Chapter 45: A Twisted Fate

Disclaimer: I do not own Alien/Predator series or any characters and may not follow all customs and cultures found in Alien/Predator movies.

The light shines through the cracks of the blinds. The evening sun had come but it felt like time went by so fast. But it can be when you're telling a tale to those who were curious enough to listen.

"Wow! That's a great story."

The voice of a small girl with a brown braid echoed in my ears. My hearing had become dull over time but enough that I could piece together what she's saying. It wasn't hard to hear the two boys' opinions and their faces full of boredom said it all.

"Do we have to hear this story again?"

The girl turned her head behind fast, almost like a scene with a ghost doll in some movie. "How can you say that? It's awesome!"

"It's just a story. You don't know if it's true. Aliens, hunters, and a war . . . That's the makings of a storyteller like Cinderella or Snow White." One of the boys turned to me. "Do you really think this is real?"

I smiled softly. "Of course. I was there, fighting with warriors and brave people. Whether or not you believe it, the lesson is that the most incredible bonds can be made, even between different species. There's a lot we don't know out there but at least we can go there with open eyes."

"See?" The girl jumped to her feet from the floor. "It's true. I know it is. Right, Grandpa?"

I nodded. "Of course."

The girl jumped excitedly, running to sit on the edge of the hospital bed. As much as I loved the contact, my side ached with pain. But my big concern was the small object hidden in my gown.

"What is that?"

The girl reached to my side and my eyes followed. When I saw the glint of metal poking out, I closed my hand on it. I moved it further inside until I made sure it was secured. The girl pulled back in confusion. "What are you hiding?"

I spoke nonchalant, showing no emotion other than happiness in the form of a smile. "It's something that I was given a very long time."

"From your friend in the story?"

I nodded. "Yes. But it wasn't easy. It had to be sneaked behind everyone's backs. But I can guess it was for a good reason."

"Wow"

Her eyes widened, full of wonder and joy. The two boys rolled their eyes. They were still young but would learn eventually. I know they will.

A nurse suddenly comes through the door with a young woman. "Alright. Visiting hours is all over."

The woman clapped her hands. "Come on, children. It's time to go home."

"Coming, Mother!"

The girl pulled away for a second but returned to me, lowering her head to kiss my forehead. It was warm and soft. It's . . . soothing. She pulled back and smiled like the sun. "See ya later, Grandpa Rory."

"See you later, Amelia."

She ran towards her mother at the door when the boys came as well. They hugged me one at a time, saying the same thing as Amelia. I could feel each of their love pouring into me, renewing the small bit of strength I had left. I must be lucky.

"Let's go, boys." They ran to their mother as she called them. "Wait for me outside. I have to speak with your great grandfather for a moment."

"Yes, Mother."

The kids left and the nurse waited at the door as she came over to my side. I held my weak hands to embrace her. My granddaughter . . . I inhaled her sweet scent as she kissed my cheeks. "Are you sure you're going to be alright?"

I knew what she meant. I didn't give her an answer but only gave her words. It was all I could do. "I'll be alright. Go and be with your family."

"You're my family." Her voice grew shakily.

"You know what I meant. Go be with them, Cheryl."

It took a moment before she pulled away with small tears flowing over her cheek. I merely smiled as she wiped her tears. I know, sweetheart. I know . . .

"I love you, Grandpa."

"I love you too."

With that, Cheryl left the room and the nurse did her usual routine, making sure I was comfortable and checking the heart monitors. She was gone in a matter of minutes, leaving me alone for me to go over my thoughts. Hearing my story rewards in my head the way I said it to my great-grandchildren . . . it did seem like a wide tale but the feelings it brought made it sure to me that they were real.

I laid on the hospital bed, feeling my bones ache from every slightest movement. Even leaning my head forward was too much. It's hard to imagine that these tasks were quite simple in my youth. I turned my head to the side slowly, glancing at my fingers that were holding the special item I pulled out from my gown.

It was a small knife that an old friend gave me. I had to sneak into the hospital without the nurses finding out with some help. It had been such a long time since I last saw her. I wasn't sure if she was dead or not but my heart told me she was out there. The knife was the only thing to remind me of the times we spent together and fought side by side. The blade was the most impressive. The written language of the Yautja covered every bit of its surface, detailed with such skill.

It was easy to know what they meant. There were words like honor, pride, strength, and loyalty but a single one stood out above all others. Carved boldly in the middle of the blade was the word balance. I treasured it very much as I pulled it tightly to my chest, keeping it close to my heart. It gave me such unbelievable strength, making me feel young again.

But then, I felt a presence other than my own in the room. I didn't bother to look and see who it was. There was no point anyway since they were hidden insight . . . and I already knew who it was. That familiar scent was enough for me.

I heard slow footsteps from the side of the room so I forced through the ache and pain in my neck so I could turn my head and see. There was nothing in sight but I looked closer and saw a cloaked silhouette of a person. I smiled softly as my hoarse voice called out.

"I knew . . . you would come."

I heard beeping, watching as the cloak disintegrated to reveal a female warrior of high status. The overall design was about the same as I last remembered with added new features like more silver lines decorating her chest armor. I looked up towards her face, first seeing her dreadlocks falling over her shoulders like a curtain. When I finally saw her face, the familiar blue eyes drew me in. Despite the many years of being apart, they hadn't changed one bit. The color was bright as the ocean, showing much life in them.

My smile grew bigger and she responded in the same way. Her lips didn't hesitate to show a big smile but I couldn't help but sensed it was also bittersweet. Still, it was joyous to see her again. She opens her mouth and her sweet voice fills the room.

"It's good to see you again . . . Brother."

Her voice called to me. Anya . . .

She walked closer to me. It took a moment for my weary eyes to see the fine details. Her brown hair was still bright but some areas were starting to dull. Her muscles were bulging from her arms and thighs. But I didn't quite understand the metal shield over her belly. Either way, she was more impressive than before. She's grown.

She sat softly on the edge of the bed, careful where she was close to my body. "How are you faring?"

"Well . . . not as young as I used to be. But doing well for the most part." I paused, licking my lips. "Where have you've been all this time?"

Anya lowered her gaze, almost ashamed.

"I haven't seen you in a hundred years. I thought you would come to visit more often."

Anya didn't move for a moment. She lifted her blue eyes filled with sorrow. "A lot . . . had to be done. Reforming an entire planet wasn't easy with the work of hunting Bad Bloods. You know I would have come if I had time—"

I chuckled. "Don't worry about it. I know what you mean."

"To be honest, I thought I was too late."

"Not yet. I'll have to thank you for that."

It was apparent after a few decades that I noticed my body wasn't aging as fast as everyone else. I remained young while my friends and family grew older. I still had my connections with CHPS so I went in for testing. Only a few of my family knew of the organization . . . and for good reasons to protect them. It was concluded that the blood she shared with me when I was dying had extended my life considerably. I'm roughly a hundred and thirty years old . . . much longer than any human being ever lived. But I knew it wouldn't last forever. "I've waited for you."

Anya sighed. "I know." She reached to grab my hand. How different they were . . . Wrinkles and fake spots covered my skin while hers remained flawless. Expected for a hybrid to live like a Yautja.

"By the way . . . Where is Lar'ja? I thought he would be with you since he's your personal guard."

Her smile came back. She turned around and nudged her head in that direction. "It's okay to come out. No oomans are around."

Like with her, Lar'ja materialized from the corner of the room. It seems like time hasn't changed him at all. His physical appearance and armor were still the same. Only the feeling of maturity had though. He had more . . . patience. That's all I could think of. He takes off his mask and his familiar face emerges with a faint smile.

He bows. "It's good to see you again, Rory."

"Same here, Lar'ja. I expected you would be close."

"She insisted that we should meet you. To be honest, I was feeling the same thing."

I chuckled . . . a little harder than I anticipated. My throat turned bone dry, causing a scratching sensation where my voice box is. It sucked because it felt like needles in my lungs. I coughed harshly and Anya, full of concern, pressed a hand in my chest and another at my neck. "Are you alright?"

After a moment, the pain slowly died down but it left me exhausted. I was exerting precious energy that was on borrowed time. It won't be long now.

"Rory, take it easy. You should rest."

"I'm used to this. I've been an old man longer than anyone." I didn't like the sour look she gave, more so with Lar'ja's eyes at me. It's a hard fact. Sorry . . . Anya.

"I see that you still have it."

She lowered her gaze and pointed at the knife in my hands. She smiled. "I thought hospitals restricted weapons."

I huffed. "I snuck it in here . . . like you did back then when we said our goodbyes."

I remembered vividly that exchange when I left Yautja Prime. Being as old as I am, specific moments etched into your brain that you could never forget. When we hugged, Anya had snuck the knife between our bodies and into my belt, carefully hiding it from view. I didn't understand why but I received such a gift without hesitation. She spoke softly in my ear at that moment.

It's our secret . . .

I pulled the knife, holding it for us to see. "But at least I had something to remind myself of the times we've spent together. You . . . Lar'ja . . . and I. What has happened while I was gone?"

Anya chuckled. "A lot had happened."

Lar'ja grumbled softly. "You don't say."

After that, we talked about the events that had transpired over decades, or rather a few seasons in Anya's eyes. They talked about their progress on hunting the Bad Bloods and how they rebuilt all the structures that were destroyed. She told of the new Council with Za'hir and An'tar as leaders. From what I've heard, she was having more success than ever. She even told me that Sa'iye is taking motherhood well with their son H'imi-de. I talked about myself and how I left the CHPS to my eldest son and his family if he wished. I wanted to keep the rest of my family out of it with all the danger it presented. She didn't quite see eye-to-eye on that opinion but she didn't protest. She must think that I might be crazy.

"Well . . . It sounds like you lived a full life. Having a big family and living well. You did well." She patted my hand gently. It was nice to feel her warmth over my skin. It gave some renewed strength.

"Speaking of which . . ." I looked down at her stomach, still noticing that small bump. "Did you—"

I stopped when I saw something poking behind Lar'ja. I swore I heard a soft gasp followed by small whispers. I tightened my lips in curiosity. Anya saw this and turned around, seeing Lar'ja trying to move his hand around to reach for something behind.

"Who's hiding?"

Anya glanced at me for a moment before she smiled, looking back. "Come on out. There's nothing to be afraid of."

Nothing happened but I knew I heard a whimper. Sounds like there's more than one. They were calls of resistance but it wasn't long before Lar'ja moved to the side and reached around. "Go to your Mother. It's alright."

Mother?

He vibrates his mandibles in a purr, almost like a lullaby. It wasn't long before I saw three, small beings popping from Lar'ja's side. One stayed behind with him while the two came to Anya. She picked them up and placed them on her lap, right in front of me. Children? One was male and the other, a female. Are these Anya's and Lar'ja's?

I expected that they would appear more like Lar'ja but they were opposite. They appeared as human children but wearing leather clothes like an Unblooded Yautja. They have tanned skin like their mother except for their hair and eyes. The male child had dark hair, almost similar black like Lar'ja's dreadlocks, with deep blue eyes like Anya. The female was the opposite, having brown hair with golden eyes that pierced into me. I would have been shaken if the child wasn't nervous as it is. They clung to their mother, somewhat hiding their faces. I smiled as much as I could to ease their worry. "Hello, there."

The children shivered back, cautious, and keeping their eyes on me. Anya chuckled and pulled them forward. "It's their first time being here. This is X'aiya and Du'man-de. Say hello to your uncle."

"Hello."

It was barely a whisper and I giggled. They jumped a little bit after a few moments, they relaxed. Sensing that I was no threat, they moved from the safety of their mother and crept onto the bed. The female was the braver of the two and touched me gently on the hand. It was soft and warm. I smiled again and this time, X'aiya smiled too. "He's a funny ooman. Isn't he, Mother?"

So they can speak ooman too? Figures.

Anya nodded. "He is . . . but still family."

The male, Du'man-de, followed suit. The next thing I knew, they pulled and poked at me softly. I didn't mind it at all. I had experience with my children and grandchildren, even helping my great-grandchildren when I still had the strength to keep up.

"He's so squishy. Like you, Mother." Du'man-de pointed at me.

"But he's wrinkly too. Dry like a barren lake."

X'aiya started to pull on the flaps of my skin. I was fine until she yanked a bit harder on my arm. I flinched and let out a gasp that was a little louder than I wouldn't have liked. In an instant, Lar'ja had Du'man-de while Anya took X'aiya. "Sweetheart. What did I tell you about being gentle? They aren't like the pups back home."

"I . . ."

Out of nowhere, X'aiya gave a gigantic sneeze. What caught me off guard was that the female changes dramatically. The ooman appearance she had melted, revealing a Yautja pup with the same coloring as Anya's other form. Her mandibles flickered in the aftershock of the sneeze.

"Sorry, Mother. I tried to hold it in."

"It's alright. But don't yank on Uncle Rory. Okay?"

X'aiya nodded and Anya placed her on the floor to be reunited with her siblings and her father. Lar'ja growled, a small warning not to do that again. It was discipline and the children knew very well.

"That was . . . unexpected. I mean . . . I should have known better that they could do that too."

Anya smiled. "Sorry about that. They can change like I can and they're still learning. But it's expected when dealing with trouble-making twins."

"Twins?"

"Yup. Olgoth and T'uark would have been all over them if they were alive and there for the birth. I would never hear the end of it."

I tilted my head behind her, seeing the third pup still clinging to Lar'ja's leg. "Who is that then?"

Anya squinted her eyes in curiosity. "Oh yeah. That's Kur'tar. He's shyer than these little ones so I'm not going to push him. But he would love to say hi to you if he could."

I looked at the male pup and noted the differences in his appearance. Unlike the twins, this male was Yautja. He had dark skin but I could see a dull red hue between the scales and cracks that decorated him. I didn't see a similarity except for the golden eyes. Other than that, there was nothing that he inherited from Anya or Lar'ja.

I wonder . . .

I pushed that thought away. I didn't want to spoil this precious moment with questions about who Kur'tar was. I turned my attention back to Anya. "You've been a busy bee. So I assume that you're pregnant again?"

She nodded, laying a hand on her protruding stomach. "Yes. It seems I can't get enough of having pups."

I coughed. "You have a family of your own now."

"And you too."

Anya raised her blue eyes at me. Her gaze was soft until they began to seep out something else. I knew all too well what that meant. The mood turned sour and dark. "So . . . Are you alright?"

My chest began to hurt. Not from the pain of hearing those words but rather my body. The heart monitor on my side began to beep even slower. It felt like my heart was running on borrowed strength. My legs began to shake and my hands felt heavy. It was been hard for me to keep my eyes open. I wanted to fall asleep . . . but this was different.

And I knew . . . It was time.

"Rory?"

"Rory?"

Both Lar'ja and Anya came close to my side. The beeping of the monitor slowed even more. An indication that I don't have much time left. She reached for my hands and grasped them, including the knife I still held. "Don't push yourself, Rory. You need to rest and you'll feel better soon."

"No, Anya. Not this time."

She lowered her gaze. A mix between knowing the truth or denying the inevitable was written on her. She gripped my hands harder, almost straining my bones. It didn't matter. The alarm of the monitor started but it would be a while for the nurses to come. Either way, it won't stop what's coming. My breath hitched and grew heavier. My body is struggling to take a decent breath.

"No, Rory. You'll be fine." Tears were starting to form at the corners but she held it in. I could only smile.

"I've lived too long to keep going. Everyone we knew is long gone. I have a family that has flourished. My world is safe and secure. I had a fulfilled life . . . and it's all thanks to both of you."

I moved my fingers around until they were wrapped in hers. She didn't flinch or even acknowledge it. Her eyes never left mine as I kept going.

"And I'm glad to see you . . . One last time."

My eyes started to open and close. My strength was fading. My heart was barely beating. Anya leaned closer while Lar'ja stood over us. I can feel her sorrow as clear as day but I knew she understood. No matter what she could do, there's so much that anyone can cheat death. I've done that one too many.

"I'm glad I got to do that for you."

I smiled. "I'll always be with you." A small tear began to fall over her cheek. All she could do was smile but it was more than enough for me. That smile . . .

"Thank you . . . for everything."

I let the urge to sleep flow into me. My eyes closed as my vision slowly faded. Many feared death and I have throughout my life. But now . . . it was a relief and I wasn't scared. Anya and Lar'ja with me, surrounded by their family. Mine had supported me throughout my life. This is all I ever wanted. My eyes closed for the last time. And then, I felt the darkness overtake me.

I was free.

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

The heart monitor buzzed constantly and I took a glimpse to see the line was solid. His hands relaxed over mine. If it wasn't for me, the knife would have fallen out. He appeared as if sound asleep.

But he was gone. The last of my friends . . . my brother.

"Mother?"

X'aiya pulled on one of my dreadlocks to grab my attention. Du'man-de came as well, moving to kneel on the bed. He took a look at Rory and then back to me. "Why are you crying?"

Du'man-de touched my cheek, catching the rear that somehow escaped without me noticing. I shook my head and wiped whatever else I missed off my face. "It's nothing, sweetheart. It was his time . . . like everything else must face eventually. He was a true warrior to the end."

"He's really nice . . . and brave. Wasn't he?"

I chuckled at X'aiya. "Of course." I grabbed Du'man-de off of the bed. "Take him, Lar'ja."

He grabbed our son without question but hesitated for a moment. "I'm sorry."

I knew he meant more but there was nothing else to be said. His golden eyes were enough to explain. I shook my head. "It's fine. At least we got to see him at least once. And knowing he did well . . . was enough."

I made sure to do one final thing. I moved Rory's hands and put them together on his chest. I positioned the knife so that he was holding it and that whoever found him would know this was important. I stood up and took one last look down at Rory's body. He seems at peace. Thank you, Brother.

I heard footsteps and both of us turned, hearing shouts coming closer. "We need to get going, my love. We've overstayed our welcome."

"I know . . . I know . . ."

We got out of there as soon as the nurses arrived. Our cloaks kept us invisible, although the nurses were too frantic in checking with Rory. It's too late. We passed through the halls and rooms, careful not to bump into anyone that came through. Luckily, there wasn't a lot in the section we were in. In a few minutes, we got onto the room where the ship waited. It was the safest place and the pups were getting anxious. They didn't like the cloak so we deactivated it when we were close to the ramp.

"Phew." X'aiya changed back to an ooman, shaking her dreadlocks. "I'm glad we can finally go home."

"I thought you said that you wanted to see our mother's home planet?"

"I do, Du'man-de. But I want to go and play with my friends back home. I feel like we haven't been there in a long time. Right, Kur'tar?"

He lowered his head. "Yes. You're right."

"See?"

I interrupted them. "Let's get into the ship. Quickly now."

"Yeah! Come on, Kur'tar!"

The pups ran up the ramp with X'aiya dragging Kur'tar behind. I watched them for a moment, smiling at how happy they were.

"Come on, my love." Lar'ja rubbed my back with a smile. I took a few steps, staying by his side as we made it to our ship.

"Excuse me?"

Both of us froze except that Lar'ja whipped around with a growl. I heard a soft gasp and then a whimper. Sounds like a kid.

"Wait."

I turned around, involuntarily pushing Lar'ja back. Right in front of us, a small ooman child stood at the edge of the roof. She appeared frightened, expected with Lar'ja growling at her, but she stood her ground. We weren't supposed to let any oomans see us but the child was familiar. It took a moment to realize it was the child who was with Rory earlier.

She straightened herself. "Hello. My name's Amelia."

It was quiet for a few moments. She didn't appear to be a threat and no one else was around. The child was more curious than afraid. I stepped forward, keeping my hand to stop Lar'ja.

"Are you sure this is alright?"

I nodded. "She won't harm us. Trust me."

Without hesitation, I walked closer and the child did the same until we met in the middle. Lar'ja stayed with me but kept a fair distance to not scare her. Only a few inches away, I kneeled in front of her.

"Hello, sweetheart."

The child spoke softly. "You're Anya, aren't you?"

I nodded. "Yes."

The nervousness around her diminished, replaced with excitement and wonder. "I knew it! It is you and Lar'ja as well! Grandpa Rory talked about you a lot. I knew you were real!"

I couldn't help but giggle. Lar'ja hid his face to keep from chuckling but I could hear it. "Yes, I am. I knew your great grandfather very well."

"Did he really fight in the war!? Was he a strong warrior!?"

"Of course. He fought bravely."

Amelia jumped and squeaked, joyous like she finally met her favorite celebrity. What did you tell them, Rory? I had to calm her down as to not apart anyone else who might be an earshot away. "Calm down."

She stopped. "I'm sorry. It's just that . . . some of my brothers didn't believe it but I never stopped. My mother heard of you too. You should come and meet them! I'm sure they'll welcome you."

"As much as I appreciate it, I have to go home where I belong. I can't stay."

"Awww. I want them to know you're real. Both of you." She glanced at Lar'ja, tilting her head in curiosity. A complete opposite of a few moments ago. Lar'ja clocked his mandibles and snorted. Amelia giggled as any child would.

"I appreciate that . . . but I can't."

For some reason, I looked down and saw my necklace dangling. An idea came into my head and I didn't hesitate to do it. I moved my hands behind and took off my necklace.

"Here." I took Amelia's hands and opened them. I placed the necklace in her hands "Take this. A gift from me."

I let go and Amelia checks it out. I could see the confusion on her face when she tried to read the writing. "Ta . . . kasha . . . sha . . ."

"Ta'kasa."

Amelia raised her head, enunciating the name. "Ta'kasa?"

I smiled. "Correct. That's my name. It means Balance."

"Balance . . . I like that name." But then, she looked at me with concern. "Isn't this yours?"

"It is . . . but I already know who I am. Keep this . . . so that you'll know that I'll always watch over you and your family. Okay?"

I rapped her nose and stood up. She smiled and checked the necklace once more. It was then that I heard the engine of the ship starting. It was an automated command that Lar'ja or I can do. Guess our time is over.

"We need to get going, Anya. More oomans are coming."

"Okay."

I walked back with Lar'ja back to the ramp. It started to rise as we reached the top. I looked back once more and saw what Lar'ja meant. Two male ooman children and a female adult came to Amelia's side. Their eyes widened in shock towards us. This must be her family.

I softened and gave a smile. Thank you.

The ramp finally closed and the ship rose from the ground. Lar'ja purred as he wrapped his arm around my shoulders. I padded him and followed him to the front deck where our pups were playing. I was thankful we had a lockdown on the controls or else the ship would be in trouble.

"Mother! Father! I want to drive!"

"Me too!"

"Guys . . . I don't think we should play around with that."

"Live a little, Kur'tar!"

I grabbed them off the panels and placed them on the ground. "When you get older and Blooded. Go to your rooms and play until we get home."

"Okay!"

The pups ran out of the deck and into the hallway, leaving Lar'ja and I alone. I chuckled in amusement. "I'm afraid when they do get older."

"I feel the same way."

Lar'ja moves behind me, hugging me in his embrace. I stared at the window, watching as the Earth came into the view until it shrinks out of view. My home . . . I'll protect you. I hope you can hear me, Rory.

"Do you remember the first time we met?"

I smiled. "I do. Vividly."

"I thought it was nothing . . . but I think it was fate that we met. Wasn't it?"

He leaned his face into the back of my head and purred. His mandibles caressed my back and his hands grasped my protruding belly. It was soft that I closed my eyes and faded back into time.

Come on! Just run and get out of here!

I remembered him coming closer to me in such a dark place. I was so afraid that my life would end right then and there . . . by his own hands. Little did I know that it was only the beginning. Now . . . it's hard to imagine that I would not only be with him as a mate but also have a family of my own. That I would have friends back on Earth and Yautja Prime.

It felt like a dream . . . a dream that became true. I smiled, letting myself drift into a deep slumber. I swore I felt Rory's presence with me. I can sense his smile along with everyone I knew. I was happy.

Such a twisted fate . . .

[The End.]

Hello Everyone!

Finally, the ending has come.

Anya's journey has come full circle. And like she said, it was such a Twisted Fate lol. Thank you all for being with me every single step . . . From the first chapter of Twisted Fate to the final chapter of Balance. Thank you so much.

The last chapter for Nexus will be coming around next week. And there will be more stories to come but I'll be making some announcements on that last chapter. I hope all of you can wait. :)

Thank you to Anonymous-E, Mariah, Guest, NeverNeverLady, and IanAlphaAxel for the reviews on Chapter 44. I apologize for the last chapter since FF was doing something weird but I hope you love this. And I know all do you would have put a review. Hopefully, we won't have that same mistake again.

Thank you and Good Hunting! Stay safe and healthy! :)))

Reading notes:

Normal = Anya (human form) or any human speaking English (ooman language)

Italic = Anya (human form) or any human speaking Yautja

Bold = Any Yautja speaking English (ooman language)

Bold and Italic = Any Yautja speaking Yautja language