Episode 02x01
Invisible, part 1
Mid-morning grew into late morning. The sun shined brightly on the metropolis that nearly twelve months ago was the epicenter of doom and gloom on a once a week basis. The glass windows on high-rise buildings seemed to glisten a little more, the flowers and trees plotted about the streets had a particular fragrance to them.
The quaint Bagel Nosh Cafe on 8th and Main had a formidable line coming out its front door with customers eagerly awaiting their daily fix of bagels, muffins, and quite possibly the best cup of joe Southern California has to offer.
"Soooooooo long, New Tech City! Johnny B and the Morning Crew bidding you adios 'til tomorrow. Rachie is up next to take you through the rest of the workday with the best mix of 2000s, 2010s, and today's hits until three, but before we go we'd like to give a huge thank you to Space Patrol Delta for their volunteer work this weekend with the Joshua House. Thank you so much for taking the opportunity to meet with the kids. If you'd like more information on J.H. and how to adopt, hit up our web site zntc905 dot com!"
Sydney Drew and Bridge Carson walked down the busy side street, fully decked in their respective SPD officer uniforms. Their routine foot patrol seemed more of a routine stroll nowadays. They could count the number of incidents on one hand that have occurred within the last eleven or so months while on patrol.
"Ooo! Kira!" Syd squealed as she and her comrade walked past the newsstand to which the radio box was stationed.
"Speaking of which, I saw her on some VH1 reality show last night," Bridge said pitching his now empty styrofoam cup into the nearest receptacle.
"Oh I know! Wasn't that awful?"
"Affirmations of a ruined career, oh how bitter sweet it is!"
Sydney giggled and slapped her best friend's arm. The two arrived at the crowded street corner waiting to cross.
"Excuse me, miss?" a panicked voice called out.
Syd turned to see a mother holding her child underneath her arm. The boy looked to be nine or so. His skin was unnaturally white and eyes were narrowed as if just awaken. He could hardly stand. Each breath was a heave. Something was obviously wrong.
"Oh my gosh. What happened?" Syd asked helping to keep the boy standing erect.
"I don't know. We were fine just a few minutes ago and all of a sudden my Daniel nearly fainted! I caught him thankfully but I don't know what to do! Is he going to die?" the mother asked nearly in hysterics.
"Okay, calm down. We can assist you," Bridge said kneeling beside the boy. "Daniel, can you hear me?"
Daniel gave a slight nod.
"Okay. Now follow my finger," Bridge instructed.
He waved the gloved index to the left, to the right, then to the left again. Daniel couldn't follow.
"This isn't good. We need to get him to the hospital now," Bridge said scooping the boy into his arms.
The mother was fully in tears. Syd consoled her with a hand of sympathy around her shoulder.
"It'll be okay. We'll get him the help he needs."
"Syd, get her and Daniel's information. I'll get him to the jeep and head down to New Tech General."
"You got it."
She had everyone's attention. Sure, the guy dancing with her was vital to the demonstration, but she had a particular ora about her, a boldness that would keep your eye captive to the very last step. The girl in light-canary tights bowed with her partner and smiled brightly. The performance was received with great applause.
The gray-haired attendees of New Tech Community's salsa class disbanded for their fifteen minute break. Instructors Elizabeth 'Z' Delgado and Steven Torres shared the same smile of satisfaction.
"We're getting good!" Z said grabbing her sport bottle.
"Good? That was perfect. You're amazing," Steven said reaching for his towel.
Humbled, Z grinned.
"You really think so?"
"Definitely. And the people here love you. You've been a welcomed addition to the community center, Z."
"Oh, wow. Thanks, Steve. I know I came here because of SPD's new community service requirements for all officers and cadets, but I'm really glad I stuck around. I really like it here."
"I'm glad you're here, too."
That smile -- Z looked away not to stare.
"I'm going to get some more water," she said.
"Okay. Hurry back."
Z stepped out the room headed toward the staff lounge. If she was alone in the hall, she'd smack her head and shout obscenities to herself. This was not the Elizabeth Delgado she knew. The Delgado she knew was never crazy over boys or any one in particular. The Delgado she knew wasn't the type of girl to plan her wedding with the proverbial Prince Charming that one day would come and sweep her off her feet.
Who knew Prince Charming would end up being tall, dark, and a former GQ cover model who could dance as well as he could probably ... OH GOD. I didn't blush, did I?
A crashing thud and panicked voices brought Z out of her daydream. The SPD officer spun around and saw a small huddle of senior citizens around one of her students.
"Elaine! What happened?" Z said coming to the woman's side.
"I - I - I don't know! I was talking with the girls and I got all dizzy and--"
The white-haired salsa student had gone into convulsion. Her mouth foamed as her eyes slid back to solid white. Hollers of panic surrounded them again. Z sprinted back to the ballroom to find her gym bag. She had smacked right into Steven at the doorway.
"I hear screaming. What's wrong?" he asked her.
"Elaine's in trouble. I'm calling for help," Z said rushing to get her morpher.
Z fished for the black and silver device and flipped it open. She ran back out to find Elaine.
"SPD batch number BY4 requesting an ambulance at New Tech Community on 83th. We have a woman in convulsion, possibly a seizure," Z spoke into the morpher's comm piece.
She knelt down beside Elaine and placed a towel underneath her head so it wouldn't knock against the floor. Steven came next with a blanket and covered her body.
"Thanks," Z said giving him a small smile.
"Anytime."
Space. The great beyond. Earth sat as a slowly-spinning blue and grey orb. It hadn't been bothered in awhile. The occasional space traveler to and from the planet would be seen, typically a caravan shuttle of alien visitors looking to migrate to or visit the planet.
A weak half-grin pushed onto Sky Tate's lips as the thought crossed his mind. They were Space Patrol Delta, but they hardly ever patrolled outer space! This was one of the few times he has actually done so. Aboard the SPD craft, he and a fellow cadet stared aimlessly into space -- literally.
"Sky, this is the second day we've patrolled this sector outside Earth. Again, we found nothing," Ben said slouching in his chair.
"Commander Cruger's orders," was Sky's straight-forward reply.
Ben straightened his posture at his superior's disapproving look. The colorless cadet uniform brought back memories for Sky. The C-Squad cadet had been assigned to him for the next few weeks. Commander hadn't issued an e-mail, but word was the big blue dog was scouting for a new B-Squad Green. Ben showed -- potential.
"So how many girls have you nailed?"
Sky nearly spit out his coffee.
"W-what?" the B-Squad leader asked setting down his mug.
"You're SPD. I'm sure girls go nuts for that. You know, a guy in uniform."
"One, I am your superior, so address me in title and speech as such. Two, your question violates SPD code 7C14 on the grounds of unprofessional conduct between two SPD associates."
Ben blinked.
"So do you get tail or not?"
"When you're SPD, you can get anything you want."
"Yes! I knew it!"
"But," Sky cautioned. He returned his focus to the black frontier. "The spoils do just that. You lose your sense of commitment by running around outside the job. We already lost a good cadet because of it. We don't need to lose another."
"You don't need to preach to me about commitment or discipline for that matter. I didn't get to C-Squad by the skin of my teeth," Ben said in defense.
"I know you didn't. And the only reason C-Squad exists because they are expected to be B-Squad status within the 16 months."
"W-wait. What? Come again?"
Sky bit his lip.
"Said too much."
Ben laughed and pumped a fist into the air.
"I knew it! Commander Cruger wants me for B-Squad. Isn't that it? Isn't that why he assigned me as your buddy?"
"Shadow," Sky promptly corrected him.
"Shadow, whatever."
"Don't draw conclusions without the facts, Ben. My guess is as good as yours -- but you are being watched closely and evaluated. So if I were you, I'd mind my p's and q's and put in volunteer overtime for foot patrol."
Ben stooped.
"I hate foot patrol. The city has their own cops to catch petty thieves. I'm here to bust any mutant freaks who think they're above our laws."
"Keep that attitude about foot patrol and you'll never make B-Squad. There will be plenty of patrolling in the next year. Believe me. I know."
Ben pondered the thought of joining the world renowned SPD B-Squad. He turned his gaze to outer space and pictured the battles he'd be involved in, the times when he'd be in charge of Megazord formations and strategic attacks, the opportunities he would have to save innocent lives and protect defenseless colonies. Oh, and the women, the many women that would fulfill every filthy desire.
"Officer Tate, come in," a soft voice called over the panel's speakers.
"Officer Tate reporting," Sky replied in his usual militant tone.
"Commander Cruger has ordered all B-Squad officers to promptly report to base. A situation requires your immediate attention."
"Understood. I will abort patrol and set course for SPD Headquarters. Thank you, Sophie."
"You are welcome, Sky. Over."
"And out," Sky said flicking the comm. switch to off. "Ready to go, Ben?"
"Like an hour ago."
The SPD craft activated its thrusters and blasted back toward Earth.
Anubis Cruger sat patiently at his command post waiting for the arrival of his top officers, the B-Squad. Surveillance of the headquarters kept his eyes busy. He never really paid much attention, but the command center was blue, real blue. The color was apt however. The room felt cold and sterile.
It was only a year ago this place was bustling with SPD staff, Kat Manx missing more notably. There hadn't been a need for anyone to be in the awkwardly-lit control room aside from the routine monitoring or scan activity. Sure, crime wasn't gone for good. SPD still worked with NTPD on cases where the assistance of Delta Cadets was necessary, but Doggy often found himself alone as of late.
Isinia had gone to visit her mother several galaxies over and Kat's been wrapped up with a special assignment from Galaxy Command. She's been gone for over a week now.
The twin steel doors slid open and in came four of the world's finest.
"B-Squad!"
The four jumped, obviously startled.
"Sorry," Doggie digressed, realizing his zealous greeting was a bit much for human ears.
"Sir, what's the emergency?" Sky queried.
"Officer Tate, we have an epidemic on our hands. Your peers are already aware of this situation. Citizens all over New Tech City are falling ill at a rapid pace. New Tech General has taken in over seventy new patients today, all exhibiting everything from extreme seizures, brain hemorrhages, respiratory failure, and other problems. City officials have reacted and shut down water supply as a precaution. I need you four to find leads as to what is causing civilians to succumb to this mysterious bug."
"YES, SIR," the four said crossing their chests with torqued forearms, the SPD salute for agreement, acknowledgement, and respect.
Sky led Syd, Bridge, and Z out the command center. In the hallway was Ben tapping away a message on his cell.
"Those aren't permitted on duty. You know that," Bridge said nabbing the tiny phone.
"And all this time I thought you were the cool advisor," Ben grumbled.
"Sorry. Sky's watching," Bridge whispered back.
"Cadet Worthen, Commander Cruger has assigned us to investigate the source of today's crisis. Officer Drew and Officer Delgado will patrol with the SPD jeep and Officer Carson will be making rounds via SPD cycle. You'll be going with Officer Carson."
"No can do," Bridge objected. "Ben doesn't have his cycle ride-a-long license yet."
"I'm not even going to ask," Sky said looking to Syd and Z next.
"It's actually a good safety course I created. You see, I--"
"Syd? Z?" Sky asked.
"As much as we'd love to have Ben along, I believe Commander assigned him to be your buddy."
"Shadow, Syd. Shadow."
"Shadow, whatever. He's yours. Sorry, Ben."
"No hard feelings, Officer Drew. Officer Tate and I are beginning to become real good budd-- shadows. Real good shadows."
Sky internally cringed at the b' word and waved the young cadet along.
"See ya," Ben said departing.
"Psst," Bridge whispered.
He tossed the phone back before Sky could see.
"Behave yourself."
"Yes, sir!" Ben shouted with the SPD salute.
He hurried away to catch up with Sky. Bridge turned around to see a face lost in thought.
"Z? Everything alright?"
"Sky's been kind of uptight lately. I hope he's alright."
"I've noticed, too," Syd agreed. "He's still the cool Sky we know, but it feels like he's slipping back into his old jerk self lately."
"Anymore nightmares?" Z asked Bridge.
"He was okay yesterday, but the night before I heard him. It sounded like he was in battle against a giant chicken or some kind of poultry turned monster."
"Ha. And I thought psychic dreams were your department," Syd quipped.
"He was clucking? This is priceless," Z giggled.
"Maybe a clicking? If it was a sub-conscious vision, then we may have ourselves a problem," Bridge said rubbing his chin.
"Perhaps an attack on Earth?" Syd hypothesized. "I wouldn't be surprised if someone would try to do what Gruum failed at."
"No not that."
"What then?"
"We'd have ourselves two psychics. I wouldn't be unique anymore!"
"Bridge, my friend," Z said placing a hand on his shoulder. "They don't get anymore unique than you."
"Thanks ... I think."
Echoing painful cries were now mere whimpers. No one could see the horror the wasteland contained without some source of light. The baron plain was peppered with tiny tar pebbles. Between the crevices of these small rocks, molten lava could be seen coursing through the cracks, each path of magma trying to find a place to go. All paths led down a steep decline where a massive lava fall lit only a portion of this hell-like planet. The pool that caught the runoff was down a pit with a bottom that could not be seen.
When will my release be granted?
A gloved hand covered in soot clawed at the gravel. There had to be a God because there was no way he could survive so much pain without a miracle. But this punishment, this torture, how could God allow it for so long, even for a humanoid? The man pulled himself off the incline he had collapsed on the previous day. The scales on his naked body were no longer a lustful olive. The cobalt blue armor that was promised to protect his sensitive shell had long disintegrated.
I made the decision myself. I knew what I was getting into...
Somehow he managed to keep the copper badge clutched between his withered fingers as he crawled. The engraved letters on the half-melted I.D. plate was no longer legible, but he knew what it read. The three letters echoed in his head twenty-four seven.
SPD ... must get back to SPD... I must warn the others...
There it was, like the million other times. A portal burst open like water colors flooding a wormhole. Thanks to his relentless crawling, he was closer than ever to what could provide an escape from these hellish ruins.
At times, his body would go numb from the pain but now wasn't one of those times. His body gave and forced itself to rest.
No! I'm so close!
He could only sit there and watch his chance pass him by. He could only watch and wait for the inevitable closing of the multi-colored exit way. Not this time...
A curdling and defiant NO rang through and out the portal. Someone was coming.
Kat Manx rounded the corner of the mall-like structure of Galaxy Command's second level commons. Compared to Earth's SPD Headquarters, this place was Disney, Six Flags, and Universal combined. To say, the facility was huge, gigantic even. Kat felt tiny within these towering glass walls, but her purpose here held great significance. She was long used to taking on special unanticipated projects, but this one was massive. Kat had been recruited to be part of a task force made up of SPD doctors and scientists to help reform the Blue Centurion Police Program by upgrading both hardware and software components to the latest SPD technology.
Space Patrol Delta was expanding across the universe and was in negotiations with non-SPD militaries to bring its services to galaxies where security was in need of a major upgrade as Commander Birdie put it. The initiative had a positive response from key galaxies, namely the six that employed Blue Centurion officers to police thousands of foreign colonies. Then there were the "non-responses" to the proposal, or the turn-downs as the water cooler conversations would dictate -- the worlds and galaxies that flat out refused an alliance with SPD in favor of keeping their sovereignty. The politics of it all jaded Kat's feelings for Space Patrol Delta.
When did SPD suddenly become a business? Security for hire, for profit?
A transition this large for SPD would inevitably hit a few speed bumps along the way. The first one was a doozy and it was the talk all over Galaxy Command. In fact, Kat was headed to a briefing on the very matter.
Dr. Manx proceeded through the open steel doors leading to SPD's most prestigious board room. From the elevated glassed-in walkway, Kat could see the many officers and staff moving about like busy worker ants. The view put her role at SPD in perspective. She didn't puff herself up as someone the others couldn't function without, but it was becoming evident her expertise was recognized and valued beyond her position at Earth SPD.
Kat entered the large auditorium. It was her first time inside this historic coliseum-like board room. She quickly became intimidated. She didn't expect it to be anything this grand. Kat suddenly felt herself becoming smaller.
An usher waved to Dr. Manx and directed her to her seat.
I have my own seat? And a name plate? Goodness...
There were easily three hundred attendees present -- so many faces, so many life forms and walks of lives. The hushes of private conversations quickly died as the General Council took center stage, Commander Birdie amongst them. Kat's eyes searched the line up. She noticed immediately Doggie wasn't with them.
Everyone rose in respect for their superiors, all three hundred simultaneously giving the official SPD salute. The General Council returned the salute, giving the okay to be seated.
Birdie spoke first.
"Fellow Delta Officers, Commanders, Doctors, Scientists, and valued associates, we thank you for your prompt response to convene on very short notice. We understand the distance many of you must travel to be here and we have much gratitude for you all."
Birdie moved the mic away from his beak. Commander Silverback spoke next.
"Space Patrol Delta is a police force of progress. Unprecedented growth will no doubt have its flaws as history has demonstrated many times. Normally, and preferrably, we meet via video cast. We understand the hectic schedules that require acute adherence, but the urgency of this pressing matter requires us to meet together to address this dire issue."
The towering Commander Stone gently moved his mic close to his boulder-gray mouth.
"The Blue Centurion Reform Program is alive and well. To immediately dismiss the rumors, it will go on as planned. Our top crime scene investigators are working diligently around the clock to identify the perpetrators responsible for the disappearance of our first two SPD Centurion officers. All volunteers to receive SPD Centurion battle armor are still scheduled for installation.
"However, installations and technology upgrades of previous Centurion bots will be suspended until further notice. Personnel residing three or less galaxies from here may go home until the call is made."
That's me!
"We ask that all remaining personnel remain here until then."
A collective groan could be heard throughout the board room from almost half the attendees. Kat could only smile. She was going home.
It was rare to see Sky Tate out of his SPD uniform. From eight sharp to late evening, the leader of B-Squad was ready for anything. It was the mentality he carried from Boy Scouts to SPD -- BE PREPARED. He glanced at the clock next to his bed and resumed his search for the light blue shirt he often wears when going for his evening jog. Typically, black shorts would be his choice of running attire, but the chilly November weather permitted something warmer, his SPD track pants specifically.
Sky suddenly remembered.
I gave that shirt away ... to Jack and Ally.
It's been a year and his mind sometimes backtracks to look for a blue t-shirt to change in to. Sky figured he was tired from the day's patrol, which turned up zero leads for the mysterious illness plaguing New Tech City. He grabbed a red SPD shirt from his closet, one of many, and slid it over his naked torso. Sky looked at the clock again. 9:10 P.M. It was getting late. He had better get going.
Trekking the quiet halls of SPD, Sky reflected on the day's events. There was always something he or the others could pick up on, or at least someone who could tell them -- Piggy. The city's biggest gossip had long deserted the information business and became heavily involved with Jack and Ally's Omega Missions effort -- as their publicity agent no less. That option was gone. The case dug at his brain all day, but not as much as the bigger problem. He let the thought go and put his right thumb and index to his lips.
The distinct whistle echoed throughout the hallow halls. The sound of pattering robotic feet could be heard coming from around the corner. The team's unofficial mascot came racing forward and stopped at Sky's feet with random farm animal noises barking from its mouth. Sky never understood why his programming was set for such nonsense, but then again it was Bridge and Boom who were in charge of maintaining R.I.C.
The two headed out the front entrance of SPD Headquarters. The two guards inside the foyer acknowledged Sky with the SPD salute as the officer exited with his K-9 companion. Sky inhaled through his nostrils and looked up at the night. The skyline was dotted with tiny stars. The moon was partially hidden by a cluster of cumulus clouds and the temperature was comfortable, not at all too chilly but not warm either.
How can an evening this perfect have such an air of fear affecting its people?
City officials did not issue a curfew, but had strongly recommended citizens to remain in-doors to avoid any possible contact with anything that may spread this catastrophic illness. Sky jogged down the steps leading to the sidewalk and headed west with R.I.C. at his side. He began to recall the numerous task forces taking hundreds of samples; subway rails and banisters, cell booths, door handles, and whatever random objects hands would come in contact with. Results were still pending.
Sky rounded the corner and headed up the incline of the hilly Memorial Avenue. He tried to push everything out his head and concentrate on just jogging. This was so like Sky, to over think, to over assume responsibility. Syd told him one time in recent weeks he was the leader of the B-Squad, not Galaxy Command, after a petty argument over the volume of a song from her headset when they were sharing the rec room. The comment stuck with him since.
An old Pentecostal church was up on this street. Sky anticipated on seeing a small crew of men working on the renovations again. He never stopped for a chat, but was friendly enough to give them a wave or at least a nod to acknowledge them. Two men holding a large sign together worked with a third man to get the mostly-white board planted into the ground. Sky slowed down to read it.
"Evenin', sir!" one of the men said.
Obligated, Sky stopped.
"Good evening, gentlemen. How are you tonight?" he asked the trio.
"Doing quite alright. Do you like the new sign?"
R.I.C. ran up to the man's feet and growled as if he was going to attack.
"R.I.C.! Down boy," Sky said kneeling beside the dog.
He entered a three digit code on the number pad on the back of its neck. R.I.C. became silent and sat down obediently.
"I'm sorry about that. He probably needs a check up," Sky apologized.
"It's fine," the man assured.
"But the sign, yeah. It's definitely a lot newer looking," Sky said.
"Sure is."
Sky studied the sign some more.
"Did you guys change the name?" he asked.
"Actually, yes. Allow me to introduce myself. Pastor Timothy Vauhn," the man said extending his hand.
"Sky Tate. Pleased to meet you, Pastor Vauhn."
Pastor Vauhn smiled politely, as did the other two. He was a man just about Sky's height but rather slim and appeared to be well into his fifties. His hair was a brush of gray and almond and was neatly parted. Overall, he was a friendly looking man.
"Please, everyone calls me Tim. You're with SPD, aren't you?"
"Um, yeah. I guess the shirt and pants gave it away."
"Yes actually," Tim chuckled. "Oh, and these are my associate ministers, Dave and Peter."
They extended their hands to Sky. They shook.
"We're the new owners of the church, hence the new name," Tim explained.
"I presume Pastor Collins retired?" Sky queried.
"Yes he has. The congregation went their own separate ways after he stepped down. Were you familiar with him?"
"He, actually, I mean my family, we use to go here when I was a kid. He was the pastor then."
"I see. Well, we here at New Faith Tabernacle welcome you when we're up and running."
The trio smiled warmly hoping to engage Sky in a visit. Sky politely smiled.
"We'll see. You gentlemen have a safe evening," he said departing.
"You do the same. Good evening, Sky," Tim said waving.
Sky, now away from their property, suddenly about-faced from his jog and almost too embarrassed to do so. He returned to their courtyard and reentered the pass code on R.I.C.'s neck. The jogging mate sprung to life as its system began its reboot.
"Sorry," Sky said to the gentlemen as he led R.I.C. away.
"You stay warm tonight, Sky. It's going to get colder later on," Tim said.
"Will do, sir. Good night."
Bridge sat staring at his bowl of Alphabets Cereal as Z and Syd enjoyed their breakfast. They looked at Bridge and then at each other, exchanging bewildered looks.
"Okay, what is it now, Bridge?" Z asked him.
"I think I'm getting something," Bridge said eyeing the letter-shaped bits.
"Is it the name of the man I'm going to marry?" Syd asked.
Z scooted next to Bridge to study the cereal.
"If it is, it looks like his name is Ob-les-je-phon," Z said interpreting the milk-logged letters.
"Ooo, sounds French!" Syd said excited.
"Or a Jedi Knight," Bridge said pushing the bowl away. "Maybe I'm trying too hard."
"Just a tad," Z said patting his shoulder.
The doors of the cafeteria slid open. A freckle-faced boy with red hair came running in with Sky not too far behind.
"Hey, guys!"
"Sam, hey buddy," Z said embracing the child. "You're up rather early."
"Bridge and Syd are taking me to New Tech General to see the kid they helped save. His name is Daniel," Sam answered.
"Oh really? Well that's very thoughtful of you. How is he doing?" Z asked Bridge.
"Could be better. They have him wrapped up like a gift basket like the others. It's pretty boring not being able to go anywhere so Sam thought it'd be nice to pay him a visit."
"Very cool of you, Sam. It's that kind of heart that makes for a SPD officer," Z said touching his shoulder.
The other three shared the same smile knowing her words were more than what Sam knew.
"Ready to go?" Syd asked Sam.
"Been ready. Let's hit it."
The three excused themselves from the table and left the cafeteria. Sky turned to leave as well.
"Wait. Sky, have a seat," Z said patting the stool beside her.
"What's up?" he asked taking the seat.
"Hey, I don't mean to pry, but is everything okay?"
"Sure. Why wouldn't they be?" Sky asked.
"We were talking and we all noticed you just seemed a little wound lately. That's all. Oh, and Bridge said you were having nightmares and--"
"He said that?"
Z bit her tongue.
"Was he not suppose to?" she asked.
"That's kind of personal. I don't need him to go telling everyone," Sky said sounding angry.
"Whoa, hold on. He's just being a friend. We're all friends here and we're just concerned."
"I know and I appreciate it, but -- I have some things to work out. I'll be fine."
"Sky, you're not fine. Something's bothering you. Promise you'll talk to one of us when you're ready, okay?"
"I will if I want to, but I'll be fine. So please, don't push."
"Fine," Z said hiding her dejection. She changed subjects. "So are you bringing anyone to the anniversary dinner?"
"The dinner?" Sky asked unfamiliar.
"Hello. One year ago. Us. Gruum. A-Squad. Magnificence goes boom. Remember?"
"Oh right. That's been the last thing on my mind. I don't know if I'm going."
"What? Sky! You have to. We're guests of honor."
"We are? Cruger's orders that we be present I bet."
"No," Z shook her head. "But it'd be nice if you came. Jack will be there, too. I spoke with him last night."
"Oh. How's he doing?"
"Fine. He's been super busy. And I know -- he said he'd keep in contact. Sky, I don't even get to talk to him all that much anymore. I feel so disconnected from him now. I miss him a lot."
"I miss him, too. We all do," Sky said. "Did he ask for me at least?"
"Yes. I told him you were out jogging. You have his number. Call him back."
"I must have left three messages. I've given up."
"Jack's a little spacey about checking voice mail. We'll gang up on him at the dinner on Wednesday and talk to him about it then," Z smiled.
"Okay," Sky nodded.
The cafeteria doors slid open. Ben stood at the doorway with crossed arms.
"Hey, shadow buddy! You're late!"
Sky's eyes fluttered in annoyance as he rose up from his stool.
"Have a splendid day, Sky," Z smiled coyly.
Bridge, Syd, and Sam exited the elevator of the third floor and headed to the nurse's desk. A hefty Asian woman looked up from her seat and smiled at the visitors.
"Good morning, officers," the woman greeted. Her eyes then met with Sam's. "And your name, young man?"
"The name's Sam. We're here to see Daniel."
"Oh yes. Dana downstairs paged me just a moment ago about you. We really appreciate your visit. The kids get kind of lonely when their families are away."
"Room 312, correct?" Syd asked.
"Let me check my clipboard. ... Yes, Daniel Porter in room 312."
"Thank you, ma'am," Bridge said with a polite smile and nod.
The trio walked down the hall to room 312 and gave a knock at the ajar door.
"Come in," a voice responded.
The three entered the hospital room. The boy sitting Indian-style on his bed looked up from the gaming magazine. He instantly recognized Bridge and Syd.
"Whoa! SPD!" Daniel said ecstatically before a coughing fit stole his speech.
"Are you okay?" Sam asked coming to the bedside. His eyes were fascinated with the plastic dome between them.
"Hanging in there. What's your name?"
"Sam."
"I'm Daniel. Nurse Amy told me you were coming. You live at SPD she said."
"Yep. And so do Bridge and Syd."
"It's good to see you're well, Daniel," Syd said giving the boy a warm smile.
"Of course he's well," Bridge said taking a seat alongside Sam. "Daniel, your mom told me you've broken your leg once playing soccer and once in karate and been in over ten skateboard accidents. This kid is invincible! He can survive anything."
Daniel laughed and smiled proudly. Just then a young woman with a clipboard snuggled to her chest entered the room. Bridge looked up at the nurse and greeted her with a smile.
"OH I'm sorry. I didn't know you had company, Danny," the nurse said turning around.
"It's cool. Laura, this is Bridge and Syd. They're with SPD. And that's Sam," Daniel said giving introductions.
"Oh wow. SPD. This is, like, a total honor to meet you!" Laura said gushingly.
"Syd," SPD Pink said extending her hand.
"Bridge," SPD Blue said extending his.
"Oh wow! Bridge Carson!"
Laura absent-mindedly skipped Syd's hand and shook Bridge's.
"That's what the tag on my underwear says," he said rising from his chair.
Laura giggled, a peculiar sound it was. Syd looked away to conceal her own laugh.
"You're the psychic of the team. I've read all about you," Laura said.
Bridge appeared flattered.
"Oh yeah? Syd, I have a fan," he grinned.
"I see that," Syd said disinterested.
"Well I'm partial to blue and I talk to my psychic friend Sonya once a week so I'm totally into the spiritual and mind connection thing, you know? And she said this month I'd meet someone who could totally read me on an astronomical level and possible relations would follow."
"Well that was subtle," Syd muttered to herself. The others hadn't heard her.
"Maybe she thinks another psychic is going to steal her customer," Bridge joked.
"Oh I know! She was a total spaz. I think she's still getting over Poopa's death."
"Poopa?"
"Her dog. He was one of those wiener dogs. You know, the ones with the long bodies."
Syd almost couldn't handle it. One Bridge was enough.
"If you'll excuse me, I'm going to grab a cappi down stairs. Did you want anything, Bridge?"
He hadn't heard Syd's offer and continued talking. Syd rolled her eyes and left the room.
Sky slammed the tennis ball back across the net. Z dashed for the lime green object and slapped it over to Sky's side again. SPD Red grinned. He saw his opportunity. He ran up to the ball and directed it back to the far left corner on Z's side.
Z connected her racket with the ball and it hit once on Sky's half before bouncing out of bounds. She screamed victory and high-fived her clone.
"Nice save, cheater," Sky said catching his breath.
"I couldn't resist," Z said grabbing her water bottle.
The two took a seat on the bench.
"I was speaking with Commander this morning. Kat's coming back today," Sky said.
"Oh good. She'll be here for the anniversary dinner then," Z said.
"So I assume this is a black tie affair?"
"Yep. Syd took me shopping last weekend and picked out this really hot dress. I can't wait to show it off."
"I'm sure you'll catch some guy's attention no doubt," Sky said wiping his forehead with the bottom of his shirt.
"Aww. Was that a compliment, Sky?" Z asked him.
"I guess it was."
"I was hoping to bring a date actually."
"It's a date thing?" Sky asked.
"The invites said we could bring one. Might as well. Are you going to?"
"Um, probably not. I'll show up for the ceremony and split likely."
"Gosh, Sky. What's with you? Can you tell me please?"
Sky shook his head and got up. Z got up next, to his face.
"FINE. Sit," Sky said taking a seat again.
Z sat with her friend and leader. Sky took a moment to collect his thoughts and began.
"I've been having these reoccurring dreams. I really can't say what happens, but I just know I end up not being able to do something to stop whatever it is that attacks us, the team."
"Oh. ... And?"
"It's been making me think about my capabilities as a leader. What if I'm not cut out for the job like I thought?"
"Sky, that's crazy. Everyone knows you're a fine leader."
"That's yet to be determined. We haven't had anything major come up. We'll see then if I can perform my duties as expected."
Z put her hand on Sky's.
"Look. You're being way too hard on yourself. If and when something happens, you'll be the leader we know you can be."
"Okay..."
"I see you're not convinced. Can I suggest something to get you out of your funk?"
Sky sighed.
"What is it?"
"Let's get cleaned up. I'll take you to find a nice tux to rent, we'll have lunch, and when you see her, ask Syd to the dinner."
Sky's forehead creased.
"Syd?" he asked.
"As friends of course. She doesn't have a date either."
"Syd doesn't have a date? Are you serious? I mean she's so--"
"Pretty?"
"You can say it, Sky," Z laughed.
"She's pretty, yeah, but I just thought someone would jump at the opportunity."
"As pretty as Syd is, she's high maintenance. Most guys I know at the Academy are intimidated by her."
Sky thought over Z's offer. He eventually nodded.
"Okay. I'll get cleaned up. See you at noon?"
"Perfect."
Faint screams caught Sky's ears. He sprang up and looked around in alarm. Z heard them too and searched. She pointed to the street.
"Sky! Look!"
A car sped around the corner, oblivious to the pedestrians populating the area. People dove out of the way to avoid being run over.
"Am I seeing things? There's no driver!" Z observed.
"Never mind that. We need to stop that car before someone gets hurt. Let's go!"
Sky and Z ran out the tennis court to catch up with the run away sedan. They jumped a bench and ran across the busy avenue. Sky stuck his hand out and formed an energy field to caution the oncoming motorists. They slammed their breaks and honked their horns at the careless officers. Sky sprinted down the ally way hoping to cut the car off at the next street over.
"Z! Give me a hand!"
Z stopped running and concentrated on the tall chain link fence ahead of them. Her eyes flashed yellow as two clones appeared in front of Sky. The Zs boosted her leader up and over the fence. Sky landed perfectly and ran out onto the adjacent roadway. The sedan whipped around the corner like a bat out of hell, nearly plowing through more innocent bystanders.
"The bus stops here," Sky said extending out his arm.
He drew an imaginary circle with a bowed forearm as an ice-blue energy field materialized in front of him. The sedan, at full charge, sped toward Sky.
Z got a boost from her clones and landed in a crouched position. She sprung up and ran out to the street just in time to see the car collide with the force field.
A great explosion came next. Z clutched her head with her hands.
"Sky!"