Well, it's finally here! Last chapter, and I hope envy one likes it. It all ends here. So enjoy! Also I apologies in advance for any grammar or speeding mistakes, for some reason my head is just dead the whole dang time.
Disclaimer: Never did own Young Justice. Just my own characters.
(Kaldur's POV)
Kris hands me the mic and I turn to face Aria, "I only really know one song by heart." She smiles and waits for me to tell her the song. It was now or never, I guess. "Because you live, by Jesse Mccartney." I noticed Aria slightly blush and I had a triumph smile on my face.
"So what's your name?" Kris comes back and I turn to him with a calm face.
"Just call me Kaldur." I answer then I hear the song start to play. Time to get this over with.
Staring out at the rain with a heavy heart
It's the end of the world in my mind
Then your voice pulls me back like a wake up call
I've been looking for the answer
Somewhere
I couldn't see that it was right there
But now I know what I didn't know
Because you live and breathe
Because you make me believe in myself when nobody else can help
Because you live, girl
My world has twice as many stars in the sky
It's alright, I survived, I'm alive again
Cuz of you, made it through every storm
What is life, what's the use if you're killing time
I'm so glad I found an angel
Someone
Who was there when all my hopes fell
I wanna fly, looking in your eyes
Because you live and breathe
Because you make me believe in myself when nobody else can help
Because you live, girl
My world has twice as many stars in the sky
Because you live, I live
Because you live there's a reason why
I carry on when I lose the fight
I want to give what you've given me always
Because you live and breathe
Because you make me believe in myself when nobody else can help
Because you live, girl
My world has twice as many stars in the sky
Because you live and breathe
Because you make me believe in myself when nobody else can help
Because you live, girl
My world has everything I need to survive
Because you live, I live, I live
I finished and got the crowd's cheers going, and some tears flowing from the women. I can see in the corner of my eye that Aria was smiling, which got me to feel even better. Of course Kris didn't see this as he started to walk towards me with a sneer on his face. "You have a pretty good voice, but you still can't really beat me." I smirk back at him, and hand back the mic to him.
"Remember, whoever gets more screams, gets her heart." I whisper back to him, and he returns my smirk. I watch him whisper in Aria's ear and I couldn't help the feeling of wanting to move him out of the way, but I had to keep it together.
(Kris's POV)
I don't know what this Kaldur person's problem is, but I doubt that I'll lose to him. Ya sure, he's good, but I'm better. And I have more experience in capturing the hearts of the audience. This guy is just a creep trying to get it in with Aria. Time to show him who's boss here. There's no way I'm giving her to him. When I saw him staring at Aria, it made my skin crawl and I had to step in.
I'm not the possessive type, but I am the protective kind. And this guy has that looks in his eyes that screams, "That's my girl," and I know he's one of those creeps here in Gotham. He looks like a good guy, but you know what they say, "Never judge a book by its cover." Especially in Gotham. Time to show this guy what's what.
I hear the song start, and I feel the beat run through me as I hear the crowd clap to the beat. 'Someone like you' was made for me to sing. To bad Kaldur, but I've already won.
You got a price tag hanging on the back of your dress,
You got your shoes undone and your hair is a mess,
But no one sees you like I do
You roll the windows down when it's starting to rain, yeah,
Everybody else might think you're insane,
But no one sees you like I do
Cause the little things don't mean much to me
My girl, I'd cross the whole world for someone like you
Oh oh, no matter where I go, oh oh,
My unpredictable girl, you're impossible girl,
You know that it's true, oh oh, no matter what you do
I'd cross the world for someone like you
Someone like you; a girl like you
Someone like you
You love the sing along when you don't know the words,
You lock your keys in your car right next to your purse, yeah,
No one sees you like I do
You only show up right out of the blue,
Then 20 minutes late, 5's early for you, yeah,
No one sees you like I do
Cause the little things don't mean much to me
My girl, I'd cross the whole world for someone like you
Oh oh, no matter where I go, oh oh,
My unpredictable girl, you're impossible girl,
You know that it's true, oh oh, no matter what you do,
I'd cross the world for someone like you
Yeah, you're perfectly imperfect, my love
Oh, I'll be waiting up all night because your little things, all the stupid things,
Oh, the little things, don't mean much to me
My girl, I'd cross the whole world, for someone like you
Oh oh, no matter where I go, oh oh,
My unpredictable girl, I'd cross the whole world for someone like you
Oh oh, no matter where I go, oh oh,
My unpredictable girl, impossible girl,
You know that it's true, oh oh, no matter what you do,
I'd cross the world for someone like you
Someone like you; a girl like you
Someone like you
I'd cross the whole world
A girl like you
Someone like you
Even before the song ended, the crowd already cried out loud and it's much more of a difference then the other. I turned to see Kaldur looking defeated, and Aria smiling at me, oblivious to the fact that the song was for her. Well, she can be sickly smart sometimes, but she's kind of still new to the concept of love I guess.
I see her turn to Kaldur to give him a small congratulation, but then something else flashed between her eyes. I've seen that look before. It's the look she has when she's playing with all her heart, it's the look she has when she sees her family's portrait. And I know what that look means, but its also different. It holds a stronger meaning in them, and its making me doubt my earlier thoughts. She's in love with this stranger? How can that be? Do they know each other somehow, or is it just love at first sight for her? I thought she didn't do that. She's careful with the people around her, but I can tell she has all her walls down to this guy. Just who is he?
(Aria's POV)
I feel that Kris wants to know something, and I turn to be faced with the truth. Would I be able to tell him about the team? Am I even allowed to tell him that? I only told him about the assassin thing, not the covert-league-of-teenagers-saving-the-world thing. Though he'd go crazy since he's a herophille, I can't really tell him can I?
Kris didn't say anything and just turned back to the crowd with a fake smile on his face. "Well, that's all for today." He spoke into the mic and the crowd let out a loud complaint, "Sorry, but we have places to go and people to see! See you all next week!" With that the crowd let out a final whine before leaving little by little, as Kris starts to pack up the stuff.
I just know that something's up. I turn to Kaldur to say something, but he disappeared somewhere. I would have ran to look for him, but I had to see if my best friend was alright. I walk up to him as he placed the money from his hat into his pocket, and he didn't even look at me. "Aria, there's nothing wrong." Of course he'd know what I was gonna ask, "I just feel tired today."
I can easily tell he's lying, so I cross my arms in front of my chest. "I doubt it. You're not ok. I tell you what's up, now it's your turn. And don't answer with the sky." The corner of his mouth didn't even twitch. Something is defiantly up. "You know you can tell me anything."
There was a short pause before he finally spoke, "You love that Kaldur person, don't you?" My eyes instantly shot out. Was it that easy to see? I feel my face grow hotter and Kris lets out a sigh, "I'm right. Just answer, do you at least know the guy?" I look at Kris square in the eye and I can tell he's worried that I fell in love with a man I don't even know.
I let out a soft sigh before finally filling the silence, "I do know him. He's a great guy, and he helped me out a lot." Something in my expression must of told him that it's ok since he dropped it and returned to the goofy fun loving friend I know and love.
"So," Kris held that vowel out a bit too long for comfort, "you've got yourself a boyfriend." And here comes the teasing. Is it too late to ask for the gloomy Kris again? "How come you never told me about him? I had to meet him like this, so you have to tell me now." Well here goes nothing. I opened my mouth to tell him some lie, but then I get another feeling of someone watching us. Better safe then sorry I guess. I have to check it out.
"I'll tell you, but first I have to check on something." I turn but then stop to say one last thing, "Meet me outside of the restaurant. I'll be there shortly after." I waved Kris goodbye and went to blend with the crowd. Time to see who's on my trail.
(Normal POV)
The team saw Kaldur walk away from Aria and Kris looking crestfallen, and headed towards him. They witness the whole thing and know what he's thinking since their minds were still linked. They were going to say something when they see Aria walk away from Kris and turned to each other before all deciding to confront Aria about what happened.
Kaldur was reluctant and stays a few paces behind the team as they follow Aria through the streets of Gotham. "Where's she going?" They all wondered in unison as they follow her through a back ally.
It was getting harder to see now even when the sun was at its peek, and what was to come was never expected. One minute they were all standing up and walking towards the end of the ally; and the next, they were suspended high in the air between the two buildings and what looks like a red net.
They all yelled in response and didn't know who or what did this. Kaldur snapped out of his daze and drawn his swords and shreds the nets to pieces. They landed in what looked like a pool of blood under their feet. Before anything could be said they heard movement behind them at the mouth of the ally. They all turned without question and came face to face with Aria, her eyes a blazing red, "I knew I had some tails behind me. Should have known earlier." She smiles to them, but it was just a mask to what she was really feeling, and that was hurt with slight embarrassment. "Do I want to know why, or should the reason for you guys following me be kept secret?"
Wally broke fearing what Aria would do if they kept silent, "We were curious and bored!" Everyone turned to him with a slight glare, but he didn't care. "Is that so wrong? You didn't have to be so secretive and make people curious that they'd do stupid things." Silence was his only answer as the air filled with tension.
The air finally lifted when Aria let out a sigh, "That's true, but that's still not a reason to follow me like a stalker." A wave of guilt ran through the team, but was soon washed away when Aria smiles at them, "I can't blame you guys, curiosity is what drives you all so it's no problem. Since you want to know what I do today, then follow me. There's one more stop."
"Wait," Dick spoke out, "Someone's hurt, we have to help them." He pointed to the blood on the floor, and it quickly moved on its own like a snake towardsAria. Everyone paled at the sight as they watch the blood have a mind of its own and fly back into a large cut on Aria's left hand. Aria's eyes shining a more brilliant shade of red as the wound closed instantly, and the blood was gone. Her eyes returned to their black gaze.
"What was that? It wasn't magic." Zatanna wondered out loud.
"I might never be able to un-see that." Artemis shivered, "You're just getting creepier the more we know." M'gann was the only girl who was speechless, as she grabbed hold of Conner so she could shield her eyes.
Aria shrugs, "Hey, my whole life was messed up. This is a new power I got after that whole incident last time. Apparently I get the powers the others got, so I can now manipulate my blood into different forms. I just learnt how to use it. It's actually not that hard."
"So that trap was an experiment? What if it failed?" Dick smirked.
"Then I would've knocked each one of you with these. That's how I got you last time." Aria takes out a hand full of thin needles out of nowhere. "Didn't think it'll actually work."
"What others do you have?" Conner stepped in, "I remember fighting one, and he had the same strength as I do."
"If its like the files say, then you'd have eight new powers." Dick remembered, "One was a blood manipulator, apparently he could also grow his limbs back in a matter of seconds. Another can make a person go insane by just looking directly into their eyes; a spell caster, with basic skills; one that camouflages like M'gann; another with speed; sharp vision.."
Kaldur cut him off, "And the ability to kill when they sing." Aria slightly shivered at the ice in his voice. She turns to look him straight in the eye, but he doesn't do the same. He was mad at himself for losing, and he doesn't want to face her knowing that what he promised with Kris will hold strong. Tension returned, and no one knows what's going to happen. "If you'd excuse me." He turns to leave, and left the ally.
But Aria wouldn't have it, so she told the others the address and who to meet before rushing to Kaldur's side. "Kaldur!" She scans the crowd and sees him heading towards the docks. Without thinking, she morphs into the environment and runs to where he was. She grabs him and pulls him toward another shadowed ally. Once inside she returns back and Kaldur wouldn't look at her, "What's wrong, why aren't you looking at me?"
"It's nothing." He still won't look at her, "I just need to go home." She grabs his arm to stop him, "Let go."
"No, what's wrong? Did I do something wrong? If I did, then tell me."
"It's not you." He looks at her shocked, "It's nothing."
"It's not nothing!" Hurt is painted all over her face, "You seemed fine before you and Kris went at each other. Your mood changed when he won." Realization fills her eyes, "You're bummed out of being beaten!?"
"No, like I said, it's nothing. I'm fine." He got his arm out of her grasps and she stood there looking lost.
"Please Kaldur. Why don't you tell me?"
"Because it's a waste of time. I can handle it." Without a second to waste, small arms encircle him, "Aria, let go."
"No, you helped me when I was down. Now it's my turn." Her grip on him is stronger now, "You're not alone. You have me here, and I'll help. Just tell me."
Kaldur let out a sigh, "Aria, are you really happy with me? She was left silent, not able to understand what he was saying, "I don't even know what I'm saying. I guess I'm giving up. I'm not a right match for you as Kris is. I guess what I'm saying is that you'd be happier with Kris."
"Are you stupid or something? Why're you comparing yourself to him anyways?" She let go of him, and placed her hand on his shoulder, "Please Kaldur, tell me what got you thinking this way." He didn't want to recall what happened, but the words came out without him knowing. And soon the string of events came out, along with his insecurities.
In the end he couldn't look her in the eye and found new interest for his boots. A heartbeat past and Aria slightly giggled, "Is that all?" He looked at her, and she placed her hand on his cheek, "Don't ever think like that. Those are just rumors which have no proof. I could never like Kris the way I like you. I love him as a brother, and we work well together because of that mutual feeling. I doubt I can every forget about you Kaldur, you saw practically everything and was able to put up with a mess like me. Just because I don't love you now, doesn't mean I won't later right?" She hugs him and softly whispers into his ear, "Plus, with what I had to go through, I'm careful of those who get close to me. So, it's less then likely for me to fall for a guy who can play music well."
With those words, he felt like a big idiot, and had a smile to match his new title. Kaldur wrapped his arms around her waist and buries his face into her hair, breathing in her very existent. Kaldur slightly backed off to face her again, and places his lips on top of hers. Not a moment past before she returns the kiss. He bites her lip for entrance, and she complies giving him full control.
Eternity came and they finally released each other. Aria placed her heard on his chest and listened to his heart play out a steady beat. "Sorry, I shouldn't have thought that way." Kaldur whispered into her ear.
"There's no need to apologies." She looks up at him and smiles, "You feeling better?" Kaldur nods and kisses her forehead. She was gonna say more, but her stomach rumbled cutting the words forming from her mouth. Kaldur couldn't help but laugh at her expression, "It's not funny. I'm hungry, and I can't help it."
"Then lets go to lunch." He suggests with a new smile.
She nods, "The others are with Kris, and he kind of wants to meet everyone. Is that ok?" She asked sheepishly, and he nods. They walk to the restaurant hand in hand, and meet Kris outside the restaurant. "Hey Kris." She waves, and the blonde boy waves back.
"If you're wondering, your friends are inside in the private room in the back." Aria nods and start heading in. Kris stops Kaldur before he gets to the door, "Actually, I'd like to talk to you for a moment. Alone." Everyone stopped and Aria moved away from the door, but Kris saw this and started to push her back inside, "Just go inside and order some food. We'd be there shortly." Without another word, he pushed her inside and he turns to Kaldur. "Let's go for a walk, shall we?"
Kaldur felt hesitant, but follows the older boy down thee street. A heavy cloud of silence flew between the two, and Kaldur couldn't slow his heart down as nervousness filled his gut. Seconds pasted before the beast of silence died off, "Look, there's nothing you have to worry about. I'm not gonna say to back off. And sorry about before." Kaldur looked at Kris, a bit confused, "I can tell you're a good guy by how Aria sees you. And trust me, she usually doesn't trust much people because of her status and all, and other factors. But you make her happy, so I can't say anything to stop you from being with her. It's been a while since I've actually seen her smile like that."
Kaldur let out a sigh of relief, but then choked when Kris threw a punch nearly hitting him in the jaw. Instead, it hits the wall beside him, and Kris's outstretched arm is inches away from his face. "But remember one thing. She's like a sister to me, so hurt her and you'd see the seven wonders of Gotham." A cruel smirk played on Kris's lips, and Kaldur could slightly see the red in his eyes. Without a word, Kaldur slowly nodded his head and the kind cheerful Kris came back. "Good, now lets get lunch. I'm starving." He pats Kaldur's shoulder and starts heading back to the restaurant. Kaldur blinked a bit to process what just happened, and realized that he was accepted by Kris. So taking a deep breath in, he followed Kris's example and went back to the others.
(Aria's POV)
Waiting at the restaurant and thinking of what's going on between them just made me more nervous. Really, anything could happen. I see them come in and my mind went blank. I fought the urge to run to them and ask what was that all about. And I barely made it. They came in like nothing happened, I'm just too curious!
During my little freak out, they both sat down opposite sides of me. I'm sitting at the end of the rectangle table and Kaldur was to my right, while Kris to my left. We did introductions and all that, and ordered our food. I feel kind of feel bad for the Langs since Wally would eat practically everything they have in stock. There was a sort of calm before the storm, ad that storm was Kris's desire to know details, "So, you claim to be friends of Aria's. How'd you all meet?"
Don't get me wrong, I can easily lie through my teeth, but Kris can always know when I'm lying to him or trying to hide something. Luckily for me, Artemis took this question, "From school. Aria and I have a lot of classes together." Half truth, the perfect lie. "We met since this dick was giving her some trouble, and I helped her with her troubles. I introduced her to my friends soon after."
Both Kris and Kaldur looked at me, "There's nothing to worry about. He doesn't trouble me anymore since Artemis helped me." They still looked worried, and I just had to wonder. Are they worried about me, or the other guy? They must think Artemis and I tagged teamed on him, how insulting. I only pictured hanging him from his pride and joy only five times, there's no need to worry there.
Kris was about to ask another question but then the food came. Mrs Luong came in smiling handing out the food smiling, "I'm so glad to see that little Aria has more friends." She pats my head having a proud look in her eyes. "And to think, we were worried that you'd only have Kris as your only friend. Now I can feel content that you're more opened to others."
"Ma, stop. You're embarrassing her." Tina, their only daughter aged 20, comes in with more food, "Besides, she was mostly shut in until now. Can't blame her for barely coming out much." She comes over to give me my bowl of food and bends down to whisper into my ear, "And Kris told me about your man, and let me tell you. You made a good choice." I felt my face quickly heat up as Tina leaves having a smirk painted all over. They both left, and I can faintly hear Tina laughing till it was caught of by the kitchen door.
Well, throughout the meal, Kris asked a bit more questions and also told some stories from when we were younger. There was also an episode of some team members having major difficulties in eating,
"Wally, give it up. Just use a fork." Artemis groaned after the tenth time of showing him how to hold chop sticks.
"No, I want to learn. I'm getting better anyways." He grabbed a couple pieces of noodles, but it escaped before it even went an inch away front the bowl. "Damn it. How can you do this?!" Artemis groaned again and showed him again.
Beside them, Dick was teaching Zatanna how to pick rice up with chop sticks. She's got eating noodles just find, so there's no problem between them. Conner gave up and just went with forks while M'gann was easily eating like she'd eaten this way her whole life.
Our eyes met and we had a short mind link conversation, "M'gann, do Martians eat like this to?"
"No, this is the first time I'm using chop sticks." She answered sheepishly, "I'm just using my psychic powers to help me."
"That's cheating!" I exclaimed, "Why don't you learn like the others?"
"There's different ways for people to learn. This is how I learn." She smiled and I had to suppress the urge to roll my eyes at her.
The conversation soon ended and I turned to see Kris talking to Conner about Superman. I chocked down the words begging to come flowing out when I saw that look in his eyes, Kris is a total fan. I look beside me and Kaldur was having some difficulties as well with his food.
He notices that I'm watching and gives an embarrassed smile, "It's harder then it looks."
I giggle a bit and rearing the way he was holding them, "There, that should help you. Besides, it's always harder the first time." (A/N: Let's leave now since there's nothin else to say, and on to a time skip!)
(Normal POV)
The sun filtered through the window, and light graced around the large bedroom. Monday morning and it's time for students to return to school after a week off in spring. Outside the birds sang their songs, and in the room Aria quickly got ready for the day. She hummed to herself as she walked down the stairs, every step seeming more cheerful then the last, as she got to the dining room for breakfast. "You seem really chipper today young miss." Alfred popped out of no where as always, and his face showed no emotion.
Recovering from shock, Aria could tell that Alfred was pleased to see her smile, "Well, it just seems like a day where nothing can go wrong." she smiled, feeling better then ever. But in a distance, hidden from view and sound. One lone crow caws out in a sign of farewell, and pain. And in that one second, the crow and Aria's eyes met before it flew away.
(Two days later)
The days were normal as before the incidents. Everyone would be at school, hang at the cave and trained. There was no missions and everyone was able to relax. But that was just the eye of the storm.
Two days, and finally a mission. It was the final lab for the Kages, and the justice league can't go in since its in the middle of a battle zone. So the team went and easily got in. There was no security and they were easily able to get in without a hitch. It was a bit too easy, but they just brushed it off thinking that it was just left and whatever was left of the researchers has retreated and thought nothing of it.
However, faith is never kind. They were heading back to the bio-ship when one by one they got knocked out by something. Around her, Shadow sees her friends on the ground. Fearing the worst, she checked all of them for vitals and to her relief they were breathing.
Without a second to lose, she located the culprit for their condition. A single blow tube needle, stuck with perfect accuracy to the vena cava, making for an instant blood contact. And she easily recognized who had done it, and what type by the smell emitting from the needle. "Come out coward." Her voice rang out, a mask to what she's feeling at the very moment. She stood there in the silence, listening for something.
Nothing came at first, but at the corner of her eye something shifted in the darkness and she threw some blades in that direction. It missed, only hitting trees, but a figure came out from the scene behind her taking her neck. "You changed Shadow. Let's see how much you've changed." Her whole body froze from he closeness of his voice, and memories of that night played over in an endless loop. "And don't worry about your friends, they won't die. Just in a deep sleep, and will wake when they're given the antidote." Blade stood in front of her, and she felt helpless and alone. Like that night.
"Blade. What are you doing here?" She spewed, but fear was just below the surface. She got into stance, but her hands slightly wavered.
Blade chuckled lowly as he took steps closer to her, slowly getting closer. 'What do you think I'm here for? Why would I come here after so long?" He looks around, taking in the scene. "So many memories in this one spot. Do you still remember that night?" Shadow blinked back thoughts; desperately trying to forget the pain, blood, screams, and lost. He smiled a sadistic smile and got closer as a harsh whisper left his lips, "You're mind can forget, but you know that you're body never will."
Shadow felt her breath hitch in her throat and her arms started to get lower as if surrendering. She couldn't help it, this man held fear to her, and she knows she might never forget it. Her mind was so muddled that she didn't see that someone else was now there with them. She closed her eyes trying to find refuge in the darkness, but the memory kept coming.
A crash came and her eyes flew open, temporarily clearing her thoughts. She looks again and sees Kaldur up on his feet and fighting Blade. "Get away from her." Kaldur grunted as they were separated by blades.
"And what if I don't?" Blade teased. They pushed off each other and walked around, measuring each other out. "What are you gonna do about it Prince Charming?"
"Anything I can do to get you away from her." He charges at Blade, and they're at it again.
They seemed equal in strength and agility, but the only tipper was speed. And Blade is able to stop him with just that. In a split second, Blade disappeared and came up behind Kaldur. A heartbeat and Kaldur falls to the ground. Shadow ran to Kaldur's side. He was still breathing, so her best guess was that he was knocked out by pressure to pressure points.
Shadow took a deep breath to swallow down the fear. Her thoughts where still muddy, but she needed to get that antidote from Blade and get him out of here. "Blade." A harsh whisper comes out of her as she felt rage slowly seeping into her, "Where's the antidote? I know you have it. You may be a bastard, but you always bring a vile with you." With a blink of an eye she's in front if him with her sword at his neck. "Give it up or we'll have a nice long talk."
Blade chuckled a little and pushed her off with a small true smile on his face, "I knew you look better when you showed emotion. And that's the only reason why I showed my face in front of you." Blade lowered his eyes and he removed his mask, both physically and emotionally. "You set us free, and I knew that you'd be stronger than any of us." His eyes showed genuine pride mixed with sorrow. "I know you won't trust me after everything I, I mean Blade, did to you. No girl should of went through that their first time, and I really regret what happened. But all those times I had this mask on, I was a different person. Now all I want is to live a normal life. I came back to see you to say thank you, and make sure you haven't become their pawn after what they've done to you." Shadow didn't know what to say. In front of her was one of them, a cold hearted assassin, looking down guiltily. But she knew also that it was all that amulet's fault. And the only way to end that amulet's effect was to kill its source, which she did. Now what stood in front of her was the shadow of a killer she once knew.
Questions flew through her mind, but the only thing that came out was, "Where's the antidote?" Her voice chocked up as she held her hand out for Blade to hand the vile to her. He did so quickly and she wrapped her hands tightly around like a life line. Shadow looks straight into his eyes and see a light shade of orange, easily mistaken for brown at a distance. In her mind, she would never connect this boy to the Blade and she couldn't bring herself to hate him. She felt sorry for him. Like her, he was forced into this life but he didn't have a choice. She did, she could have ended it long ago. She didn't need to wait eight years to finally end it all. She was already this strong five years ago, maybe a little weaker, but she would have been able to get that amulet and smash it, freeing them and ending the Kages then and there. But she didn't. That thought forced her next words out, "Don't thank me. I'm not the saint you think I am. I killed hundreds of people on my free will. Unlike you and the others, I was in full control of my actions. And I could have easily stopped it, but didn't. This would have ended soon, but I didn't move. And till the end, I'm still a killer. Our freedom costed the lives of many others."
"Yes, we all know that. We all knew what you had to go through. But, it wasn't all in vain. If you hadn't stopped Chorro at when you did, it would have ended half of the east coast. There would have been more lives that perished."
"Blade..."
He cut her off, "Call me Dylan." He smiled softly, "It's the name my grandfather gave me. And everyone of us have our own name and home to return to. We all feel guilty for what we did, and the only thing we can do now is live on and never forget the dead."
"But I killed a child under the same situation as us. I've killed Angel, and she was someone's 10 year old daughter!" Tears threatened to fall down her eyes now.
Dylan walked closer and placed a hand on her shoulder, "She wasn't under the same hypnosis. She was created by the lab. She held a mixture of all of us, but she was only able to show one power created by herself and that was from the last generation, which Chorro was part of. She wasn't raised like a normal child. If you hadn't stopped her, she would have been on a rampage and nothing would have stopped her. And you know that. It was either that or someone stops her, permanently." Silence fell over the both of them until Dylan spoke again, "And I'm not thanking you for freeing us, but for not being taken in by all that bull they were spewing. You didn't lose yourself and stayed who you were, and that was Aria Muses."
"How'd you know about that!? We never showed our faces once!" Her eyes grew wide, and for the second time today she wanted to punch his face in.
"I just knew." He grabbed her arm and pulled her close enough for him to be able to whisper into her ear, "I'm a fan." And a second later, he disappeared. Leaving her standing there with the antidote in her hands.
(Next day)
Thursday afternoon. Bright, but clouds blocked the sun from showing. Just a day where it looked grey. School was over, and Aria was walking around the park. She dressed like a normal street kid, so no one paid her any attention. Her mind was still filled with what happened last night, but it didn't bother her as much as she thought it would.
She scanned the area in search of the reason why she was outside. She found him sitting under a tree with his headphones blaring. Aria nearly rolled her eyes as she snuck up behind him. She placed her hand on his shoulder rapidly, causing him to jump out of his daze. As he glared at her, she just smiled looking all innocent, "Hey Kris!"
"Aria, why the hell did you do that for?" Kris grunts, trying to calm his racing heart.
Aria shrugs as she takes a seat beside him on the grass, "It's one of he few ways for you to get out of your daze." She turns to him all serious now, "Now, what are you gonna say that you couldn't tell me on the phone?"
Kris fell silent for a second before turning away. He knew it was gonna be hard, he just didn't know that it would have been this hard. He was grateful that Aria didn't push the matter, and they were both silent for a while. "You won't be seeing me for a while now." Aria couldn't understand so she stayed silent, hoping that he'll say more. "I'm going to California. This record company found us performing two weeks ago and asked if I wanted to join them. I said yes thinking that they asked for both of us, but they just wanted me." He finally had the courage to look at her, but her face showed little to no hint at to what she was thinking. But he continued speaking, "I'll be leaving later today. And I'm not sure when I'll be back. I'm getting picked to form a group with other talents they've found."
"So this is good bye I guess." Aria whispered softly. It grew silent again and Kris couldn't look again. He cursed himself for not telling her sooner. He should have denied the offer, he should have asked if she could join in to, but he didn't. Kris turned to apologize, but Aria stopped him. "Don't, thus is your big chance. You always said you wanted to go big to show your parents that you're not useless. Take it and don't look back. Time moves, and our paths separate only to recoiled again." She has a big smile on her face, "Besides, you said you'd like to rival me. Our rivalry wouldn't work if we're in the same group."
Kris chuckled to himself, feeling really stupid. "Ya." He answered, looking back into her eyes, "And I swear, the next time you see me I'd have a higher title then yours. You just have to wait."
Aria returned his challenging smile, "I'll be waiting, but time will pass and I'll only be getting better." They start to nudge each other and acted like they did when they were kids.
A few hours later, they said their final good byes at the air port. No tears were shed, and they both turned away. Each taking a step forward to the future.
(2 months later, Night)
Aria looked out on the terrace at Mt. Justice, letting her thoughts wonder everywhere and anywhere. The others were inside doing something, and she was just out here for some air. The night air is calm and the cool air is welcoming, yet she still wants something warm to keep her from getting a cold. Before she could move back inside she felt someone standing just behind her, "Aria, what are you doing out here?" She didn't even have to turn to know who it is.
"Just thinking." She answered. She hears movement and feels warm arms surround her.
"You must be cold out here." Kaldur whispered into her ear. "What are you thinking about?" He nuzzled his face into her neck causing her to let out a small moan.
"Just about things." She giggles as she pushes him lightly off her, "Stop that, it tickles." Her laughter was cut off with his lips placed on hers in a chaste kiss. She smiles and wraps her arms around him to deepen the kiss.
They let go and faced each other with smiles on their faces. Too bad the moment was ruined when Batman came and made his present known. The two teens jumps in surprise and face the Dark Knight. "Kaldur, I'd like to talk with you for a moment." His voice called leaving no room for argument. Kaldur wondered what happened and followed Batman back inside.
She was left alone again. Suddenly her phone buzzed and she took it out. Seeing that it's from her manger, Ms. Tomson,she answers wondering what she's calling for. "Good evening , how may I help you?"
"Aria! I have great news! The Gotham Symphony Orchestra is taking a tour around the world for three years and they need a new conductor ready for next week! I actually said that you'd be able to do it, so tomorrow you'll meet them and see how they're doing!" Her manager squealed excitedly through the phone. "So you think you can do it?"
Aria's eyes went wide in shock and she almost dropped the phone. This opportunity is huge, and she's just so young yet one of the top orchestras actually agreed for her to conduct them. She always wanted to do that, but then she'd be separated from her friends, for three years. Her mind went blank as her mouth just moved on their own, "That's amazing, but can I have a second to think about?"
"Of course." Her manger chirped, " It's a big decision, and I don't want to rush you. But you'd have to make one tomorrow since they'd be leaving soon. I've already emailed you the sheet musics they're playing, so just take your time and look through them." With that they set up a meeting place and time to meet, then said their good byes.
"What do I choose?" She sighed to herself, looking back up at the stars.
(Next day)
It was after school, and Aria was still staring at the pages of music given to her last night. Because of school, she wasn't able to look at it until now, and now she can't even decide on how she was gonna do this.
Frustrated, she walks to her piano to get her head straight and just starts playing what comes to mind. Her mind went back to last night to the event of when she told the team. They were supportive to her taking the opportunity, but she's still unsure for some reason.
She got up again and grabbed a random song from the top of her piano to play. It's a love song written as a duet for male and female singers, she likes the song and a lot of people do covers with it. 'Please be careful with me heart' stared at her and she just sighed. She felt fate was making fun of her, but she just shrugs it off and starts to play it.
(Aria singing) (Kaldur singing) (Together)
If you love me, like you tell me
Please be careful with my heart
You can take it, just don't break it
Or my world will fall apart
Without her knowing, Alfred lead Kaldur into the room. She was so into the song that she didn't even notice him getting closer.
You are my first romance, and I'm willing to take a chance
That til life is through, I'll still be loving you
I will be true to you, just a promise from you will do
From the very start, please be careful with my heart
She stopped singing as she couldn't get the male part. Kaldur smiled a bit, recognizing the song and started where she left off.
I love you and you know I do
There'll be no one else for me
Promise I'll be always true, for the world and all to see...
Aria stopped playing, shocked to hear a voice behind her. "Kaldur, what are you doing here? I thought you went back home to relax?"
He took a seat beside her on he bench, "I wanted to see if you're ok." He looked at the music, "I actually heard this song before. Is it ok if we do the song together?"
"Sure, from the top or when you come in?"
"From the beginning. It'll sound more complete." Aria nodded and started to play the intro. Kaldur watched as her fingers glides over the keys before her voice rings out in perfect harmony with the piano.
If you love me, like you tell me
Please be careful with my heart
You can take it, just don't break it
Or my world will fall apart
You are my first romance, and I'm willing to take a chance
That til life is through, I'll still be loving you
I will be true to you, just a promise from you will do
From the very start, please be careful with my heart
The moment she finished, Kaldur took no hesitation to get to his part. His voice bouncing off every corner of the big hall.
I love you and you know I do
There'll be no one else for me
Promise I'll be always true, for the world and all to see
Love has heard some lies softly spoken
And I have had my heart badly broken
I've been burned and I've been hurt before
So I know just how you feel, trust my love is real for you
I'll be gentle with your heart, I'll caress it like the morning dew
I'll be right beside you forever
I won't let our world fall apart
From the very start, I'll be careful with your heart
Then magic happens between them as they started to sing in sync with one another. Their voices morphing together with the music.
You are my first (and you are my last) romance
And I'm willing to take a chance (I've learned from the past)
That til life is through, I'll still be loving you
I will be true to you (only to you)
Just a promise from you will do
From the very start (from the very start)
From the very start (from the very start)
From the very start (from the very start)
Please be careful with...(I'll be careful with...)
(your) (my) heart...
The last of the notes sounded off the piano, and echoed back to the couple. A comfortable silence fell between them as Aria leaned her head on his shoulder. "Kaldur, what do you really feel about me accepting the offer? And tell me the whole truth please."
There was silence for a while before she heard him let out a heavy sigh, "If you really want to know, I feel conflicted." She turns to face him but said nothing to let him continue, "A part of me knows how important music is to you and I want to support you all the way, but another part of me is selfish and wants you to stay here." He grabs her hand and entwines his fingers with hers, "The only thing I'm certain about is that whatever you choose I'll be there for you." He placed a kiss on her forehead, "Just choose the path you know you wouldn't regret. And always remember that you have people who'll wish for your happiness. That's what I truly think."
Aria snuggled closer to Kaldur, "You know you're the greatest guy ever. You actually stayed with me through the baggage I've went through. I sometimes wonder how you can stick around after all that."
Kaldur chuckles again and brings her closer to him, whispering into her ear, "It's because you're worth it." Aria's face blow up into a red mess and he placed his lips on hers for a passionate kiss. She smiled, knowing that for now, everything was just perfect.
(A week later)
A group of people were rushing through security through the airport. Though they still had time, it took quite a while to get a lot of people through when its summer break.
Reporters were outside, hearing news of the new conductor. Luckily for Aria, she was already inside before the others came. Ms. Tomson was there with the girl acting like a worried mother, "Are you sure you brought everything you need? Did you properly say good bye to your friends before hand?"
"Yes Ms. Tomson. I've done everything I need to, now stop worrying and relax. We're going to Paris. You always said you'd go to Paris. So relax, I can handle myself. I'm nearly 17." Aria smiled sweetly at the older woman. Ms. Tomson let out a sigh and nodded sheepishly. She took a seat and decided to read a book to have the time go faster.
Aria smiled, content of calming her manager, and went to look outside the window wondering what her friends were doing at this moment.
The others were actually watching tv at the cave. They were kind of laughing at how big an event the media has made at the news of Aria becoming a conductor. The media was shooting live and waiting for the young musician to come, but they knew that she's already safe inside.
Kaldur watched the screen, but his eyes short of betrayed him. Dick easily sees that Kaldur wasn't feeling that well and decided to ask his leader about it. "Kaldur, you ok?"
Kaldur looks at Dick with a half smile, "I'm good. It's not like I'm never going to see her again." He turns back to the screen, "This world is small, and we'll see each other face to face soon. It'll just take time." Dick nods in understanding, somewhat. Kaldur smiles, looking down at the bracelet around his left arm. It's a simple chain, holding a rare light red pearl. Quietly remembering the quick yet memorable moment.
Aria did the same as she gazed at the necklace holding a matching red pearl. "The string that connects us." She says in a dream like state. She holds the pearl in her small hand and turns back to the window, watching as she's being flown up to the skies. "I'll be back." She whispers to herself before returning to the papers in front of her. "Time will fly before I even know it."
Well, there you have it! I'm finally done just to have the ending kind of suck on me. I was writing and writing getting great at it, then I got stuck on the ending. I'm sorry if it really sucks, but hey. It leads on a sequel! Maybe, who knows.
I just noticed that that sounded really corny. Ah but whatever. Thank you to everyone who has taken the time to review favorite and follow my story. I'm so touched that people arthis till following after a long time. And thanks to those people who voted! That really helped me.
Final thing, if you want a sequel, then just ask! Oh and tell me if I should keep the pairing or change it.
Thank you all again! Love you guys!