The entire area as far as the eye could see was black and dismal. There was no noise, no light, nothing at all. It was almost as if the world had ended and this was all that was left. Black and hollow darkness.
Aelita slowly sat up off the floor as she grunted from the hard surface causing resistance and pain on her backbone. She breathed heavily as she gained her footing and balance. Where was she? On Lyoko? On Earth? Or was she dead? She waved her hand over her face to see if she could see it, nothing. She slowly walked forward as panic slowly drifted into her mind. All she could remember was opening the supercomputer and finding the box inside with the Crystal... after that she couldn't remember anything at all. Just waking up in this darkness. A world of Darkness, a world of coldness, a world of death.
Hello? She cried out as she began to walk forward.
Odd? Ulrich? William? She cried as the panic in her heart began to race more and more. She held her hands out in front of her as she began to run and panic.
Yumi? She cried as she heard not even a echo. Fear was beginning to rise in her.
JEREMY! she screamed at the top of her lungs as she fell to her knees into a heap of stress and tears.
No...No...I'm...I'm... She began to shudder as she was slowly accepting the truth. She curled up into a little ball and began to sob as she began to accept that fact that she was dead... This was it.. this was her ultimate fate. She cried in her hands as she wanted so bad to go back home to see her friends... to see him.
Aelita then noticed something. She could see her hands a little... she could see them more and more as a light appeared in front of her. She looked up to see a string of light right in front of her. She wiped the tears from her face as she approached it slowly. She reached out to touch it and felt warmth...light...Life.
Suddenly the light almost seemed to grow as it encircled and absorbed Aelita. She felt her body warming up as she was blinded by the light in front of her. As it dissipated she opened her eyes, her vision was incredibly blurry from light s intensity. As her vision slowly returned she realized she was standing in a room. A white room with a crackling warm fireplace, a large comfy looking sofa, and a large piano in the far corner.
Why does this look so familiar? Aelita thought. She walked over to the piano and played a small note as her fingers slid and touched the ivory keys. She looked around some more and saw there was a flight of stairs which seemed to lead upstairs. Aelita hesitated for a second. Last time she was in a place like this she was almost killed by Xana. When Xana made a complete replica of
Wait. Aelita said to herself out loud.. This is...This is...
Home, a voice said from behind her. Aelita slowly turned her head to see a tall old looking man with a large gray beard and a pair of thick goggle-like tinted eyeglasses. He wore a long white lab coat with a orange sweater underneath it. He had a face that haunted Aelita to this day.
Dad? Aelita said with a slight rasp in her voice. Dad, is it really you?
Yes honey, this is not a trick no more... this is not a dream... I'm finally here for you, Waldo said as he slowly made his way to his daughter. Aelita backed up just a little bit, still not convinced this was legit.
Where am I? Lyoko? Aelita asked.
No...we are inside the realm that is your mind. This is the world your mind has created, this is your paradise...your heaven, Waldo said.
A cold chill ran down Aelita's back at those words. Aas she...is she?
Am I ? she studdered.
Haaahahaha. No, my little princess...you re safe in the lab with your friends and Jeremy, Waldo said as he walked over to the chair next to the fireplace.
Then what is all this? Are you alive or what? Aelita said in a tone of anger.
...no. I am dead. But through the System I was able to leave my thoughts and personality to tell you what the System is... and what you are and the great golden age you will bring to this planet, Waldo said as he used a metal prod to poke and stir the fire.
So you re like a...message? Aelita asked as she slowly made her way over to the sofa.
Yes...sadly, Waldo said with a tone of despair in his voice.
What is the System? What is all of this about..? Aelita asked as she sat on the sofa.
At the beginning of time God created the universe. And at the center of the universe where the Lord focused all his energy created a tear a small droplet of his remaining energy which he sent to many parts of the universe to help spread life and create worlds. The System... at least that is how the prophecy goes, Waldo said as he sat up and walked over to the window.
So is it a source of energy? Aelita asked.
THE Source of Energy. I'm sure you may have noticed several... circumstances with you as you have been maturing, Waldo said. It can embody its energy into any form of life. Giving them wonderful powers... tremendous powers... or terrible powers.
What do you mean? Aelita asked.
Through out time wherever it has fallen it has brought both a blessing... and a curse. It has caused conflict... war... extinction... Armageddon.
Aelita leaned forward as she listened to her father.
The System is not an alien artifact or a object from the heavens. Every world that exists has one. Every world has a System, the Avatar and the Observer. The System can reenergize a world and turn it into a utopia... or it can destroy the world as it did several million years ago during the Permian era. When earth was just new, Waldo explained as he turned to face his daughter. There was a race on here long before man... a highly intelligent race. Years beyond mankind's.
The room suddenly shifted and showed a large lush and tropical jungle. The sky was blanketed and concealed by large trees the size of skyscrapers. The trees looked like nothing Aelita had ever seen before. They weren't one massive trunk, but multiple trunks and large twisted roots intertwined to form a massive and awe inspiring sight. Aelita could smell the air. It was a odour she had never smelled before. The smell of fresh rain water or clean, crisp air. It smelled as if a fresh storm had ran though. The ground she stood on was covered in grass and shrubs. Plants she had seen in museums and plants that looked almost alien. There was a bush covered in green and blue apple like fruit and had a large flower like bulb on top of it. She saw what looked like a rose with dagger like teeth in it. It moved slowly as it followed a large dragonfly like insect. Its mouth suddenly shot out and bit into the dragonfly as it buzzed and flapped in panic. The rose like fly trap drew the dragonfly inside the plant. It seemed to almost swallow the large bug as if it was a living animal. Aelita glanced out into the distance and saw a large swamp filled with all sorts of reptiles and amphibians. It was like a scene from Jurassic Park. There were large gator like reptiles and pig looking amphibians, and even creatures which resembled tiny dinosaurs. Aelita watched as a large dragonfly flew up to her and hovered over her head. She reached out to touch the giant insect as its head swiveled and buzzed. Before she could touch it, it flew away.
Is this real? Aelita asked in astonishment.
Sadly no. This is a recording of a past utopia. This world to you is a prehistoric jungle. But in the areas above it lies an early paradise, Waldo said as he pointed out to the top of the tree.
There at the very top sat a large structure. It was a glass like building, circular and round in shape and as smooth and glossy as glass. It looked as if it was connected to the tree, almost like it was created with the tree. The glass was like a diamond material which gleamed with the light of the sun bouncing off it into Aelita's direction. It was colorful and beautiful.
Suddenly Aelita felt her feet leave the ground. She glanced down and looked towards the ground, she saw that her toes where barely touching the ground. She soon looked up and saw that she was gaining speed and approaching the tree line. After a few minutes of flying straight up she came up to eye level with the building. She could see the amount of details in the structure. It was not made of diamond or some glass like material. It was made of some kind of liquid... almost like water. It also seemed to grow out of the top the tree. It looked like a large flower was holding the building in place. The flower was green with yellow and blue strips and spots all over its stalk and leaves. The building was stationed on the stalk of the flower and also seemed to be feeding it nutrients, inside the flower was water and small fish like animals swimming about the flower s interior.
This civilization was based upon the manipulation and co-existence with nature. They lived with the Earth rather than on it, Waldo explained as he pointed behind Aelita.
At first she saw tens... then hundreds... thousands...and millions. The whole planet was one mega city. She saw all types of buildings in all types of shapes and sizes. Some were like skyscrapers, others went higher into the stratosphere.
Aelita heard a random gurgling noise coming from behind her. She quickly spun around and saw the source of the noise. At first it sounded like the noise of some one gurgling water. Then it made a second sound, one which sounded intensely alien and yet so beautiful. She watched as a small opening appeared in the side of the water building and a purple glowing sting ray emerged. It looked like a manta ray, only it had a human shape to it. It had a small head with only one small white glowing eye. On its head there was a singular antenna that changed colors and seemed to glow.
Its skin was bony and rigid, instead of looking firm and solid, the creature looked like it was liquid based and fragile. It had with it a pair of small hands that it kept up close to its chest with 2 fingers on each hand, forming a type of prong hand. Green lights shot though its wings as it flapped in midair. Its wings also seemed to have a butterfly like effect on it. Almost looking like a butterfly like fish. It looked beautiful.
Aelita couldn't take her eyes off it for a second as it floated in front of her. It almost looked as if it was staring at her. She smiled a little as the creature stared right at her.
Can it see me? she asked out loud. The creature suddenly fully opened its wings, revealing the majestic beauty it carried. The colors in its wings flashed and glowed brightly as it made another cooing noise. The creature flew off as its noise seemed to almost echo in Aelita's ears. A noise she would love to hear again.
This civilization came into power on the planet millions of years ago, long before man and the dinosaurs. These sky fish lived in perfect harmony with the earth even learning how to control the weather and the planet s temperature through the power of the System. This, however, lead to its downfall, Waldo continued as Aelita heard the sound of thunder off in the distance. She turned to see a massive thunderstorm heading right towards them. Only this storm looked different. It had a few small shades of red in it. It looked as if it was really a giant fireball hidden in the clouds and it was heading straight at them. The sky fish began to panic and flee into their homes or flew under the tree line as the rain suddenly began to fall from the sky. Aelita saw that the rain was not the cool fresh water she knew in Amines. It was molten rock and hot acidic water.
The greed of using the System caused this civilization's government to hold their people hostage in exchange for services and profits. Luckily the people of this world managed to topple the corrupt government and free themselves but the damage has already been done. The system for this planet has been destroyed.
Suddenly bolts of lightning and balls of fire rained down upon the civilization. The buildings began to evaporate and explode as the sky fish fled in multiple directions. Aelita could hear the noise of the sky fish in pain... such horrid pain. She could feel every burn, every death. She felt it all.
Stop it...Please... I have seen enough, Aelita cried as she covered her eyes. Then she saw it, the sky fish from earlier. It was on fire and crying in pain... it hurt and shook Aelita straight to her soul.
STOP! she screamed as she tried to protect the sky fish. But it soon disappeared, replaced by their home once again.
Aelita shook from the thought of what she saw. She had just witnessed the extinction of an entire species.
The System's destruction would lead to the greatest extinction this planet had ever seen. Waldo said.
Wait...if the System was destroyed, then why is there one now? Aelita asked.
It was sent here by another world... A type of parallel dimension. Once the System in this world was destroyed, it arrived in another dimension to bless and create that world. But soon like the curse and trials of the System, it lead to a war of their own... So they sent it here, to your world... Waldo explained as the room changed again. Let me show you something else. It happened during my stay on Alaska in 1973.
Aelita found herself in a cathedral. It was a small grey and white cathedral with a few small roses in the lyles next to the pews. Aelita saw a small reception at the end of the room. She slowly walked towards it when she noticed Waldo was not with her. She looked around hesitantly and called his name. At the altar she saw him standing next to a tall muscular man who was wearing a tux, staring at who she assumed was the bride.
It was a wedding but whose? And why couldn't anyone notice her? Then Aelita noticed the man looked familiar. He had a small stripe of purple in his hair. Then it hit her.
Mister Della Robbia? Aelita asked.
I now pronounce you husband and wife, Mister and Mrs Della Robbia. You may kiss the bride the priest announced.
Edward leaned over and kissed Lisa on the lips as their friends around them applauded and clapped loudly at the joy of the newly weds. Waldo and Damon both sat to Edwards left as the newly weds walked down the isle.
Now that's a cute couple, Waldo said as Damon walked down the isle to the reception.
That are Odd's parents. They knew my father, Aelita said out loud.
But then where is my mother? she thought.
Guess that means its just you and me right now? Damon said with his usually southern accent.
The reception was filled with most of scientists and military individuals in the base. There was mostly pre made food that was kept in storage for the scientists at the base; it was still a good ceremony for a wedding that was closed in and isolated from the world.
And now the bride and groom I believe have something to say, one of the groomsmen said. Edward stood up and took the microphone from the groomsman as he removed his jacket and laid it on his chair.
Uh well first off I wanna thank everyone here for coming out and making tonight a great and wonderful experience. Second I have a serious announcement to make, Edward said as he took a drink from his wine.
A year ago as you know we had a serious issue with the object we are studying and my wife... leading to her incredible, colorful, and wonderful hair style. But I almost lost her to that incident. Which lead me to this decision today. I am 25 and a colonel in the French Army, quite a feat for someone my age... But soon we will be starting a family and I want to be there to see them grow up. I want to see them, and hold them with my wife, and I want nothing more then to give them the life I didn't have... therefore effective immediately I hereby resign from my post as a colonel of the French Army, Edward said as his wife took his hand. The announcement caused a lot of murmuring and talk in the parlor as to which people where both shocked and stunned at the announcement.
Even though my lovely wife argues that I should remain in the military, I have decided that I can not risk it in any shape or form. My wife and I have agreed to retire from this Vorseas Project effective immediately after this ceremony. As a way to start our honeymoon in Italy. But as we leave tonight, always remember that we could not of gotten to this point without the support of all of you and our friends, Waldo, Dr. Vance, Damon.. .and his dam bird Barney, Edward joked.
He's still better then you partner, Damon joked back.
Honestly... from both of us to you... you guys are our family away from our family. Thank you everyone, Edward said as he raised his glass.
_
Emilio stood at the command post with the rest of his crew. Most of the soldiers that had been assigned to guard the base were on leave to the local town, only 5 or so remained to guard the scientist. It was the perfect time to gain control of the project and hide what they were after properly... or was it?
A man with white hair and a nice black suit walked inside the room and stood behind Emilio.
Report Jerald? Emilio demanded.
From what the scientist deciphered from the symbols and texts on the crystal, what we want is what is exposed on the surface. The energy source is a perfect instrument to be used in our Project Carthage, Jerald said.
Are the engineers removing the object from the crystal? Emilio asked.
Yes. As for the second smaller crystal we believe its nothing, just a minor object... possible records or so, Jerald said.
Remove the System then, Emilio said.
In the main bay, where the majority of the work was being conducted, several engineers and construction workers who had been working diligently for months on excavating and removing the object from under the sea were now busy chiseling away the loose rock and strata from the newly recovered crystalline like prism. They where concentrating on one small area in question, a structure built into the prism that seemed to look similar to a shutter of a camera or something along those lines. It had 3 similar shapes on its sides. One was a triangle with what looked like a eye in the middle, the second was a circle with a eye in it and 3 lines on its bottom, and the final was a square with a large x in its box. The scientist hypothesized that this was some form of hieroglyph or ancient text from a lost civilization.
Estrada and his escorts entered the room and look towards their possession. He fixed his tie and walked towards the work site as 2 of his workers approached him. They where wearing hard hats and blue and orange jumpsuits. Around their waists was a large pouch with a series of tools and instruments.
Report, Estrada demanded.
We have removed a large amount of the crystal blocking the entrance to the main chamber. We were about to open the entrance when we heard you were on your way down sir, the worker closest to him said as he walked up the main board walk to the crystal.
Do it, Estrada said.
The main worker walked over and grabbed a large pry bar laying on top of a tool box. He walked over and felt around the crystal seem. He felt a small little crack that separated the different parts of the door. He placed the pry bar on top the crevice and held it in place as another worker smacked the edge of the pry bar with a large metal hammer. After a few hits the pry bar finally separated the doors. Three workers got behind the pry bar and helped force it open as the door slowly slid open. Inside was a small round corridor. The walls of the corridor were a shine of blue and gray, the surface was almost glass like and seemed to be made of some type of mineral like substance. One of the workers flashed a light inside the tunnel. Only for the entire tunnel to light up as if there where high powered lights in the walls and floor.
Estrada stepped inside the corridor as Jerome and 2 other workers followed inside. All 4 where speechless in what they saw and noticed. Inside there where the same symbols and shapes that where on the outside of the structure. Emilio continued inside it until he came upon a altar. It was a reddish blue color that had small slivers of green inside it. On the top part of the altar was a flat surface which held on top of it a round crystal looking object.
At last, Estrada said as he reached out and touched the glowing crystal orb.
Mister Estrada, no! It could be dangerous, a worker said.
Estrada didn't listen, he picked up the orb with both of his hands as the color on the crystal dimmed.
At last all that hard work, all that searching and it was right under our nose, Estrada said. Now all we need is the Avatar and we will have the ultimate weapon, Estrada whispered to himself.
Jerome walked up with a metal brief case as Estrada wrapped the orb in a white cloth. The System is ours, Estrada said as he placed the orb into the box. I'm flying out with it... you know what to do. Jerome nodded as he reached into his pocket and pulled out a small silver device.
Estrada walked over with his suitcase and boarded the golf kart. Everything was ready... everything. _
Aelita looked around the wedding. She was enjoying the sights and sounds. Although she remained a ghost, she was learning a lot from what was happening. Her father looked so young and healthy as opposed to how she knew him years later. He had traces of white hair instead of the grey hair he had when she remembered. He looked and acted younger and more naive... similar to her. All right, everyone. I need every single female in the audience to step forward as we prepare to toss the bouquet, The DJ said as most of the female scientist stood up and walked forward onto the floor.
Hey Wally...get up there man, Damon said jokingly.
Shush up, Waldo said as he chuckled from the joke. Waldo stood up as he checked the time on his watch.
Where are you going? Damon asked.
I gotta get some fresh air. Waldo said as he suddenly felt something hit him in the head. He looked at the floor as he noticed a large bundle of flowers on the floor. He picked it up only to hear several women scream at him. Then he realized what he had done.
WALLY! YOU CAN T GRAB THAT! one female said.
I guess we know what that means, Damon joked.
Aelita heard some strange noises behind her as she saw Waldo step out onto the balcony of the room. She saw Odd's father follow him out. She decided to follow them.
Wonderful ceremony man, Waldo said as he patted Edward on the shoulder.
Thanks, Edward said as he gazed out at the frozen Arctic Ocean. Here in a little bit Lisa and I are gonna fly out and enjoy our honeymoon in Italy. We won t be coming back, Waldo, but I wanted to let you know... if you ever need any help in any way shape or form, let me know, Edward said as he handed Waldo a business card with his name on it.
Rumor is Lisa might already be pregnant... any truth to that rumor? Waldo asked.
Edward nodded.
Don't tell Damon though...He thinks its odd enough. Edward said.
You should name your kid that, Waldo joked.
Actually I like that name. A voice said from behind them. They both turned around to see Lisa walking towards them. Odd .Della Robbia... its got a nice ring to it.
You ready dear? Edward asked as he kissed her on the lips. She nodded in agreement.
They hugged Waldo and bid him farewell as they walked out and informed the party they were leaving. After several long goodbyes and farewells they walked back to their rooms and gathered their luggage. Edward walked into his room and changed his clothes and grabbed his suitcases. He laid them on the bed as he heard the door behind him open up.
Can t believe I m gonna miss you, partner, a voice said from behind.
I'll miss you too, Damon, Edward replied.
If you re ever in the great state of Texas... let me know, Damon said.
I will pal. I will. Edward said as he hugged Demon. Sure they had some problems and issues in the past but they were still close friends. Even if they had issues with each other s views on the parrot Barney.
Edward walked over and petted Barney on the head as Barney squawked a little.
I miss you, Barney said, repeating a line Lisa said when Edward talked about leaving.
A few minutes later, Edward and Lisa where leaving the base and on their way to the local airport to begin their life anew. On their way to the airport Lisa leaned her head on Edward s shoulder.
I'm gonna miss them. Lisa said.
I got a feeling we will be seeing them again dear... we will, Edward said as he wrapped his arm around her.
_
The large helicopter landed on the helipad as 7 men armed with sub machine guns transported a large metal box on wheels to it. Behind the men Estrada approached with a small radio like box in his hands.
Estrada watched as the men loaded the chopper with the box before getting in themselves.
Has all the preparations been made? Estrada asked.
Yes, sir. The bombs are in place and teams are standing by to evacuate the people at the wedding party. Jerome said.
As for the scientist and the laborers in the main bay... liquidate them, Estrada said as he lit a large cigar and shut the door. The helicopter then proceeded to take off, leaving Jerome on the helipad. Jerome reached into his coat pocket and pulled out a large radio.
All units... Code tan.
In the main bay the laborers were preparing to pack up their tools and return to their rooms. No sooner then the chief technician had packed up his tools when the main bay doors opened and several of the scientist were rushed in by armed guards in black. The scientist were screaming in fear as the guards aimed their weapons at them.
What the hell is going on? One of the technicians was surprised.
Chris walked in and stood behind the gun men, wearing his sun glasses and smoking a cigarette.
Ladies and gentlemen... thank you for your loyal service. Now die as the pigs you are, Chris said smugly.
The gun men then aimed and opened fire as flashes from their weapons flared wildly.
Main floor sanitized... moving on to phase two.
Jerome walked into the wedding reception and informed everyone of a minor gas leak in the main hall and was ordering a immediate evacuation. People began to panic as they fled to the nearest heliport. There, 7 large helicopters sat ready to received the evacuees. Jerome watched as the last person from the party fled onto the heliport and made her way into that chopper.
Not counting the Della Robbias who left...were short 2... doesn't matter... the bombs will take care of the rest, Jerome told the lead security officer as he boarded the final chopper.
_
Aelita saw Damon and Waldo were walking back to the party when they noticed how quiet the main hall to the labs were. They looked inside and didn't notice a thing.
Must of all quit for the night, Damon thought as Waldo walked in front of him.
So just you and me now bud? Damon asked
Looks like it, Waldo said as he checked the time on his watch. The party should be getting over soon... Wanna just head back? Waldo asked.
Yeah, I m tired anyways... thank God tomorrow is a day off huh? Damon asked.
Yeah, I m tired of running 80 hours on only 20 hours of sleep.
Waldo turned to head back to the room when he noticed how dark the main hall was. It was almost pitch black. Waldo knew that the main hall was always lit up all the time for security reasons... yet he didn't think anything of it until he saw something. It looked like a person laying on the floor. They were wearing a lab coat and laying on their face. Waldo waited for the person to move, but they didn't.
Hey Damon...you see that? Waldo asked.
Damon looked down to where Waldo was pointing and noticed what Waldo was pointing at.
Looks like someone fell asleep down there. Damon said as he peered through the glass. That was when Damon noticed the other people on the main floor laying on the ground in various positions. Damon started to look around for any sign of movement. He saw none.
Lets head down there and see what is going on Wally, Damon said as he lead the way down the main cat walk and into the bay. Their was a eerie silence in the bay... it was so quiet you could heard a pin drop on a pin. The air was stagnant and warm. It smelled as if fireworks had gone off in the room, there was also a strange smell. A smell that was almost like rotten cabbage or cheese... it was enough to cause Waldo to gag a little. Daemon could see some form of liquid on the floor. It didn't seem like it was water, but more or less some type of red fluid. Waldo looked around for a light switch. He found the main control panel and turned on the large red lever to illuminate the bay. What he found to his sight was a large amount of dead bodies lying around in a almost straight line. The sight of it almost made Waldo throw up. He had never seen a dead body before.
What? Damon said in disbelief. What happened here?
They weren't just killed... it looks like they where executed, Waldo murmured.
_
The helicopter was already 15 miles out over the sea and approaching a large ship with a flight deck on the back of it. Inside the chopper Estrada stared at the large box the security guards had placed inside the back of the copter. He pulled out a large cigar out of his coat pocket and lit it up. He drew in one large puff into his lungs and exhaled as he reached for the device.
With this... it all starts with this. A jewel containing the ultimate power of the universe... I will rewrite the world and bring forth a golden age for man... no more governments... no more war... only a business... a business about running the world. Lets see that fool Razor top this! Estrada laughed.
Sir, all teams are out the facility is evacuated, one of the guards said.
Perfect... time to begin changing the world, Estrada said as he pulled the trigger on the remote.
_
Waldo looked around for any signs of life in the lab. He bent over many of the numerous bodies and checked their pulse, only to be met with the same result every time. Dead.
We gotta go, man... we gotta get some help, Damon said.
Waldo agreed but he didn't want to leave all these poor people behind. He walked to the other end of the room and looked around for any clue to what had happened. He looked around near the back end of the main fuel tanks which held the fuel for most of the vehicles used inside the base and the D.. He then noticed a small faint beeping noise. He glanced around towards the back end and discovered what it was, what he saw froze his skin and his soul down to the core.
Damon... it s a bomb.
WHAT! Damon shouted.
There s C4 all over the fuel tank in the back... it s set to blow any minute now! Waldo said in a panic.
I'm gonna go grab Barney and we need to get the living hell out of here! Damon said as he ran towards the living quarters.
Waldo ran behind him when he heard a slight pinging noise. He turned in time to see a fireball engulf the entire room. Waldo saw the fireball spread to the other gas tanks before he saw it.
He ran and jumped into the nearby room which held the smaller crystal and shut the door. He heard several loud explosions before he felt the room around him shift and shake. He saw the floor itself begin to droop in as it suddenly sank into a large hole directly under the crystal. Waldo saw the hole get bigger as he grabbed onto the desk to try and keep himself from falling in. the desk began to slide towards the hole as Waldo tried to claw his way up the now vertical floor. He managed to grab an extension cord that was attached to the wall. He watched the crystal fall into the hole and disappear in a mist of melting snow. Waldo felt the cord shake and give in as it came undone from the wall. Waldo then felt himself falling down the hole as he saw the walls of the building disappear, replaced by walls of snow and ice.
The world around him was blurry and quiet as Waldo finally came to. He could barely hear anything around him, all he could see was 2 inches in front of him as his vision finally came back slowly. He could smell the fresh fires burning away at the building above him. He could hear the fire raging as he attempted to sit up. Intense pain ran though his body as he planted himself up next to the desk were he had attempted to grasp onto only moments ago. He glanced around the snowy cavern as he noticed the crystal sitting in the corner and more debris from the building. He glanced up and saw how deep the hole really was. There was no chance of climbing out of it... not in his condition. It was hopeless.
So... this is my grave, Waldo said as he closed his eyes.
He then noticed a very dull light from the crystal. He opened his eyes to see the light getting brighter. It got so bright he could hardly look at it. He covered his eyes as they began to burn from the intensity of the crystal's light. He began to breathe heavily as his vision was now a bright blur. Then he noticed a slender figure walking towards him. It approached him slowly and carefully. Waldo couldn't make out any details. He could only see the shape in the light. Then he noticed it had long flowing hair. It got closer until he could make out that it was a woman, and he could barely see a face. She wore a purple one piece suit which seemed to be made of some type of metal like material. Her hair flowed in the wind caused by the fire. He then noticed it was pink... bright pink. It got closer and knelt down next to him. He could now see her face she was beautiful... A soft smile graced her face as she put her hand on his shoulder.
Are you...an angel? Waldo asked.
No... I'm not... but are you harmed, the woman replied.
A little...but who are you? Waldo asked.
Aelita watched the whole thing as she saw the figure emerge from the crystal. Her eyes widened as she realized who it was. Her eyes filled with tears as she remembered that face and that voice, one that had haunted her in her dreams for years.. Her heart raced as she let the words slip from her lips.
Mom Aelita said.
My name is Antea. I am the Avatar of the System.
The... System? Waldo asked in disbelief.
Yes... I have come from a world at war thanks to the sacrifice of my parents to help this world into paradise...but where may I ask am I? And may I ask your name?
Wal- Wald-Waldo Schaffer, Waldo said still amazed at what he was seeing.
Are you My Obsever, Waldo Schaffer? Antea asked as she tilted her head to the left. Where are we Waldo Schaffer?
Uh... no, just Waldo . we re in a hole caused by a explosion Waldo said, forgetting the events which lead them down here.
Then we shall leave this hole and retrieve the system... we have much work to do, my Obsever Antea said as she helped him up.
Before Waldo knew it, they were out of the hole and standing in the entrance of the building.
Wait... how? Where ? Waldo said in confusion.
It is called Sight Deportation. I moved us out of that hole and here on solid land... but I can not do that again, I regret to inform you that I used the last of the powers the System granted me to leave the hole, I must find the System so I can reenergize. Where is it? Antea asked as the snow began to fall slowly from the sky.
I think it was lost in the fire, Waldo said as he glanced at the newly destroyed Science wing.
No... The System can not be destroyed... I can sense it but it s far away and moving farther, Antea said as she looked towards the west. I must find it.
WALDO! a voice rang out from the distance. Waldo turned to see Damon and his parrot Barney running towards him. He wore a leather coat and had Barney in his cage.
Damon! Waldo said as Antea began to walk to the west. Wait, where are you going?
I must find the System...who is this? Friend? Antea asked.
Who the hell is this? Damon asked.
Squawk...Pretty lady Barney squawked.
Oh what a beautiful animal. Antea said as she peeked down at it.
You re not gonna believe it Damon... but she came out of the smaller crystal you recovered at the bottom of the ocean.
WHAT? You hit your head hard or something mate? Daemon asked.
No but we should leave, Waldo said as he lead the trio over to the garage. Damon opened it to find the snow mobiles untouched from the blast. He glanced over at the fuel tank next to the shed to find a similar device that had destroyed the base. But it was not blinking, in fact it looked as if it was frozen.
Let s hurry before that thing goes off, Daemon said as he started his snowmobile. He placed Barney in front of him as Waldo sat on another. He glanced over to see Antea staring with a little concern on her face.
What s wrong? Waldo asked.
Is this contraption safe? Antea asked.
Trust me this machine is safe and sound... you can trust me.
Aneta slowly sat on the back of the snowmobile and held on to the rails.
Wrap your arms around me. Waldo said.
Antea slowly wrapped her arms around his waste as the snowmobiles left the shack and drove off into the snowy night, soon to disappear from sight of the base.
So...that's how it happened, Aelita said when the room with the fireplace showed up around her again.
That is how I met your mother, a voice said from behind her. She turned fast to see the face of her father she knew all to well.
My mother is the Avatar... it s passed down genetically? Aelita asked. Waldo nodded.
Eventually I forged papers for your mother... and then we were married and you were born... you where the best thing to ever happen to me and your mother. She called you her little elven princess, Waldo said as he revealed one final scene for her.
Aelita glanced around at yet another snow covered area, only this time there were trees and bushes around her. She then noticed a small wooden cottage up on the hill. Smoke rose from the chimney as she walked towards it. She had seen this house before but she couldn't place it... then she remembered.
This is... my home, Aelita said as she began to run faster towards the cottage. As she approached she heard the faint sound of a young child laughing. She walked around the backside of the house as she saw a small 4 year old girl with pink hair wearing a thick coat and playing in the snow. She sung a faint song as she rolled up a snowball with her hands.
It s me! Aelita smiled at the sight of herself. Her younger self had the same short hairstyle as she had now. She had rosy cheeks and purple ear muffs over her ears. She smiled as she rolled up a large snowball and set it up right.
Aelita then heard a door open as she saw her mother and father walk outside the house. They held each others hands as they looked out towards their young daughter who was rolling a second snowball.
Are you sure you gotta go dear? Can t that stupid computer wait? Antea asked.
I know hun... I don't wanna go, but if we re gonna fight Mal-Tech, we need to fight fire with fire, Waldo said. I won t be gone too long.
Look at her, Antea said. So innocent... so happy. We should have another, Antea said as she hugged Waldo.
I'm ready... and I think Aelita is too, Waldo said. She doesn t have many friends around here.
When she goes to school next year, she will, Antea said.
You know I don't wanna send her If Mal-Tech found her...
They want me... they wont want Aelita till she hits maturity.
I cant loose you... or her. Waldo said as he kissed his wife goodbye.
Hey honey, bring back some cookies. I m sure Aelita would want some, Antea smiled.
YAY COOKIES! Mister Puck and I love cookies, Aelita said.
I ll be back dear, Waldo said.
Aelita and Antea waved goodbye to him as he pulled out of the drive way and drove off. Antea watched as her husband drove down the long gravel drive way and left drove onto the main road and slowly made his way into town.
Mommy! Come build a snowman with me, Aelita chirped.
OK sweetie, but not too long, it s about time for you to go in. It s gonna get dark soon, Antea said as she walked over to her beloved daughter.
A few moments later a fully fledged snow man stood in the drive yard. Complete with hat, arms, scarf, and a face.
You think he will come to life like frosty mommy? Aelita asked.
He might dear, if you believe he may just come to life, Antea said.
I hope so mommy... I hope he can be my friend like Mister Puck and Daddy's Friend, Aelita said.
Daddy's friend? Antea asked.
Yeah, the one in the big box down in the basement, Aelita said as she threw some snow in the air.
Well you never know Aelita... anything is possible, Antea said as she stood up.
Your friend? Aelita asked, confused.
You must have found out about the A.I. I had developed to help run our computer in the basement, I guess, Waldo answered warmly. For a child of your age, you understood quite a lot.
LOOK MOMMY A BUNNY! Aelita said as she pointed to a small grey and white hair sitting in the yard looking at them.
Ah you re right... He is looking at us, Antea said. The rabbit hopped up closer to the women as it sniffed the air around it, it hopped up and looked straight at Aelita. The timid little pink hair girl slowly bent down to pet it, at first the rabbit jumped back a little. But after a little coaxing from the young child the rabbit finally moved in and began to sniff her hand. Soon it rubbed its head around her hand as Aelita giggled with excitement.
Can we keep it mommy? Aelita asked.
We can t dear... He needs to go back to his family soon. But I m sure he will be back, Antea said as the rabbit suddenly ran off fast. At the same time Antea heard a car door slam, she glanced up expecting to see Waldo back so soon... instead she was greeted by a black sedan with 5 men dressed in black.
Oh no... oh God no! Antea thought out loud. She grabbed Aelita and ran inside the house. She glanced back to see the 5 men already close upon her. She slammed the door inside the house fast and locked it as one of the men banged loudly against the door.
Mommy, I m scared, Aelita cried.
Go hide Aelita...were we always practiced... go baby, Antea said. Aelita ran up and hugged her mother and cried silently.
I love you mommy.
I love you my little elven princess...now go...GO! Antea shouted as Aelita ran to the living room. She grabbed Mister Puck who was sitting on the sofa and pulled back the carpet. She then lifted up the wooden door on the floor and sat inside it. Shutting the door, she then reached through the wooden great and tugged the carpet so it was over the door. Antea ran in after locking the door and fixed the carpet so that it looked as if it was untouched. Antea turned in time to hear the door shatter and the 5 men stepped in.
You assholes just picked the wrong mother to mess with, Antea said as she took up a defensive position. On of the men walked forward and stepped in front of the group.
YOU! YOU TOLD THEM? Antea shouted.
I'm sorry...they were gonna kill Samantha, the man said.
YOU BASTARD! Antea screamed as she kicked the man square in the chest, sending him backwards. Another man walked forward and attempted to subdue Antea. Antea met him with a palm to the face, breaking his nose. She then punched him square in the stomach and sent the man flying on to the floor. Antea grabbed a small table light on and swung it at another one of the agents, she hit him square across the face and flipped him over the couch. Antea then scissor kicked the agent whose nose she broke, flattening him on the ground. Antea then felt a pair of arms around her shoulders. She jutted her head back, hitting the man in the mouth, breaking several teeth. She then kicked the agent in the nuts and kicked him again in the face. Antea grunted as she stomped on the mans face.
Suddenly Antea turned to see a needle in her side. She pulled it out in time to suddenly feel groggy and faint. Her feet felt as if they had just been removed as she fell to the ground, paralyzed.
Get up you idiots, find the girl! one ordered.
Right away, Mister Chris, one agent said.
Antea? Miss Schaffer...or is it Hopper Chris said. Where is our I mean, your daughter?
Kiss...my ass, Antea murmured. Chris kicked her hard in the stomach.
Very well... take her, Chris said. And you...you better find the girl.
Aelita opened the door to the small hiding spot as she peeked her head out and looked around. She heard the car outside start up as she poked her head outside. In the car she saw her mother looking back at the house. The car then sped off fast as Aelita attempted to chase after her.
Mommy! Aelita shouted as she tried to follow, but the car was too fast.
MOMMY! Aelita shouted. She tried to run as fast as her little legs could let her. Tears streaming down her cheek and fear in her heart.
Antea glanced in the rear window as she watched her daughter... her pride and joy running as fast as possible. Tears streamed down Antea's cheeks as her daughter became nothing more but a spec in the distance.
Aelita finally stopped. She fell in the snow crying as she realized mommy was gone.
Night had fallen on the woods, the cold frigid air grew colder as the temperature continued to drop. A owl screeched in the distance as a small cold little girl walked through the cold snow.
She was tired, she was hungry. And she wanted her mommy.
Who was those bad men who kidnapped mommy... and why had they taken her? she wondered. And would she see mommy again?
She could still see the fear in Mommy's face as the car drove off. Every time she thought of that moment she cried more and more. The realization finally hit her innocent mind.
Mommy was gone and she was not coming back.
Suddenly Aelita heard a noise behind her... she turned and saw a large grey and black wolf close behind her. It was twice as big as her and kept starring at the poor child. Aelita at first thought it was friendly. She slowly approached it only to be met with a loud growl and a row of snarling teeth. Aelita turned and ran as the wolf howled as it gave chase. Aelita ran hard and fast as she could hear the wolf close behind her. She could hear it snapping at her as she ran. Aelita screamed loudly in fear as ran past a tree. She crawled under a log as the wolf ran into the solid fallen oak. It sat their dazed but not out of the chase.
Aelita looked around. She needed to hide. She could hear the wolf coming. She then noticed their was a tree with a large hole in it. It was just big enough for her to fit in. Aelita climbed inside and positioned herself as far from the entrance to the hole as possible. Aelita covered her mouth as she tried to remain as quiet as possible. She could hear the wolf outside sniffing around, but she couldn't see it.
Suddenly the wolf s head appeared in the hole...it had found its prey. The wolf barked and snapped at Aelita, but the young girl was to far out of the wolf's reach for it to grab a hold of her. The wolf snapped and clawed at the hole as it tried to make it wider. Aelita screamed as she awaited for the wolf to get her. She cried for Mommy or daddy to save her. She cried for someone to save her.
A loud gun shot rang out as the wolf suddenly ran off. Aelita opened her eyes as she heard a second gun shot. She heard someone outside, painting loudly as she also saw the light of a flash light on the ground.
Aelita! A voice called out. A voice she recognized.
Daddy! Aelita yelled as she began to climb out of the tree. As she climbed down she saw her father running towards her with a shot gun in his hand. He dropped the gun and bent down to hug his daughter. Tears formed in his eyes as Aelita cried loudly.
Men took mommy, daddy. Men took mommy Aelita cried as Waldo held his child in his hands..
Why did you show me this? Aelita said with tears in her eyes.
Because you need to remember this moment when the time comes. All you have seen, all the errors and mistakes I have made, can be undone in the next few weeks, Waldo said as the world faded back to the darkness Aelita arrived in.
What do you mean Daddy? Aelita said as she failed to notice what was going on.
You have a chance to fix everything. Your mother, The System, and your freedom. You and your friends have the chance to find and free them all.
You mean... Mom is alive? Aelita asked with large eyes.
Yes... you must find her. Find her and save her, Waldo said as he began to fade away.
Daddy, wait! Don't go! Aelita yelled as she ran up and hugged him.
I will never leave you... I will always be with you, and I will see you again one day.
I ll save Mommy... I ll save everyone... Aelita said as she bawled her eyes out.
I love you, my little princess And I m so proud of you, and happy for you and Jeremy Waldo said. As he began to fade faster.
I love you too, daddy... goodbye! Aelita shouted as the entire world lit up and faded in a bright light. Aelita saw her father rise into the sky and fade in the light. Tears flowed from her face as she realized. She had lost her father again, but this time she had a chance to say goodbye.
Aelita's eyes slowly opened. Her body felt surprisingly refreshed and energized. She didn't feel pain or soreness. She felt as if she had her first peaceful night's sleep in ages.
Aelita glanced around as she stared at the ceiling of the factory. She slowly sat up to see if anyone was around. She caught sight of her best friend at the computer as usual. She was so happy to see him, even though he hadn't noticed she was awake, she was just glad to see him.
Jer...Jeremy Aelita said groggily.
Jeremy turned around fast and saw Aelita sitting up on the cot. His eyes grew wide with happiness and surprise to see his best friend awake and well.
Aelita! Jeremy shouted with excitement as he got out of his chair and ran to her. He hugged her to Aelita's surprise. At first she was a little embarrassed, but after a few seconds closed her eyes and wrapped her arms around him.
I was so worried you weren't gonna wake up, Jeremy said as he pulled back to see Aelita's face.
How long was I out? Aelita asked as she rubbed her eyes.
7 hours. I was so worried, Jeremy said.
What happened? I remember the crystal in the computer but... Aelita trailed off
I'm not sure what happened either. We'll talk later.
Jeremy... I know what happened to my mother. I know what the System is and what I have to do. I saw my father, Aelita said.
Jeremy's eyes widened as he tried to compensate what Aelita just said. You saw him?
Yes... I finally got the chance to say goodbye, Aelita said.
Well, we got trouble... Xervix knows where the System is and he wants to use Code Earth to come and retrieve it and you... and apparently me, Jeremy said.
Send me to Lyoko. I have to stop this, Aelita said as she walked to the elevator. Jeremy ran over to it as the elevator rode down to the scanner room. The elevator door opened revealing a open scanner in the corner.
Aelita, are you sure you wanna do this? Jeremy asked.
You guys are my family. I won t let any of you suffer the same fate as my father. No one will, Aelita said.
As she prepared to step inside the scanner, Aelita felt a hand grab her on her wrist, she turned to see Jeremy starring at her.
Please come back, Aelita. Please come back to me, Jeremy said slowly.
I will, I promise. Aelita assured him.
She moved closer to Jeremy as Jeremy began to turn red. Aelita looked up at the only person in her life who mattered more than anything to her. Almost every time she was in trouble or needed his help he was there, every time. Her very own knight in shining armor. She leaned forward to his lips and closed her eyes. She felt her lips touch his once more. It felt incredible. Even better then before. She felt his hands wrap around her waist as he pulled her in closer. Aelita wrapped her arms around his neck as she felt bliss and joy fill her entire body. She loved this. She realized how much she loved him.
Jeremy finally let go as Aelita stepped inside the scanner. The scanner s doors began to close as Aelita finally said the one word she had always wanted to say to him.
I love you, Jeremy.
Jeremy heard the words dance in his ears as he watched the doors to the scanner close. Before the doors sealed he shouted the words he had always wanted to say, the words he thought he would never say.
I love you too, Aelita!