This is for Nat :) Enjoy this ultra long chapter... and I assure you, there is more after this one :O... somehow! I did go a little mad... a little. The amount of times I've wanted to end it and upload a chapter was incredible... but I ploughed on. I've put breaks throughout...Nat... you wanted a longer chapter, so I scaled it up and gave you one :) Please drop a review... this one took me ages and it would be a real spirit boost :) Since I am currently recovering from hand cramp. I did write half of this before, but my computer went on a murderous rampage and deleted it, so I had to start again... oh the annoyance. Anyway... enjoy :) xxx PS... I wrot most of this in a day. xx
Rerouted Feelings
Three weeks had passed since Skyheed and Ava had been rescued from the Aeropan Barracks. Those three weeks had flown by. Ava had moved into the Palace with Skyheed and once he had got his energy back, he began to build up his Eco again. Ava had noticed that Skyheed was spending more and more time on the top of the Palace, at the Dark Eco Fountain. Being up there was the perfect place in which to sit quietly and build on your Eco powers; it was quiet and the Eco coming from the fountain had been filtered and was in its pure state, therefore was more powerful than its raw state. This concerned Ava, as Gol had told her; smaller amounts of Eco are more powerful than large amounts when used properly.
Ava had also observed a change in Skyheed's temperaments and mannerisms. Before... he use to be soft and caring, would sit and talk with her for hours and they would lay and stare at the stars while he ran his fingers through her hair. But now... his temper was short and the smallest of imperfections annoyed him. He was withdrawn during dinner and at most other times in the day and according to the Chancellor, he hadn't been attending the council meetings. Instead, he had been up to the Eco Fountain, regaining his power and probably a lot more on top of that. What a misconception.
Ava lay awake in bed. Skyheed hadn't been around all day and he certainly wasn't there at five minutes past midnight. Ava swore that the clock hadn't moved for the past hour or so. So many thoughts were going through her head that it rendered her sleepless. Surely he hadn't been messing about with Eco all day! She turned over an sighed. It was all going so well. Skyheed had recovered quite quickly from his death experience and was making good progress gaining his strength again... then this... Ava was convinced Skyheed was addicted to the Eco and obviously needed helping, but with the nasty temperament he had lately, she didn't want to approach him with such statements.
Ava was finally drifting off to sleep when she heard the door to their quarters open and then close rather harshly. Sounds like something didn't go well... Ava was worrying. She had been afraid of Skyheed since he had been getting short tempered. There was some rustling as Skyheed slid off his boots and took his shirt off. After getting ready for bed, he shuffled over and got in. Ava stayed still until she heard him sigh and turn over to face her. She didn't want him to realise she was worrying in case he did something... Ava tried to act normal, so she moved closer to him and brush her hand up his chest, resting her head just below his chin. He smelt like sweat and pure eco. Must have been channelling all day... Unlike he usually did, Skyheed did not pull Ava closer to him, instead he shuffled and turned over; back now to Ava. Don't be afraid... Ava shuffled closer to Skyheed and wrapped her arm around him, so her hand was placed on the centre of his chest. He sighed and held it before sitting up and getting back out of bed.
"What's wrong?" Ava asked, sympathetically.
"Nothing that concerns you..." Skyheed snapped, walking out of the room. Ava's heart sank. Why was he being like this if he wanted me so much? She just couldn't understand. Maybe it wasn't meant to be... Maybe he had a change of heart...
Ava felt sick at the thought and there was no way she was going to sleep at all tonight. So, swinging her legs over the side of the bed she picked up the phone.
"Hello?" Said a voice on the other side of the line in a very sleepy, very agitated state.
"Hi, Natla." Ava muttered, pulling her legs up to her chest.
"AVA? Oh my, how are you?" She shouted down the phone. Natla was one of Ava's closer friends when down at the Hangar and they shared an apartment at one point for a few weeks.
"Well... it's a bit of a long story..." Ava mumbled, looking towards the door, hoping that Skyheed would walk in, say sorry and be in a better mood. Of course it didn't happen.
"I have all night, babe." She laughed, knowing that she was now wide awake and there was no way that she would go back to sleep knowing that one of her best friends is in some sort of distress.
"Well, everything has been great..." she trailed off.
"Well, why do you sound so... off then?" Natla asked, rustling around.
"Because..." she paused, "He's changed. Something doesn't seem right. He's been off towards me and is always withdrawn and he is spending way too much time up at the Eco Fountain." Ava's tone was one of distress.
"Oh, Ava. Have you asked what's wrong?" Everyone know that Skyheed was with Ava, it's just nobody knew who she was, except for those closest to her and of course those who worked in the palace.
"I'm scared to..." There was a silence and then Natla spoke.
"Has he said something to you? Because if he has, it doesn't matter if he's the Duke of..."
"Natla." Ava butted in. "Don't. He didn't do anything... I suppose..."
"Ava? What happened?" Natla sounded concerned.
"Nothing major. He's not himself, so I'm not blaming him for anything. I tried to cuddle up to him and I asked him if he was alright, but he got out of bed and said that it didn't concern me... Nothing major!" Ava laughed a laugh that was one made during awkward situations.
"Are you alright?" Natla asked, "You can come and stay with me if you like... let him get on with it. He'll soon see how much he misses you." Ava didn't reply, she was quietly crying. "Tell you what, I'll meet you outside the Wayward Vesper in about ten minutes, pack what you need."
"Okay..." Ava put the phone down and pulled her suitcase from under the bed. Wiping her eyes, she padded into the wardrobe and brushed passed Skyheed's jackets. Everything in there was well sorted, so it was easy to find what she needed. Draws housed underwear and the far railings had her clothes and pyjamas. Throwing what was necessary into the suitcase, she herself put some clothes on and threw on one of Skyheed's jackets, since one in which she was having tailor made in the Aeropa style still had not been finished. After one last look around the room, she let quietly and made her way, untraced, through the palace and out into the city.
By the time Ava arrived outside the Wayward Vesper, Natla was already there. She was stood, leant up against the wall to the bar and tapping away on her mobile phone. It wasn't long before she noticed Ava walking closer to her and throwing her phone into her bag, she dashed over and gave her a hug. Smiling, they walked together back to Natla's apartment; nothing was said on the journey.
"What are you going to do?" Natla asked Ava, handing her a cup of tea. Both of them were sat in Natla's lounge and the TV was on some sort of chat show. Considering it was now 2am, there was always something on the TV, thankfully for them both.
"I don't know..." Ava sighed, sipping some of her tea, "Suppose all I can do is see what happens."
"Yes... I guess so. Well, don't stay up to late." Natla joked, walking into her room to go back to sleep. Ava smiled a reply and sipped some more of her tea. I should really be getting to bed. After washing up her mug, Ava padded into the spare bedroom and changed. She had only spend a few weeks in the Palace, but it had already felt like home. Now she wasn't there... she felt homesick, but as homesick as she was, she didn't want to go back to the suddenly unloving Skyheed. Something had definitely changed.
Morning... which was already present when she went to bed, had awoke her with some sudden sunshine blaring through the bedroom window. Jumping into bed at 2am was never a good idea and forgetting to close the curtains made the situation all the more annoying. On the bright side, Ava had slept rather well. There was no waiting until stupid-o-clock for Skyheed to come in before she could get to sleep and there were no sudden beeping noises signalling that there was something wrong. Smiling to herself, but feeling hurt inside, Ava but on a brave face and headed out into the Lounge, where she was not just met by Natla... but Chancellor Ruskin also.
Ava made a few questioning looks, and looked around before sitting next to Natla.
"Ava..." The Chancellor started, "I need some help."
"Why?" Ava asked, leaning back into the sofa, "And how did you find me?"
"Once it was obvious you weren't around... I rang a few of your friends and well, here I am. As for why... Skyheed's gone mad on power and he needs help. I was wondering if you could talk to him? If he's going to listen to anyone it's going to be you." The Chancellor stood up and looked out of the window, towards the palace. Ava stayed quiet, thinking about everything that happened last night.
"Alright." She said, finally breaking the silence. After all, she loved him and that certainly couldn't be helped. What could have been helped on the other hand was the fact that Natla was wearing embarrassingly pink bunny slippers.
"Brilliant." The Chancellor spoke, standing up. "He's currently at the Eco Fountain... well, thats where I left him." Ava nodded and followed the Chancellor out of the door and up the street.
They neared the Palace, and once through the main foyer, the Chancellor turned to face Ava.
"So, why did you leave?" He asked, turning a corner.
"He's changed." Ava muttered.
"I know..." It seemed that the Chancellor had also noticed the sudden change in Skyheed, "He's been withdrawn from the council meetings and I haven't seen him around the Palace like usual. He's been spending way too much time up at the Eco Fountain; sure he needed to build his strength back again, but this is taking it too far. I'm afraid that he's going to make himself ill..." Once the Chancellor had finished his sentence, they had arrived at the stone lift in which lead up to the Eco Fountain. There was a mere nod from Ava, as she stepped onto the lift and the doors closed. It took around three minutes to get to the top, and during that time she admired the carved Aeropan symbol on the stone lift itself.
The lift made no jolt as it reached the top and opened. Ava had only been up here once before; when she had first moved into the Palace. She and Skyheed spend a romantic night under the stars, talking about the future and past alike, reminiscing about their childhoods and of course messing around with a bit of Eco. Now on the other hand, the atmosphere was different. There seemed to be a definite uncomfortable feeling in the air and the sky had started to go very dark above. Ava cautiously stepped out of the lift and recoiled back. With their back to her was a monster. Whatever or whoever it was, was at least eight foot high and had a deep purple skin colour; veins were bulging around its neck. Ava's heart was beating so much she was afraid it was going to leap out of her chest, but nothing prepared it for what soon became apparent. As the monster turned around, it was clear who it was. With deep black eyes and canine teeth that could rival that of a dog... was Skyheed... Or what was Skyheed. His Dark Eco control was always good, but this had got out of hand. He had turned himself into a monster. Scared at what she saw... and the rumours surrounding Dark Eco in her head... Ava backed off into someone.
Chancellor Ruskin was stood behind her, with a face of disappointment on his face.
"My Duke!" He shouted, getting the beast to turn around and stare at him straight in the eyes. The Chancellor walked forward, towards Skyheed and then stopped. We were close to the edge of the balcony, and from up there you could see the entire city which would have been a great sight to behold if it wasn't for the current happenings.
"Chancellor." Skyheed spoke. His voice was raspy and much deeper than before.
"This has gone too far!" Ruskin shouted, looking back at Ava; who was looking terrified.
"Of course you would say that Chancellor. We don't have enough Dark Eco! The more we have the stronger we will be! Don't you understand?" He was really beginning to scare Ava, who was seriously contemplating running away, but she couldn't turn her back on him...
"Sir. You cannot do this! It will be our downfall!" As he said that, Skyheed seemed to go into some sort of anger frenzy. Charging up what seemed to be an Eco-Sphere in his hands, Skyheed shot it at Ruskin, who stumbled backwards from the force and over the edge of the balcony.
"SKYHEED?" Ava shouted, getting the monsters attention. The very second that Skyheed's blackened and cold eyes met Ava's soft, innocent ones she felt herself become overwhelmed with fear and ran. The lift couldn't of moved any quicker and once it got to the bottom, she dashed out and made her way back to Natla's, tears streaming down her cheeks. As she made it to the streets close to Natla's apartment, there was a loud explosion. Stumbling, Ava turned around and looked up. Large spheres of Dark Eco were being shot from the Fountain Balcony and smashing into buildings, causing explosions and fire. Ava was horrified... Why was he doing this! She ran away from a sudden explosion and dodged a few flames before she finally came to the street in which Natla resided on.
"Ava... What's going on?" Natla cried out, running over to Ava.
"Skyheed's gone mad on power!" She exclaimed at the same time of another loud explosion. There were medics and doctors running all over the city and Ava's mind wandered to Ruskin.
"Well, I suppose we should just stay here and hope we don't get bombed." Natla sat down and looked worriedly out of the window closest to her. It's going to be a long night...
Neither of them slept very well, as they were out on the street helping the injured out of fallen buildings and putting out some of the smaller fires. Who could sleep in such circumstances anyway? Once back inside the surprisingly standing apartment, both women fell backward onto the sofa, utterly exhausted. It wasn't long though before something interrupted their peaceful slumber; the telephone. Ava sighed and crawled across the floor to it.
"Hello?" She answered, yawning.
"Ava?" Said a croaky voice of a man she felt like she knew.
"Ruskin?"
"Yes, now Ava, I need you to come to the Hospital... or what's standing. I need to talk to you." There was no need for further interaction, so both put the phone down. How the hell was she going to get to the Hospital? The theatre building had fallen down and was blocking most access, any other way around was being policed for emergencies only.
Ava looked over at the sleeping Natla and decided that it was best to leave her sleeping, even if it was dangerous. Putting on a sturdier pair of boots and a tighter fitting black jacket, Ava walked back out onto the street and towards the closest Hangar. She had started her career in this very one, its where it all begun all those years ago. Now, it was deserted and most of the planes were not in working order, but Ava was sure that she left something here... and it wasn't the kind of thing you would throw away without wanting to know what it was. So, she walked into the store room and turned on the light, which flickered a few times before gaining enough power to turn on.
Inside the store room were many boxes filled with old plane parts and god knows what else. But in the far corner, as she had suspected, was something she had made when she was much younger; a glider, built to monk designs. Smiling, she walked over and picked it up. There were a few tears in the wings but it would still work for what she wanted it for.
Back outside, she climbed to the top of a rather large pile of rubble and strapped the glider to her back, readying herself. One she was ready, she leapt from the pile of rubble and caught a stream of air with the canvas wings of the glider. She gained height quite easily and sailed over the top of the ruined theatre and road blocks. She hadn't done this for so long, but it all came flooding back. Once the Hospital was in sight, she pulled a dive and landed outside, leaving the glider propped up against a wall.
The Hospital was in two halves. It had been cut straight down the middle by a falling tower and made getting from wing to wing rather difficult. Ava walked into the only door she could see and was greeted by a friendly, but frustrated looking nurse.
"Can I help you, miss?" She asked, wiping the sweat from her brow.
"I'm looking for the Chancellor." She said, looking around. Ava was pointed in a vague direction before the nurse rushed off to greet another patient. There weren't as many people in the Hospital as Ava first thought there would be but that thought dissolved once she lay her eyes on a side room with 'Chancellor Ruskin' written on a plaque mounted on the door.
Ava knocked on the door and walked in, where she lay eyes on a very bandaged looking Chancellor. His arms were pretty much the only thing that didn't appear to be in bandages; the rest of him being either casted or bruised, which didn't look right with his skinny body shape.
"Chancellor?" She asked, walking over and sitting on the side of his bed.
"Ah, Ava." He said, opening his eyes.
"How are you feeling?" Ava smiled.
"Better than I was. Now, enough with the small talk. Scouts have told us that Skyheed has moved from the Palace and headed towards the Eco Core." The Chancellor started, before being suddenly interrupted by Ava.
"What? But... He'll kill himself if he carries on this way... again." She cupped her head in her hands and continued to listen to Ruskin, not intending to interrupt this time.
"Yes, I know. But that is the least of our worries at the moment, as harsh as it sounds. Aeropa is falling, Ava, and someone is needed to lead in rebuilding the city; to bring it back to its high status. I cannot do this Ava, apart from being currently bedridden, I am merely a Chancellor, I can only advise on running a City, but cannot do it myself."
"What are you getting at, Ruskin?" Ava asked, lifting her head from its previous position.
"Ava, you are technically the next heir to the throne. Skyheed's step-brother died many years ago, when he ran the city. Sadly, he died during a sky battle with pirates and his body was never found. In which case, Skyheed took over, being the only family left, even if he was only sixteen years of age. Now, since you are with the Duke, it is your duty to take the reins in such times." Hearing such things, Ava practically passed out.
"I don't mean to be rude, Chancellor, but I cant run a city!" Ava stood up and looked surprised.
"You won't be alone, Ava. The council will be behind you. Common sense will be your strength... your a smart girl, Ava, I have faith in you. " The Chancellor coughed, before looking up towards Ava, who was looking out of the window at the burning Aeropa. Nothing pained her more than seeing the place where she grew up burn under Eco fires along with people and their belongings.
"Alright, Ruskin. I will, but I'm going to need a lot of help." She turned around and smiled. The Chancellor looked somewhat relieved.
"Now, Ava. First thing's first. Go back to Natla's and get her to come to the Palace with you. I'll meet you there. I'm sure a friend in the rankings would help." She nodded and proceeded to walk back out of the Hospital and out to the Glider. It would be much easier to get into the Palace. Ruskin would obviously be on crutches, but his knowledge on running a city was valuable. What a day it was turning out to be.
Once Ava had explained the fact that she was now in charge to Aeropa to Natla and that she needed all the help she needed, both of them set off for the Palace, where they were to oversee everything that was going to happen to get Aeropa back online and moving smoothly. Ruskin was going to take some time to fully heal. After all, he did fall from the balcony and land atop a roof. Most of him broke upon impact but thankfully for the advanced Eco Technology in Aeropa, he was fixed quite quickly. Look at Skyheed, he died and he's alright... kind of.
The Palace was practically lifeless, unlike before. There were no soldiers walking around, nor were there noblemen. It felt so strange, so empty, so... not like home. It was horrible not to see all the enthusiastic people; asking how you were or if you needed help with anything under the sun, but there was no time to ponder on such feelings. Ava had a city to lead and rebuild. A few flights of stairs later and both women were outside the main hall; where most of the important decisions were made for Aeropa and the Council took place. It too was as deserted as the rest of the palace.
Pushing the doors open, Ava and Natla were greeted by a lone council member who was sat upon a chair facing a large window. Acknowledging our footsteps, he turned around and smiled a depressive smile. His feelings seemed to give out what the entire council wee feeling, and indeed the city too... hope.
"Well, lets not delay!" A voice said from behind Natla. She moved out of the way and much to Ava's surprise, Chancellor Ruskin hobbled past.
"Chancellor, I wasn't expecting you until later on." The other council member said, standing from his seat. He swiftly made his way towards the growing gathering and folded his arms.
"Yes, well... Things need to be done, and young Ava here can't do this on her own." He smiled at her and adjusted his crutches. "Assemble the council, we need to look over the situation in more detail." The Chancellor didn't have to say it twice; the Other council member swiftly moved out of the door and in a spontaneous direction. "Natla, it's nice to see you again. It appears Ava has chosen you to be in her close council."
"Yeh, I guess so." Natla mumbled, still in awe at the sheer size and royal decoration of the hall they were in. Ava smiled at her. It was all just about setting in... all becoming real in her mind. How she was going to manage it she didn't know but what she did know was that inside that black heart of Skyheed's, he obviously felt something, at least at some point. If he didn't then surely he wouldn't of wrote down that she was to take over if anything happened to him? Whatever was going on in his head... somewhere he knew something...
"What is this about, Chancellor? This... girl... has no right to the throne. Such a commoner has no idea what it takes to run such a vast and technological city." The cocky, short man spoke, standing from his seat in the council and pacing in an intimidating and powerful way. "... and besides... the council could cope on its own." There was a sudden mumble of talk between the council members; each stating their opinions on what was just said. Ruskin would of stood up and protested but his current state of health prevented him on doing so. Instead he spoke slightly louder than usual in order to be heard;
"I disagree, Mason. The city cannot stand without a definite leader... you know that."
"We cannot neglect Aeropa... Such an insignificant citizen could not possibly sustain a city of this depth..." Another man spoke, standing next to this man named Mason. There was obviously a strong allegiance between them and it was easy to see.
"Poppycock!" The Chancellor exclaimed, frowning. "I believe Miss Ava to be one of the most dedicated and level minded people I know. Sure, she isn't trained in etiquette or formal attributes but she is one of the most sensible and understanding people I have had the pleasure to meet." He smiled towards Ava, who was sat next to Natla. Both looked as if they were locked into an awkward situation, which they were.
"You seem awfully defensive, Chancellor. Are you hiding something?" Mason asked, shooting Ruskin a devilish grin. There was more muttering amongst the other council members and Ruskin felt as if he was loosing the battle.
"I am not hiding any information. Mason, your sudden hatred towards Ava concerns me, is it in fact you who are deciding to hide something?" There was an awkward silence between the council as Mason thought of something to say. Ava could almost see cogs turning around in his head while she smirked.
"I, Chancellor, wouldn't dare hide anything from the council." He sat back down and adopted a posture which conveyed cockiness.
"Then why, Mason..." Ruskin began with venom in his voice; "... Have you not told the council that the Duke himself wrote that should anything happen to him, young Ava here is to be supported in her taking of Aeropa until the time he is able to retake the reins." A sense of satisfaction obviously swept its way through Ruskin's broken and bruised body as a smile extended itself over his face. This was probably the first time Ava had ever seen Ruskin smile in such a way.
Natla nudged Ava and motioned to look towards the council member they now knew as Mason. He was sat well and truly in his chair looking like he had been put well into his place. Other council members were looking towards Ruskin, in the hope that he would explain his evidence further and of course, Ruskin did.
"Well, my friends." He began, pulling out a piece of parchment from his jacket pocket. "The Duke states that All power of mine shall be given to Ava in the event that I am unable, for whatever reason, to lead Aeropa. She shall have your full confidence and support through this time and this shall continue up until the point that I am able to return to my position. Signed, Duke Skyheed." There was silence as the members mulled over what was just spoken and those who questioned the authenticity of the letter, were swiftly put into their place when Ruskin showed them the signature they knew all too well. Ava still didn't understand why Skyheed hadn't given the power to Ruskin, after all, he would have been much better suited and he has much more experience in this sort of thing.
"But why her?" Mason asked, finally breaking the silence between him and Ruskin. Ava's heart practically stopped. Sure, she had moved into Aeropa with the Duke and quite a few people knew that they were together, but the council was not one of those few. She had, of course attended a few councils under the false identity of Lady Loveguar: a woman who was of great battle instincts and attacking procedures. Naturally, the council hadn't suspected a thing. Why were they hiding such a thing? It was simple. Ava wasn't of Noble blood and therefore such relationship would be frowned upon in the council, and many people in Aeropa would probably feel the same way. The reality of the situation had just hit Ava truly. As far as the Aeropans are concerned, a commoner with no knowledge what-so-ever had just wriggled herself onto the throne. Awkward.
"The reason why is unknown to me." Ruskin replied, bluntly. Mason seemed satisfied and so was Ava.
"Well then." Mason smiled, "Welcome to the Council of Aeropa and I hope you know what your getting yourself into."
"Thank you." Was all Ava said. That was difficult.
"I think our young Highness here should get to bed, it's late. We can continue this in the morning, maybe even sort this mess out." Mason laughed, standing up. Ava nodded her head and followed Ruskin out and towards her temporary quarters. It was safer not to go in her old room, so not to arouse suspicion.
After a while of walking, Ruskin stopped outside a large door.
"That was interesting." Ruskin smiled, adjusting his crutches.
"Awkward..." Ava replied, opening the door. She sent a smile towards Natla, who was just about to enter her quarters opposite.
"I suppose you could call it that. Goodnight ladies, I shall come for you at 8am sharp." With that, Ruskin hobbled off and Ava went silently into the room behind her.
The room was much like her old one. A large open space with seating leading up to three shallow steps which lead to the bed and a large surrounding window. The Aeropans sure knew good architecture and what looks amazing. It was modern... with a hint of character. Smiling, Ava sat down on the edge of the bed. She was so glad to be back in the Palace; it was home to her, even if Skyheed was off somewhere else, destroying the world while he was at it. Settling down under the sheets, she wandered about what tomorrow would bring. The council meeting in the morning was going to have the same awkward atmosphere, and chances were she would actually have to say more than a thank you to fully gain their trust.
Ava awoke suddenly to the sound of rustling. It took a moment or two for her ears to actually respond to the sound, but once she was able to tune in she identified the noise as someone moving around. From what she could tell from the muffled footsteps, the person, or thing, was heavy on its feel and scuffed when they walked. Eventually, Ava gained the courage to sit up and confront whatever it was, but much to her surprise, it got there first. There was a sudden gust of cold air as the covers were whipped off her body and a cheery voice sang the words 'Good Morning'. Ava's eyes snapped open and her arms automatically wrapped themselves around her heat deprived body. It was like being nice and warm by a log fire and then being picked up and being thrown into a lake on a freezing winters morning.
Once sat up, Ava could see the top of someone's head walking around the bottom of her bed. Every now and again it would bob down and whoever it belonged to, they would mutter something. Ava's eyes followed the visual anomaly until it popped it's head around the corner of her bed, revealing a short woman, who in truth resembled a goblin. She had winding hair which had turned a brownish grey, her clothing was simple and she had a distinct twinkle in her eyes.
"Good Morning, your Highness!" She laughed, tapping Ava's leg with her hand. Ava smiled and stood up, allowing the odd looking woman to make the bed. "Chancellor Ruskin will be here in half an hour." Ava acknowledged what she said, but didn't reply. She was far too intrigued by the woman to summon words. "Oh my. I should introduce myself shouldn't I. I'm not used to new faces... we usual have pretty much the same guests all year round; different ones at different times of the year, you know? Well, I'm Kayara and I will be your chambermaid."
"Well, Kayara, its a pleasure." Ava smiled and she received a rather excited grin back.
"I've never looked after royalty before. Never in my forty years working here have I had royalty..." She trailed off in a daydream before snapping back into reality rather sharply. "We need to get you ready." She swiftly handed Ava a pile of clothes and ushered her into the bathroom to change.
Once the door clicked closed, Ava stared at the pile of clothes which had been thrust into her arms. What caught her eye immediately was the pair of dull yellow slacks and silver belt. After talking them off the pile and hanging them over the edge of the bath, Ava continued to look at what she was required to wear. A simple white, short sleeved blouse was next, followed by jacket in the signature Aeropan purple colour. It was made to fit, somehow, and was almost Chinese in design: plain, but zipped up more to the side than the centre.
Opening the door, Ava made her way out and smartened herself up in the mirror. It was 5 minutes to eight. She had just enough time to put her hair up into a neat bun before Chancellor Ruskin walked in accompanied by Natla. No words were exchanged, just mere glances were enough to understand they they had to make their way to the Council.
There was an awkward atmosphere as Ava and Natla walked into the hall and sat down. There was the same introduction format as always; why they were there and what they were going to be talking about.
"Morning all." Ruskin spoke, Staying stood up with the help of his crutches; knowing that I he was to sit down, he wouldn't get back up again for a while. "We all know why were here this morning. The matter up for discussion is Aeropa itself and its current state." There was silence as members thought about what to say. Natla shot Ava a look and after picking up the courage... she went to speak. Before she did though, Mason stood up.
"What is there to discuss? Aeropa has fallen and thats the end of it." Mason's negative talk sparked something in Ava;
" Aeropa will only fall if you believe it will." She stood up and placed her hands on her hips. "I'm not the most positive person on this planet thanks to a lot of things that have happened to me, but I know when something isn't lost. Aeropa isn't lost. Sure, its not exactly in the most immaculate condition right now and many people's lives are in danger but there is still hope." There was universal agreement signalled by nodding from the council members.
"And what makes you think, that you can bring Aeropa back from its current burning state?" Mason was really beginning to frustrate Ava, with his negative attitude and questioning personality.
"I have common sense." Her reply was blunt and brought a smile from Natla, who was otherwise sat there bored out of her mind. She wasn't anything important to the council, but was merely there to support Ava.
"So, your Majesty... what do you propose we do?" Ava gave a frightened look towards Chancellor Ruskin, who merely nodded in such a way that said speak.
"I propose..." Ava started, professionally pacing, "... that we get out of here."
"WHAT?" Mason shouted, standing up in protest. "Are you insane?"
"That is no way to talk to your superior, Mason! You wouldn't dare to speak to our Duke in that way, and it is in his wishes that you treat Ava in the same way." Ruskin called back. This was getting heated and Natla appeared to be feeling very uncomfortable. There was a quick exchange of words between her and Ruskin which resulted in her leaving. She couldn't cope with the responsibility... if she couldn't... then...
"You heard what I said." Ava spoke again, " I don't think at this time, that Aeropa is safe. Burning buildings are falling and people's lives are in danger. I propose that we leave." She had drawn confidence from somewhere.
"A proposal... or an order?" Chancellor Ruskin spoke. The look on his face was enough to remind Ava that she wasn't just a member of the council... but she was at the head of Aeropa.
"An order." Ruskin smiled at her request, she was finally getting the hand of the ruling malarkey. "I want every Aeropan to be flown out of the city and to safety."
"And where do you propose we go? You can't just spontaneously move an entire city of people halfway across the Brink." Mason was trying his hardest to pick holes in Ava's plan, but she had it worked out an entire two minutes ago, so it was obviously flawless. Not.
"The Old Aeropan Barracks. If we can restore power there, then it would be a perfect refuge for now." Ava was trying to act passionate.
"I see... I have to admit that..." Mason began.
"Admit what?" Ruskin asked, he knew this man all to well. He was either going to be utterly truthful or he was planning to say something witty.
"I have to admit that idea is... doable." He was almost ashamed to admit it.
"Good." Ava smiled, " I want all Aeropans to begin to be moved as of now. The quicker we can get out of Aeropa, the quicker we can feel safe and start sorting the mess out from a distance." There was a unified agreement as the council members stood up and shook Ava's hand. Fair enough, she was doing well on her first day on the job.
By midday on Thursday, just three days after the last council meeting, the last plane load of Aeropans had taken off and were on their way to the Barracks. Thankfully, the magicians that were actually electricians had managed to get the power back on and drain some of the leaked Dark Eco to make it more user friendly. The Aeropans were great at 'change-of-circumsance' situations and so they just got on with what was presented before them. Ava and Ruskin were left alone in Aeropa, waiting on the last pilot to fly them to the Barracks. She wanted to be the last to leave because she believed that her people were more important... this true feeling easily won the trust of most of her council members: of course Mason was still reluctant to agree. The plane was then ready, and with a backward glance, Ava left Aeropa for the second time, watching it burn from the skies.
The Barracks had been efficiently changed into a giant living space. Places which once held scientific equipment were now places for the injured to heal and one of the many Eco-Testing rooms were now filled with temporary bedding. Each Aeropan was doing what they could to make the Barracks a more liveable space. Sure, they were called Barracks... you would presume that they would automatically be suited for living. If you thought this, you'd be wrong. Once, the Aeropan Barracks had been home to the Aeropan army, before the Dark Eco Experiments began there. This explains why there was so much equipment; it could rival that of the Abandoned Research Rig... the reason it was abandoned? Easy... Disturbances from Precurson Engineering below.
Ava moved through the people and towards a room that had been dedicated for the council. There were a few other Aeropans in there in which Ava had never lay eyes on before. Naturally, they were swiftly introduced as the main brains in the Labs. They were the scientific heart to Aeropa.
"What are we going to do?" One of them asked, looking out of a foggy window. Their lab coats were blowing in the draft and their glasses were covered in steam.
"Help him." Ava replied, hugging herself in the hope to retain some warmth. Aeropan coats were usually very warm, if not over powering, but in the cold air in the middle of the Brink it didn't stand a chance.
"Help who?" Another scientist asked.
"Duke Skyheed." Ava was being blunt. For such intelligent people they were being very thick.
"The Eco has mutated his cells, leaving him vulnerable to the dark precursors. His very DNA has been warped. The man you knew died long ago, now only a shadow of him survives... the possibility he is still in there is slim." He pulled his lab coat around him as he said those words, which were painful for Ava to hear; sad but true.
"You cant just give up!" Ava retorted. Tears were brewing in her eyes, but she couldn't show them.
"There may be a way... It would be dangerous though." He was rubbing his chin in that signature thinking way.
"What? Tell me!" Ava was growing desperate, and she didn't mind if she started crying. The other council members had gone to help out the injured and the scientist and her were the only ones in the room.
"One possibility, a risk filled one if that, a shot would be able to contain him. A medical shot which would render him unconscious in which we could decrease the eco in his blood stream. It's a ludicrous proposal, but it can work." The scientist didn't seem sure, but if there was a chance that the Skyheed Ava once knew was still in there, then she would do anything to bring him back.
"So... it would have to be administered as usual... in the arm?" Ava asked, trying to plan a way in which she would actually manage to give Skyheed the shot if she had the chance.
"Not at all. Once a cell has been mutated by Dark Eco, it becomes very resistant and therefore stronger. Piercing his skin would prove to be impossible with a normal hypodermic needle, if you could even get close to him. It would have to be a very fine needle and probably shot at him: the velocity would help in piercing the skin. The neck would be the best place to try... if we were able to make the shot in the first place." He was seeming slightly more confident.
"Then do it. Have every able scientist or highly qualified man in the labs, I want it made as soon as possible." There was a quick 'yes miss' as the scientists walked out to start work.
It wasn't just Ava who was relying on Skyheed coming back... but it was the entirety of Aeropa as well... without him, they wouldn't be able to truly be themselves. Aeropa wouldn't stand a chance without his impeccable rein.
"Miss Ava, Miss Ava!" Cried a young boy, who came running into the Council room. It had been four days since she had dismissed the scientists to make the shot and she still had heard nothing. Now, all of a sudden, a twelve year boy had barged in on Ava and Ruskin's conversation on what they were going to do.
"Yes?" Ava was being polite, even if children annoy her.
"My father said to tell you that his scouts have seen Duke Skyheed go into the Eco Core complex. He arrived there last night and hasn't moved." He was genuinely out of breath and Ava now knew who the young boy was. Pete was the General's son and a very well brought up lad.
"Really? Well that information is invaluable, thank you." He was escorted quickly out of the room and Ava looked up at Ruskin. "Well?"
"We can only hope that the Scientists come up with something." Ruskin said, looking out of the window.
"I guess so." She muttered in reply. It's all we can do... wait.
A further two days passed before Ava was finally called for. Throwing on her boots she dashed down to the labs, through several Dark Eco flooded corridors. She was warmly welcomed and almost immediately handed what looked like a normal pistol. The scientist in which she was speaking to days ago approached her and handed her a small box. Inside was a transparent bullet with a blood red, thick liquid inside. No words needed to be exchanged between the two people, as both knew what it was and what needed to be done. So loading the pistol with the transparent bullet, Ava walked out and headed towards the Hangar.
Along the way she met Ruskin, who was looking for her. It was late afternoon already and Ava knew she had to move quickly if she was going to catch a pilot today, to take her to the Eco Core.
"Ruskin, I have the shot." Ava had a nervous smile on her face.
"Right, what do you want me to do while your gone?" His tone was genuine and over the past few days they had really become to know each other.
"Start taking the people back to Aeropa. The fires should of burnt out by now. We need to start rebuilding as soon as possible." She received a nod in return from Ruskin before she continued her run down to the Hangar.
She was briefly met by a selection of pilots. None of them wanted to fly to the Eco Core for obvious reasons: The sky around that area was prone to Sky Pirate attacks and the fact that Skyheed was currently warranting a blood bath might have been just a few reasons. They directed her towards what used to be a 'spare parts' cupboard and inside, was a middle aged man with the freakiest pair of green eyes you have ever seen. They were two different shades and seemed to see deep inside your soul, or thats the impression that they gave. Ava asked the man whether he would be willing to fly her to the Eco Core, and almost immediately he replied with a yes. He wasted no time in dragging poor Ava towards one of the planes and taking off. It later came apparent that he had lost his family long ago in a plane crash and didn't care about the more dangerous missions; he concluded that he had nothing to live for.
The journey there was filled with numerous stories from his past; dog fights with pirates and formal dinners with the Duke. It was obvious that he was a proud supporter of Skyheed, and somewhat supported Ava at the same time:
"I understand what your trying to do, young Ava. Its a hard job to be suddenly thrown into; but just think, Skyheed was thrown into it at the mere age of sixteen..."
"I know. I can hardly cope now... let alone when I was younger. If it wasn't for the council I don't know where I would be..." Ava cut off her sentence and the remaining journey was travelled in silence.
The plane swiftly landed on a small, rock platform located outside the Abandoned Research Rig, which was now the home of the Eco Core. Aeropans of old had discovered it, but wisely deciding that its power was too great, they left it alone; leaving the facility to go dormant. That was until a few days ago, when a Dark Eco infused Skyheed lit up its corridors again. Ava stepped onto the wing of the plane, and then onto the rocky ground. She was handed a walkie talkie to contact her pilot she had come to know as Luke. He encouragingly tapped her on the shoulder as she began the long and windy walk across the runway which lead into the Rig's destroyed Hangar.
Inside was completely wrecked, where the Eco Core had moved everything out of the way in order to push up to the light. The control station was still below ground, and thats where Ava was heading. Surely if you had the power to crack into such a system and take its power... you would first start it its control core? Even if what she saw down there was utterly terrifying, somewhere deep inside the monster... was Skyheed.
Winding corridors and flooded rooms were what greeted her once she was fully inside the Rig. Every now and again Luke was come through on the walkie talkie to make sure she was alright and didn't need help. She of course answered that she was fine, but really, she was frightened. Before she was just a mere girl with a sickening background and an insignificant life... now, she was the head of a city, and an advanced one at that. The man she had came to love was now a monster and she had no family to support her. Her negative thinking was interrupted when she came to massive cracks in the floor and what seemed to be a lift shaft. This was it, the lift down to the Eco Core. The lift was already at the bottom and if she was to call it back up, Skyheed would almost certainly notice. She would have to be subtle... somehow.
Gaining the courage needed, she made her way towards some jagged rocks which were coming through the floor. Through the large crack surrounding them she could see a vague way down, towards some old poles. If she could reach those, then she could swing her way across the black abyss and make it into the platform, where she could see Skyheed. He was, of course, in his dark form and it brought a tear to Ava's eye, knowing that what stood down there was not the man she once knew, but a monster holding him captive with its vicious grip. Slowly, she made her way down. Slowly. Slowly. Rocks cut at her hands and drew blood but still she moved downwards. Finally reaching the poled, she secured the pistol in her holster and made a leap for one. Her blood covered hands didn't provide much grip and she struggled to stay on. The abyss below was beckoning, if she was to fall all of her worries would be over... Biting her lip, Ava swung for the next pole, gaining on the platform only meters away from her. It was a bit of a drop to the platform... but it had to be made. After counting to three, Ava let go of the pole.
The abyss did not catch her, but the platform did. The loud clang in which the Precurson metal made was enough to startle Skyheed. He span around and fixed his dark eyes on Ava, who by this point was shaking in pure fear. It was obvious he didn't recognise her. His eyes were full of hate and his body covered in scars. The monster stood before her could end the world right then, corrupt from power and the sheer strength of the Eco, but he didn't. It appeared that he did not know how to work the control panel. Many people over many years had tried to, but had not succeeded, This had worked to her advantage. He had pondered over it for so long it had given Ava more time to get here with the Shot.
This was it. She was about to shoot the man she had fallen madly in love with. The monster staggered forward, bearing its teeth. Ava took the pistol from her holster and raised it up with shaky hands. The monster did not move. He stared. Black claws were as sharp as knives, lifted up in a movement to warn. Ava closed her eyes, and pulled the trigger.
There was a piercing noise as the transparent bullet pierced the air and wedged itself in the monsters neck. Staggering backwards, he held a hand to where it had struck him. Bewildered, he pulled his hand away to see a small trickle of blood smudged across his fingers. Ava kept her distance. She didn't know what his reaction was going to be. The words of the Scientist kept spinning around in Ava's head; The Eco has mutated his cells... The man you knew died long ago... She wiped the tears away in time to see the beast stagger backwards, loose its balance and fall to the floor. It lay there, it didn't move.
After a few moments, Ava made her way, cautiously, towards the monster. Its breathing had slowed and it was simply staring up at what was posing as the ceiling. Ava felt another tear stroll down her cheek as she approached the beast laying on the floor. Once it caught sight of her, it stared. It was obvious that it now didn't have the energy to move not the desire to hurt her. Something was happening but what was still a mystery. She knelt down by it's side and ran her hands up its broad chest; covered in cuts and bruises. She remembered the first time she had seen Skyheed like this... the sheer terror that coursed its way through her veins was, in itself, frightening. It, or he, lay there, merely watching every movement. Somewhere inside this monster was the loving and caring man she had once known.
Quietly, Ava moved a stray piece of hair from the monsters face. It had grown back to its original length, only here, it wasn't tied up in its usual neat ponytail. Instead, it scattered itself in all directions, twisting into knots. His breathing had slowed more and Ava gained the courage to stroke his cheek: oh so gently. Fight it Skyheed... this isn't you... Just as she was about to break down crying next to this supposedly untameable beast, her walkie talkie burst into life with a concerned Luke on the end of it. He asked if everything was okay and Ava broke down into tears, explaining what had just happened. The short conversation ended with the words 'I'm on my way'.
Luke came running into the Eco Core complex and, cleverly, took the lift down to where Ava was resting her head on the monsters vast chest. Tears were in her eyes, remembering the man that this monster used to be. She lifted her head and looked at Luke, who walked over.
"What do you think we should do?" He asked, looking at the very relaxed Skyheed.
"I don't know." Ava was so emotional she couldn't think straight. Almost immediately after she had said that, the monster next to her winced in pain and thrashed out with its claws. Luke dragged Ava away and both of them watched as a large Eco Sphere surrounded Skyheed. Shielding their eyes, both of them crouched in a corner, wondering what was happening, scared.
Once the sphere had subsided, it revealed a more recognisable body laying on the floor: a shirtless, bruised, hurt man with choppy blue hair and torn trousers. Ava dashed towards him and knelt by his side. The shot appeared to have worked; he was fully unconscious. He looked so pitiful, so in pain. Luke rested a hand on her shoulder and helped her up. Luke, being quite a strong man, picked the unconscious Skyheed up and threw him over one shoulder. It didn't take long for them to navigate their way back to the Hangar and then onto the plane. Luke lay Skyheed across the back seats and Ava stayed with him, resting his head on her lap. For the entire journey back, she was stroking his head and twiddling his hair between her fingers. How she missed his warm arms...
Aeropa quickly became visible through the thick cloud. Luke flicked a small ball of paper at Ava in order to wake her up. It startled her, but the first thing she did was to check Skyheed was okay. Once she established that, she flicked the paper back at Luke. He called the Hangar ahead of them and requested medical attention.
Minutes later, everything happened so fast. Skyheed was whisked off on a bed towards the hospital faster than anyone had moved. Ava followed but was caught by Ruskin who proceeded to drag her off in another direction. His leg had obviously healed and he was now walking again. Ava was a mess by the time he got her to the hall, where the council was already assembled.
"Skyheed's back." Ruskin panted, talking straight through the circle of members and sitting on his seat. Ava followed but more slowly.
"I've been gone mere hours and you boys have already sorted out some of the city." Ava was staring out of the window at the city that was slowly building itself back up.
"It was the orders you left." Mason replied, smiling. What was wrong with him?
"I see you have finally..." Ava began before being interrupted.
"I don't think now is the time." Ruskin laughed. "We have more pressing matters on our hands."
"Time, Chancellor. In time the city will rebuild itself." For once... they all agreed.
Each council member left and made their way towards their usual quarters. The palace was one part of the city that wasn't drastically affected. As Ava made her way towards her temporary quarters she was pulled to one side by a nurse who had come looking for her. Swiftly, she was escorted to the Hospital and told not to be afraid.
Ava walked, alone, into a side room on the Hospital ward. Taking a deep breath, she opened the door with a sign saying 'Private' on it and stepped in. Lay before her on the Hospital bed was Skyheed. He was shirtless and covered with wires which linked to machines, IV drips were connected to his arm and blood was being filtered via a transfusion pump, drawing out the Eco. She sat on the side of his bed for a few moments; stroking his hair. So much pressure drove this man to being what he couldn't be...
Dear Diary,
It's been three months. Three months to the day that we pulled Skyheed out from that curse and began to filter his blood from the Dark Eco that raged within. Scientists are still unsure... they don't believe fully that it is going to work, they don't believe that he will ever wake up. Why do they abandon him in his time of need? Did he? No. He was there for all Aeropans from the day that he was thrusted greatness. I can't help but wonder what he went through as a child... things he never told me... and all I can do is wonder. As far as I know he will never hold me in his arms again, nor will he point out constellations in the sky when were laying underneath them. Will I ever relive those feelings?
What I feel right now is irrelevant. The city I have cherished for so long has finally blossomed. Aeropa has been rebuilt and I have learnt so much leading it to this point. I have truly figured out who I am... as cliché as it sounds. I know know etiquette and what is considered wrong and right... I am now a Lady. Everything has changed so much...
Christmas is just around the corner. Unlike before, the city has been covered in lights and tinsel. Children can be seen from my study window, as I am writing this entry, running around in pretty dresses, playing. Everyone seems so happy, everyone seems so joyful. I have been robbed... the man I love was robbed from me... taken by darkness. I can only like in hope that one day, he will wake up and still love me.
I guess, as before, only time will tell.
Ava. X
Ava awoke the next morning with the distinct feeling she was being watched. Sure enough, when she opened her eyes she saw Kayara stood at the bottom of her bed, holding what seemed to be Ava's phone in her hand.
"Sorry to wake you, Miss, But your phone has been ringing all morning." Ava blinked a few times before sitting up and noticing the time. 12:45. She had slept in far too late. She took her phone and went to have a shower, leaving it next to the sink. While she was actually in the shower, she listened to the messaged that were left.
"Miss Ava. Apologies for ringing your private number, but Skyheed's stat's have just increased. The doctor thinks that he may be in the process of waking up. Please come down as soon as your free."
Ava had never leapt out of the shower and got dressed so quickly in all of her life. She sprinted past council members who wanted to stand and chat and slid through doorways. It seemed to take mere minutes to get to the Hospital from the Palace and once there, she was escorted into the private room.
Many of the wires that had once inhabited Skyheed's chest were now gone and all of the machines were turned off. She was left alone with him. Carefully, she sat onto the side of his bed and stroked his cheek. Wake up... Half an hour passed and nothing happened, but just as Ava was loosing hope; two blue slits appeared in his eyes.
"Merry Christmas." Ava sobbed, looking at Skyheed's barely open eyes. He didn't yet have the strength to say anything, but he moved his hand to touch hers. That was enough. He was alive.
"Doctor!" Ava called, she needed to alert them about the fact he was awake. The one that had been looking over Skyheed for all these months came rushing in and smiled. He gave Skyheed a shot of some sort and said that he should fully come around in a few moments. The rest of that days schedule went out of the window, as Ava stayed next to Skyheed, watching him slowly wake up from a sleep that had lasted for what seemed to be forever.
It was Christmas eve when Skyheed finally walked out of the Hospital, with the help of Ava. He was unsteady on his feet and weak, but with rest, he would make a full recovery. Against the odds, he had survived again. He had missed so much. Ava now had Dark powers of her own, and with the help of what Gol gave her... she could manage them.
The first thing Ava did was take Skyheed to the Eco Fountain, where she walked him to the edge. Skyheed's eyes lit up when he saw the lights of Aeropa shining brightly. Large Christmas trees were scattered around the city and the distant sound of a children's choir could be heard singing carols.
"It looks incredible." He muttered, holding on to Ava.
"You've missed quite a lot." she laughed.
"Ava..." he began.
"Don't." Ava knew exactly what was coming and her emotional status would not cope with it at that moment.
"I don't deserve to be alive. I caused so much pain... so much..."
"Yes. You did. You single-handedly destroyed Aeropa and became a complete... dick." She looked up at Skyheed who had a look of shock upon his face, accompanies by the feeling of sorrow. "But, what happened, happened for a reason. Anyway, it happened and we cant do anything about it now. All that's important is that your alive and Aeropa is back on track. Technology is advancing and we have, together cracked the secrets of Dark Eco."
"Don't use too much, Ava. Its not good for you." Skyheed was being sincere up until the point Ava laughed.
"Pot... Kettle... Black." Ava smiled and remembered people saying that to her when she was growing up.
"What?" Skyheed laughed, not hearing that phrase before.
"Hypocrite." She smiled again and wrapped her arms around his neck. "We should really get you inside, it's getting cold."
As they began to walk inside, snow began to softly fall. Skyheed stopped and looked up to the sky, which was a beautiful light grey. Ava was right, it was getting cold, but that didn't stop him from pulling her close and kissing her unexpectedly in the light flakes which were showering them. Ruskin looked out of his window and saw the both of them. The words 'its about time' were muttered under his breath before he went to bed.
"Ava..." Skyheed finally said. "I cant forgive myself for what I've done."
"Well your going to have to. Your the only one left who hasn't. Every Aeropan out there is more than happy to have you back, and anyway, I need a Holiday. All this 'running a city' malarkey isn't what its cracked up to be." She lead Skyheed inside and shut the doors. There was no reply from Skyheed. The minute his head hit the pillow in his own bed with Ava, he was asleep.
Tomorrow was going to be just another day...