Disclaimer: Still don't own them and I'm still crying!!!!!!! Enough already!!!!

Thank you again to those who reviewed!!! They help!!! This chapter is much, much, much more exciting.

Let us see what makes the pot stir...

The Pot Begins To Stir

Tintin Belagant sat near her father's gardens, soaking in the mid-afternoon sun. Things seemed different around the Tracy household today. She could tell something was off with all of them but she didn't know what. After breakfast all of them had retreated to some activity of their own. Jeff had kept himself all day in his office, Scott had gone for another run and then busied himself with Thunderbird 1, Virgil had stayed in the house either helping Scott or retreating to his room, Gordon had remained in the pool all afternoon, and Alan had remained out of sight. After his early dismissal from breakfast the kid hadn't been seen or heard from. This worried her. Usually at this time of day Alan, Fermat and herself were out venturing the island or just talking about something that interested each of them. However, over the last few days Fermat had been gone and so it only left her and Alan. As awkward as it may have seemed at first she honestly treasured the time both of them spent together. Over the course of the last few months both of them had helped one another deal with the left over side effects of the Hood's reign. She helped Alan deal with his depression and seizures, while he helped her deal with the guilt that her uncle had been the one that had hurt his family.

Standing up she brushed some dirt off her. If she was going to find out what was bothering Alan and his family she knew sitting around all day dreaming wasn't going to solve anything. Taking one last look on the ocean horizon she started her mission.

-TB-

"A-are you sure? Has he told you his demands?" Brains asked.

Jeff frowned at the man on the vid-screen. "According to Penny this man shouldn't be trifled with. However, we have yet to have seen or hear from this man."

"Do you want Fermat and I to r-return?"

"No. You are both safe where you're at. I just wanted to contact you so you know what's going on. We don't know how much this person knows, so do be careful," Jeff said to the scientist.

"We will and you and the boys be safe al--as well. If you n-need anything call me."

"I will. You and Fermat have fun. You both deserve it. We can handle this," Jeff said with a smile and disconnected the video connection.

Leaning back in his chair he let loose a stress filled sigh. He couldn't believe this was happening again. He had dedicated his life after Lucy's death to saving people and now someone wants to harm them. For what? Revenge. What revenge? It was like he was dealing with the Hood all over again.

"Dad?" he heard someone say. Looking up he saw it to be his oldest son. "You okay?" his son asked.

"I need you to gather up your brothers and TinTin. We need to discuss what is about to happen and what this man wants," Jeff said, looking at his son sternly. If this man really needed to be taken seriously then every Thunderbird was needed for this one.

"FAB," Scott said and quickly turned from his father's office.

If this was another fight like the Hood then it was going to take everything within them to win. Jeff knew that much.

-TB-

The quiet office of an international building was a welcomed sound to Josh Cummings. After the fiasco of his last job this was a welcomed sight. He may have more rooms to clean but at least he was by himself. Wheeling his cleaning cart into one of the offices he knelt down, picking up a full garbage can. Picking it up he dumped it into his large bag.

"Hello, Josh. Is this job treating you better than the last one?" he heard an eerie but familiar voice say. Turning around he saw the last person he wanted to see. Taylor Rich.

"What's the matter, didn't expect to see me? Well I have a favor to ask of you," the man said, taking the garbage can out of his hand and tossing it on the ground.

"Look Rich, I've had enough of your antics. You got me fired from my last job and I'm not going to let you mess with this one so just buzz off. I'm not helping you land this job," Josh spoke, standing defiantly.

"I don't want this measly job. I have better things to do with my life than clean up after someone else. What I need from you are two things. One is for you not to open up your big fat mouth to anyone about me. Tomorrow a man and a woman will be coming to speak to you about our old job and about me. If you so much as speak a word about my doings, well let's just say you will wish you never met me. The second is quite important and if you so much as mess it up well my statement stands," Taylor spoke, eyeing the man.

"Why should I be afraid of you?! Ever since the day I met you, you've ruined my life. You got me fired from my last job and now I have detectives after me about that fire at the school. They think I had something to do with it and it was you, you bastard. I know it. So why shouldn't I make your life as miserable as you've made mine?" the stout man yelled at his enemy.

"Because if you don't do what I say then I'll show you why you should be very afraid of me. You don't want me as your enemy and you'll see why."

Within seconds Josh Cummings knew nothing as his brain felt like it was going to explode. Pain racked through every inch of his body. Looking with bleary eyes he saw the malicious smile of Taylor Rich. He now understood that this man was not to be messed with.

-TB-

Alan slowly trudged his way into his Dad's office behind Scott. Gradually as the afternoon had progressed he had developed a major headache and his back hadn't helped any. Trying his best to hide his discomfort he walked over to the couch and sunk into it.

Everyone in the room eyed the teen suspiciously but let him be. Virgil, Gordon and Tintin sat on the couch with Alan. Scott leaned against the wall in the corner nearest Jeff, who sat at his desk. Leaning back in his desk chair, Jeff looked at his family.

"I assume everyone here knows why we are here?" Jeff spoke, face stern. Receiving a nod from each of them he continued. "We do not know what this man wants nor do we know what his "revenge" is about. Right now John is trying to find any trances of evidence from where this man made these threatening phone calls to the President."

"Has he found anything?" Gordon asked.

"Not yet. Whoever we're dealing with is smart, but everyone makes mistakes and when he does we will capitalize on it."

"So what's our move right now?" Scott asked, walking up to the couch and leaning on the arm rest near Gordon.

"Right now we just need to investigate and found out who this man is. At this moment everything seems personal. As long as no one else gets involved or hurt we remain low," Jeff said, meeting his oldest son's understanding eyes.

"And what if this man involves outside forces? We don't know what he will do. If he wants his revenge on us bad enough he will most likely do anything to achieve it," Virgil stated from his position on the couch.

Alan stood up from his position next to Tintin on the couch. As much as he wanted to hide his discomfort there was no way without making everyone more curious. Walking up to the windows he leaned against them. "We react as an organization. We can't let this person get us to lower to his standards, right? We're the Thunderbirds and our job is to rescue so that's what we'll do. We can't allow him to dictate how we react to those in need; then he will just get what he wants."

"Precisely, Alan. We have to remain strong and show this man that he isn't stronger than us. Of course, I'm sure the Hood's rant hasn't helped our overview by the world in the least. We just have to show that nothing like that can happen again," Jeff said, smiling at his youngest son. He couldn't believe how grown up he was acting. It was definitely a change from his usually impulsive reactions. Alan's comments seemed thought out. Had he been thinking about this threat all afternoon? He hoped Alan's fears left over from the Hood wouldn't affect him against this one.

Alan smiled back at his father. Looking around the room he received approving looks from each of his family members as well as TinTin. He could tell they were proud of him. He had meant his statement. It seemed to make the most sense. If they lowered themselves down to his level than they were no better than him. His father was right. They had to prove that nothing like the Hood would happen again and anything resembling his actions wouldn't be permitted.

You see so sure of yourself, Alan. Is your lovely family meeting giving each of you hope? Do you really think you know me and that you can defeat me? You have no idea who I am! I will have my revenge! Make no mistake about that!

Alan instantly tensed as he heard the man's voice in his head. The invasion made his headache worse, sending him to ground. Within seconds, or so it seemed the man's anger was pelted on his brain.

"Alan!" Tintin called as she looked over at him kneeling on the floor. Before she could get up and reach him Gordon was past her and at Alan's side.

"Alan? What's wrong? Is it him?" he asked, trying to sooth him. The teen cradled his head protectively.

"Gordon what are you talking about?" Virgil asked as he knelt by his little brother, trying to comfort him as well. All of them were utterly shocked at the sudden condition Alan was in. One moment he was making comments about their current situation and then the next something was horribly wrong with him.

They can't help you, Alan. They can't protect you. No one can. I will kill them and make you watch and then I'll kill you very slowly.

"NO! YOU'LL NEVER HURT THEM! JUST LEAVE US ALONE!" the youngest Tracy screamed as he felt like his brain was going to explode.

"Alan! Focus on my voice. Focus on pushing him out. You're stronger than him," Gordon coaxed.

Alan's breathing was very rapid and fresh tears of pain ran down his pallor cheeks. He didn't care what Gordon said. This man was like the Hood. The invasion hurt just as much as the Hood's had so many months ago.

Your father better do as I ask or lives will pay, Alan. Now, you don't want that do you?...

"WE'LL NEVER DO AS YOU DEMAND!" he screamed as one last surge of pain was sent through his mind. As quick as the torment had started it had stopped. Leaning against Gordon he tried to ease what pain had been left behind.

"Shsh. Just relax. Is he gone?" Gordon asked, as he and Virgil held a strong grip on their baby brother.

Suddenly the excitement in the room was interrupted by a sound of an incoming transmission. Jeff quickly ran to his desk, hoping it was John. Sadly as he opened the link he saw a shadowed figure looking back at him. "Hello Jeff Tracy. Oh are we surprised at the fact that I know who you are? Oh yes, I know who the Thunderbirds really are," the figure spoke with a slight accent.

"Who are you and what do you want!" Jeff screamed back at the screen. His concern over Alan was sending his emotions into over-ride.

"You'll know soon enough. How's Alan? I bet he is having a horrible time right now, isn't he? Ya know, I probably shouldn't entertain him that way should I? I might bring back his seizures and what a shame that would be," the man said with a malicious laugh.

"You bastard! Leave my brother alone! He has done nothing to you!" Scott screamed behind his father.

Alan slowly lifted his head, looking up with his tear-stained face. "Alan?" Virgil asked, completely worried. The teenager met his older brother's eyes. Virgil could see the fear in them. "Who hurt you, Alan? Who is Gordon talking about?"

"I'm talking about him," Gordon stated, pointing towards the video screen. "That bastard is who. He wants to hurt us and Alan."

"So I take it Alan told you about me, Gordon? How charming. I wonder why he didn't tell the rest of you. I'll let you figure that one out," the figure stated.

"Enough! You leave my family out of this. This is between you and me. What do you want?" Jeff sneered, having enough of his games.

"What do I want? There is so much I want. First things first though. I can't be too greedy at first. What you're going to do for me right now Tracy is wire 10,000 dollars to bank account number 1 050 0170 2487 at the Westchester Bank in Veroia, Greece by 10 tonight. You won't be able to find me that way if that's what you're thinking. I've arranged some tricks for this to work. You see, Jeff. I'm always going to be one step ahead of you and there's nothing you can do about it. Now, I'll let Alan tell you the rest of the gory details as of now. You'll be hearing from me again soon. Oh, and Scott your little plan to trace this call won't work. I'm smarter than that," the man stated as he disconnected the call.

"Damnit!!" Scott yelled, hitting his fist against the desk in anger.

"Calm down, Scott. We'll get him, be sure of that," Jeff stated. Getting up from his chair he walked over to where Gordon and Virgil had managed to help Alan over to the couch.

"Easy, Alan," Virgil stated as they let him go.

"I'm fine now," the blonde stated, looking completely drained.

"Alan, what did he say to you?" Jeff said gently, kneeling in front of his son.

Alan moved his hands to his face, rubbing his temples. He wished their enemies would stop picking on him. Honestly, what had he done? Looking upwards he met both Tintin and his family's worried expressions. Sighing he cradled his head in his hands for a moment. Finally meeting his father's worried eyes he began. "He wants us to shut down International Rescue. He doesn't think we deserve to save lives when all we do is destroy them. Your guess is as good as mine at what that is supposed to mean. He said if we didn't do as he demanded then innocent lives would pay for our actions. Dad, he hates us with a fiery passion. Trust me I felt how much he hates us. This man is smart but he also has some flaws. Think about it. If he isn't going to pick up the money that we're supposed to give him than someone that works for him will."

"Then we can obtain this person and question them about this man," Gordon stated as he followed Alan's thoughts.

"Exactly," Alan stated giving Gordon a smile.

"Wouldn't he have already thought of that?" Virgil questioned.

"It's possible but we can't take that risk. Lady Penelope and Parker are both in this location. They're still investigating the school fire. I'll give her a call and see what she can arrange. If this works then we've definitely hit a stroke of luck," Jeff stated, looking at all four of his sons and Tintin.

"Alan are you sure you're okay?" Tintin asked, worried at how he still cradled his head as if in pain.

"Yeah. Nothing some strong pain killers won't fix," the youngster stated, ignoring the imploring looks of his family members.

"Why didn't you tell us about this, buddy?" Scott asked near their father.

There it was. The one question he was waiting for. Alan looked at Gordon, giving him a knowing look of annoyance. Even though the auburn haired kid hadn't spilled the beans he still helped in the suspicion as to why he was the only one that knew. "I didn't want you guys to worry. I've caused enough grief over the last four months and there was no need to create anymore. There was a reason he contacted me first and after everything you all have done over the last four months you deserved to be worry free for at least a little while. It wasn't a big deal. I can handle this. I handled the Hood and I can handle this jerk."

"But you ended up with a consequence, Alan. As much as we appreciate your thoughtfulness at giving us some peace your brain is still healing and the pressure on your brain won't help the healing process," Virgil said.

"Alan, I need you to promise me that at the moment he contacts you again that you come find one of us or just hit the emergency switch on your watch. I know you want to handle this on your own and I understand why but I need you to do this for me. Virgil is right. Your brain is still healing and as much as I just want to tune out what that man said he is right about your seizures. The trauma his invasions bring could spike them up again and we all know you don't want that. So promise me Alan that you will tell us. No secrets about this. We will handle this as a family and as an organization," Jeff spoke, taking Alan's hands in his.

Alan smiled back at his father, understanding his logic. "I promise, Dad."

"Good, now I think you should go lay down for awhile. You don't look so good and the rest will do you some good. No arguments. Gordon will you help him to his room?" Jeff said.

"Of course. Come on, Alan. You heard the boss."

"Yeah, yeah. Just because I have a killer headache doesn't mean I can't hurt you," stated the teen, eyeing his brother with pure annoyance.

"Yeah, I'd like to see that one. You probably would end up hurting yourself further," Gordon smirked, helping him stand.

"You're so lucky I don't have the energy right now, Gordon." Slowly but surely the two made it out of Jeff's office.

"Do you think he's going to be okay?" Tintin asked.

"He'll be fine with rest," Jeff said with a reassuring smile.

"Would you like me to see if my father has any herbal remedies that may help Alan to relax? With all the medication he been taking, I'm sure the change of help would be best," Tintin offered.

"That would be wonderful, Tintin. Thank you," Jeff said, smiling at the Malaysian girl. Not even waiting a second the teenager speed off to find her parents.

"Are you really going to wire that money?" Virgil asked his father as Jeff sat next to him on the couch.

"Yes and no," Jeff simply stated.

"What do you mean?"

"Well, I'm going to call the bank and have a nice chat with them. Once I've spoken with Lady Penelope we can shape our plan from there. Granted we only have five hours to organize a plan, I just hope Alan's right and he sends one of his goons to pick up the money."

"Do you really think he's going to be okay, Dad? This can't be good for him," Scott said.

"I don't know. There's not really anything we can do. This man is going to keep toying with Alan's mind no matter what we try to do. I just hope it doesn't affect his recovery. Besides keeping an eye on this threat we have to keep an eye on your brother," Jeff Tracy stated grimly.

"I can't believe all of this is happening again. It feels like we're dealing with the Hood all over again," Scott huffed sitting next to his father.

"I know, but we'll get through this. It's only the beginning and he may have caught us off guard this time but he won't do it again if I have any say," Jeff fumed.

"We know, Dad. We'll all do our part to bring this man down. If Alan was able to bring down the Hood then all of us put together can bring down this man," Virgil stated as both Scott and him placed comforting arms around their father.

-TB-

Penny listened to Jeff intently as she rested in their luxurious hotel room. For such an ancient country that Greece was well they had definitely kept up with the times of today. "I can't believe he demanded the forfeit of International Rescue. Who does this man really think he is?"

"That is a very good question, Penny. Have you been able to locate Josh Cummings or Taylor Rich yet?" Jeff asked the petite woman.

"We have actually traced Mr. Cummings to a new job. He is working as a janitor for an international company. Parker and I plan to make a visit with him tomorrow. We haven't been as lucky with him. It's as if he has fallen off the face of the earth. No one has seen nor heard from him since that day at the school. Right now I think we might be able to find out what we want from Mr. Cummings. According to the local authorities the man can be persuaded easily. This fire at the school wouldn't be his first offense if he did it."

"It usually never is their first offense. I've already spoken to the bank's manager and arranged a phony wire to the account. According to the manager the account is register to a Ms. Briseis Keosas. Obviously an alias of some sort but how does a 'she' get involved?" Jeff questioned.

"That is something I will find out for you, Jeff. Is there anything else that you need from me?" the blonde woman spoke, smiling back at him on the vid-screen.

"Not right now. Thank you so much for what you are doing, and I'm really sorry for calling you in the middle of the night as it is for you there. Hopefully I'll talk to you in a couple of hours," Jeff said, returning the smile.

"That's what I'm here for. To help. Plus anyone who tries to hurt your family isn't only messing with you they are messing with me. I know you probably won't, but try to get some rest before the exchange tonight. You look like you could use it."

"I'll try." With that both disconnected the call.

The night still held much promise for them and he just hoped it held. That bank held their next course of action and it also held their hope of stepping ahead of this man. Leaning forward on his desk chair, Jeff smiled at the portraits that stood before him. One was of him and his five sons in his red Thunderbird and the other was of his beloved wife Lucy and their sons. He missed her so much at times like these.

I need you to help us get through this again, my love. I need you to look over our sons and protect them from harm if this should get ugly. I will give everything that is within me to make sure that doesn't happen but only the will of God can change things. Be our angel, baby. Our guardian angel.

-TB-

Kyrano's lovely concoction of herbs and tea had helped Alan relax immensely. Within mere moments of drinking the liquid he felt his body relax. The last thing he saw before sleep welcomed him was the beautiful face of Kyrano's daughter. Taking her hand in his he squeezed it with thanks and fell into the world of dreams. Quietly as Gordon and both Tintin and Kyrano could they made their way out of Alan's room, leaving him to his slumber.

Alan Tracy felt like he was on top of the world. For the first time he was in a peaceful place. Looking around he smiled at his surroundings. At his feet was sand and in front of him was the ocean front. It was just like home except everything seemed different here. The weight of the world was gone from him and he felt peace. Now this was an awesome dream. He had everything he wanted at the moment, well almost everything. The only thing that would make this world even better would be the members of his family joining him in the beauty. Every family member. The one person he wanted most was his mother. He had missed chance to get to know her. When she had died in the accident he had only turned 3 years old. All the memories he had of her were what his father and brother had told him.

Walking into the water he stared down at his reflection. Blonde hair, fair skin, and blue eyes met him. A complete resemblance of his mother, as often many told him. Walking further into the water he let the warm ocean water wash over him.

"Alan."

Spinning around he looked for where the voice had come from. It better not have been the Hood. That was the last thing he needed. Of course that would be his profile. Ruin anything happy. Looking around the beach he saw no one. He was hearing things. This was a dream, it was just him and the ocean.

"Alan, sweetie. Come to me on the beach," he heard the voice say again.

Turning around as quick as he could he spotted a glowing figure on the beach before him. Cautiously making his way to the beach he paused before the figure, as the bright sun made it impossible to see the figure's face.

"Relax, Alan. It's only me. I'm here to give you some reassurance and some guidance," the female voice stated, taking his hand.

Alan stared at the figure curious. As the figure stepped forward grasping his hand he was now able to see the person's face. "M-mom?" he stuttered in shock.

"Yes, baby. It's me. I'm here for you. You've been through so much and I've heard your pleas at night."

Alan stared at his mother's shimmering figure. Was she really before him? Was he really having this dream? "I've heard your father's pleas to help you and I've heard the pleas from your brothers as well. You have suffered so much over the last few months and I'm so sorry for that."

"It wasn't your fault. You didn't have anything to do with it," the teenager stated.

Lucy smiled at her youngest son. "You've grown up so much," she said, cupping his face. "Follow me, Alan. I need to remind you of something."

Obeying, the youngster followed her as she walked along the sand. "A few years ago, you asked me to give you something. It was right after Gordon's hydrofoil accident. Do you remember what it was?"

Alan thought back to that horrible time. In all reality he never wanted to relive that time. He had thought he was going to lose his brother. Looking up at his mother's baby blue eyes he shook his head. "I had asked you to give me the strength to get through what was happening. At the time I didn't think I had the power to be strong for Dad and everyone else when everything seemed hopeless."

"After you had asked me you had spoken to someone else, correct? After that did you find strength?"

"Yes, abiding strength. You had answered my prayers."

"You see, Alan. I didn't give you the strength you needed. You already had it inside you. You just needed someone to talk to. The reassurance of relieving your thoughts to me had helped you find the hidden strength. What you're going through now is no different," the woman stated, brushing a piece of blonde hair away from Alan's face.

"What do you mean?"

Lucy smiled, taking both of her son's hands in hers. "Sweetie, no matter how dismal everything seems right now nothing has changed. You are still the same old spit fire that all of us have known. You still have that strength inside you. You are stronger than this man, Alan."

"Mom, I know it's your job to say that, but how can you be so sure? I thought I was stronger than the Hood and look where it landed me," Alan huffed.

"I know my son and I know myself. You have the same determination as me and you are just as stubborn as your father and I as well. I've witnessed some amazing actions out of you, Alan. You have to remember your strongest moments. Remember the strength you felt rescuing that man out of fire yesterday. Those kinds of moments are always with you and you will always carry that strength. You had the strength to get through the last four months, and you still have that inside you. No matter how hopeless things may seem you are not alone. I'm always with you, Alan. You will always have me in your heart and you also have your father and your brothers surrounding you. Don't be afraid to confide in them. They love you so much."

Alan smiled at the notion of her always being with her. When he was 8 years old Scott had told him the same thing. "You really think I have the strength to win this battle?"

"You've always had the strength. That's what makes the Tracys so unstoppable. We're strong, motivated, stubborn, and inspired by greatness. Nothing can stop this family. Even after my death you have all prospered. Nothing will bring this family down."

"We all miss you so much, Mom. I wish you were there with us at this time," Alan said with sad eyes, looking out at the ocean.

"I'm still with you, honey. I may not be there physically but I'm with all of you. You can think of me as your guardian angel," she said with a beautiful smile. Looking at her son affectionately she hugged him. "It is time for me to go now, Alan."

"NO! I don't want you to go. I want to stay with you like this forever," he said holding her tight. Being with here meant no pain or suffering. He felt peace and assurance.

"I know you do sweetie but you can't. I am with you at all times, never forget that," she said as she cupped his face again. Reaching down to his hands, she squeezed them firmly. Stepping backwards, she smiled. "Remember you are strong, Alan. Soon you will find the way that will help you." Turning around she walked away from him, a bright light encircling her like before. "Remember I'm with you at all times and I love you Alan Shepard Tracy," she spoke and quickly vanished from his sight.

"MOM!" Alan screamed as he sat upright in his bed. Taking a few moments as his mind tried to register the sudden darkness that surrounded him he soon realized was awake in his room. Sighing he laid back down on the bed. Looking at the clock he realized he had been asleep for nearly two hours. One good thing was his headache had pretty much gone away. He had to remember to thank Kyrano the next time he saw him.

Turning over on his left side he looked at the portrait of his mother that sat on his nightstand. Picking it up he smiled at it. The frame was big enough to hold two pictures. One was of his mother by herself and another was of her holding him when he was nearly 2 years old. Leaning up against his head board he remembered his dream. Had she really been there? If she wasn't then why could he still feel her touch? Stroking the two pictures with his finger he paused at the one of her by herself. Her smile shined back at him. He had been told the picture had been taken a few months after the birth of Scott. Her blonde hair shimmered in the sun and her features seemed angelic. The woman he had seen in his dream looked the same. Even on Earth she was like an angel, he thought. You can think of me as your guardian angel. Those were her own words. Was she right? Did he really have the strength within him to help fight this new threat? He hoped so, otherwise they were hopeless.

Thinking back over the last few months he couldn't believe how much he had changed. His mother had even said he had grown up. He had given his family so much trouble over the years and for what? So he could be understood and heard. He had believed for so long that they didn't believe in him. How could he have been so naive? All they had wanted was to protect him. Why couldn't he have seen that? All he had cared about was being a Thunderbird and to hell with everything else. He was such an idiot. I bet you wouldn't have ever acted like this Mom, he thought.

Placing the picture frame back in its respectful place he slowly stood up from the bed. Waiting a few moments for his brain to catch up with his body he slowly made his way out of his room. Walking down the hallway he was surprised he hadn't seen anyone. It was a little past 7 o'clock and at this time dinner was usually about over. Why hadn't anyone woken him up? Of course to be completely honest food was the last thing he wanted to think about. Rounding the corner that led to the walkway of the kitchen he was caught off guard as he bumped into Tintin.

"Alan! You're up!" she said quickly.

"Yeah, I figured I had slept enough for all of us," he said with a smile.

"How are you feeling? Did my father's herbal drink help?"

"My headache is almost gone thanks to your father. Tell him thank you for me. I haven't slept that well in a long time."

"I'm glad that it helped. I have to go get something for my father out of the storage room. Do you want to come with?" she said her brown eyes beaming back at him.

"Actually if it's okay with you I want to see if my Dad has found out any news on this new threat. Is that okay?" he asked.

"Of course. I'll see you later," Tintin responded and made her way to the storage room.

Watching her walk away he smiled. A few months ago a conversation like that between them would have never happened. Facing the direction of the kitchen he made his way down the walkway. Reaching the bottom he noticed his brothers still sat at the dinner table, but his father was no where in sight.

"Alan!" Gordon piped at seeing his little brother descend down the walkway. At the mention of his name both Scott and Virgil turned around to see him.

"You feeling better?" Scott asked as the teen sat down next to him.

"A little. Thanks to Kyrano's herbal remedy the headache is almost gone. Where's Dad?"

"He went into his office to talk to John and Lady P. You think he found anything out?" Virgil stated, leaning back in his chair.

"I don't know. John is pretty good at that sort of thing but it will all depend on how smart this guy is. As much as I hate to admit it he really does seem to be one step ahead of us," Scott commented.

"Would you like your dinner, Alan. I saved it back for you," Onaha said, walking up behind him.

"Actually no, but thank you for doing that. Food just doesn't sound that great right now," Alan stated, giving her an appreciative smile.

"If you change your mind let me know. You really shouldn't go without food, but in your situation I understand," stated the woman and walked back into the kitchen.

"Situation," Alan restated. "I really wouldn't say that."

"Come on, Al. Your brain was nearly pulverized by a maniac today, giving you a killer headache. Needless to say this creep can bother you at any time. What else would you call it?" Gordon spoke, eyeing the teen.

"Don't you think I already know that. Trust me if there was a way I could keep him out of my head I would but I have no choice. I guess you could say I'm along for the ride whether I won't to come aboard or not. One way or another I'm going to find a way to stop him so I will have some peace and our family will have some peace," Alan stated, meeting each of his brothers faces.

"Alan we already discussed this," Gordon reminded.

"Yeah, and I already told you that I'm willing to do what I have to do for the sake of this family. The Hood already hurt this family. He nearly killed all of you and I'm not going to let it happen again by someone else under my watch," Alan said sternly.

"Wait. Do you blame yourself for what happened with the Hood, Alan? There was nothing you could have done. Please tell me you don't blame yourself," Scott pleaded. Alan didn't respond. Suddenly the table seemed quite interesting.

"Alan! You've got to be kidding. How can you blame yourself?" Virgil asked, sharing shocked looks with Gordon and Scott.

"Look, I don't want to talk about it okay. What happened is done. What I said is true and I will stand by my word no matter what."

"Alan, don't shut us out. We believe that you will keep to your word. You already took one for the team four months ago. You ended up getting hurt in the process but the Hood is gone thanks to you, Alan. You saved our lives and you saved Dad and Lady Penelope. What more could you have done?" Scott reasoned.

Alan sighed. Placing his elbows on the table he rested his head in his hands. Taking a deep breath he looked at each of his brothers. "You really want to know why I blame myself. I blame myself because I was too busy making everyone else's lives miserable while you were all focusing on the real world and I was being childish. I blame myself because I distracted Dad when he could have noticed a possible intruder but no I had to have another argument with him. It was too important for me to argue with him than to tell him about the substance on Thunderbird 1's nose cone. I blame myself because I allowed someone to enter our home and hurt our family. I was out on the beach that day and I was too wrapped up in my own world to even notice the Hood was right outside our doorstep. I could have stopped the missile from hitting Thunderbird 5 and hurting John and I could have stopped all of you from almost dying that day. I blame myself because I was too selfish to realize how lucky I was until it took that one freak accident to happen. So you see it was my fault. I distracted all of you from seeing what was really happening and I allowed the Hood to sneak up on us like he did. Just like now," Alan said getting up from his chair and walking away from the trio slightly, trying to regain some of his emotions. He couldn't believe he hadn't seen it before. He was distracting them again.

"Alan," Scott pleaded. "Don't do this."

"No. It was my fault then and it's my fault now that this man has capitalized on us. I distracted you for the last four months and during the last four months this man was able to insert his plans," the teen reasoned. Shaking his head he walked over to the couch. How could I have been so stupid to have been blind to this. It was happening again. Whatever his mother had said didn't matter. He may have strength but it didn't matter because his recklessness was what was causing his family grief.

Gordon stood up from the table and walked over to Alan, joining him on the couch. "Alan, how can you say that? None of this is your fault."

Alan just shook his head. "How can you say it's not? I was acting like a child while the rest of you have risked your lives and all I've been worrying about is how to get out of school the fastest and how to become a Thunderbird. I don't deserve to be a Thunderbird."

Scott, Virgil and Gordon each met each other's worried looks. How could they explain to him that what was happening wasn't his fault. They knew the accident at the Bank of London with the Hood had changed him, but had it really affected him this much? The Alan before them was much more mature but he was looking at things all wrong.

"Alan, you deserve to be a Thunderbird as much as we do. If you are rationalizing this off of your actions then don't. You're a teenager. Emotions are flaring and people say the wrong things but you didn't distract any of us, Alan. Out of all of us you've had the hardest time growing up. Mom died when you were very young and all you've had to hold onto about her is what we've told you. Without Mom around things changed a lot and as you've gotten older you've seen International Rescue expand. With the shadow of being really young and watching us all go out on these really cool missions had to be hard on you. You reacted the only way that you knew how," Virgil stated, sitting next to Gordon.

"You're just saying that to make me feel better but deep down you know I'm right. I should have seen what I was doing. Instead I was too selfish and didn't let you all care for our family's needs and the needs of others. Numerous people lost their lives in the disasters that happened that day because the Thunderbirds couldn't respond to them, and that is my fault."

"Alan. Your brothers are right. What you are saying is not true," Jeff said as he stepped off the walkway. He had heard everything Alan had said and the words that had left his youngest son's mouth broke his heart. How could he blame himself for things that he had no control over? Was this what he meant by causing them so much grief over the last couple of months?

"Dad! How long have you been standing there?" Gordon asked.

"Long enough," was the simple answer. Alan didn't even bother looking up at his father. He knew what he was going to say. "Alan, what you are saying makes no sense. The Hood did catch us off guard but it wasn't because of you. I never expected someone to attack us. None of us did."

"That may be the case, but you still can't deny that I was being childish. I made everyone's lives a living hell. Especially yours, Dad."

"You're a teenager, Alan. I had rough stages with all of your brothers, and you are no different. Your actions didn't distract me or your brothers. Virgil was right. You have had it the hardest growing up. You've always been in your brother's shadows and when I started International Rescue you were really young so that also pulled at you," Jeff said, sitting next to him on the couch. "Alan, you've been through a lot at your age but look at how you have prospered. The fact that you've realized how you were acting shows that you have matured. You deserve everything this family has to offer you and that includes being a Thunderbird. Do you see what we are saying? What happened to this family a few months ago was never your fault and what's happening now isn't your fault either."

Alan stared at the table in front of him. Were they all right? "I understand what you are saying, but of part of me still feels responsible."

"Is there anything else we can say to make you think different?" Scott asked, sitting on the arm of the couch next to Jeff. He received no response from the teen as Alan sat pondering his thoughts.

"Alan, there really was nothing you could have done. If you blame yourself for what happened with the Hood then he will just be getting what he wants. He wanted us to pay for his so called "revenge" and you showed him that this family was stronger than that. Where is that spit fire we all know? That spit fire wouldn't let thoughts like these bring him down. You are a good person Alan and you are just as strong and as stubborn as the rest of us. There is no way you could have been at fault for what has happened over the last few months," Gordon said with a smile.

Alan smirked at one of his nicknames. His temper did have a tendency to get the best of him. What surprised him the most were the word that had come out of Gordon's mouth. Most of the words his brother had said were the words his mother had told him in his dream. Was she speaking through him now, reminding him of his strength? Maybe he was being foolish. "I actually do believe you guys. Even though I still feel a little responsible, you are right. If I believe I had something to do with this than he would win. I just have to remember I'm stronger than them, right? With strength we will all get through this."

Everyone smiled. "Yes. You've conquered a lot over the last few months, we all have. Without strength and faith you wouldn't have made it as far as you have, Alan," Jeff said, hugging his son. Before both of them knew it Scott, Virgil and Gordon had joined them in hugging the youngest Tracy.

Jeff couldn't believe how much Alan had changed. John was right. The accident had really changed his son. He just hoped he wasn't too deeply affected by this new threat. This man was torturing his youngest son and there was nothing he could do about it. He just prayed that they would all get through what was to come next in one piece. The next course of action was in the hands of what they found out tonight.

TBC...

Well our little Alan is growing up...man that kid is going through a lot. So I tried my best at giving a little of the threat away but I don't know if it worked out right. Do you have a guess yet to who this mystery person is. Lets just say I gave you a huge hint in this chapter but things aren't as they seem. Yeah, think about that one! Things aren't as black and white as they seem.

Oh by the way, I'm trying to work with the whole TinTin and Alan relationship and let's just say it isn't easy but you'll get to see where it goes. Any suggestions on where you would like to see it end up let me know.

Things get even more interesting in the next chapter. The pot began to stir in this chapter but what happens after it has been stirred is quite shocking. See ya next chapter...tehe, don't shoot me!!!! (Hides under rock)