Chapter 10: The Second Attack

Jared opened his eyes, sunlight streaming in through the curtains. It took him awhile before he remembered the previous day's events. He quickly got dressed and headed downstairs.

"Good morning," Caleb said as soon as he saw his brother coming down.

"Morning," Jared replied, yawning. He glanced at the kitchen clock. It said 9:00. Perfect, he thought. I won't be late for tennis practice after all. "What are you doing today?" he asked.

Caleb, reading the morning paper, said "Going out with Sarah" without looking up.

"I was thinking, maybe you should call the rest and let them know I've learned how to use that power. We should do this as quickly as possible, now that they've all ascended as well. Chase is up to no good, and with the ageing factor gone, we're better positioned to beat him," Jared said.

This time, Caleb stopped reading the paper and looked up. "You're too tired. Let's give it a few days, okay?"

"No, Caleb. Chase is going to attack again, I know it. And don't forget he has his father's powers too. The binding reduced your powers, and now you're not as strong as Chase anymore. You'll need the rest to help you."

"I realize that, but I'm not risking your life. You were so worn out yesterday you fell asleep so quickly. I know Chase is going to do something, but we can't do anything until you rest."

There was a hint of finality in his voice, and Jared decided not to pursue it further. He finished his breakfast, grabbed his stuff and headed out for practice.

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Upon arriving at the courts, Jared headed to the changing room to change and get ready.

When he was finally done, he could hear his coach saying "Hurry up, Jared!" and proceeded to walk faster.

He reached the courts to find his teammates running the length of the court. He joined the line, and began the day's training.

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Four hours later, Jared walked towards the changing room again. As he changed into clean attire and kept his equipment in his bag, the door shut with a slam. Jared looked up, and saw Chase Collins standing a few feet away, smiling.

Without a word, Chase sent a blast of energy at Jared which sent him flying. Jared stood up but before he could do anything he felt Chase's power envelop him, then he was flung to the other side of the room.

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Not too far away from the courts, Caleb was having lunch with Sarah. After they were done, he paid the bills, and they walked to the car hand in hand. Before they entered, he heard the winds blow again, and this time, it was "Help Jared!"

"Get in the car. I'll explain on the way," Caleb said as he entered his car. He started the engine and sped off towards the tennis courts.

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Moaning in pain as he tried to get up, Jared was once again hit by Chase's power. He was pushed to the wall, his hands spread to the sides. Chase kept him there, and walked towards Jared, laughing.

"Did you really think that I would've lost to a child who hasn't ascended yet? It was just a trick to make you want to learn to heal. Now that you have, you're going to do me a little favour."

Jared knew what that favour was, and knew what must be done. He smiled at Chase, and said "and did you really think I didn't know you wanted me to help you? Of course, now that you've treated me so harshly I'm reconsidering."

There was a hint of anger in Chase's expression before he calmed himself. "You're under my powers, Jared, and none of the other Sons are here," he said as he pushed Jared to the corner, hard. "And you're going to stop me from ageing."

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Caleb stopped the car and ran towards the courts. He saw that they were empty, and presumed that Jared would be in the changing room, if he's there at all. He pushed the door, but it refused to open. Jared must be in there, he thought as he used his powers to break the door open.

As he entered he saw Chase with his hands lifted, standing next to Jared, who was enveloped in Chase's power, unable to move. Chase chuckled when he saw who entered.

"Caleb, Caleb. Always the hero. But this time, you're a little too late," he said, and vanished, taking Jared along with him.