A/N - Hello! Thanks as always to those who review and follow, nearly 100 followers, woop woop.
On another note, for some reason my computer decided to delete most of what I had written... yeah, that was a real blast. I was able to salvage the data but the file was fairly damaged, so I've had to go back through and comb it of error and chinese symbols, hahahaha -_- but I digress.
Therefore I apologise if there are any lines that have been repeated or thoughts by the characters that are not in italics.
"Jesse" Beca stood from the chair and went over to the next room, finding Jesse sitting up and drinking from the cup of water that had been left on the coffee table for him by Aubrey.
"Hey" he croakily replied, "How long have I been out?"
"A few hours" Beca sat beside him as the others filled into the room.
Aubrey walked over, a smile broke out in relief that he was awake but composed herself, arms folded and an unimpressed expression as her eyes gazed into Jesse.
He looked up and could tell she was mad, but his eyes quickly picked up on the new presence in the room.
It's her, the woman I tried to save.
"Hey, it's you. You got out of there!"
"Thanks to you and your friends here" Stacie replied, "My name is Stacie by the way"
"Lovely to meet you" Jesse held out his hand is gesture but Stacie seemed more than hesitant to accept, as if second guessing herself, which confused Jesse. However after her moment she calmed herself, her hand slowly reached out and accepted the handshake.
"Look we all need to talk, and in doing so we should go downstairs" Aubrey declared, an almost annoyance in her voice.
Chloe gazed at Aubrey with a questioning glare about taking the new girl to where all their information is stored but Aubrey passively turned and disappeared through the floor.
Stacie was wide eyed. Beca shot her a look as if to say 'uh yeah she can do that'.
Beca then assessed Jesse first and he told her he felt fine.
Picking themselves up they all walked downstairs and took a seat around the table.
They allowed Jesse to catch up on information regarding Stacie, she even showed her powers once again which he was mesmerized by. But then the questions fell upon him.
"Jesse. We had a plan, correct?" Aubrey started.
He stayed silent and allowed the scolding to begin for his actions.
"You ran in there without any thought towards our words and pleads about waiting. In doing so you jeopardized the lives of everybody in this room!"
"Aub-" Beca wanted to defend her brother but Aubrey would have none of it.
"No Beca! I want to hear what he has to say"
All eyes fell on him, and out of all of them the most blazing were Chloe's, there was no denying how angry she appeared to be. Whether it was towards him or the apparent tension between her and the new girl, he didn't know.
"You are right. I- I allowed my emotions to get the best of me down there. I saw the horrible utensils they were bringing in to the room and- and how much in pain Stacie appeared to be in. The very last thing I would ever want to do is put any of your lives in danger that is why I took the notion upon myself in trying to help her. I thought-"
"You thought wrong." Chloe spat.
Even Aubrey looked a little stunned by Chloe's words but composed herself rapidly, turning her attention back to Jesse.
"Jesse, please you must see your errors here. We warned you of how important and how much interest Prism takes in both you and Beca. Of which Beca completely disregarded also. I took it upon myself in trying to get to you before they extracted you to another location" Aubrey spoke but stopped with Jesse's expression confused, realizing he was of course unaware of the chaos that unfolded while he was out.
"The doctor that syringed you, he called in a huge reinforcement of Elite on our location. The alarm rung out and the choices that were available were slim to none. However much to my debate, Beca stormed into the facility and well, saved both of us. Furthermore what I saw her accomplish was nothing short of amazing"
All eyes were on Beca, of which Beca hated and wished Aubrey would shut her mouth.
Beca sighed and pushed to try and move on with the discussion, "Jesse they are right. However in saying that, can we all take into account that this was his and my first mission ever? And this was a big ask, of Jesse to go in there. Apart from that, Jesse I believe you did well, this was no easy task and before you went on search for 'Frost' you completed the tasks in stealth"
A small smile formed on Jesse's face in thanks.
"Wait you all knew I was there?" Stacie spoke up.
Beca mentally sighed of relief that conversation did in fact change and move on from herself.
Chloe huffed, "No we did not. We had picked up radio chatter and talk from around the area of a 'Project Frost'"
Benji continued "We had no idea what that entailed, but it was circling around this facility and was mentioned numerous of times. Jesse went in to plant a Trojan in their systems and afterwards followed some men who were conversing about well…you"
"Right" Stacie said.
Beca stood from the chair and all eyes were glued to her.
Walking over to a desk she grabbed a piece of paper and a marker, then made her way over to the wall.
"This 'doctor' who was in the room and syringed you Jesse his name is Xaphan, Donald Xaphan"
Writing down his name she stuck it to the wall with some tape.
"I don't know where he falls amongst all of this but my gut tells me that he is a leader or at least someone that is taking a high overview on the testing or experiments they are conducting on us"
Jesse's blood ran hotter at the recollection of the man standing above him before he passed out. That was the first time he had been caught like that, and of course it really alarmed Jesse of how close he was to becoming one of their captives.
"He knew about me, he knew my name" Jesse spoke.
"Likewise" Beca agreed, "I tried to get answers out of him about what they could be doing to us, but of course, he was reluctant to provide any insight"
The words hung on the tip of Beca's tongue about what else she had heard him say, moreover the very plausible fact that Beca was their main target. But the last thing she would want is for everything to be thrown into chaos, for them to look at her differently like a vulnerable child.
No, now is not the time for that. They already know how high priority we are to Prism, just leave it at that Beca.
"He's sadistic" Stacie voice was quiet but laced with hate.
"I told you that you were not the first ones to try and help me out of there. Amy is her name. She was also held captive down there but tried to break free one night. Even though we all have abilities here, it still seems crazy to say but... she- I think she is a shape shifter"
"Go on" Beca urged as she walked towards the table and sat back down.
"I barely remember the incident, I was still drugged. But I recall a lot of noise and commotion coming from outside the door, which was quickly smashed down. I couldn't believe my eyes but a bear that suddenly phased into a woman ran over and helped me out of my restraints. She asked if I could walk and I shook my head, she told me her name was Amy and that we'd be getting out of there. I heard loud alarms ringing and- I think I was riding on her back when she shifted back into a bear. Which was massive by the way! We didn't get far I think, it was hard to keep my eyes open, she was shot and something dropped down on us, maybe a net. I heard her wince in pain and I think I too was shot with something because I passed out. I don't know what happened to her" Stacie informed.
"Incredible. I believe I may know" Benji spoke up and all eyes turned to him.
"You found something?" Aubrey asked.
"Yes but barely much at all I'm afraid. It-… I think that each couple of days that go by, they are formatting their work off these servers"
Benji let everyone think about that for a moment.
"I-I don't know about you all but the very fact that they are really keeping this lid on tightly and the information stored is either being constantly moved or deleted it's- well it's worrisome" Benji spoke his thoughts.
Aubrey nodded, clearly she was in deep deliberation on his words, "What have you got Benji?"
"Project Primitive. I highly believe this is Amy. The files descriptions were half blocked but I was able to get some of it unblocked. It talks of a woman, aged 21 years, recorded to be brought up in a hippy manner with her parents. Now on her own and living independently. Current Status: Is in facility holding centre - Relocated after her attempts to break out" Benji read out the piece of paper he printed off.
"Hippy manner?" Aubrey asked.
"Must've moved around a lot as a child, you know? Always moving from one town to the next. Very probable she lived in a camp out in the woods which they would set up?" Benji guessed.
"Any idea how we can find her now?" Beca asked.
"I'll keep sorting through the data. But as for now she could be anywhere in one of their many facilities, we didn't even know they had a holding cell there until you went in Jesse" Benji answered.
"We have to assume that most if not all of these facilities, have this type of holding area" Beca spoke.
Chloe had been very quiet and Beca realized that a file had been slid across the table towards her from Benji, which she was reading through.
Benji cleared his throat, "There was some of your information stored on there too" he turned to Stacie, "Stacie Conrad, 23 years of age: 'Project Frost' reported of being able to turn her human form into a diamond/crystalized form. And uh-"
"What?" Stacie hesitantly asked.
"Well that's it at the moment she rest is blocked out." he answered.
"Anything more you care to tell us Stacie? Because if you have any wishes to live on this premises along side us, you need to tell us everything!" Chloe's voice rung strong.
"And what right do you have to demand that of her?" Beca's voice even more so.
Chloe was surprised but didn't back down.
"I have every right! You want to fall asleep under the same roof with a person you barely know?! She could be dangerous… here to cause trouble!" Chloe debated.
"Really again with this? Do you even hear yourself?" Beca had to calm herself.
This is ludicrous, I barely even know you for fuck sake!
Beca thought as she stared at Chloe then Aubrey.
"Give this time" Beca's voice was quiet now, she didn't wish to argue especially with Chloe, "I will take responsibility. Because in time, I believe this place could be a home and safe haven for others like us out there. You gave Jesse and I a chance, you told us you wanted to help others, then let this happen. Let her stay and prove herself, just like Jesse and I are. There are more of us that are alone out there, and maybe, maybe that doesn't have to be the case anymore"
I still can't believe she is acting this way. Why? She is so sweet and caring then the next she is cold and distant. Why is she torn?
Chloe had her arms folded, her face remained passive but her eyes gave it away for Beca. She could see them lighten but only slightly.
"Fine. But it's on you Beca if she endangers or causes problems" Chloe pushed out her chair and headed upstairs.
Beca sighed and went back to looking at the map of Prism's Elite, writing more down for Xaphan.
"Is there relationship strained? Is she jealous of me or something?" Stacie whispered to Jesse who was beside her.
"What relationship? They aren't together…" he whispered back.
Benji took this as the meeting was over and returned to his computer set up in the far corner.
"Seriously?... that's interesting" Stacie smirked.
Jesse's eyebrows were furrowed at the questions but his eyes soon landed on Aubrey who was staring at him.
"You should go have something to eat. I will talk to you later on and we can get back to training" Aubrey's words were final towards Jesse as she walked over to Beca.
Jesse huffed and made his way upstairs, not looking forward to that conversation.
Stacie's smirk stayed in place as she thought to herself, Wow is everyone sexually frustrated here?!
Beca saw Aubrey out of the corner of her eye walking towards her. Quickly she turned to Stacie.
"Stacie, you should go and get some sleep, pick any room upstairs that you like" Beca informed.
"Yes it appears you have showered, meaning you have used the towels in one of the bathrooms so preferably back to that room" Aubrey added.
"Sure thing your highness" Stacie winked and left upstairs.
Aubrey's expression at those words was completely unimpressed, which made Beca smirk.
"You and I need to talk" Aubrey declared.
Beca let her eyes roam the map once again in front of her, "So talk".
Aubrey looked back at Benji and saw he was immersed in his work as usual.
"Okay… tell me, how is you punched through concrete like it was foam?"
"I-… I'm not really sure"
Aubrey's eyebrows furrowed, annoyed and confused by the answer.
"Do you feel as though you could do that now?" she asked.
Beca scoffed, "What, you want me to try?"
"No... not here. I will think of something so we can train. Did it hurt?"
Beca had thought about it a lot and decided to speak her mind on her conclusion. "No, it didn't. I- I believe that with my power I was able to... augment- no, enhance my strength mentally"
"Very interesting" Aubrey voiced.
As for being able to order a whole squadron to drop their guns... well, I think I will keep that to myself for now.
"Yes wel-"
"Did you feel drained at all?" Aubrey asked.
"Not really, I don't think so anyway. With the adrenaline of it all I forgot I had a knife in my arm until Chloe said something... and uh-" With Beca's thoughts running on Chloe, she wanted to try and talk to Aubrey about the situation, "You are with me on this right? You've had a group of your own, you want to help people? What I said before, about this place becoming a sanctuary for more than just us... wouldn't that be a goal worth reaching for?"
"With a bigger group, comes bigger responsibility. To look after everyone and foresee this area as being safe and that we can't be found... it's more a dream than a goal. I want to help those like us, who are struggling, alone, impacted by Prism. But it is our lives on the line too. I completely understand the position you were in when you helped her and she helped you. I-" Aubrey sighed, "I think you did the right thing in bringing her here, and I hope you prove your words right in giving her a chance here. Mark my words I'll be watching her like a hawk though!"
After her words Aubrey turned and went over to sit with Benji.
Beca turned back to the list and read the names with their descriptions one more time:
Master Cerberus - A possible founder of the company... not much is known other than this is believed to be the man who was killed by Jesse Swanson. Which asks the question who is the new or other Master running Prism. DECEASED.
Kolio A. - A Prism Elite agent he was a sick twisted man who found pleasure in torturing those he had captured before turning them in to Prism. DECEASED.
Daniel Stevens - An extremely powerful Prism Elite (Chief? Definitely more than just an agent in ranking). Leads the front on 'Aurora' (Beca Mitchell and Jesse Swanson) and perhaps has a personal vendetta against them. ALIVE.
Donald Xaphan - He's deadly with a blade – more than decent aim with knives. A surgeon/doctor of sorts he is sadistic. A possible lead on experiments that take place on those with abilities. ALIVE.
Bumper Allen - A high-ranking Prism Elite agent he has worked for the company for many years. Has rounded up countless with special abilities for Prism. He is determined, dangerous and wicked, does not care for any others but himself. Is skillfully trained with his favourite weapon, a baton/staff. ALIVE.
Reading the names made Beca's mind go into overdrive, she could feel her body's temperature rising and quickly decided to head upstairs and outside.
The fresh air that immediately hit Beca was a wash of relief. It cooled her down and she inhaled it deeply. Continuing to walk she now stood in front of the lake. It was still rather early in the day, with the sun's rays glistening off the tranquil lakes water.
Beca walked out onto the end of the pier and sat down, leaning against a post that held the pier steady and in place on the left side.
Staring down at the water beneath her, she couldn't help her mind drift onto the red head. The two of them in these waters only a couple of days ago, having fun and relaxed, well so to speak, Beca's mind still wished Aubrey hadn't come along when she did. Watching on as Chloe created the beautiful sphere of water.
What is it about her... why do I find it hard to breathe or even speak properly when she is around me? I still barely know her yet,I can't help the feeling of... being connected with her somehow. The puzzle that is Chloe Beale...
Beca's eyes snapped to see the red hair flowing through the wooded area off to the side of the lake. Quickly she pushed herself up and ran to follow.
I want to confront her about what happened in there!
Beca walked through the area quietly, and again found herself able to sense the vibrations of Chloe's movements not far up ahead, which quickly stopped.
True as her senses had led her, Beca saw Chloe sitting on a log near waters edge staring out over the lake.
Beca silently watched on as the red head sent tiny rocks skimming across the lake, and with using her ability, would aim a spurt of water to hit the rocks.
She can manipulate elements... I would think that more powerful than my abilities. Maybe Prism isn't aware that she exists, if they did... I'm sure they would be after her just like me.
A pang hit Beca at the thought.
I will never allow them to get their hands on her... I-I can't.
Already the thought of losing Chloe made Beca feel ill.
Chloe sighed as she sent the rocks flying across the lake, making a challenge out of it for herself in aiming the water to hit the rocks mid-flight.
Pull yourself together Chloe. What were you thinking?! You cannot feel the way you feel. That is forbidden. Keep focused... ... But, she's so beautiful and is able to crack through my barrier, I-I car- No!- I can't... I mustn't!
The view of the lake didn't help with her thoughts on Beca, remembering their moment shared in the calm waters.
I wanted to reach out and pull a strand of her hair back, she looked so- NO! Chloe stop this.
Chloe shook her head and turned her focus onto the rock she had bought up to eye level. With most of her concentration and frustration she sent the rock flying but it didn't make it far. Another rock was hurled towards hers with great precision and they shattered against each other. Chloe turned to find the one responsible and was a little shocked by the intrusion.
Composing herself she didn't say a word but turned her eyes back out upon the lake.
Beca walked further out and leaned against a tree that was behind Chloe who remained seated.
"It's astounding how tranquil this place is and can in turn, calm you." Beca spoke softly.
"Sometimes" Chloe softly replied back.
Beca sighed with defeat, "I'll leave yo-"
"No" the word was out of Chloe's mouth before she could stop it, "Please stay"
Dammit Chloe! she scolded herself.
Beca walked towards Chloe and sat beside her. Chloe didn't dare look and kept her eyes out at the lake, continuing to skip rocks along the surface.
"Why are you so skeptical?" Beca suddenly asked.
The question made Chloe's eyebrows furrow.
"I- I only wish you would talk to me Chloe. What is tearing at you?" Beca continued.
Chloe eyes went wide but composed herself, "I... I do want to talk to you Beca, more than anything I want-..." Chloe sighed as her mind reeled in her words and the necessary filter kicked in, "It's not easy for me to trust people either, especially those with powers believe it or not"
"You aren't like that with me..."
Chloe allowed her eyes to lock into Beca's, again she felt that deadly spark and connection she felt in that heated moment in the lake days before. It scared her, like Beca was able to completely see through her, and she didn't like it.
"Yes, well... you're an exception" Chloe lightly smiled and tore her gaze back
out at the lake.
"Well then..." Beca was hesitant but decided to reach out and take Chloe's hand, entwining their hands together, "Would you talk to me, please? Let me help you?"
Chloe felt a spark rush up her arm from the contact, and Beca was right she was torn. Immediately Chloe retracted her hand and stood up. Beca was quick as she did the same.
"Please Beca let it go. I just want us to be safe and I don't trust her!" Chloe began to walk away, along the lake.
Beca was on her heels, "You can't just gain trust within moments! You yourself just said you have a hard time trusting people, well so do I but just like you did me and Jesse why won't you give her a chance?"
"Why do you defend her?!"
"It appears someone here has to!"
"She isn't telling us the whole truth Beca! She's hiding something"
Beca halted, "Just like you are?"
Chloe also stopped and turned, walking right up to Beca.
Chloe was so angry yet the close distance she had brought herself into with Beca left her slightly speechless and out of breath.
Do not look at her lips.
Beca too felt the connection, that spark between them of how close they were. Chloe looked livid from her words, yet her expression lightened at their close proximity, and Beca found her mesmerizing.
"Why won't you let me in?" Beca simply whispered.