Chapter XVIII:
[Last chapter of the "First Arc" called "The New Threat". All these titles belong to Matfix, original creator of them. All rights reserved].
Sanya was in Minna's office with the others. Only Trudie and Charlotte were left for the boys to complete their first exercise. Outside, they could be seen running around the extensive runway at HQ, which was used for the "Witches" to take off on their way to the front. There you could breathe tranquility that was interrupted by the snorting of some of those present, who slowed down and trotted to avoid falling exhausted. The dark brunette looked at Jimmy, Johnny and Edd, who seemed to be walking instead of doing as ordered, so she took a few steps forward and approached the three boys.
- Have you had enough?.- She asked, folded her arms and serious.
- No...Just...Just a little break, Miss Barkhorn.- Answered Jimmy, who was breathing deeply. She stayed in her position and it was then that he came closer.
- Oh dear, I can't take it anymore, can't we stop?.- Asked Johnny, who was a little dizzy from having used up all his physical strength in such a short time.
- I'm afraid it can't be like that.- Said the dark brown.- Listen, this is common, it will happen for a while that you will feel exhausted and you won't want to go on, but that's okay, it's part of getting used to it.- She explained and then looked at Double D, who was wiping the sweat from his forehead.- He's right, Lieutenant Barkhorn.
- He is right, Lieutenant Barkhorn.- The boy in the black cap backed him up.- Cheer up, guys, we are not here to slack off, and besides, very soon our bodies will adapt to this kind of exercise.
- But when will that happen, Double D?.- Jimmy asked the boy.
- That takes time, it won't be today or tomorrow, much less in a month. This is not like video games where your character gets experience points and from there you level up and that's it, you're already powerful.- He answered calmly and placed his hand on the albino's shoulders, who felt guilty when he remembered the intellectual's kindness and patience, especially when he was tied to that fence with his other two friends so they could throw fruit at them. For a moment, he wanted to cry but remembered Perrine's words, that he should be strong and learn from his mistakes. It would be a long road with those trainings and if he wanted to be a brave and strong man, then he had to face the problems himself.
- Very well, so be it.- Said the boy, and from there he ran back down the track.- Come on, Johnny, don't fall behind.- He encouraged the bald boy, and Double D joined them.
Trudie was pleased to see them like this. She could be cold and hard on them, but she also had her heart, like every person who inhabits the Earth, and in this one there was concern and hope. As she supervised the young men, Charlotte came up to her and was accompanied by a military man.
- You are needed in the Commander's Office. It's urgent.- The red-haired Liberion communicated to her. The other turned and nodded her head.
- All right, I'm entrusting them to you at your own risk. I entrust them to you at your own risk. If anything happens, let me know.- She replied and headed towards the meeting place.
Little by little, Trudie walked away from there. Charlotte remained in charge and checked that the exercise was being carried out. She looked at her watch, only a few minutes had passed and that was just the beginning of it all.
On the other hand, a few meters away from where the Liberion girl was, Eddy approached where Double D was running and Ed went with him. They were close to each other, a few meters away from each other and they could talk in "private". Kevin and Nazz were the ones who were ahead of them in distance, as well as Rolf, while Jimmy and Johnny, who had brought Plank with him, were a little further behind but gaining ground.
- Hey, did you see the look on the girls' faces when Sanya arrived?. It looked like they had discovered the zombies.- Said the sci-fi lover.
- Yes, that's true and that's worrying.- said Double D.- However, we have to take it easy, folks, we can't just jump in like it's a swimming pool. For now, let's wait.- He asked calmly and then turned to look back. He then motioned to those present to come even closer.
- How are you doing with your project.- Eddy whispered to his friend.
- It's only a small step forward. The results are not even official and I must continue experimenting. It may take me a while.- He answered to that question, but that was overheard by the others nearby.
- How long, Double D?.- He heard Kevin's voice, who did not seem hostile.- Can you expand on that, improve his condition?
- Well, Kevin, I wish I could give you a concrete and official answer, but I'm afraid that's not going to happen. You see, this type of research has a long history of breakthroughs. I can't create a "Serum" to be "Magic". Besides, if I give it to someone, they have to learn how to handle it, it is not a toy, but a great power and that carries with it a very important responsibility.- He spoke, now, raising the tone of his voice towards those present.
- It sounds like a big job.- Nazz emphasized.
- Yes, besides that I am concerned about several things in this project: The first point is that I can extend the duration of the effect, the second is that there is no negative reaction in your body and the third is that these exercises are in coordination with the "Magic".- He explained to the blonde every step that had to be taken in this regard.
- I see.- She understood and closed her eyes for a few seconds.- I hope this works out properly, Double D. The Cruels are still out there and will be getting ready to strike again. See if they attack Peach Creek.
- That's going to happen, sooner or later.- Kevin said.- I don't want to sound negative, but it's the truth.
- And you're right, but we can't stay quiet like this. We have to do our best to be able to help the Witches, so don't give up, if someone falls, give them a hand. Let's show our teamwork.- The boy with the cap encouraged those present, not in the role of a leader, but as someone who asked for the best for the rest.
From the window of her office, Minna watched the progress of the training. A look full of seriousness was directed to Sanya, who was with her communications equipment in hand and deposited it on a table she had there. The other "Witches" were standing there, each of them was silent, not a single word was uttered and by the time the redhead stood up, she signaled the white hair to turn on the device. Nothing more was said and with a quick flick of her fingers, the radio began to emit a series of sounds that, at first, seemed to be jamming, however, both Minna and Trudie and the others moved closer to see what was hidden by what was before their eyes.
- This is what I heard tonight.- Said Sanya, her voice tired from the daylight hours.
- Tell us how it went?.- Trudie asked the white-haired girl and she nodded, taking a seat, as she was falling asleep.
- I was touring "Sector 4-9-10".- The Eastern European girl began to tell her story and pointed to a map they had in the office.- There was nothing, not even any enemy scouts, but all of a sudden I started to receive a series of signals on my communications equipment. At first, I thought it might be a glitch or even a radio station on the Continent but it wasn't so. And to add more information to the story, I had an encounter with...- At that moment, the young woman stopped. They all remained prostrate in their seats, waiting to hear what was coming next.- I encountered a "Shadow Neuroi", it looked like a US "Predator" Drone.
- And did it attack you, did it do anything to you.- Minna asked with concern, but Sanya shook her head.
- On the contrary, it didn't do anything to me, it ran away and I gave chase.- She continued.
- You should have called us and we would have given you a hand, Sanya. That was a very dangerous thing to do.- Trudie emphasized, also worried about the move the girl had made.
- I know, but I couldn't lose it, because it's a very important clue and...and I think it's the reason why our communications suffer this kind of interference.- She said, and silence fell in the office.
- Minna stood up and together with Trudie began to search for the position where Sanya had found herself the night before.- "Sector 4-9-10".- They both moved their fingers, their eyes were fixed on the coordinates and from there, after some quick calculations, they came to a conclusion.- "It can't be...it's...it was on the coastal border between Scotland and Ireland, near "Hadrian's Wall".- They were speechless at what had just been revealed.
- That area, don't you think it might be one of the "Hives" that we were never able to find?. Sanya may have discovered that this "Drone" is responsible for the interference. If we destroy it, the aforementioned will follow.- Yoshika pointed to the map.
- It could be, it would not be strange, although we still have to know if it is not a trap of the Cruels. Remember the one they did to us recently.- Said Perrine with seriousness in her voice.
- Still, Perrine, we have to go to that position and discover the source of the interference. The fall of London is just the "Tip of the Iceberg", we can't stay here. If the "Shadow Neuroi" forces attack Ireland and Scotland it will be a massacre, many civilians have fled to those countries to escape the danger.- Those words came from Major Sakamoto and she was right about her stance to destroy that enemy once and for all.
- If it turns out to be a trap, we will fight them anyway.- Added Minna and turned to those present.- Mio, you will go with Yoshika, Trudie, Eila and Erika to that "Sector" and keep an eye out for what might happen there.
- All right.- The black-haired Japanese woman complied with the order.
- And if you ask for when, it will be today, now.- Finished the redhead, while she ended the meeting.
- We'll go get our weapons and "Striker Units" but what about the Peach Creek guys?.- Eila wanted to know, while Sanya stood up and went with her.
Minna didn't have the words to express herself, she was a "heap" of doubts. They were just starting their training and she didn't want to put them in danger, so she thought for a while until she found the right answer.
- Although Double D's help was a success and we were able to destroy that enemy over the North Sea, until that investigation is finished and with the appropriate results, I don't want to risk sending them to the front until they are ready", the redhead's words reflected concern about the consequences of going there and not having a well elaborated plan.
- If in the hypothetical case that the investigation yields great results, would you let a small group go to help us?. They will be under our protection.- Said the silver-haired woman.
- Hmmmm, that sounds a bit risky but I will think about it thoroughly. For now, we have a mission to accomplish: we will go to destroy that source of interference and see if we find any trace of the "Hives".- Concluded the redhead and ended the meeting.
Sanya left and Eila went to accompany her to the room they both shared with Double D.
Both friends left Minna's office, the Commander was arranging some papers, while the aforementioned went through the corridors they had there. Sanya walked with a calm, light step, but where she was quiet, silent. Eila, on the other hand, did not separate from the albino, something could be seen in her face. Was it a concern for someone else? Maybe. The memory of Double D during the Battle of the North Sea, just when he touched that cartridge and a "Magic Bullet" emerged, thanks to the effect of the contents that Rolf had in his barrels, gave them a very important victory over the "Shadow Neuroi", however, when the effect was exhausted and the boy fell into the sea, that moment was of extreme tension, being the silver hair the one who saved him from sinking into the depths of the sea.
- Eila.- She heard Sanya's voice, who called out to her, bringing her out of her thoughts.
- Yes?".- She asked turning to where the albino was.
- You look strange, are you all right? What's wrong?.- She asked, but the Northern European girl shook her head.
- Relax, nothing's wrong, it's just... I was thinking about something.- She said but it didn't seem to satisfy her friend.
They continued walking for a while until Sanya stopped walking, turned to where the other was and from there she threw out something that was on her mind.
- Is it because of the boy we have under our protection.- Said and that was a hard blow for the Finn. Her eyes opened like saucers, her legs remained still, "frozen" in her position and added to that, she could not articulate the words before what she had in front of her. She had to order her movements, her brain gave an order and her body began to "restart". She thought about it and from there she started to draw out her words from the deepest part of her being.
- If this were a lie, I would be telling you, but no, it's not," he took a deep breath, "You're right: that guy named Double D worries me. Already with his participation in the last fight we had against the "Shadow" and that he almost fell into the depths of the North Sea, it was something I didn't expect from him. But his determination is very strong and he wants to help us. Still, this training, which has only just begun, will take time and they need to be prepared. Look if they are taken there to fight, what will happen to them?
- I understand your concern, the others also think the same but Minna is not crazy, she knows very well what to do, but when they are ready, together we will go to put an end to this threat. Besides, the Cruels are the main target, if they attack my home or yours. The country of any of us is in danger and they already did it to London, Eila. This is just the beginning and we can't just sit idly by: Sooner or later we will have to take action against them.- Said the white hair and she understood it perfectly.
- You are right. It's true.- She understood the message.
- Don't worry, everything will be fine. You have to have confidence and faith that you will make it.- Encouraged Sanya, who began to feel tired and closed her eyes, being caught by Eila, who stroked her hair.
- I will do it, I will trust that everything will be all right.- Promised the silver-haired girl and from there she led her to the room to sleep for a while.
- What do you think about it, Minna?.- Trudie asked the redhead, who had been quiet and thoughtful for a while until she turned to her and Francesca.
- What Sanya has given us is an extremely important clue and it may be our only chance to destroy these interferences, as well as to discover where the "Hives" are hiding. Staying here, silent and with our arms crossed will not do us any good, we have to act, immediately.- Said the Commander with seriousness, standing up.
- And who will go to the front?.- Francesca asked.
- If Sanya was able to discover their position, thanks to that "Predator", it is possible that it will appear again in that area. Besides, the Kankers are ready to launch another offensive and we know very well that they are capable of anything, including a surprise bombing as they did in London. The Government and Military Forces have withdrawn to Scotland and Ireland to protect civilians. If that is the plan of those madwomen, then we have to stop them right there.- He ordered and pointed to the map on the table.- Who they will go in?. Well, that's where Sanya, Eila, Yoshika, Lynne, Charlotte, Mio and I will go.- Made that decision.- Tonight, no more, no less.
- You should rest, Minna, you've been working too hard.- Trudie advised her, seeing that she would stay there, but she shook her head.
- I'm afraid it can't be that way. I will go and I will not rest until I see all the Shadow Neuroi destroyed and the Cruels imprisoned.- She said firmly, standing up and then looking towards the Horizon.
Trudie understood that feeling the Commander carried inside her. She had already seen so much blood flow in the past, so much death and destruction in their path when the "Neuroi" attacked in 1939. The same situation was repeated with the dark brown and even more when Chris, her sister, was wounded and if anything happened to her again, she would never forgive herself again. That little speech Minna gave was true, she understood every word and its "hidden" meaning: If it was necessary to fight, she would do it too and no matter what, even if she was tired.
- It's your decision, Minna and I'm not going to stand in the way of it.- Trudie promised, as she walked out of her Office.- But be careful, okay.
- You don't have to worry, I'll be fine.- She gave her a smile, which was reflected on the dark brown's face, and from there she withdrew.
- I know you will.- She finished and closed the door.
For her part, Minna looked at her wristwatch and from there to the window behind her, which faced the outside of the HQ.
- "I hope that Edd's investigations will give us a good result for all this.- She asked so that she could change the course of the war.
The door of the room opened, Eila entered and drew the curtains to prevent the sunlight from disturbing Sanya, who was changing and then lay down on her bed, ready to sleep after having completed her night watch. The silver-haired girl knelt down and ran her hand through her friend's hair, who smiled calmly and from there left a kiss on her forehead.
- See you later, Sanya. Have a good rest.- The Finnish woman wished her.
- Eila.- Called out to her and she was at the door, ready to leave.
- Yes?.- The young woman asked.
- Don't lose faith: those guys are going to achieve a miracle with us. I give you my word.- She said and the other nodded her head.
- I know, Sanya, I know.- She said and closed the door, heading towards the outside of the headquarters to watch the training.
Charlotte was still in charge until she saw Trudie arrive. She looked down the runway and after checking her watch, the time for the exercise was up, the Peach Creek boys were exhausted, shaken. Kevin and Jimmy were sweating profusely, while Eddy was lying on the floor, looking up at the sky and trying to catch his breath after such activity. For her part, the redhead walked over to the dark brunette to talk to her about the progress of the exercise.
- They didn't stop at any time, they did very well for their first day.- She told her and noticed that Trudie was shaking her head and her face was serious.- Is something wrong? What happened during the meeting?.
- Tonight Minna, the other girls and I will leave for the area where Sanya had her encounter with the possible cause of the interference.- She said and the wind moved her hair, "You are coming with us, plus Mio, Lynne, Yoshika, Minna, Eila, Sanya and me.- He gave her that information and no more was said.
Then they both went to the track. Trudie slapped her hands and the echo spread throughout the place, attracting the attention of those present.
- Ufff, God, I've never exercised like this in my life...- Snorted Kevin, who felt his legs exhausted and couldn't move them.
- Isn't this what you were expecting?.- Asked the dark brown woman.- Yes, this is not like the American soccer training at Liberion, but the opposite. This kind of exercises will be repeated every day until you are ready to handle the Magic and face the "Shadow Neuroi".- She explained and then she stood in the center.- Now listen very well: You will take a few minutes rest and when I call you, you will start with push-ups, now that you have warmed up.- She left that warning and started timing her watch.- And you start resting...now!
- The "III Attack Front" is ready to leave from the "First Hive" as reinforcement to start the offensive against Scotland and Ireland. We have sent an advance party of ships to take over Wales, it is not much but we will need that area as an "Outpost".- May informed her sisters regarding the movement of troops.
- Perfect, do you have the time set for the attack.- Lee wanted to know about it.
- Yes, for tonight. It will be simple, those "Witches" will not stand in our way.- Marie said with a very calm voice, while they toasted to the future success of the operation.
Once they emptied their glasses, the three of them focused on their tasks as Leaders of the "Shadow Neuroi", the attack that was brewing was going to be one of the most deadly, as they aimed to wipe out all types of enemy infrastructure, as well as the British government that had escaped there to continue the defense of the Island. However, with London destroyed and devastation never seen before, as well as waves of refugees heading for safer places, the Cruels hoped to catch them all and make the biggest impact possible.
They just needed time and that was what they had on their side.
- All right, break's over!. Get up, you slackers, this isn't a party!.- Called Trudie, as she took up positions and lowered her body to start teaching them what they would do: "First you'll do three sets of push-ups and then you'll do jumping jacks!.- She left it in their hands, some sighed and snorted from exhaustion but chose not to say anything, the girl's stern look was what frightened them the most.
In formation, the Peach Creek boys began the second exercise.
- Come on, folks, no fear, okay. Remember: The drills for when we had big school games.- Kevin reminded them of that anecdote and they kept up with him.
- I don't know if my arms can handle this for long.- Jimmy said, but he thought about the words Perrine had given him: that he had to face the problems like a man, he couldn't always depend on others, so he put that aside and focused on what he had to do.
- Rolf has no problem with this, friend Jimmy, and to think that every day I used to carry huge sacks of cereal to my barn, and look how heavy they are.- Told the blue-haired stranger, who was, so to speak, a little fitter than the others due to his rural activities.
Once they had accomplished that, they moved on to the "Scissor Jumping", Trudie and Charlotte being their Instructors to carry out their work. For their part, Perrine, Francesca and Erika watched the kids with the exercise, which was much more complicated and sometimes they ended up falling to the ground and getting back up. That took another good stretch of time before they were done and moved on to activities like crunches and lifting smaller dumbbells for them.
Soon, as the hours passed, the workout ended at 12:00 PM (Noon), where Trudie ordered the activities to cease and seeing the Peach Creek boys exhausted, sweating non-stop, she approached those present.
- Rest for today. Tomorrow you will have these exercises at the same time. Now go and take a shower and then go to the dining room.- The girl congratulated them and they went to the bathrooms to wash up.
In line, dragging their legs and panting, the group was able to reach the inside of the headquarters and get into the place to take a well-deserved and refreshing shower. The first to undress was Eddy, who left his clothes in a basket that was there to be sent to be washed, besides they had prepared another batch for them to use them quietly. The others followed suit, going to bathe separately, the girls on one side and the boys on the other.
- Awwww, yes, God, this is what I needed," said Kevin, while he sunk his body in the refreshing water they had there and leaned his head against the edge.- I'll be honest with you, I've never in my life been so destroyed by the exercise and we used to do it at school, especially for the games.- He remembered and turned his gaze to those present.
- I think the same way.- Said Johnny, while he was rubbing soap on his body.
- Hey, Eds friends, please come, don't be shy.- Rolf invited them to come closer, but there was still some tension between the two groups because of what happened on "Friendship Day".
- Shall we go with them.- Ed asked. Eddy shrugged his shoulders.
- Yes, but slowly, one step at a time.- Asked the short young man and they approached. Kevin watched them with the others and then stretched out his hands over the edge.
- Well, I don't like you guys very much but... going back to the subject of that "Magic" that the girls talk so much about, do you think we can handle it?
- Don't look at me, I'm not "Harry Potter".- Eddy denied any implication and it was Double D who took the floor.
- As I explained a few hours ago, I only have a few small results that are of no importance. I will now return to my work but I announce this: In the smallest of cases in which it has been developed, even if only a part of it, I will need volunteers to test it on their bodies. I want to see if this is useful for me when I have to combine dexterity, strength and physical endurance with Magic.- Said the boy in the black cap.- Just let me know who wants to try it.
Nobody said anything, they remained in doubt before those words, so Double D returned to continue with his bath.
Meanwhile, Nazz and Sarah were in their sector, soaping and shampooing their hair, removing all traces of dust and dirt from the floor. The redhead was attentive to what was being heard from the other side, every word that came out and caught her attention was like a news item of the utmost importance that she could not avoid.
- Do you think that Double D experiment will work out?.- Ed's younger sister asked the blonde.
- I hope so, Sarah. Already with all this war, my hair is standing on end and I am a peaceful person, but this...is enough for me.- She alleged in her answer, while she passed her the bottle with that green viscous liquid for the hair.
- I know, it's just that...gosh, I never thought a girl like me would be on a battle front. I thought it only happened to older people, those who are experts in this matter, but when I saw the "Witches" who had been doing it since 1939, I froze.- Said the redhead.
- They already lived, once, the destruction caused by those "Neuroi", now it's our turn.- The blonde put the bottle on a shelf where other elements for hygiene were kept.- Sometimes I think if this is not the work of our actions.
- Why do you say that? If it was the Cruels who were responsible for all this.- Sarah reminded the other one, but she shook her head.
- But you are forgetting that we unjustly persecuted the Eds.- She emphasized, being stopped by the redhead.
- Hey, hey, I don't want to fight with you, you're my friend and all, but don't bring Jimmy into this. The one who started all this was Eddy, I understand that he...- She stopped when she saw that she was going to use that word as an insult.- I understand that neither Ed nor Double D were part of this but if things had gone the other way, then we would be in Peach Creek peacefully.
The words Sarah was saying were coming from a Neutral side, she didn't want to blame anyone for all of this but she was engrossed, deep down, with defending her albino best friend from her actions. Nazz turned and went back to his chore, letting the foam form over his head and the water do its part of the "work".
- Don't take this the wrong way.- He tried to tell the blonde.
- It's not that, but what Trudie said is true: we can't go around solving everything as if we were savages. And if one day we blamed them for something they didn't do, this was a warning, Sarah.- He turned and spoke with a serious tone.
The water slid down his face, cheeks and other parts of his body. The drops made their clattering against the surface, but she did not move. Her gaze was on Ed's younger sister, who could not articulate a single word. A person has his or her limit of patience and when it is exceeded, there is no turning back, and that blonde could no longer tolerate what she had done that day.
- Understand, Sarah, what we did was horrible and this is a clear warning that we must resolve these matters by other means. We can't take justice into our own hands as if it were nothing, because, one day, we will make the worst mistake of our lives and we will have to pay for it.- She emphasized, placed her right hand on the girl's shoulders and she took a deep breath.
- You're right, Nazz, it's...it's true," she understood that message and sank a little in the water.- I just hope I can go back home and that he's still there was the plea she made.
- You are not alone, I also ask the same and for my family, who are outside.- The blonde begged, while they continued to bathe in silence.
For her part, Minna was pensive in her office. That idea she had about, in the case that Double D's research worked, could prove the value of that on the battlefield but there was also a point in question and that was the power that each one would have. If that allowed for flight and physical resistance, but the issue mentioned above made it clear that it would have to be put under the magnifying glass. A knock at the door brought her out of her thoughts, she turned around.
- Come in.- She said, and as it opened, she could see Charlotte and Trudie enter the office.- Ah, girls, what do you have to say about the training.- She wished she knew.
- It went well, for a first day, a few hiccups, normal, but that's about it.- Charlotte reported.
- Good, good, good.- The redhead murmured.- No Shadow sightings have been reported over the North Sea yet: this may be a diversionary maneuver or they may already be attacking another country.- She informed them of the latest developments.
- I wouldn't be surprised and with communications suffering interference, we can only wait until nightfall.- Said Trudie, crossing her arms.
- For the moment we are going to concentrate on evacuations from the British Isles, those to the south are heading for Spain and France. Areas such as Galicia, Brittany and Normandy have been declared as "safe havens" for civilians and the Armed Forces.- She added.
- It only remains for us to catch up with that wretched "Predator" where Sanya saw it and from there destroy it as soon as possible. It is our only chance and we cannot lose sight of it," the dark brown pointed out, "But there is still a feeling of fury towards us for what happened and...- She could not complete the sentence, the fury against the Kankers emerged from inside her being, leading her to grit her teeth hard and lower her eyes but, at that moment, Minna grabbed her friend's hands.
- They may have caused us this emotional impact on people, but still and against all odds, we will triumph over them. They have won the battle but the war has just begun. You will see that we will give them what they deserve, Trudie. Don't lose faith.- She encouraged him and when she looked up, her eyes moist with tears, she saw that look of determination in her Commander with hair as red as fire.
She wiped her eyes with a handkerchief and from there she nodded her head, inspired by that moral support she had with the others.
- You're right, Minna: Let's do it.- Understood and went away preparing for the night to come.
After a good swim, the Peach Creek boys headed off to do other activities: Johnny went with Tablón and Yoshika for a walk, Rolf was with Lynne, chatting about their lives, families, life in the field, among other matters. Jimmy had been invited by Perrine to have lunch between the two of them outside HQ. For his part, Ed returned to the room he shared with Erika, finding the blonde sound asleep, her sheets thrown on the floor and the bed in disarray, so he had to stop himself from laughing, as it reminded him very well of the way he had his room.
- I hope you like it, Jimmy.- Perrine spoke to the albino, passing him a cup of tea she had prepared. The steam it emanated was sweet and when it entered his nostrils, the boy was delighted.
- Mmmm, chamomile, my favorite flavor. Thank you very much, Perrine.- He thanked the young woman from Gaul.
- You're welcome. By the way, I saw you training and you made a good start this day. Trudie also showed her respects.- Said the girl with glasses.
- Well, it's true, although I have all my muscles stiff and sore, but I'll be fine. This is just the beginning; but don't worry, you can trust me. I won't give up.- She gave her word and ran her hand through his hair, encouraging him to keep going.
- Well, everything is ready for tonight.- Said Mio, finding herself in the office after seeing Nazz and Kevin, who were outside on the young red-haired man's bicycle, "Let's hope that this plan works.
- And it has to, we can't let him get away. Who knows if he is also a spy for the Kankers. He may have extremely important information about the main targets.- Minna pointed to the black-haired Major.
- The others are getting ready. Today is going to be a very hectic night.- Said the redhead, who sat back in her seat and closed her eyes.
- You should rest for a while, Minna. You've been working too hard and those dark circles under your eyes are getting wider. Go get some sleep. Trudie and I will take care of this.- Mio advised her, while the Commander thought for a moment, debating whether or not to comply with the Major's request.
She clasped her hands together, her eyes and gaze remained fixed in that position, she needed to find an answer. Time began to pass, Mio was talking with Trudie about various points until they noticed that Minna stood up and rubbed her eyes with her hands.
- I'm going to go rest for a while. If anything happens, let me know, okay?.- She asked and went to the door.
- You can count on us, Minna. Go and rest.- Fuso's black hair encouraged her. Once she was out of there, they were both left in the office.
Lunch time was quiet, it passed as if nothing had happened, no inconvenience, since there was more hunger than desire to talk. The meal of the day was stew with vegetables and meat to regain strength, as well as to give them a good supply of Iron, Protein and Vitamins after a day of hard physical work. Eddy was the first to finish eating and took it to the kitchen to wash it himself. He caught the eye of Double D and Ed, who had a private conversation.
- What's wrong with Eddy?. He seems a little lost.- Said Sarah's older brother.
- I think he's starting on his way to becoming a serious person...I hope so.- Gave the black-capped boy his theory regarding the silence that surrounded him.
- I hope so and that it is nothing more. Since this morning he was very quiet.- Recalled Ed, who was eating his stew again.
- He had a problem with Trudie this morning.- Said Johnny, wiping his mouth with a napkin.- He wouldn't get out of bed and she gave him a good lecture and he's like this. I don't want to get involved, guys, but Eddy will have a lot to think about. Sooner or later the same thing is going to happen to us, we are going to have to choose our path, otherwise, we will remain "anchored" to this one for the rest of our lives.- Said the boy in the white T-shirt.
- Lieutenant Barkhorn has Sarah under her care.- Reminded Ed.- She scares me a little, she is very severe, although she has a good side: she cares about us.
- It's true, I wouldn't want to have problems with her and even more when she mentioned the dungeon, I prefer to leave it aside.- Joined Nazz in the conversation, while Sarah remained silent after hearing her brother on that point.
- Well, me with Trudie I'm in a...how should I put it. Try to get her to be a little calmer, to stop exploding out of anger.- Mentioned the redhead and from there she looked at Ed.- I've been pretty hard on you, you're my big brother, you care about me, despite the stupid things you did with your friends, but still, if something were to happen in Liberion, we have to take care of each other," said the girl, who took everyone by surprise. Nazz stopped eating and lowered her head.- She felt a little scared by what the other girl said.
- That's very good of you, Sarah. You said it yourself, you will go down a calmer path but not to the extreme and since you mentioned Liberion, I ask the same. I would not want to lose my home. Peach Creek is everything to me.- The blonde objected with concern.
- I think the same. I understand that the Kankers had us in fear, all our lives, but this is the last straw: That they were the granddaughters of a scientist who carried out this kind of madness is something that worries me a lot.- Kevin pointed out, with his arms crossed.- At home we have many things that are our memories, especially when summer comes, the local soccer championships, among other things.- He pointed and took a deep breath.- I just hope this war doesn't last long. That's all I ask.
Eddy was washing a couple of silver trays and silverware after the lunch that had taken place there. He was concentrating and thinking about what his way would be like in this "New World" he had before his eyes. This was not the one where people progressed easily, there was no "Utopia", but an attempt at global domination by those three sisters. His memories were set on Peach Creek, his family, friends, the scams...how long it had been since he had done one! but, even so, it was no longer holding his attention.
Outside, in the hallway that joined the kitchen, Francesca saw Eddy and quietly walked in.
- Surprise!.- Jumped the Italian black-haired girl.
- AHHHHH!.- Shouted the short boy and fell to the floor, causing an uproar that could be heard in the dining room.
- Hehehehehehehe.- Laughed the cause of the joke, while she helped Eddy to stand up.- Relax, there's no need to panic.
- I almost jumped out of my heart.- He said, pale as a ghost, while Francesca rolled her eyes.
- Now, now, don't worry, it's not that bad. Listen, since you're here, once you're done with the dishes, come with me, let's go for a walk around here.- Proposed Francesca.
- Okay, but...- Eddy was about to say but she stopped him.
- It's a walk with friends, don't get the wrong idea, hehehehe.- She said and after giggling, she left the place, "I'll wait for you outside.
He did not say a single word, he was astonished by what he had just heard and once he shook his head, the young man returned to his work. Later he would see what Francesca had in store for him.
Once the dishes were clean, some went to continue with their activities at the headquarters, but Double D had another direction, so he went to the room he shared with Eila and Sanya, he opened the door carefully and noticed that the albino was sleeping, the curtains were drawn and a few rays of sunlight filtered through to illuminate the place. He was about to go inside when someone placed his hand on her, he turned around and noticed that the Finnish woman was behind him.
- Don't make too much noise.- She asked in a low voice and pointed towards her friend.
- Don't worry, I'm just going to continue with my research: Microscope and take notes.- He answered calmly and she nodded.
- Okay, I'll be over here, I have some business to attend to. If you need anything, let me know...- He left that warning, while he was leaving, but the boy gathered his courage and went to the girl's position.
- Wait, Eila.- He stopped her and she turned around.- Look, with everything that's going on and everything, I promise you that there will never again be inconveniences like what happened in the North Sea.
- What are you talking about?. Double D, you are my "Protected One", Eila and I are your "Guardians" and we would never let anything bad happen to you.- The girl pointed out with a worried tone.
- It's just that...when Sanya chose me to be under her care and you joined, you sounded kind of angry.- She remembered and looked down at that scene.
She opened her eyes and remembered that moment, she looked as if she was jealous, so she pursed her lips and from there she found the answer she was looking for.
- Maybe I sounded like a jealous person, but it's just that, at first, I didn't trust you, I was afraid that something would happen to my friend. She and I are very close, but I see that you are a very smart and kind boy.- The silver-haired girl pointed out.- Even though this is a start, it makes me feel good that you are in our care. We will not let anything happen to you or to the world.- She swore, and at those words, the young man lifted his head, feeling relieved of the heavy emotional burden that was weighing him down.
- Thank you. I thank you very much, Eila.- He said and she responded with a hug.
- Don't worry, everything will be fine. Today you gave a very good image for Trudie and the others, but remember that no one becomes strong overnight. You have a long way to go, especially for us.- Said the young woman.- Sanya seems to have found the cause of the interference in this area. It is over the Scottish and Irish Coasts. If we can stop it tonight, then we will have discovered the "Hives" that the Kankers mentioned so much. That's why Minna, Sanya, Yoshika, Lynne, Trudie, Mio, Charlotte and I will go to stop him...I just hope we get lucky.- He told this extremely important information to his "Protégé".
He noticed a tone of concern in his "Guardian's" voice, he feared that something was not going quite right. He could feel that her alertness before this future confrontation was increasing, so the boy looked her in the eyes and encouraged her.
- I know that they will be able to find the cause of this mess, however, we also have to do our best to fight alongside them. You never know when the Crueles will attack.- The intellectual pointed out cautiously.
- You're right, you're right.- She backed him up and just saw that Perrine was coming towards her.
- Good afternoon, Edd.- Greeted the girl from Gaul politely to the young man and from there to Eila.- You are needed in Minna's office, she has already woken up.- She informed him and after giving a "Yes" with her head, they both left for there.
- We'll talk more later, Double D. I promise. Take care of yourself.- Finished the silver-haired girl and they disappeared down the hall, leaving the young man with the black cap alone and from there he turned to the room to the south.
He went in there and took a seat. He made sure that Sanya did not wake up, so he avoided making as much noise as possible. He took his chair, deposited it quietly near the desk and from there went to the microscope to look at the samples he had. Under the magnifying glass, the young man could notice that Rolf's liquid did not emit any "signal", he thought that it would need a new injection and went for more content until he noticed a strange luminescence that was faint but caught his attention to the maximum.
- And this?.- He wanted to know and from there he turned his gaze to the microscope: "Fantastic, I can't believe it. And I was almost about to start from scratch, hehehe, but I see that it is a small success.- He deduced and began to take notes, analyzing each part of the drops and the strange light they emitted, which, for a few moments, was golden. At a given moment, the young man took a syringe and poured some new drops over the previous ones. These, upon contact, increased their glow a little more.
It seemed like a dream, it was a small step to something bigger that would come, if everything went, in the Future. He felt like the Curie couple or Albert Einstein with the "Theory of Relativity", although that was far removed from the scientific context. His right hand did not stop writing on the research notebook next to him, it could even be seen red from the effort and pressure he was exerting, writing down even the tiniest, smallest and most unimportant details. After that work, he took a glass vial and carefully kept the drops containing "Magic" inside.
Once he finished with that risky work, he noticed that the effect lasted inside that object.
- I just need to test it, now, on some volunteers, but on whom?.- He said confidently and then thought of those who could receive it, and most importantly, how long it lasts in the human body, resistance and that it does not reject it.
He stayed there, still in his chair, with his right hand on his chin, but seeing that he did not have much time, hypothetically speaking, he went to where the other members were to offer them the opportunity to collaborate in a "Field Test".
During those moments of the afternoon, where everyone was with their "Guardians", they decided to "forget", even if only for a few hours, about the war that was upon them. They also deserved a little rest, to recover their strength. The Human Being is not a machine, he needs his time, especially in the most critical moments that Humanity has ever had to experience.
Double D, for his part, had been talking to the few who were still there, since Eddy and Jimmy remained outside with Francesca and Perrine, while Erika was with Ed and the others were busy with a couple of issues, so he had no volunteers to test those first results. He couldn't give up, so he made a decision, knowing full well that there could be consequences. He looked at the contents, it was glowing a little brighter, so he proceeded to set the timer on his watch and see how long the effect lasted.
Then the young man in the black cap drank the liquid and waited for it to work. To do so, he went to where the "Witches" were, who were preparing to leave for the battle front between Scotland and Ireland.
The night was coming, little by little over Brittania, the Skies began to change their color and to be covered with bright Stars, the Moon and a mantle of Darkness where only the distant lights could be appreciated. of them could be seen. Sanya, on the other hand, was already awake and ready to go, so she left her room, heading towards where the rest of the team was waiting for her.
Minna and Trudie saw that the girls assigned to the mission were already assembled and the last to arrive was Sanya, standing outside the HQ, in the hangar assigned for takeoff.
- All right, the time has come to go fight this threat hanging over Brittania. We will head for these coordinates you see here on the map," said the red-haired Commander, "and ambush the enemy forces of the Cruels before they can cross into Scotland and Ireland. I warn you that this is not going to be an easy task, so keep your eyes peeled.
No one said anything, the team members nodded in agreement. Just then, from the hangar entrance door, Eila and Sanya could see Double D entering the hangar.
- Wait, please.- Asked the young man, entering the place and catching his breath.- I want to come with you.
- Double D?.- Minna was surprised but soon adopted a gesture of concern.- No, no, you can't come with us, after what happened to you before on the North Sea, besides this is very different from what happened before. You must stay here and...
- No, I'm sorry, Commander, but I can't let go of this opportunity.- He said and without giving much emphasis, extracted the glass vial from the right pocket of his pants.- I decided to make a field test with the new advances, small but with the faith that this will work. Besides, I have it all timed, it's barely been an hour and I haven't felt weakened or anything. No other adverse effects either.
- But...- The redhead was about to say, however it was Trudie who stopped her, as Eila stepped forward.
- As your "Guardian"; I take full responsibility during the operation. You don't have to worry, Minna.- The Finnish woman said calmly and Sanya nodded her head, implying that she would also take care of the intellectual boy.
She took a deep breath and from there she had to acknowledge the determination of the two friends.
- Okay, but remember, Double D, this is a very different battle than the one in the North Sea. We may even be outnumbered.- He said, but the young man felt no fear at that moment.
- I am 100% sure of that and of the dangers that lie ahead, my Commander. But even so, I cannot let this opportunity pass, otherwise, we will have to wait longer and we will not know until when the next one will happen. That's not good, it can play against us.- The boy maintained seriously, while looking at his chronometer, "20 minutes, I've barely been there and I still haven't felt anything, not even Magic.- He said to himself, since time was the greatest enemy he had before him.
Just at that moment, alarms began to sound throughout the airbase, the "Witches" took up their firearms and the "Striker Units". The personnel on the ground were in position and checking that everything was in order for takeoff. One of them gave the go-ahead to Minna, who ordered them to get ready. Double D went to Eila, who held out her hand and Sanya did the same.
- Remember: Stay close to us. This is going to be a hornet's nest.- She gave her advice, while giving the signal for them to take off.
- Now, "Witches", attack!.- Minna ordered and went outside, took off with her "Striker Unit" and ascended towards the Night Skies.
The others followed the same procedure: Mio, Lynne, Yoshika, Charlotte, Eila, Sanya, Double D and Trudie were the next to take off. The intellectual boy watched as the two girls were approaching towards the Firmament, the first meters that separated them from the ground and his strong grip on the hands of both of them, who had no problem but with the condition that he would be by their side at all times. For his part, the intellectual ad to emerge, at some point, from deep inside his organism, even if it was only for a short period of time.
- How's it going, Double D?.- Trudie approached the boy but he shook his head. There was not presence of Magic inside him. He looked at his watch: 40 minutes and still no sign. That was strange but he could not let it go, it h
He looked at his watch: 40 minutes and still no sign. That was strange but he could not let it go, it had to emerge, at some point, from deep inside his organism, even if it was only for a short period of time.
- How's it going, Double D?.- Trudie approached the boy but he shook his head.
- Nothing, I still don't feel any effect inside me. Be patient, this is a field test, it can fail or not. In short, it is a "roulette".- Informed the intellectual, while they were soaring even higher, under the light of the Moon and the Stars that shone like the pearls of a Crown.
The group chosen for the combat was flying in formation, keeping close to Sanya, who had her communications equipment with her, looking for the signal of that opponent, one that could be in any position, hidden, like a hunter waiting for the prey to fall into his claws.
("Personal Jesus", "Depeche Mode")
- Any sign, Sanya?.- Minna asked the girl on the radio.
- Nothing.- She answered calmly, as they continued scanning the area.
A short time later, those present arrived at the place where the white hair had had the encounter with the "Predator". They were at the coordinates marked on the map, Minna and Trudie confirmed the location but the only thing ahead of them was the vast Firmament and the lands that stretched as far as the eye could see. Yoshika and Lynne stood on alert along with the others, Double D looked for any hint of enemy presence with their eyes, even if it was small, minuscule and so they could not let their guard down. They knew very well that they were in an extremely "valuable" position, in the strategic sense for the Cruels and their plans of world conquest.
- Attention, eyes wide open.- Asked Mio to those present, while she unsheathed her katana.
- This is strange.- Said Lynne seriously.- There is no trace of the enemy, what if they moved?. Maybe they discovered our plan.
- Maybe so. But even so, the danger of them attacking Scotland and Ireland is still latent. We cannot leave this position as if nothing happened.- Said Trudie, when suddenly Sanya's team began to emit a series of signals that attracted the attention of those present.
- He's here.- Said the white-haired woman, and they were removing the safety catches from their weapons.
The sound coming from their radio was the same as the one they heard in Minna's office that morning. It seemed far away, that it was getting closer until a mysterious lightning bolt was heading towards them. Mio let out a shout of evasion and they dodged it just inches away from being hit by the impact; but still, they were separated into two groups: Yoshika, Lynne, Mio and Charlotte, while on the other side were Eila, Sanya, Minna, Trudie and Double D. The lightning continued on its journey and hit the ground, raising a huge column of dust and smoke ranging from gray to black, lingering in the air for quite a while next to the fire.
- Did anyone see it?!.- Asked Charlotte, looking for the person responsible for the attack.- It could be an advance party, be careful!
Sanya's radio continued to emit signals and they seemed to be close. She raised her head and pointed to the northeast of their position.
- There it is and...- Minna said and was left speechless when she saw what the white hair had seen before.
- It's the "Predator" I told you about.- Confirmed the Eastern European girl and loaded her gun. She aimed and fired a round of missiles shot out from the "Fliegerhammer". These streaked across the skies and through the clouds but the "Predator" was faster and dodged them, leading them to collide with each other.
- No way," Trudie was surprised.- They are not like the Neuroi, these are much smarter. Good move, Kankers, but this is just the beginning.- She said and then ordered them to fire their weapons at the target.
The enemy dodged the shrapnel, there seemed to be no way to bring him down. It seemed indestructible, even Sanya's missiles failed to reach it. It ascended into the heavens, disappearing from the girls' "radar" and was never heard from again.
- Quickly, all in formation, we'll hunt him down!.- Ordered Mio and they began the chase.
- Hehehehe, come on, Witches, that's just what we want from you.- Said May, who was ready to start bombing those countries belonging to the United Kingdom.
- Wait.- Sanya asked and she remained silent as she began to pick up new signals on her equipment.- Here it comes.- She pointed to the north and just as she predicted, the "Predator" attacked them with indescribable force.
In the midst of the confusion, the opponent crashed into Eila and the white hair, causing Double D to break free from the hands of both and fall into the void.
- NO! NO!.- Shouted the Finnish woman and started a rescue flight to reach him.
The boy, for his part, could not get over his astonishment: Magic had no effect. His research had been in vain. Everything was lost, there was no way to remedy things, it seemed as if the whole world was freezing and the only thing he could see, apart from his fall, was the despair in Eila, whose tears flowed from her eyes, because of the despair that impregnated her body and soul. He wanted to reach for her hand but it proved impossible...so he prepared to accept his fate.
They say that miracles arise in the most complicated moments of human life. History has recorded several of these, such as the case of the famous "Storm of Santa Rosa", where the nuns of that Convent, located in Lima, Capital of Peru, prayed before the Patron Saint of the place to protect them from an assault by Corsairs, pirates who were at the service of an enemy nation, being, in this case, Holland. And so it happened, the skies clouded over and a fierce storm forced the enemies to divert their route, call off the attack and get out of there. A most interesting fact. But in a World where Science and Technology has left God in a more spiritual role, in second place, it was something impossible to happen. Or was it?
The "Predator" had Eila and Double D in his sights, suddenly ignoring the "Witches", who went after him. But something happened: a resounding change that tipped the balance in his favor and began with a golden glow that enveloped Double D, stopping the speed of his fall and causing him to float in the air in front of Eila, who grabbed him tightly and hugged him before the astonished look of the girls.
- Unbelievable...- Trudie was surprised.- It worked...the research that Double D has done is a resounding success.
The young man shook his head, because all the adrenaline that had enveloped him had prevented him from seeing that what the dark brown-haired Lieutenant was saying was true. He was floating in the air, just like them, flying. He stretched out his arms, touched his face, it could have been a dream but it was not, on the contrary, he was in reality. He looked at his stopwatch. Only an hour had passed...an hour, maybe that was the cause of the delay, the time or maybe not. There would be time to carry out more investigations, clarify doubts and close possible open fronts.
On the other hand, the "Predator" remained still before that change in the plot; even so, it was ready to attack them but they evaded it once and unloaded all their rifles against the armor it had to destroy it. Double D was flying next to the "Witches", analyzing each part of the enemy, in search of his "Core" when he saw that the Central part that the invader possessed was destroyed and Mio gave a downward blow that impacted against the rival and destroyed him completely.
- Back!.- Ordered Minna and they could see how the "Predator" exploded through the air and fell to the ground, turned into incandescent debris.
- Huh?! How...?!.- Lee wanted to know when he saw that his "Agent" had been destroyed.- Quick, tell May to turn back immediately, we have to protect the "First Hive"!.- She ordered Marie, who said nothing and ran out to warn the blonde.
- Girls, look, communications are back to normal!.- Reported Sanya, who was in contact with the "Operations Room", which reported the good news.
- Excellent.- Said Trudie.- Do we have confirmation from the "Hives"?.- Asked and the white-haired woman nodded her head.
- North.- She pointed to the confirmation and they set a course for the site.
None of the three sisters could believe what they were seeing before their eyes: The "Witches" had reversed the situation and tipped the balance in their favor. May received the order for the advance party to turn around and go to protect the "First Hive", which was in danger of being destroyed.
Arriving in the North of Scotland, almost to the North Sea and close to the Irish coast, they could see a huge "fortress", if the word could be 100% accurate in its meaning. That monstrosity was huge, dark and extremely dangerous, as the defenses were activated and hundreds of "Shadow Neuroi" began to emerge to protect the position. Trudie, Mio and Minna were the first to attack, while Double D was testing his power, especially creating a shield together with Yoshika and Lynne to stop the attacks of the enemy weapons.
- We have to get to the "Core" and destroy it! Only then will this area be safe!.- Said the Sergeant, while she saw one "Shadow" after another fall into the depths of the North Sea.
- I'll cover them, you destroy that place!.- Double D accepted the task.
With nothing more to say, the "Witches" left the defense position and moved on to the assault.
In the middle of the fire between both forces, the girls together with the boy in the black cap were able to infiltrate and after confronting the defenders of the place, they reached the "Nucleus". That was impressive, a "marvel" of Science but used for evil, a goal for which it served and was the conquest of the World, so the "Witches" could not allow such a creation to roam the World.
- Very well, let's destroy this "Hive" at once.- Asked Lynne and together they managed to pierce the protection of the structure, unleashing a series of internal explosions.
- No, it can't be!. The "First Hive" has suffered severe damage... we're going to lose it!.
In the middle of the escape, Double D was able to use again those "Golden Bullets" that destroyed the armor of the "Shadow Neuroi", being a great help in the fight against them and while the fortification exploded internally, the "Witches" and he were able to escape just in time, before the "First Hive" was completely destroyed, causing a great explosion that was felt for several kilometers and when they opened their eyes, after that reflection of light, they could see how it was heading towards the North Sea, wrapped in fire and smoke. Great columns of that "mantle" that went from gray to black until, all at once, what was the base for the enemies, in the blink of an eye disappeared forever in the depths of those waters.
The young man from Peach Creek remained, with his eyes fixed on that place, stunned, perplexed, speechless. That fight had been the beginning of what was to come for him and his friends. He looked at his hands, they trembled in the face of what he had just witnessed. His mouth was dry and his heart was pounding, crashing against his ribcage, almost out of control until he closed his eyes and was grabbed by Eila and Sanya.
- Did I...did I do well?.- He asked, his voice tired in front of the girls.
- Rather, it was excellent, Double D.- Minna complimented him.- Your research has allowed us to destroy the source of the interference and one of its "Hives". We are extremely grateful to you for lending us a hand in this battle.
- There is no need, My Commander.- He replied, with a small smile and after saying that, the Magic he had with him stopped, leaving him extremely exhausted. Yoshika looked at the chronometer that the boy had with him.
- Are you all right?.- Asked Mio.
- Don't worry, Sakamoto-san: He is fine, he just fainted.- Informed the Sergeant of the group.- His chronometer stopped and marked 4 hours.- She informed those present.
- That will be useful for her work and so on.- Charlotte said and yawned from exhaustion.- We'd better get back to the base, I'm dead tired.
Without saying anything else and with Double D leaning against Sanya's back and protected by Eila so that she wouldn't fall, the "Witches" started the return to the HQ to rest after an extremely important battle during that night/morning; but with a war that was still latent in the whole World and that they should continue fighting until they defeated the Cruels in the fronts they had unleashed.
Eddy?.- The short young man heard a voice and noticed that Francesca was awake.
- I'm sorry, I couldn't sleep: Double D is out there and I'm worried that something has happened to him.- He apologized but she smiled calmly and took his hand.
- Don't worry, I know how that feels, but don't worry, he's in good hand.- The young woman reassured him, pushing those fears away.
Soon, the headquarters began to be drawn in the distance, appearing in front of them, under a serene, calm and clear night. A night where they had achieved a victory in the midst of so much destruction, death and desire for conquest on the part of those sisters. They had barely managed to destroy one of their "Hives" but that was only the beginning. Now they would have to be extremely attentive and prepared, since things were going to get more complicated from now on, but as long as they continued fighting against them and training for the Peach Creek boys, the hopes of a promising future would grow with the passing of time.
End of "Arc I: The New Threat."
[Friends, I can't tell you how sorry I am, from the bottom of my heart, that it took me so long to update this last chapter but there was a lot of business beforehand that I had to attend to last week, but that doesn't matter.
Well, as you can see here, this "Arc I" ended (there are 7 in total, discounting this one, now there will be 6), but not the story. No, no, no, no, not at all, this is just a beginning but I'm going to let it rest for a few days, since I want to move forward with my other fics I have in Wattpad, but I estimate that by December 8 (provisional date), I'll be writing the new arc.
I want to thank Matfix, Franco El Maestro Escudero, eltíorob95 and the followers of Fanfiction and Wattpad for following this story. I'll be translating it into English soon, don't worry, but I can't give you an official date for it.
I'll be seeing you, friends. Take care, have a good start of the day Sunday from me.
Happy National Sovereignty Defense Day!
Coming soon: "Arc II: The Battle for Africa".
See you in December with this new arc, Comrades.
