Epilogue
Chapter Seven: So Confused

*sigh* Read and review (even though this is shorter than I'd hoped).

Adrian rested his head in his hands, his television muted. The only sound in his ears was the gentle thudding of his heart, which went on and on and on. It seemed unfair. The four pictures that had flashed by on the screen, and the cold words from the newscasters declared that four hearts had slowed and stopped today. Why didn't they listen...
I'm not sorry...
You should have gone home, Lori, he murmured softly, you should have gone home...
The news was only able to show the damage from their helicopters, as masses of the Fixed Ideas had secured much of the outer city. The buildings were jagged outlines of cement and plaster, wood and glass. In the more populated districts, teams of rescue workers struggled to free the less conspicuous victims. Some of the dead had to be left underneath the rubble; M-16s kept medical personnel away from the concentrated areas.
Adrian groaned. I can't believe it... I've got to stop him somehow... but HOW; I can't fight those guns. From all sides, it seemed hopeless.
A sharp knock on the door startled him from his stupor. called a voice. Adrian, it's me. It's Lucas.
he whispered, and cast a glance around the room, making sure there were no signs as to who his alter ego was. The door's open, Lucas... Come in.
There was no energy in the opening of the door, nor in the closing. Lucas seemed barely able to get to the couch, where he slumped wearily on the arm. ...you heard?
Adrian looked up at his friend, hiding the small amount of surprise he felt. Lucas... have you been...
Crying. N-no, but I've wanted to. Did you see the destruction out there? The extent of it? It's... it's mind boggling.
It's very bad. Adrian sighed.
And the things causing it... they're the ones who are always after Cybersix... Adrian, do you think she's all right?
She's probably fine, Lucas. In fact, she probably had the sense to stay home today.
Wherever that is. I'm just so confused, Adrian. First Lori and her friends... and countless others. How much more damage will we have to suffer before this whole thing is over?
I'm not sure it'll ever be over now, Lucas. Every day is going to be worse and worse, and... Look. Go home and get some rest. You'll be safe there, I'm sure - for now, anyway. Don't be a hero, Lucas.
Haven't got the strength to save the day. Not this time. Lucas shook his head. He hesitated. Adrian, do you really think Cybersix is okay?
Put it this way. You're fine, aren't you? I'm fine, right?

Well, how much better do you think she can evade those things than either of us?
Lucas smiled weakly. You're right. She's... probably fine. I must be overreacting. Thanks, Adrian... I'll get home, then. ...right after I find her...
Adrian studied his expression briefly. Right. I'll talk to you later, then.
Lucas nodded, and left the apartment.
Oh dear... Cybersix shook her head and watched Lucas leave. Don't get yourself into trouble on my account, Lucas. I suppose now I'll have to find you... for you won't find me out there.
But you're right, Lucas. I, too, wonder when this will be over...
And I hope it's soon.