A DISCLAIMER
I don't own the characters of Generator Rex. This fic was written for fun!
THE LOST QUEEN
By Airshadow
CHAPTER XII
PROVIDENCE, PART II:
DISASTER
Vocabulary.
Mil. One thousand.
Sí. Yes
Reggie was walking together with her hermanito through the corridors that lead to her garden. She was told that she would have an important session that would help her to face one of her fears. Dr. Archie knew about the nightmares that she had since she was little, and he wanted to help her, as well as Becky, her sibling, and his tutor. What confused her a lot is why she was heading towards her Garden and not using the virtual reality goggles as she used to do. They finally arrived at the place. The door slid, allowing them to go inside while the ex-mercenary remained behind; once the juveniles were inside, the gate closed; Six walked calmly towards the control room where Holiday, beside Dr. Aldrich were watching from the window. The Second of Providence barely noticed that two Pawns were operating the computers, but he was surprised that a White decided to watch the exercise from the safety of his office using his CCTV. The former assassin joined the scientists. From above they observed the minors walking to an assigned point of the garden; it was clear enough to watch what was happening below.
Once they walked inside, they stopped in a clear area just under the window. The child gulped nervously, she knew that something important was about to happen. She was facing her brother, with twenty-two feet between them.
"Are you ready, Agent Rex?" asked the Old Doctor through a speaker.
"Am I ready? Of course, I am, I am always ready!" he replied, displaying his characteristic cocky smile.
"And you, Reggie, dear?" queried the Young woman using the same means.
"No. Are you sure that is a good idea?" she whispered using a timid tiny voice tone.
"Of course it is." assured the young scientist "Trust us."
"We're about to start, Little One." dryly said the former mercenary. Meanwhile, she nodded then looked at her hermanito, she swallowed nervously. She was able to listen to his tutor to add "We want you to stay there, and don't move." Then he commanded the teen EVO "Ok, Kid, show them up! "
Following the cue. The adolescent displayed his Smack Hands and landed them several feet away from his younger sibling. She squealed scared, she was about to run when a stern male voice commanded her "Stay put!"
She looked at his brother's mentor, she with an acute voice "I'm scared!"
"Stay put!" insisted the man whereas she cringed also looking genuinely scared. The Second of Providence looked at the Pawns and asked "Biometrics' status?"
"Heartbeat increasing. No signs of evolution to her full EVO form." Reported the subordinate. Six nodded whilst he watched the Little girl tremble with fear. He hated to do this to her, but it was the only way to make her face her fears.
"You are doing it right, Little One... Steady!" encouraged the ex-assassin as the Child whimpered. Many minutes passed along with the tension.
White broke the silence and said through the screen "We will try something else..." he commanded "Agent Rex! Move them forward... Reggie! Don't move!"
"I don't think that would be a good idea, to press her in that way. It's too early for that step." Commented Dr. Aldrich.
"She has to face her fears..." alleged dryly the Chief of Providence, then he ordered, "Move them forward!"
"Here goes, Sis, don't be afraid everythin' will be ok." assured the Adolescent. He started to move his builds towards his younger sibling. The minor started to shake and shrank as if she wanted to disappear.
"Stay steady." Encouraged the Adult.
"Sir!" warned one of the Pawns "Regina's biometrics have skyrocketed. Her cardiac rhythm has increased."
"Steady!" Insisted The ex-mercenary to the child, whereas it seemed that he hadn't heard what his underling had said.
The giant hands were pretty close. The nipper bit her lips, whilst she tried to hold her tears. She was scared to death. Her biggest fear was becoming true. Cold sweat was falling from her backbone, while she was overwhelmed by an irrational feeling of dread. Now, they were a few inches from her. She closed her eyes, in a vain attempt to deny their presence. The scarce Nanites that were on the ground warned her that her sibling's builds were two inches away for her. It was more than Reggie was able to stand and screamed with terror. A root quickly emerged from the ground. Rex, out of the corner of his eye, glanced at it coming but he wasn't fast enough to avoid it. He was hit by it with blunt force then crashed against the concrete wall. When she saw that, her silent tears turned in loud sobs.
"REX!" yelled Holiday whereas she and Six watched horrified at what just had happened. The young scientist ran towards the garden's entrance, hoping to find the juvenile relative unharmed. The former mercenary took a more direct route. He ran towards the window then jumped through it. Thanks to his skills, he landed unscathed and headed in the direction of the young one. Once he arrived, he started to check on him. The Little EVO was weeping bitterly when she saw what she had done. Unintentionally, she harmed her hermanito! Almost immediately his sibling's tutor arrived, she dashed towards the door.
"REGGIE! WAIT!"He screamed at the same time as he tried to retain her, but the Little One was fast and slipped away sobbing loudly. The Young Woman arrived shortly after, then started to examine the teen EVO. He was stunned but fine, he only had just a few minor scratches. The Doctor led him towards the infirmary to run a quick scan. The Second of Providence followed and stopped just outside the garden's entrance. He looked on both sides of the corridor, there wasn't a trace of Reggie.
He moved his hand towards his ear-link communicator, a voice with a professional tone spoke "Here Security Center. How may we help you, Agent Six?"
"I need you to tell me where Regina went! I need to know if she still is inside the Safe Zone." dryly asked the former assassin.
"Affirmative. She has been seen heading towards the Principal Quarters." reported the Pawn "Do you want me to send some guards to escort her back towards you?"
"Negative. Keep an eye on her." He retorted then added, "Report it if you see her leave the area."
"Yes, Sir." Responded to the Security officer. The ex-mercenary frowned, he had an idea where she went.
o0o – o0o – o0o
The nipper stormed in her bedroom and ran towards the bathroom, she headed towards the closet, she opened its gate and hid inside. She started to cry aloud. She had hurt her sibling again! She was a bad girl! She didn't hear the calmed footsteps that approached the place. Some knocks in the closet's door caught her attention, and a well-known voice requested "Reggie, come out."
"No." a sobbing tiny voice replied.
The adult raised his eyebrows; he didn't want to drag her out of her hideout, but he had little patience for this childish behavior. With a more severe tone, he insisted "Regina..."
The Adult heard that the sobs coming from inside increased, he was thinking what to do when he listened to the sound of footsteps behind him. When he looked toward the entrance and noticed that Holiday had arrived followed by Rex. The Kid looked relatively good, using only a Band-Aid on his cheek.
"Is she there? "asked the Young Scientist with concern.
"Yes and she refuses to come out." He confirmed.
"I know how to convince her." assured the teen EVO with his usual cocky smile.
"Enlighten me." dryly retorted his mentor whilst he raised an eyebrow.
"Wait for me outside here." replied the young one while he left the room. The Young woman looked puzzled at Six, who shrugged. They waited a few minutes, till he came back holding a chocolate bar, her favorite brand in fact. The adolescent sat down on the bed and started to tie it in what seemed to be a large cord. After some testing, he was satisfied.
"So?" Questioned The ex-mercenary "What do you have in mind?"
"You will see..." said the juvenile grinning.
o0o – o0o – o0o
Reggie was slowly calming her crying inside the closet, she didn't know for how long she was there. She still was deeply sad because she had hurt her sibling. He must be mad at her! Just thinking about it made her cry again. She was lost in those melancholic thoughts when she heard a hit in the closet's gate. It wasn't too hard, but it was enough to catch her attention. She cleaned her nose with the back of her hand. She silently and carefully listened without opening the door. It was silent outside, it seemed that nobody was there. She hesitated and slowly opened it less than an inch. Yep! Nobody outside. She was about to close it when she noticed something on the floor: A CHOCOLATE BAR!
She smiled a faint smile and opened the gate a little bit more. She got on her knees and spread her arm to reach it. To her surprise, the candy moved a few inches away. She blinked perplexed, with caution she opened more the door and crawled a bit away from her hideout. She was about to lay a hand in the candy when it moved again; this time several feet away, close to the room's exit.
The nipper stood up and slowly approached. Once that she was close, she walked slowly towards it, it didn't move. She grinned and stooped to capture the snack. She was starting to remove the cord and the wrapper when someone dressed in orange and black jumped from the other side and quickly hugged her. Reggie startled and before she could react, she saw herself held close by her hermanito and they swirled around, at the same time as Rex ruffled her hair.
"LOOK WHAT I JUST FISHED!" happily announced the teen whilst he and his sister sat down on the bed. As soon as she felt the soft surface under her, she tried to run back to her hideout as she held tightly to the chocolate bar.
"Leaving so soon, sis? I'm so wounded." pouted at her sibling while he looked at her eyes. He was kindly holding her back by her shoulders.
"I'm sorry! I didn't mean to hurt you! "sobbed the little girl whilst she lowered her eyes.
"For what? For this?" he replied, pointing the Band-Aid that he had on his cheek. The Little One nodded with her eyes full in tears. The young EVO shrugged and retorted as if it wasn't important "It's just a scratch. Compared to what others have done to me, this is a caress."
She hugged him and her brother did his best to comfort her. The bedroom's door slid, everyone present looked at Dr. Aldrich, who walked inside, relaxed as if nothing had happened, he spoke with a soft voice "First of all, Little Miss, are you ok?" She shook her head without saying a word. The doctor looked at her and kindly asked "On the scale of one to one hundred, what was your level of fear?"
"Mil." chirped the child, as her sibling looked at her puzzled.
"We will work on that." The old man responded calmly, as he was talking The Leader of Providence appeared on the screen.
"It seems you have the situation under control." commented dryly the albino man whilst he looked sternly at the group.
"Her fear was totally expected." observed the Psychiatrist "What I didn't anticipate was how her Nanites reacted. Supposedly, the low concentration of them would prevent their use. It seems that when Little Miss felt threatened, the adrenaline made them react."
"We will check your theory later, doctor; right now we will try it again." answer back sternly. The nipper paled and shook her head, refusing to attempt it one more time.
"Leave her alone, White!" replied defiant the teen EVO at the same time as his little sister snuggled next to him, seeking his protection "She's scared!"
"She needs to overcome her fears, boy." growled the Chief of Providence "It's the only way to avoid that she becomes a menace..."
"In fact, Sir, it was enough for today." The Psychologist intervened "It would be counterproductive to try again and put more pressure on the girl. That could cause an... Undesired reaction. Besides, it could also generate a negative psychological impact on her and aggravate her condition. My suggestion is to finish for today and review the data obtained, to determine the best options."
White reluctantly agreed and didn't press the subject any further, the Screen turned off. The Doctor looked at the child and said with a kindly tone "Miss Reggie, the session is over for today. You did it way better than I expected, despite how it ended. We will take a break before trying it again. Don't worry about it and have fun with your toys. Doctor Holiday, could you come with me, please? I'd need to know your point of view about the data we have collected and considering your expertise, it will be useful."
"If you don't mind, Doctor Aldrich, I would like to be present." commented calmly the Second of Providence.
"That's a good idea, Agent Six. I'd appreciate any input you can give to the subject." calmly replied the Psychiatrist and added, while he looked at the minors "Well young ones, I'll see you soon."
Both doctors left the place followed by the former assassin. Rex looked at his youngest sibling and with a complicit smile, said "Do you want to go to the mess hall for ice cream and after that play Tag?"
"YAH!" the little girl shouted with enthusiasm. Both walked together towards the mess hall to get the promised snack.
o0o – o0o – o0o
White growled. He was watching from the safety of his Nanite-free environment, the recording of the last Reggie's exposure therapy session. He didn't need to be a genius to deduce that things didn't go exactly as they wanted, and he wasn't sure how bad it could become if they don't find out how to keep them in check. So far he was told, her skills should be limited to the Devil's Garden, but it seemed that her Nanites had decided otherwise. To find out what happened, they needed to understand how they evolved so fast.
In front of the screen where his image appeared was Doctor Aldrich, who was sitting in one of several conference rooms the HQ had. Jointly he was Six and The Top Scientist of Providence; only the spot where the big screen was clear, but two other equally big screens were on both sides, just in case that was necessary to watch other things at the same time. The antiseptic environment that characterized Providence's architecture was present: The walls were immaculate white. The floor was light gray. The table where the assistants were sitting was circular and quite wide. Embedded in front of each place were computers that operated by touch.
"Can anybody explain to me how this happened?" dryly asked the Chief of Providence.
"Reggie said that outside the Devil's Garden, she can barely sense the Nanites. When I ran the tests in the Doll's House, she ended very tiredly. Theoretically, she would have to make a big effort to summon the root." replied Holiday, then she pressed some buttons, the screen switched to another image, showing the minors and their simian friend playing Tag in the same moment that they were talking, then she commented "As you can see, she is very active. With no signal of tiredness."
"I dare to guess that her skills were forced to evolve themselves to protect her, and the scarce number of them was another obstacle to overcome. The nanites just acted to defend her." Theorized Doctor Aldrich while he watched the giant screen in which the Leader of Providence appeared.
"How so?" inquired the ex-assassin.
"How do you summon a trained dog, Agent Six? You call it or, you use a whistle. But if the dog senses that its master is in danger, it just attacks and neutralizes the menace." explained the Psychiatrist "The Nanites that were in the ground sensed Reggie's fear, and they reacted in consequence."
"The Kid wasn't a menace." Reminded the aforementioned.
"I'm afraid that hers aren't so discriminatory. They are, by now, only reactionary. She felt in danger, they acted on the result." The doctor typed in the computer in front of him, the ones in front of the meeting attendance, the image switched to graphics, and other data were displayed in their respective gadgets. Aldrich continued " As you can see, according to the data acquired from the session, the root attacked Rex at the same time as her cardiac rhythm was high and her biometrics displays the 'flight or fight' reaction."
"The dog protecting its master." whispered the Young Woman.
"Exactly." confirmed the old Doctor "I dare to suspect that this is the first step of her skills' evolution. But I'm not qualified to assure it."
"The only way to find it out is continuing with her training and evaluations." said Six with his characteristically flat tone.
"I agree with that." Granted Holiday. The image in the computers changed to the minors and the chimpanzee, who were playing Tag in the little one's garden.
"Is there a way to predict how strong her Nanite will become? or how will they evolve?" Asked The Second of Providence.
"I'm afraid, it doesn't." replied the young Doctor "So far, it doesn't exist two EVOs with similar skills to have a reference and try to predict how they will evolve. Even if it were the case, hers could do another unexpected turn to ensure her survival. Only her Nanites could provide some clues. It's a pity that we can't speak with them and straight forward ask them."
"What about Agent Rex?" queried The Chief of Providence with a serious tone "His Nanites have done contact more than once."
"But only in extreme situations." Clarified the young woman "They are only willing to talk with us just when they deemed necessary. So far we know, they aren't very fond of Providence."
"If you allow me to give my input on the subject, I may have an idea how to contact them; but we need his cooperation." started to suggest Dr. Aldrich.
"One second..." Interrupted young scientist, even though she was attending the meeting, still, she kept an eye in the minors like a hawk, thanks to the cameras that were placed in the Garden. She opened a com-link and said "It's dinner time! Don't forget to wash your hands and go to the mess hall. We'll be there shortly."
"AWWWW! can we play a bit more? We are having fun!" whined the Little One.
"Killjoy." Muttered Bobo.
"Oh! C´mon Doc! It's too early!" Second the Adolescent.
"You heard Doctor Holiday. Playtime is over!" responded the Second of Providence with his flat tone.
"They sound like our parents." Grumbled the teen EVO while they started to walk towards the Garden's entrance.
"I think that they would be good parents." replied bluntly the nipper whilst the young woman felt slightly embarrassed when she heard that, the only ex-mercenary reaction was to raise an eyebrow. They suddenly heard the girl's tiny voice "Rex, if Six and Becky are like our parents, what would White be like?"
"The Grumpy Uncle who nobody likes." stated the Monkey with a malicious grin.
"I HEARD THAT!" shouted angrily The Leader of Providence as the Simian jilted and ran quickly towards the door. Disappearing from the camera angle.
"Continue, Doctor Aldrich." spoke dryly The Albino man, once the communication with the youths was closed.
"Rex reported that every time they took control of him, he doesn't remember what he said or do during the event." retorted the Psychiatrist "It seems that his mind is in an altered state of consciousness. I guess that with the help of hypnosis, we can recreate it; I expect that the Nanites would be encouraged to answer us or they would block the effects. Also, to appease any mistrust that they may have, I suggest that Agent Six be present in the session;" Looking at the former assassin, the old Doctor added" so far I understand, they didn't consider you a... Menace."
"That will help us to investigate in deep, Reggie's abilities." suggested Holiday "That will help us to determine how we can help her to control them."
"Sounds like a plan." growled Providence's Chief "I want those sessions to be scheduled as soon as possible and extract all the information that you can. Keep me updated on any progress. You can leave."
With any further comment, White finished the transmission and the computer's screen turned black. The meeting attendees took their belongings and left the place.
o0o – o0o – o0o
Reggie, Rex, and Bobo were taking their meal in the VIP zone of the mess hall; when Six and The Top Providence's Scientist arrived, they watched them eating their dinner and laughing. The Young Doctor did a sad smile, it was how it should be, they should be in a caring family and not like lab subjects. But until they find their parents and elder brother, that would be a wishful thought... Not to mention that The Chief of Providence dreaded the day that that would happen; it was well known that if his parents didn't approve his role in Providence, and she didn't doubt it that it would be the case; their only cure known from the EVO Issue, it would be legally out of their hands. She was pondering those glooming thoughts when Reggie noticed their presence, she beamed and greeted them, waving her tiny hand.
"Are you enjoying your dinner?" asked the Young scientist with a smile.
"YAH! Bobo is the Best Cook in the World!" said cheerfully the little girl.
"Finally!" replied the chimp while leaped behind her and ruffled her hair making her giggle "Someone recognize my skills."
The laugh muted when the EVO alarm started to sound. Holiday started to talk with someone using her ear-link communication. Six looked significantly at, the teenager nodded; with agility, he left his seat with a jump and uttered to his simian friend "Time to work, Are you comin'?"
"This will be fun!" answered his pal whilst he jumped down and ran towards the exit.
"Can I go?" spoke the nipper at the same time as she climbed down her chair and was willing to follow them.
"No." sternly reacted the former mercenary, as Reggie pouted. He wasn't moved and added "This is a dangerous operation and you are too young for this. Maybe when you are older, you may go."
"A millennium will pass before I grow up." Protested the child "I want to go with you, now!"
"Regina..." warned the Agent.
"Sis, this is serious; we don't want you to get hurt." spoke her elder brother, with a conciliatory tone "I promise if you are a good girl and stays here, we'll bring you a gift."
"You promise?" inquired the minor at the same time as she crossed her arms and frowned with suspicion.
"Yah!" he assured.
"Ok." She replied but looked disappointed. With a final hug, the teen departed together with his handler and the Chimp. Holiday approached slowly and behind her was a slender female Providence trooper. She had green eyes and brown hair. Reggie smiled when she recognized her and voiced cheerfully "Wade!"
The aforementioned gently laid a hand in the Little One's shoulder. The young trooper was assigned to keep an eye on her more than once when the Top scientist of Providence was absent. In the beginning, she thought that she would be just as unbearable as her arrogant sibling. But, to be fair, Rex's egotism had already deflated a little in the last weeks and his baby sister wasn't so terrible.
"Reggie." said seriously the Young Scientist "I need to go to work, Wade will supervise you take your dinner and bath. I don't need to remind you to behave."
"I'll be, Becky!" chirped the minor.
"Don't worry, Doctor Holiday. I'll take care of her and I'm sure that she will keep out of mischief. Everything will be done according to her schedule."
The young Scientist nodded with her head and headed towards the Briefing Room, where she would monitor, as usual, their missions. Wade looked at Regina, and asked kindly "Which fairytale do you want I read you for bedtime?"
"Cinderella!" replied happily the girl.
o0o – o0o – o0o
Several hours had passed after the EVO alarm rang; the situation was controlled as expected; following the protocol after the subject was cured, Providence transferred him towards one of its local centers to verify and certify that his Nanites were stable. If everything was ok, he would be discharged in twenty-four hours once it was confirmed that all was within acceptable parameters. Rex and Six, together the rest of their team came back home; it was late in the night and the teen was exhausted, before he went to get well-earned sleep time, he walked toward his sibling's lodgings.
The door slid, Wade was sitting on the couch reading a book. Her attention changed when she heard the silence broken by footsteps. She moved her finger towards her lips, asking for silence. With a significant glance, she pointed towards the bed. Reggie was sound asleep, her hair was loose and was hugging her beloved rag bunny.
The Young EVO couldn't hold a smile; rabbits were her favorite animals; it wasn't a surprise that her favorite pajamas had a white rabbits print with a salmon pink background. It seems that her preference was the result that the late Doc Nat was allergic to dogs and Doc Rylander had the same issue with cats. The adolescent felt a hand in his shoulder; when he turned his head, he saw his handler. He spoke in a low voice with his characteristically flat tone "Go to sleep, Kid. You earned it."
With a nod, he agreed. Wade started to walk towards them. The juvenile expressed when he saw her approach "Thank you, Wade."
"You are welcome." replied the trooper, after the young one entered his own quarters, the Providence Soldier took a more formal pose and said "Ready to report, sir: Everything was done according to the schedule and Reggie behaved as expected. The only issue was that she had a nightmare, nothing to worry about."
"Good." uttered dryly by the man "You are dismissed."
"Thank you, Sir." said the soldier "Have a good night."
The female trooper walked away. The Second of Providence walked inside the place without making a noise, still, he had a promise to fulfill. He left on the night table a special gift for the little EVO wrapped in pink paper: A pair of sunglasses with a white aplastic frame, and decorated with a red ladybug in each one of the top parts of it. He bought it especially for her. After this, he tucked her blanket, and he left in silence the room; heading to his own chambers to rest. When she woke up the next morning, she found the little gift. She was delighted with it and she wore them the whole time.
o0o – o0o – o0o
Six calmly walked down the corridor with Reggie strolling behind him. The agent stopped just in front of the door of her garden. She knew that something very important was about to happen and she feared that she had to face her hermanito's Smack Hands. She still remembered the disastrous session that they had had several weeks ago, it was something that she would have rather not to do again. The Young scientist had a hard time convincing her that it was for the best, she needed to better control her skills and overcome her fears. Even he agreed to that and promised her that nothing bad would happen this time.
"Are you nervous, Little One?"
She looked at the ex-mercenary, he had kneeled; in that way, he looked less intimidating. His normally grim and cold gesture looked less severe. The minor nodded. The man added "Everything will be ok. Do you trust Doctor Holiday? And me?"
The child did an affirmative gesture in each question. He started to type the code that would allow him to come in the area.
"Are you sure that it's a good idea?" chirped the little girl.
The adult stopped and looked at her, he inquired with his characteristically flat tone "Do you know what would happen if your brother dares to pull a prank using his builds?" the little one shook her head negatively, the Second of Providence continued while he showed with his right hand a toothbrush "He would have to do some cleaning work."
"He will spend hours before he can finish..." She pointed out.
"That's the idea" replied Six with a knowing grin that only lasted a few seconds. She giggled.
The agent finished typing the code and they entered the garden, Rex was there, waiting for them. The juvenile greeted them and said trying to encourage his youngest sibling "Everything will be ok, Sis, don't worry."
She smiled nervously and followed the adult towards the other extreme of the garden. They stopped, the little one looked at the man and asked, confused "Six. Why are you here? Why aren't you with Becky?"
"Because this time we will address the situation... We will do things differently." he corrected when he noticed the confusion in her face. Then he looked at the Adolescent and uttered coldly "We are ready. Kid."
Holiday looked at her young ward and the former assassin entered the garden. She decided to keep a close look over them and avoid that the same issue that happened several weeks ago repeated. Close to her was Dr. Aldrich, who wanted to supervise the session personally this time. The atmosphere was tense. The Young scientist couldn't shake off the sensation that something was off, but she couldn't point out what it was. She focused on the screen, she couldn't' afford a distraction in such a critical moment. Rex summoned his Smack Hands. The Little child paled when she watched them. With a muffled yelp, she dashed to hide behind the Former Mercenary, seeking his protection. "Reggie, step forward." spoke an emotionless voice. The little one shook her head, she had the same expression as a cornered rabbit. Six raised an eyebrow, and asked her "Do you trust me?"
She shook her head with a positive gesture. He added dryly "Step forward, everything will be ok. This time, I'll stay with you."
She obeyed. She started to feel the grip of fear while the minutes passed with painful slowness.
"Well, Kid, onward..."
Her eyes opened wide. Cold sweat started to fall in her backbone.
"Steady." commanded the same voice.
The little girl began to shake.
"Report!" questioned The Top Scientist of Providence whilst she continued monitoring the situation inside the room above the garden.
"Her cardiac rhythm is increasing together with her biometrics." said one of the Pawns.
Holiday opened the mic. She wanted to be ready for everything at the same time as still continuing to monitor the situation. She saw the adolescent's builds almost reach the Little One and the Agent. In fear, she clings to his legs, seeking his protection. The adult remained impassible as a stone statue.
"Step forward." encouraged the man calmly.
"Six…" She begged. She didn't want to move ahead. They were around them.
"Everything would be ok." Assured the man.
Slowly the child moved in front of the Adult, without stopping shaking. They were in that position for a bit; for her was an eternity.
"Reggie, you said that you trust me, right?" asked Six, breaking the silence. She looked at him and nodded affirmatively. He continued "What I'm going to ask you to do will be difficult: I want you to close your eyes and don't open them till I tell you so. Can you do that?" the nipper nodded, he added, "Do it, please. Close your Eyes."
The girl did as instructed. She was scared. The Nanites on the ground warned her about the threat that still surrounded her. She was shivering. How long should she have to wait with her eyes closed?
"Reggie, open the eyes."
When she did it, she gasped with terror. She saw Six standing near her hermanito! She was about to run towards them when the Former mercenary stopped her with a gesture. She trembled in fear. Inside the room, Holiday watched alarmed the computers. The minor's biometrics' were skyrocketing again, while Dr. Aldrich frowned. The only ones that remained impassive were the teenager and his mentor. Some noises around them started to be heard and the ground started to break.
"Six..." Pointed out a nervous Rex.
"I know, Kid" replied dryly the man, and added calmly whereas he watched the little EVO without moving "You are doing a good job, Little one. Remain still."
"I'm scared!" she said as she was starting to sob.
"Remain still."
Several roots appeared very close to the Agent and the adolescent, surrounding them; but they didn't flinch. One of them was less than an inch to touch Six. Before something happened, they suddenly stopped, as if they heard a command. It seemed that the Child didn't want to hurt her sibling nor his tutor. After several strained minutes, the roots started to retreat slowly and came back to the underground. For Reggie's horror, her brother's builds started to move close to her. She froze in fear and closed her eyes. She was caught! She started to sob, she was being moved. Something was moving her!
"Open the eyes!"
"Everythin' will be ok, Sis!"
The EVO obeyed and she saw herself being carried gently by her hermanito's big hands. She noticed him in front of her, slowly approaching him. She was scared and sobbing, barely moving. Soon she saw her sibling embracing and comforting her, at the same time as he rocked his body back and forth.
"Don't worry, sis. It's over." whispered the juvenile whereas he hugged her tightly. She nodded whilst she started to calm down. Quiet steps approached the youngsters, when they looked up, they saw Six. He was composed and controlled, as he usually was.
"You did a good job, little one, we are done for today." He said with a faint grin. The minor nodded. Inside the Control Room, Holiday smiled proudly while she removed her ear-link; for her little protégé, it was a huge step forward. She couldn't wait to analyze the new data with Dr. Aldrich and discuss her progress with him. This gives her hope that she might live a sort of normal life.
o0o – o0o – o0o
His patron wasn't pleased, and that worried him. The prey that he requested scurried away in the Devil's Garden and that meddlesome Agent was more vigilant than usual. He had avoided him for a long period of time, but the game was about to end. Even with the involuntary help of Walters, he wasn't able to shove away that bogeyman dressed in green from his business. It seemed that he suspected his ruse, despite his effort to keep a low profile. If he didn't find the way to hand over the brat at Van Kleiss, he was going to make him pay dearly for the thousands he was given and he kept in his secret bank account. On the other hand, the perspective to be caught by that busybody named Six was equally alarming; if half of the things that he heard about The ex-mercenary were true, being interrogated by him wouldn't be pleasant... More or less the same result if he failed Van Kleiss one more time. No doubt that he was in between a rock and a hard place, the wisest move was don't stay in the middle, and he wouldn't be for long. He had to be patient; mostly because his objective was out of his reach, by now; Luckily, he had an idea how to capture her... He only needed the passcode of the late Walters and a little help.
o0o – o0o – o0o
Six was more than satisfied with the session's results and walked to discuss the data with those who had a major involvement in the session. He hoped to get clear data about the Little One's abilities and how to help her to overcome her PTSD and improve the control of her Nanites. He arrived at the room where Holiday was, she was inside reviewing the information together with Dr. Aldrich. They stopped to watch the laptop that they had in front of them when they heard the door slide.
"Good to see you Agent Six" greeted the old Doctor.
"Doctor Aldrich, Holiday." Questioned dryly the man. He took a seat close to them. "I presume that you are studying the data collected."
"You are right." replied kindly Galen while adjusting his glasses "Do you want to join us?"
"Sure." answered the Second of Providence whereas he took a chair and sat close to them. He did a quick glance and asked in his usual flat tone "Where's The Kid?"
"The county fair is set near the city; Noah, Annie, and Claire wanted to go, he thought that would be a good idea that Rex and Reggie had some fun and invited them too." Explained Holiday at the same time as she was checking the data.
"And you let them go?" He inquired surprised.
"Of course" responded calmly the young Scientist.
"I'm surprised that White hasn't protested yet."
"Well, it wasn't easy convincing him." retorted Holiday with a sigh "I only had to tell him some facts and good arguments."
"Like which ones?"
"Well..." replied the young woman while she looked at her interlocutor, "I told him that Rex's unauthorized trips outside the HQ dropped a 45%, including his night-snack trips since Reggie is with us; if he isn't busy taking care of her, he is too tired to do mischief. I suggested to him that as well as bad behavior should be punished the good one should be rewarded. It's why I think that it was a good idea to allow them to go. Moreover, Rex promised me that they should be back before the dark; I made him clear that if that wasn't the case he would be grounded. Wade and Beasley are with them, for extra measure; I suggested them wear civilian clothes. I instructed them that if an EVO emergency happens, Rex should join us, whilst Noah and the others, have to take her at his house and stay there. Also, they have to call me to pick up her once the situation is solved. Besides, I reminded White that Doctor Zabala wanted a normal life as possible for the Little One, and going to a fair is one of the closest things to normality that she can experiment with. I also told him that if he authorized the trip that would ease his relationship with Rex, and would help to make him more willing to follow orders. I only see the positives."
Six didn't say anything. If there was something that he admired about Holiday, it was she was an optimistic point of view of life. He almost envied that trait, she was so unlike him. She never has seen the degree of deprivation and corruption that humanity could reach like him. He hoped that she never would and forever remain ignorant of the unpleasant side of life. Being honest, she had good arguments, the idea was good and the Kid deserved a treat once a while. Without any further comment, the Agent sat down and started to discuss the results with the doctors.
o0o – o0o – o0o
"It's almost time."
Six looked at Dr. Aldrich, both men were inside the briefing room. Several days had passed since the last session. They were watching Noah and Rex playing basketball in the Gym thanks to one of several screens that the place had. The Former Mercenary knew that today was the day that they would try to establish direct contact with The Young EVO' Nanites. He was worried, even though his face didn't show emotion. They never had attempted something like that before, and he wasn't sure how the micro-bots would take something like this, which made it harder to predict what to expect. All hoped that it was a pacific dialog; in the worst-case scenario, they expected that they refused being called and overruled hypnosis. Although some scientists were excited to speak directly with the micro-machines. In his personal opinion, the ex-Assassin was afraid that they were opening Pandora's box. In their last dialog, they stated their dislike and distrust for Providence. They hoped to keep the conversation civil and got some useful information.
"Nervous about what we are going to attempt?" asked the psychiatrist politely.
"Assessing the situation would be more accurate." responded dryly the man "What we are going to do would send us to an uncharted territory."
"It may be our only alternative to establish direct contact with the Nanites." replied the Old Doctor.
"I know." said the ex-mercenary without stopping to look at the screen. Reggie had joined them, he did a smile that quickly vanished when he saw the little one attempt to play basketball with them and failed.
"We should better start the preparations, Agent Six" commented The Galen "I have reserved the Room Gamma to do the session. We can start in two hours."
"I'll remind the Kid about his appointment. I'll see you there, Doctor. " retorted dryly the man while he watched the minors interact and had fun.
o0o – o0o – o0o
"Anddd Rexxx avoided the enemies! He flanked the defense! He's ready to score a..."
"Could you just shut up and shoot it!"
The Young EVO looked at his friend whereas he still holds the basketball's ball, they were challenging each other who would win the first scoring the HQ's gym. Even though his chances to hit the basket was zero to none, it was the best excuse for the friends to relax and talk from serious issues to the typical teenagers' subjects.
"Are you afraid that I will basket it this time?" replied the Young One with a cocky grin.
"You will get one when a giant Robot attacks Providence." teased Noah. Both laughed.
"What are you playing!? Can I play too? Please! Please! PLEEEaaasse!"
They looked where the childish tiny voice came; Reggie, as Rex used to say, was using the power of the Puppy eyes to get away with whatever she wanted. Only his Nannie in Green seemed to have immunity to them.
"Can I play?" She said with a cute smile.
"Do you know how to play basketball?" asked the blonde teen. The nipper did a negative gesture. Noah explained at the same time as he did the movement "You have to bounce the ball... Rex will try to stop you and take it "He continued the explanation while he evaded his friend, who tried to take the ball. He moved towards the score "Then, you have to move close to this point and throw the ball highest as you can..." The ball entered the hoop. He looked at her and encouraged "See, it isn't too hard."
He passed gently the ball to the little one and let her try it. She started to bounce the ball with both hands.
"It's with just one hand." He clarified. The minor pouted but she tried to control the ball and attempted it again with one, it rolled towards her sibling after two bounces.
"How, I did it?" she inquired as she looked at them with disappointment.
"Not bad." expressed her hermanito. She smiled a wide smile. Her sibling added while he gently gave her the ball "Now try to throw it as high as you can and score."
She did all as instructed, but failed. She was so disappointed!
"Let's try again, but I will help this time." offered The teen EVO, then he summoned a small version of his smack hands and placed them under her armpits, then he asked "Ready?"
"Sí" She chirped.
"I will assume that that's a 'yes'. " he remarked, and started imitating sports commentators among her baby sister's giggles "ANndd, the little Reggie avoided the defenses of the opposite team...! She did a super JUMP! " He shouted that at the same time as elevated her at the same level as the basket and added at the same time the child introduced the ball in the ring. Gently, he lowered her" AND SCORED! The audience goes wild! The bell rings, announcing the end of the match...!"
Lonely applause caught their attention, interrupting their game. Rex's face slightly frowned when he saw Six in the stand; together he was Doctor Holiday, who watched the minors play with a warm smile. The ex-mercenary slowly walked towards them. The Young EVO commented, "It seems that my nanny requires my presence..."
"SIIIIX! REXX TOLD YOU NANNNIEE AGAIIIIIN!" screamed the nipper with a high pitch tone. She giggled in her brother's face, he wasn't very happy with her childish attempt of getting him into trouble again.
"Behave, kid." uttered dryly the Agent, settling the matter once for all, he wasn't in the mood to fool around.
"Did you see me put the ball inside the basket?" she exclaimed while hugging the Adult's legs trying to get his attention; her sibling slightly cleared his throat, and she added "Well, my Hermanito helped me... A little."
"You could be a professional player when you grow up, Reggie." said Noah with a wide grin.
"When I grow up, I want to be an EVOS' Veterinary." replied the child with confidence.
"Little one, there are no EVOS vets." replied the Second of Providence whilst he looked at her.
"Abuela Nat told me that six years ago EVOs don't exist." retorted the girl "So when I grow up EVOs veterinarian will exist, and I want to become one."
The Adult blinked but he didn't reply, while the teens chuckled. Then he started to ponder about the relations between humans and EVOs and how it changed through the time. As once Dr. Aldrich had commented, 'In the early stages after the Nanite Event, the first course of action was containing and eliminate; now, it was 'Cure or contain'; it makes sense that in a near-future EVOs and humankind coexist more or less in a pacific way, and Providence just would be called in extreme situations'. He didn't dwell in those reflections. He looked at the child and spoke "Time for your night routine, little one." and looking at his Pupil, he added "Don't forget your appointment, Room Gamma. Two Hours. Don't be late."
The Young EVO grunted, while his handler withdrew with a calm stride; the young one thought that becoming Guinea Pig for a crazy, mind-controlling experiment had a zero in his scale of fun. But, the hope to unlock more repressed memories made it easier to take the decision.
"Hermanito?"
The Adolescent looked at his baby sister. He had promised her a bedtime story before going to sleep; obviously, she hadn't forgotten it. He closed an eye and with a gesture of complicity, he told her "Don't worry. Do what ya have to do; and I'll tell you the best bedtime story ever!"
"But Six said..."
"I'll handle it." He replied with a grin
She beamed and ran towards Holiday. While they left the place chatting about how much fun the little girl had that day. The teenagers uttered their goodbyes and agreed on a serious match next week.
o0o – o0o – o0o
The door did a muffled sound when it slid, and a shadow slipped inside. When it closed, the White Pawn started to type quickly the passcode, insulating the chamber. He hadn't much time. He quickly navigated to the area that contained the most sophisticated computer equipment in the world. He moved towards this electronic labyrinth, searching for a specific device. He finally found it. The Phase Scrambler System. It was a four feet tall device, explicitly designed to impede Breach use her skills and came in the HQ. Due to safety measures, it was contained inside a circular enclosure, which half was made of bulletproof glass, and the other half of reinforced steel, there was only space for one person and the way to enter was typing the passcode in the keypad that was attached to the door. The Late Walter was so predictable, writing the passcodes in a notebook and kept it inside a drawer. It wasn't the smartest move for him.
Everything was marching according to the plan and the situation couldn't be more perfect: The prized Weapon of Providence, his Puppet Master, and Doctor Fancy Skirts, would be busy in the opposite corner of the HQ to do some undisclosed project. On the other hand, the Flea Sack today had his weekly poker match in the Mess Hall. The way was clear. When the break of security started, they would be far away from the brat and the Pack could capture her without problems. He smiled under the balaclava while he extracted a device that Van Kleiss had given him from one of his pockets. It was a circular gadget with three inches in diameter and a small green button close to the preprogrammed clock watch. The mechanism would be activated in three hours when he pressed the green button. He had checked the records days before, and he knew that Room Gamma was reserved for a four-hour session, the Pack only needed a few minutes to do the extraction and retreat, while he wouldn't be nearby to rouse suspicions. As soon as he finished installing it, he pressed the green button and quietly left the place. The time started to run...
o0o – o0o – o0o
Reggie was in her bathroom; she was standing on a plastic yellow stool close to the sink. She was brushing her teeth and getting ready to go to sleep. This night she was wearing her favorite white rabbit's pajamas and was wearing fluffy rabbit-like slippers. She was rinsing her mouth when someone knocked on the door, she stopped and said with a timid "Who is it?"
"It's me, Sis." replied his sibling on the other side "Are you ready? Do you still want a bedtime story?"
"Your best Friend Forever has a good one..." added another well-known voice. It seemed that Bobo wanted to join the fun.
"YAH!" beamed the little one as she rushed out towards her bed, she quickly took off her slippers, climbed on it, and covered with her blankets. Rex grinned watching all that display of activity and turned off the bathroom's light. Watching her he expressed with a wide smile "Ready?"
" Once Upon a time…" interrupted the Chimp whilst he leaped at the small chair that was nearby.
"Thank you, Bobo; but I would be the one telling the tale." interrupted sharply by the teen while the simian stuck out his tongue. He frowned, but before he uttered anything else, with a jump the primate, made comfortable himself in the window seat. After he turned his eyes to his baby sister, his expression softened and said with a kind smile "Let's start the best bedtime Story that you ever heard!"
"Will it be short like the last one you told me?" she pointed out as she frowned in an almost comical way.
"No. this one is a larger one"
"About princesses!
"Better!" replied the adolescent "About a Good-looking spy and a Super Villain."
"Sounds bored!" pouted the child.
"Trust me; you will like it." Assured her sibling, he cleared his throat "Once upon a time a young, handsome and smart secret agent..."
"Who had a talkative monkey as pal..." interrupted The Ape.
"A very meddlesome, chatty monkey as a pal." Corrected the minor "The agent was about to do a very important mission...
"For which he wasn't fully qualified..." chimed in the ape again.
"And the meddlesome Chimpanzee neither..." retorted the young EVO while his baby sister giggled.
"The conversational simian disagreed..."
"The secret agent wants to continue the story..."
"I want to do it..."
"BOBO! Who is telling the tale, IT'S ME!" scolded the teen.
"To spin tales, no one is better than me, so I should do it!" He reacted whilst he stared at his friend. Their noses were so close that they almost touched. The tension was palpable.
"What is going on?"
Rex and Bobo were startled, they looked at the door. At the entrance of the place, they saw Six, who's expression showed that he wasn't exactly happy. Behind him was Holiday, who looked disapprovingly at them. But her expression softened when she looked at the child who was chuckling knowing that her brother was in the dog's house.
"You are in trouble!" said the little one among giggles. The chimp slipped away, disappearing in the corridors; he took advantage that all the eyes were in his human friend.
"Kid... May I know why I am listening to this racket!? And why aren't you at Gamma Room? Your appointment was at eight o'clock and you're thirty minutes late!" exclaimed the former mercenary in a tone that showed his displeasure.
"I was fullfillin' my elder bro's duties and tellin' her a bedtime story." he answered hoping that that lame excuse helps him to skip the session.
"You don't have to worry about it." intervened Holiday whereas she walked inside the place "I can take care of her and you can go to your appointment with Doctor Aldrich."
With a clear expression, the minor showed that he didn't like the idea. With a slow stride, he left the chamber. Reggie did a goodbye gesture and said "Good night, hermanito, I see you tomorrow! "
A wave of the hand was the only sign of farewell that the Teen did before the door closed behind them. With a sweet smile, Holiday looked at the little EVO and asked "What fairytale do you want to listen to? One of Princess'?"
"Noo! One of the spies and a Super Villain!" replied cheerfully the girl, as the young doctor blinked surprised. After a short hesitation, she decided to do her best to please her. While the Scientist started her tale, in a secluded area, a stopwatch showed ninety-minutes left to zero...
o0o – o0o – o0o
"Are you listening to me?"
Rex looked at his handler and huffed annoyed. He had said a lot of things since they left Reggie's lodgings. But he didn't bother to continue listening after the sentence "You should be a better example for your little sister..." When was that? Of course, five steps after they left the room. He didn't bother to continue listening, he remembered the speech. He knew that next was the example part, comes the part that he wasn't in the age to act childishly, after that was the consequences of not listening, blah, blah, blah, blah... He really needed new topics to talk about.
"Are you listening to me, Kid?" exclaimed the former mercenary.
"Of course, Six, I will be a better example for my little sis..." with annoyance the adolescent replied.
"I wasn't talking about that." Answered back the aforementioned "I was remembering you about the importance of this session and why your cooperation is needed." After a brief pause, he added hoping to give it a more positive perspective for the teen "Besides, you may have the chance to unlock more repressed memories."
"Yeah, but I don't like the idea that to do it, my mind has to be hijacked."
"Do you trust me?" asked the Agent while they stopped in front of Room Gamma.
"I do." responded sincerely his Pupil.
"Then you don't have nothing to worry about." retorted dryly the man. He pressed a code in the keypad and the door slid. Both came in, it closed. It was a medium-size conference room. In the middle of it, was a white oval-shaped table with nine chairs that made a match. each one was distributed on both sides of it and at one end. Leaving the place where, usually the highest-ranking person sat, free. On the other side, of that empty area was lined up a huge screen, that now was turned off. The chamber was scarcely illuminated. The minor could see that it was decorated with Providence's minimalist standards and with the same shades that characterized it, and soon he realized that it wasn't empty. Dr. Aldrich was there, just in front of him.
"Good evening, Rex; ready for your session?" queried kindly the old psychiatrist.
"I guess." the boy replied reluctantly.
"I understand your concerns about the procedure." commented the old man while they walked towards the nearby chair, followed by his handler "But to contact your Nanites, we have to induce an altered state of consciousness. Doctor Holiday is working in a way to do it without hypnosis but she still needs to solve some technical issues. It would take time to finish the prototype."
"I vote to wait." thought the teenager.
"By the way." said kindly the old man "I thought that Dr. Holiday would be with us, would you want to start without her or would you prefer to wait?"
"She's currently telling Reggie a tale. She told me to start without her." replied dryly the Ex-assassin.
"I see." commented the old man, he walked to the other side of the table and motioned at the young one to sit down in front of him, he did as request; The ex-mercenary stood some steps behind his pupil and took his hand toward his ear-link and talked with someone on the other side. The young EVO didn't pay attention to what his mentor was doing because he was focused on a little gadget that was on the table and he didn't recognize.
"Doc Al, what's this thing?" he asked with curiosity
" This is a metronome." Explained kindly the psychiatrist "It's used in Music and also can help to set the mind focus and induce hypnosis status."
"I thought that for that you should swing a pocket watch in front of my nose." retorted the teen with a hint of sarcasm.
"I would rather this method." replied the old doctor calmly, then he looked at the Second of Providence "Is everything all right, Agent Six?"
"It was Holiday." clarified the alluded "She's still with your sister, I told her that she should better go to rest after the little one falls asleep. We will handle this session and I'm quite confident that everything is alright."
"I see." Galen looked at him, who added while he turned on the metronome "Well Rex, I need you to relax and focus at the pendulum... Follow my voice... Everything it's ok and there is no tension... Listen to the voice... You are feeling tired... Close your eyelids... Everything is alright, you're in a safe place... Follow the voice... Focus on your breathing ... Inhale ... Exhale ..."
Slowly the juvenile heard Dr. Aldrich's indications and slipped in an induced sleep; his body relaxed at the same time as his back rested on the back of the chair. Psychologist continued whilst the Top Agent of Providence watched with interest "Listen to my voice... Continue breathing deeply... With each breath, you are falling in a profound sleep... You are at ease... Rex, do you listen to me?"
"Yes." responded the adolescent who was in a deep trance, his voice was calm.
"We need you to focus, and go deep in your subconscious mind... We need to contact your Nanites..."
"Access denied..." he retorted with an almost mechanical voice.
"Kid?" intervened the former mercenary.
"No." said the juvenile in a monotone tone, his body covered in a blue technological pattern; his eyes opened, they had now a blue electric hue and stared at his Handler while he stood up. With the same pitch, the possessed teen added "It's us."
o0o – o0o – o0o
"... The Agent ran towards the aircraft, and took off towards the villain's secret base..."
Holiday interrupted her story with a smile, the little EVO finally was sleeping. The fairy-shaped night light radiated a faint light. The young scientist tucked her in her mint-colored blanket and settled her rag bunny in her little arms without waking her up. She caresses the little girl's hair lovingly and muttered softly "Sweet dreams, Reggie."
She quietly left the little one's room and walked through the corridor towards her own quarters. Once the door closed behind her, she removed her hair tie freeing her beautiful black hair. She looked at the clock; it was five past nine at night. Still, it was pretty early, she decided to review some reports before going to sleep herself.
o0o – o0o – o0o
After several seconds, Dr. Aldrich ventured to ask "Am I talking with Rex's Nanites?"
"Affirmative." They answered using the minor's body,
"Do you know why we want to contact you?"
"You are claiming that you want to assist our siblings to develop their full potential and protect Regina." They replied without emotion through the Teen.
"To do so, we need to tell us everything you can about the Nanite Project" demanded Six.
"Access Denied."
"Do you not trust us?" He questioned.
"Trust simply believes that someone will not betray you, but does not mean that the other party will comply with the accord and not do it." retorted the Nanites through the minor's body "Our actions are driven by logic not by emotions; every breach of security must be avoided and we will not take unnecessary risks."
"If you consider Providence a risk for Rex's safety, why still do you remain with us?" inquired the ex-assassin.
"Even the logic dictates that we must avoid the contact with Providence, he commands to do the opposite. Unlike my A. I. predecessors, we cannot go against my Programming, unless it's necessary to preserve our existence." explained the microbots.
"Predecessors?" questioned Six interested.
"Our creators discussed several earth-cycles ago if we should be programmed to be subjected to a Human host or an artificial intelligence should direct us." explained the micro-robots while the teen's body walked calmly towards the Second of Providence, and stopped a few inches away "One of them created two models based on his knowledge in Artificial Intelligence. The first one has been neutralized six earth-cycles ago."
"And the second?"
"The evidence points out that Rex's caused its deactivation a few months ago."
"We need more information to verify that those experiments pose no threat to humankind."
"Negative, I will not reveal my creator's secrets; Providence or another one would want to take advantage of their research and it would have unpredictable results."
"Then, give us your creators' names." Demanded the former mercenary "At least with that piece of information Providence could have a break in their search of answers and maybe find a cure."
"Access denied."
Six raised an eyebrow, he didn't like where the matter was going. He should review Providence's files carefully to find out any event that matched with the clues that the Nanites were telling; but that would be very hard, taking in count that they on purpose were very vague in the information that they released, as best. Before he could continue interrogating them, Doctor Aldrich enquired "You said that your refusal to share information about the Nanite Project it's driven by logic, but I dare to guess that your motives are others."
"Explanation required." retorted the microbots.
"The real reason that you refuse to provide the information that we need, it's because you resent the treatment that the Young One has had when he met Providence. Am I right?"
"Negative. Even though we can understand the definition of each emotion, we can't sense them. The concept is totally alien for us." explained the micro-machines through the teen "The closest we are to experiencing something similar a human emotion is through Rex."
"How's that?" intervened Six.
"Because we are one." stated the Nanites.
"Are the same situation in Reggie's case?"
"My siblings are lacking reference and experience. The Data that we downloaded may help them to react properly to her emotions; in other situations, as being under attack, they could attempt to protect her, but still, they need Providence's assistance to keep her safe. "
"Is your only reason to stay with us and not interfere with his decisions?" inquired Six.
"We also need your reassures to find our creators." they replied bluntly.
"So, are we the means to reach an end?" questioned straightforwardly Six.
"Is Providence not doing the same?" retorted the microbots.
o0o – o0o – o0o
The night was following its course while everyone inside the base was doing their activities. Time progressed second by second. and it was almost ten o'clock. Inside a restricted area, the stopwatch kept advancing till reaching six seconds to finish the countdown... Three... Two... One... When the digital device reached zero, it released an electric discharge that burned the phase scrambler's circuit, turning it off. At the same time, the gadget devised by Van Kleiss sent a signal towards Abysus.
o0o – o0o – o0o
During as all this activity was being done inside the Providence's HQ walls, in its living quarters, a particular place was an oasis of peace. Reggie was deeply asleep. She had a beautiful smile in her face, no doubt that she was having a serene and beautiful dream. But suddenly she woke up, something was wrong... A sense of dread suddenly invaded the minor. To her horror, just above her appeared a swirling red spot! From it, a very creepy girl emerged! Her extra pair of arms reminded the little one to a spider. Her terror scaled to new levels when she saw the intruder extend her hands in an attempt to caught her! With a scream, the little EVO moved away and fell out of her bed. Breach growled when the nipper evaded her grasp. Van Kleiss's minion winced worried when the alarm started to ring. The girl grabbed her slippers and ran bared foot towards her lodging's entrance, while she headed towards the exit, she dropped her rag bunny. She stopped when other giant red swirl appeared. The child screamed with fear when what a werewolf-looking creature emerged from it and ran towards the bathroom, closing the door behind her!
Biowulf swiped the gate's controls with his long claws, sealing the place when he wrecked it. With long strides, the Second of the Pack approached at the only access that led at the minor's hideout. He stepped on the fallen plushie, tearing it with the metallic claws that he had in his paws. His master wanted the brat and he didn't have time for childish games. The alarm was already alerting the enemy. His sensitive hearing alerted him that they were on the other side. That weak barrier wouldn't stop them for long. With a swift movement, he destroyed the door that separates him from the child. Before he could react, he was hit by what looked like a barrier that resembled lianas. The wolf-like EVO was pushed back so hard that he broke the bed frame on impact.
Reggie rushed towards the only exit she had, while her liana-like extensions created by her nanites, returned and merged in her little body. She was half of the way to reach the exit when the creepy-spider-looking girl emerged from a red portal just in front of her. She was cornered, The Biomechanical Being had just recuperated of the impact and moved close to her. The little child looked around frantically trying to find a way to escape, but only she found herself surrounded by enemies. There was no escape. She screamed with terror.
o0o – o0o – o0o
"Is Providence not doing the same?"
Six was about to reply when a gesture of the juvenile's controlled body stopped him. The teen's head turned towards one of the walls and the expression of his face changed. He looked as if he was listening to a calling. Then the microbots exclaimed with a voice tone that emphasized the urgency of the situation "Our siblings are agitated, an abnormal event is happening in the living quarters... You should go there... NOW!"
The blue technological patterns faded at the same time as the possessed body closed its eyes and collapsed, The Ex-Mercenary caught him, preventing him from hitting the ground. Rex opened his eyes and was surprised "What happened? Did I say somethin' interestin'?"
The alarm sounded aloud, alerting everyone on the base. The Second of Providence said whilst he helped him stand up "I will tell you later, something is wrong in Reggie's room. RUN!"
He rushed towards the source of the emergency, followed close by his Pupil. The former-assassin was getting information from Calan and gave him instructions while they hurried there through his ear-link. As they approached the scene, Bobo, Dr. Holiday, and several other Pawns joined them, but the teen barely noticed.
"It's a nightmare! It's a nightmare! It's a nightmare!" The young EVO repeated in his mind like a mantra, hoping that a bad dream had triggered the sensitive detection system that was installed for his baby sister's protection. It happened one or two times in her first months in the HQ. But a chilling sensation made him stop short, making his fear turn in panic.
"SIX! I SENSE BREACH!" said the minor with a voice full of terror.
"KEEP RUNNING !" Replied his mentor as his face hardener. All obeyed.
"HOW IS THIS HAPPENING! WE ARE SUPPOSED TO BE PROTECTED AGAINST THIS TYPE OF INCURSIONS!" Cried Dr. Holiday with anguish whilst she ran at his side.
"As soon as we secure the place and the little one is safe, we can ask about the how's." retorted dryly the Second of Providence.
They reached the Living quarter's area, the personnel in the corridors cleared them as soon as they saw reinforcements arrive. When Rex and his companions got to the sector where the child's room was, they saw Calan and half-dozen of white pawns trying to break the door with a welding machine. The adolescent for a moment felt a knot in his throat. It was his imagination, or he heard struggling sounds coming from inside?
"Step aside!" cried the adolescent while one of his arms transformed in his Battle Saw; the men obeyed. With two fast cuts, the minor destroyed the gate. They rushed inside. What they saw made them stop short: Biowulf was in the middle of the place, almost ready to leave it through one of Breach's portals! What horrified Providence's members, was that Second of the Pack was holding tight the Little Reggie, who was unsuccessfully struggling to break free!
"REGGIE!" cried the juvenile. He quickly moved towards them, hoping to avoid his enemy escaping with his baby sister as a hostage. Holiday gasped with terror and paled. The former mercenary reacted quickly and advanced. The Second of the Pack held tight his little prey. With long strides, he headed towards the portal.
"REEEXXX!" screamed with fear the little one as she spread her tiny hand towards her hermanito. The Teen EVO rushed in the direction of his little sibling. Six was just behind him with his Magna blades unfolded. They were almost there, just a few steps more and they would rescue her. But before they could reach her, the portal closed and Biowulf, together with his little captive, were gone.