The Games of Moriarty

by Ragnarok777

Xana is gone. Victory has been achieved by the Lyoko Warriors. But a simple test to understand William's nightmares of Xana unveils a new enemy: Moriarty. This evil entity wishes to play a series of games that shake the Lyoko Warriors to the core.

14. Chapter 14

I took longer than expected again. Sorry. But I just got back from a crazy cross-country with some friends to Wyoming and I'm preparing to go to college. So it's a wonder I was able to do this at all. Anywho, please read and review. I do enjoy reviews. And go to Wyoming some time. It's nice. Also, give partial thanks to my editor, Neon Lice. If not for his nitpicky ways, I would have made several content errors.

Part 29

Jeremie silently watches as his own private dormitory is transformed into César's personal dumping ground. Felipe and a few of his fellow bodyguards carefully but haphazardly place the prince's multiple belongings in the room. César opens Jeremie's closet and scratches his chin.

César: No hay espacio (There's no space). We're going to have to fix that.

He throws a few of Jeremie's clothes onto his bed. Jeremie is still staring at the scene with confusion and shock.

Jeremie: So…you're the change in the 'rooming arrangements'?

César: Si. Somos compañeros de cuarto mi amigo. (Yes. We are roommates my friend.)

César throws one of Jeremie's old boxes onto the bed. More suitcases arrive. Jeremie starts to get frustrated.

Jeremie: Okay, first of all, I didn't understand a word you just said. Second of all, you can't just throw my stuff all over the place. Who do you think you are?

Felipe: How dare you address his majesty in such a disrespectful-

César: Felipe-He signals for him to stop. He's right. I was a tad bit bold coming in here. Perhaps I shouldn't have brought so much stuff. He brushes the thought aside and shrugs. He picks up the things lying on Jeremie's bed and gives it to Felipe. Please fold this up for Jeremie's convenience. Felipe walks away. But as to who I am, I thought Felipe already explained it to you.

Jeremie quickly recalls Felipe's words. His eyes widen.

Jeremie: You're….you're a prince.

César: Si.

Jeremie: You're…royalty.

César: Si.

Jeremie: From Spain…

César: Si.

Jeremie: A teenage prince, the heir to the Spanish throne…is my new roommate.

César: ¡Por la ultima vez, si! (For the last time, yes!)

Felipe presents Jeremie with a new assortment of folded clothes, better organized than they were before. Jeremie marvels at the speed and neatness from César's bodyguard.

Jeremie: Um….thank you.

Felipe: De nada (You're welcome). A friend of his majesty is a friend of mine. He turns his attention to the prince. Now would you like us to bring your personal and luxurious twin bed?

César gives him a harsh look.

César: Por supuesto no (Of course not). You know I don't like being pampered. Give me one of the regular beds that the students use here.

Felipe: Very well. Then I assume you don't want your custom-made Turkish silk pillow?

César: Now let's not get crazy here….

A horrendous shrill noise echoes through the halls. Jeremie quickly covers his ears. Felipe and his bodyguards seem to be on alert, but their reactions suggest that they understand the situation. Felipe looks outside the door.

Felipe: Your majesty, la ola está viniendo. (The wave is coming).

Jeremie: La what? What's happening?

The shrill noise comes again. Jeremie can now tell that it is a massive scream coming from a large group of girls. A large group of girls that seems to be headed in their direction.

Felipe: It's going to be hard for us to hold them off. You might want to make your exit.

César: Tienes razón. (You're right). He turns to Jeremie. May I borrow your window?

Jeremie replays the request in his head. He fails to process it.

Jeremie: My…..window?!

Before Jeremie gives his approval, César jumps onto Jeremie's desk, narrowly avoiding his computer. He opens the window and starts to step out. Jeremie's mouth drops.

Jeremie: What are you doing?! This room is three stories high!

The crowd of girls attacks Jeremie's doorway. The guards do their best to block them off. Felipe looks back.

Felipe: His majesty is an expert in acrobatics. Particulary for escape purposes….

César inches his way out the window and onto the ledge. He moves toward one of the pipes running down the building. Jeremie pops his head out the window and stares at his roommate in horror.

Jeremie: ARE YOU INSANE?!

César thinks over the question for a moment.

César: …Un poquito (A little).

He slides down the pipe with ease and lands on the ground. Jeremie watches in wonder as his royal roommate struts through the campus as if nothing happened. Shortly after the incident, a large crowd gathers around the prince in the courtyard. The majority of the crowd is female. They push each other for a chance to meet him. Felipe keeps them at a comfortable distance.

Felipe: ¡Dios mío! (My God!). This is almost as bad as the mob that attacked him in Rome.

César smiles at the crowd and does his best to turn no one away. He calmly absorbs the attention, making it clear that he has dealt with this before. He parts his black hair with his hand and assumes the role expected of him.

César: Chicas, chicas. Calménse(Girls, girls. Calm down).There's no need to rush. We have plenty of time to get to know each other.

Sissi runs onto the scene, bowling over her rival females. She immediately gets into César's face, much to his chagrin.

Sissi: Oh my God I can't believe this is happening! As soon as I heard you were coming I nearly died from excitement! I promised Daddy I would keep it a secret but the suspense was KILLING ME! BUT NOW YOU'RE HERE! Oh how do you like it here? Do you speak French? How was your trip? Do you always have this much security? My name's Sissi. What are your parents like? What's your typical day like? How long are you staying here?

César winces at this interrogation. He rolls his eyes.

César: Stupendo. Una de las locas. (Great. One of the crazies)

Mr. Delmas approaches César. He immediately shakes his hand. Moriarty follows close behind.

Delmas: Prince César, welcome to Kadic Academy. I hope you enjoy yourself here, and that the crowd is not too bothersome.

César: Oh, it's fine sir. His expression becomes numb and slightly downcast as the girls continue their screaming. I am used to this after all….

Moriarty: Hello, my name is Dr. Renard, and I will be your history teacher here. I am also overjoyed that you are here, although I must admit that I was not informed of this until…He coughs and glares in Delmas' direction…recently.

Delmas: Oh yes. Delmas gives Moriarty a sly and innocent look. I supposed it just….slipped my mind.

Moriarty: Well, I would certainly hope that doesn't keep happening. We can't have a principal slipping, now can we?

Delmas smiles at César and avoids looking at Moriarty.

Delmas: Yes….I suppose you're right. Anyway, if you need anything, let me know. One of the girls bumps up against him. For the love of God, have some decency. He looks at César again. Jim will help you with the rest of the arrangements.

While the principal and Moriarty walk away from the crowd, Ulrich, Jeremie, and Yumi watch the response from a distance.

Ulrich: Well, school just got a little more complicated.

Jeremie: My life just got a little more complicated. The guy is sleeping with in my room. Knowing my luck I won't get any sleep. Girls are going to be clawing on the walls to get to him.

Ulrich: Yeah, it's really pathetic. One Spanish prince shows up and all the girls start completely losing their minds. I can't believe they would just start crawling all over him.

Yumi puts her hands on her hips and gives her boyfriend the look.

Yumi: Oh really? The girls are losing their minds? Doesn't that seem to be a bit hypocritical?

Ulrich: What are you talking about?

Yumi: Does Brynga ring any bells?

Ulrich immediately looks guilty. He adjusts his shirt collar.

Ulrich: Uh….maybe a few.

Yumi: Because I seem to recall every guy in school drooling over themselves after that Icelandic diva…you being no exception.

Ulrich: Okay, so I might have been affected by her a little…

Jeremie: Alright Yumi, we get it. Criticizing the girls' reactions would be hypocritical. Besides, we shouldn't even be focusing on it. We have bigger problems to worry about than the girl craze over this guy. It's not like it's going to affect us. Just because some dashing prince shows up doesn't mean we have to be jealous, Ulrich. We should trust our girlfriends more than that.

Ulrich sees reason in this and nods.

Ulrich: Yeah, we are better than that. Let's not be jealous like the girls were when Brynga came.

Yumi scowls at Ulrich.

Yumi: Hey, who said we were jealous?

Ulrich: Yumi, you looked like you wanted to claw her eyes out.

Yumi folds her arms across her chest.

Yumi: ….Can't say I didn't consider it.

Jeremie: Enough you two. Let's stop pointing fingers. We have been through too much to let César ruin our relationships. We must have faith in each other. Why, I know that Aelita would never- He looks over to see Aelita talking with César. She laughs. Jeremie's eyes widen. Aelita!

Aelita: It's such a pleasure to meet you. My name's Aelita. Welcome to Kadic. I hope the girl mob didn't rattle you too much.

César gives her a devilish smile.

César: Not at all. I love meeting new people, regardless of whether they are crazy over me or not. However, sometimes I love to meet some people…He motions to her…more than others.

Aelita smiles and blushes slightly.

Aelita: Oh well….um….t-thank you.

César: Has anyone ever told you that you have beautiful pink hair, cariña?(Dear)

Aelita: …..Not…..recently.

Yumi pats Jeremie's shoulder as he restrains the urge to panic.

Yumi: Faith Jeremie. Remember, faith.

Jeremie: Right. He's just a prince who is far more athletic and better looking than I am and has a kind of charm that few girls can resist. No big deal….

Ulrich: The bigger question is how is this going to affect Moriarty's classes? Someone like him could seriously impact how Moriarty can manipulate the students. Did you see Moriarty talk to him? He didn't look too happy. Maybe he will screw up his work.

Yumi: Or drastically improve it. If Moriarty can get him on his side, the consequences could be terrible. Everyone might join in.

Jeremie paces the courtyard, shrugging aside his jealousy to think over this.

Jeremie: He's a wild card. No doubt about it. Someone with that level of influence can make or break us. For the moment, he is completely up in the air. He has no idea what he has walked into. If Moriarty can get him on his side, we are in trouble. But if we can make him Moriarty's enemy, he could prove very useful.

Yumi: Then we'll have to keep our eyes on him.

Ulrich: I can only hope that you plan on doing that for the sake of the mission only….

Yumi: Oh will you shut up already?

Jeremie: Anyway….we just need to make sure our prince doesn't get into the wrong hands.

César is escorted to class by Felipe. The mob of girls follows.

Ulrich: Assuming the girls don't kill him first…

Yumi looks off to the side and smiles.

Yumi: Not all the girls are going crazy over him.

Jeremie: What are you talking about?

Yumi: Take a look.

Yumi points to a bench under a tree where Natalya and William are sitting. They sit at a distance, but their heads are locked on each other. Both of them are laughing, but it does seem to be a little forced. Natalya twirls her hair awkwardly, while William makes a nervous habit of rubbing the back of his neck and tapping his knees. A fall breeze blows through the air, causing the branches above them to shake. A moving shadow of leaves is cast over them. The two talk nonchalantly, watching the other's reactions to their words carefully. Natalya holds the latest issue of the Kadic Herald in her hands.

Natalya: The things those two little witches are writing about you and your friends…..it's not right.

William: I know. There's nothing we can do about it though.

Natalya: Have your friends read it yet?

William: No. César's entrance must have made them forget to pick up a copy. Not that they would want to read it…

Natalya breezes through the article.

Natalya: 'Mental stability of antisocial gang at Kadic brought into question….numerous sightings of strange behavior…..hostility and opposition to class experiment'….William this is terrible. They can't write stuff like this!

William: They can and they will. With faculty sponsor Dr. Renard in control, they can trash us all they want.

Natalya squeezes the paper in her hands. The veins in her forehead pulsate with anger. She tosses it into a trash can.

Natalya: Our classrooms, the paper, and possibly even the school itself. How can Renard do this and get away with it? What is the deal with him?

William: I wish I had the answer Natalya.

Natalya punches him lightly in the shoulder. William winces, but the strike was clearly playful.

William: Ow.

Natalya: You do have the answers. I know you do. You just won't tell me.

William: How can you possibly tell that I'm lying?

Natalya: Let's see…..you avoid eye contact with me, you pause before saying the lie, your movements become restricted, you begin to tap your fingers nervously, and you force yourself to smile. She shakes her head. For someone who lies so much, you sure are bad at it.

William purses his lips together, unable to deny what Natalya is saying.

William: I admit it's not something that comes to me easily.

Natalya looks at the ground

Natalya: Why are you lying to me?...Why can't you just tell me the truth?

William leans back on the bench, uncomfortably lost in thought. He glances over to Natalya several times. She gives him a piercing stare, hoping and praying that he will open up. She scoots a little closer to him. William taps his foot on the ground and looks away. He closes his eyes and frowns.

William: I just can't.

There is a brief silence. A dejected Natalya turns away in frustration. She exhales through her nose.

Natalya: I get it…..you don't trust me.

William opens his eyes and quickly shakes his head.

William: No, it's not that.

Natalya gets up from the bench and starts to walk away.

Natalya: See you later.

William: No wait.

William grabs her wrist and stops her. She reluctantly turns back around.

William: It's not that I don't trust you. Really, I know that I could tell you anything. You've helped me when you had no idea what was really going on. You've gone out of your way to help me and my friends when you had nothing to gain from it. You refuse to follow the crowd and side with Renard. His hand moves from her wrist to her hand. I've seen a side of you that everyone else is too ignorant to see. The way people judge you is so far from the truth. I know that I can trust you. If there's anyone I trust outside my own circle, it's you. His face contorts with frustration. Please understand….it's nothing personal-He stops himself, thinking over his words. He takes a deep breath. No. I'm lying. It is personal.

Natalya suddenly looks more hurt. Her voice becomes shaky.

Natalya: Personal? What do you mean it's personal?

William: It's personal…because I want to protect you. Natalya's face goes from hurt to confused. William stammers. I d-don't want you to get hurt. I am hiding the truth from you for a good reason. I want to protect you….from the truth. You see it's personal because….His throat becomes dry and his voice shakes. He summons all his courage to continue to speak…..I care about you. He pauses for a moment. And that is not a lie…

Natalya stands there next to the bench, letting William's words sink in. She runs them through her head several times to make sure that she heard him right. Her eyes widen. Color rises to her cheeks. She runs her fingers through her hair. She gazes at William and smiles warmly. Her hand wraps around William's tightly.

Natalya: William I-She sits down next to him again. Her heart races. She musters the courage to touch his shoulder. Then she gently touches his face. William opens his mouth, but no words come out. He can only blush. Natalya loses herself in the moment. Her eyes lock onto him, as if in a trance. I care…..about you too. A lot actually. You're nothing like…..like the other guys I've met. And….and-She rubs her head. I don't even know what I'm saying anymore. All I know is you're different. She leans close to him, brushing her hair against his neck. And I like different.

As Natalya gets closer to him, William's mind becomes confused and lost. Thoughts pound his head at ninety miles an hour. His heart rate picks up dramatically. At first he seems to be letting the moment take control. But a warning shoots through his mind at precisely the right moment. He lightly stops Natalya with a touch of the shoulder. He gets up, refusing to look at her. He sighs.

William: Like I said, I want to protect you.

William walks away, leaving Natalya to sit there sadly, having been so close to intimacy. As he sadly heads off to class, the familiar voice enters his mind once again.

Xana: Slave, I believe we have unfinished business.

William groans with exasperation.

William: Again with the perfect timing…

Xana: If you are referring to your romantic failure with the Russian female, my interest could not be more nonexistent.

William: Then why should I be interested in what you have to say?

Xana: Because it may mean the difference between victory and defeat against Moriarty.

William looks around. He walks under a portico, making sure that no one is around to hear this conversation with himself.

William: I'm listening.

Xana: When I told you that my sole purpose was to help you defeat Moriarty, I wasn't limiting myself to merely saving your life.

William: Your point?

Xana: I can give you an edge the other warriors don't have.

William stops walking.

William: Explain.

Xana: You are familiar with the powers available to someone who is possessed by either me or Moriarty?

William: I am.

Xana: I have enough power to give those to you. I could give you that kind of power. You would have the same power without the chains of possession. Imagine what you could do…..what we could do. You could almost be Moriarty's equal on Earth. Any attempt from him to kill you could be thwarted. You would be an indispensable ally to your friends, and a terror to your enemies. The growing allies of Moriarty at this school wouldn't dare stand in your way. You might even be able to face Moriarty himself and destroy his human form. To be brief, the odds would be heavily in your favor.

William twists his face in thought. He stares at a window, looking at his reflection. He stares at his own pupils. The thought that Xana dwells behind those eyes and inside his mind disturbs him more than usual. He lowers his eyebrows.

William: So let me get this straight….You are trying to offer me power. A kind of power that caused Odd to be possessed by Moriarty and later develop PTSD. The same kind of power that caused Jeremie to go insane and nearly take over the world. You are offering me a power that has a very bad history among us. And you possessed me for nearly six months and came close to enslaving humanity. In other words, I am being offered a curse from an enemy that unfortunately lives in my brain. And you're saying that I should trust you and accept this offer?

Xana: …I sense a large amount of uncertainty from you.

William: Oh I'm certain alright. I'm certain that I can't trust you.

Xana: I'm assuming then that you are declining.

William: I don't care how much of a threat Moriarty is. It will be a cold day in hell before I ever trust you to help me again.

Xana: Your biblical expression bores me. But I can't say that I'm surprised. Your reaction was expected. Your ridiculous concept of morality and your hatred for me made my chances of convincing you slim. However, there will come a time where you will have no choice but to accept my offer. And you will have to acknowledge that I'm your only hope to defeat Moriarty.

William enters one of the buildings, slamming the door behind him.

William: Fat chance.

In the lunch room, the group sits around their usual table. The atmosphere is tame, devoid of the usual anxiety and stress. William buries his head on the table, refusing to lift his head. Ulrich pats his shoulder.

Ulrich: Oh don't worry man. She'll come around. They always do. Right Yumi?

Yumi smiles nonchalantly.

Yumi: I suppose.

Aelita: What went wrong?

William: The truth went wrong.

Jeremie: …..You mean the mission got in the way?

William: Yep. He sinks his head lower. I can't risk her getting hurt. If Moriarty knows I have this weakness, he will exploit it. I wouldn't be able to live with myself if something happened to her.

Jeremie cleans his glasses, thinking over Jeremie's words.

Jeremie: I admire your decision William. Sacrificing your feelings to save someone else is something we have had trouble doing ourselves.

William: Thank you Jeremie.

Jeremie: Of course, if Natalya continues to defy Moriarty in class, it won't matter. She'll be a target anyway.

William groans.

William: Thanks a lot Jeremie.

Aelita: She's definitely interested in you. When we're in our room together, she asks about you a lot. She also seems to be really frustrated with you at times. Unfortunately I think your relationship with her has made her suspicious of us. She knows you're lying.

William: I hate lying. I hate lying to her.

Yumi: In a perfect world, you wouldn't have to hide anything from her. But this is far from a perfect world, William.

William: I tried really hard to avoid any relationships. I knew that it was going to be a problem as long as Moriarty was alive. I tried to not develop feelings for anyone, but she came around and…He hits his fist against the table. And it happened in spite of me.

Aelita lightly touches his arm.

Aelita: We're so sorry William.

William: Forget it. Let's change the subject.

Jeremie: Okay- Jeremie leans forward in his chair, eager to comply with William's request and move on to more serious matters. I think it's time that I tell you what happened in Delmas' office.

The interest at the table immediately skyrockets. Even William manages to raise his head to listen.

Aelita: Yes, what did he say?

Yumi: Are we in trouble?

Ulrich: Has he sided with Moriarty or is he a victim?

Jeremie: Calm down everyone. All your questions will be answered. Although it might take some explaining so I might as well start from the beginning.

Jeremie begins to tell the story. The scene changes to a flashback in which Jeremie is sitting uncomfortably in the chair in front of Delmas' desk. Delmas sits across from him, his face grim and brooding. He lightly scratches his beard. At Jeremie's side is Hans Klotz, who appears to be vibrant and animated. He speaks to Delmas with confidence. There is an almost aggressive edge to his voice.

Klotz: Mr. Delmas, with all due respect, this was just a minor psychological outburst. Jeremie Belpois is fine.

Delmas: Minor psychological outburst?! Jim Morales had to restrain him!

Klotz: So he says. No offense, but doesn't Jim Morales have a habit of exaggerating the truth?

Delmas looks off to the side.

Delmas: True…but Suzanne Hertz does not.

Klotz: I agree with you. But as a psychologist, I cannot sit back while you try to make a decision involving a student's psyche without consulting a professional such as myself.

Delmas: Hans….I appreciate your input but-

Klotz: This is clearly a result of school stress slowly wearing the mind down. This kind of episode was the only means to release all that stored anger and anxiety. Now that he's released it, he should be fine.

Delmas begins to chafe from Klotz's authoritative talk.

Delmas: I fail to understand why you are so eager to defend him when you two have had…..a rather complicated history.

Hans coughs and puts his hands together in a pensive pose.

Klotz: Upon further reflection, sir, I do believe I have misjudged Jeremie. My initial desperation from the school file incident made me rash. But now that Dr. Renard has helped me recover the files, I believe it is time for me to act like the adult. So I'm asking you on Jeremie's behalf not to expel him.

Delmas: I see. Your opinion is noted.

Klotz raises a threatening eyebrow.

Klotz: My opinion…..and Dr. Renard's.

A scowl forms on Delmas' face. Jeremie can sense restraint emanating from his body. Delmas looks away and motions toward the door.

Delmas: If you would excuse me, I would prefer to continue this conversation with Mr. Belpois….alone.

Klotz remains in his chair for a moment, haughtily delaying his exit. Eventually he gets up.

Klotz: Of course.

He walks out, taking enough time to glower at Jeremie before he leaves. Jeremie is overcome by a wave of hatred and disgust. He quickly masks it and appears humble and contrite before Delmas once again. Delmas taps his fingers on the desk. There is a tense silence.

Delmas: Well, here you are again Jeremie.

Jeremie: Yes sir.

Delmas: You have gotten yourself into quite a sticky situation. Some of my colleagues question your sanity. He takes a glance toward the camera in his room. Which makes me wonder if I should punish you or recommend your removal from the school.

Jeremie looks at his hands.

Jeremie: I would prefer punishment.

Delmas: I know you would. But something is wrong, and I have to do something. He examines Jeremie closely. You don't appear to be insane to me. He leans back in his chair. But then again, neither do your friends. And there have been sightings of them acting strangely as well. Perhaps I should just punish you. It's possible the strain of all these events is just wearing on you. Suddenly the power goes out. The sunlight brightens the powerless room. Jeremie looks up in surprise. Of course, you and I both know that there is more to this story than that.

Jeremie: Uh….power's out.

Delmas looks up in fake alarm.

Delmas: Oh dear. That's rather odd. Our electricity is usually so reliable. A shame when these things happen. But they do happen, don't they Jeremie? They are random. They can happen anywhere. You can't predict them, right Jeremie?

Delmas smiles at him strangely. Jeremie blinks and looks at Delmas with confusion. Jeremie can tell that Delmas appears to be very nervous.

Jeremie: Yes….that's right.

Delmas: Would you excuse me Jeremie He gets up and opens his door. Nicole, is the power completely out?

Nicole: Yes sir.

Delmas: And the cameras?

Nicole: Out as well sir.

Delmas: How disappointing. He closes the door. As soon as the door is shut, Delmas sprints over to the window like a wild man. He pulls the blinds completely over the window. The sudden darkness catches Jeremie by surprise. The room instantly becomes ghostly and secretive. Small rays of light peek through the window. The light casts an eerie pall over Delmas, who seems to be more and more on edge. He breathes deeply, trying to calm himself. He once again looks at the camera, looking for any signs of life. When he sees none, he turns back to Jeremie. His voice trembles. We don't have much time to talk. He slowly sits down. Jeremie…..I am frightened.

Jeremie doesn't reply. A million thoughts race through his head. His initial reaction of concern is replaced by a growing hope that his principal may be an ally. But that feeling is then replaced again with uncertainty. He restrains his hopes and swallows.

Jeremie: Of….what sir?

Delmas' voice becomes tense and belligerent.

Delmas: You know very well what. Him. That manipulator. That charleton. That sociopath. Dr. Renard.

Jeremie says nothing. He lies in wait, allowing himself to hear what Delmas has to say.

Delmas: In all my years, I have never dealt with something so terrifying. Renard-He finds it difficult to speak-is taking over here. I no longer have control, I- He points to the dark room- I'm a prisoner in my own office. I-He covers his eyes with his hand in an expression of helplessness-I don't know what to do.

Jeremie watches as the most powerful person at Kadic unravels before him. Delmas' glasses hit the table. The principal stares at the floor. A fist hits the desk. He curses in front of his star pupil several times. Jeremie continues to watch, stunned by the display. He works up the courage to speak.

Jeremie: Sir, I can't tell you how sorry I am. I know it must be horrible to be in your position.

Delmas glares at him, his eyes burning with strength as the rest of his body languishes.

Delmas: I have allowed myself to become his puppet. A moral weakness of mine has made me his hostage. All of France loves him. He now has scheduled several more appearances on talk shows to discuss his 'exploits'. The students are being brainwashed by him. He is transforming them into something His voice becomes weak-something terrible. The board fawns over him, and every time I try to get them to see reason, they just start acting possessed and sputter non-

Jeremie interrupts.

Jeremie: Possessed?

Delmas pauses.

Delmas: Well yes. Ever since the trustees had a meeting with him, they have just gone with whatever he's said. He groans. He has me beaten on every front. On every front…except…

He stops. Jeremie leans forward, burning with curiosity.

Jeremie: Every front except what?

Delmas looks up, composing himself in the face of humiliation. His face moves from self-pity to intense ferocity and aggression.

Delmas: Every front…..but the school itself. Students and teachers. He stares at the fingers on his right hand. He appears to want to form a fist. Although a lot of teachers have abandoned me He grimaces including that traitor Klotz, and many students have followed him, I know that he has not won over everyone. I know that I'm not alone. That's why I can trust you. For whatever reason, Renard seems to have a thing against you and your friends. I don't pretend to understand why, but I honestly don't care. The important thing is….the enemy of my enemy is my friend.

Jeremie begins to smile.

Jeremie: I agree sir.

Delmas: I don't know why you acted the way you did, but I know Renard was involved.

Jeremie: We were drugged.

Jeremie covers his mouth, immediately regretting blurting out the truth. Delmas' face contorts with rage.

Delmas: YOU WERE WHAT?!

Jeremie is speechless. Delmas roars and grabs his phone.

Delmas: Forget my career, I'm calling the police!

Jeremie: Mr. Delmas, no! He blocks the phone. Don't do it!

Delmas: Get away Jeremie! I need to set things straight. I can't hide any longer!

Jeremie: You're going to incriminate a respected high school teacher who has become a national icon without a single scrap of evidence save a few witnesses that could be easily discredited?

Delmas pauses, thinking over the situation. He then curses and abandons the phone.

Delmas: I CAN'T DO ANYTHING!

He sulks down into his chair. Jeremie remains standing.

Jeremie: That's not true sir. There is always something you can do.

Delmas: If there is, I can't think of- He stops speaking. He quickly remembers something. Light comes back to his eyes, but it is quickly clouded over by doubt. There is…..one thing.

Jeremie puts his hands on Delmas' desk.

Jeremie: What? What is it?

Delmas: It was one of Jim's ideas. It sounded crazy at the time, but I'm starting to think it might be necessary.

Jeremie: Tell me!

Delmas takes a deep breath.

Delmas: Moriarty has formed The Order. I was willing to accept the communist experiment, but now things are beginning to become very strange. Students are really getting in to this experiment. I've been told even the younger grades are beginning to join in. They are starting to hang around Order members only. The group isn't even a week old and already they are starting to act differently. I don't know what he is planning, but it can't be good.

Jeremie: So what does this have to do with the plan?

Delmas: If Renard is going to form an organized group to take over this school, I say that we act in kind. I told you that there are those who despise Renard other than ourselves. Well, two can play this game. Let's fight fire with fire.

Jeremie begins to work over the idea in his head. It steadily begins to grow on him. He suddenly feels bold and empowered.

Jeremie: A group of students and faculty to counter the Order.

Delmas: Yes. What do you think?

Jeremie jumps at the question, not stopping to think about it.

Jeremie: Yes. Do it. We need to stop him.

Delmas: Are you sure? Are you willing to support me in this, even if it means isolating yourself from the rest of the school and putting yourself at risk?

Jeremie shows no emotion.

Jeremie: I already am. My friends and I have already become outcasts. But with your group idea, we coud become outcasts united against a common enemy.

Delmas scratches his beard.

Delmas: Outcasts…..interesting. Very well, I will tell Jim to begin the preparations. Spread the word and wait for the signal.

Jeremie narrows his eyebrows with confusion.

Jeremie: Wait. How do I spread the word? I mean, who can I trust? And what signal?

Delmas pulls something from his desk. He holds up a purple patch. It is the fleur-de-lis, the traditional symbol of France. But this fleur-de-lis has two swords crossed through it.

Delmas: Do you know what this is?

Jeremie: No…..I don't.

Delmas: This is the future insignia of the Order. He shudders. I knew they were going to take this too seriously. Gustave Chardin has been working on this for several days. My daughter spotted it during art class. He holds it closer to Jeremie. Renard is handing these out soon for committed Order members. Those who refuse to wear this patch are considered trustworthy.

Jeremie nods, approving the genius of Delmas' plan.

Jeremie: And the signal?

Delmas leans forward, almost whispering in Jeremie's ear.

Delmas: Don't ask me what day or what time, but very soon the bell tower will chime at an ordinary hour. The chime will play the song "A World Without Danger". That will be the signal. We will assemble secretly in the gymnasium at that time.

The power turns back on. Delmas quickly changes his expression.

Delmas: As your punishment, you must help Nicole organize files in the morning on Saturdays. And stop by every so often, so I can keep an eye on you.

Jeremie nods, getting the memo from Delmas that it is time to leave.

Jeremie: I'm very sorry sir. It won't happen again.

Jeremie ends his story. The group stares out the window, looking at the bell tower.

Ulrich: So…..we're not alone here.

Jeremie: No. We will fight Moriarty wherever he appears, whether it be Lyoko, the Network, or even Earth. But on Earth we can't win this fight alone.

Yumi wraps her left hand around a fist formed by her right one.

Yumi: We'll give his Order a run for their money.

William: Don't get too cocky. We'd still be outnumbered.

Aelita: True. She looks out the window toward the bell tower. But at least we won't be alone.

Later on, Moriarty stands in his classroom alone. He straps a digital watch to his wrist. As soon as it is set, he walks to the door. He opens it and then stands off to the side. He takes a glance out the door and then starts his watch. The 9th grade class pours in. They move quickly but quietly, getting into their seats and assuming a formal posture as fast as possible. Within a few moments, the entire class is seated and staring at Moriarty. Moriarty stops his watch. He looks at the numbers and smiles.

Moriarty: Well done students. 9.8 seconds. That's a two second improvement from last time. He struts around the room. You're getting better at this. So much better at this.

The class is silent. Jeremie, Ulrich, and Aelita watch uncomfortably from their seats, mentally numbing themselves for what is to come. Moriarty raises his eyebrows.

Moriarty: You may accept my compliment now.

All: Thank you Commandant.

Moriarty smiles.

Moriarty: You only speak if requested. Good. Discipline is coming naturally to you. He holds up some tests. And it's beginning to show. He hands them out with pride. You've more than made up from your last failure.

Hushed celebrations filter through the class as the tests are received. Odd's Clone leans over to see Ulrich's test. He turns to face the front without any emotion.

Odd's Clone: Enemy subject's strategy progressing further than spectral entity theorized.

Ulrich: What makes you say that?

Odd's Clone: Warrior subject Ulrich Stern's performance improved from mediocre to average.

Ulrich furrows his eyebrows.

Ulrich: Are you…..insulting me?

Odd's Clone: Undisputed fact is insulting?

Moriarty: I hope that you understand what discipline can do now. He walks down the aisles. The students, with a few exceptions, all face forward and refuse to glance in his direction. They wait for their teacher to direct them. Moriarty walks back to his desk. So I've disciplined you to some degree. You have discipline. You have purpose. But discipline and purpose are not the only things you need. What else do you need?

Herb raises his hand. Moriarty calls on him. Herb stands up.

Herb: Commandant, com-

Before Herb can finish, the door flies open. The figure of Prince César enters the doorway. He carries a satchel over his shoulder and his violin in the other hand. He looks at the room without a hint of guilt. He rubs his chin.

César: Parece que llegue tarde. Lo siento. (It appears that I am late. Sorry.)

The prince goes to find a seat. Moriarty eyes him with clear annoyance.

Moriarty: Thank you for joining us your highness. A few people chuckle, but César just seems to enjoy it. Would you be kind enough to speak our language during class?

César bows.

César: Of course. I would never think of purposely trying to stand out in your class. He sits down next to Isabel. He nonchalantly looks in her direction. ¿Cómo estás, señorita? (How are you, miss?)

Isabel smiles.

Isabel: Muy bien, gracias. (Very good thank you)

César: ¿O, hablas español? (You speak Spanish?)

Isabel smiles and blushes.

Isabel: Un poquito. (A little)

César: Pero tienes un accento portugués. Espero que no seas portuguesa. No puedo coquetear con chicas portuguesas. Es una de mis reglas. (But you have a Portuguese accent. I hope you're not Portuguese. I can't flirt with Portuguese girls. It's one of my rules.)

Isabel: Soy brasileña. (I'm Brazilian)

César gives her a devilish smile.

César: Gracias a Dios. (Thank God)

The class chuckles at this performance, even if they don't know what's going on. Moriarty lowers his eyebrows and taps his foot on the floor. As César continues to chat her up, Tobias, who is sitting behind her with Lucas, also gets annoyed.

Tobias: Oye, vivo en Texas. Puedo hablar español también. No eres especial. (Hey, I live in Texas. I can speak Spanish too. You're not special)

César: O estadounidense. ¿Cuál es el problema? Tienes celos? (Oh, American. What's the problem? You jealous?)

Isabel giggles and Tobias turns red with embarrassment and anger.

Lucas: N-not celos. Totally j-j-jealous.

Moriarty coughs loudly. César looks innocently at Moriarty.

César: Oh you mean that rule applies to speaking to girls as well?

The class laughs. Moriarty calmly accepts this remark and continues.

Moriarty: Since you're new here, I'm going to let that performance slide. As you may have already been told, we are experimenting with far right politics. That means there must be discipline and order at all times. Sit up straight like the rest of the students. Pay attention. And moreover, you must address me by my facist title.

César: Franco?

Moriarty: No! My title is Commandant.

César stands up to address him.

César: My apologies, Commandant Franco.

Moriarty bristles at the prince's arrogance while some of the class laughs. Others who are more loyal to Moriarty stay quiet and give the prince dirty looks, which of course he ignores. Aelita nudges Jeremie with her elbow.

Aelita: This is already going well.

Jeremie: I know. I wish I could film this.

Moriarty: ….Herb, would you be so kind as to finish where we left off.

Herb stands up again. He is unfazed by the comedy in the room.

Herb: Commandant, community.

Moriarty: Thank you. Herb sits down. The atmosphere suddenly becomes serious. César sits there quietly to watch what this teacher has been blabbering about. I mentioned community before, but we did not give it the emphasis it deserved. But that is going to change now. He gives the class a deep, probing look. What is community? What does community mean?

He points to Nicholas.

Moriarty: Poliakoff?

Nicholas: Commandant, it's uh….um it's- He scratches his head.

Moriarty: No, no. Sit down and try again. Think before you stand up. Nicholas obeys. Now try to answer.

Nicholas rises from his seat.

Nicholas: Commandant, people deciding to live and cooperate and stuff….

Moriarty: Good. Your answer could have been clearer but good. It's voluntary cooperation and unity. A group of people who may be different but decide to live together in spite of their differences and work for the common good. It's a team.

He looks at Theo.

Moriarty: Theo, you play soccer, do you not?

Theo: Yah….yes Commandant.

Moriarty: And as a team, what do you have to do to win?

Theo: Work together I guess…

Moriarty: Excuse me?

Theo straightens up.

Theo: Commandant, work together.

Moriarty: Are you equal in talent to everyone on the team?

Theo: No Commandant.

Moriarty: No? Moriarty fakes surprise and disapproval. Then how does that community work?

Theo: Commandant, we Theo thinks hard, frustrated by Moriarty's constant questioning. Finally a light bulb goes off in his head. We push each other….to get better. Competition among teammates helps us beat the other team.

Moriarty claps.

Moriarty: Well done. Couldn't have said it better myself. He raises an index finger in the air. Not collective mooching but collective strength. In a community you are part of something larger than yourself. You feel that you belong, and that you have purpose. Do you see how purpose and community can work together so beautifully? And more importantly, now that you have discipline, can you not see how discipline and community can work together?

The class has become lost by Moriarty's profound lecture. None of them answers. Moriarty sighs.

Moriarty: I'm guessing that's a no.

César stands up with his usual arrogance.

César: Commandant, you are correct.

The class laughs. Moriarty brushes it to the side again.

Moriarty: Funny your highness. Very funny. But perhaps we need a demonstration. Who is the strongest in this room? He looks around and ponders. He quickly points to Ulrich. Ulrich, get up here.

Ulrich looks back to Aelita and Jeremie for advice, but they shrug and simply send a silent message to be careful. Ulrich obeys and walks to Moriarty's side.

Moriarty: As you can clearly see, Ulrich is no weakling. He is most likely the strongest in this class. Wouldn't you agree?

All: Yes Commandant.

Moriarty: Herb, come up here.

Herb obeys, walking up next to Ulrich.

Moriarty: Okay, before we start, there shall be a few rules. No punching, kicking, biting, or anything dirty. That being said, Herb, I want you to push Ulrich to the ground.

Herb suddenly becomes worried.

Herb: Commandant?

Moriarty: Just do it.

Herb reluctantly approaches Ulrich, who has a vibrant smirk on his face. Herb tries to push Ulrich to the ground by pressing against his shoulders. Ulrich barely has to push back. Herb gives a pathetic struggle and falls to the ground himself. Laughter ensues.

Moriarty: As you can see, Herb is no match for Ulrich. But let's change it up a little. Nicholas, join Herb. Try to push Ulrich down together.

The two begin to shove Ulrich. This time Ulrich has to dig his heels in. He strains against their force. But even with their combined effort, Ulrich manages to remove them. Both fall to the ground. Ulrich pants. Moriarty smiles.

Moriarty: Impressive Ulrich. But let's take this a step further. He looks at the class. Lucas and Paul, get up here.

The stuttering Belgian student and his bored companion approach Ulrich and stand by Herb and Nicholas. Ulrich immediately starts to look concerned. Jeremie is starting to see Moriarty's point. He frowns, unable to help his friend.

Moriarty: Now all of you, push Ulrich to the ground.

The four pounce on Ulrich. This time Ulrich quickly falls. He hits the ground with a thud. The class applauds the performance. Moriarty haughtily looks over the prostrate Ulrich.

Moriarty: Do you see my point? Individually these four didn't stand a chance against Ulrich. But with discipline and community, they found the strength to bring the strongest among us down. Do you see what discipline and community can do? With those things in place, strength has no-

He suddenly winces. He holds his stomach and places his other hand on the table. He groans in pain. Herb stands up.

Herb: Commandant, are you ok?

Moriarty: I'm fine. Everyone go back to your seats. They obey. Ulrich seems a bit shaken, but he is otherwise fine. He gives Moriarty hateful looks out of the corner of his eye. Jeremie watches Moriarty with interest. Moriarty seems to be still in pain, but he gains control of it. You see my point. As members of The Order, you have to work together. Talk to each other. Break out of your little cliques and become one. He looks up. Emily, have you ever thought about talking to Nicholas? Have you ever talked?

Emily looks at Nicholas awkwardly, not sure how to answer.

Emily: Well aside from him asking me about an exciting evening in the-

Moriarty: Why don't you actually engage with each other? Get out of your comfort zones. Everyone of you should be friends. He winces again. His eyes grow cold. And anyone in this class who doesn't do that should be regarded with suspicion. Deliberate disunity is subversive.

He walks to the chalkboard and writes COMMUNITY.

Moriarty: That's your word of the day. The Order needs community. This school needs community. Embrace it. I want you to greet each other whenever you see each other. And to identify yourself as part of the community, you need a salute. And here it is:

Moriarty stands up straight. He crosses his arms over his chest, making his arms resemble crossed swords. He grimaces again.

Moriarty: …Now you do it.

The class salutes him. It is one fluid motion.

Moriarty: Again.

They salute again. It is even more in sync than before.

Moriarty: Good. I can see you are getting the point. The Order is doing you good. You are committed. But to show you are committed, I am going to give you a patch to display your allegiance to the Order. He pauses, watching as most of the class becomes eager. Not right now though. I am not going to force anyone to wear the patch. If I give them out now, peer pressure may emerge and create false members. I don't want that. If you truly are committed, come to my dorm later this afternoon. I will give you a patch.

Moriarty doubles over in pain. This time he cannot hide it. Students begin to mutter among themselves. Moriarty forces himself to rise. He takes a deep breath.

Moriarty: Class….dismissed…

An hour later, Emmanuel Maillard and Mathias Burel walk under the portico to the classroom building. They both have the purple sword and fleur-de-lis patch on their shirts. Mathias examines it.

Mathias: Pretty cool huh?

Emmanuel: Yeah.

Mathias: Love the design. It makes an old French symbol pretty edgy. He touches the patch. We're for real now.

Emmanuel remains cold and brooding.

Emmanuel: Yes. Yes we are.

Mathias: Hey, I wonder if having this patch will become a babe magnet. Wouldn't that be awesome?

Emmanuel scoffs at him.

Emmanuel: Don't be stupid. The Order is not just to get girls. This is serious. A student walks by with the patch. She salutes Emmanuel. Emmanuel salutes back. This isn't a game.

Mathias scratches his head.

Mathias: Is that girl even in our class?

Emmanuel: No, but who says she can't join?

Mathias: I thought it was just a class experiment. I mean-Mathias stops when he hears a scuffle up ahead. Hey look!

Theo and Romain are roughing up Herb near the outside of the gym. No one is around to stop them. Herb falls to the ground.

Theo: Honestly Herb, when are you going to learn?

Romain: If you had just kept your mouth shut about us cheating on Renard's homework, you wouldn't be in this mess.

Herb glares at them, his eyes full of hate.

Herb: You'd better stop if you know what's good for you. I'm not just a nerd anymore.

Theo puts a foot on his back.

Theo: You think just because you have a patch on your shirt you're no longer weak?

Mathias and Emmanuel watch from the distance. Mathias chuckles.

Mathias: Looks like Pinchon is getting it good this time, huh Emmanuel?

Emmanuel isn't laughing. He is staring at the scene in outrage.

Emmanuel: Did you not hear that? Herb has a patch.

Mathias: Yeah, so?

Emmanuel: So he's a member of the Order! He's a part of us.

Mathias: I still don't follow….

Emmanuel: Were you not listening to Renard?! We have to stand with each other! He's in our community. And he's being attacked!

Romain: How's that Order crap working out for you Pinchon?

Mathias quickly becomes angry.

Mathias: Hey, he just insulted The Order!

Emmanuel tightens his fist.

Emmanuel: Let's waste these 9th graders.

The two lunge at Theo and Romain without warning. A punch from Emmanuel nails Theo in the gut. Romain tries to fight back, but Mathias gives him a mean right hook to the face. Theo gets up and tries to fight again, but Emmanuel pins him against the wall of the shed. Romain gets up and runs away. Emmanuel looks Theo in the eye.

Emmanuel: Thought you could beat up Herb, did you?

Theo glares back at him with hate and defiance.

Theo: What's it to you? None of your business.

Emmanuel: He's an Order member. It is my business!

Theo: You Order pricks get on my nerves. You think you're so special. Who died and made you king of this school?

Emmanuel: No one. He punches Theo in the stomach again. But an attack against one of us is an attack against all. He drops Theo to the ground. And don't you ever forget that.

Theo takes off in humiliation. Mathias helps Herb up. He gives him his glasses back.

Mathias: You okay man?

Herb: Yeah, I guess so. Thanks a lot.

Emmanuel: No problem. Let us know if those punks decide to mess with you again.

Herb stands up, arching his back to recover from the blows.

Herb: I really appreciate that. It's nice to know that I have friends to watch my back.

Mathias: Hey, those guys had it coming.

Herb: But….what if they attack and you guys aren't around?

Emmanuel: I'll teach you a few moves to help you out. Make them think twice before doing it again.

Herb looks at Emmanuel with profound gratitude.

Herb: You'd….do that for me?

Emmanuel: Anything for a fellow Order member.

He crosses his arms in front of Herb. Herb does the same. At the same time, Azra Urgup walks by. She holds her books close to her. She catches Emmanuel's attention. He scowls.

Emmanuel: Hey Azra, where's your patch?

She looks behind her shoulder nervously.

Azra: I…uh…don't have one.

Emmanuel: What's the matter? Haven't had time to visit Renard?

Azra: No I just….I'm….I'm not wearing one.

Emmanuel: Aren't you in his ninth grade class?

Azra: Yes but-

Emmanuel: So why aren't you wearing one?

Azra halts and turns to Emmanuel with exasperation.

Azra: I….I don't want one! The Order creeps me out!

Emmanuel lowers his eyebrows.

Emmanuel: You think you're better than us?

Azra: No! I just don't like it. Stop bugging me!

Emmanuel: If I were you, I would change my opinion, and soon.

Azra gazes at Emmanuel with fear. She backs up.

Azra: J-just leave me alone.

She runs off.

Mathias: Wasn't that a little harsh?

Emmanuel: In my mind, refusing to wear the patch is the same as beating someone up with the patch. Either way, you show the school that you're against The Order.

A little farther off, Johnny and Hiroki approach the vending machines. They are lost in a rather intellectual conversation.

Johnny: Don't you think Megaman could defeat Twin Shadow from 'Rise of Darkness II'?

Hiroki: No way. Twin Shadow would tear him to pieces.

Johnny: But Megaman's a good fighter!

Hiroki: Yes, but Twin Shadow could easily deceive him and strike him when he let his guard down.

Johnny: Megaman never leaves his guard down!

Hiroki: Whatever…

Hiroki reaches for a coin. As he is about to put it in the slot, he is blocked by a bigger kid. He immediately reacts in anger.

Hiroki: Hey! We were here first.

The kid turns to them with a slightly amused look on his face.

Xavier: Congratulations, but I don't care.

Johnny: You can't just push us around like that!

Xavier: I just did.

He puts his coin in.

Hiroki: Unbelievable! You think you can take advantage of us just because we're younger than you?!

Xavier: Run along little seventh graders. Wouldn't want anyone here to get hurt.

Paul: Well, that makes one of us…

Xavier is suddenly shoved against the vending machines by the bigger figure of Paul Gaillard. His face is intense and vindictive. Xavier looks at his attacker with fear and surprise.

Paul: It's not nice to bully fellow students.

Xavier: W-why do you care?

Paul reveals his purple patch. His look intensifies.

Paul: Because I'm in The Order. And we don't appreciate things like that.

Paul turns to Hiroki and Johnny.

Paul: You can get your drinks now.

Xavier: Hey, my money is already in there!

Paul: Exactly. Paying for them is the least you could do for being such a jerk.

Hiroki and Johnny look at each other, hesitating to act for a moment. But eventually they obey and get free drinks. Paul drops Xavier.

Paul: Get lost.

Xavier quickly obeys. Hiroki turns to Paul with sincere gratitude.

Hiroki: Thanks. No one's ever stood up for us like that.

Paul gives a curt smile.

Paul: Well that's about to change very quickly. Don't you worry about that. And you're welcome.

Johnny: You said something about The Order. Isn't that Dr. Renard's project thing?

Paul: It is. But it's more than just a project. It's a…..Paul snaps his fingers, trying to think of the words…an instrument of change.

Johnny: That sounds so cool! Dr. Renard has actually made this school fun!

Paul: You can say that again. He turns away. I gotta go. See you around.

Hiroki: Wait! Paul stops. Hiroki twists his fingers together. Is it….is it possible for younger kids to join The Order as well?

Paul: Dr. Renard told us we could start initiating any student ourselves if we deemed them worthy. So yes you could.

Hiroki becomes wrapped up in excitement.

Hiroki: Really?! SWEET! What do we have to do?

Paul: Come to a few meetings. If Renard and the rest of us believe you're cool, we'll let you in. We have one tonight after dinner in the auditorium. See you then.

Paul walks off. Hiroki rubs his hands together in anticipation. Johnny scratches his head, thinking this over.

Hiroki: This is fantastic! We could be in a secret society just like in 'Ninja Apocalypse III'!

Johnny: Now that I think about it, didn't you say your sister hated The Order?

Hiroki: I did.

Johnny: Then why would you want to join?

Hiroki gives him a mischievous smile.

Hiroki: Because if my sister hates it, then it must be super cool.

In Jeremie's dorm room, the two braniacs are hard at work. Jeremie works from his desk with Aelita at his side. Jeremie seems to be working on a program that is near completion.

Jeremie: Just a few more finishing touches and…He hits the keys. The computer begins loading. A green plus sign appears. Success!

Aelita: The return to the past program is fixed?

Jeremie: I've repaired the circuit boards and debugged the program. Now we just need to see how long it will take the program to repair itself. It should be popping up on the computer now.

Jeremie closes his eyes and leans back in his chair. Aelita leans forward to look at the computer.

Aelita: Uh….Jeremie?

Jeremie: Yes?

Aelita: This might be an error, but the estimated time of self-repair is...She pauses….two and a half months.

Jeremie opens his eyes. To his horror, he finds it to be true. His head immediately hits the desk.

Jeremie: Two….and a half months! Seriously?!

Aelita: Well it is a program to turn back time. Not exactly as easy as downloading a song.

Jeremie hangs his head.

Jeremie: You're right. I guess we'll just have to wait…..again. But if things keep progressing as they are, two and a half months may be too long. The return to the past maybe useless to us.

Aelita: I'm sorry Jeremie. There's nothing we can do. Besides, it's not all bad news. Do you remember how Moriarty seemed to be in pain in class today?

Jeremie opens his eyes.

Jeremie: You're right. I can't believe I almost forgot!

He types on the computer again. An image of Moriarty's core in the Network appears. He points to it.

Jeremie: Do you see those strange wavelengths coming from the core? And do you notice how the pyramid structures are pulsating with more energy than usual?

Aelita: Yes. What does it mean?

Jeremie: It means Moriarty has bitten off more than he can chew. Moriarty draws power from corrupted databases. It serves to generate the power that maintains his human form, in addition to giving him information. The screen zooms in on the core. Only problem is, he's having an energy shortage. The complexities of his human form combined with his recent attacks on Earth are too much for him. The databases can't keep up. He can't spread fast enough to support his pseudo-organic structure. In essence, if he isn't careful, he could fall apart.

Aelita: Hmmn….is that why he attacked us with the cake last time instead of launching a more traditional attack?

Jeremie: Probably so. He knew that he was in trouble so he did something easy to conserve his energy. But the damage was already done by that time. The parasitic core will eventually be unable to support itself. If things continue to progress this way, Moriarty will have no choice but to abandon his mortal form or risk total structural implosion.

The room is suddenly quiet. Aelita stands there with a wild hope rising in her. She bites her lip. Parts of her resist this onrush of positive feelings for fear of being disappointed, but the tidal wave wins the day. She hugs Jeremie tightly.

Aelita: Free of him…..WE'LL BE FREE OF HIM!

Jeremie: Aelita…He coughs…my neck. She releases. Jeremie takes a moment to breath. While this certainly looks good for us, we can't be sure that Moriarty won't find a way to save himself. We'll have to wait and see.

Aelita: Forget waiting. She balls her fists and suddenly becomes lively and aggressive. Let's take advantage of this by going down into the Network and finishing the job!

Jeremie: No can do….Jeremie shows her another part of the Network. The infected databases appear to be swollen. Power surges created by Moriarty's desperate growth have caused the infected databases to be-She sees several of them blow up- explosive. We would never get past them.

Aelita sighs with disappointment.

Aelita: So what can we do?

Jeremie: There's nothing for us to do at all. We can't destroy Moriarty ourselves right now. The return to the past program will be offline for a long time and we can't change that. Moriarty's control of the school is complicated by his pain and the César's arrival. And to top it all off, Odd has started his recovery program again. Jeremie sits in his chair comfortably. To put it blunty, there is nothing more we can do.

Aelita: So-She pauses-there's nothing more we can do for the mission? She looks around the room. Well, now what do we do?

Jeremie gets a sly look on his face. He gets out of his chair and wraps his arms around Aelita's waist. She immediately blushes in surprise.

Aelita: …How did I not see that coming?

Jeremie: Because I'm very sneaky…

He kisses her cheek. She turns around to face him. They share a deep embrace.

Jeremie: Let's forget about the mission for now.

Aelita: I agree. She taps her index finger on his lip. We've earned a little break.

The two sit down on the bed. They share a passionate kiss. Jeremie pulls Aelita close to her.

Jeremie: Moriarty never gives us enough time to do this. Sometimes it can be really, REALLY annoying.

Aelita rests her head on his shoulder. After he kisses her again, some tears fall down her cheek. Jeremie notices. He backs away from her.

Jeremie: Aelita….what's wrong?

She sniffs and wipes her nose.

Aelita: Have you ever had to deal with the pressure of saving an entire city from dying from a plague? Knowing that it all depends on you and then…..failing? More tears fall from her eyes. Her voice is strained. The students' faces. Those terrible faces. They may all be better now but when they came after me-Her eyelids scrunch together-I couldn't take it. I couldn't take it! Her fingers latch on to Jeremie's shoulders tightly. I've been holding in all this terror from that plague….from everything. I don't have much more room to take any more. I won't be able to take much more! She hugs Jeremie tightly. Even if we do defeat Moriarty and save the world….I'm scared- no, terrified that there won't be anything left of ourselves to save. Even if we survive we'll become nothing but empty husks beaten beyond the point of endurance. Her face collapses in Jeremie's chest. I don't want that to happen! PLEASE NO!

Jeremie holds her, his face shaking. He slowly forces Aelita's face to look at his.

Jeremie: I know this is terrible. We have to endure things no one should have to endure. He smiles. But we don't have to endure it alone. Don't hold it all in. I made that mistake, and I will forever regret it.

Aelita wipes her tears.

Aelita: You're right. We have to press on.

Jeremie: Now is not the time to think about that. His face brushes up against her cheek. The situation becomes romantic again. I'm going to make you forget all about your stress…..just come a little closer….

As Aelita nears Jeremie for another kiss, the door is knocked down. Jeremie and Aelita nearly jump out of their skins in shock. The proud Prince César struts into the room.

César: Hello again roommate!

Jeremie groans.

Jeremie: Do you not know how to use a doorknob properly?

César: Of course I do. I just choose not to.

Jeremie: Of course. My mistake….

César turns his attention to Aelita. He smiles flirtatiously.

César: Well hello again Aelita, mi princesa rosada. (my pink princess) He takes her hand like a true royal figure. I did not realize you and Jeremie were on such friendly terms.

While César continues to give her attention, Jeremie raises an eyebrow.

Jeremie: Yes…..He coughs loudly. She's my girlfriend.

César nods understandingly.

César: Oh I knew it. A genius such as her would only settle for a fellow genius. Nothing better would do for such a beautiful intellectual.

Aelita sits there lost for words at that compliment.

Aelita: César…..I'm flattered.

César: Of course a woman such as you could shoot for someone of higher caliber.

Jeremie: Excuse me?!

César walks to the dresser.

César: Pero no me importa (But I don't care) I have Pencak Silat practice. I need to change.

He takes his shirt off. Jeremie begins to burn with shock and anger while Aelita turns a deep shade of red. Jeremie fumes.

Jeremie: What's the matter with you?! You can't change in front of my girlfriend!

A shirtless César with perfect abs and a lean tan body turns to face them. Aelita becomes redder. She looks away.

César: I don't hear her complaining.

Jeremie: César!

The prince holds his hands up in a gesture of peace. He gathers some clothes.

César: No te enojes (Don't be angry). I will leave. He opens the door and gives Aelita one last look./ Hasta luego princesa. (See you later princess)

As soon as he leaves, Jeremie scowls.

Jeremie: Unbelievable flirt!

Aelita: Jeremie….I'm sorry. I don't want you to get the wrong idea-

Jeremie sighs.

Jeremie: It's okay Aelita. He's a dashing prince and I'm a weak nerd. I can't blame you for looking in his direction. I'm not exactly good competition.

Aelita shakes her head.

Aelita: Oh come on, I would never leave you for someone with that large of an ego.

Jeremie: Well, it is enormous.

Aelita: There is one good thing though…

Jeremie turns around.

Jeremie: What's that?

Aelita points to the exquisite polo shirt discarded on the floor. She smiles.

Aelita: He wasn't wearing a patch.

Jeremie: No…He brightens up a little bit. No he wasn't. The two sit there in silence for a moment. Jeremie takes a look at the night sky. Suddenly a thought crosses his mind. Pencak Silat practice? You don't think…

In the dim light of the gymnasium, Ulrich and Yumi practice hard. Sweat falls down their brows. Ulrich is currently on the offensive. He breathes heavily.

Ulrich: I used to be able to fight a lot longer than this. He tries to sweep Yumi's feet, but she easily avoids it. But not anymore. I tire too easily. Yumi attacks. He puts up his hands to defend. I think the positive side effects of Jeremie's inhibitors have worn off.

Yumi backs up. An anxious frown is on her face. She avoids looking Ulrich in the eye.

Yumi: Ulrich….I need to tell you something.

Ulrich: But my reflexes are sharper.

Yumi: Ulrich, I-

Ulrich: I guess it did leave a lasting impression after all.

Yumi: I agree, but Ulrich-

Ulrich: I was hoping it would last though.

Yumi: Ulrich, we really need to take a break. I have to confess something.

Ulrich stops. He stands up straight.

Ulrich: What? What is it?

Yumi rubs the back of her neck sheepishly.

Yumi: Well, you see I might have made a slight change to our usual practice. The truth is-

Gym doors are busted open. A lean Spaniard in loose but expensive exercise attire emerges.

César: Sorry I'm late.

Ulrich takes one look at César. Then he mechanically turns his head toward Yumi.

Ulrich: 'Sorry I'm late'? Late for what?

Yumi shrugs.

Yumi: Practice?

A shadow of jealousy and annoyance crosses Ulrich's face. He taps his foot on the floor. Yumi groans.

Yumi: Okay, so he's joining us tonight. He mentioned he's a little behind on self-defense classes and I offered to help.

Ulrich grits his teeth.

Ulrich: Oh….how selfless of you.

Yumi: Don't patronize me. This is a friendly offer, nothing more.

César walks behind Yumi and places a hand on her shoulder. Yumi immediately cringes and blushes.

César: ¿Podemos empezar ahora, profesora? (Can we begin now teacher?) He gives her a strange look. You seem tense, are you okay?

Yumi smiles politely and backs away from César. She quickly assumes a mask of seriousness. She looks at the prince with respect and buries anything else.

Yumi: Of course. She bows to him. He gives her an obnoxious bow back. Let's begin.

Ulrich: Right. Ulrich walks in between them. He gets into a defensive stance. Your first lesson: Spar me.

Yumi quickly becomes concerned. She leans forward and whispers loudly into his ear.

Yumi: Ulrich, what are you doing?!

Ulrich gives her a condescending smirk.

Ulrich: What's the matter? You wanted to teach him self-defense. I'm just helping him out. He cracks his knuckles and exudes an evil grin. Oh I'll help him out alright.

Yumi: Please….She grimaces. Don't cause an international incident. Beating the Crown Prince to a pulp would not go over well.

César stands there impatiently.

César: Are we going to spar or not? Your little love chit-chat is getting old.

Ulrich lowers his eyebrows. He approaches the prince. The two face each other in the middle of the court, circling each other. Ulrich becomes smug with confidence. Upon seeing this reaction, César merely frowns.

Ulrich: Okay, let's see what you're made of.

César: If you insist amigo….

Ulrich goes on the attack while Yumi watches nervously on the sidelines. Ulrich starts out with some right hooks and punches. César surprisingly dodges them easily. Ulrich's eyes widen with surprise, but he quickly covers it up and goes in with more intensity than before. He gets in close, trying to look for an opportunity to attack César. But the prince waits patiently, not even attempting to go on the offense. Ulrich takes a swing towards the left side of César's face. The Spaniard sees it coming and blocks it out of the way, then jabs Ulrich in the chest. Ulrich winces and backs up with surprise. The pain is not very intense, but the shock of actually being countered by his supposedly weak opponent stings his pride. Ulrich starts moving lightly on his feet and moves toward him again. César appears indifferent.

Ulrich: You're pretty good for a beginner.

Ulrich manages to grab César's shoulders and tries to take him down. But César slips through his fingers with a clever escape maneuver. Ulrich seethes with frustration when he sees his opponent facing him again.

César: Who said I was a beginner?

Ulrich lunges at him. César successfully grabs his wrist and disarms his attack. Ulrich grimaces. César shakes his head sadly.

César: No paciencia (No patience). That's your problem. Overconfidence and anger. Also a problem.

Ulrich tries to take out his feet, but César moves to the side. He still hesitates to attack. He frowns, watching Ulrich's growing frustration with sadness.

César: Your strength isn't the problem. You are stronger than me. But I have an advantage that your strength cannot match.

Ulrich: Oh yeah?! What's that?!

César blocks several punches to the chest.

César: You wear yourself out too easily because you dislike me and you don't think. Una combinación muy peligrosa. (A very dangerous combination) Meanwhile I patiently wait for you to make mistakes and take advantage of your emotions.

Ulrich breathes heavily, trying to not let César's words affect him. But his comments dig into the aggressive side of his brain. He begins holding nothing back. César begins to look positively downcast. Ulrich's punch misses the prince's temples. César then strikes him in the side. Ulrich's drop in concentration from the pain allows César to kick him in the stomach. Ulrich is now in pain, but he presses on. César shakes his head as he continues to gracefully dodge his attacks. An open palm blocks another punch from Ulrich.

César: You are losing because your mind isn't clear. You're angry. César solemnly observes Ulrich's growing exasperation. You're angry because you feel jealous. You feel insecure because the Prince of Spain has befriended your girlfriend and you don't know how to deal with it. Moreover, you're angry because you realized the 'spoiled little prince' can actually fight and beat you.

Ulrich: Shut up and spar me!

César: Don't take it too personally. Most guys I meet end up despising me. And it's always because they're afraid I'll take their girls. Ulrich launches a roundhouse kick. César catches it and holds Ulrich helplessly at his mercy. They hate me because they know they can't compete with the 'Crown Prince'. No one can. That's why I never have guy friends for very long. Eventually they can't stand me. He takes Ulrich down and pins him. Ulrich struggles to get up. César turns to Yumi, who watches the scene in astonishment. César smiles at her, but it is a condescending smile. And you. You're different than many girls. You don't fawn over me. And you're beautiful. I can honestly say I'm jealous of this Ulrich fellow. He sighs. But I could tell very quickly that I had an effect on you. You just have the honor and dignity to hide it and even deny that it exists.

Yumi opens her mouth, trying to think of a way to answer him.

Yumi: César, you are really assuming a lot…

César: Don't take it too personally. Every girl I've met is affected by me in some way. César gets off of Ulrich. Ulrich gets up slowly. His pride is severely wounded. But tell me Yumi. What did you see when you first met me? Did you see a person? Or did you see a prince? He looks absentmindedly at the ceiling. Because all the girls I've met only see the latter. All the girls I could ever want, and not one of them knows me. So I just play the part, because that's what everyone expects. He turns his back on Yumi and Ulrich. Thank you for brushing me up on self-defense. It had been a while since I practiced.

He walks out the door, leaving Ulrich and Yumi speechless. The door shuts behind him. Yumi approaches Ulrich from behind. She holds her hands out in an apologetic manner.

Yumi: Ulrich, I didn't mean to-She rubs her forehead. I'm sorry. I was a real fool.

Ulrich looks behind his shoulder.

Ulrich: Apparently so was I.

The two silently part ways for the night. As darkness falls over the factory, Odd drifts into sleep. His dreams quickly become alive. Shining light pierces the air in a crisp mountain valley. Within that valley lies a quaint Swiss town. A fountain bubbles in the central plaza. Across the street, Odd sees a couple outside enjoying themselves at a café. Odd's spine immediately shakes at the sight. Moriarty is sitting at the table with Antea Hopper, laughing. And she is laughing too.

Antea: I can't believe you personally rearranged the schedule of a Soviet parade!

Moriarty smiles brightly with a high dose of arrogance.

Moriarty: What can I say? Gaspard said he wanted information on the new Soviet missiles. He didn't tell me how to do it.

Antea: If I didn't know any better, I would say you enjoy pranking our communist neighbors more than actually outsmarting them.

Moriarty: Oh the real culprit of that is Schaeffer. He can't help himself sometimes. Knowing how to dismantle an entire empire's communications gives one irresistible temptations.

Antea smiles and looks off to the side.

Antea: He's a bit of an odd duck, isn't he?

Moriarty: Oh he is, but once you get to know him, you realize he's even crazier.

Antea: Oh stop it. You're simply awful to him. He has a sweet side, you know.

Moriarty nods his head and rolls his shoulder, indicating that he is begrudgingly agreeing with her.

Moriarty: I don't know if I would use the word sweet, but you're right. He can be normal at times. He's a…Moriarty pauses, hesitating to give a compliment….he's a good friend.

Antea winks at him.

Antea: You're lucky to have such a friend.

Moriarty: Yes, but I'm even luckier to have you.

Antea blushes.

Antea: Oh André, you're too much.

Moriarty leans forward, full of romantic confidence.

Moriarty: I'm serious Antea. A woman like you is as rare as….Moriarty thinks for a moment. The music of the café and approaching night fills the void….well, as rare as your hair color!

Antea chuckles and twirls her beautiful hair with her index finger.

Antea: People always obsess over my hair. They've made remarks about it all the time, ever since I was little. She sighs and rests her chin on her hand. But that was honestly the sweetest comment regarding my hair that I've ever heard.

Moriarty: I wouldn't have it any other way. He raises his glass. Come on. A toast. To us.

Antea raises her glass as well.

Antea: And to Waldo Schaeffer.

Moriarty: Of course. Why not? If it wasn't for that idiot I wouldn't be here with you right now. To Schaeffer and us!

Moriarty and Antea's glasses tap together. The night goes on. The village becomes bright with lights. Music fills the air. Moriarty and Antea walk hand in hand towards the fountain. Antea flips a coin into the pool.

Antea: Come on, make a wish.

Moriarty laughs.

Moriarty: Antea dear, I am a scientist. Do you honestly expect me to participate in such a silly tradition?

Antea makes a puppy dog face.

Antea: Oh come on. Don't be so stodgy. She leans closer to him. Do it for me.

Moriarty sighs with defeat. He pulls a coin out of his coat.

Moriarty: Very well. I'll do it.

A coin falls into the pool. The clear light of the full moon allows them to see the coin fall all the way to the bottom. The water is clear. Moriarty holds Antea close.

Antea: What did you wish for?

Moriarty: If I tell you, it won't come true.

Antea rubs his blonde hair playfully.

Antea: That's for birthday wishes silly! What did you wish for?

Moriarty: Okay. His face becomes distant and romantic. I wished that I could dance with you right now.

Moriarty and Antea hear music from a beer garden nearby. Musicians work up a nice folk tone. People are dancing and singing. Lovers hold each other closely. Moriarty holds Antea's hand tightly.

Antea: You got your wish.

Moriarty: God is shining on us tonight. Come on!

They move into the beer garden and dance to their hearts' content. At first the music is wild and everyone dances as such. But eventually the music slows down and the lovers draw closer together. As slow dances begin to take hold of the beer garden, Moriarty raises Antea's chin close to his mouth. The two kiss. The scene shifts to Moriarty and Schaeffer at the Carthage facility. Schaeffer is hard at work on the computer while Moriarty fantasizes.

Moriarty: I'm telling you Schaeffer, she's the one for me!

Schaeffer's business expression does not change.

Schaeffer: That's great. Can you hand me the document for the X35 protocol?

Moriarty: I mean, she's everything I could ever want in a woman…

Schaeffer: Hmm….where did I put the Gulag files?

Moriarty: She's smart, funny, beautiful, and just remarkably lovely.

Schaeffer: Fantastic. He types on the computer. He laughs. Oh the Soviets have more holes in their security than our famous cheese!

Moriarty: I mean, how could I not fall for a girl like her?

Schaeffer: Now what could these codes mean? He hums with thought. After a few moments, he seems to register that Moriarty asked him a question. He raises his head. I'm sorry, did you say something?

Moriarty rolls his eyes.

Moriarty: I get the feeling you are completely uninterested in my romantic life.

Schaeffer: What?! That's nonsense! I am so happy for you and Maria.

Moriarty: Antea….

Schaeffer: Antea. Right. I knew that.

Moriarty: Schaeffer, the least you could do is pretend to be happy for me.

Schaeffer: I am happy for you! I've just been otherwise preoccupied. The communications war against the Soviets never sleeps.

Moriarty: You focus on work too much. Maybe you should get out. Who knows? You might find a girl for yourself.

Schaeffer scoffs at the idea.

Schaeffer: Please André, I am not the romantic type. I am not interested in romance. I am a man of science only. Everything else bores me. I don't need a woman to make me feel happy. I am perfectly content where I am.

Moriarty shrugs and shakes his head sadly at his friend.

Moriarty: Suit yourself. If you want to be alone, you want to be alone.

Schaeffer: Yes. He turns back to the computer. Now if you will excuse me, I am in the process of sending a Soviet division to the wrong location.

Moriarty: I'm sure they won't be happy about that.

Schaeffer: Nonsense. Their original orders were to go to Siberia. I'm sending them to the Caspian Sea. In a sense, I'm doing them a favor.

Moriarty: Maybe they should send you a thank you card.

Schaeffer: They really should.

The scene changes again. Antea stares out a window to look at the Swiss countryside. She is in pajamas. Moriarty approaches her from behind and hugs her. Antea smiles, but it fades.

Antea: So beautiful….

Moriarty: I know.

Antea: It's hard to believe that at any moment, all of that could be blown away. The human race….Her voice shakes and her eyes water…gone within an hour.

Moriarty holds her closer.

Moriarty: I won't let that happen.

Antea turns to Moriarty, her face full of concern. She pleads with her eyes.

Moriarty: André, promise me that you'll keep this world safe. ` `

Moriarty holds her shoulders. She looks up.

Moriarty: I promise you with every fiber of my being that I will protect this world. I'm not going to let this arms race tear our world to pieces.

Antea: You…..swear it?

Moriarty closes his eyes.

Moriarty: I swear it.

The dream shifts to the Carthage facility. Moriarty is hard at work on the computer. He mumbles some codes to himself. He hears a knock on his door. He doesn't look back.

Moriarty: Come in.

Antea opens the door. Moriarty turns around.

Moriarty: Ah, Antea. It's so nice to see you.

Antea: Just nice?

She kisses him on the cheek.

Moriarty: Of course not. There's nothing better than seeing the love of your life after being stuck in an office all day.

Antea playfully takes his hand.

Antea: Then why don't we leave a little early? We deserve a break. Let's go get dinner, get out of this place.

Moriarty frowns and looks back at his monitor.

Moriarty: Antea, I would love to, but I can't. I'm in charge of intercepting some high level communications from the Soviet Union right now. I can't leave.

Antea pouts.

Antea: Oh come on, can't you bend the rules?

Moriarty: No. If something were to happen while I was gone, Gaspard would have my head.

Antea: Has anything happened all day?

Moriarty pauses, looking at his monitor again. He rubs his chin.

Moriarty: Well no. Our rivals seem to be pretty silent right now.

Antea: And they're going to stay silent. Come on, what are the odds anything major will happen now?

Moriarty bites his lip.

Moriarty: Now that you mention it….

Antea grabs his hand again.

Antea: Nothing is going to happen. It's Christmas Eve for heaven's sake. They should be arrested for making you work at such a time.

Moriarty sits frozen at his chair, unsure what to do. He then turns to Antea. Her smile is warm and inviting. Moriarty begins to melt. He gets up.

Moriarty: You're right. Nothing will happen. Let's go have some fun.

They run out of the office together. Quickly afterwards, darkness overtakes the vision. A sense of gloom and punishment lingers in the air. Moriarty stands in a dimly lit room in front of Gaspard and two generals. They are glaring at him. Moriarty has his head down.

General 1: The Soviets have invaded Afghanistan. And we were left totally in the dark.

General 2: Intercepting Soviet communications was your job. You…..ABANDONED YOUR WORK! And now look at the consequences.

Gaspard folds his hands together. His expression is full of pity, but also deep anger and betrayal.

Gaspard: Do you have any idea what you have just done?

Moriarty does not reply.

Gaspard: Your little escapade with your girlfriend left us totally out of the loop! André, you have failed this project…..and your country.

The words dig into Moriarty like a knife. He can't raise his head. His body shakes.

Gaspard: Do you not realize that your actions have also put me in jeopardy? I brought you and Schaeffer here. You were supposed to be the best of the best. I put faith in you. And you let me down….Gaspard looks down at the floor and shakes his head. My superiors are demanding that you be removed immediately.

Moriarty suddenly looks up. His eyes are full of horror.

Moriarty: No please! I…He lowers his head again. It won't happen again…..It will never happen again. My work will always come first now. I….He closes his eyes. I won't let you down again. Just please, give me another chance.

Moriarty looks up. The generals and Gaspard are hesitant. After what seems like an eternity of silence, Gaspard speaks.

Gaspard: You are removed from the board and put on probation. We will be monitoring you closely. One more mistake, and I will personally remove you from this project.

Moriarty exits the room. His face is sullen and full of defeat. He walks down the hall. Antea approaches her.

Antea: How did it go?

Moriarty does not reply. He keeps walking.

Antea: André…

He keeps walking. Antea grabs his arm.

Antea: André, I'm sorry. I didn't mean to get you in trouble. I just wanted to spend time with you. If you I had known I would never…..Her voice trails off. Please forgive me…

Moriarty turns to her. A dark cloud of anger and pain radiates in her direction. She backs away from him. Her eyes swell up with tears.

Antea: André…please...

Moriarty's gaze remains unmoved. Tears fall down Antea's face. Moriarty watches without pity.

Antea: André, please say something!

Moriarty turns away. His back faces her. He starts to walk again.

Moriarty: I need to focus on work now Antea. I can't allow this to happen again.

Antea pauses for a moment. She wipes her eyes.

Antea: But we….are still….

Antea can't finish. Moriarty looks behind his shoulder and glances at her. He turns his head.

Moriarty: For the time being, I can't have any distractions.

He walks away. Antea slowly goes the opposite direction. She begins to weep bitterly. An hour later, she finds herself moping in the break room. She is completely alone. A few minutes later a rather spaced out Schaeffer enters the room. He totally does not notice her presence. He goes for the coffee, muttering to himself. As he pours out a cup, a large sob from her catches his attention. He sees the sad scene and pauses. His distraction causes him to pour coffee on his hand. He curses loudly. Antea lifts her head. Schaeffer rubs his palm in embarrassment.

Schaeffer: Sorry….He runs some cold water on his hand. He awkwardly avoids her gaze. While the water runs over his hand, he wonders what to do. His social limitations and preoccupation with work make him hesitant to comfort her. But as the crying continues, he finds that he cannot ignore it. He pours another cup of coffee. He turns around. Coffee?

Antea feebly looks up. She sees this scatterbrained but kind man of science offering her a cup. She sinks down again.

Antea: Sure.

He sets the cup down and sits down across from her.

Schaeffer: Okay, what did André do this time?

Antea looks away.

Antea: I'd prefer not to talk about it.

Schaeffer sits there for a moment, staring blankly at her. He then gets up.

Schaeffer: Okay….

Antea watches in amazement as he starts to leave.

Antea: You're going to leave, just like that?

Schaeffer: You said you didn't want to talk about it.

Antea's eyes widen.

Antea: Don't you understand that when a woman says that…she doesn't really mean it?

Schaeffer scratches his unshaven face.

Schaeffer: I guess not…..

Antea shakes her head.

Antea: I forgot that the greatest minds on Earth sometimes miss the simple things. She sighs. I do need someone to talk to Waldo.

Schaeffer: If it's relationship drama, I'm not sure I can help. I mean…He points to his odd and disheveled appeareance…..look at me.

Antea laughs despite her tears.

Antea: A true man of science. Completely indifferent to the little things of life. It's a wonder you remembered to put clothes on.

Schaeffer: I've had to be reminded a few times.

She laughs again. Her mood starts to improve.

Antea: You and André are so much alike. I can see how you two became good friends.

Schaeffer: Well, not totally alike. He folds his arms across his chest. I know I would never hurt the feelings of a beautiful woman.

Antea is instantly surprised by the remark. A little color comes to her cheeks.

Antea: Beautiful?

True to his man of science personality, Schaeffer is ignorant that his previous remark would usually cause embarrassment between both genders. He smiles proudly.

Schaeffer: Of course. So what did he do?

Before Antea can answer, Gaspard's voice comes over the intercom.

Gaspard: Dr. Schaeffer, report to my office immediately.

Schaeffer smacks his head in exasperation.

Schaeffer: Oh perfect timing. He looks apologetically at Antea. Sorry, may we continue this another time?

Antea nods.

Antea: Sure. How about over dinner….in town tonight? I need to get out of this place.

Schaeffer: Dinner….splendid! I will find my least ridiculous outfit and you may discuss your emotional crisis to your heart's content. He turns to leave and knocks his face into the wall. He stumbles back. I knew the door wasn't there.

She laughs again. Schaeffer leaves. Eventually Antea leaves too. Both are unaware that Moriarty has been listening from the back of the break room. He clutches his coffee cup in anger. The scene changes to three weeks later. Schaeffer and Antea walk towards the Carthage facility at night. Both seem in high spirits.

Antea: You forgot your wallet in your office again?

Schaeffer: What can I say? If it's not attached to my body there's no guarantee that it will go with me.

Antea: You're so innocently forgetful at times.

As they pass security, Antea wraps her arm around his. They walk together. But as they reach the office, they notice Moriarty standing in their way. The pair instantly stop. They can tell Moriarty is not happy. His hands are on his hips and his eyebrows are lowered, as if ready to attack.

Schaeffer: André, what are you doing?

Moriarty: What am I doing? He aims an index finger at him. A better question is what are you doing? With her?

A tense moment of silence follows. Antea scoots away from Schaeffer, trying to avoid any suspicion.

Schaeffer: André, I know what you're thinking. I know this looks questionable, but I assure you-

Moriarty: Assure me what? That you're not seeing my girlfriend behind my back?

Antea stands in front of Schaeffer

Antea: André, it's not like that. We are just friends, colleagues that like to enjoy each other's company.

Moriarty scoffs at the idea and scowls at her.

Moriarty: Colleagues and friends that have been seeing each other regularly for the past three weeks?

Schaeffer and Antea look at each other, not sure what to say.

Schaeffer: Antea and I have done nothing wrong. We were just enjoying each other's company. That is all. Right Antea?

Antea: Right. I would never do anything to harm you André, you know that.

Moriarty stands there quietly. At first, it appears that he might accept what they are saying. But eventually jealousy gets the best of him.

Moriarty: Do you think I'm an idiot?! Do you think I really don't know what's going on here?!

Ice sinks into Antea's chest at the accusation.

Antea: André, how could you?!

Moriarty: How could you run off with my best friend?! And speaking of which…He turns his ire toward Schaeffer what a wonderful best friend you turned out to be.

Schaeffer starts to become angry.

Schaeffer: We did nothing wrong! She was distraught after your confrontation with her. She needed someone to talk to, and I happened to be that person. I ended up liking her as a good friend. We like to be with each other and talk. Is that so wrong?

Moriarty seethes at his former friend.

Moriarty: I always knew you thought I was so much dumber than you. You are the one who keeps getting the attention around here. You are Carthage's crown gem while I am barely better than its trash. But to think you tried to convince me that you two are innocent friends…..He tightens his fist. It makes me sick.

Antea: André stop!

Moriarty: Shut up!

Schaeffer: Enough of this! I do think you're stupid, but it's not because I think I you're gullible. It's because you are a jealous idiot. A jealous idiot who is on a rampage of self-destruction. You and Antea had a great relationship, but you've singlehandedly torn it to pieces. You haven't forgiven her for an innocent mistake that cost you some prestige in the project, and look what it has done. If you had let it go and started to see her again, everything would have been fine. Instead you drove her away. What did you expect would happen? That she would wait until you had swallowed this blow to your pride? He glares at Moriarty. Maybe the problem isn't her. Maybe the problem is that you don't deserve her!

Moriarty stares at Schaeffer with a blank look. Something snaps in his mind, like a spark about to ignite a forest fire. The veins on his forehead and hands begin to pop out. He growls in anger. His face contorts with uncontrolled rage.

Moriarty: How….dare you. A fist is cocked. It plows into Schaeffer's stomach and knocks him against the wall. Antea screams. YOU SON OF A BITCH!

Schaeffer groans. Antea rushes to his side. The sight of her caring for him is too much for Moriarty. His anger evaporates. Tears form in his eyes.

Moriarty: Antea…..

Antea faces away from him.

Antea: Never…..speak to me again….

Moriarty feels his heart torn in eight different places. His breath is slowed by the shock of his loss. After a few moments of trying to recover himself, he vents at Schaeffer.

Moriarty: You….STOLE HER FROM ME!

Schaeffer gives him a spiteful look.

Schaeffer: You have done that yourself.

Upon hearing this, Moriarty mechanically walks away from the scene. He breaks off into a run. Meanwhile Antea gets closer to him. She puts her arms around his head and holds him. The dream finally disappears. Odd wakes up. Kiwi stares at his master inquisitively. Odd sinks back into the pillow.

Odd: No Kiwi, I am not telling Aelita what happened in that dream.

Early in the morning, William walks through the park near campus. He hopes to have some time to himself and unwind. Unfortunately Xana did not have the same plan.

William: For the last time, Xana, I said there is no deal.

Xana: Slave, your morality has exasperated me beyond the point of endurance. It is an offer you can't refuse.

William: Too bad. I'm refusing it. You'll just have to endure.

Xana: I wonder….will you continue to refuse, even if it means the freedom of the world itself?

William: Don't be so melodramatic.

Xana: Moriarty's disease is spreading quickly. Kill it here, or it will infect all of France. And eventually the planet.

William: We already stopped his plague.

Xana: I refer to a different disease. His Order. If it gets any stronger it will infect other schools, and then Moriarty's message will not be stopped. Kill the disease here before it does any more damage.

William stops.

William: Does that involve killing anyone who is involved with The Order?

Xana: Naturally…

William: Then shove your idea up your artificial ass. That's not happening.

A metallic laughter pierces his mind. William cringes.

Xana: Don't you see? They are your enemy now.

William: They're just brainwashed.

Xana: Say what you will. But there will come a time where you will beg me to let you kill them.

William keeps walking to avoid that thought. Suddenly he stops. He notices Natalya sitting under a tree, reading. She doesn't notice him.

William: I didn't know she would be up this early.

Xana: The Russian female. How revolting. I have to deal with your hormones again.

A tree branch above Natalya quakes suspiciously. It creaks and groans. It sways in the wind more than the others. William suddenly becomes concerned.

William: That branch seems really old and unstable. She shouldn't be sitting under there.

Natalya pays it no attention. Without warning, a gust of wind rips through the trees. William immediately looks up. The gust has pushed the branch beyond its point of endurance. It starts to fall right above Natalya. His brain switches to auto pilot. He sprints faster than humanly possible toward the tree. He pushes her out of the way. The branch falls on him, but shockingly the branch fazes through his body. After his gray body fluctuates for a moment, it stabilizes. He looks up to see Natalya staring at him in utter shock. She can barely speak. She points at him.

Natalya: Branch….you…..fast…..transparent…..what…what….not hurt….how….

William avoids her gaze. He prays with all his being that this is just a dream, but he knows that it is not. Xana speaks to him internally.

Xana: You're welcome.

William: We hadn't made the deal…you didn't have permission.

Xana: In that moment you were willing to do anything to save her. That was permission enough.

Natalya remains in shock. She doesn't take her eyes off William for a second. William cautiously tries to approach.

William: Natalya….

Natalya: WHO ARE YOU?!

William: Just calm down a second and….

Natalya: I DEMAND AN EXPLANATION!

William: Shh! He covers her mouth. The groundskeeper will hear you. Just stay calm.

Natalya: YOU JUST PASSED THROUGH A SOLID OBJECT LIKE A GHOST AND YOU WANT ME TO BE CALM?!

William: Shh! Just stop screaming and I will explain everything! He says those words before he fully understands what he is doing. The reality soon hits him. But it is too late. Natalya's eyes are locked on with curiosity. A revulsion to the lies he has given her quickly returns. He grimaces. I will…..explain everything.

The two become silent. Birds start to chirp. Natalya leans forward.

Natalya: Tell me the truth….please.

William: I will….but not here. I wouldn't even know what to start. He helps Natalya up. Let's meet at the front entrance tonight after dinner. We can go get an ice cream off campus. I will tell you everything.

Natalya: Finally….

William: But I must warn you once you know the truth, I can't guarantee your safety. It will be dangerous for you. Really dangerous. You can back out now and pretend like this never happened. It would be safer for you that way. Are you sure you want to know the truth?

Natalya touches his shoulders.

Natalya: More than anything.

William: Natalya, this is your last chance to walk away.

She looks him in the eye. Her expression is resolute.

Natalya: I've made up my mind.

Deep concern for her pummels William's mind. But he nods.

William: Okay, see you then.

They part ways. Xana quickly returns.

Xana: That went well. I wonder how you are going to explain that to your friends.

William: What they don't know won't hurt them.

Xana: My lips are sealed. But what if they find out? What will you do then?

William: They will have to get over it. I'm done lying.

The day passes on. Moriarty lies in his bed. He is weak and sickly. His breathing is heavy. The room occasionally spins around him. The door opens. He turns to see Jeremie looking over him. Immediately Moriarty growls with loathing. Jeremie watches over him with unrestrained glee. He presents a full tray of food to him. He puts it on the bed.

Jeremie: Dinner. Rosa sends you her deepest sympathies.

Moriarty regards his rival with disgust.

Moriarty: Jeremie…..did they make you do this?

Jeremie: No I volunteered.

Moriarty: How thoughtful. But I sense an ulterior motive.

Jeremie pours hot tea for Moriarty and 'accidentally' spills it onto his leg. Moriarty howls and curses him.

Jeremie: Now what would give you that idea?

Jeremie leaves Moriarty to his dinner and leans against the wall. Moriarty glowers at him.

Moriarty: This must be so amusing for you.

Jeremie: Considering I was in the same position not too long ago, a little bit.

Moriarty: Enjoy it while you can. This is just a minor setback. I still have this school under my finger.

Jeremie: Little good that does you if you have to abandon your human form.

Reckless confidence is evident in Moriarty's ashen face.

Moriarty: I will never do that.

Jeremie: Then you will die….

Moriarty laughs. He becomes a little hysterical.

Moriarty: So confident that I've met my end, are you?

Jeremie: The thought is getting more and more appealing.

Moriarty: Don't count me out just yet. I have unfinished business. I….cannot die.

Jeremie: Whatever.

He reaches for the door. Moriarty smiles and looks at the ceiling.

Moriarty: Have you told Aelita about her mother and me?

Jeremie's fingers grow cold as they grasp the doorknob.

Jeremie: No. It's best she doesn't know….if I can help it.

Moriarty shakes his head.

Moriarty: It's not good to hide things from your girlfriend. What else have you not told her?

Jeremie: Nothing. Everything we learn about you is shared among the group. No exceptions.

Moriarty: Then I suppose you all know about Schaeffer and I….our history.

Jeremie: A little….

Moriarty: And I guess you know about my far right past, my father, and my Afghanistan fiasco.

Jeremie opens the door.

Jeremie: Yeah, what's your point?

He turns to see a horribly evil smile on Moriarty's face. Jeremie pauses with alarm.

Moriarty: Interesting….I don't remember telling you that. How did you know all those things about me? Jeremie starts to sweat. He now sees how Moriarty has tricked him into revealing their secret link to his past. He curses his arrogance and foolishness. Come to think of it, I've been wondering how your friends were able to piece through my memories so well when they tortured me. As if they already knew…His grin becomes malicious. Oh well, time for Odd to die.

Jeremie fumes with outrage. He balls his fist.

Jeremie: You….bast-

An electric shock throws Jeremie against the wall. Moriarty withdraws into his sheets.

Moriarty: Don't waste your time with me. The clock is already ticking.

Back in Ulrich's dorm, a specter wraps around Odd's clone. The entity starts to shake. Ulrich is in his towel, perusing through the closet.

Ulrich: Hey clone, have you seen my gray shorts?

Odd's clone violently throws Ulrich against the wall and storms out. Shortly afterwards Yumi knocks on the door.

Yumi: Ulrich…

Ulrich turns crimson and tries to stop her.

Ulrich: Yumi don't-

Yumi opens the door to see a towel only partially covering Ulrich. She gasps and turns red.

Yumi: ULRICH WHAT THE HELL?!

Ulrich feebly raises his arm.

Ulrich: Okay, first of all, I apologize if you saw anything that crossed the boundary of our relationship. Second, Odd's clone is possessed by Moriarty. He struggles to his feet, making sure the towel is firmly on. We need to move quickly. He grimaces in pain. Yumi, can you hand me my pants?

The five run on the bridge toward the factory entrance. William's face is determined but full of regret.

William: Just so you know, Natalya is going to kill me for ditching her.

Electricity lights up the inside of the factory. Odd screams.

Odd: HELP!

Jeremie: If we don't do something, Odd is going to be the one killed.

They rush in to save him. They see Odd running away from a very aggressive clone. Lightning shoots out of his hands. Ulrich steps forward.

Ulrich: I'll handle him. Deactivate the tower.

Aelita: Got it.

Yumi: Good luck.

They swoop down and run to the elevator. Ulrich stays put and tackles the clone. Back on campus, Christophe enjoys a quiet evening with his IPod and his homework. He hums innocently without a care in the world. But that ends when Natalya bursts in the door. Christophe quickly sees that the Russian is seething with murderous anger. She slams her foot on the door.

Natalya: WHERE IS HE?!

Christophe: Um….hello?

Natalya: WHERE IS THAT JERK?!

Christophe: Please be more specific…..

Natalya: Don't play dumb with me. Where's William?

Christophe: How should I know? He's not my responsibility.

A bony index finger is pointed at him.

Natalya: You live next to him. You have to know. I know you know where he is!

Christophe rolls his eyes.

Christophe: You've lost it. I have no idea where he is. Stop bothering me about it. You're so angry you're starting to sound crazy.

Natalya: Liar!

Christophe: I'm not lying. I honestly don't know where he is.

He looks back at his book, expecting her to go away. But she doesn't.

Natalya: No. You really are lying. I know it. Your eyes avoided mine for a split second. You moved uncomfortably. You lied. I know you know where he is.

Christophe: You're nuts.

Natalya: I'm not moving from this spot until you tell me!

Christophe looks up. Natalya is shaking with anger. He can tell that she has her heart set on ripping William apart. For the time being though, that rage is focused on Christophe. Her killer eyes make him feel uneasy. He gives in and holds up his hands.

Christophe: Okay okay. He's probably with his friends at their usual hangout.

Natalya: Show me.

Christophe: What?

Natalya: Show me….NOW.

Ten minutes later, Christophe and Natalya are standing on the bridge to the factory. Natalya is suddenly hesitant.

Natalya: An abandoned factory? This is where they hang out?

Christophe: Yeah. One night I came out of a CD store around this place and saw them cross the bridge.

Natalya: And you never asked them about it?

Christophe: Wasn't my business. Besides…His face becomes red. I don't think I want to know what a bunch of teenagers do in an abandoned factory.

The thought makes Natalya turn red. Embarrassment transfers to rage. If smoke could come out of her ears, it would be happening right now.

Natalya: THAT JERK!

She runs into the factory.

Christophe: Wait!

A minute later, the two push the button for the elevator.

Christophe: This place gives me the creeps.

Natalya: I bet he's down there. I'm going to tear his head off.

Christophe: Can't we just leave?

Natalya: You can leave if you want. Of course. She stares at Christophe playfully. A big strong man like you wouldn't abandon a girl in a dark scary factory would you?

Christophe groans.

Christophe: You're awful.

The elevator takes them down to the scanner room. They walk in and are instantly blown away. None of them are able to move for a second. Eventually Christophe moves forward.

Christophe: What is this place?

Natalya follows.

Natalya: Looks really high-tech. What is this doing under a crappy factory?

Christophe looks at the scanners with great interest. Natalya seems to be awestruck by the room itself. None of them bother to think about the strange noises coming from upstairs. Christophe walks into the scanner.

Natalya: Hey, that may not be safe!

Christophe: Oh chill out! Look! He folds his arms across his chest in a frozen pose. It's like one of those freeze capsules that preserve you until you wake up five hundred years into the future!

Natalya: You boys and your science-fiction.

Christophe feels the walls of the scanner.

Christophe: Hey, get into one of these. It's so cool!

Natalya: Pass.

Christophe: Oh… is the little girl afraid to get in the pod? I thought you weren't scared of this factory.

Natalya grunts at him and quickly walks into a scanner. She looks at Christophe triumphantly.

Natalya: There. Happy now?

The scanner doors close. Natalya and Christophe freak out.

Christophe: What the?!

Natalya: Hey, I can't get out! Help!

Transfer…Scanner….Virtualization

Yay Cliffhanger! What will happen next? Note: Franco was the Dictator of Spain from 1939-1975. Just thought I'd let you know, that's who César was talking about.