As soon as he had been notified, Clamp had scrambled to get to Sonny and Callies home. Now, he was shown the evidence of Bleylocks betrayal towards them. Clamp was terrified by what was put in front of him. He turned to Sonny, who very much understood his fear. His were pretty much the same. To get an idea of the magnitude of Belylocks betrayal was shocking to some, but not him. What he saw, was the unaltered evil that Bleylock had become, after their split.
"This is what a search of Sublevel Twelve at Technoid revealed. Bleylock had us both under surveillance, far beyond what our jobs allowed him to. Cant even say I am surprised. I always felt watched down there. Only difference is, I now know it was real" Sonny stated with a sigh. Clamp nodded slowly.
"It really shouldn't come as a surprise to any of us. The questions he would ask on his visits tipped us both of." He commented. Sonny nodded slowly.
"Duke Maddox allowed you to take this?" Clamp asked, looking at the boxes. Corso nodded.
"Technoid hired Shiloh Security after our pardon Clamp. Duke Maddox dont trust his own people anymore. Understandable with the mess we had to clear. It came at a high price, Sonny taking the worst of it. But it led to a situation that allows us full control and lowering our shoulders. Also, it is very strange that he trust us more than his own, but it makes our job easier. So yes,We were permitted to do this. This is the result of our digging into Bleylocks old files. It is a hell of a lot more too. We will be busy with this for months on end. But it proves all we knew already, Bleylock being up to no good. What a surprise." He said. Sonny shook his head.
"We can't blame Technoid for this Corso. It's not their operation. This is all Bleylock. Its time we put blame where it really belongs. He used Technoid as a shield to operate underground. That is the part I am not looking forwards to learn more about, the level of his betrayal to his employeer. I know what he is capable of in regards to that. And I am going to put a stop to more people becomimg his list is already long enough as it is" He said fiercely with clenched fists. Corso was about to say something when Artie and Bennett arrived with another box. They looked concerned.
"Before going on Sonny, you may want to look at this," Artie said carefully. Sonny made a double-take.
"Did you find something of interest on the video files, Artie?" Sonny asked but he knew the answer. Artie nodded.
"Your medical file from that time is missing from the boxes Sonny, along with a lot of things that pertains to you,and that's making us worried. medical files that is gone is bad news, especially since it is very personal information, some of it may still apply today. And that leaves you potentially exposed and vulnerable" He said. Sonny nodded. Corso had a serious look on his face.
"That man you say was Bleylock's son must have it, but what purpose could it serve? If it is from the same time as Clamps, the information is outdated, mostly, expect for a few things" He said. Sonny agreed. "I don't like that he has it either Corso, as that is a Technoid issued medical file. Back then, the files were very extensive. I am not sure if it has any blood work info, but if so, That is a potensial catch. I still recall painstakingly detailed information on weight, height and all sorts of things. Even retinal scans and palmprints. My retinal scan from back then wont work today, since I had corrective surgery to my eyes and replaced my irises from blue to hazel. My palmprint is still the same. But then there is the allergies..." He mused. Corso nodded.
"That means he can use it against you. I recall your health issues when you joined us. This is not a file he should be allowed to keep. If he is like his father, dont expect him to be friendly towards you. More likely, he would kill you on sight. And that I will not allow him to do" He said. Clamp looked at Sonny.
"What does that mean practically Sonny? You always had an iron health back then, is there something you didnt tell me?" He asked. Corso looked at him seriously.
"Sonny's got some allergies that are ripe for exploiting, If that is in those files, they can create things that could potensially harm Sonny. Render him unconscious or worse, choke him." Corso explained. Clamp looked at Sonny.
"What sort of allergy are we talking about here? " He asked concerned. Sonny sighed.
"Towards a common thing used in a lot of different galactik medical brands. Some of them, herbs found only on symptoms back then were dizziness, blurry vision, nausea. Like being drunk, after just one drink. To the point, I was unable to walk on my own. It stayed in my system for a good week, even with Corso cleaning it out" Sonny said. Clamp nodded this.
"It happened once before, after he became a pirate when someone tried to drug him. They wanted to collect the bounty for him, but Sonny would be too strong for them to handle. Unfortunately for them, Sonny caught a severe allergic reaction to the drug they used. It could really have ended bad. But I found out what it was. Its ok now,I know how to treat it if it should ever happen again. I would prefeer to immunize him to it, if at all possible, as a safety measure" Corso said quietly. "It was… unnerving. I thank my mother every day for having taught me how to counter it. Without that knowledge, Sonny could have died from the next stage of the allergic reaction, he was already slipping into it, wich would have been respitory issues, I was sitting by him for days, making sure he was still breathing" He said. Clamp was worried.
"And what was the treatment for this allergy? If it can be used against him, it better be a remedy that is ready. Or alternately, Sonny stays at a safe distance from it" He Asked. Sonny nodded and looked at Corso.
"Well, did you make something to help diffuse the situation should it rise?" Sonny asked. Corso nodded with a smile.
"I did, don't worry Sonny.I got a stockpile ready should you need it. As long as you get it in time, you'll be fine. I will work on something to give a more permanent immunization." Corso said, looking at Sonny. "So as long as things didn't get worse than they were back then, you won't choke on your own spit." He added. Sonny nodded. Allergies could get worse when you got older.
"Also, maybe you have some preventive measures for it too?" He wondered. Corso nodded proudly.
"I have Sonny. And he doesn't know that it excists. We should keep it that way for now. I wish you could be immunized, but at the moment, I dont have anything strong enough to be lasting" He said. Sonny nodded.
"Have some of it made ready Corso and make sure most people around me have it on them, should the need arrise. Also, give some to my family. Allergies can be genetic." He said. Corso nodded.
"I have asked D'Jok and Mei to come over with her, so we can have this test done. Its better to be safe than sorry" He said. Sonny nodded.
As Corso left the room, Clamp looked at Sonny.
"I don't like where this is going. This could turn into an all-out war Sonny. I don't want it to happen. No one does. We almost did before, lets not make it become reality this time" He said. Sonny nodded with a hard look in his normally calm eyes.
"The Pirates and I will do all we can to prevent a new war or we will die trying."
Just outside the shadow Archipelago
Keiran looked at the one calling him from a concealed contact code. What he was demanding was outrageous.
"Let me get this clear Miller, you want me to capture Sonny again and bring him to Stellar Unix this time? That's close to impossible. He's not wanted anymore and works for Technoid. The pirates will be vigilantly protecting him after the last time. Me getting him then was pure luck. To get close to him now..its mission impossible.
I can't get close to him without risking my own life. I've been exiled. Trying to get close to the pirates now will be suicide." Keiran argued. He remembered Sonny's hateful glare and words.
'Enjoy your blood money, Traitor'
He had known Sonny would escape, and he still had the money for the contract. He had looked at it many times. Sonny was right. It was blood money. He had captured an innocent man and sold him to the enemy for pirates would not forget that, despite him being safe now. Even if he reached out,asking for a second chance to make things right, Sonny would have informed his pirates that he didn't trust him after this. That trust wouldn't be won back easily, even if he did get to speak to him. Sonny would more than likely send Corso in his place, he would not come in person. He was too careful. Capturing him would be impossible. Maurice Miller was stone-faced.
"Well then, I hope you said goodbye to your family back in Shiloh." He informed coldly. Keiran gasped sharply.
"Leave them out of this! This is between you and me" He yelled angrily.
"Capture Sonny and I don't have to bring them in. Its your call." he said, The conversation was ended. Kieran felt sweat running down his back as he stared at the screen. He had to speak to Corso this time, even if it meant getting into a fight or even getting killed. He was in the worst possible position to negotiate with the Pirates. All he could do, was try to tell Sonny not to do this for him, but the inhabitants of Shiloh. As the Pirates leader, Sonny had to listen to that. Keiran accessed the Pirates' frequency and sent out a coded message.
"I know I don't deserve your help, Sonny but please do it for my family."
At her home, whom she shared with Rocket,Tia was in deep thought as she sat at her computer. Her mind drifted back to the time Sonny had helped her free her parents from a Technoid prison. He had helped her and so many people so much, without asking anything in return. She wanted to help him have a new start. Her status as the daughter of diplomat parents gave her access to files that no one else could. Maybe heliping Sonny find information of his past, of her team mmates mother, his late wife, was a way to help him get much needed had suffered long enough. Tia wanted to find things that could truly help him move forwards in his life. She decided to call her father.
"How can I help you, my dear?" He asked with a smile as he answered the call.
"Mom, Dad,I was wondering if you could look up information on this woman," Tia said and sent the image Mei had given her. Her mother looked at it.
"I've met this woman. Her name was Helena Danvers. Last time I saw her, she was married to a man named I'Son. I think I've met him before, too. To my knowledge, she died during the catastrophe on Akillian" She mused. Tia smiled.
"His name's Sonny Blackbones now. And yes, he was married to her, before the disaster." She said. Her father smiled.
"Are you doing this to help him find answers to close the book of regrets he has Tia?If so,I will see what I can do. After what he did for us, It is the least we can do for him" He said.
"I Sort of am Dad. We know little to nothing about what happened to D'Jok's real mother. You both know that he is Sonnys son, I know Sonny told you on board his ship. I'm trying to find any information about her death to help Sonny get some answers. I think he still needs some closure with that, especially since he is now in a new relationship. We all love him and the pirates. If we can help them, it is worth it." Tia said. Her parents nodded.
"I believe I have something Tia. Let me make some inquiries, and see what I can definately deserves to get some answers and inner peace." her father promised her. then they said good bye and Tia returned to her schedule.
Maya was sitting in her cave. It got pretty lonely here now that D'Jok was gone. He had his own family with Mei and the baby now, and his own life in Genesis. It was easier for him to stay in touch and meet with his father too. Maya had met Sonny for the first time during the baby shower, and she knew he posed no threat to her role in D'Jok's life now. Her mind wandered back to the abduction that night. Maya recalled D'Jok and Mei's fearful faces. And Corso… Maya knew Corso had kicked himself in all directions for letting that happen. It took her son to shake him enough out of it to get a rescue mission on the way. Maya sighed. She had never told D'Jok of the visions she had about that outcome if they had not found him in time. She had seen the devastated Pirates, lifting Sonny's lifeless body out of the water at a remote beach on a planet she did not recognize, looking defeated,knowing this was not where his life ended, it was just wheere he had been dumped. She had seen Corso cut through the material of a bubble that surrounded him, checking his pulse,tears streaming fom his normal eye, speaking the words no one wanted to hear, how they would put him in his bed onboard the ship before bringing him to a crypt in Shiloh to bury him.
That heavy blow would have torn the Pirates apart. Corso would catch the brunt of it, spiraling down in alcoholism, spending most nights with a gun against his head, only the taught that Sonny might be heartbroken by this keeping him from pulling the trigger. Luckily, that hadn't happened. They got to him in time to save him. She recalled D'Jok calling her after the rescue in the reservoirs, where Sonny came close to drowning, telling her Sonny was fine. He had also done so after they rescued him after the abduction, and returned to had met him later the same evening, seeing with their own eyes that he was ok, and then Sonny had the surprise announcement by Duke Maddox, granting the pirates a full pardon. She smiled before an intense vision struck her. This time Maya was able to discern who it was about; It was about Sonny.
She saw him with D'Jok, in a resutrant, a private stall, reading a letter. There were so many emotions in his eyes and deep deep letter, she also remembered, she held it still, after all these years, it was time she gave it to him. Maya remembered how the woman she now knew was named Helena Danvers had spent the last days before her baby son was born, writing that letter for her husband. Maya hadn't asked about her husband, seeing how it saddened her.
"Please don't pry Maya. It will only bring you misery." She had said. She wrote the letter in the last days before D'Jok was born.
The vision changed, now showing a snowy landscape with father and son in the snow, holding shovels. Corso, Callie and herself were in the background, in front of a grave. Helenas and son exchanging looks before kneeling in front of the grave, putting down flowers. Both took their bracelets and placed it onto the grave. She saw Sonny also sit in silence, in a whisper, before taking his wedding band of, and returning it to her. He would cut the last tie, be free to be with Callie. It would be both sad and at the same time,liberating to bare witness.
Maya came out of the vision as her holophone called. It was the Obia moon ambassador.
"Maya, I need your help with someone." He said. Maya looked at him.
"Who?" She asked. The ambassador looked at her.
"It's time that the people of Akillian do something for Sonny. He has certainly done things for us, beyond the call of duty" He said. Maya nodded.
"I'd love to help. What do you need me for?"
Sonny was holding a little three-month-old Iris in his arms while Corso ran the test on D'Jok. She was always very attentive to her grandfather, making happy sounds as Sonny made sounds back. The grandfather and the baby seemed to have a language of their own. He laid down on the floor, letting the baby lay on his chest. Iris kept reaching for his finger with the old wedding ring. Sonny chuckled.
"You like shiny things don't you? Your dad is going to have to get plenty of tiaras. The shinier the better" He said. Iris looked at him, blowing bubbles.
"Don't remind me Dad, my bank account is already trying to take cover, I never knew having a kid was this expensive" D'Jok joked. Sonny laughed while staying focused on the baby. Mei smiled as she found the small toys in her baby bag. But Iris wasnt into it. Today she was more interested in her grandfather and Sonny was a very willing playmate for her.
"If granddad's around, she forgets that other people exist. She wont even know if I am gone until its time to feed" She laughed. Sonny gently sat up, the baby securely held to his chest. He carefully laid her on her back next to him and moments later, she started to turn over on her stomach. Sonny smiled as he turned on his side. When she succeeded, Mei pointed out that she seemed happy with herself. Sonny lifted her.
"You're going to be a real handful, aren't you?Always in a hurry to get places, just like your dad" He said. Iris made a small, proud sound. D'Jok shook his head.
"She's stubborn already. At this rate, she will be up trying to walk in a few weeks" He mused.
"I wonder where she gets that stubbornness from? It woudnt happen to be a Blackbones trait by any chance." Mei laughed. Sonny smiled and looked up as Callie came into the room, bringing a new teddy bear for the baby.
"You're taking the grandparent's role seriously, Just dont spoil her rotten" Mei said.
"They are spoiling her rotten alright, and leaving us to clean up the mess" D'Jok said. Sonny sent him a look and grinned at his son's pouting.
"I haven't even started the spoiling of my grandchild yet son. I am not gonna tell you if I start either, you figure it out. And by the way,Are you up to speed on a baby her ages needs by now?" He questioned, raising an eyebrow as he awaited D'Jok's reply. Mei hid a smile and Sonny looked at her. That meant no. He had a feeling D'Jok had something on his mind and that he was seconds away from springing a surprise on him. Corso chuckled.
"You're falling behind there, kid. Your dad might just take over. I think he reads up more on that than do other things, whenever he can get away with it" He said. D'Jok had a mischievous grin on his face. Sonny braced himself.
"Well Dad, since you're an expert on babies by now, Mei and I need some personal time, any chance you can babysit this weekend?" He challenged his father. Sonny smiled. This was a perfect chance for him and Callie to practice being grandparents.
"Any time D'Jok. Just tell us when you bring her over, I am already looking forward to a grand dad weekend" He replied with a smile. Mei smiled too.
"I didn't know about this together time. You got some explaining to do about that my dear." She said, looking at D'Jok for an answer. He smiled.
"It's a surprise Mei,I have had something special planned for us for some time." He said. Sonny smiled at Corso and signaled to stay silent. The young parents needed a night off and D'Jok had something planned for the mother of his child. The pirates had their own plans, and a baby would not be in the way for their activities.
"Looks like we get some time to be grandparents Callie. That makes us some time for family activities." He smiled and turned his attention to the baby again. Callie gave Iris her sucker.
"I don't mind that at all Sonny. Iris is such a sweetheart when she is here. She is a pleasure to babysit for" She said as she took the baby from Sonny. Iris spat out the sucker and made a laughing sound, while reaching for her grandfather whom made a funny face back. D'Jok looked at her. that was a wonderful sound.
"That was the first time we heard our daughter laugh, she is growing up at lightning speed" Mei smiled.
"All thanks to her grandparents. It must be a natural talent that Sonny has, like so much else" She grinned. Sonny couldn't help but chuckle. This was one of those precious moments he had missed out on with D'Jok, and here, he got it with his grandchild. There was a strange feeling in his heart. A new start, so many things he had been robbed of. Sonny signaled for Corso to continue his tests while he sat down and took Iris again. The baby looked at him with trust in her eyes and that laughter could melt even the most hardened Pirate. Would he be able to live up to her expectations as a grandparent, to his own high standards? Sonny smiled as he played with the baby. He didn't see D'Jok and Mei smile to each other. They had wanted this for him, for him to just have the freedom back, and as much of the time he had lost with his own son, with his grandchild. And it was clear to see, Sonny had formed a bond with their little one, and they could see the truly happy smile he had on his face when playing with her. Sonny looked over at Corso, who was still researching. He looked very focused, As he cheked his sons results,as he prepared for the baby to be checked, finally, he gave Sonny the thumbs up. He was ready to proceed.
"What does it say?" He asked. Corso looked up from the screen.
"He has the allergy as well Sonny but not as bad as you do. A small dose of medicine should take care of it in his case. Now, we need to test the baby." He smiled as he looked at the baby whom looked trustingly at him. Sonny nodded.
"Mei, do you want to hold her for this?" He asked. Mei shook her head.
"She is calmer in your arms Sonny, you hold her," She said. Sonny smiled as he held the baby and distracted her while Corso did the test.
"We have to wait for around an hour to get the results." Corso said.
The hour of wait was passed with a light meal, and Iris going from arm to arm among the Pirates. After a while, she was handed to D'Jok. Iris was smiling all the time till now but in her father's arms, she started to get sour. D'Jok tried to calm her but it didn't work. Sonny wanted to intervene when he noticed Corso had a rather serious look on his face as he looked at the screen. He could tell Corso was double and tripple checking some numbers. And his stone faced expression spoke volumes.
"Is something wrong Corso?" He asked. A bad feeling came over him. Corso looked uneasy.
"Your allergy is severe Sonny, That we have known for a while, but we got rememdies for it that your body can handle. But for her, even a small dose of it would be deadly. Have a look." he said. Corso made room for Sonny to sit down next to him and view the screen. Sonny looked at the gauges. Iris numbers spiked, far beyond his own level, wich was considered grave. This was serious. Sonny sighed, as he looked at his son and soon to be daughter in law with a serious expression.
"Mei, D'Jok, we need to talk. We have some serious issues here"
This was it.
He was back in Genesis. To hopefully avert a disaster.
There was a reply to his message late last night, They would hear him out, and now, he was in the Astro port, sitting at a Cafe, waiting for their arrival. He didn't know who he was waiting for. The Pirates wouldn't go easy on him, not after what he did. He understood they were still mad over him abducting Sonny, and selling him to Technoid as they put it. The only thing that went in his favor, was that he had made sure Sonny wouldn't be harmed during the imprisonment. That had to count for something. Keiran wished he had more time to talk to Sonny, make him see reason in what he had done. That wouldn't happen now. He was lucky if he got to see Sonny at all, it was not likely to happen the way things looked. Keiran let his thoughts wander as he waited for the Pirates to approach him. He left his weapons on board his ship too. He didn't want to appear hostile, as that could lead to unncecesary agression on their part.
Keiran ordered a cup of coffee. He noticed his hands were shaking slightly as he lifted it to his mouth. As he emptied the cup, two shadows appeared behind him.
They were here.
"No Sudden Moves. Get up and don't turn around. We're giving you one chance. Don't waste it." A voice said with a lot of suppressed anger. Keiran did as he was asked. He could feel a laser pressed to his back as they entered a taxi.
"Stay silent and keep your head down." The pirate growled. After a while they got out of the Taxi and Keiran was led into the back room of a Pirate operated bar of some kind. He could tell the clientell were former pirates, sending him suspicious or outright angry looks as he was led past them.
"Keep him down." An angry voice called out. Keiran winced. He knew that voice. He feared it, and now it was reality.
Corso was coming out of the office space, and he was not hiding his anger.
Because of course it would be him. And he was pissed. He was forcing himself to stay calm, but Keiran knew, Corso was seething with anger.
"Give me one reason not to blow your brains out. After all you did, you still think we will help you?The only reason you are still breathing, is that Sonny wont let me slit your throat" he said. Corso was seething and Keiran could understand why.
"I am being blackmailed Corso. If I don't give them Sonny they'd kill everyone on Shiloh." Keiran tried. Corso growled.
"And you believed that? We want nothing to do with you. The only reason I haven't shot you yet is because I promised Sonny not to. I dont know why he is being this kind to you, you dont deserve it. Tell me, why should we believe a word you say after what you did? I suggest you leave and never return. Forget you ever knew us, or ever heard of Sonny. You will never get close to him again, try and that is the last thing you ever do" Corso snarled with his fists tightly clenched.
"I never hurt him, I actively tried to avoid causing him harm, I even negtotiated with them to not harm him during captivity. I always knew he would escape. Technoid isnt smart enough to hold him for long" Keiran argued. Corso nodded, still seething with anger.
"That's the only reason you're still alive. If he had been injured, you would be dead by now" He said.
"Is he alright? They didnt do anything bad to him I hope" Keiran asked. Corso looked at him.
"Why do you care? You got your blood money. You have seen the news, judge from that. If he looked ok to you, then he is ok now" He hissed. Keiran looked at Corso.
"And I regret taking the money. I regret abducting him. I deserve to be exiled for what I did, but the people on the Shiloh Nebula will be Miller's next target unless I bring him Sonny. You have to let me talk to him" He said. Corso looked at Bennett whom pushed Keiran into a seat. This needed to be addressed immediately.
"Call Sonny. NOW."
Tia stood next to her father as they greeted Maya when she got of the astro bus from Akillian. Tia had called D'Jok and told him about the plan. D'Jok was deeply touched by Mayas gesture to his father. He wanted to see his dad when receiving this truth, Any excuse he had to spend time with his dad, he would take. He hugged Maya as she came off the Astro bus.
"Thanks for coming mom, and thanks for doing this for Dad." He said softly. Maya looked at her son and her grandchild. "Of course. Have you told Sonny yet?" She asked. D'Jok shook his head.
"I figured I'll call him now and see if he is busy. I can't wait to see his reaction. I have a felling he will free up time for this" He said. D'Jok walked away from the others as he called his father.
"Dad, I hope I'm not interrupting something…"
Corso had told Sonny everything that Keiran said. Keiran begged him to see Sonny in person but Corso held his ground. After what he did, Corso was not going to put Sonny in the same room. Someone whom had abducted a fellow pirate whom he saw as a long time friend, was not someone he would trust. Especially not with Sonnys safety.
"Do you have any idea what you nearly did Keiran? Its only thanks to the rigorous training for him to take position as a leader that saved him from a far more dangerous situation. We finally found out what Technoid planned to do to him. And they damn near succeeded this time. Had Sonny not been able to fight it, we would have lost him for good" He said angrily. Keiran had looked down.
"I regret what I did, I have nothing against Sonny. I never did. He told me that one life is worth sacrificing for many others. If I had known in advance that they wanted to take Sonny, I would have warned you, told him to lay low" He stated. Corso sent him a furious look.
"Sonny's wrong when it comes to his life! And I'll make sure no one makes that mistake of attemting to abduct him again. As for you wanting to help, I dont believe it for a second" He said. "We can't afford to lose him. He's our Leader. What you did to him will come at a price" he snarled, clearly ready to punch him in the face. Keiran looked at him.
"What if he gets killed? What will you do then? You got no one to replace him. If he is done for, it goes to hell for all of you" He asked. Corso looked at him with a smirk.
"Doesn't matter anymore. The Pirates are pardoned now. It cant be revoked. And furthermore, Sonny's got himself a girlfriend now and a safe job. He's not in danger anymore. At the moment, he is untouchable" Corso said. Keiran made a face.
"That must have stung. Here you are, giving all your love to him and he walks off with the first floozy who offers him a date." Keiran asked, trying to strike a nerve. Corso gritted his teeth, shaking as he looked down.
"Shut up about things you don't know. Callie makes Sonny happy. That's all that matters to me. And with her, he is finally safe from harm, that is all I ever wanted for him" Corso smiled sadly. That shut Keiran up.
Corso had relayed all the information Keiran told him to Sonny. Corso could tell a plan was taking form as he looked at Sonnys very thoughtful hologram.
"How are we going to deal with this?" He looked at Sonny's hologram. Sonny made his decision.
"Give the order to evacuate the Shiloh Nebula, silently Corso. I have an idea for dealing with Maurice Miller. It requires some preparation" Sonny said. Corso looked at Sonny.
"How Sonny? You are not going to sacrifice yourself, Sonny, I won't allow it. We need you" He stated. Sonny smiled. Corso being overprotective again...
"Calm down Corso, that's not at all what I'm planning. I'll tell you about my plan later. Right now,I got a few preparations to make." He informed him. Corso nodded.
"What do we do about Keiran? I propose a quick stabbing." He said. Sonny smiled.
"He's part of my plan Corso. I'll talk to him when the time comes. For now, lock him up in The Black Mantas holding cell til the Shiloh secuity cell unit is operable" He said. Corso sighed.
"You're the boss. But lets be clear, I don't want you in the same room as him." He reminded Sonny. Sonny laughed.
"Dont you Worry Corso, I dont need to be face to face with him for my plan to work. You will see when I tell you" He said in a mild voice before he ended the call.
Once he did that, his transmitter signaled a new call. Sonny picked it up.
"D'Jok! What a pleasant surprise. I didnt expect you to take time out of your schedule for this today, I understand you got a full day ahead" Sonny smiled. D'Jok smiled back at his dad. He had checked his calendar, typical pirate paranoia. But by now he was used to his father doing this.
"Yeah its busy, but something came up Dad, something that has to do with the past, and you. Are you busy Dad? Can you meet us at Tia's restaurant?" He asked, still smiling. "I have something for you. Something Maya has kept for you for a very long time" he said. Sonny frowned as he heard that.
"Is anything wrong?Must be a reason why she didnt give it to me sooner "He asked.
"No, I just think it might help dad, to bring some needed closure for you" D'Jok said.
"Maya has something special for you Dad. A letter from mom. written just before I was born" He whispered. Sonny inhaled sharply. Helena had left him a letter? He felt torn. The way things were going, this was a chance to let go and move on. He had to read this letter. Try to make out how the last days of her life were, what had led to her premature death.
"I will be there in about fifteen minutes." he said, with a strange sounding voice before he hung up.
"How did he take it?" Tia asked after the call between father and son ended.
"I'm not sure but he'll be at your restaurant in fifteen minutes. His face was unreadable too. Can you set up a private table Tia? He might need some time to take this in, and have questions for Maya" D'Jok asked. Tia nodded.
"I will have my staff prepare a private room. It feels good to finally be able to give something back. Especially to him and his men." Tia said. D'Jok smiled as he took Iris from Mei.
"You're the biggest achievement of my life kiddo. you really hold his heart in your hands. He'll be very happy to see will help him with this situation too" He smiled. Iris blew some bubbles while looking at her dad with big eyes. Tia smiled as Mei took her.
"Come on princess, time to go see granddad."
Tia had served them all a hot meal at her restaurant in a private chamber. Fitting, since it was a private matter that they were here for. She was behind the bar, waiting for the pirate chief to arrive. When She looked up from wiping a glass, She saw Sonny enter, carefully looking around. He wasnt dressed in his pirate uniform, but a plume red sweater and formfit black jeans, and sneakers. The only thing that identified him as a pirate, was the fact that He wore his hood, to avoid detection. Tia smiled as she approached him. She could see he was being careful, looking around discreetely. Tia approached Sonny to lead him to the room where the others waited for him. She could tell he was surprised by this move, and also curious to what it meant. She carefully touched his arm, making him notice her.
"Tia," The Pirate Chief smiled as he greeted her with a small hug. Tia let go of him. She had come to really appreciate him after he rescued her parents.
"It's good to see you Sonny. I hope you had no problems getting here?" She asked. Sonny smiled.
"I was nearby. The resturant is well known, so not really" He smiled from under his hood. Tia smiled reassuringly as she led him to the private chamber where the others were waiting for him.
"I hope this will help you with closure. I asked my dad to bring Maya here. Not only to deliver the letter but to let you see with your minds eye, what happened in the last hour before she passed. I hope that won't be too painful. Maya has an abillity to do that" She smiled carefully. Sonny smiled softly.
"Thank you, I truly appreciate the help.I am aware of Mayas gift" He said. She smiled.
"I'm just happy I could help." She said softly as Sonny patted her shoulder in comfort. She led him to the room with the others.
"Dad!" D'Jok rose to greet his father. Sonny gave him a quick hug before he sat down next to Mei and Maya. Iris made happy sounds when she saw her grandfather. Sonny could not help but smile when he saw her.
"Happy to see me?" He joked as Mei handed him the baby.
"She always is. I am sure granddad is her hero by now" Mei laughed and pulled out a rattle. They had more important things for Sonny to deal with. But the baby helped him relax some, wich was good for reached into her bag and pulled out an old envelope. it was brittle at the corners. it had been in storage for ovr 20 years now.
"I should have gotten this to you a lot sooner Sonny, I'm sorry I waited so long." She stammered. Sonny put his hand on her shoulder.
"I wouldn't have been ready before now Maya, this is the right time for this" He softly said. Maya looked at him compassionately. This wasn't going to be easy.
"Would you like to start with seeing her last two hours or the letter?" She asked. Sonny taught it over for a second.
"I would like to start with the vision," He said with a timid voice. D'Jok put a hand on his shoulder.
"I'm here with you Dad. Its time to see the truth, how you can let go of some guilt" He whispered. Sonny placed his hand atop D'Jok's. he appreciated his sons support on this.
"Thanks son." He softly said. Maya took Sonny's hand, by now he was silent and relaxed. She allowed the images in her mind, from over twenty-five years earlier, to flow to him.
He heard the first cries from D'Jok, his baby son. He saw her feeding him for the first time, sweating. She wasnt doing well. Then came the bleeding that would not stop. The fever that set in. Maya patting her forehead with a cold cloth to make her comfortable. The look on her face, she knew this was the end. Her handing his son to Maya, knowing her time was up. Seeing how life was leaving her eyes, how she rolled over, having taken her bracelet off and her giving D'Jok his name. And her final words.
"I'Son, I'm so sorry… ", as the memories faded. Sonny blinked, trying to process the intense emotions he had just witnessed.
Maya carefully let go of his hand. An awkward silence filled the room. All eyes were on Sonny, who tried to regain his composure, eyes closed.
"How are you feeling Sonny?" She asked carefully. Sonny didn't say anything, currently filled with emotions that he processed, and not just his own.
"Maya..." His voice sounded very soft.
"I can't thank you enough for all you've done for Helena and D'Jok. You are the reason that my son is still here. Without you, I would have lost them both, never knowing where they were or their end" He started. Maya placed her hand on his arm.
"Don't worry Sonny, you've suffered long enough. I am glad I could give you some answers" She smiled. Sonny smiled back. His gaze fell on the letter and he reached for it. It was Helena's handwriting, he recognized it anywhere. Slowly, he opened the envelope.
Corso locked up Keiran in The Black Mantas holding cell for now. Whatever plan Sonny had in mind, they needed to keep an eye on Keiran, and the best way was to keep him locked up. Corso knew about what D'Jok was planning, he had called him before Sonny,and told what was up. It was possible Sonny would need someone to talk to later, to process things. The plan was simple, and it made him smile. Things were looking up for Sonny in all ways. Even if things went to Hell for the Pirates, Sonny would now have a normal life to go back to. He wouldn't face the same fate as many leaders before him. I was also clear he wanted this for other Pirates, himself included.
If that was even possible to do. Corso loved the changes he saw in his friend but he wasn't sure if he'd be able to do the same thing himself or even if he wanted to.
He made his way to a small bar while he waited for Sonny to contact him. The Unadarian liquor here would do him some good. The bartender poured him a stiff one as he hung at the bar.
Corso was so immersed in his drink, he didn't notice the lady that sat down next to him until he looked up.
"Dame Simbai?" Corso asked, surprised to see her. She smiled at him, as she took her drink.
"You look surprised Corso, I like a drink occasionally." She said. Corso grinned.
"Never figured you for the type." He admitted. Dame Simbai smiled.
"And I never figured you'd be far away from Sonny at any time. Things really has changed for you is he?" She asked, looking around. Corso chuckled.
"Now that we're pardoned, Sonny has a lot more freedom. I don't need to watch him all the time. He's currently meeting with D'Jok about something." He explained. Dame Simbai nodded. Corso then told about Keiran and what he said about things. She nodded with the accessment Corso had made.
"Sonny needs to stay away from Miller Corso. The further distance between them there is, the better. It's probably an attempt to extract Flux from Sonny. The seed of Shiloh is incredibly strong, especially in Sonny. It makes him valuable to the Flux Society, as he has obtained Flux Master status. And it puts him in danger of new abduction attempts." She said. Corso nodded calmly.
"I told him the same. He's not throwing himself headfirst into danger again. I will make sure of that, He said he has a plan to deal with this. He will tell me the details later." Corso said. Dame Simbai looked at him.
"I always wondered why you're so protective of him. What you feel for him is beyond mere friendship. Something far deeper." She said. Corso nodded.
"I know the rumors Dame Simbai, we both do. If it's all the same to you, I like to keep it between Sonny and me. The truth is a private matter between us two only, the galaxy dont need to know" He said with a small smile.
"I've been with Sonny through the most trying times in his life. It would be weird if this was just mere friendship. Call it trauma bonding if you like, we have simmilar stories. I get him in ways others cant, not even Callie." Corso said with a soft smile. Dame Simbai nodded. She would have chosen another word, but it didnt seem Corso wanted to share the truth that seemed so obvious to anyone that got to know them.
"Was it… romantic in nature?" She asked carefully. Corso couldn't help but laugh.
"Yeah, we heard that too, and we have had our share of fun with it too" Corso said. "That one's now well and truly proven false, since he is in a relationship with Callie now. He is happy, and safe as he can be.. If it was ever true, to begin with..." He said, sounding a bit sad. Dame Simbai looked at him.
"So you do love him. Beyond the scope of the chance presented itself, you would act on it too" She smiled as she took another sip of her drink. Corso looked at her, this was getting uncomfortable.
"That's none of your concern. And it doesn't matter anymore. It stays between him and me" He said. Dame Simbai was about to say something when Corso's transmitter beeped. He waved goodbye as he left to meet with Sonny.
The Black Manta flew towards Akillian. The Obia Moon ambassadors had decided to come along with the pirates, in an attempt to dig up more information on the deceased from the protocol office on Akillian. After his pardon, Sonny still had some issues with being seen on the planet he had caused so much devastation to. He and the pirates had decided to stay onboard while things were prepared for the walk to the burial site. D'Jok, Tia, Mei, Sonny, Maya, Corso, Bennett and Artie had a special mission ahead. One that was long overdue. Corso left the controls to Bennett at the bridge. as he went to find Sonny. He found him in the lounge, reading the letter again. Corso silently waited for him to finish. He could litterally tell the guilt was eating Sonny from inside where he sat, carefully reading his late wifes last words to him. Corso hoped he found the answers he sought, reading the letter again.
"Are you feeling okay Sonny? You've been distant since you got that letter," Corso said Softly, looking at the papers Sonny carefully folded. Sonny looked at him with a sad smile.
"I'm fine Corso, just going through the motions. Ending a part of my life that has been the source of guilt for so long. It feels so monumental, and yet, liberating at the same time. I have never been faced with something like this before, its hard to come up with a plan for how to handle it" He said as he put the letter inside his jacket again. Corso nodded. He could relate. He placed his hands on Sonny's shoulders.
"You have nothing to feel guilty for Sonny. I know you, you did everything in your power to avoid this. Helena would want you to be happy. It's what I like to think Noomi wanted for me." Corso sighed. Sonny looked at him.
"It's strange how our stories are so similar. Except I got lucky, and you lost everything." he said silently. As he turned,Sonny placed his hands on Corso's shoulders.
"I'm not going to pretend to understand how the Flux wars affected you Corso.I did not experience it like you did. Just know that I'm here for you if you need me. If you feel ready to unload some of the trauma, I am here to listen" Sonny said with a serious look in his eyes. Corso smiled.
"Just keep yourself safe Sonny, that's all I ask. You're still our leader. I get the feeling you're still not safe. Please. For your family, stay safe. We have come too far now for you to loose it all again." Corso said. Sonny smiled.
"You're right. The changes will take some time to get used to but they're necessary. Let's get to Akilian and make sure Helena is given the burial she deserves."
The snow was falling on Akillian as the small group reached a clearing where Maya pointed to a specific area.
"She's buried here. It's such a beautiful place. It was at least, before all the snow turned into an icy grave" Maya said. Sonny nodded. Corso took out a device that measured the density in the ground. Mei held the baby while Maya held the Akilian Star Norata had gotten them, a star he had grown to fit the conditions on Akillian, to decorate a gravesite. Artie and Bennett had started to dig where Corso indicated the grave site was. As they reached the frozen soil under the snow, they checked again. Corso nodded to Sonny.
"This is the place," He said. Sonny nodded before he turned to Maya.
"You're sure this is her?" He asked. Maya nodded. Sonny placed a hand on her arm. The pirates used a tool that helped heat the ground soft enough to be dug up. After a good half hours of digging, Corso signaled they had reached the body. Sonny visibly braced himself. It had been in the frozen ground for so long, when they opened the cloth it was buried in, the body was still intact. Mei and Tia shuddered. Seeing a dead body was eerie for them. Corso and Bennett carefully lifted Helena's body into the coffin that had been brought along for this, before they let D'Jok and Sonny approach it. D'Jok looked at the frozen body. This was his real mother. She almost looked like she was sleeping. A tear escaped his eye.
"Mom… " He whispered. Sonny didn't say a thing as D'Jok took off his bracelet and placed it in the casket, his hand on their sons shoulder said it all. She had asked him to find their son, and to help him remember her. Now, Sonny was ready to start that job.
"Dad, it is your turn." He said sadly. Sonny nodded, as he felt his sons hand on his arm, as he prepapred. Sonny stepped forwards. Over twenty-five years had passed since he last saw her.
"Helena..." he whispered. The guilt came back in full force as he dropped to his knees. D'Jok wanted to reach out but was stopped by Corso.
"No, He needs to do this, for himself" He softly said before he looked at his friend. They couldn't hear Sonny's words to his wife but his actions spoke volumes. Sonny took off his bracelet and put it in the coffin. Corso saw Sonny take off his gloves and carefully pulling the wedding ring off his finger, also placing it in the coffin. Corso felt a tear form in his natural eye. Sonny was finally letting go. After so long, he finally could bring his own sorrow and guilt to an end.
"You deserve to be happy Sonny." He whispered.
Sonny remained on his knees, carefully placing his hand on hers. As he sat there, it was like she spoke to him. She was telling him to let go. Start a new life with Callie and be a good father to D'Jok. And tell their grand daughter of her. Sonny smiled for a moment.
"You always had so much compassion Honey. I'm so grateful for the time we had. Rest in peace,Helena, my Akillian Rose," He said quietly as he stood up and nodded for the coffin to be closed and reburied.
On their way back, Corso checked his messages. They were all on shcedule. Now, he was curious as to how Sonny planned to go about matters with Keiran.
"Everything's all clear Sonny. What's the next step of your plan? "He asked. Sonny smiled slightly, a lot more relaxed now that the burial was done. Corso could have sworn he could see the guilt lift from Sonny's shoulders physically. And it was a welcome sight.
"Come with me Corso. I will show you what I mean" He said as he took Corso to the back of the ship. Corso was puzzled.
"Why are we here for? There are the vaults. Personal stuff." he asked. Corso was slightly worried. He noticed the vault they stoood in front of,was Sonny's personal storage space. That worried him. For Sonny to come here, it had to be something serious.
"I'm not going to like this, am I?" He asked, sounding nervous. Sonny smiled and shook his head.
"Relax Corso, I'm just going to show you something that may be a bit difficult to take in. And I need you to prepapre for this, as you will be the only one that knows of its use. It's something that was found on sublevel twelve. It might help things. It just may be a shock for you to see it. I need you to be mentally prepared for this" He said as he opened the vault and signaled for Corso to step inside. Once inside, Sonny closed the door behind them and put on the lights. Corso jumped when he saw the content of an open crate against the wall.
"What is this?" He asked. Corso looked at the crate with an exact copy of Sonny inside. A clone. Sonny smiled reassuringly.
"It's the clone Bleylock had made of me. He did with Clamp too. I'm not sure why though. The information doesn't get transferred over. There is no way to access its memory, to see what its purpose was" He stated. Corso frowned.
"Maybe he got lonely. You were close with him once, may have been a mad mans way to deal with loneliness, make a clone of the one he thought he loved, or rather, was obsessed with, to make life more bareable" He said. Sonny nodded as he realized what Corso was getting at.
"We will never know Corso. But now, My clone will serve a purpose for the Pirates. It will act as my body double. You'll be the only one that knows about this. To pull my plan off, it's crucial that only you know. The clone will have to act as captain, but you will pull the strings." He said. Corso nodded.
"Understood." He said. He looked at the clone.
"This is going to be challenging. The clone looks exactly like you.I am not sure how comfortable I feel with Bleylock knowing you that well, that he could clone you from memory" He mused. Sonny chuckled.
"Not completely Corso. there are minute things that differ, but this will help correct that." He said as he walked over to the clone. He pulled out a memory stick from inside his jacket and found a hidden slot on the clone's neck, where the information from the memory stick could be transferred to him.
"This will give him the memory it needs to fool Keiran. One thing will differ though, a very significant thing. wich is why I got a solution ready for it" Sonny stated.
"He doesn't have flux, right?" Corso stated. Sonny nodded.
"Right, but I did create a device that will give an illusion of him having so. It is harmless, just lights, but still, the illusion will give the time needed to act." He explained. Corso smiled.
"It's going to give Miller a headache." He said. Sonny grinned.
"My Flux is why Miller wants me taken again. To create new Flux devices, he needs a source of power. A Flux Master probably gives more than enough in his eyes" He said thoughtfully. Corso nodded.
"What about your son? Is he reaching mastery of The breath of Akillian any time soon?" He asked. Sonny looked at him. This concern for his son was touching, but he had to set the record straight.
"He's almost ready to reach category five Corso. That is still not Mastery, but an increased understanding of how it works and how to adjust the use. I just hope he's up to the challenge of handling the Breath of Akillian at this stage. It's been a long time since The Breath of Akillian was at this level. He needs time to understand and learn how to master it but he still has a ways to go. So he is not going to be a flux master any time soon" Sonny said. Corso nodded.
"Is the exhibition match a chance to look into matters more closely for you?" He asked. Sonny looked at Corso with a smile.
"The Flux society asked me to look into it yes. If we can't stop Miller or Bleylock's son, we may be thrown into another Galactik War." Sonny said as he focused on the clone again.
"The clone will have my basic knowledge and a little bit of insignificant portion of my research. I made sure he can't do real harm by mixing fluxes." Sonny smiled as he told Corso the rest of the plan. His right-hand man smiled.
"This is going to work and we will lock up that scum for good."
On Genesis, Solaris and Callie helped Zarind grow stronger. Sonny was skeptical about Solaris' idea to boost the Paladin scout though the blue energy capsule she had shown him, but didn't have a good reason not to go with it, as long as she could recharge herself later. He asked her to make sure she had the energy for the process. The Paladin scout looked concerned at Solaris as she explained what happened on their home planet.
"We need the Armor of the Golden Paladin Solaris. There is no other way to do this. But, the location of the armor is hard to reach, not to mention, you need a non paladin partner too, one with the needed skillset to give the proper boost." He stated. Solaris nodded.
"I've trained for that mission since I was born. That said,you are right, I need a partner. A non paladin. And that is an issue. I got one in mind, but with our abillities,I am not sure it will be easy to do. I already know how Sonny will feel about it. He may shut this down before it is even proposed. It depends on if he is as overprotective of his right hand man as Corso is with him" She said. Zarind nodded.
"This partner won't be a Paladin Solaris,we can forget about that. We have always known that. He has to have some abillities that we dont possess on our planet. I believe you need the skills of a soldier. More precisely, an elite soldier, one whom is used to doing things alone as well as in a team, and also knows how to survive in hostile enviroments" He said. Solaris nodded. she realised whom he meant. "You're thinking of Corso. I'm not sure Sonny will allow that. There is a special bond between them, and although Sonny may not show it as much as Corso does, he is still very protective of Corso. He may say no, and if so, we are in a bind" she said. Zarind disagreed.
"He has no choice but to say yes, Solaris. It's the only reason Corso is still alive now. I cant say much about that time, but the leader they had back then, she knew when Corso was rescued, he had a special purpose. There are pieces he needs to discover during that journey which will save our kingdom, and bring healing to him. Corso also needs the truth and this journey is the best way for him to get it. Sonny was chosen for one big purpose, one he has not been told of yet, as he is not ready for it yet, Corso was chosen as his protector, but not even he knows it all" Zarind said. Solaris was getting frustrated "How do we tell them this Zarind? We need the Pirates on this and I doubt Sonny would let Corso go on such a dangerous mission on his own. It is a big ask, we cant fault them if the answer is a flat out no" she said. Zarind was about to speak when he saw Sonny and Corso in the doorway. Sonny had his arms crossed. And Corso also looked like he wanted some answers. The two pirates clearly did not like being talked about without being informed. Sonny cleared his throat before he spoke.
"You two better start explaining all this. I am not saying flat out no, but I want the details before I give a definate answer"
In Sonny and Callie's living room, all of the Pirates were gathered, Coran and Zoonia would join them through a video link from Stellar Unix. The mood was uneasy. Solaris and Zarind had been caught red handed speaking of involving pirate personell in paladin business behind Sonny and Corsos back, and this had not gone down well with the leading duo. Corso drank some coffee where he sat, next to Sonny, he was having a bad feeling about all of this. Sonny sat next to him with an expression that demanded answers, the sooner the better. Coran and Zoonia looked tired and worn.
"How is the situation on Stellar Unix now?You two look exhausted "Sonny asked. Coran looked at him.
"Not good Sonny. We managed to set up a temporary base of operations in the safety of the nothern mountains. So far, we are undetected. As for the status, The King and Queen are still imprisoned at Castle Paladia, we are still working to get eyes on them, and worse, Miller has learned about the Golden Armor. He wants to destroy it. The only one that can make use of it, is Solaris. And he now knows this, so Solaris is in grave danger if she is seen here" Coran reported. Corso nodded.
"Figures. They all act like this. Nothing new. What more can you tell us?" He asked. Zoonia responded by sharing a video.
'Solaris wanted for murder. Reward; Twenty Million Standard Credits.' the poster said.
Solaris looked less than impressed.
"Really? That's it? Nothing about whom the victim is, or where it supposedly happened. Or is there a video for that that you have yet to show me. I feel offended by this" She snorted. Sonny placed a hand on her shoulder.
"That price is even bigger than mine Solaris. He really wants you out of the can put you in some real danger. I made a mistake once that caused the deaths of many, but I have never been charged with murder. But still, It would be an idea to mask yourself now, before getting into public places. Technoid may not have jurisdiction to outright arrest you, it depends if your poster is circulated. How many people know about this?" He asked. Zoonia smiled.
"Only our region so far, Coran managed to block it being sent any further for now. That might change though. Listen to Sonny Solaris, he has done this for years. his advice will help you stay in safety for now" She warned them. Solaris looked at them.
"What does this mean?" She wanted to know. Coran looked at her.
"You need to disguise yourself Solaris, and lay low. I'm sure Sonny will be able to help you." He said. Sonny nodded.
"It's taken care of. We'll take the Black Manta to Stellar Unix in a few days to assist. Solaris goes with. But in disguise. Is there a landing area near your temprary base where we can safely land and get to you undetected. I would rather not raise Millers alarms" He informed. Zoonia nodded.
"Solaris needs to come despite the risk. The Paladins need her to lead them. The Golden Armor must be retrieved. We will have to talk about the details when you get here." She said. Sonny nodded.
"The Pirates need to split into two teams. We have another task to take care of too. Corso will lead the Task force comimg to Stellar Unix, I will stay here on Genesis, to continue the hunt for Bleylocks son and where he is hiding here, from safe distance off course" He said, as he noticed Corso looking at him. Zoonia nodded.
"You know about Bleylock's son then?" She asked. Sonny nodded in confirmation.
"Do you know more about his identity? It was a rather unpleasant discovery, to say the least "He asked. Coran nodded.
"We do. Aaraya, if you please." He stepped aside to make room for a tall, thin woman with long blonde hair. She looked at Sonny.
"I'm truly sorry for my son's doing." She started. "He raised him to hate you Sonny." She said. Corso nodded. Sonny felt nauseous. Aaraya...he had seen her before, at his own wedding to Helena, Bleylock had married just weeks prior to him. Now, he had the chance to learn more, learn just wheter he had changed for the better as a result, though he doubted it, or the worse, wich he saw as far more likely.
"I don't know where my son is now. But I do know that he will never stop hunting you. He believes you killed his father. This is what his fathers diaries and his fathers family told him, as a young and impressionable child." She said. "If he isn't stopped, he'll do his best to fulfill what his father couldn't do. And if he succeeds, your son will be the one loosing his remaining parent"
A/N: Pieces are coming together. The Shadow Behind the throne may soon become much more active. Will things get better? Or worse? What will the trial reveal? All of this in upcoming chapters. Thank you to Paranoidgirl for the beta reading. Let me know what you think of this chapter.