill me, it was a fire. Why couldnt the good guys just win already? Oh yeah. Because this was the real world, not a fairy tale. The hero may actually die in this story. * * * * * * * * * * * *
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A Love and a Loss Well, this was just great. My friends were downstairs taking on four times their numbers, and I was stuck here, jammed against a wall with a lamppost. I coughed as the smoke poured into the room, getting thicker and thicker. Of course, Cadence hadnt been courteous enough to shut the door behind him, so I was probably going to die of smoke poisoning or something lame like that. I couldve taken a bullet for a friend. I couldve even died standing up for a righteous cause.
But no. Its the smoke that would do me in. I stood there helplessly, wallowing in self-pity, when the crackling of electricity snapped me out of my thoughts. I stared at the open door, bracing myself for a new threat. I hoped that it would be
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Whisper coming to my rescue, but more than likely, it was Luca coming up the stairs wanting to finish me off himself. I wiggled my fingers to see if I could control time again now that Cadence had left. Sure enough, the billowing smoke began slowing down. I allowed it to speed back up as the electricity got more intense. There was always that slim chance that Whisper was on her way. The sound of a grown man screaming filled the air, and there was a surge of electricity. The man flew past the open door, allowing me to see him for just a split second as he sailed down the hallway and smashed into the wall. Seconds later, Whisper ran into the room, still sparking. That guy was mouthy. All we did was light the ballroom on fire. And Im pretty sure Nomad teleported a grizzly bear into the room. But thats no excuse for profound name-calling, she muttered as she ran up to me, drawing one of her swords. Remind me to never make you mad. She wedged the sword between the bent lamppost and the wall and pried it off, sending it clattering to the floor. Our eyes met for a split second, then we kissed. Whisper dropped her sword to the ground and wrapped her arms around me, knotting her fingers through my hair. I closed my eyes, but mainly because the smoke was really starting to burn them. She broke away and placed her forehead on mine. Theres something Ive needed to tell you, she whispered. What is it?
Aiden, I think I might be in lov- She gasped softly. I opened my eyes slowly as her arms went limp and dropped from their position on my body. My heart sank as I saw his malicious sneer glaring down on me, while something hot and sticky dripped onto my arm.
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Shaking, I moved my gaze back to Whisper. The end of her own blade was protruding from her stomach, and crimson blood began oozing out of her wound. Whispers face was still contorted with pain, although it still maintained its eloquent beauty that had made her so perfect. Cadence pulled the sword out of her body and flung it to the ground. Whisper collapsed. This is what happens when children go out of their way to disobey me. Someone has to pay. Cadence shook his head sadly at her limp body. Her chest rose and fell quickly as she gasped and wheezed for air. Her eyes were half open, and her expression was lethargic. Such a pity to lose an Infinite like this. She could have gone so far. He prodded her side with his foot, then stepped on her, resting his foot on her bloody stomach. My insides seethed with rage. I clenched my fists, willing with all that I had for my powers to work, but nothing happened. A sickening smile grew upon Cadences face, but it quickly went away when Whisper growled underneath him. There was a spark, then another. And then, in a display of more power than I had ever witnessed in my life, Whisper exploded. The room was illuminated with showers of sparks and flares of electricity as Whisper put every last bit of her power into Cadence. The light fixtures popped, causing glass to shower down on everyone in the room. I shielded my eyes and protected my face, hoping that a stray bolt of this indoor lightning wouldnt stray from its path and strike me. Finally, the reports died down. Cadence toppled over to the ground, his body seizing violently. Whisper sighed deeply, then closed her eyes.
I ran over to Whispers still body as tears began to stream down my face. Her breathing was slow but shallow, and her pulse was weak. I tore my suit jacket off and pressed it against her wound in an attempt to stop the bleeding, but it just resulted in the jacket becoming saturated
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with the substance. Dont do this to me, Whisper, I whimpered through gritted teeth. Whisper, come on! Stay with me! Numb sprinted through the door, his mask tightly on his face and smudged with soot. He was accompanied with a large gray wolf and a brown wildcat with frayed ears. Numb looked from Cadences lifeless body to Whispers lifeless body, then from Whisper to me. You What did you do?! For the first time ever, Numbs voice wasnt calm and collected. It was frantic and scared, and sounded like a little boy who couldnt find his mother. Numb ran over to Whisper and shoved me off her, sending me flat on my butt. He hovered over her, his body shaking with sobs. Whisper? Whisper, youre going to be okay, just keep looking at me. He looked up at me suddenly. You can go back in time. You can save her. You can fix this, and fix her! I shook my head silently as another tear rolled down my cheek. I dont know how, I said, my voice breaking. I cant do it. I cant Numb lunged at me and grabbed the collar of my dress shirt under my vest. Its not that you cant! Its that you wont! He accused frantically. You dont want to save her! Numb, thats enough. Nomads deep voice silenced the room. Either compose yourself, or leave. We have a mission to fulfill. I couldnt see Numbs eyes past his mask, but I could tell that he was looking at me with pure hatred and resentment. I looked to the ground in shame and didnt resist his grip on my shirt. I shouldve been able to help Whisper. He raised his
hand as if to punch me, but Wolf tackled him before he got the chance. With Lynxs help, they managed to pry Numb off of me. Numb sobbed once out loud, then went back to Whisper and began caressing her forehead. What happened? Nomad crouched down and asked me softly. I shook my head. Cadence he got Whisper but she got him back. Now theyre both I shook my head again. Beside me, Cadence let out a weak laugh. Nomad leaped up and placed a hand around Cadences charred throat. You may have killed me, but Cadence lives on. The real Cadence. He will finish what Ive started. Soon, all of the world will bow at his feet. All of the world Cadences voice trailed off. He closed his eyes, and his skin began cracking. It cracked all over, just like the apple from my dream. Soon it had become so cracked that he was split into a billion tiny pieces, and his body began blowing away into dust, leaving nothing but his clothes remaining. The Revolution has only just begun. His voice echoed through the room. Then, Cadence was gone. The room was silent. Nomad stood back up and looked at me. I know where Demetri is. I can take you to him, he said suddenly. How? Where- Wait, what? Where is he? I stammered. Hes in a prison that was created by Cadence, Nomad explained. Heres the catch, though. This prison is in his mind, in a dimension that he created by bending the laws of physics. I can teleport you there, but youll have to hurry. With Cadence gone, its collapsing fast. What about Lili and Xavier? We dont have time to go get them. You have to go now. Alright, Ill do it.
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Alright. Nomad reached out a hand and helped me up, but he didnt let go of it, even after I was up. His grip was firm against my clammy, shaking hands. I want you to know that this is a figment of Cadences imagination, but everything youre about to witness is real, and it can kill you. Youll only be alone until you find Demi, then, once you do find him, I want you to shoot this. He reached into his suit jacket and pulled out a small handgun, then handed it to me. Whats this? I asked, turning over the gun in my hand. Thats a flare gun. You shoot it, and Ill know to bring you back. But you only have one shot, so be sure youre ready when you shoot this. Also, make sure youre standing near the spot that I teleport you in, or I wont be able to find you. Alright, lets do it. Nomad nodded once, then cracked his knuckles. With a pop, he teleported me out of the reality and into Cadences collapsing realm of nightmares. * * * * * * * Nightmare The same sensation that I had experienced when teleporting to Jericho for the first time washed over me. The colors swirled all around me, but instead of the bright shades of red, yellow, and blue, these colors were dark and ugly, consisting of black, gray, and brown. Nausea and dizziness hit me hard as I flew across the dimensions, until I finally hit a hard surface. I dont remember it hurting as much last time. I pushed myself off of the solid paved ground that I had landed on and stood up straight, taking in my surroundings. I had landed in the middle of a large highway. There were no cars, yet the yellow lines that dashed the center of the road looked almost brand new. The sky was turbulent and dark; the sun was nowhere to be found, but it was bright as day, despite the stormy ceiling. * * * * *
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On both sides of the highway, there were large abandoned buildings lined side-by-side. The only thing that separated them were small alleyways in between. The buildings were gray and faded, with windows that were busted out and walls that had been vandalized with graffiti. I
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felt completely alone, but at the same time, I felt as if I was being watched intently by some omnipresent being. In front of me, the highway ended at the foot of a massive building. The building had no windows, just a door at the front, and a porch with a rocking chair that was swaying back and forth slowly. Upon closer inspection, I noticed that there was an older man in the chair, just sitting and staring. I was too far away to observe details, but I decided that he was probably my best source of information in this deserted reality. Something was also pulling at my gut, telling me that this building that lay directly ahead of me was where Demetri was being held captive. I walked in the middle of the road as thunder rolled overhead. As I approached the building, the slow squeaking of the rocker became audible. My heart began racing. I didnt know why, but fear began creeping up my spine in a dreadful way. I reached the foot of the cemented steps that led up to the porch where the elderly man rested. He didnt turn his head to acknowledge me, so I took a step up. The second my foot hit the steps, the ground began shaking. I dropped to my knees as dust began to rise. All around me, buildings were beginning to crumble. As soon as the tremor had started, though, it was over. I stood up cautiously and took another step. I had to keep moving. For Demi. Hey, I called out to the man once I had reached the top of the steps. Im looking for my friend. Im new around these parts. Maybe you could help? The man said nothing. The rocking never ceased, but I noticed that it his pale blue eyes were glazed over, and a white translucent film separated the irises from his unblinking lids. A putrid stench washed over me as
I neared the man. I put a hand up to my mouth and gagged. I could feel the vomit rising in my throat, so I quickly ran to the door of the building, silently begging it to be unlocked. It was, and I entered the room, falling to my knees.
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My breath came out quickly and panicked. I had no idea what it was that I just witnessed, but I knew that I didnt want to know, either. Once I had collected myself as much as possible, (which wasnt much under these conditions), I stood up and looked around. The floors were wooden and dusty, and there was no furniture. The only light came from a single hanging bulb. Across the room, there was an old yellowed door that was missing a doorknob. It sounded as if there was music being played, but it was muffled, like it was coming from another room. The sound was out of tune and high pitched, as if an old music box was being played and needed to be rewound, but it never stopped playing. I approached the old door slowly and hooked my fingers through the hole where the doorknob used to be. I pulled the door open and peered inside. A set of stairs led to the top floor, but it was pitch black. The only light came from the top, where it appeared as if the door to the top floor had been left ajar. I walked in and stepped on the first wooden step, which creaked under the weight of my foot. I took another step, then another, feeling my way up the dark stairs. Once I was about halfway up, I heard a noise coming from downstairs. It sounded as if the door from which I had entered the building was creaking open, and something thudded inside. It began taking uneven steps, thumping against the ground with one foot, then scraping the next across the dirty floors. I held my breath and sprinted up the rest of the steps, tripping over my own feet in the darkness and not caring about the racket that I was making. It felt as if the darkness was crushing my heart.
I reached the top step and flew through the door, slamming it behind me. I looked around, frantically searching for something to barricade the unlockable door with. I was in a hallway. This room was also lit with a single bulb, swinging from a cord on the ceiling. The carpet was
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red velvet and it was stained with a substance that appeared black against the carpet, just like the one in the ballroom. Against the wall, there was a small cabinet with a phonograph resting on it. The phonograph was old and dusty, just like everything else in this building, and a black warped disk was rotating against the needle, causing out of tune 40s swing music to blare through the speakers of the phonograph. I ran over to the cabinet and set the phonograph down, then pushed the wooden box to the door, slipping it under the doorknob. Hopefully that would buy me a little time. I sprinted down the end of the hallway, all the way to the door that led into the next room. I came to a halt and placed my hand on the doorknob. As soon as I did, there was a banging noise that came from the other side of the barricaded door. I froze as something sharp rapped the top of the barricaded door and slid down the side of it slowly, imitating the noise of nails on a chalkboard. I turned the doorknob and slammed my body against the door to the next room, exploding inside and slamming the door behind me. As soon as the door was shut, I turned around to face the next room, only to get smashed across the face by a heavy fist. I fell to the ground, my eyes watering and my whole head in agonizing pain. Aiden! Oh my God, Im so sorry. I thought you were I looked up through the tears and saw Demetris concerned face looking down on me. Relief flooded me as I stood up, wiping the blood and tears off of my face.
Demi! I cant believe I found you. You thought I was what? I took his outstretched hand and grasped it hard, bringing him into a bro-hug. Demi smelled awful, like he hadnt showered in weeks. His hair was greasy and overgrown, falling into his eyes. It appeared as if he
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had been in this prison for several months, not just the two days that he had been missing. The only thing that still remained clean and intact were his outstretched wings, still as white as ever. It doesnt matter. Do you have a way out of here? Yeah, once we get out of this building, Ill signal for Nomad to teleport us out. But we dont have much time, this whole place is collap- As if on cue, the building shook, sending rubble from the ceiling on top of our heads. As soon as the tremors died down, there was a banging on the door. Demi brushed past me and slid a deadbolt into place, locking the door. Why didnt you have that locked when I came in? I asked, my hand going up to my still sore nose. We were tired of that thing terrorizing us, so I figured Id put an end to it, or die trying. What the heck is that thing? Wait, we? I glanced past Demetri, and saw the outline of a man sitting in the corner, hidden by shadows. Demetri stepped in front of me. Look, before you react, you need to know something I ignored the rest of his words. The man had stood up and stepped into the light, revealing his appearance. His face was down, but as he slowly looked up, my body seized up and my head throbbed. In this room, this dirty cell, Cadence stood, looking just as worn and disgusting as Demetri. His hair was also overgrown, and his eyes were sunk in. His clothes werent the elegant dress clothes that he usually wears, but were tattered jeans and a ripped and dirty white shirt. Hey Aiden, he said, looking me straight in the eye. You probably dont remember me, but Im your brother.
* Redemption
You what?! Shut up! I dont believe you! I lunged at him, but Demetri caught me in
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midair and slammed me on my butt, hard. The thing outside the door began scratching, creating the same awful noise, but I couldnt hear it over the intensified pounding in my head. Hear him out! Hes telling the truth. I glowered at the man whom I had just seen maim the girl of my dreams, and crossed my arms. Ill hear him, but that doesnt mean Ill listen. Cadence, my alleged brother nodded and sat down in front of me, but was careful to keep a good amount of distance between the two of us. Thank you, he said quietly. I know this is hard for you to hear, but well, Ill start from the beginning. He inhaled deeply and exhaled slowly. My name is Logan West. I left when you were little. Mom, Dad and I had gotten in a fight. It seems so stupid now. If I could go back and change it, I would. If I could leave this prison, if only to tell them that I was sorry, if only to tell them I love them, one last time, I would. I hated leaving you, Aiden. I really did. But I left because of that fight. I was angry, and I wasnt thinking rationally. This man came up to me and told me about a plan that he had. A plan to take over the world. I thought he was crazy at first, but once he explained himself, I began to imagine the possibilities in my head. He told me about Dr. Lancing, how he had been working on a project to make genetic powers appear in humans. He told me that we would wait for him to perfect it, however long it would take, but then he would need my body. You see, this man, the real Cadence, he already had powers. I dont know how its possible, but he did. He could control people by taking over
their bodies. Thats what made me follow him, was the amount of power that he possessed. He made me believe that world domination was possible. Anyways, when the time came for Dr. Lancing to perfect his solution, his Infinite Clause, Cadence took over my body. I gave it to him, willingly. I didnt know that hed be sticking me in this hell for the time being, though. He used my body, making me act as Cadence so he could stay hidden. He spoke for me from afar, manipulating my words and actions, and gathering his army. His plan worked flawlessly. Unfortunately, he forgot to take into account one thing. You, Aiden. Because I sacrificed myself, your closest blood relative, his powers wont work around you, and yours wont work around him. I dont know why that is, but you may be the only one who can stop this tyrant. I took all of this in, staring at my newfound brother intensely. Was it true? Was this man really my brother and not Cadence? I know its a lot. But we dont have time for you to decide whether or not you believe me. The scratching on the door turned to an angry beating. Whatever was on the other side of that door wanted in. Now. I I believe you, I said quietly. Thats great, Demetri said exasperatedly. Now how do you propose we get out of this building? Um We could I was interrupted by another earthquake. This one was much more intense than the last. The ceiling! I shouted over the chaos. You could break through the roof and fly us out! Demetri glanced at the collapsing roof for a brief second, then grabbed mine and Logans arms. He took one breath, then shot up through the ceiling. We broke through the top with ease
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and landed on the roof. The ground was still shaking and the buildings that had begun collapsing, falling in on themselves, causing massive dust clouds to rise up. Now what? Demetri yelled at me. Where do we go from here? We need to be there! I pointed at the middle of the road where Nomad had teleported me in. Demetri nodded and leapt off the building. I clutched him tightly as he glided down the side of the building, landing on the bottom step of the porch. Over the earthquake, I could still hear the creak of the rocking chair. I glanced behind me quickly, but to my surprise, the chair was empty, rocking steadily on its own. We need to go now! Logan shouted. We took off sprinting down the road, dodging the debris that was flying our direction from the collapsing buildings. The dust had kept to the side of the road, so the only thing visible was the empty stretch of highway. We had almost made it to the spot of departure when something limped from the debris of a building and planted itself in the middle of the highway, right where we needed to be. The creature stood up, and I could see more clearly now that it was the old man who was rocking in the chair on the porch. He was hunched over; his milky eyes were still unblinking. The man cocked his head to the side and slowly raised a bony hand up to his face. His long fingers pulled at the corner of his mouth, and the rotting flesh that was his skin began sliding off. His face was now covered in little patches of skin, but the rest was rotted muscle and black blood. The yellowed bones of his face protruded through, and pus oozed out of his eyes. The man groaned and took a step towards the three of us. Hey, Demetri? I said quietly. Yeah, bud? Is that what you were hiding from?
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Yeah. Yeah it is. What do we do now? I dont really know. The creature growled as it took another step. I looked from Demi to Logan, whose eyes were trained on the nasty beast that was approaching. Logans expression changed from fear to determination. You guys go on ahead, Logan said solemnly. Ill take care of this guy. Logan, that thing will kill you! You cant! I pleaded, grabbing his arm. He placed a hand on mine and gently removed my grip. I left you when you were little. I never should have done that. Because of my mistakes, you were thrown in the middle of a war. This is me trying to make it up to you, although I know I never could. If it wasnt you, Cadence wouldve found someone else! Please dont do this Demetri put his hand on my shoulder and squeezed as the rotting man took another step closer. Let him do it, Demetri whispered to me. Logan nodded. Im dead already. I dont have a physical body. If I dont do this right here, right now, Ill be trapped in this prison forever. Theres no hope for me to go back. I could feel the tears welling up in my eyes. I had just met my own brother, and now I had to lose him? Logan turned to me and wrapped his muscular arms around me. When you go back, I want you to tell Mom and Dad Im sorry. I love both of them. I should have never hurt them like I did. And Aiden, he let go of me and turned his gaze towards the monster, I love you, too. I know you can end this war. Youre a West. Greatness is in your blood. He winked at me, then took off towards the creature, growling. He tackled it and began smashing his fist into it.
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Dont watch. Demetri took my arm and dragged me around my brother. I watched in horror as the creature bit into Logans shoulder and caused his face to contort in pain. I closed my eyes, but not before I saw the monsters razor-sharp bony fingers stab through Logans chest and come out his back. This time, I couldnt hold back the vomit. Aiden, call Nomad. With shaking hands, I wiped the vomit off of my mouth and reached into the inside pocket of my vest. I pulled out flare gun with a shaky hand, and shot it into the air. Almost instantly, the scenery began spinning, the colors raced, and we were flying. My eyes were pressed shut as a hot tear slid down my face. But I had done it. Now, I was going home. * * * * * * * Finale All was quiet, aside from the soft patter of rain against the hospital window and the steady beeping of the heart monitor. I was the only one in the room with Whisper at the time, although people had been coming in and out all day. Mostly people from Jericho. They were the only ones who knew about her injuries. The doctors were surprised to see her wound heal up overnight; theyd heard about an Infinites amazing healing ability, but never believed such a thing until now. They were still confused as to why she was still in her coma, though. All of her vitals were fine, her blood was flowing normally, and there was no sign of anything wrong with her at all. She had just never woken up. It had been almost a week since I saw Cadence stab her, and watched my brother fall to save mine and Demetris lives. It seemed like it all happened yesterday, but moreover, it seemed * * * * *
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like a dream. All of this was overwhelmingly surreal. Superpowers? Alternate dimensions? A brother I never even knew existed? Could all of that even be possible? There was a knock on the door, causing me to jump. I looked up to see Richard Lancing
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smiling warmly at me. Mind if we come in for a while? He asked, standing in the doorway. Not at all, I replied. Go for it. He walked in the room followed by Lili, Demetri, Xavier, and Caleb Cail. My friends and Dr. Cail took seats around the room, and Dr. Lancing sat on the edge of Whispers bed. Everyone in the room was aware of the events that took place at the ballroom, but we were the only ones. Nobody else knew about Logan. Dr. Lancing wanted them to believe that Cadence was dead until the real Cadence acted again. He guessed that it would be a while before that happened, though. This way, the members of Jericho could go be with their families until Lancing called upon them for assistance again. Aiden, youve been here for five days straight, Dr. Lancing said, his expression turning to concern. Would you like us to take over for a little bit? You cant keep living off of hospital food. I shook my head, vacantly staring out the window. Nah, I answered. Im still alive, arent I? Its really not bad, once you get past the lack of salt and pepper and ketchup and everything else that makes food good. My friends chuckled softly. Were all worried about you, Xavier said. You should at least go out for some air. Hows Gramma Dunn doing? I asked Cail, ignoring Xaviers suggestion. Shes good. It didnt take long to repair the damages from the Revolutionary policemen. I visit her every so often to see how shes doing.
Hes full of crap, Demi said loudly. They have Friday night date nights every week. Cail blushed and looked away. The room erupted in quiet laughter, breaking the gloomy mood. Aiden. Lili walked over to the oversized chair that I was sitting in and squeezed in next to me. She looked at me straight in the eyes. Why dont you come outside with us and get some fresh air? You dont have to leave. We can just go hang out for thirty minutes, maybe an hour, just like old times. Dr. Lancing and Dr. Cail will watch Whisper. I looked from Lili to Dr. Lancing. If anything happens with her, if she wakes up, if she moves, anything, youll be the first to know. I promise. I swallowed hard and nodded. Alright. A walk in the rain sounds really good right about now. I stood up and allowed Demi, Xavier, and Lili to leave the room before me. I began to walk out of the hospital room when Dr. Lancing caught my arm. Dont you want an umbrella? I have one if you want to use it. I smiled at him. Umbrellas are funny things, you know? A really good friend of mine once compared rain to life. How can you live life to the fullest if you hide from one of its simplest beauties, rain? Suit yourself, then, Dr. Lancing said, shrugging. Now I may have imagined it, but before I turned around to leave the room, I could have sworn I saw the corners of Whispers mouth turn up into a smile. * * * * * * * * * * * *
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