Chapter Twelve: Liberating Veld.
They reached it, crossed No Man's Land, reached the outskirts of Veld before Diana and Tom spilt from the group. The tall building ahead were filled with men, who fired down at the group. Diana took the one on the left, while Tom went right. With the shield over him, Tom bounced off the far building to boost himself and break through the glass window. Shards hit the floor and Tom landed on the hard wood floor, peering up to get a good look at his surroundings. All around him wore men in uniforms, wearing gas masks and holding gun in their hands.
With a smirk, Tom flew forward and swept his sword to throw the gun aside, allowing him to hit the man with his shield. The blow caused the guy to stumbled, and coliid into the others, knocking them down like bowling pins. Kicking a chair into the guy to his right, threw his shield to ping off the man to the left, catching it and going to the next room. Thunderous shots rang out and Tom held up his shield, moving in and twisting to push all three barrels away. Someone from behind wacked Tom on the back of the head, causing him to stumbled forward to the floor. When the man went to shoot, he found the metal was bent from the blow, leaving the weapon useless. Holding himself up, Tom spun his legs out, sweeping the man's legs out from under him. In a cartwheel, Tom grabbed the second guy, who waved his arms around frantically, the others shooting to try and hit Tom, only to hit the guy. Gazing at each other, Tom jumped from the body and threw his fits into them, cause all three to break through a large glass window. Tom landed on the roof, seeing the two men roll off either side of him. Down below, he saw Steve and the gang making their way through the town.
Jerry jumped when a body came crashing down in front of them, looking up to see Diana. There was another crash, and Tom Appeared, waving and running along the roof. Chief passed a hand grenade to Steve, who threw it at the Germans, the blast killing the men and allowing them to move on. Jerry ran up the leg of a soldier, who jumped and tried to brush Jerry off, Steve coming in to fight the guy. Delivering a deadly strike, Steve fought another, Jerry trying to keep from being stepped on. Chief leaped out, and threw another bomb that stuck to the side of a build, Jerry plugging his ears as it explored. They were closer to the center of the town, closer to hopefully victory.
Tom was high on his adrenaline rush, entering the main square, seeing Diana handle herself. She wasn't alone, for Steve appeared, and the pair worked together, Diana whipping her lasso, while Steve shot at them. Seeing Diana take on a tank, Tom saw other Germans appear to face the invaders. Tom faced a set of men, unleashing his flexible skills to avoid getting shot, moving closer to take them down. With the metal boxing gloves, he broke the guy's leg with a single his, kicking him aside, and leaped onto the second man's chest to throw him to the earth. There was s hot and Tom saw one of the civilians drop to the ground, dead by a shot from above.
Everyone had to take shelter, Tom seeing Jerry run between the fee of several, Tome running to reach him. He leaped through the air and skidded on the earth, ending up behind a water fountain. Jerry looked up at Tom, who used his shield to protect them. "Tom, you're okay?"
"You honestly thought I wouldn't be?"
"Keep down, it's a sniper." Jerry saw Charlie, Sameer, and Chief taking shelter along a wall, Charlie struggled to take the shot. When it was clear, Charlie was unable to, Jerry knew they needed a new plan, one to take out the guy who hide above in the bell tower. "Our gooses are cooked if we don't take that sniper out."
Tom saw Steve, having an idea, gesturing to the man. Steve gave a nod, understanding and calling to the others. "Sameer, Chief, follow me!" Steve stayed low and yelled out to Tom. "Tom, give us some cover!"
With a nod Tom, did a cartwheel, making the sniper fire at him. Tom with the gun hot on his tail, dove, and took up his shied, ducking down to protect himself. With the fire focused on Tom, Steve, Sameer, and Chief ran out to the large metal piece, picking it up. "All right, guys we're going to put this on out backs, and when I say go, lift hard." Her looked at Diana. "Diana, shield!" Diana protected herself and headed for the men. "Go!" She got into position and they picked up the piece, lifting it for all they were worth. Diana use it to push off and flew though the air, heading right for the tower. With her sword held high, Tom smiled and nudged Jerry, who only held in breath.
Wham!
The church's top crumbled, and toppled over, causing in a cloud of dust to rise from the destroyed tower. The brick clattered and the three men threw the metal plate away, looking to see if Diana was okay. Out of hiding, came the villagers, chatting about what had happened. Steve dropped to his knees while Chief, and Sameer stood side by side. As minutes passed, Tom was curious if Diana was all right. When he saw her stand from the rubble, relief washed over him. "Yes, she did it!" He was so happy he picked Jerry up and kissed him, setting him back down. Wanting to congratulate her, he ran and scaled up the building.
"Tom, we did it!" Diana embraced Tom and looked down at the people, who cheered and clapped. The clouds of dust still hung in the air, but all Diana could do was smile to the villagers. "People of Veld, you are free from the Germans!" declared Diana in their language, making everyone cheer even louder.
Tom punched a fists through the air, glad they helped someone out. The people down below, cried, and hugged each other, happy beyond words. It was all he wanted, dreamed it could be. He was a hero, celebrated for his good acts and bravery. Then it hit him, what would they do once they won. A wave of sadness washed over Tom, for he was always a in the moment sort of guy, not thinking about what came after them being heroes. Then, he saw Jerry, who stood with Steve, both clapping for he and Diana. Then Tom felt something, a warmth, a sensation he was unfamiliar with.
"Come on, Tom, let's go down and join the others."
"Yeah, others."
Once they were on the ground, several men, and women shook their hand, grateful to their saviors. Jerry watched as gifts were given to the men in thanks, seeing children running about, and hugging them. Jerry saw the animals greeting Tom, thinking him for their suffering as well. Tom caught Jerry's gaze, and smiled, which in tune made the mouse joyful.
The villagers were so thankful, that a photographer asked to take their picture, wanting to preserve this historical moment. From left to right, was Sameer, Steve, Diana, Chief and Charlie. In front Tom stood, holding Jerry in his opened palm, beaming with joy. "Hold very very still, my friends. Please, it's so important," said the man, setting up his camera. The group smiled as the camera click, preserving the time, and place to stand still forever "Thank you so very much, it has been an honor for me to take your photograph." The man took the camera and went on his merry way, waving to the group.
That evening the town calibrated their freedom and the heroes who saved them. Food, music, the most joyful noise filled the night with life. Tom gestured to the locals to pay a very upbeat melody, wanting to express himself in the only other way he knew how. Jerry bobbed to the tune, the villagers were shocked when Tom started to sing.
Tom:
"In the shadows of the sea,
Where the days have disappeared,
Some might say it's sort of gritty,
Full of faces to be feared,
But there are wonders that are waiting,
Underneath the midnight sky,
We got the stars illuminating,
It's a place for you and I,
A little space for you and I,
At the top of the world tonight,
Where no one ever has to hide,
At the top of the world tonight,
We're sitting safe and starry-eyed,
Where there's treasure you can find,
In somethin' someone left behind,
At the top of the world tonight,
It can stay this way, at least until the morning light,
Through the dark there's someone singing,
Like an old familiar song,
Like you fell into a melody that's bringin' you right here,
Where you can belong,
And,
There are wonders that are waiting,
Underneath the midnight sky, and,
By the stars we're navigating,
To a place for you and I,
At the top of the world tonight,
Where no one ever has to hide,
At the top of the world tonight,
We're sitting safe and starry-eyed,
Where there's treasure you can find,
In somethin' someone left behind,
At the top of the world tonight,
It can stay this way, at least, until the morning light,
At the top of the word, the top of the world,
The top of the world tonight."
Tired and out of breath, Tome got down from the bar counter to join Jerry. softer music played loudly from the local pub as Charlie singing Loch Lomond. Sameer was handing out drinks, offering one to Chief, who took it with a nod of thanks. Tom and Jerry danced to the upbeat tune, trying to out do the other in an Irish jig that Charlie taught them, ending up falling off the table and to the floor. People were happy, and children ran around the street, having a good time. Diana and Steve danced, holding each other close.
Jerry nudged Tom. "Does it bother you, Diana dancing with Steve?"
"Nah, he seems nice enough. He has my approval."
"And me?"
"Undecided."
"Figures." Jerry sat and climbed the handle of a mug, taking a sip of beer.
Tom reached and lifted it to his muzzle, taking a big swig. When he got his fill, he burped. "So, when humans aren't fighting, what do they do?"
"Well, they go about their normal day." Jerry cleared his throat and looked up at Tom. "What will you and Diana do once the wars over? Go back to the island?"
"I'm not sure. Never really thought about." Tom's ears went flat, leaning against the step while his arms were out to either side. "We don't really fit in."
"If you're interested, you, and Diana could stay with Steve, and I. We could settle down, maybe buy a ranch, make a home together." Jerry signed, flushing a bit.
"By the gods, you mean live in sin?" Tom inquired.
"Yeah, just us live together. To be honest, life was bit dull till you showed up." Jerry admitted, flushing and looking away.
"Since I was a kitten, I dreamed of being among mankind. It's one thing to fantasies about, but it's an entirely different thing being out here for real. The island was beautiful and I miss it terribly. Yet, I'm finding out more about myself. I guess, it's because of you, if not for you dropping into my life, I'd still be on Themyscira, longing, wishing to be out there where the humans live." Tom set brushed Jerry's face with gratitude. "Thank you for giving me that."
Jerry was quiet, smiling before pulling at Tom's paw. "Wanna slow dance?"
"I-I don't know how." Tom replied.
"Neither do I."
Tom picked Jerry up and held him close, letting the soft tune guide him. Obviously Tom held Jerry in his paws, swaying from side to side, feeling a little foolish till he noticed how Jerry looked at him. Not with annoyance but with a smile, one that melted Tom's heart. Diana and Steve seemed to have their own special moment, Tom wondering if Diana was growing to care for Steve as more than a friend. There was no doubt they made a cute couple, Tom wondering about his own feelings toward Jerry. The mouse who he couldn't stand, yet couldn't imagine going on without him. Still, he and Diana had a job to do, they had to find and kill Ares.
Dancing to the slow melody, Tom was surprised when little white dots fell from the sky. "Zeus above, what the cuss is that!?" Tom rushed over to Diana, cowering under her cloak. Jerry laughed, finding the sight of Tom hiding hilarious.
Diana felt Tom huddle under her cloak and saw what had him so scared. "What is this?" White specks fall from the night sky. She glanced about, unaware of what the white dots were.
"It's snow." Steve looked up as snow flakes fell around them.
Diana blinked a few time and reached out, feeling the snow melt in her opened palm. "It is magic. Tom come out, it won't hurt you." Diana peered down to see Tom, holding the cloak over his head, only his face peered out.
"If you say so." A flake fell on his nose and melted, making him smile. He walked out and extended his arms, spinning a few times. "It's a gift from the Gods."
They stood their and watched the snow for a bit before heading off to bed. They walked down the hall and stopped at Diana's room. She opened the door, seeing the beautiful room, stepped in before turning. Steve came in to say good night, the pair gazing tenderly at each other. With a nod Steve went to leave, but Diana held his hand, keeping him in the room.
Tom with a raised brow, wondered what was happening. Suddenly, they kissed, making Jerry blush like a cherry. Tom did a double take, and with wide eye stared, seeing them embrace. Steve shut the door with a kick of his boot, leaving them alone in the hall. They stood for a moment before going to the room, as Steve was clearly going to stay the night with Diana.
"Guess they want to be lonely tonight." Jerry pulled at his collar, feeling embarrassed by the whole thing.
"Yeah, hope Diana doesn't hurt Steve too much." Tom nudged Jerry, laughing a little.
Jerry cringed, unable to believe what Tome suggested, knowing it was rude to speak of someone else's love life. "Must you ruin the moment." With a shake of his head Jerry walked in Steve's room, joined by the cat.
"Guess, we'll room in her." Tom shut the door and locked it before walking over to the bed. "Hope they aren't too noisy over there. Love making can get pretty loud form what I've read."
"You pervert, take your mind out of the gutter. Honestly, Tom, you should think before you speak." Jerry removed his pants and shirt, wearing only his boxers and tank top. folding up his clothes, he set them in a pile by the bed.
"Oh come on mouse, you know how strong Diana is. I'm worried for Steve's well being is all. I'm only saying what you're thinking." Sitting on a chair, Tom removed his leather belt, along with his knee protectors. He unstrapped his shoulder armor, placing them in a pile on the floor.
Climbing up the blanket, Jerry went to pull the covers back but stopped for a moment. He saw Tom remove his armor till he was wearing only his underwear, thinking Tom was rather handsome. "So, you ever been in love?"
"Well, most of the Amazon's are into girls and-come on, mouse, I'm a cat, they're all humans."
"I didn't know you were the only cat who could stand upright and sign."
Tom let out a sigh. "No, I've never loved anyone. You?"
"What is love anyway? A word? An attraction physical for someone? Perhaps a sensation to combat loneliness? I do wonder in this time of death, will I ever be fortunate to love, and be loved in return?" Jerry signed, sighing. "I'm not a normal mouse, I'm not normal in the way I should love another, either."
"Well, I like your abnormality, I like you, Jerry." Tom sat and moved closer to Jerry, hearing him sniff. "I love Diana, she's my sister, and my only family. Though when I'm around you, I don't feel like such a freak. I don't have to pretend to be human. I never knew I did that until I met you. You bring out both the best and worst of me."
Sitting side by side, Jerry moved closer to Tom. "I'd like to try something, if you okay with it. Mind leaning back."
"Sure." Jerry climbed up Tom's chest, standing close to his face. Little paws touched Tom's face, Jerry planting a small kiss to Tom's muzzle. Instead of pushing the mouse away, Tome found himself giving in, letting his paw go up to cub Jerry in in. Drawing back, Jerry was flushed before he signed. "Do you want to see where things can go?"
"Yeah, I'm up for that."
"Tom, are you sure. I mean, really, really sure?" Jerry asked, holding a worried expression.
"I've never been more sure in my life." Tom gently lapped Jerry's cheek, his fingers brushing Jerry's body.
The snow outside fell, and the once lit rooms blackened. The evening wore on, Tom laying while Jerry slept curled up on his chest, that rose, and fell steadily. For the first time, Tom wasn't concerned with the Great War, with Diana, or even with Ares. He'd never really thought about what he wanted, or desired, only ever going along with the flow. Yet as he held Jerry, Tom realized he wanted to remain with the mouse, wanted them to spend their life together. He'd never shared such an intimate, and passionate evening with someone, finding another, more powerful reason to carry on his, and Diana's mission to bring peace to the world.
