Commander Abbot once again makes her way down the sterile hallway lined with bolted doors, arms folded primly behind her back. She walks up to the same door as last time, though a different guard now stands in front of it. "Has the package been delivered to our guest?" she inquires clinically, no emotion present in her voice.

He nods. "Several hours ago. Even if he resisted at first, I doubt he made it this long."

"Excellent." She nods and he unlocks the door with the code and allows her to step inside the room set up for the Lone Ranger, door clicking shut behind her. He doesn't even seem to notice though, pouring over a folder on his bed. Next to him sits a stack of about ten more of the same type of folder, each pretty large. "I see you got the reading material we sent you," Abbot earns his attention, making her way towards him. "I apologize you had to find out like this, but there's just no easier way to show you."

"No," he shakes his head, looking back down. "I needed to know this. Everyone needs to know this. How does no one back in my world talk about this?" he questions, flashing a picture at her. Abbot examines the shot, one taken from among the tree of the preserve. It depicts Lori, who looks slightly younger, viciously thrusting her sword into the shoulder of what looks to be a Yeti crying out in pain. Her face in the photo is one of grim determination, and even a bit of triumph at besting him.

Abbot takes the photo to look at it closer, and he starts glancing through the other folders at rapid pace, each one making him grow angrier than the last. "You know, it was one of you who gave her the sword," Abbot feels the need to mention. "Merlin gifted it to her pretty quickly after she found the book. Mulan trained her in how to use it. Back where you're from, she's a great hero worthy of honor and respect. Someone who is protecting the lot of you. But it seems she has ways of keeping the darker stories to herself when it comes to what the characters experience here."

"I know heroes aren't perfect, but for someone to have this much darkness and have no one know about it. And there's no other way to describe this other than darkness." He gestures to another photo, this one seeming to depict Lori shoving a fighting Jim Hawkins out a window from the way it was taken. "She has all the power when we come to her needing to come home, and all I see are abuses of it. All I see are people getting hurt because of her. And her friends, they've just been letting it happen since the beginning."

"It's truly unfortunate," Abbot agrees, nodding solemnly. He reaches the last folder. "That one especially."

He opens it and reads the side. "Caleb Dean." He sits in silence a moment as he reads the file, eyebrows moving closer in ager throughout, before rising to his feet with his fists clenched firmly at his side. "We have to do something. We can't let this continue. She should not have the book. Someone else outside of her and her friends need to take control of this situation. Actually help these characters like is intended."

Abbot nods, holding the photo out to him. "I agree. But unfortunately there's only one way we can do that."

He just looks at her in determination. "Tell me."

XXX

Meanwhile, Charlie Prescott navigates his way to the front desk of the library with a large pile of books in hand. He deposits them on the counter and goes to grab his I.D. from his back pocket.

"Doing some light reading?" He looks up to see it is Ethan Sullivan behind the counter, holding up the book on Developmental Biology before scanning it.

Charlie shrugs. "The class isn't going as in depth as I would like, so I thought I'd see what else I could find. Plus, if I have a greater knowledge base it makes it easier to help those who are struggling with the material."

"How old are you again?"

A question the normally he would flinch at, but Charlie instead just looks proud as he reports, "Fifteen. Though I'm turning sixteen in three days." He hands him the I.D. once all the books are scanned, Ethan scanning that as well.

"Wow. Good for you. You are more ambitious than I ever was." He pauses a moment looking at the screen as Charlie blushes a bit at the compliment before pulling himself back together. "Umm, I'm sorry but it says you have accumulated a late fee. Library policy is you can't check anything else out until it's paid unfortunately.

Charlie is baffled at this. "Really? I don't- I've never turned in a book late in my life. Are you sure?"

Ethan humors him and scans it again. "Sorry, buddy. It says here there's a late fee for returning The Beginner's Guide to Origami two months late."

Charlie instantly understands, sighing. He puts his backpack on the counter and begins digging through it, a bit embarrassed. "I suppose that's what I get for letting my best friend borrow my I.D. in a pinch." He pulls out a wallet. "How much is it?"

"Eighteen dollars and thirty cents. I'm hoping this best friend of yours has some good qualities that make up for this?"

"She does," Charlie assures him. "She's actually pretty much the greatest person I know."

"Those are some big words. Do I know her?"

Charlie pauses a moment, deciding how to proceed and honestly quite surprised he doesn't know already. "Yeah, I think so," he goes with as he holds out a twenty. "Her name is Lori. Lori Fitzgerald."

The effect is immediate. Ethan's eyes widen and he almost takes a small step back. He does try to recover though, scratching his beard. "Lori Fitzgerald. The name sure does ring a bell. So, I'm guessing you know a thing or two about me then?" he inquires, a little ashamed of himself.

Charlie feels no need to make him feel and guiltier. "You might have come up a few times, yeah." He puts the money on the counter only for Ethan to instead turn to the computer and type something.

"Don't worry about it. I'm waiving the fee."

"Are you sure? I'm more than willing to-"

"Listen, let's not beat around the bush. I'm sure you're aware that I was a Grade A asshole to Lori our last meeting."

Charlie shrugs. "You got her ice cream though. That's pretty much the easiest way to solve anything with her. Plus, trust me, she's not too hung up on you right now. Things worked out the way they were meant to. She hopes you and your girlfriend… that you just keep being you." Ethan snorts and starts typing. "Are you sure? I don't want you to get into trouble or anything. I'm more than willing- "

Ethan waves at him. "Trust me, it's no problem. The librarian doesn't check my transactions at this point three years in anyway." He slides the money back across the counter as Charlie reaches for it so it lands on top of Ethan's. Ethan clearly thinks nothing of this but Charlie blushes for a moment before moving the money quickly to his back pocket. He gets a quick grip as Ethan finishes typing. "You are all set."

"Thank you," Charlie smiles, sincere as he scoops his books up. "I really appreciate it."

"Don't mention it," Ethan winks at him. "Have a great one, kid." He turns to start shelving some books on a cart behind the counter and Charlie stares for a moment too long as he turns back. "Something else I can do for you?"

Charlie sputters, clearly embarrassed. "Nope. Just… mentally preparing myself for carrying these all the way back to my dorm. Bye." He practically starts running out the door.

"Bye! Happy birthday!"

Charlie exits the library and takes a seat in the bench corner Lori frequented once upon a time. He lets out a deep breath and nervously puts his head in his hands. After a minute, he stands back up and makes his way towards the dorm with a resumed sense of normalcy in his demeanor- or at least it seems that way to everyone he passes.

XXX

So Follow Me Down

Lori Fitzgerald stands with a glowing Disney Encyclopedia, eyes narrowing. She makes her sword appear and pulls out her phone.

Where To?

Charlie Prescott examines his map and grabs his flashlight from the closet.

Outta This Town

Hannah Frost is typing away at her computer when she receives the message and leaps off to grab her coat.

With You

Ben Prescott adjusts his tie as he wheels himself out the door.

Girl, You're Movin Way Too Slow

Kaity Klingbeil is drawing pictures of the group absently in her dorm room when her phone vibrates, instantly grabbing her attention.

So Follow Me Down

Michael Harms grabs his First Aid backpack and throws it on his shoulders, waving to Jen and Sara as he goes.

Which Way?

Finch Hale is in class with Robert and Karen when she puts the two fingers to her temple and her eyes glaze.

Down, Down, Down

Rachel Ellis is performing onstage when her phone rumbles in her boot.

I'll Show You Around

Andrew Parker runs out the door, nearly tripping, removing his magician's cap from his head.

Okay

Jess Timmermans strides out of the Art Building at her own pace, clearly annoyed.

There's a Place We Gotta Go

Follow Me, Follow Me

Fa La La La La

Lori, Charlie, Hannah, Michael, Ben, Kaity, Finch, Rachel, Andrew, and Jess are all running through the preserve in a tight group, eyes looking every which way.

Follow Me, Follow Me

Fa La La La La

Lori comes to an abrupt halt and the others crash into her, sending them all to the ground.

Lori Disney? (Not Likely!)

Episode Nine: Like He's Trying to Speak to Me

XXX

Kaity Klingbeil sits in her hospital bed, staring out the large window to the right with a frown firmly etched on her face, mind clearly in another place altogether.

"Kaity, hey," a voice finally reaches her, and she turns to see the warm smile of Andrew Parker sitting next to her. He's holding a deck of cards in his hand. "You've got to keep your eyes on me, otherwise the cheating accusations are a lot easier in the long run." He then flips a card so it rolls down his shoulder to his other hand.

"Sorry," Kaity apologizes sincerely. She glances toward the window again, holding up her cell phone in her clenched fist. "I'm just… my parents are going to be calling soon. And usually I can work my way around them well enough- some lying through my teeth and some honest admissions about how I'm constantly a work in progress. We all cry and then they tell me to call them every day for the next week. Soon enough we all move on with our lives. Rinse and repeat."

Andrew shuffles the deck like a pro. "Then what has you worked up this time if you normally fare so well?" He holds the cards out, she picks one before putting it back.

"Well, this morning my older sister called to check in on me."

Andrew shuffles the deck again. "Oh! The humanity!"

Kaity gives him a look. "Andrew, I haven't talked to my older sister in at least five years since she moved out with her orthodontist fiancé. I'm on rocky terms with all my siblings, but her… she's resented me since my parents missed her big gymnastics competition to take 'The Bipolar One' to the hospital. She never lets me forget it, and frankly by the time I started college she won all the other siblings over to her side."

"I'm sure you're exaggerating." Andrew starts shuffling the cards into decks of three. "I come from a family with a few siblings myself, and no matter how crazy we drove one another we always loved each other. You can count on no one to have your back like a sibling. Pick a deck."

"You don't understand," Kaity argues. "I didn't get invited to her wedding, because she thought it would be pointless to reserve a seat for someone who might not be in the mood to come. Meanwhile, all my other sisters got to be bridesmaids. The one on the left."

Andrew grimaces, splitting that pile into three after moving the other two aside. "So, big deal that she called. That much is very clear now. What did she have to say?"

Kaity sits up a little bit more, clearly wanting to drive this point home. "Nothing much, just that she was worried about me." She stares at Andrew like this is hugely significant, but he just looks back in confusion. "Andrew, if my sister is calling that means my parents must have called her. Which means we're not on the normal path we usually walk. And I don't think I can handle anything outside of normal right now. Speaking of, right."

He takes the right pile. "They're worried about you. We all are right now, Ben especially. This semester seems to be on the rougher side for you right now. Honestly, Ben told us what you saw before he brought you in. You have a lot of guilt coursing through a very tiny body that your brain is refusing to let you handle in a healthy manner." He pulls out a pencil and balances it on the bedside table he's working with.

"Well, my parents coming here sure isn't going to help matters at all. God, I hope I can prevent them from coming here. I will literally die of suffocation. My brain is stressed enough with this scholarship and everything else without having to appease my folks into thinking I'm in good hands here and don't need to go back home." He positions the cards on top of the pencil and slams them down so they all go through it, one sticking in the middle while the rest travel through to the table. "Oh, and by the way this is all in confidence. Lori and Ben better not come bursting in here repeating my words back to me."

Andrew gives her a look. "Like I'd go running to Ben. Even if I did, he'd think it was all part of my master plan." He pulls the one card left off the pencil, and runs his hand over it. He holds up a fully together card, hole now missing. "Is this your card?"

Kaity's jaw literally drops. "Wow. Yeah." He nods in triumph, throwing the rest of the cards in the air and making her laugh. "I don't even… Lori is a lucky girl."

He snorts, phone buzzing. "Kaity."

"It's going to happen, Parker. Heed my words." He looks at the message, smile appearing on his face. "In fact, judging by the Lori Smile I would say duty is calling?" He nods, before looking up at her to say something. "You're fine. Go."

He rises and gives her a quick air hug. "It's going to be fine. You can handle whatever that call is going to throw at you. Just focus on getting better right now. The rest will work itself out."

"Thank you," she reciprocates with an earnest smile. "Thanks for visiting and for the trick. It always somehow makes me feel better."

"Good to hear it." He starts for the door after scooping up the cards on the floor, letting Kaity contemplate something before he's out the door.

"You're right," she calls before he's completely gone. "Siblings… they do always have each other's backs." He catches her meaning and gives her a large, warm smile before heading out. She falls back in her bed with a huff, staring at the phone in her hand.

XXX

A short while later, Jess Timmermans is wandering through the preserve with Charlie, Hannah Frost, and Lori Fitzgerald herself. Her attention thought is perhaps a little too focused on the clipboard she's holding and scribbling on rather than where she is going at the moment.

"We have the primary speaker lined up of course, but I'm wondering if we should have a back-up waiting in the wings." Lori pulls her abruptly out of the direct path of a tree with an exasperated sigh, but if the redhead notices she doesn't say anything. "Because otherwise the chances are really high that my dad's going to take it upon himself to step up and say something if he's a no show. Then we will officially never hear the end of it because it will somehow be the greatest speech ever composed despite him making it up on the spot."

She flips through a few papers, continuing once she finds something. "So maybe have Dr. John waiting- he seems like he'd be good to have in a pinch. Maybe we could reach out to him in an e-mail about meeting with us tomorrow… or you. Maybe it should just be you." Lori gives Hannah a pointed look, but her roommate merely shakes her head. "No, it should be both of us. Strong, united front. And- "

"Jess," Hannah cut in politely while she can. "Maybe we should save this for when we get back to the room? We are kind of… in the middle of something."

Her Vice president glances up merely long enough to fix her with a very unamused expression before returning to her notes. "Excuse me for using the limited time we have considering the fact that in three days' times we have the first big event of your Presidency. An event that we only have the basest of plans for- all taken care of by me I feel the need to bring up. Especially when I've done my best to work around your projects and classes and… this insanity. And especially when this was originally the 'something' you had promised we tackle this afternoon before a book decided to glow and once again ruin any and all plans."

"Sometimes I wonder why I keep you around President's Daughter," Lori feels the need to comment. "But then you talk about the book like that and I think finally someone who's on my side. Someone who gets it!"

Jess snaps a bit. "Don't relate to me! You're not allowed to say anything to me until you drop that ridiculous name you for some reason insist on putting on me."

Hannah sighs. "I hear you. I do. It has been rough to find time with the characters and Kaity being in the hospital." She notices the face Jess makes. "Not the time.

Jess shrugs. "I wasn't going to say anything. I have made my dislike of Ms. Klingbeil clear enough that it doesn't need to be dwelled upon any further."

Hannah just rolls her eyes before trying to get back on topic. "And I promise I'm not trying to pawn off the duties I promised to take on to you. I'm sorry if it seems that way. I sincerely will try harder, Jess."

Jess looks at her before giving a nod. "Good to hear. Sorry if I came off as less than professional… to you," she adds with a pointed look at Lori. She can't help but notice Charlie walking distracted next to his best friend, mind somewhere else entirely. "This fundraiser has a long-standing tradition of success and I just want to make sure we follow in those footsteps for both our sakes."

"What still needs to get done?" Hannah tries to take an interest, ignoring Lori's huff.

Jess bites her lip as she looks at pages. "Cake still needs to be finalized, the service providing our carpeting needs to be paid, e-mails need to be sent to all faculty as a reminder, food needs to be cleared through administration for the caterer since apparently that's our job and not theirs, and we need to get more volunteers for the events."

"We can help with that," Charlie offers, snapping from his reverie for a moment. "Sign Lori and I up. Plus, I'm sure you can ask everyone else."

"I was hoping to include the whole student body and not just 'the Companions' as they are so ridiculously called. Hannah needs to be reaching a larger audience of participation than just her personal close friends." She goes back to her work when Hannah elbows her hard. She looks up to see Charlie looking a bit crestfallen at her rejection and makes a quick reflection on how to handle this. 'I will sign the two of you up though. Just you two though. Ideally it would be just you, but it seems the term package deal is best applied here."

"It is," Charlie agrees, smiling but not fully.

Lori looks at him. "Are you sure? It is your birthday after all. I'm sure we could think of other ways to spend the day… where we'd be appreciated."

He nods. "I'm sure. I want to do it. We can do something before or after."

"Or both," Lori volunteers with a smile.

"Sure," Charlie agrees weakly. Lori notices and seems ready to comment.

"Maybe you and I should head back Jess. There does seem to be a lot- "

"I feel we should split up to cover more ground," Jess volunteers suddenly to Hannah's surprise. "That way we will cover more ground and get this over with faster. As you heard we have a lot to accomplish. I will take Charlie and go this way."

Lori crosses her arms. "President's Daughter, one thing is an absolute. No one separates- "

Jess just blows past her and starts dragging Charlie without a second thought. "Let us know if you find anything." They verge off out of sight, leaving a flabbergasted Lori and Hannah in their wake. Lori then gives Hannah quite the look.

"Like I said, really wonder why we're keeping her around sometimes."

Hannah starts in the other direction. "I'm sorry, but you're the one who shook her hand."

Lori shakes the book as she follows. "Because of you. All because of you."

Meanwhile, Jess and Charlie continue down their path in silence. "Listen, I don't care if you tell her or not," Jess catches his attention after a moment. "I really don't. But you are doing an awful job of acting like you're fine. Anyone could see through it, let alone the… imp you have somehow allowed into your innermost circle. So, I have bought you this time to get your act together before she starts asking questions. Figure out what you want to say so you can stop dragging out this nonsense. No one has time for it."

Charlie looks worried and partly genuinely confused. "I don't- what are we even talking about? Lori knows everything."

"Sure. Three years and change means all has been discussed at length." She finally puts the clipboard at her side to give him her full attention. "I was in the library this morning, making a point of ignoring your presence to leave. I had eyes though so I noticed."

"There was nothing to notice. I checked out a book."

"You checked out more than a book," she fires back and he instantly goes red. "That might not have been the most sensitive way to state that. But at least now it is out in the open."

"I'm not… I don't… that was nothing. It was nothing at all."

Jess rolls her eyes. "Sure. For the record, I don't care. Check out whoever you want to check out. Can't fix that any more than I can fix what's broken on me. It's who you are. And maybe that's just part of it, which is fine too. But it is a part. And something, for the record, I'm sure Lori wouldn't care about in the slightest either. But again, your choice if you want to tell her." He goes to say something. "I'm not giving you advice. I don't have the time or the effort. I did my part right here. I'm not doing anything else. You need to figure that out for yourself." She comes to a stop and looks around. "Dead end. Let's get back."

She starts back the way they came, Charlie quickly falling into step beside her. "Thanks Jess." She doesn't say anything, but he seems to take that just as positively as if she had.

XXX

The next afternoon, Michael Harms is sitting in the living area, head in his hand as he leans against the coffee table. The other hand is scribbling notes furiously in a medical journal of some kind, that date he is writing under displaying these are thoughts from something just over a week ago. He finishes whatever he's writing and with a hand through his hair turns the page to get started on the next one, taking a long deep breath to steady himself mentally.

He is interrupted when the door swings open and Ben Prescott rolls himself in, twin expression of anxiety clear on his face. He clearly hasn't been sleeping and his tie even looks a little less crisp than usual. He wheels past Michael with a tried wave to his bedroom and Michael debates a minute before closing his notebook and following him, poking his head in.

"Hey. You okay, Prescott?"

Ben nods. "Yeah. Nothing to worry about. Just… Kaity stuff and… other stuff. I can handle it." He isn't convincing in the slightest, but Michael doesn't push. "Would you mind driving me over to see he later, Harms?"

He glances at the notebook, hesitant. "Umm… I think Andrew's planning on heading over there. Maybe you can ride with him?"

"Harms, I'm asking you if you'll come with me. I could… I could really use the friend. And if you're worried about Lori we can have her wait to go searching until we come back."

Michael tiredly nods. "Of course. Give me an hour or two and I'll be ready."

"Thanks." Ben looks him over though. "Are you sure you're okay? You look a little off yourself."

The blonde forces a warm smile and nods. "Definitely. All good." Again, Ben clearly doesn't believe him but also doesn't push either. Michael returns to the living room and is about to sit on when there is a knocking at the door. He opens it to reveal Rachel Ellis.

"Michael and/or Ben?"

Michael helps her inside by grabbing her arm. "You've got the right room."

"Didn't a minute ago. Must have miscounted. Almost let some sensitive information slip. Almost being the key word." Ben wheels into the living area at the sound of her voice. "Is Lori here? She wasn't in her room and this seemed like the next best spot."

"No. I think she went to see Kaity with Charlie since we're done with classes for the day," Michael answers expertly.

"Okay, so driving may be why she's not picking up. I'll just have to wait." She turns her attention in the guys' direction. "I have a lead on our mysterious character. I was exiting my scholarship interview, which I nailed by the way, and there were these students talking about the pool being closed. Apparently, yesterday afternoon it suddenly turned this much deeper blue color. And only one or two people were there, but they swear it got deeper to the point they couldn't find the bottom. Plus… they swear something was in there with them."

"The character's in the pool," Ben deduces from her words.

"Bingo! They closed it off and cited some chemical must be in there- explaining the color and what they saw- but I think it may warrant some investigation and sneaking on our part."

Michael turns to Ben. "Who do you think it could be?"

"If the bottom has magically gone missing? A lot of things I'd rather not deal with right now," he admits. He starts for the bedroom again. "See you tonight, Rachel."

"Better pack your swimsuit."

Ben pauses. "Somehow I doubt I'll be going in."

Rachel shrugs, not bothered by his comment. "If it's any consolation, I wasn't planning on packing mine either." Ben doesn't reply but merely disappears around the corner. "He's in a good mood." Michael goes to defend him, but she doesn't give him time. "I'm going to let the others know. See you tonight."

"Of course," Michael agrees as he holds the door for her. She exits and makes her way down the hallway, rolling her eyes.

"'Glad the interview went well, Rachel.' 'Why thank you!'" she mutters to herself. "'I appreciate your words of friendship and support.' 'Anything else happen today you want to talk about?' 'Glad you asked. I kissed a boy and now he's avoiding me so there's that.' 'That sucks.' 'I know. Thank you for the sympathy.'" She groans, looking upward. "How is it you're surrounded by people but you feel like you can't talk to any of them right now? It's ridiculous. You're being ridiculous. It's fine. Everything's fine. Just a bad day all around it seems."

XXX

That night, the pool of the sport's complex sits completely empty and silent without a light to be found anywhere. That is until there is the loud banging of someone trying to force a door open, no sign of stealth present in how they're going about things. The door finally swings open but no one emerges for a minute. "Cameras are cut," Hannah's voice echoes through the large room.

Moments later, Lori emerges first with the book under one arm and her sword firmly gripped in the other. Charlie is right behind her with Michael, Hannah, Rachel, Ben, Jess, Andrew, and Finch Hale bringing up the rear. "Well, this isn't creepy," Jess voices. "Maybe we should have the fundraiser here."

They gather towards the water at the shallow end, Lori shining a flashlight that barely pierces the almost black water. "Well, something's definitely fishy… probably literally." They all stare out at the length of the pool when Hannah points to the far corner.

"I think I saw something move over there." Lori nods, taking inventory of what's available to her and noticing something directly across the pool from her.

"Okay. I'm going to head to that lifeguard stand on the other side to try and get a better look." She makes her way to the bulkhead, a white dock that separates the pool into two halves made of white slats and will quickly lead her to the side she needs to be on. "If anyone's following, be careful. These can be slippery." She cautiously starts her way across and everyone but Ben starts to follow.

"I can't get up there. I'll keep watch from this side." Lori nods and Hannah tosses him a flashlight. He notices Rachel about to climb up and grabs her wrist. "Hey, it's alright. You can stay over here with me."

She pulls her wrist away indignantly. "I'm fine! It's a straight line and I'll just follow their footsteps. I'm not incapable of helping." He lets her go as she steps on the bulkhead, the others already a good way across. Reluctantly, he accepts her decision and pulls back to get a better look at the water.

Lori has swiftly crossed and scales the stand, shining her light into the corner Hannah pointed out. "The problem is we have no clue how deep this goes. They could really be hiding." She hands the flashlight to Michael and cups her hands over her mouth. "Hey! My name is Lori Fitzgerald! Maybe you've heard of me! Maybe you haven't! Either way is fine!" Charlie notices Rachel just getting started when everyone else is over and makes his way back on the bulkhead to help. "I know you're probably scared right now since you have no clue where you are! But I'm here to help you! I can send you home! Just come on over and we can get started!" She waits, but nothing happens.

Charlie has reached Rachel and puts a supporting arm under hers. "Thanks," she smiles at him.

"I've met other like you before!" Lori keeps shouting. "They might be friends of yours! Ariel! Flounder! I've fought Ursula! Dory, I've met Dory!" Rachel and Charlie are halfway there when Rachel's boot lands firmly in a puddle she naturally doesn't notice. As she goes forward, it causes her foot to slide and throws her off balance. And since she doesn't have vision, that makes a much greater difference as she is unable to find a point of stability, at least letting go of Charlie as she falls into the pool with a splash and a cry.

Lori's attention is instantly drawn to her direction, seeing Charlie kneeling over the edge. "Charlie!" she cries, everyone now looking over that way.

"She slipped and fell in!" he shouts back. "I think she hit her head though because she's not back up yet!"

Lori makes her way down. "Stay there! Nobody else goes in the water! I'm coming!" Charlie stares at the water as something floats to the surface as Finch nearly teleports over to him.

Charlie lets out a breath of relief, but then notices something worrying. "Her face is still underwater." Sure enough, it is only the back of Rachel's head that has floated up along with her back, leaving her still submerged. "She can't breathe." Charlie reaches, but can't reach her.

"Charlie! Stay there! I mean it!" Lori shouts as she starts running to the bulkhead, taking a frantic moment to grab a hook for saves from the wall. He turns to Finch.

"I should be able to extend my arm properly to retrieve her," she deduces. She concentrates and reaches her arm out, only for it to go pixelated the moment it's over water. She abruptly pulls it back. "What?"

Ben, meanwhile, notices something where Hannah saw movement earlier. It's a ripple in the water and it starts to make its way across the pool. "Lori!" he shouts, following it with his light. "It's moving!" Lori frantically navigates the bulkhead as Finch reaches again, once again her arm going pixelated as it hovers over the water. "It's coming towards her!"

Charlie's eyes widen at this, seeing the ripples grow larger and make their way over. Finch is distracted staring at her hand in bafflement. He stands, clearly ready to jump in. Hannah notices immediately.

"Lori!" She looks from her careful navigation with the pole to see this and looks at Rachel on the water. She makes a quick decision and throws the pole down, diving unceremoniously into the water and earning everyone's attention. "Lori!" Hannah frantically shouts, everyone running in her direction.

"Lores!"

"Lori!" Charlie calls as she quickly freestyles her way over to Rachel and gently flips her over so she's getting air, putting her head on her shoulder to keep it afloat. She paddles back towards land, wincing. "Are you okay?!"

"My dive was a little sloppy. Think I cut my leg on some metal going in." Her paddling is slow but steady progress. "And to think I rolled my eyes when my swim teacher- "

"Lori!" Ben calls, and she see the ripples are practically on her right now. She puts her all into it, just making it to the ladder as Michael, Jess, Andrew, and Hannah gather.

"Take her! Quick!" Michael nods, Hannah helping him hoist Rachel out of the water and onto the deck. Andrew hovers as she starts up the ladder, Michael checking that Rachel still has a pulse. "I'm okay. It's- "

She's pulled under, almost by her neck, before anyone can react, sending everyone into blind panic. Jess gets as far from the water as possible going white, Charlie starts shouting with Hannah's voice joining his, Ben wheels shining his light everywhere, and Michael frantically feels for Rachel's breathing- pulled in two directions at once.

Andrew turns to Hannah, gesturing at the disposed pole. "Get ready when she comes back up."

Hannah rushes over. "What if she doesn't?"

"She will!"

Finch, knowing time is precious, charges at the water and goes to dive herself, only to go completely pixelated as she is over it. She appears back on the deck on her knees, slamming her fist on the deck in frustration. Charlie kneels next to her, clearly having no clue what to do.

She reemerges gasping a long, tense moment later and Hannah wastes no time. The second the ripples are spotted she brings the pole down hard, smashing it over something huge. This buys Andrew enough time to reach out and grab Lori around the waist when she's close enough, hauling her to the surface of the pool deck on top of him.

After Hannah's action the ripples vanish, Ben using his flashlight to desperately try to find them. Michael checks Rachel out and crawls over to Lori, helping her off an Andrew who is desperately trying to remain calm with her wheezing and coughing on top of him, slightly comforted but still at war with the contact. Hannah helps lower her to the deck as Charlie and Finch check on Rachel once they're back on land. Andrew meanwhile sits up, still breathing deeply, and notices his shirt is covered with blood. He looks to see Lori has a nice gash on her leg. "Doctor."

Michael spots it nodding. "She'll need stitches. We should get her back to the room."

Finch easily picks Rachel up, still clearly frustrated. "I will take Rachel Ellis to hers and monitor her from there. She shows no signs of cranial bleeding. If anything, she merely has a minor concussion."

Michael nods, helping a still wheezing Lori onto one leg. Andrew notices Jess still in the corner, but quickly follows at they all start back across the bulkhead more careful than ever. Jess takes a moment before following them.

Ben watches from the other side, pulling out his phone to text Kaity what has just occurred with a very grim look on his face. But first, he again checks for ripples on the water- keeping his flashlight trained until everyone is back safely on the other side with him.

XXX

About a half hour later, Lori lets out a cry of pain and slams her fist on her desk. She is sitting in her desk chair with her right leg on the desk. Michael is perched over it, weaving a needle to try and close her large cut. She's changed out of her wet clothes into a pair of shorts and a sleeveless tank top, though her hair is still dripping. Charlie is at her side, hand firmly wrapped around her other one.

"I'm sorry," Michael apologizes for what must be the millionth time.

"Why?" Lori grits out. "You didn't make me allergic to all forms of pain medication. Can't even blame the book for that one, can I?" He does another and she cries out just as Andrew enters the room, now in a fresh shirt. "Hey, Andy," she greets, forcing a smile. "Thanks for the save back there. I know it wasn't easy for you."

He shakes his head, sitting on the chair from Hannah's desk. "It was actually surprisingly easy, Fitz. Not a doubt or hesitation crossed my mind." She gives an almost teary smile at this and he matches her with a sad one of his own. "I just wish you didn't keep getting hurt like this."

"I'm okay," she promises him. "Just surface pain and another scar. I'll be right as rain soon enough." Michael does another stitch while she's distracted and she merely lets out a muffled groan of pain, Andrew reaching towards her concerned only to stop himself when she opens her eyes clearly fine in most capacities. He forces himself back into his chair as Hannah comes in.

"So, your scarf is a little torn, but Jess said she'll stitch it right back up after the fundraiser. You can borrow one of mine for the next two days in the meantime."

"It grabbed you by your scarf," Michael reflects on. "That's odd considering it was one of the only parts of you not fully submerged in the water. No clue what it was though?"

"It was big and that's all I got. And they were right, it dragged me down at least thirty feet. I saw in this documentary that you shouldn't struggle and I just waited it out."

Hannah sighs. "You were bleeding right, from jumping in?" Lori nods and she holds up a large white triangle tooth. "Then I think I know who was down there." Charlie grabs the tooth and looks at it. "It was tangled up in the scarf."

"A shark," Charlie deduces, mind going. "Bruce. Bruce from Finding Nemo. Which means we don't know if he's good and just smelled her blood so he lost control or…"

"Very bad news," Andrew finishes. "Moral of the story though is no one is going back in that water until we've figured it out."

Hannah nods and pulls out her phone. "I'll text Jess that she needs to make sure her father keeps everyone away for at least one more day." Michael puts another stitch and Lori cries out again. "God, I wish you were passed out like with Maleficent."

"You and me both," Lori squeaks from closed eyes. "I'm good though."

Hannah rolls her eyes and hops on her bed. "Bullshit. Lori, you were just dragged around by a shark. Excuse us if all of us don't believe you."

"It's true."

"You're just putting on a brave face so we don't lose our minds with worry. I get it. A lot of us are these days. But we're your family. You don't have to pretend around us," Hannah lectures her. Lori takes her words in, looking at the four other people in the room and how tired and strung out they all look in their own ways. She decides and then focuses her attention on Andrew.

"I had a little brother." Instantly, she has everyone's attention. "Everyone but you knows that and it's kind of necessary for the rest of the- ow- story. When he was five, Cody was pulled under by another kid at our neighborhood swimming pool and he drowned." Andrew just takes in her incredible sadness. "I was eleven and next door trying to get a cute boy to come to the pool and hang out with me. I wasn't there and he died."

She grimaces again as Michael does one of the last three stitches. She has the attention of the whole room. "So, I became a lifeguard in high school for school pool. My parents were worried, but I told them I wanted to save kids like I couldn't save Cody. Passed training with ease and soon enough I was sitting up on that stand." She looks at Charlie now, squeezing his hand. "A kid, maybe six or seven, floated out too deep on one of those inflatable balls and started struggling when it came out from under him. I knew what I had to do and stood up. And then… I froze," she admits. "I just stood there watching. I'm still not sure what came over me- if I saw my brother out there or I just didn't have it in me. I just stood there watching him drown."

"What happened?" Charlie inquires at almost a whisper.

"Another lifeguard noticed and jumped in. He wasn't even unconscious when she got him to shore, walked it off just fine." She pauses. "I quit after that day. My biggest driving force had become my biggest weakness I told them. I was there this time but someone still almost died. And I hated myself even more for it. Thought I wasn't worth anyone's time and that it was better to have as few people around me as possible. And so I lived until I came here."

She then turns to Hannah. "Caleb died. Everyone else got hurt and I was standing on a hill watching. I was there and someone did die." She smiles warmly, despite Michael doing another stitch that makes her hiss. "But today, today I jumped in. I didn't freeze and I didn't make someone else get hurt because of it. Today I saved Rachel and she's going to be fine. Today I was the only one who got hurt. Today was a good day and I will take the win I have been handed. So, yeah, I really am okay. I promise."

Everyone reflects on her words. Andrew looks almost in awe of her, Michael finishes his last stitch in contemplation, Hannah snorts a laugh of disbelief in Lori being as strong as she is, and Charlie reflects on everything before finally speaking. "You've never told me that story."

Lori ruffles his hair. "Never told anyone that story. Not even my parents. But this room, this is a room of the people I trust the most. People who will understand that life… life can deal some crappy hands," she poses, locking eyes with Andrew again. "But we keep going on anyway. Because we have to. Because others need us to. Because we want to, if only to show ourselves that we can do it." Everyone turns to Andrew as he rises and stands in front of her, just hovering with his eyes down. "And that despite it being the scariest thing we can ever do, that it's okay to find people to help us do it." She releases Charlie's hand and takes Andrew's. He finally looks at her and the two just look at one another for a long moment. They seem to forget anyone else is there.

"Fitz, I- "

She pats his hand and lets go. "It's okay. I didn't say that to force your hand or make any choices for you. Take your time. I'll be ready when you are." With that, she starts to rise- Michael helping her to her feet. "I think I'm ready for some sleep. It's been a long night."

"I'll take the guest room to keep an eye on you," Michael decides. He turns to Charlie and Andrew. "Do you guys want to stay too?"

Charlie nods but Andrew shakes his head. "No, I'm going to head back if that's alright." Everyone nods in understanding as he starts for the door, but not before receiving one last blinding smile from Lori that he reciprocates. Meanwhile, Charlie himself is watching Lori as she is helped onto her bed, clearly making a decision of his own.

As Lori goes to lay back, she sees Hannah smiling to herself while typing on her laptop. "Stop planning the wedding," she calls over to her roommate.

"Never," Hannah replies.

XXX

The next morning, Ben is wheeled into Kaity's hospital room by Finch, seeing his girlfriend is clearly eagerly awaiting his presence. She has the table in front of her with a stack of playing cards she's practicing shuffling. "Hey," she greets him with a quick hug and kiss. She gives Finch a hug as well. "How's everyone holding up?"

"Very well all things considered," Finch reports. "Lori Fitzgerald obtained slight bruising around the neck from being pulled under and a cut to her right hamstring that has been stitched efficiently by Michael Harms. Rachel Ellis awoke two hours after the incident with a minor headache and no further signs of concussion in the time following."

"Good. Hate to be able to visit anyone here." She settles back a bit, shuffling again.

"I myself am experiencing some frustration though," Finch continues. "It seems my programming, despite my current form, will not allow me to transverse water in the capacity that may involve my contact with it." Kaity gives her a look.

Ben steps in. "She can't touch water. She can walk on things over water, but the second she almost comes in contact with it… things go a bit haywire."

"Which means I was unable to protect Lori Fitzgerald and her Companions last night. I find the situation quite… vexing."

Kaity shrugs. "Nobody's prefect unfortunately." Finch doesn't take her words to heart clearly. "Listen, if there's a way around it you'll find it. If not, now we know and can plan for it. Stop beating yourself up. Everything worked out better than our usual luck though so we'll take it."

Ben wheels closer to her. "You seem to be in a good mood today."

Kaity pushes her hair out of her eye and turns to look at him. "I'm practicing for in two days. My parents have decided they're flying in for a few days to visit."

Ben takes this in a moment as she returns to the cards. "Okay. And how are we feeling about that?"

"Hoping if I seem alright they'll go away quickly. Because if they mention quitting school I might possibly lose it on them and then I'm for sure getting dragged home." She sighs. "You don't have to come tomorrow if you don't want to. I know it's not the ideal way to meet someone's parents for the first time, that's for sure. Just help Lori and I'll let you know when it's over."

He grabs her hand and kisses it. "Are you kidding? I'll be right here the whole time. They'll have to drag you out with me." She smiles and he kisses her forehead. "I love you."

"I love you too." Finch takes in her work with the cards.

"This style is very similar to that of our Companion Andrew Parker."

Kaity beams, smile finally reaching her eyes. "Yeah. I eventually convinced him to show me a trick yesterday when he was here. Want to see it?"

"Affirmative," Finch agrees. "Though I warn you I'm very good at figuring out how they're done."

"Challenge accepted." Kaity starts shuffling and holds out the card deck.

Ben sits a moment as Finch picks one. "How often does he visit?"

"For an hour or two a day." Finch puts it back and Kaity gives him a quick look. "Stop that. He's fine. He just does magic tricks to make me feel better. It helps. Nothing else to it." She stills see the look on his face. "Stop."

He nods, giving in. "You're right. I pick a card next though."

"Deal."

XXX

Meanwhile, Michael enters the theatre to find Rachel sitting on the edge of the stage with her feet swinging and seemingly deep in thought. "I thought I'd come check on you myself," he announces his presence, hopping up next to her. "How are we doing?"

"Physically fine," she admits.

"And mentally?" he probes.

Rachel smirks. "Are you sure you want to open that can of worms? You seem to have your hands full from what I've seen."

He doesn't hesitate. "I've got time."

"I'm kind of lonely. I do miss having Kaity around. She's a pretty good roommate. And now I feel like things are a little weird with Finch despite her not really understanding why. Oh, and Robert's avoiding me now despite the fact we're leads in a play together. It's remarkable really how well he's pulling it off." She sighs. "But, mostly I'm feeling utterly and completely useless."

"You're not useless."

Rachel gives him a look. "I fell in a pool last night and apparently, all hell broke loose because of it. I'm the one who got kidnapped in the mirror and led to that massacre. I slow us down a lot, and I'm trying to pretend I'm tough and stubborn enough not to notice- but I do. I can clearly see that I have no use as a Companion outside the damsel in distress everyone has to save."

Michael takes a moment before speaking. "We all have a part to play." She goes to say something, but he beats her to it. "And I know for some of us it's easy to say like myself. Like Charlie and Finch and Hannah. But you're here for a reason."

"Maybe I'm just a Caleb," she offers. "Maybe I could never read the book and now we'll never know. Maybe I'm just going to get myself and others killed by being around all of you."

"You're never going to get anywhere if you think like that," Michael makes clear. "You need to start believing you have a part to play and maybe then things will start being clear. Again, I understand easier said than done. But if you haven't noticed, not one person has said a word blaming you for last night. It was an accident. They happen. We won and we need to take that as Lori reminded me." He rises. "You're one of us and there will always be a place for you despite anything and everything that could happen. It's up to you to figure out what that means though."

Rachel nods after a moment, swinging her feet again. "I will try and keep that in mind."

Michael pats her arm. "Please do. And if you're still struggling, I think you and Ben could have a good talk. I remember him going through the same thing a few years ago."

Rachel raises an eyebrow. "Really?"

"Yeah. You two have a lot in common when I think about it. Might be a good avenue for you to explore… especially if feeling lonely. I know he's over enough." He starts up the aisle. "And congrats on the interview before I forget."

She smiles. "Thank you." He exits and she sits clearly deep in thought with what he's told her.

XXX

The next evening, the fundraiser is in full swing in the gymnasium, which has carpet laid down and walls put up to display the art and things up for silent auction. Jess and Hannah stand in their nicest dresses greeting guests as they come in and shaking hands while Lori and Charlie, similarly dressed up, man the drink table to serve punch with smiles on their faces.

Charlie takes the room in. "Well, there's no more glamorous way to spend your birthday," he offers.

Lori gives him a knowing smile. "Soon enough it'll be dinner time and we'll be free to go. Finch is keeping an eye on the pool, we'll go to dinner the two of us, and then I'm feeling up for getting this thing sorted out tonight. Sound good?" Charlie nods enthusiastically. The two continue serving drinks as Lori notices Brett Edwardson enter with his family, greeting Hannah very warmly. She even starts leading the group of them around with a wave to Jess. "Interesting."

"You're worried about her," Charlie deduces.

Lori nods. "Though I do tend to worry about everybody at this point let's be honest." Jess greets a new entrant before making her way over to their table. "Punch?"

"No. They'll be flashing the lights soon. You're free to go. Have dinner."

Lori salutes. "Thanks, boss. See you tonight at the pool?"

"Most likely not," Jess admits. "But perhaps that is for the best. I seem to handle myself poorly in our… more intense scenarios."

Lori pats her on the shoulder and she instantly pulls away. "Not all of us fall into being heroes right away. I know I didn't. There is an incident with a racoon I know I've blocked out because it makes me cringe."

"It was bad," Charlie informs Jess. "Almost brought everything down."

Jess shrugs them off. "Still, I feel I will be best served here supporting Hannah in her duties."

"Keep an eye on her," Lori cuts in, nodding to where she's walking with Brett. "That one has broken her heart before and I'm afraid she's starting to fall for the same trick twice."

Jess rolls her eyes. "I will not. She's a grown woman who can make her own choices. Now get out of here before I change my mind and make you serve dinner." The two of them start scurrying away. "And Lori… be careful tonight."

"Will do, President's Daughter," Lori quips as they leave, making Jess just start grumbling to herself on why she bothers as she goes to rejoin the festivities.

Lori and Charlie meanwhile starts out of the building after throwing on their coats. She starts digging around in her pocket before handing him a small box. "Here. I was going to wait until the restaurant but honestly I'm too excited to wait." She ruffles his hair. "Happy Birthday, buddy."

"Thanks!" he smiles before opening it. His face completely lights up. "Lori…"

"I've seen you admiring Ben's. And I know it's not a hand-me-down like his is, but I'm hoping it stands the test of time enough that it can be." He removes a beautiful watch from the case and admires it- gold with a small Mickey Mouse etched into one of the corners as the hand ticks around.

He turns it over and somehow his smile grows even wider. "'To all of my best friends Love, Lori'." He almost starts tearing up as he puts it on. "You shouldn't have. I don't even want to know- "

"You're worth it," she cuts him off. "Plus, it wasn't just me. Everyone chipped in when I found myself getting in over my head. They wanted no credit though despite my efforts." He pulls her in for a huge hug that she reciprocates. "Happy birthday, Charlie. Love you."

"Love you too." They continue walking for a moment before he speaks up. "I have to tell you something. Something I'm worried you're going to hate me for."

Lori halts, giving him a stern look. "Charles Prescott, there is nothing you could possibly say that I would ever hate you for." She takes a beat. "Except if you say you knew how to get rid of the book this whole time. That might take a month or so to get over."

He smirks despite how nervous he is, Lori just waiting patiently for him to say it. "I think… I've started noticing that when it comes to noticing people… that I'm not really noticing girls that much. That when I do look at people… like that… it tends to be guys instead."

He doesn't offer anymore, forcing Lori to speak. She gets at his eye-level despite the dress and is nothing but kind and gentle. "Charlie, are you trying to come out to me right now?"

He nods. "I think… actually I'm pretty sure I'm gay." She stares at him for a long moment as he waits with his eyes downcast, almost flinching when she opens her mouth again.

"Hey, look at me." He does reluctantly and she smiles her best smile. "I love you."

"Still?"

She pulls him in for a hug, unable to wait any longer. "Of course, buddy. This doesn't change a thing for me. You still have every quality that makes you my best friend. You're no different at all." She pulls back so she can look at him. "All this means is I need to start looking for cute boys when you become thirty instead of girls. All of them will still have to go through me of course. I will screen vigorously." She wipes his tears away as he laughs. "Now why on earth did you think I would hate you over that?"

"I just… I thought you'd be mad since I chased you around and made all those jokes about marrying you when we first met."

She snorts. "Charlie, you were thirteen and I was your first real friend. Or course you had a crush on me. You're three years older now and it seems some things have become clear. That's fine. Maybe you still do like girls in addition to boys which is also great." She ruffles his hair. "If you are happy, then I am all for it. Like I will keep saying until we're rocking at a nursing home together, I love you."

He hugs her again, weight lifted from his shoulders. "I love you too. Thank you. Thank you for being the best friend anyone could have. I don't… I don't know who I'd be without you."

"Well, I know I'm hungry," she pulls away but taking his hand. "Come on. Let's go get something to eat before you start to look like a chicken wing." He laughs and they carry on their walk. "Have you talked to anyone else?"

Charlie shakes his head. "Not yet. I figure I have time since I'm not dating until I'm thirty. I wanted to talk to you first."

Lori nods. "Completely understood. Take your time."

"I do have a watch now to keep it."

She laughs. "I think I might keep you."

"I was thinking the same thing."

"Good."

"Good."

XXX

A few hours later, Lori once again enters the pool deck. This time though she is only joined by Andrew, Charlie, and Michael. Finch is sitting on the bulkhead and makes her way over as they arrive.

"No signs of activity. He's keeping very quiet."

Lori nods, taking that in. She reaches into the bag on Andrew's back to pull out a large bowl of salad obviously taken from the cafeteria and makes her way to the edge of the pool. "Hey!" she shouts over the water, voice echoing greatly. "We got off on the wrong foot last time, Bruce! I think you didn't mean to do what you did! I really do! So you don't have to be afraid of us! We still want to send you home! I even brought you a little snack!" She tosses the salad in the water. "No swords or flashlights this time! Just us, here to talk!"

They wait as the salad leaves sink under the water and soon enough everyone takes an unconscious step back as Bruce the shark's enormous head emerges from the water. "Thank you," he greets them with his very large teeth smiling. "I haven't had anything in a long time. I was practically wasting- oh. It's you. I'm so sorry about the other day? Are you alright? I didn't mean to do what I did. I was merely swimming over to help your friend when everything went hazy."

Lori smiles in relief, knowing exactly who they're dealing with. "It's fine. I'm fine. Diving in did me more harm than you did. Just gave everyone a scare."

He nods before gasping. "And the scarf? Was it alright? It seemed like such a nice scarf."

"It'll be fixed by tomorrow," she assures him. "No worries. We probably scared you coming in with all our stuff like we did."

"It had been quite the trying day," Bruce admits. "I fear I've missed some meetings in the meanwhile. You see, I'm attending meetings so as to better myself and not be the mindless eating machine you previously observed. I nearly fell off the wagon and it disturbed me as much as it scared you I'm sure. I wish I could just blame these strange surroundings, but I can't let myself off the hook that easily."

Lori takes a seat on the edge of the water. "I don't know if you know who I am. I'm Lori Fitzgerald."

"I feel the name does ring a bell, yes. Not sure from where though."

"I've met a lot of people from your world and helped them get back. Just like I will with you. It's what I do. But that doesn't mean I don't make mistakes- that I'm perfect. No one is. We all get in our own heads and let things get to us, sometimes stupid little things and some huge. But we don't give up, do we?"

He shakes his head, enamored by her. "Not if I want to be the nice shark I dream to be."

She snaps. "Bingo! Instead we just trying to become the better person we want ourselves to be. To face our mistakes and when in the situation again… this time we make the right choice." With that, she reaches out despite everyone's fear and pats him atop the head.

"You are a very kind Sheila indeed."

"I'll tell you a secret," she admits. "That's what I'm working towards myself. But not just being nice to others. I feel like I learned that lesson long ago. I'm doing what's even harder… being nice to myself. Saying that despite the mistakes I make, I deserve for good things to happen. I deserve the people I have. That I'm good." She strokes him a few times. "And you are too, so don't give up on yourself because of one tooth okay?"

He's almost crying. "No. No I won't. Oh, you have to come speak at one of my meetings one time. That was absolutely… that was breathtaking."

Lori laughs. "Thanks. The words seem to come to me when I need them most." She turns to Michael who hands her the book. "Now, what do you say about going home?"

"You honor me, I must say. Please, keep the tooth as a thank you for your inspiring words. It was worth losing to have heard such a moving testimony." He moves towards her and again everyone but her seems unsure as he bumps his nose against her hand.

Andrew just shakes his head. "She is fearless," he whispers. Michael sees his look and smiles. "Stop planning the wedding."

"Make me."

Lori opens the book to a glowing poem. "Ready?"

Bruce nods, steeling himself. "On my honor as a nice shark I am!"

"Though we have long sharp teeth We're nice sharks underneath" And with the usual burst of light, Bruce has vanished with a wave of his fin that everyone reciprocates. She stands triumphantly, closing the book and turns to her gathered Companions. She reflects on them and everyone who is not there, stepping back onto the deck. They start making their way out of the pool as the water slowly starts to return to its normal depth as color as if by magic.

"That was great," Charlie pumps her up.

She waves him off. "Nah." She looks everyone over though, reflecting on those who aren't gathered right now as well. "I do wish everyone was here for this one."

"You're worried about all of us," Charlie deciphers.

"Always am," she admits. "Now more than ever," she admits only to herself under her breath as she takes everyone in.

XXX

The next afternoon, Ben sits outside the door of the hospital room, door closed and voices inside. "How long have you been psyching yourself up out here?" He turns to see Lori coming up next to him with Michael and Charlie following behind her.

"Enough that I didn't know it was one already," he admits.

"It's actually two-thirty," Michael supplies, making Ben groan. "We were running a bit late."

"I thought it was just her nurses in there with her," he admits. "It did seem like it was a really long visit. Alright, let's go." Lori opens the door for him and he wheels himself in only to come to a halt. Kaity is sitting with her parents, clearly on edge but slightly comforted by the fact that Andrew is standing next to her. Kaity lights up at the sight of him.

"Mom! Dad! This is him. This is Ben," she introduces, waving him over. He wheels over and shakes both of their hands. "And those are the rest of my friends hiding back there."

"Ignore us," Lori waves. "Just providing moral support." Her parents laugh at that.

"It's a pleasure, Ben," her dad greets. "We've heard so much about you." He manages a smile, taking a spot at Kaity's side.

Andrew takes a step back, ignoring the look Ben gives him briefly. "Well, I think I'll go see what kind of food they have today. Give you guys some time alone. Anything I can get you all?"

Her mother waves him off. "No. It was a great pleasure to meet you though, Andrew."

Her dad clearly agrees. "Those tricks are just as great as Kaity tells us. Thanks for everything you do with her."

He shakes his head, putting a comforting hand on her shoulder. "Not a problem for my little sister." It takes a moment but soon everyone outside Kaity's parents realize what has just happened- Andrew last of all of them. Surprisingly, he pats one more time before pulling away. "Umm, have a good visit. I hope we see each other again soon." With that, he makes his way out of the room with Ben and Kaity staring after him with very different expressions.

He closes the door behind him and lets out a deep breath. "I… I can't believe I just did that." He locks eyes with Lori. "I just… and it wasn't you. I don't… how do I feel fine right now?"

Lori just gives him a moment. "Come on. Let's get lunch and we can come back in an hour or so." The group makes their way down the hallway.

Andrew thinks of something suddenly. "Oh, have you heard from the Lone Ranger recently? How he's doing?"

Lori nods, though her face is tight. "I've spoken to DIZ several times about him, but they've refused to put him on the phone. I was planning on giving them hell until I got what I wanted earlier this week, but time got away from me. Don't worry, I'm going to actually speak to him though. I'm not buying anything until I hear he's okay."

"Good," Andrew agrees. "Don't want him thinking we forgot about him."

XXX

Commander Abbot leans against the wall by the desk, arms folded. She is quietly observing the Lone Ranger very carefully, trying to gauge his response to her words as he takes them in. The corner of her mouth lifts when she sees him look at the stack of folders again, but he abruptly rises to stare at the fake landscape out the window.

"There has to be another way," he offers after a long moment, knuckles white on the windowsill. Abbot takes a beat, deciding how exactly to tackle this.

"I wish there was," she offers, doing her best to sound sincere. "Sacrificing Lori's life- "

"Murder," he cuts her off coldly. "What you're saying we need to do is pre-meditated murder. It is purposefully ending someone's life. Denying justice what it is due. She's… she's just a girl after all. A horribly mislead girl."

His tone throws Abbot off a bit, but she continues nonetheless. "I suppose I choose to see it in a different light. I see the endless characters she has terrorized. I see the Companions she has blinded into following her despite her cruel decisions. I see Caleb Dean's family at his funeral, not understanding who is responsible for his death." She takes a few steps forward. "Lori Fitzgerald is not just a girl. Maybe when this whole thing started she was. Maybe at one time there was hope of turning things around like you believe. We tried merely controlling her actions, helping her see just what she was doing. Begging her to let us help her with that burden. She responded by debilitating one of our best- a man I had a great deal of respect for. There may have been a time, but that time has passed and too much is on the line- everyone and everything quite frankly."

She lets this sink in before making the final push. "So... I do not plan to murder Lori Fitzgerald. I plan to sacrifice what she has unfortunately become for the safety of all those around her before she gets all their necks snapped." A thick silence hangs between the two of them. "I know this is a lot to take in. I'll leave you with your thoughts."

She starts for the door, knocking twice and a click echoes. She goes to pull it open when he speaks, still not facing her though. "Why haven't you done it yet then?"

"Honestly… I fear I'm not strong enough to do it myself. Sometimes I look at her and I still see the hero she once was. And I know that person is gone… but hope is a very powerful thing I suppose. I try to not let her get too out of hand while I figure a solution out. I fear it will take someone stronger than myself in the end. Someone better." With that, she exits and the guard goes to lock the door behind her.

Her voice has instantly lost any sympathy and is back to resonating with full authority. "No. We've given him a lot to think about. If he wants some fresh air, then I believe he has earned it. I think I have another post for you." The guard nods and starts following her down the hallway.

She pulls out her phone and quickly dials. "I want the room rigged up and ready to go for when it's time." They say something that makes her smile. "Oh, I give him a day or two at most. Then after a little demonstration I'm inclined to think he'll be ready for his field assignment. And if not, well we've got nothing but time. We'll break him soon enough. Affirmative." She hangs up and comes to a stop at another door, nodding for the guard to take up his new post. He does so without hesitation. "Make sure no matter what happens he doesn't go in there."

"Yes, ma'am."

She keeps walking, smile spreading in triumph. "Wouldn't want to spoil the magic for him, after all."

XXX

Tune in next time as a very magical entity, there's no friend like him, makes an appearance and starts a debate on what three things the group could benefit from most. Ben and Rachel especially have some ideas they really need to think over in particular, leading to tension amongst everyone.