Hello Lovelies! Oh, its been too long. Ive so busy, work is a killer... but hey i have more story for ya! Hope you enjoy!
As always i own no characters, they all belong to Mr. Warburton
Chapter 15: Decisions
Dialing through his comm watch, Nigel found the number he was looking for. Pressing the contact twice, it begins beeping. Less than 30 seconds later came the annoyed voice…
"…. Every single time… I'm eating…Uno, this better be good." Chad warned
With a smirk, "Anytime I can tick your pompous arse off its always good. Any who, the reason I called is that we are going on a trip…"
He groaned, "Is that all? Do you really need my permission to go off on your own? You do a fine job of that without telling me anyway."
Sighing, he explained, "No numb nuts, 'WE…', as in all of us including you are going to England. I know this is sudden, but it's urgent."
"What the heck…" *Background Mom, (Language!)
Chad clears his throat, "Excuse me, what is so important that we need to go all the way over there… right now?"
"You're not going to like this but… we found Father… or at least know his general locale … However, the part that makes this urgent is well… Grandfather is also there…" he state wryly
"Why the fuck…" *Background Mom, (Chaddrick Language, please!)
Chad started, tersely, "Excuse me… How is it, that the two most powerful men are in one place. That shouldn't even be a thing… isn't there a rule for such things…!"
*Rachel in the back, (Right! Somebody gets it…)
Rolling his eyes, "Yes… yes… I know, Rachel said the same thing, but listen neither of them have caused a stir in quite some time from what I hear. Maybe, we have nothing to worry about. This is just a precaution and that's why we need you… and Rachel…probably… more than likely would like a few words with you…"
Chad gulped
"The main thing is, Father is the root of our current situation with the DCFDTL. So, if we can find him, maybe… just maybe we can fix this issue without a fight."
"Let's hope so Uno… this will be my last mission…"
"What do you mean your last? We still have plenty of unfinished business back with the G: KND… Don't tell me your…"
"Don't… don't say it… I prefer 'retire'. Chaddrick Dickson doesn't quit, and I'm not about to start. It's just that… that I finally figured out what is more important to me… and… and that something I don't want to lose, not again. So, you can take that however you like, but as of the end of this I will no longer be known as Numbuh 274…"
"…Honestly… Chad, I really don't blame you. The sacrifices you… we… had to make is far too great for any one man to take. I understand fully how you feel, and if I don't get a chance to later, it has been my honor… no, a pleasure working with you. I know that kids everywhere will never forget, nor will I allow them to forget, the great Numbuh 274 and the man he became. I thank you, for serving with me and my team, and for keeping an eye on me for all these years. You are truly like the brother I never had."
*Background Hoagie, (Hey!)
"Nigel, I feel the same about you, to think we'd be stuck together for as long as we were. Always trying to one up the other, I'll admit even through the hard times, I was glad you were there with me to embrace the suck. It's been fun, but now I need a new start on life, and I couldn't ask for better way to start off my retirement then to kick Father's ass!"
*Background Mom, (Big Sigh!)
"Here, here! We will meet in the field across from your place, Hoagie is getting our transportation now. So, I say about ten to fifteen minutes."
"Whoa… uh, give me about an hour, I'm still eating with my folks. I'll page ya when I'm done, Dickson out."
The screen on Nigel's watch went dark, leaving him staring at nothing. Hoagie came walking in.
"Got the key! What's the move boss?"
"Well, looks like we have a solid hour to kill, Chad didn't leave us much of a choice. He is finishing up supper with his family, so we'll take this time to prepare for our journey."
Agreeing with the plan, they all split off.
Hoagie went back to the E.L.I.M.O.N.A.T.O.R, checking to make sure it was fully operational. Diving under the hood, he began to work. Even though he loved to fly, working on machines was just as fulfilling to him. Knowing that he either built or fixed something and it was useful to others filled him with pride.
Abby busied herself with getting snacks and other supplies, loading them into the aircraft. Usually Kuki had always overseen the menial task, knowing exactly what to get for each member of the team. Besides getting her favorites, she made sure everyone got something she remembered they liked as kids. Bringing along extra pillows and blankets for the long ride. She also decides to pack enough caffeine to kill a horse. She and Hoagie would need it, being the two who still well versed in piloting KND machinery. Minus Nigel, who seemed more content with going over the plan a thousand more times.
Nigel and Rachel pooled their thoughts together, inputting and revising constantly. Agreeing to disagree, each filling in the gaps of analysis the other looked over. The duo bounced ideas off each other making sure they had every inch of this mission covered. Not wanting to overlook any minute detail that would cause them trouble in the long run. The two were in perfect sync, barely even looking at each other to know what the other was doing. To any onlookers they seem to be doing a tactical dance wargaming the scenario to come.
"Nigel…?"
"Hmm?" … he responded not looking up from the map
"Do...do you think this is a good idea? I mean, we are practically running into a danger zone right now… I don't… I don't know how I feel about this…" she stated.
Stopping what he was doing, he turned toward her, "I understand how you feel… and honestly… I don't think it'd be the best way to go about it… but what other choice do we have my dear? The DCFDTL, do not seem like they will stop harassing us anytime soon… we might as well put a stop to this… if we can. If we don't do it now, who knows what lengths they will go to intrude in our lives…"
She sighs, "You're right… as always… I'm just worried you know...neither Father nor Grandfather were happy to see us the last time. Plus, with those buffoons joining the fray, who knows what havoc it will bring."
Grabbing her by the waist, tilting her chin up, "We will figure this out… trust me. I won't let anything happen to you or the guys. Who knows maybe Father may even help us out for once." He smirked
She snorted, "Really… you think so and I thought the things Hoagie says were off the wall."
"Hey! I heard that… anyway, if you two love birds are done… we are all set to go. We can head over and wait for Chad, if everything is good with the plan." Hoagie informed
Nigel cleared his throat, slightly embarrassed, "Ri... right, let's get on with it then. Let's go pick up Mr. Dramatic and make haste… I don't know how long it's going to take the DCFDTL to notice we're on the move. So, let's get this done as quickly as possible."
Chad sat in his room brooding… Beyond upset that he had to explain to his family that he once again was leaving. Though they heard partial portions of the conversation, he had to inform them exactly why he needed to go. Of course, mom cried, and dad barely spoke, but Cedric seemed deep in thought.
'I don't know why… but I have a bad feeling about this.' he thought as he picked up his meager belongings, just a small satchel he came with. Heading downstairs, he ran into his brother.
"Sup squirt… why aren't you in bed?"
Shuffling his feet, "It's too early, I don't go to bed until 9:30… besides…"
Chad raised an eyebrow, "What's the matter?"
Running to his brother, he gave em a hug, "Just be safe okay…" With that he ran off to his room
'Well… that was unexpected, I guess he likes me now.' he smirked
Before getting too lost in his thoughts, he heard the horn of his ride… he knew it was his, because the horn played La Cucaracha…. Only Hoagie would have a gag horn. Feeling better about the situation Chad headed out to meet up with his fellow operatives. Closing the door behind him, walking out into the brisk night, he jogged over to the aircraft. As he got near, the door lowered, ducking he walked right in. Keeping his head low, being a bit tall for the initial entry way. Walking down a small stairwell, he was greeted with three-fifths of sector V and… Rachel. Not really knowing why… he suddenly felt nervous. Hoagie was sitting in the driver's seat with Abby hovering over him, as Nigel stood in the back looking over a holographic map. Rachel sat in one of the numerous chairs… staring right a Chad with a slight frown on her face.
He rubbed his neck, "Uh… yo…" he waved weakly with two fingers
Before he could say anything else, Rachel had him in a tight embrace
"You… you idiot… I thought…I thought I lost you…"
Her arms clasped around his neck, he had to bend somewhat to awkwardly return the hug with his free arm. Head in his chest, she stayed for a minute
He cleared his throat getting her attention, "Uh… I'm sorry Rach… I…I really didn't think any of this through. I'm sure Nigel told you… uh, what happened. All I can say is I'm soooo sorry. You're right I was an idiot, I was so selfish, I didn't think about anything other than myself. I wanted to be the best; I was so narrow minded… I…"
Pulling up her head, a little she relaxed her hug, cutting off his words, "It's okay, you big dolt, I'm just glad to have one of my best friends back. Obviously, I was upset, especially at Nigel, more so at you… but, when you walked in… I'm not going to lie, I was about to tear your head off, but I'm happier to see you well and alive. I… I… missed you. You weren't just my mentor, you helped me when I first joined, if it wasn't for you, I don't think I would have ever been Soopreme leader, and not just because you went rogue… you were a great role model. Even if I don't rip you a new one, I'm sure Fanny will."
She laughed, "Just… just don't disappear on me again…okay?"
He shuddered, "You got it blondie, I'm sure you heard from that prick over there, I plan on retiring anyway. I'm staying put, and you'll have to deal with me from now on. I'll bug you any chance I get, that's if Nigel lets you out of his sight." He smirked, looking over at Nigel's annoyed face
"What…? Don't like me hugging your girlfriend? Huh?" he pulled Rachel closer to him
"Chad stop being an arse, and I don't mind you hugging Rach… I mean she can hug who she wants, it's not like we're married." He crossed his arms and blushed
Rachel pushed her head further in Chad's chest, hiding her face
"Oh, is that right? So, then I have a chance to steal her away. Clearly, she missed me more than she missed you." He jibes
"Now listen here…!"
"Alright, alright… Chad honey, leave Nigie alone. As you can see, he's a lil jealous."
"Hey, I am not." He turned, blushing
"Okay, okay… I must push his buttons somehow, he does it to me a lot. I finally can have some fun. Sorry for putting you through that Rach, I didn't mean to embarrass you." He bends down and gives her a peck on the cheek
"However, you have become quite a cutie." He winked
"Suave, dude you are a playa, playa!" Hoagie whooped
(Hat smack, echoes in the background!)
"Hey, I'm just being honest…"
"Definitely not the time babe."
Nigel eyes bulged out of his head… he started to sputter, "Hey… wha… now see here bloke!"
Before, he could do anything, Rachel grabbed him, "Hey, Nigel… sweetie, calm down. He's only joking." She glared at Chad
"Right Chad…" She growled
"Ha, ha… Yeah, but I'm not sorry, the look on your face was priceless… Anyway, let's get this show on the road, I know we don't have much daylight left, and Father needs an ass whooping."
*Background Nigel muttering, (I'll give you an arse whooping.)
"Testing, testing… This is your captain speaking. Please take your seats and buckle up, we will be starting our take off. As always remember to keep both feet and hands inside the aircraft. Now …Hang on to your underwear! We'll try to get there as fast as possible" Hoagie shouted
Abby shook her head, "Abby is sho, he's been waiting ta do dat fo years. Abby got ya'll some snacks, feel free to grab em wheneva, they're in the mini fridge. Hoagie and Abby will worry bout getting us to England, ya'll just put ya feet up and chillax a bit."
Abby returned to the copilot seat as the rest of the gang made themselves comfortable. Rachel was still calming Nigel down, while they snuggled up on a large recliner. Chad found a bus seat towards the back and decided to lay down, getting some shut eye. All hoping this trip wouldn't be too chaotic.
A twinkle in the sky caught his attention as he monitored the security cameras. He knew he should inform his superior(s) but ruled against it. Knowing how they valued their rest; he didn't feel like getting another lashing for no reason. Instead he decided to leave a note on their nightstand. He'd still would get chewed out, but at least it wouldn't be at so late at night and ruin the little peace and quiet he did have. Walking his stoic pace, he retrieved pen and paper, leaving a note for his boss, to know that their 'cousin' was on the move. His job was done…for now…
Five hours into their flight, Abby switched places with Hoagie, as he now napped beside her. She had the coffee brewing underneath the console. It'd been an hour since Hoagie decided to nap, so she had the whole place to herself, while everyone slept.
'Man, Abby don't know how Hoags enjoys dis, Abby needs to be moving around or playing some music or somthin babe. Oh! Hold on Abby has her Zune, so Abby can still jam out.' Pulling out her media player, she plugged in her headphones, slipping one bud in her ear, she scrolled through picking a soothing blues playlist. 'Now dis is what Abby's talkin bout, now Abby can go all night.' She thought as she sipped her coffee. Hoagie woke about two hours later.
"Sup sweetheart, how's my baby?" He asked
"Everythang's fine Sugah, but could ya take da wheel fo a sec, Abby has ta go!"
"Sure thing, babe ol Hoagster's got this." He kept them on course making sure no planes were flying to close
"Whew, thanks a bunch Honey, Abby didn't think she could hold it much longa. Abby's been drinking too much joe. Did ya rest well sweetie? Abby can take ova, again if ya don't mind."
"Naw it's cool Abs, I'm good and yes I got enough rest thanks. If you want, you can rack out too. We still have about five more hours to go, and that still depends on where exactly we need to go when we get to England."
"Abby will love, but fo now, Abby just wanna chill with ya. Dis has probably been da only time, we've had togetha in a hot minute. You know with all da runnin, and fightin, and discoverin da men behind da mask… oh you know what I mean. Ya know it seems just like yestaday we were, chillin on da beach and finishin exams. Now here we are huntin down da biggest, baddest villain of our childhood. How did thangs turn out like dis?" Abby wondered
"First off it hasn't been that long babe, it's just because we have been so busy. We haven't had much down time since then. I know everyone has been amped up since we all found out not only are the DCFDTL are after us, but Father AND Grandfather have resurfaced again, after all these years. I mean if that isn't a shocker, I don't know what is. I mean we really don't know what we are getting ourselves into, but hey when do we ever…right?"
"Yeah, Abby's got ya, we always seem ta get is some type of trouble, no mattah what we do. Nothin eva changes with us does it?" She smirked
"Why else would we be goin halfway round da world, somthin we haven't done in a while. Just ta find somebody who doesn't wanna be found."
"Don't worry so much babe, we'll be fine. Nigel and Rach got it all planned out, I know we'll be alright. When has things gone wrong with these two in charge, plus we have Chad too."
"Do I have ta remind ya of when Father became da Soopreme Leadah? Many thangs went to shit, but Abby guess ya right, dey did end up savin da KND durnin dat. Abby's sho we coulda manage without em, but Abby is sho glad they're here."
"Ha, ha… yeah that was a fun day…still my bad on tagging Father." He laughed
"I didn't know he was behind the door, then he trapped us all with the broccoli in the treehouse. Luckily Nigel and Rach were there to save us, almost sacrificing themselves in the process."
"Ain't dat right, Abby don't know how thangs woulda been if dat wasn't da case. We've done alright since den, our lives have had its ups and downs, but we've done it all togetha Sugah."
"Always babe." He smiled, grabbing her hand
"…You know Abby's been thinkin… Chad's thinkin of retirin right?... How…how bout we do da same?"
"What do ya mean? You wanna quit the KND?"
"No… no not quit, Abby's just thinkin we should… ya know take a break or somthin. We've been fightin fo so long, how bout a lil break fo just us… Abby knows school has been like dat, but we always had ta watch our backs. Maybe, we should go away like Walls or Kuks… dey got away from it… why can't we?"
"Abs… why didn't ya say something before, I mean if its too much we could have done that sooner. I know the KND is practically our life, but hey if we need a break, I suggest we go for it. I don't want you to feel like this is your whole life. Remember I'm always here for you, no matter what." He squeezed her hand
"Thanks, Sugah, Abby knows dat… Abby doesn't want to stop being with the KND, just not as involved as much as we are. Afta bein Soopreme Leadah, Abby neva really took a break. Abb…Abby just thinks Abby needs ta focus on her, and what Abby wants. With all dat is goin on, Abby's been thinkin quite a lot. Abby knows you have been too, and Abby is sho we are thinkin da same thang. So, Abby has a question fo ya Sugah…"
"Uh… yeah, shoot babe. I'm all ears."
"Well babe… Abby wanna know… Will you marry Abby, babe?"
He sat out on his patio, looking over the horizon, where he often sat with his wife sipping his tea. The sun rose slowly, the wind shifted bringing a minor breeze toward him. He looked around with a frown, placing his teacup down on the table.
"I guess it's finally time… I'll have to prepare for my guests that will be here soon. Ha, ha… it was only a matter of time… let the games begin anew." He smirked
Oh, well that was unexpected...
I will start working on the the next part soon. See you soon Lovelies!