Battle Dawn
Chapter 17: Parting Ways
by Silver
Author's Note: I must set the record for the longest interval between chapters. Shame on me.
Truthfully, it's been a very exciting time for me. I'm at a new, more exciting job, I'm close to getting a new home, and I'm exploring several hobbies in my life, including Gundam and Zoid models. So, I guess the tradeoff is I write even less.
However, I am still committed to finishing this story and I thank all the reviewers for their support. And thanks once again to Zeropioneer for an excellent proofread.
I forget if I've already upgraded this story to an "R" rating, but I'm going to do so after posting this chapter. It's not that I don't think that the readers can't handle a more mature storyline, but when I do publish a physical book I want to have plenty of practice at avoiding the wrath of "soccer moms." ;)
On with the chapter!
X X X X X X X X
The Arcadian landscape blurred into a collage of emerald and dirt-hued patches, tinted a deep navy by the waning night. Angela pulled her jacket's warmth closer while maintaining a firm, somewhat frightened grip on the Roadskipper's harness. While almost comically small in comparison to its larger Zoid brethren, the Roadskipper still dwarfed most humans by several feet. Its body and head angled almost parallel to the ground with its legs racing each other along the dirt road, leaving a large dust trail in its wake. Any resistance from the chilling pre-morning air fell quickly as the wind split and arched along the Roadskipper's curved beak. The contrast of its avian appearance to its inability to take flight added some irony to its image, but its speed made this inexpensive mount invaluable to the people of the southern regions. Gustavs, Hover Cargos, and Whale Kings were almost a myth in the rural lands. The people could not live so lavishly, and Angela loved them for that.
A long time ago, a foolish young girl had nearly been drawn in by Jusight's sparkling image, until a wise old woman appeared from the mists of Zi and showed her the hidden image. The more glamorous and dazzling a culture became, the more problems and dangers lurked in the shadows. As martial issues, violence, sloth, and greed developed a strong choke on the people, the larger society would heap more trappings to distract everyone's attention from the truth. Argos had more than its share of problems, but Angela's husband never tried slight-of-hand with their people. They confronted their problems, counseled both families and youth as a community, tended the land together, and dreamed of a future brighter than any building or trinket. Angela would give her life for her husband's dreams and her people's happiness. It was these desires, not the summons themselves, that drove her to meet with the Lady.
Truly, someone with the Lady's resources could bring woe to all of Arcadia and level Argos if she wished. Fylak would not be able to repel an attack from such a woman. Unlike Helic and Guylos, the Lady understood subtlety and stealth, often using five people to accomplish more than a battalion of soldiers could ever dream. For all this terrible power, Angela did not fear the Lady. She would even resist a call if she felt it was not just; but in all her years she'd never known the Lady to intend ill on anyone.
Not that she was a saint. The Lady used people, perhaps even wounded many, but brought her no delight. Angela had seen her genuinely agonize over decisions on several occasions. One such event resulted with her sending a person to his doom while crippling an Ancient Zoidian base used by bandits as a staging ground for a dangerous offensive. With the base's resources, the berserkers could have burned the whole region and scattered the ashes however they wished. The Lady saw the threat and intervened.
She'd sought out a man; a mercenary of reputable skill and greed. An anonymous e-mail told the man of a treasure buried within a newly-occupied base, just below the power core. Driven by his lust for wealth, the mercenary expertly slithered past the base's overlords and forced his way into the underlying power grid. In doing so, he triggered an ancient security system that brought the base down, crushing the man and many escaping bandits. The loss of the base set the stage for the marauders' eventual breakup. The lands beyond the ZBC's protection were saved without even knowing, and all at the cost of one mercenary whose motives were anything but charitable. Yet the Lady wept for the man that night, and thanked him for his sacrifice. The Lady had a ruthlessness and disillusionment that came with her age, yet she never stopped thinking about the people she knew, even in passing.
Angela reflected—not for the first time—the disparity between the Lady's wishes and actions. She ensured the world weaved itself tight and strong by pulling a string here and there every few years, but chose to stay away in the shadows, living in a region on the borders of Arcadia. Her isolation seemed like punishment for past crimes and her secret acts a means of penance.
Gone were the greens of the farms and the tightly-packed dirt roads of Arcadia. Now the desert's sands chipped at her goggles as a chill night wind stole almost all warmth from her body. She'd invited the Lady to come live in Argos several times, but in each case the Lady had replied, "This is where I belong." That ended the conversation every time, and it took Angela a good several months to muster up the courage to ask again.
Amid the shifting sands and freezing air a small mountain range thrust its way upward on the horizon. Angela nudged her Roadskipper a little more, not wanting to waste time on the trek upward. The Lady's impatience aside, Angela did not want to be away from Argos for very long. Fylak would defend the city well enough but these were troubled times even without the Backdraft's terrorism. Governments were already growling at each other, reaching for land with greedy hands and completely oblivious to the needs and wishes of those who already dwelt on the contested soil. Now the emboldened Backdraft threatened to ignite the firestorm that had been building over the years. One little spark would be all it took for Guylos and Helic to sever their ties and take up the old ways of war. If the two superpowers came to blows, Arcadia and all the independent lands would be crushed no matter who emerged the victor. Angela did not want to be away from the affairs of state, not when even the smallest event could end all their hopes.
The Lady knew this situation better than anyone, of course, so this had to be important for her to send for Angela, who hoped this matter would be as short as it was urgent.
The Roadskipper sprinted up a path that had long been carved out and carefully maintained along the mountain. No rocks blocked the way and the cliff face was remarkably solid. Almost no apparent erosion despite the sand's terrible winds. If not for this route, Angela would have been forced to abandon the Roadskipper at the base and make her way up on her own power. It would have taken the better part of a day to trek up to the top, but the Lady's preparations cut the time down to half an hour. At the summit stood a small domed building. A fair sized observation deck leveled away from the curved structure and overlooked the massive desert, but its true purpose was to observe the stars that shone so brightly over the desert. Angela could see a figure standing at a telescope on the deck, peering past the double moons of So and Ae at the worlds that lay far beyond Zi's sight. Somewhere out there was the planet Earth, home of many Arcadian namesakes. Angela often wondered what became of humanity's cradle. Did they suffer the same threat of war? Did power flow to only a few people or was it more distributed? If her ancestors had left Earth on their voyage among the stars, Angela decided that Earth must have had its share of problems as well.
It seemed for one terrible moment that mankind was trapped by their petty arguments and greed. No matter where they went, people's problems followed. Perhaps it was better to say that humans carried all their issues with them; always trying to outrun a part of themselves. Not even the Lady could resist such a force forever.
Angela left such doubts with the Roadskipper and entered the building without knocking. If the Lady invited someone, they didn't have to waste time with formalities. Even without that telescope the Lady probably saw Angela approaching several miles away. Since she had not moved from her post on the balcony, Angela knew exactly where to go. For a moment she toyed with the idea of out-waiting the Lady and forcing her to come inside and to interact on Angela's terms, but such an act would be selfish and stupid.
The main Foyer was completely sealed off from the rest of the building. The area was a chalky white that glowed with varying tints of blue and navy from the moonlight that shined down through a skylight. Several closed doors circled the room, all closed off or darkened from within. Most would think the Lady was discouraging interest in her home. Quite the opposite, really. After all, who could resist exploring a room that the host would rather keep hidden?
During Angela's youth she'd dared to venture into the darkened areas and the Lady watched her every step, eager to see how much courage the young girl could muster. "You're either very brave for making it this far," the Lady had said when Angela entered her bedroom, "or you are a fool. If you are indeed brave then there's much I can teach you; but I will not teach a fool. There are already enough fools ruling the world now."
Angela shirked off the memory and the millions others invoked by every grain of dust in this large, empty building.
The far wall bulged into a perfect semi-cylinder to encase an elevator. Considered a luxury in the rural regions, Angela had no use for elevators. Instead she followed a metal rail staircase that curved upwards into a portion of the ceiling that was significantly lower than the skylight. A small entertainment area encircled the stairway's emergence. Several large plush chairs arrayed around a table with a built-in holo-projector. All chairs faced the opening and had a clear view of the stairway just beyond the table's edge. Anyone enjoying a show would instantly see a guest or family member arriving from below, but not fast enough to turn off the program.
Angela did not know what programs the Lady or her family watched, but she doubted they watched much of anything at all. Probably the news and other shows of importance, though the Lady could actually lecture much of the press on how to gather information. In the corner stood what looked like a statue of an Organoid. Its body was completely gray and its eyes a dark black. The crests on its head dipped downward then peaked upward slightly. It made Angela's heart clench a little, but she focused on her appointment and weaved past the chairs and followed a wide hallway, the only illuminated path, and emerged onto the deck. The Lady had not moved.
She was an elderly woman, though she did not look half her true age. Her skin was just beginning to sag around her face, and the red dot on her forehead still held its basic roundness, with a small flaw here and there. Her hair danced the line between white and blue, a beautiful shade that glistened in the moonlight. Her body did not hunch or wobble when she moved, but it was not as quick as she might have wished. The only parts of her body that truly reflected her experiences were her eyes. The Lady had been through many changes over the decades: grief, vengeance, joy, sorrow. Every shift in her emotional health was carved around her eyes. Now they seemed to grow colder every time Anglea matched the Lady's gaze. So many wrinkles, such a tired look. Her care for Zi left her drained within. Her eyes were older than the mountain itself.
Nevertheless, the Lady embraced Angela tightly. "Welcome back to my home. Thank you for coming so quickly."
"I know you wouldn't call without reason, but I cannot be away for too long. Is there some way I can help you?"
The Lady smiled, "A question that goes right to the topic without dealing with nonsense yet sounds respectful and modest. You learned your lessons well. Come, I need to gather a few things before I introduce you to my other guest." She escorted Angela back into the house and down the hallway. Lights flickered on overhead and shut off again as they past, enclosing the travelers in a bubble of light amidst the darkness. The Lady turned at one unremarkable door and walked inside. The room illuminated automatically, revealing dozens of portraits and photos along the walls and shelves. As the Lady went over to a nearby desk and explored its contents, Angela observed the pictures. She'd met a few of these people during her tutelage under the Lady. They came to visit as daughters or granddaughters or great-granddaughters. Some extended even further along the family lineage. Although a few of the men in the pictures enjoyed a shinning head of blond or red hair, almost everyone, especially the women, had a hair of either deep gray or chilling blue. Angela regarded the portrait in the center of the collage. It was a family of five with a tall, serious-eyed man, his wife, and three children. The man's gaze somehow captured both sternness and kindness all at once. His dark violet eyes had seen almost as much suffering as the lady, yet he placed his arm around his wife's shoulder tenderly, showing his true feelings. Angela had no doubt the Lady would have held her husband as well if she were not already holding a newborn baby girl in her arms. The two children, both of whom had inherited their mother's sky-colored hair, stood attentively. They reminded Angela of Atory whenever their family had to pose for a photo. He stood straight enough but the discomfort and pent up energy within him seemed to resonate in the whole family. Angela grinned at how Atory's feelings had even made his father eager to be done with the photo shoots. "Just take the photo, man!" The King had finally snapped. "If it looks bad we'll have someone fix it digitally!" They'd all had a good laugh that night.
Looking at these images helped Angela understand why the Lady lived this way. Even though she could not be near all her family, she protected the world so they could continue to live and grow. Angela would gladly lead the same life it ensured her son's happiness.
"Here we are." The Lady spun around with a photograph frame and file folder clasped tightly in her hands. "Before I show you these documents, you must first meet another guest of mine." She led Angela back down the hallway to the second-story elevator entrance. "This guest arrived about a week ago, uninvited."
Angela almost forgot to enter the elevator door before it hissed shut. "Uninvited? I Thought you… well… discouraged uninvited guests." The elevator thrummed slightly as it descended.
"I do, always have and I always shall. True to form, when I saw this unwelcome visitor approaching I wasn't at all disappointed when several old sleeper Zoids activated right in the intruder's path and launched a barrage. I'd thought that had ended the matter, naturally."
Angela knew the Lady loved to bait people in conversations, so she obliged. "Did something happen?"
The Lady grinned happily, "Something truly remarkable. This intruder did what no other unwelcome guest accomplished: he blew the sleeper Zoids to molten scrap." The elevator hissed open onto a metal catwalk suspended in the darkness with a few overhead lights. They emerged onto the catwalk and proceeded to the center. The echo of their footsteps bounced and drifted for an eternity, making Angela feel as though she was standing atop a great pit that stood ready to swallow them whole. The Lady spoke as if she were talking about an amusing anecdote, the kind that people discussed at casual parties. "Obviously I could not simply turn away such a powerful guest, but I'm not about to allow an intruder to simply waltz into my home. So I followed the only open path: I went out and met this rather boorish—or should I say 'bull headed'—" she giggled at her own joke, "fellow. She was very direct and got straight to the point; my favorite conversation style." The Lady flicked a switch and a stronger set of lights brightened the area before them. Only a yard away, a giant blue snout poked at them curiously. Two red eyes watched cautiously, but did not glare. There was enough firepower within the Zoid's horns and back-mounted cannons to level this entire facility, but Angela did not sense any hostility.
Even so, she jumped at the simple fact such a large creature was standing so close, unnoticed.
"Angela Bethany Prasino, allow me to introduce the Cannon Fort. Recently escaped of ZBC ownership, it is the first Wild Zoid in almost a century." The bull-style Zoid bellowed a greeting.
Angela was momentarily speechless. "T-this was your intruder?"
The Cannon Fort growled, prompting the Lady to say, "She prefers the term 'aggressive arrival.'"
"Aggressive arrival… yes… of course. But… why would a Wild Zoid come here? And how did it know about you?"
The Lady nodded. "You too know how to pierce the core subject, as I knew you would." She handed Angela the packet of information. Within were two dossiers of a man and a teenage girl on the brink of womanhood. The man was easily enough to recognize. His combed back dark hair shown a few elegant streaks of silver and his elegant face could woo many a noble maiden. But his cold eyes only added to his resemblance of Prozen the Usurper. No one would dare say such a thing about Sen Vaez within the central regions, but everyone in Arcadia commented on the resemblance.
The girl-to-be-woman was tall and slender with bright violet eyes and fiery red hair that hung in short bangs. She was somewhat athletic, probably a Zoid pilot. Her name was Leena Toros and a quick skim of the dossier revealed nothing important save her role on a Class S team. Angela didn't pay much attention to Zoid Battles. They brought Arcadia no profit, ruined the landscape, and blinded people with their sports obsessions while the rest of the world cried for aid.
"What makes these people so important? Sen Vaez is a powerful man but-"
"He is powerful," the Lady spoke with a new edge in her voice, "because he had willed the world to make him strong. Despite his public façade I have kept my eyes on this man for a long time; long before he became ZBC Chairman and Commissioner. His history is closely guarded. So much so that I do not even know his true identity. But I do know his parents died during a rather suspicious tradeoff with the Black Market and he himself has ties to many powerful figures in the criminal and Backdraft worlds. I do not trust such a man. Having spent time with many like him, I can say that he will bring no good to planet Zi. Even his most benevolent act will haunt us at some point. I am sure."
"And the girl?"
"Leena Toros, the object of his affections for a recent time and the focus of many historical probes on Vaez's part. He has researched her family and lifestyle, then erased all pertinent information. I know of her mother, father, grandparents, cousins, but a few tiny inconsistencies called to me. For example, her grandfather on her mother's side never married. He was too obsessed with his Ancient Zoidian research to find love or raise a child. What's more, the history of Mrs. Toros appears to have been fabricated, but all my attempts to unlock the truth ended with dead identity thieves and fabricators. Someone is protecting the Toros family's secrets, perhaps they are keeping the Toros family ignorant as well. Vaez wants something with this girl, and whatever Vaez wants cannot be good for either the girl or our world. Again, I am sure of my conclusions."
"How do you know about this girl? I doubt you took must interest in Vaez's love life."
The Cannon Fort bellowed again. "Exactly right." The Lady nodded. "It was the Cannon Fort that told me of Ms. Toros' existence, and hinted vaguely that she is more than she appears. What's more, the Cannon Fort came here at the will of the Zoid Eve, whose voice has not been heard in over a century. Apparently, Leena Toros is a matter of great importance to Zoid Eve, and so the Mother finally contacts her children once again."
Angela continued to frown. "What am I to do with this?"
The Lady grinned. "Come now, a young girl being wooed not just by a man but by the siren call of fame and elitism in Jusight? Surely that reminds you of a certain lady—both brave and foolish—who I came to care for very much."
Angela blushed and nodded. That was as public a display of affection as Angela had ever received from the Lady. It was always unspoken, but bringing it out into the open like that was still a fresh revelation. "Yes, I do remember when we met and how much you changed me. Wait, are you saying I should go to Jusight and do the same for this girl?"
The Lady nodded. "Normally I wouldn't ask someone else to bear such a task, but I cannot afford the time and this Ms. Toros is not the kind of girl who would listen to an old woman. Besides, I'm still burnt out from the time I spent teaching you."
Angela laughed. She had been quite the terror in her youth. "Still, I cannot just leave Argos on a whim."
"This isn't a whim. It's advice from a friend. And I already know why you hesitate to go. No, it is not your duties as Fylak's caretaker that hold you back. I will assume that duty while you are away."
Silence held both of them for a long moment. After all this time, after so many requests and invitations, now she suddenly wanted to live in Argos? "W-why?"
"Many reasons. I need you to carry out this important task and if I must assume your responsibilities in the meantime, so be it. And there's the fact I've not gotten to see much of your family. I would like to know how they are doing. Most of all, I'm old and more than a little lonely. Now is the time where I can finally combine socializing with my work; and not just socializing with nitwits at ballrooms. No, I look forward to speaking with your husband and his staff. I sense that I'll find their conversations most rewarding."
Angela pondered for a moment and when she did not speak the Lady said, "You don't have to worry about Atory either. I give you my word as one mother to another that I shall watch out for his well-being. You cannot hover near him all the time, Angela, especially in the dark hours to come. Let the boy spend some time apart from his mother and learn independence. He will still be delighted to see you upon your return."
"But that's just it." Angela sighed. "You taught me for over five years. I cannot stay with Leena Toros that long."
"You needn't spend that much time. In fact, I'd be amazed if you didn't surpass my teachings in less than a year. You're much younger than I was when I first met and instructed you. You'll empathize with her in a way I cannot. Give it sixth months. If you've made no progress and if you don't feel the slightest bit of affection for this young girl, then I personally come and escort you home. Please, Angela, I cannot do this alone."
Angela wanted to sigh or curse or maybe both. Instead she nodded. For the Lady to take this much interest in a young girl like Ms. Toros was a testament to the important events swirling around her identity. Perhaps Angela could be of some help and she knew the Lady did not act on senility or spontaneity. No doubt she'd already considered different scenarios, including Angela's refusal. She would go to Jusight and meet Leena Toros, though she would miss her family painfully.
The Lady smiled and produced a photograph held tightly within a small wooden frame. "Splendid, now for the favor I meant to ask."
"I thought mentoring Leena Toros was the favor."
"No, no, silly girl. Business before personal matters. That's at least 1,753 times I've had to tell you that over the years. Perhaps Leena Toros will understand that concept better than you. This young woman," she tapped the photo, "she is a personal matter."
Angela inspected the picture. The woman displayed in the image was extremely beautiful and was no doubt related to the Lady. Besides the physical resemblance, this woman also wrapped herself in blue. Her eyes where a pale blue that she'd obviously inherited from her grandmother (or was it great-grandmother?). Bluish-green eye-shadow streaked out like twin icicles, making an already imposing glare absolutely frigid. Her hair was darker than the Lady's, bordering navy. Her expression was confident and intimidating, but also hiding a gentleness that one almost missed at first glance.
"My great-granddaughter, Sarah." said the Lady. "She, like so many others in my family, has made the mistake in trying to change the world to suite herself. In doing so she's become hopelessly mired in a situation beyond her control."
"Where is she?"
"In a prison cell, within the ZBC Ultrasaurus that is also located in Jusight." Angela didn't even try to hide her disbelief. The Lady smiled, "Yes, Angela, I am asking you to break my great-granddaughter out of one of the most heavily-guarded fortresses on Zi."
Angela did not speak again, so the Lady continued. "Sarah has always wanted greatness without having the patience to learn how to truly obtain it. This recklessness led her to join the Backdraft and to take part in several disgraceful projects. She's been an idiot but I don't abandon my family members, no matter how foolish."
"And just how am I to free her? You taught me many things, but not espionage."
"I considered that, but abandoned the thought at the last moment."
"A wise choice, I think."
"I do wonder." The Lady smiled, "It would have been much easier to establish Arcadia if a few of your rivals disappeared."
Angela let her expression harden. "That would betray my husband's dream. We'll do things the hard way until the world doesn't allow us otherwise."
"Very noble, if naïve. In any case, Angela, you needn't worry about breaking into the ZBC Ultrasaurus. I didn't teach you such tactics, but you do know where to find people who are skilled in this line of work, and you know how to form the proper alliances. I am sure you will find a way. I cannot make you do this any more than I can force to you to teach Leena Toros, but I ask this as a favor."
Silence smothered both with the Cannon Fort looking between them anxiously. Such a request went beyond a favor between friends. Angela would risk much by even showing her face in Jusight. Anyone who had bothered to learn of Arcadia would accuse her of spying or try to frame her in order to discredit the kingdom and give the ZBC a reason to cross their borders. The ZBC barely acknowledged Arcadia's existence and many people in both Guylos and Helic were pushing to dismiss that recognition. This was a dangerous request.
Still, better to risk a potential scandal over full-scale war. Angela would meet this Leena Toros. As for this Sarah, Angela would research the woman and decide later if she was worth rescuing.
She turned to the Lady, "You will guard Arcadia in my absence?"
"I have always guarded Arcadia in my own way. Now I shall be more public about my aid."
"And you will protect my son and husband?"
"With my life and every resource at my command."
"All right. I will go to Jusight to teach Leena Toros. I make no promises regarding your great-granddaughter. I will decide on that after I have gained information from more objective sources."
The Lady smirked. "Silly Angela, no one alive is objective. To be human is to form opinions. You know that. Still, I thank you for honoring my first request and I am confident you will aid the second. While I would very much like to speak with you about recent events and your life in general, I'm afraid we simply don't have the time. You'd best go back to Argos and prepare for your departure. You'll need to be well situated before you contact Leena Toros. I've already set up several accounts that you may access within Jusight. You'll want for nothing, but do remember what I taught you about humility."
Angela nodded, "May I give you a ride to Argos?"
"No need. I have my own means of travel. I doubt the Cannon Fort will let me ride within her but I think she'll escort me as my companion and I travel." The Cannon Fort gave another loud rumble of affirmation. The Lady motioned to the shadows and a metallic footstep resounded within the hanger. A mechanical saurian, easily as tall as the Roadskipper, emerged into the light with a low purr. Its body was the color of the highest sky and its eyes matched the Lady's. Its snout was narrow and pointed, giving its whole head a sleek, streamline look. The armor of its body was cracked and dented in many places, attesting to its age. It took its place beside its master and wagged its tail slightly.
Angela smiled. "I was wondering where you vanished to, Specula. I hope you watch over Arcadia along with Lady Reese while I am gone."
The blue Organoid's growl sounded like a "yes".
X X X X X X X X
Why here? Why now? Why did she have to be dressed like this? Leena moaned inwardly as Sen swept into the room, his ZBC uniform cape gliding behind him. He moved with such grace and poise, like a king almost, the kind of king Harry was always trying to impersonate. In her borrowed jumpsuit and frayed hair, Leena felt more like a pauper than a princess. Even so, he just smiled at her like she was the greatest sight on all of Zi. That look made her swoon, and she had to admit that her charms worked no matter what the world threw at her.
"Leena," Sen spoke her name like a poem, "we must stop meeting this way." She laughed. "I am serious. This is the second time I've had the pleasure of seeing you in person and once again we meet after my subordinates have wrongfully detained you. I cannot believe the poor luck that seems to hang over our meetings." He took her hand and kissed it gently. Goose bumps leapt all over Leena's skin. "Still, I'm thrilled to see you, no matter what the circumstances."
"Well-I-um…" Leena fought for control of her mouth. Don't slip up now! "It's been a very weird couple of days, so I guess this just tops it off. I'm glad to see you too."
"I've had a few choice words with the task force's leader. Sorry—former leader. Hopefully he'll have learned better manners by the time he regains his rank. It should only take about seven or eight years." Leena knew she should feel sorry for the busted commander but he'd been nothing but an ingrate and a jerk. Why should she shed a tear for a guy like that? Leena was still trying to sort out her feelings about the Backdraft pilot she'd left behind, along with her Gun Sniper.
Sen continued, "I skimmed the report on your… debriefing, though I'd call it an unjust interrogation. Judging from your account and your teammates testimonies, you saved my soldiers and your own friend at great personal cost. I wish this world had more selfless people such as yourself, Leena. We wouldn't have tragedies like Desert Flower City."
Leena suddenly felt uncomfortable. Yes, she'd saved Leo and the ZBC soldiers while losing her battle outfit and Gun Sniper, but she didn't feel like she belonged on such a pedestal. Still, she hadn't heard of anyone else making such a sacrifice. Maybe Sen had a point.
With the wave of the Chairman's hand the guards left and Leena was free to move about as she pleased. At her request, Sen escorted her down the Whale King's hallway to the medical ward. Leo had been taken there after the guards had yanked him away. Before she could delight in seeing Sen again, she had to know if he was all right.
The medical door was so unobtrusive that Leena nearly walked by it. Like everything else on the Whale King it was a stained dark gray monotone that drove Leena crazy. The only distinguishing feature was a barely illuminated "Medical Ward" sign. In the Hover Cargo she'd done everything she could to brighten the hallways up and make the place look like home instead of a fortress. How did military people function like this? How could Sen be so charming when he probably had to work in places just as boring?
The door was slightly ajar with voices drifting out of it. "How are you feeling?"
"Better… but my head still hurts."
"You've lost a lot of blood, so that's natural. I can't give you any medication for that just yet until I'm sure your body won't have any negative side effects. As for your skin…" Leena paused with her hand on the door.
That was definitely Leo's voice coming from within, but what about his skin? She remembered those lights that raced along his muscles, like someone had illuminated his blood veins. There must be another problem with his skin. A rash from the Zoid pool, or a few cuts from all their problems. That had to be it. Yeah.
She was still nervous, though, so she looked back at Sen. He nodded understandingly and stepped back. Thanking him with a smile, she stepped inside. If something was wrong with Leo, she'd rather not announce it to the world, not even to Sen. Later, maybe.
The medical room stung her nose with all sorts of sterilized smells. Some carried a faint alcoholic scent, the rest conjured up images of needles and scalpels. Leena hated hospitals and doctor's officers. They all had the same white curtains and tile floors, polished to the point of glaring brightness, but in the end all they did was depress her. It wasn't all that different from the ZBC's gray corridors. Leo was hiding behind one particularly bright curtain. A spotlight on the opposite side cast tall shadows of Leo's form and a smaller, stubbly fellow leaning forward. Rather than give herself away, Leena crept around and peeked through a gap between curtains.
The doctor, a plump, short man with a poor comb-over, pressed an otoscope into Leo's ear, blocking her view with his broad back. She resisted a snarl and mentally shouted at him to move. Oblivious, he continued his diagnosis, "As far as I can tell, you're in no physical danger. The decontamination shower removed most of the metallic elements from your skin. Once you get some food in you I'm sure your blood will replenish and you'll be feeling fine in no time."
Leo sounded tired and a little worried. "But what about the bullet? And my skin?" Bullet? Wait, he had been shot? That didn't make sense. There was no bullet hole! Oh, move aside, you quack! Get out of the way!
"I've examined the x-ray of the penetration area and there's absolutely no sign of any bullet. I can only imagine that it dissolved in the chemical compound of the birthing pool. A small miracle that your organs and nervous system weren't damaged. I want to keep you overnight for observation, but since I can't hold you any longer than the commander sees fit, I think you'll be on your way by morning. As for your skin, the irritation of the scar tissue is just a small allergic reaction to the minerals. I think it'd be safe to give you a hydrocortisone cream if it's causing you discomfort." Scars? Scars, as in "more than one." What scars?
"Now, the illumination is a little disconcerting, but I can't find anything that wrong with your system…" The doc finally, mercifully, moved aside; and Leena blew her cover. She couldn't help it. The moment she saw Leo's skin, she inhaled too sharply. All those scars, some thin, others so wide she could only envision Leo receiving blows from an axe-man. Despite his pale skin the scars screamed red and stood out like blood on a white sheet. Leena had trembled the moment she saw it and flashed back to the time Leo had barged in on her shower, almost taking his shirt off. What if he had come in half-naked and she'd seen those scars? She wasn't sure how she would have reacted.
And then there was that dance of light, just below his right shoulder as he turned to the side. Another small sparkle lit up his stomach shortly thereafter. The moment Leena realized that she hadn't been hallucinating, that the Zoid pool had done something to Leo, she gasped.
Leo's arm shot out and yanked the curtain back, revealing Leena crouched down like a thief, trying to steal Leo's secrets and dignity. He looked at her for a short moment. Even though he was sitting above he didn't seem to be looking down on her. Instead he just smiled, "Nice outfit."
Leena was too stunned and embarrassed to be angry. "I didn't mean to spy… I was worried and… and…" Damnit, why was she still staring at him? Why couldn't she keep her eyes off his scars? Look away, LOOK AWAY! She kept shouting in her mind but her head wouldn't turn. She could feel hot tears stinging her eyes. Why did she have to see Leo like this?
Leo turned to the Doctor, "Can we have a minute alone?" The doctor nodded, somewhat shaken by the intrusion, and departed. Leo slid off the examination bed, wobbling as his feet touched the floor, and gave his hand to Leena. She numbly took it and joined him back on the bed, sitting side by side. Wordlessly, Leo slowly reached over and wiped the tears off her face. "Don't be embarrassed. This isn't the first time someone's seen me like this and I'm not ashamed."
"But… how… why?"
His smile was a mix of humor and remorse. "Helping people and Zoids out doesn't always come with a reward. I got a lot of these scars by wandering around and being an idiot. Sometimes the scar was a medal for a deed well done. Most of the time they're dunce caps that remind me of a very painful lesson. I already said that I won't regret helping people, so I won't be ashamed of these scars. It's the scars that came from doing things that didn't help people that I hate, but I always seem to remember their cause pretty clearly." He rubbed his chest with his thumb, right atop a small patch of pink, round flesh that didn't match the surrounding tissue.
"But your skin… the glowing…"
"Pretty freaky, huh? I was really worried when I first realized I was lighting up whenever I moved, but the doctor said that it's not dangerous and it's even started to dim over the last hour. It's probably some side-effect; won't last long. I think I'll be back to normal by tomorrow.
"I'm sorry." said Leena, "Sorry I made you go with me into that base. Sorry you got shot because of it… Sorry you always get hurt around me."
Leo arched his eyebrows. "Shouldn't I be the one apologizing? I mean… you lost your Zoid because I was careless."
Leena shook her head. "I'm not all that sorry. I mean, I'm sorry the Gun Sniper's gone, but I don't feel the same way about Zoids as you. I made a tough choice, but I knew you'd be even more upset if Fang was destroyed instead of my Gun Sniper."
A small laugh came from Leo. "You're the only person who uses Fang's name besides myself. Thanks. And for the record, I chose to go with you into the base, so don't starting thinking you're bad luck for me or anything like that. I'm not sorry I went with you, only sorry that it cost you."
He squeezed Leena's hand and she squeezed back. Relief flooded through her, granting a moment of peace. The world had changed in just a day, but for a moment Leena felt like things were normal, just talking with Leo.
Then he asked, "How'd you get over here anyway? The guards wouldn't let me see anyone."
"You won't believe it. I was locked away tight. The only people who came to visit was the medic who wanted a blood sample, and the guy who brought me this lousy jumpsuit. Then Sen appeared and got me out with a word. He took me right over to see you."
Now the peace was gone, and Leo removed his hand. "Sen Vaez?"
"I don't know any other Sen."
"What the hell is he doing here?"
"He came to survey the damaged city. What's wrong with that?"
Leo's face turned sour. "The head of the ZBC shouldn't be poking at rubble. He should be finding the people who planned this and arresting them."
Now Leena was defensive and offended by Leo's insensitivity. "He's going to do that. He just came by to show his support for the people."
"Many of whom have already left."
Leena stood up and folded her arms. The distance between them now felt much greater than the room. "I wouldn't be able to see you if Sen hadn't come along. He was even polite enough to wait outside with the doctor." She glanced at the door. "He's probably wondering what's taking us so long."
X X X X X X X X
"Doctor, what can you tell me about your patient's condition.?" Vaez kept his tone pleasant, even though the shy doctor before him should have delivered a report immediately. The man was being absurdly tight-lipped as they strolled down the otherwise deserted hallway. Vaez had requested the man walk with him, out of Leena Toros' earshot.
"With respect, sir, this is a matter of doctor-patient confidentiality."
"This may be a matter of security. Your patient…"
"L-Leo."
"Yes, Leo, he was internally exposed to a Zoid birthing pool. Such an event has never been recorded and it may have unintended consequences. Please tell me your findings, for the sake of Zi. I believe you are allowed to disclose information should it prevent greater harm, yes?"
The doctor waited far too long, and sealed his eventual fate with his silence. But perhaps Vaez would be merciful if the information proved useful. "W-well, sir, physically he's in no danger, but there is an abnormality I wanted to further investigate overnight before telling the patient."
"Oh?"
"Yes, well… although he's suffered no damage to his nervous system, some of his blood samples suggest that the minerals from the pool are binding with his circulatory and nervous systems. It hasn't manifested any changes yet, but I'm not sure what this means. It could just be the result of the pool's solution seeping through the bullet wound. I just don't know."
Vaez nodded. He'd been concerned that the pool had somehow healed 12515's wound. A small miracle, that. Wouldn't it have been wonderful if he'd simply died right then and there. Leena Toros would have eagerly joined Vaez's upcoming cause in such a case. Then again, Vaez could not hope for so much from an unplanned turn of events. The Blitz Team's presence was totally random. By all rights, the troops holding them in detention should have been dead by now.
At least there had been no tragedy. Leena Toros was alive and had experienced the Backdraft's rage first-hand. She'd definitely join him after seeing such senseless slaughter. And 12515 wouldn't be an issue much longer. Vaez had wondered if he might be able to have the boy dissected to learn any secrets from the Zoid pool's influence, but it appeared that 12515 was the same as always: a failed experiment. No need to keep him alive if he had nothing to contribute.
"Sir?"
"Yes, Doctor?"
"There's something else you should know… though I'm hesitant to mention it. As you said, it could be a matter of security… Because of Mr. Leo's condition, I requested a blood sample from Ms. Toros as well, seeing as how she dove into the pool after Mr. Leo."
"… Really…"
"She did not display any internal traces of the pool's minerals, so I can only assume that her body repelled any contaminants. But I did find something else within her blood: an unusually high number of hormones that are usually seen in human-Zoidian hybrids. For them to be so present in her blood stream is a sign that she may be awakening. What's more is that the hormone count is much higher than any other subject within her generation. Why, for the numbers to be this high her mother would have to be-"
"Doctor." Damn it all. "You are right to mention this to me.
I have no doubt that the Backdraft would seek to make use of such a rare trait.
Tell me, have you made any logs of this discovery?"
"Not yet. I was about to mail
a few notes after I finished with Mr. Leo." Some small
salvation. But what to do now? In his haste to
control the unwelcome changes to his script, Vaez had neglected to bring his
shadow guardsmen along. Even now he could hear his Grandfather laugh at him
from beyond the grave.
"Missed something, did you, boy? You won't be able to control a city, much less a planet, with such sloppy planning."
Quiet, old man. Vaez's mind whirled. He was smart enough to do this. He could find a way to keep this secret. All he needed was a way to hide this bumbler who had discovered such a precious secret. They were alone now. It was an opportune time. He just needed a way to cover up…
Salvation came from a mop and filled water bucket. They lay poised at the end of the hallway, beside a rather long flight of stairs. YES! This was his answer. Fate supported his rule once more. Vaez quickly checked his leather-gloved hands and regarded the doctor calmly. "Doctor, can you come downstairs with me briefly? I wish to write a joint report with you on this matter to the council, and to the leaders of both Helic and Guylos. Such information must be kept to the highest circle of secrecy."
"Well, of course, sir, but shouldn't we check on Mr. Leo and Ms. Toros first?"
"It will not take very long. I'm sure they can wait." 12515 should savor his last few days around Leena. "This is a very important matter, one that will give you a great deal of attention. Imagine making your report to the heads of Zi's leading powers." There, that got the fool's attention. "After you." Beaming, the Doctor took one step on the stairs.
Vaez's foot lashed out, knocking over the fated bucket of water and sending its contents splashing down the stairwell. The Doctor turned around, puzzled, only to be seized by the mouth. Vaez twisted with both hands. A wet snap silenced the Doctor's muffled scream and his body toppled down the stairs, flopping onto the landing and rolling still.
Striding to the opposite wall, Vaez chimed the Whale King's captain. "Send an emergency crew to stairwell B-38. The ship's doctor has fallen and apparently broken his neck. Also, find out who was scheduled for janitorial duty in this section." No doubt the careless individual would be blamed and reprimanded for his folly. Vaez, however, would find the man's name and give him a chance at redemption. After all, his ineptitude had saved the day. He deserved a small reward.
Vaez would have to be more careful in the future. From this day forward, he would always have a shadow guardsman nearby, just in case. He'd also have to make sure one of his own people supervised the autopsy and investigation into this death.
Without waiting for the medical team, Vaez returned to the medical ward in time to see Leena storm out.
X X X X X X X X
Leo was being stupid. Stupid, stubborn, jealous, arrogant, ungrateful; Leena couldn't think of enough words to describe him. She'd have to invent a whole new term to even come close to describing him and his pathetic attitude. From the moment she'd mentioned Sen's name, Leo had suddenly switched into paranoia and jealousy. He kept saying, "you're way too trusting, Leena," and "Something about that guy doesn't feel right." As if he had a right to talk.
Looking at Sen striding with his air of authority, Leena could clearly see that Leo was just envious that Sen was on such a higher level, and that Sen had more of Leena's affections than anyone. The way he moved was like something out of a dream; a handsome prince who commanded respect from everyone around him. When soldiers and crew passed Sen, they saluted out of genuine respect instead of habit or training. Few men could handle power and authority with the same grace as Sen Vaez. Leena wanted to smirk that her charms had taken in both Sen and Leo, but for some reason Leo's attitude robbed her of that pleasure.
Sen led Leena to the main hanger where a jeep shuttled them over to Sen's personal Whale King. Inside he led her to his private office. It waited behind an oak-wood door with an elaborate frame that seemed out of place against the Whale King's hard, dark metal. The inside furnishings were likewise fashioned out of rare and expensive material. The drapes against the window were a silken blue and the plush carpet matched the color of forests. A set of chairs and a sofa, all stylized with regal curves, encircled an elegant but short table. On the other side of the room stood a large desk with the three flags of Helic, Guylos, and the ZBC hanging on the wall. To her surprise, a metal ring with a curtain encircled one small section of the wall. It enclosed a mirror and a small rack of uniforms and other formal attire. Obviously, Sen sometimes had to change on the go.
A tall metal pillar stood awkwardly in the corner opposite the changing station. When it shuffled across the floor to meet them, Leena realized it was a custom-built robot like Harry's servants. It resembled Benjamin: a tall stack of metallic disks. However, the two disks that comprised its "chest" were equal in size and had eight port holes along their curved edges. The robot's visor also encompassed its entire head, enabling it to see in any direction without reorienting its body. The leg wheels also appeared to be able to shift direction without turning the body.
"Master Vaez, Lady Toros, welcome." It spoke with a cold, precise voice, totally devoid of the human tones Leena expected from one of Harry's robots.
"Cura, bring Ms. Toros' gift." The robot halted and began to move back towards the desk without spinning around. "Yes, master." The robot moved over to the desk.
"Cura is a custom model I bought to care for my office and home while I am working. I am a bit of a slob. He doesn't have much of a personality, but I don't mind since I prefer human friends to robots."
Sen reached over, moved his hand around her waist and rested it on her hip. She gasped slightly, for she hadn't expected such an intimate touch. "Leena…" He pulled her close and whispered in her ear. "No matter what the circumstances, I am overjoyed to see you." Leena could feel her face shift colors and her whole body suddenly felt as if a small quake arose in her chest. Before she knew it, his lips pressed against hers and a fire exploded through all her senses. He smelled like powerful spice, the kind of overpowering sensation that fell just short of a drug. The passion in his kiss made her feel like fire burned across his lips and into her body. She wrapped her arms around his neck and pulled him close, holding the embrace until they both had to come up for air.
"I have something for you." He didn't remove his hand from her hip even as they walked to the middle of the room where Cura awaited with a package. It was elegantly wrapped with a purple and pink silk bow tied across the top left corner. He handed it to her, and with trembling hands she removed the cover. "It's not much, but I think it will be preferable to that jumpsuit you've been forced to endure."
"Preferable" was too mild a word. Leena preferred a missile launcher to a machine gun. She preferred pasta to pizza as a victory meal. She preferred to score the winning shot for her team rather than let Bit steal the glory. This outfit, these clothes that Sen had brought her… these were a divine sending compared to the tent she wore at the moment.
Sen beckoned her over to the small changing area. She immediately slide the curtain around her and began to change clothes. "Sen, are you sure this will fit?"
"It will, I assure you."
"Don't tell me you guessed my measurements from the last time we met."
"No, but I have reliable sources. My personal designer said these clothes would look perfect on you. Though I have to say you made even that raggedy jumpsuit look impressive." Leena blushed.
Sen's gift wasn't cheap. Leena would have had to save her winnings from almost twenty battles to cover their cost. The entire outfit was a simple but beautiful blending of red and white silk that shimmered as she ran her fingers over the soft fabric. The outfit was actually a pair of dresses designed to be worn together. The crimson dress cut off just above her knees and left her shoulders bare, resting around her neck for support. The white dress was significantly lighter and shorter, barely covering her hips. It rested lightly above her breasts, allowing the red of the undergarment to show through. Silken ribbons folded down from the white dress to circle her arms, but did not cover them completely. They instead wrapped around above her elbow and on her wrist. A pink sash kept the clothing close to her waist. Sen had also included a pair of shoes with slightly raised heels and a few simple pieces of jewelry, most noticeable an emerald broach with a gold ring that attached to the top of her white dress.
As she dressed, Sen continued speaking, "I was shocked to learn of your presence in Desert Flower City. The ZBC schedule said you weren't supposed to be in this area. In fact, I believe you have a match later this afternoon."
"It's a long story, but we were sidetracked and couldn't make it. We'll just have to accept a loss this time."
"I could fly your team over in my Whale King. I can even arrange for a slight delay of the contest."
Leena sighed, touched by the ultimately futile offer. "I'm afraid that wouldn't work. But thank you, Sen. During the bombing, Bit and the Liger were shot down, and Bit's out of action for a long time. Plus, my Gun Sniper's gone. Our team is too short-handed.
"I see…" Sen entered a pensive silence. Leena examined her new outfit and posed before Stepping beyond the curtain. It was still a little odd that Sen knew her measurements and foot-size so accurately, but she was too enchanted to worry about that now.
"Beautiful." Sen smiled when he saw her. "Absolutely stunning." He handed her a glass of wine and led her over to the couch. "The world is a mess right now. President Vereor and Emperor Kamuffel are both looking for scapegoats for this catastrophe. The people want to know who is to blame, and so both Helic and Guylos are looking for the quickest, simplest excuse. I cannot do the same. I'm going to make an address in an hour or so and take responsibility for failing to detect this strike."
"But it wasn't your fault! No one saw this coming."
"It is the ZBC's job to defend against such strikes. The failings of the ZBC are my failings as a leader. Any time a soldier fails in his duty or acts with misconduct, it is a reflection on the leader's poor ability. I cannot waste time dodging blame if I am to atone for this mistake. My hope is that my honesty will contrast with the Emperor and the President's attitudes, and people will accept and forgive me so that we may move on quickly to crush the Backdraft. But I cannot achieve this goal as I am now.
"Leena, your unexpected appearance here may be the only good thing to come out of this entire ordeal, and I do not only say that as someone who takes great delight in seeing you. I believe that you may be my salvation in leading the ZBC against Backdraft."
Leena frowned, "What can I do? I mean, you're the Chairman and Commissioner."
"Yes, but even though I can order men and women to fight, even though I can ask kings and presidents for support, I cannot make them believe in me. I cannot make them fight for our cause with all their hearts. In times of war, a time we have now entered, governments need heroes and heroines to stand up as examples for other people. We need to set a standard for everyone. You and your team have sacrificed a tremendous amount with little payoff over the last two days. You've given up the money that would surely be yours from the Zoids battle, you've aided an entire city during a terrorist raid, and you yourself have sacrificed a great many personal possessions to save the life of a teammate. Few people on Zi are capable of such sacrifice." Sen paused and left his praise hovering in the air between them. Leena breathed his words in and let their truth fill her whole body. It made her feel warm and appreciated.
"Leena, do you know about the ZBC's history?"
"No. I was never much of a history fan."
"I am deeply thrilled by history; to know how people reacted in the past and to hold that against our actions now. Knowing our history also helps us better understand our current situation. This is especially true since I plan to call on Zoid Warriors to aid in the battle against the Backdraft. Unfortunately, there is a terrible rift between ZBC soldiers and Zoid Warriors. Decades ago, the Guardian Force sought to channel the aggressive nature of humans and Zoids into a healthy release. Some revolutionary thinkers concocted Zoids Battles, and after much deliberation the Guardian Force reorganized itself as the Zoids Battle Commission. Over time, more and more people became Zoid Warriors. It reached the point where the profits and fame of the sport allowed almost anyone to become a Warrior.
"But soldiers are different from Warriors. They must be disciplined, see the larger picture, and not fight for personal glory. Such things come to those who deserve the honor but do not focus on such minor accomplishments. With a few exceptions, the majority of Zoid Warriors are self-motivated and unwilling to work with anyone beyond their nuclear team. They feel confined by military law and regulations. On other end of the spectrum, many soldiers are far too rigid and cannot think for themselves. They despise Warriors as unruly and undisciplined. I fear that if I try to mix my soldiers with the independently-minded Warriors, the two will resist one another and eventually our entire force would self-destruct. I need someone who can be both a Warrior and a soldier: a champion of the battlefield who can unite the fighters of Zi against their common foe. I want you, Leena."
"ME?" That was the only word that came to Leena's mind at the moment. "M-me? You can't be serious. I mean, Bit's the hot-shot pilot everyone's talking about."
"Bit Cloud is wounded, and I cannot wait for his recovery. But even if he were fit for service I would still want you. Bit is too closely associated with Warriors; my soldiers would never accept him. You are far better suited for this task. You are already an established Warrior, but Bit has diverted much of the fame you are owed. Soldiers will accept you after you've shown your prowess in battle. And it doesn't hurt that you're incredibly lovely. You were almost born for such a feat. Come to Jusight with me. I will help you become the princess of the Zoids Battles, and goddess of the war against the Backdraft. You can save countless lives by serving as an example to all who would fight. Come with me, Leena."
"But… but my team, and my family…"
"I realize that I am making a selfish request. You will not have time to see your family. As for your team… I'm sorry, Leena, but with one pilot down and your team short a Zoid, I doubt your team will remain active. The rules of the current season are much harsher, and any weakened team will drop in the ranks quickly, even one that enjoys your strength. One of your pilots is a mercenary, correct? I can only assume he'll be leaving the team once the money stops coming." Leena wanted to object and say that Brad wasn't like that; but maybe Sen was right. "Leena, the Blitz Team has been crippled and now it is time for you to move on. I don't ask for an answer right away, but please think on this quickly and tell me your answer soon. I know you will do what is best for yourself and for Zi." He leaned over and kissed her again, causing her already whirling mind to shut down. "I must soon prepare for my press conference, so we cannot stay together as long as I'd wish. For now, let's not talk about Backdraft or the ZBC. I'd much rather focus on you."
Leena didn't bother to answer. Now it was her turn to reach over and kiss him.
X X X X X X X X
"You're leaving?" Leo wasn't sure he could believe his ears. For a moment, when he first set foot back on the Blitz Team's Hover Cargo, he'd hoped that life would return to semi-normal. After a three hour wait with no other visitors, Leo received a release notice. Vaez had Leena off the hook in less than half an hour, and the others returned soon after that. Leo's overnight stay had been cut short due to the Doctor reportedly falling down a staircase and dying. Leo's sadness at the man's death overwhelmed any frustration from the waiting. After everything that had happened, a man tripping and falling to his death seemed like a terrible joke. At the same time, Leo felt strange about Sen Vaez's proximity to such an unfortunate event. Despite Leena's fan-girl delusions, bad things happened around this Vaez guy. Not to mention Leo felt something strange whenever he was around Vaez, as if he knew him from somewhere.
Maybe I am a little jealous, Leo thought as he glanced over at Leena. He shifted his gaze away to the other team members and did not allow himself to dwell on the thoughts and voices that came to him in the Zoid pool.
Leo had finally returned to the Hover Cargo to find Bit and Yuki still in recovery. Brad and the others were all right and more than concerned for Leo's recovery. Leena was even sporting new clothes (and Leo had to admit she looked pretty hot). But as Doc gathered everyone except Bit into the main conference room, Leo had an ominous feeling that reflected in the faces of his teammates.
"Yes, I've chosen to leave the Blitz Team."
"But why? I mean, we're going to be in a tight spot without you, Jamie."
The Blitz Team's youngest member nodded. "I know, and I'm sorry to do this when everything is so chaotic. With Bit in recovery and Leena's Gun Sniper destroyed…" He was silent for a moment with that passive quiet that suited Jamie so well. For such a timid boy to make this decision… Leo was amazed.
Jamie shook his head and regained his confidence. "Yuki's family was kidnapped and turned into slave labor by the Backdraft. They probably had to help make that monster Zoid that used to be my Pteras. Yuki's all alone in the world now and people have taken advantage of that. She's without a Zoid and low on money, I have to help her."
"Have to or want to?" Leena leaned forward, a sly grin on her face. "Are you trying to be her knight in shinning armor?" Jamie's face went red.
Doc was more serious. "Without you, Jamie, I doubt we'll be able to function as smoothly."
Brad nodded. "Doc will spend all our money on new weapons and his toys."
"Models."
"Toys."
"MODELS!" Leo tuned out the shouting match between Doc and Brad and focused on Jamie, who was still putting up with Leena's teasing.
"Jamie, this isn't going to be an easy trip. You won't be able to come back to the base easily, and you might end up on an entirely different continent."
"I know, I know. The truth is that it scares me, a lot. But after everything that's happened, after everything that I know Yuki's gone through, it just feels wrong to drop her off and leave. I want to see this through to the end. Besides, after all the trouble I've caused this team, I'm not sure I belong here anymore."
Doc and Brad ended their argument upon hearing Jamie. "Not true. You'll always have a place on our team."
Leo nodded. "Besides, we're not sorry we came here. We managed to do a lot of good in spite of all the problems." Everyone, even Leena and Brad, nodded in agreement. "So I guess all that's left is to wish you luck, Jamie. That, and convert your Raynos into a two-seater."
"What?" Jamie gaped. "You're okay with all this?"
Leo laughed. "You're the most mature member of the team. I'm sure you'll be fine. Now, if it was Leena or Bit heading off, then I'd be worried."
"What's that supposed to mean?" Leo didn't answer Leena.
Doc began acting like a leader again and commissioned Brad and Leena to gather supplies for Jamie and Yuki while he oversaw a transfer of funds to Jamie's account. The team would send Jamie off with a significant bonus to help in his travels. Meanwhile, Leo and Jamie went down to the hanger and found a beat-up pilot's chair that had been salvaged from some Zoid ages ago. It was tattered and worn with part of the stuffing poking out of several places. There was also an unpleasant smell that seemed to be a mix of rotten fish and grease. Jamie sewed and cleaned the seat while Leo began moving equipment within the Raynos.
Despite its high-speed format, the Raynos was relatively easy to convert into a two-seater. Yuki would have to curl up somewhat to fit in, and Jamie would be limited in high-speed maneuvers, but Leo knew how to rearrange or reconfigure equipment and connections to fit an extra seat. It took about two hours. Leo wiped off his hands and closed the cockpit behind him, patting the Zoid goodbye. "Gonna miss you, Air Raid."
"Air Raid?" Jamie looked confused.
"That's the name I gave your Zoid. Sorry to name him without asking you."
Jamie smiled. "It's a good name. I like it. Did you name everyone's Zoid?"
Leo smiled regretfully. "Leena's Gun Sniper was Ballistic. Brad's Shadow Fox was simply Shadow, and Liger Zero was Zero."
"Not exactly original names. You did better with my Zoid and Leena's."
"Everyone's a critic." They laughed, but Leo felt a pang at Ballistic's name. It hurt to know a Zoid had been sacrificed for him. He didn't feel like he deserved such a gift. He wasn't sure how Ballistic had felt, alone and petrified as the base began to evaporate around him. It wasn't fair, but Leo knew that life didn't allow for fair-play most of the time.
Jamie seemed to be reading his thoughts. "Leo, you've been around to a lot of places, right?"
"Yeah."
"What can you tell me? Any advice? I'm still really nervous about leaving."
Leo motioned for them to sit down with their backs pressing against Air Raid's cool green armor. "You'll probably see a lot of stuff that just seems wrong or unfair. It probably is, but you're going to have to realize that life isn't always fair or kind. You may see people abusing each other on a level far more personal than any terrorist strike. It may make you feel like giving up on people… make you think that humans aren't worth being around. I know I felt that way more than a few times. Leena once pointed out that I'm more comfortable around Zoids than people." Jamie nodded, but remained silent.
"I came to this team partly because I saw Leena being chased and shot at by several gang members in Molgas. Then we were attacked by the Diloforce and nearly died. After that, Leena and I were arrested for saving a woman from thieves and rapists. Next thing I know, we're in Desert Flower City and the whole world is suddenly burning, I get shot, and Leena's Zoid dies.
"You see where I'm going with this, Jamie? Bad stuff happens for what might seem like no apparent reason, and I'm not sure there really is a simple explanation. It seems so random and indiscriminate. But for all the problems in the world, there are still people who are willing to help and make sacrifices. You can find several of those people on this team, and I see a lot of that in you. If you focus more on the positive actions of people rather than letting the bad parts overwhelm you, you'll be fine. You're a good guy, Jamie, and I've got total confidence in you. And I'm sure we'll meet again."
Jamie smiled, his eyes a little watered. "Thanks, Leo. I'm glad you stayed with this team." Leo was glad as well. After cleaning up, the team gathered in the Hover Cargo's medical bay. Arrayed around Bit and with Yuki watching from her own bed, the team held up a toast for Jamie and Yuki's safe voyage. When asked to make a toast, Jamie differed to Leo.
For a moment, Leo wasn't sure what to say. Being the newest member, he didn't share as many memories as the others. Yet at the same time this team had grown on him so much. He'd forgotten the last time he'd considered leaving. Complaining about this team's oddities was still common, but leaving wasn't a favorable option anymore. With so many losses and now Jamie's departure, Leo doubted the Blitz Team would endure. So there was really only one thing he could say that fit this beautiful, heart-shattering moment.
"Here's to the Blitz Team: the most bizarre and wonderful team that's ever existed." Everyone clinked their glasses while shouting "Cheers!" and laughing on into the night.
X X X X X X X X
Marvelous.
Vaez looked at the notice several times to confirm that it wasn't a dream. Jamie Hermeros, the Blitz Team's tactician, was leaving. The team had filed his notice of departure barely ten minutes ago. Vaez had been looking for Leena's notice, but this was an even greater gift.
Now he was even more confident that she'd join him. It was set so perfectly. Bit Cloud was indisposed and Jamie Hermeros gone. I've done it, Grandfather, he thought. I've done what your precious Backdraft could never accomplish: I've broken the Blitz Team.
The time was nearly right. All that remained was to scatter the remnant of the Blitz Team so Leena would have nowhere to go but into his arms.
Bit Cloud would not be an issue. It would be a good half a year before he was back in fighting shape. The problems lay with Leena's family and Brad Hunter. Vaez already had plans for Leena's father and brother, but what to do about the mercenary?
He doubted Leena would work as a freelancer, but after the debacle with the medic, Vaez would take no chances.
Then he remembered that young Jamie had reportedly left with a girl as his companion. A few moments research through unofficial channels identified the girl as Yuki Summit, the only member of her village to escape the BD's labor force. No doubt Jamie had left to aid the girl in his search. They had no idea how hopeless a task they undertook.
If Jamie could be pulled from the script through such means, why not Brad Hunter? Vaez began to sift through all the Blitz Team's known friends and relations. He found a wonderful tool to occupy all of Brad's time and focus; a beauty known to the Zoids battle world as the Red Comet: Naomi Flügel.
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Author's Note: I realize that many people will be sad at the Blitz Team's inevitable breakup, but I've always found the whole team concept limiting. My hope is that spreading the characters out will make things more interesting. Don't worry, we'll be seeing everyone again at one point or another.
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