...More Human Than Human...

Disclaimer: I don't own Star Trek. Reviews are welcome. I don't own any characters other than Fenix/Fi Flarestone, Faloray Skyborne, Lord Flarestone, River Vogel, Rain Gunther. I own Electi Illiusia/Electi Illiusians/Semita Caelesti. Enjoy and stay ethical y'all.

Chapter 38: River and Rain

Previously…

Q looked at Fenix seriously. She still hasn't completed her bond with Data. That's not good. "Any ways, if I were you, Fenix, I wouldn't drag this thing out." Q warned. Fenix asked, "What do you mean, Q? Drag what out?" Q exaggerated his eye roll, "Oh for goodness sake, girl! Mating Data, you oaf! The longer you fight your natural instincts, the quicker you lose your mind! Ugh… child... Do I have to tell you everything!?" he scolded with his hands on his hips. He added, "Your bond with Data happened basically when you first met. That was a long enough time ago... You got three weeks to complete the bond, after that... you're too late." He warned, then disappeared. Lore blandly added, "Great... now there's a time limit." Q popped in again to add, "Seriously Fenix, how lucky are you to have two androids to become your husbands, really? And girl… Mmm… Three is more fun than two." He hinted with a wink. Fenix was about to give him an earful but he disappeared before she got the chance. The three of them stood in silence, dumbfounded by Q's sudden appearance and what he had to say. Fenix shook her head and collected herself, "Hey, you guys wanna go flying for a bit? Explore these floating islands?" Data smiled, "I would like that, this place is… magical. I cannot understand the science behind a lot of how this planet seems to work. It is very intriguing." then looked to Lore. He smirked, "Why not? Let's go. The scenery would refresh our minds." He eyed Fenix and pulled her in for a kiss. You're still mine. I'll always reclaim you.

Throughout the two weeks, Lord Flarestone and Lore spent an amble amount of time together discussing military tactics for and if there ever was an invasion of Electi Illiusia. This left a lot of time for Fenix to spend time with Data and occasionally Faloray. When she spent her time with Faloray, she tried to teach magic to Fenix which, surprisingly, she was capable of doing. She learned healing spells for fixing Lore and Data, to flying, destruction spells and many useful skills. When Fenix spent her time with Data, they got to know each other more and more which in turn was helping Fenix cope with the notion she will be more intimate with him in the near future. She had taught Jeet Kun Do to Data, with him surpassing her. Or they played the acoustic guitar together, listened to classical music, Data taught her how to play the violin which she picked up with ease. Sometimes they wrote poetry together, Fenix had the great idea of adding samples from songs as Data performed his poetry next time. She made sure to make a note of it. Painting and art were something they enjoyed together as well.

It was at night when Lore finally met up with Fenix in their accommodated room, he wrapped his arms around her middle as he whined, "Fenix... I miss you. I'm not used to being apart from you like this but that damned Lord Flarestone keeps insisting that I help him with military tactics and it's becoming extremely boring." Fenix giggled at his over-exaggerated acting, "Lore, babes... it can't be that bad. It's like when I was going to school on the Enterprise, right? We got through that." she touched his jawline and planted kisses on his lovely neck. "Mmm... I like that Fenix... But I swear, him and Faloray are up to something." he pecked her lips and continued, "I swear… they're trying to keep me away from you so 'Data' can spend some 'alone time' with you." he mocked in a nasally voice. She burst out into laughter at his attempt to cover his petty behaviour. Composing herself she defended, "Well yeah, they kinda are... because I need a little encouragement." He quirked an eyebrow, "Encouragement?" "Yes, encouragement. Just because I'm not a virgin any more doesn't mean that love making is less meaningful. And it's like the end of week two and we haven't done anything other than kissing, really." She updated nonchalantly. Lore growled in frustration, "You still haven't banged him yet? Really? Q said do it within three weeks or you'll go insane." Fenix rolled her eyes as she countered, "I said I need encouragement, Lore! Not pressure!" Lore's shoulders sagged knowing he was pushing her but realized he needs to be easy on her seeing how easily the topic had made her flabbergasted. She inhaled to calm herself, "I told you… sex is a big deal and it'll be my first time with Data. I promise I'll complete the bond with him in the next few days, just... stop pressuring me to have sex with your brother, geez… weirdo." Lore sighed in defeat as he wrapped his long arms around her shoulders, "I know... and I know it doesn't help that I keep you up at night to make up for lost time during the day. I promise to let you sleep a decent amount of time from now on. Come, sit on the bed." She did as he instructed as he sat behind her. He started brushing her hair, instantly relaxing her. Closing her eyes, she enjoyed the tingling sensations. The first time he brushed her hair was when he cut her hair for her when they were stuck on Omicron Theta. Lore put the brush down and ran his long fingers through her thick mane. He chuckled, "Gotta say… I do like the mullet on you. Very Nikki Sixx, Mick Mars, and Joan Jett-y. I'm glad you kept the back much longer than they do." then ruffled the top of her head. She smiled as her eyes remained closed, "Thanks Lore. I always wanted my hair like this but mom never let me." Marvelling at how soft and silky her hair always was since he first saw her, it never got tangled and always looked sultry. He loved her long, dark, straight hair and he loved playing with it. This was one of those moments he cherished, it was innocent yet somehow very sensual. The first time I did this, I tried to tease you by suggestively implying how pleasurable it was for you when you experienced autonomous sensory meridian response. Little did you know back then that if you were to indulge that thought, I would've seduced you in an instant. Even to this day, you thought I was joking when I teased you about anything related to sex and intimacy... truth be told, if you ever slipped up, I would've seduced you so seamlessly you wouldn't have even seen it coming. Hell, I would've made love to you when we sparred the very first time, emotion program fixed or not. Lore thought as he continued his ministrations on her hair and scalp. She touched his hand gently, his non-existent heart stopped as she innocently looked at him over her shoulder with blushing cheeks as she softly spoke, "Lore? I… I want you." He could feel and hear the fluctuation in her body heat and heart-rate. He smiled sweetly as he nuzzled into her hair, inhaling her sweet scent of arousal and whispered in her ear, "Of course, my sweet little Fenix..." he gently pushed her hair out of the way and started kissing her delicate neck. For one so small, you're durable with an intensely high tolerance for pain yet your body is extremely sensitive when it comes to pleasure... simply amazing. Fenix, you still intrigue me... the most precious and perfect specimen across the galaxies. She leaned back into his body as she mewled. Lore smiled victoriously as he kissed her neck and proceeded to undress her to make love to his wife.

Lore woke up before Fenix and decided to stay in bed to cuddle her. It was still early, he didn't have to go see Lord Flarestone right yet, he wanted to spend the morning next to Fenix's warm body. Lore noticed something was different with her this morning, usually she would wake up from his movements but she didn't. She moved around restlessly with her eyebrows scrunched. Lore kept an eye on her for a moment to make sure she was okay as he listened to her heart-beat. It's still within normal range. No… her heart-rate fluctuations are unpredictable more than usual. "Fenix?" There was no response from her. "Fenix!" Lore yelled louder as he shook her shoulders worriedly. Meanwhile, Fenix kept dreaming, completely unaware of what was happening in her waking life.

Fenix woke up on a retro floral patterned couch in an unknown house. She heard sounds coming from the kitchen and sat up. She saw a man in his early thirties wearing a pair of charcoal slacks, and a black button down neatly tucked into his pants. He was lean, yet muscular in build. He ran his hand through his short blonde hair as he sighed. His piercing blue eyes darted for the pack of cigarettes and lit one. After taking a deep inhale, he turned to the side and started brewing a pot of coffee. From this angle, Fenix saw his straight aquiline nose, the clean curve of his jawline and sensual lips with the cigarette perched perfectly. He checked the time on his right wrist. Fenix wasn't sure what to do when the man made his way to the couch she was sitting in as she scooted herself to the other end of the couch. Her eyebrows knit together as he sat down next to her without a glance. She built up her courage, "Hey..." The man didn't answer. She sighed in confusion, "Hey dude!" and waved her hand around frantically. Nothing. She dared to do the obvious and reached for one of the man's broad shoulders. Her hand went right through him and quickly retreated her hand. "What the fuck is going on?" He turned on the TV as he sipped on his coffee and occasionally flicking his cigarette with his left hand into the ashtray on the coffee table. She walked to the counter and lit one for herself and grabbed a cup of coffee before sitting back down on the other side of the couch. She noticed every channel surfed through were old. This is all from the mid 80's… the commercials… the shows… the floral pattern on this couch is old ass, too. This whole house, the cheesy infomercials… he's smoking inside… She sighed and leaned over as she flicked the ash into the ashtray. The man did so as well and she realized they flicked the cigarette the same way. He takes his coffee the same as me… After the man finished his coffee, he stood to put the cup in the sink.

Meanwhile...

Lore retrieved Faloray. Lore sprinted as Faloray hastily flew beside him back to his room, "She's not waking up." Faloray placed her hand on her Fenix's forehead and closed her eyes. "She's stuck in a dream state." Lore tried to be patient but he was starting to panic, "What the hell does that mean!? Of course she's dreaming! She won't wake up!" Faloray's purple eyes pierced Lore's, "What was the one thing she desperately needed clarity of?" He shook her head, "What she was…?" Faloray shook her head, "That was solved when she came in contact with the Crystalline Entity." Lore's eyes widened, "Why her biological parents abandoned her." She nodded, "She has not completed the bond with Data, and..." she looked to Lore, "I know you have been putting a lot of pressure on her lately." Lore knew she was right as he remained silent, "She's teetering on the edge, Lore. Pressuring her is only going push her into permanent psychosis much quicker." and pushed Fenix's bangs out of the way. Lore ran his hand over his face at the realization he was taking part of causing this predicament. Sighing as he collected himself, he calmed himself, "What can I do do fix this?" Faloray shook her head, "Nothing. If you put yourself in stand-by mode, I can put you where she is."

"Do it."

"You will be powerless there. She won't hear, see or feel you." She warned. For someone like you, it would push you to the limits if you see Fenix in a compromised position yet unable to do nothing for her. Lore demanded again, "Do it, Faloray." and laid beside Fenix then put himself into stand-by mode. Faloray levitated above them and closed her eyes as she became the conduit between the two. Lore's closed eyes twitched.

He sat on the couch, he observed his surroundings in the unknown house. I smell cigarettes and black coffee. There's a man here, too. He stood up from the couch quickly turned his head when he hear the sounds of crash cymbals and drums. I hear music coming from down stairs. Making his way to where the sounds were coming from, he saw Fenix standing by the man as he was drumming. "Fenix!" Lore yelled. She remained unaware of his presence as her eyes were fixated on the man. He reached for Fenix's hand but his hand went through hers. She can't hear, see or touch me… right... Lore tilted his head. Who is this guy? Why is she looking at him so intently? He noticed the posters plastered on the walls of the unfinished basement. Motley Crue, Led Zeppelin, Ozzy, Jimi Hendrix, Dokken… He's got good taste in music. His eyes went to the man drumming. His movements are identical to when Fenix occasionally plays the drums. Their surroundings suddenly changed and Fenix, too, noticed the change.

Lore and Fenix were in an 1977 white Firebird as the man from the basement was driving. Fenix and Lore looked out the window taking in their surroundings. Fenix mumbled, "Sunset Strip…" Lore scrunched his eyebrows. How would she know? She never mentioned going there... Then looked at the man flicking his cigarette. He flicks it the same way as Fenix. His mannerisms are similar to hers… This must be Fenix's biological father. The car came to a stop and the man got out. Fenix and Lore followed suit and walked beside him into the pub they rolled up on. The pub was grungy, smoke filled the air, and 'Hold Me Now' by Thompson Twins was blaring. Lore's eyes darted everywhere. So many mullets… Feels like we're balls deep in the 80's or something. His eyes stopped at a newspaper on the counter and looked. Date November 20th 1985… We are in the 80's! He looked to see Fenix looking at the man ordering a drink. He had ordered a beer. Lore and Fenix both noticed the man was staring at someone working in the kitchen. The girl seemed to be around Fenix's age with a jet-black mullet, pale skin and dark brown eyes. "She looks kinda like Joan Jett but with a more feminine face." He heard Fenix mentioning. The girl was busy flipping burgers as she quickly took a drag of her cigarette in between. The girl hollered that she was taking a break and walked to the counter to retrieve some water. She was the same height as Fenix, similar in build and her mannerisms reminded Lore of her. He scowled when he noticed the bruises on her arms. Those don't look like it was out of clumsiness. The man spoke, "Are you alright?" Fenix wasn't expecting him to have a southern accent and quirked an eyebrow. The girl's large doe-like eyes met the man's crystal blue ones, "Yeah, thanks. Just busy." and gave him a tight lipped smile. "Your arms..." the man commented. She shook her head, "I got really drunk the other night. I'm fine." She forced herself a brighter smile as she giggled. The man had a pained look on his face, "Who is he?" the girl stopped and her face hardened, "Don't worry about it." and her smile returned. "I'm sorry for being nosy… I'm River. River Gunther." She put the glass down and looked at him, "Rain Vogel. We both got water names, huh?" The man flashed her a faint smile, "That we do." "I uh… gotta go back to work. It's getting busy again." and Rain walked back to the kitchen. Lore saw what had transpired between the two strangers and wondered the significance of it all as Fenix. I wonder if she figured it out that they're probably her biological parents? Shetoo watched the whole event intensely as she drank her beer. Fenix thought to herself. These two… there's something about them that I recognize… They seem… familiar. I feel like I know them. Lore and Fenix noticed a shift in their surroundings once again.

They were in a much older smaller house, the living room was littered with empty beer bottles and other alcoholic containers. The walls were streaked with brownish yellow drips from decades of smoking inside. The place was filthy making Fenix feel uncomfortable. Where am I now? This place is a dump… She jumped when she heard a loud voice of a man. "Where the fuck were you!?" The man had dark hair and brown eyes, about the same build as Lore but much more muscular. The man wore a white wife-beater under his dirty coveralls. He's a mechanic… She noted the tattoos on his arms and his large hands, then her eyes darted to the bruises on Rain's arms. Is he the one hurting her? Fenix felt Rain's frustration and fear ash she clenched her fists. Lore picked up on Rain's fear even as she shot back, "I was working, dad! We can't afford to pay the damn bills when you spend all yours on booze!" Lore winced realizing the man would've been Fenix's grandfather. He's a monster. The man towered over the short girl, "What did you just say to me?" Rain recoiled knowing she had made a terrible mistake that she would have to pay. No! Please don't, dad... The man swung his arm as Rain ducked just in time. "Get over here you shit!" the man shouted, Fenix heart raced as she jumped for the man reaking of stale whisky. He's piss-drunk… She fell on the floor unceremoniously as she went through him like air. I can't do anything here! I'm useless! Shit! Lore saw the turmoil burning in Fenix's eyes as he too, wasn't able to protect this young woman. Rain's dad grabbed her by the arm pulling her towards him then hit her in the face. Rain fell unceremoniously onto the floor but quickly picked herself up and grabbed the rotary phone and bashed it over his head knocking him unconscious. She quickly ran upstairs with Lore and Fenix following behind her. Rain locked the door and grabbed her switch-blade in her hand waiting, just in case her father had not passed out. When enough time had passed, with shaky hands she rolled a joint and lit it. Taking a deep inhale she began to calm down from the altercation with her father. She walked over to the vanity and inspected her face. Blood was present on lip and nostrils, "Shit..." she mumbled and retrieved the bottle of vodka and soaked a bandanna to clean her wounds. Once finished, she listened to any noises to see if her father was up and around again. Lore listened and was compelled to tell her it was safe. Rain opened her bedroom door and quietly walked into the bathroom. Lore and Fenix listened to the water filling the tub. Fenix walked back into Rain's room and sat on the chair with a sigh. She has the same taste in music as I do and that… River guy. Well I guess the 80's were a huge time for metal. I always wished I was old enough to enjoy the 80's but poor Rain… Her eyes scanned the room and saw a guitar case in the corner tucked away with an amp and headphones. She plays guitar... Lore went downstairs and checked on the father. He had made his way to his couch and was passed out. Piece of shit… It's humans like you who deserved to die. Fenix looked up seeing Rain come into the room and quietly closed the door. Lore walked in right after her and for a moment he thought Fenix was able to see him. No… she still can't see me. Her hair was damp and she sat on the bed. Fenix noticed tears began streaming down her face as she grabbed her pillow and began punching it in frustration. Her lip had stopped bleeding as a bruise had already began to form. After a few minutes, Rain reached for her text books and began doing her homework. Fenix looked at the stack of text books. Grade 10 physics… She's younger than me. Probably only fifteen… Unable to focus, Rain put aside her homework and went for her guitar. Plugging her headphones into the amp, she began to play. Lore's eyes widened. Rain plays the same as Fenix. Her pinky does that every time she plays that song. This must be her biological mother… The mannerisms of both River and Rain are uncanny to Fenix. After a while, Rain looked at the clock and realized she would only be able to sleep for three hours until she had to go to school. Putting her instruments away, she laid on the bed fully clothed. Fenix watched over her with sad eyes that broke Lore's heart. Fenix and Lore noticed once again their surroundings were changing.

Lore and Fenix were with either Rain or River for which seemed like months. They noticed Rain began warming up to River more and more with each passing day. She didn't want any handouts from him, she just enjoyed his company. River was drawn to her from the moment he had saw her the first time in the pub that night and he desperately wanted to save her from whatever garbage life had been constantly dumping on her. Lore understood this man was clearly concerned for the girl. Who wouldn't? It's pretty obvious she's getting used as a punching bag and up her father's slack. Fenix knew there was something building between the two. "I'm done around… 2:30am, it'll be really late though..." Rain answered. "I don't mind, I'll wait for you out back." She smiled, "See you then." River waited nervously for her outside and began fidgeting with the hem of his shirt. The heavy door opened and Rain smiled seeing River standing. She wore a black leather jacket covered in patches and pins, her black jeans were ripped at the knees and wore a dirty old pair of high-tops. River lit a cigarette and offered one to Rain and she happily accepted. The two began casually talking as they went for a late night stroll and found their way to a park. River talked and laughed but couldn't hide his sad blue eyes seeing the bruise that was peaking through her dark eye-makeup. He could smell the old grease from working the grill and fryers she worked which never bothered him. Rain noticed and averted her gaze with shame, "What it is, Riv?" He sighed, "I know it ain't something you wanna talk about but… I see your bruises, Rain. Is it your dad?" Her eyes welled with tears and she broke down. River wrapped his long protective arms around the girl as she sobbed. He smelled of his cologne and cigarettes, something that over time gave her comfort. She collected herself and began, "Yeah… it is. Momma left long ago and didn't take me with her." his arms tightened around her, "I'm here, Rain. I know we don't know each other very well, but if I can help in any way…" Tears welled in his eyes, "I grew up with an abusive father, too. He accidentality killed my little sister"...Who you remind me of so much. "If I was stronger then, I could've stop him, but I was young."He massaged her head feeling the crispiness of the hairspray she used to keep her mullet looking big. He saw the blonde roots of her hair peaking through her dyed black hair. I'm not losing you, too. In that moment, he realized how much he had cared for the girl. He was twenty years her senior and knew better than to get himself involved in her personal troubles or with anyone as young as her. He had no business spending time with a fifteen-year-old. It's too late… I'm… I care about her. I want to save her. Rain slowly released him and wiped her tears. River looked at her big brown eyes, "If you need a place to stay, you know where I live. I just want you to be safe, Rain." She embraced him again. River… I know you're way older than me but… I feel the safest in your arms… I haven't felt this way since momma left. Rain closed her eyes with a deep sigh. I need this… I want this… but… "River, I don't want to dump all my shit on you, man. This is my problem and hey… everyone's got problems. I'm no different." River slowly lifted his hand and touched the side of her face, "Yes you are… you're different." then gently cupped her face. Rain closed her eyes and nuzzled into his large palm. She kissed his inner wrist and then smiled as she lowered his hand back down, "Don't worry about me. I can take care of myself." Just being around you makes it worth while to stay alive. Lore and Fenix's eyes widened when Rain kissed River's inner wrist. Both thought of the same thing: Fenix did the exact same thing for Lore in the early stages of their friendship. "It all makes sense now… the similarities I share with them… they're my parents. My bio-parents." Fenix mumbled to herself. Lore came to that conclusion a while ago and smirked when he saw the shock on Fenix's face. He wished he could hold her but knew it wasn't possible in her dream. She couldn't hear, see or touch him. But something irked him. He looked at her parents and then to Fenix. There's absolutely no physical similarities or even traits with Fenix and her bio-parents. Lore noticed there was another shift in their surroundings.

They were back in Rain's house. He heard yelling between her and her father. He saw Fenix with Rain as she desperately wished and tried to even use magic to protect Rain from the broken bottles being thrown at her. I know it's useless but I gotta try! I gotta try something, anything to protect my mom! Rain's father grabbed her by the neck and began strangling her. "NO! STOP IT!" Fenix screamed. Lore clenched his fist knowing there was nothing he could to to help Fenix or Rain, "FUCK!" he yelled in frustration. Lore was seething as he watched Rain being strangled by her father. Rain struggled as she reached for an empty beer bottle and smashed it over his head. He momentarily became disoriented as Rain made her break. She bee-lined to her room and grabbed her getaway bag. Her father was about to get up as she kicked him in the stomach and ran out the door. Lore could hear Fenix and Rain's rapidly racing heart as their surroundings changed once again.

"We're outside River's house..." Fenix mentioned to herself and looked at Rain. Her face had started to bruise with small specks of purple freckling her face from being strangled. River quickly opened the door wearing only a pair of sweatpants. With wide eyes from sure shock, his heart broke seeing Rain in this state. Her nose was crusted with blood, her lip and left eye were swollen. "Get in, Rain." He kept himself in check as he grabbed a bag of frozen peas from the freezer and handed it to Rain, "Thanks, Riv." "Have a seat on the couch. I'll be right back." River briskly walked into the bathroom and fetched the medical kit. He kneeled down in front of Rain and began cleaning her wounds as gently as he could. She winced as the rubbing alcohol made contact with her cuts. After all her wounds were treated, she began, "Thank you… Riv." He didn't know how to respond in this situation but Rain asked, "I know I'm asking for a lot but…" He gently massaged her head, "Stay here as long as you want, kid. You're safe here, I promise. Just don't ever go back there again, ya hear?" Rain smiled softly, "Thank you." and grabbed his hand. He stood up to put on a shirt but Rain didn't let go of his hand. The swelling in her eye was still present and could tell she didn't want to be alone. "Riv... I know I've asked much already but… can you stay with me on the couch for a bit?" He sat back down and turned on the TV, "You hungry?" "Yeah..." "There's a few slices left in the box but if you want more, help yourself to whatever you want in the kitchen." She smiled, "Thanks..." and reached for the box of cold pizza. Lore and Fenix stood watching the two until the two on the couch both fell asleep.

Throughout the next eight months, school resumed and Rain was getting better grades. River was a writer and worked from home while she was in school. She insisted she kept working at the pub for extra income even though River always declined her money. Rain found a way around it by coming home with bags of groceries a week for the both of them. Even though it was within a twenty minute walking distance, he insisted on driving her to and from work since it wasn't the safest neighbourhood. River chuckled when he realized she didn't understand what basic groceries were seeing stacks of frozen pre-made dinners, chips and candy. Over time, her grocery picking skills improved as she began buying things he did. They spent time playing guitar and drums, respectively. One day, Rain came home with a Sega Master and introduced video games to River. The two played for hours on end some days. Lore noticed river had an aptitude for repairing pretty much anything whenever something like his car was showing signs of needing repair. He smirked knowing it was hereditary as he glanced at Fenix. Rain and River became closer and closer over time. One morning, River was making coffee like any other day when Rain walked into the kitchen and reached for a mug. Her small hand lightly touched his biceps causing his heart to race. She touches me more often these days. I need to stop myself from reacting to her so much. His cheeks blushed feeling ashamed for harbouring inappropriate feelings for the young teenager. This is so disgusting of me… falling for a troubled girl after I take her into my home to give her a safe home… I'm disgusting. Rain looked at him with shy eyes, a blush crossing her cheeks before she walked back to the living room. River couldn't take his eyes off her. Why is she blushing? Is she…? No. It's probably nothing more than a girlish infatuation. Grabbing a bagel, he put in the toaster. Don't think anything more of it. She's just curious, she's a teenager…

This was a different night, months have passed in Fenix's dream as her and Lore saw Rain got out of bed, unable to sleep. She tip-toed to River's room with open ears, she could hear River typing away in the dead of night. The soft sounds of 'Little Wing' by Jimi Hendrix was playing in the back ground. Wearing only a pair of sleeping shorts and a baggy hand-me-down she got from River, she stood at the entrance of the office and visually traced his lean yet broad shoulders. Those strong shoulders… how many times have I cried into those comforting shoulders…? Her feet were bare as she slowly walked up behind him and hand her small hand up his nape. River had heard her soft footsteps coming towards him but was unsure as to why she came into his room. He closed his eyes at the sensation, his voice was hoarse, "You can't sleep?" and cleared his throat. "No… I can't." He tried his best to stop his body from reacting to her touches. Rain wrapped her arms around his shoulders and touched her temple to his. "River…?" "Yeah..." "Thank you for taking me in… I've never been as happy as I am with you." Nuzzling into the side of her hair, smiled. "You're welcome." Rain let him go and slowly spun his chair to face her. He gulped unsure of her intent and the sight of her. Her face was free of make up, full lips, her hair free of hairspray, his large shirt drowning her small form. He blushed when he saw the curves of her perky nipples and averted his gaze. Rain braced herself on his arms as she sat down on his lap. "Relax, River… you're gonna break the arms on the chair." He unclenched his fists and looked up. I need to stop her. She's too young. She doesn't know what she's doing. I'm too old for her. Her legs dangled on the sides of his legs as she lifted her hands to his face. She slowly traced his features. Unable to fight the pleasurable sensations, River's eyes fluttered closed. Rain's eyes darted to his Adam's apple that moved down when he swallowed the dryness in his mouth. Her doe-like eyes traced his closed eyes, his straight nose and sensual lips then kiss him on the corner of his lips. River knew this was going too far but was unable to stop things from going any further as his his fluttered open to meet her beautiful brown ones. Lore could hear both of their hearts beating wildly. Fenix felt the love that had blossomed between the two as they got lost in each other's eyes. Rain slowly leaned in and pressed her lips to lips. River kissed her back with the utmost care. After the kiss she couldn't dare look him in the eyes knowing she had crossed the line and embraced as she wrapped her arms around his neck with a whisper, "I love you..." River shed a tear as he powerlessly kept falling harder with each second that ticked by with open arms, "I love you Rain." It's too late… There's no going back. No one in the room expect for Lore and Fenix saw the small orb of light that entered through the window and engulfed Rain. Their eyes widened. The RCE…

Rain and River knew their love was forbidden. She was still fifteen, he was thirty-five. Over the next two years, they kept their interactions minimal while they were in public. Lore and Fenix both witnessed the love the her parents had for each other. It's like watching myself and Fenix… Lore looked at her with kind eyes. Even Rain and River are playing guitar and drums to Hysteria as we have back on Omicron Theta. Taking every precaution to prevent their relationship from being discovered. He was the care taker of Rain, a runaway from her violent father. She never returned to her old home and her father had never cared to find her, either. It was one morning, Rain thrashed awake and ran to the bathroom. Barely making it to the toilet as she vomited. River walked in and held her hair as she finished, "I didn't think you drank that much last night…" and handed her a towel. "I didn't, I only had a few… weird." River noticed her appetite has grown incredibly over the past week. His face paled. Is she pregnant? How? We did everything we could to prevent it… Lore could smell Rain's hormones starting to change and his eye widened. Fenix is now growing in your belly as we speak, Rain. River watched her eat strawberry shortcake for breakfast happily. She doesn't have a clue… "Rain." She looked to him, "I think you need to do a pregnancy test." She dropped her fork, "I didn't even think that was possible. I-I-I'm on the pill, I never missed taking them, I swear! And y-you always use condoms! How!?" He sighed as his shoulders sagged, unable to find an answer. "I'd miss a period here or two so… I didn't think it was anything out of the ordinary this time… holy shit." Her brown eyes held panic as she tried to stay calm while she finished her cake. After school, she stopped by the local pharmacy and bought three pregnancy tests. Rain stared at all three tests she had just taken and waited anxiously. Her brown eyes widened seeing what she dreaded most. I'm… I'm pregnant… Oh my God… There's another life growing in me. Holy fuck… Another human is growing inside me. I'm so scared… She leaned over to the toilet and vomited. River knocked on the bathroom door, "Are you alright?" The sound of water flushing followed by a moment of silence before Rain answered, "Yeah… you can come in." River walked in and saw how pale she was and knew as she answered, "I'm pregnant." River embraced her to comfort her, "I know you're scared… as am I. But… it's harder for you since you're so young and your body's going through so many changes as we speak. Which ever you choose, I got your back, Rain. We can get through this." Rain smiled, "Yeah… you and me, right?" and he kissed her lovingly. Lore sighed realizing this was the official moment Fenix was conceived. The thought of it stirred something within him he didn't understand. It was strange for both him and Fenix to see all the events that lead to this moment. But one thing was still left unanswered: Why was Fenix abandoned?

It was April 18th 1988 as Rain was rushed into the emergency room with River holding her hand running beside her. Lore watched with intrigue. Another life is about enter this world… but it's not just any life… it's Fenix. She struggled a great deal giving birth. This pain was worse than all the times her father beaten her combined into this single moment and wished she could take a beating than go through with what seemed like the impossible. "Come on, Rain! You got this! I got you!" River encouraged as she gave one last painful push and a baby girl was born. Lore's chest felt full seeing the love of his life come into this world. Fenix is born... It was surreal for him and looked over to Fenix who stared in both intrigue and awe. He smirked knowing child birth scared the wits out of her. Rain held the baby girl, "Fenix Flarestone..." River tilted his head, "Fenix Flarestone Vogel… I like that." Lore looked at Fenix standing next to him.Baby Fenix opened her eyes and Rain looked at her feeling dread as she didn't share any features she or River had. I don't get it. She looks nothing like me or him. What is going on! Who is this baby!? Get it away from me, please... River sensed her distress as she handed the baby back to River, "What's wrong? Are you alright?" She shook her head, "NO! River! Look at her! She looks- she looks nothing like us! WHY!? Look! Look at her fucking eyes!" The nurse warned Rain to calm herself or she'll suffer more blood-loss. River peered into the bundle and saw something he never seen in his life, "Whoa… Her eyes are purple." "River! How the hell are you staying calm!? That thing looks… she looks NOTHING like us!" River looked at baby Fenix again and saw what Rain was panicking about. "Yeah… she doesn't look anything like us but she's a newborn, they all look kinda weird in the beginning." She shook her head, "You don't get it. She's not mine. She can't be..." River's heart broke as Rain regected the unusual infant and he stared at the bundle in his arms. She doesn't have any physical features of us at all… Nothing about her looks anything like us… I know Rain never cheated on me, there's no reason for her to do so. So why does this baby look nothing like us? But I don't care. She's part you and me. The doctor pulled River aside still holding the bundle and talked to him. Rain was severely suffering from postpartum psychosis. He knew it was up to him to care for the baby for the next few weeks as Rain needed to remain at the hospital for a while. Over the next week, he visited Rain in the hospital but her condition was worsening and she suggested to put the baby up for adoption. River knew a decision of this size isn't something that she could be making in her state of mind and held off on the idea. Seeing you in this state worries me and I don't know how to take care of a baby. I wasn't ready for this either. But I feel like I'm losing you, Rain. I feel… alone. Please. Please. Please. Come back to me Rain. Tears ran down his cheeks while he held baby Fenix who cried and cried as he wiped his tears. I can't do this on my own, Rain. Fenix needs you… I need you… Lore saw that River too, was not in a state to be taking care of an infant. He was too distraught over Rain losing her mind. Is this what would happen to Fenix if she doesn't complete the bond with Data? He looked at Rain who was now strapped to the bed to prevent harming herself. He winced at the bandages on her arms from self harm. Fenix had tears running down her face. Things are getting worse and worse for them… Rain was too young to have a kid. She wasn't ready, she was scared shitless. The RCE was strong and wasn't affected by any form of contraceptives. It also made me look nothing like my bio-parents. No wonder Rain is losing her mind. That just adds fuel to her scared state.

It was one rainy afternoon when River came to visit Rain but the doctors and nurses have seen on the cameras that she escaped and run off. River went back home with baby Fenix and waited in hopes for Rain to come back. A week went by as he tried to get any leads on Rain but everything was a dead end. Lore was stuck with watching River fall deeper and deeper into depression and worry as he tried desperately to take care of baby Fenix. He soon realized he was failing no matter what he did. She wouldn't stop crying no matter what he did. Fenix was with Rain when she ran away from the hospital while in her psychosis. She tried everything she could to help Rain to snap out of it but was powerless as she watched Rain drag her switch blade down the length of her forearm. Fenix cried as she watched the light in her mother's eyes darkened. Her surroundings changed and was with River at the hospital. Lore was relieved to see her again but realized tears flowed freeing as she stood still in a state of shock. Fuck I'm right here beside you and there's nothing I can do… Faloray was right… being powerless is pushing me to my limits. The doctor suggested River put his daughter up for adoption knowing he too, was suffering from his own issues of depression. He nodded and signed the papers. His usually vibrant blue eyes were dull as he sauntered out of the hospital. Lore, Fenix and River were back at his house. River couldn't stand being in the house as it reminded him of Rain. "Where did you go, Rain!?" He burst into tears and crumbled to the floor of the living room. A few days later River received news that his daughter was adopted by a caring and loving couple. He lit a joint and inhaled deeply, "I failed as an older brother to protect my little sister from my father… I failed as a husband for Rain… I failed as a father for Fenix… I failed. I have nothing left."He took another drag from his joint and left the house. Getting into this car, Lore and Fenix were sitting in the back. It was getting dark as River turned on the cassette deck and the song 'Don't Know What You Got (Till it's Gone)' by Cinderella was blaring and lit a cigarette. He drove by the pub where he and Rain had met the very first time almost three years ago. He smiled with tears in his eyes as he began singing along to the song at the top of his lungs. Lore understood the pain he felt as he too shed tears. Looking over to Fenix, knowing they couldn't see or feel each other, he still placed his hand on hers. Fenix, too was crying seeing her biological father completely broken. Lore noticed River had stopped singing as he wiped his tears away. He saw the headlights of an on coming on-road tractor and understood. Lore and Fenix braced themselves as River stepped on the accelerator. Without warning he turned the steering wheel to the left just enough to drift onto the oncoming lane. The on-road tracker blared the horns but it was too late. Lore and Fenix saw River turn into a crash test dummy as the truck collided into his Firebird. Everything went black for both Fenix and Lore.