Renegades: A New Dawn

Chapter VIII: Enragement

Rio was lay in the hospital with Kelly by her side, when she suddenly sat up. 'Kelly' 'Yeah what is it?' 'I need some water. Any chance you could help me stand?' 'Sure.' Kelly then got her shoulder under Rio's arm, and helped her onto her feet. As Rio started walking with Kelly's help, Phil and Blair walked into the room.

As they did, Blair freaked out. 'What are you doing Rio! You're going to hurt yourself!' 'B, I… I'm fine. I have to get stronger.' Kelly then pacified the tension. 'She's got me keeping an eye on her.' 'Where's Jade anyway? I thought she was supposed to be looking after you.'

'Oh it's fine, when I got here about an hour ago I told her to go home and get some rest. It can't be comfortable sleeping here. Nice to see you back.' 'Yeah thanks. But you still shouldn't be pushing yourself so hard Rio.'

'I told you, I want to.' 'Why do you have to be so stubborn?' 'Why do you have to be so over-protective?' 'If you keep straining yourself constantly and putting so much pressure on your body, you won't get better.' 'Yeah? Well if I don't try, I'll never get better.' Phil then turned to leave, surprising Kelly. 'Er where are you going?' 'I'm going to get a coffee and let these two argue it out. Come with me if you like – it'll make everything better.' 'Ok, I'm up for that. See you later guys.'

In the coffee shop

'So why are we here?' 'Rio and Blair love each other to bits. But sometimes they need a good argument to clear the air.' 'I know Rio's a bit…' 'Combative?' 'Was gonna say moody, but combative works just as well. It's not weird to me at all – we all need an argument at times, just to get everything out of our systems.' 'Too right. I know I've had my fair share of arguments in the past.' 'Haven't we all?'

They then both laughed, as Kelly put her hand on Phil's. 'I'm glad you suggested this. Because I wanted to tell you how well you're doing with everything that happened to you.' 'I'm glad you think so.' 'Why, don't you?' 'Some days it's not so bad. But sometimes, I just wonder why I'm bothering. I just don't see how I'm going to live for 50+ years without her. Not even been 50 days and I'm struggling to cope.'

'I'm not going to pretend it's going to stop hurting. If it didn't hurt it wouldn't be natural. But one thing I can tell you from the short time I've known you is you have the biggest heart of any guy I have ever met. And that pain? You will learn to cope with it more. Because I get you.'

'Thanks. I don't know if I should stay here, or move away, fresh start, away from everything.' 'That's nothing to do with me. It's completely up to you. When's the funeral?' 'New Year's Eve. I know we should have had it by now, but the idea is that the new year is a new start for us all. Depending on how I'm coping, I'm hoping we can have a big statue of Hannah outside the base.'

'That sounds like it'd be beautiful.' 'Thanks. As I say, we'll see.' 'Honestly though, if there's anything I can help with, just say.' 'No thanks, the only thing that would help me you can't get.' 'I know. I just want you to know that everyone in the club wants to help.' 'I appreciate all the support, I really do. I'm just a complete mess.'

'Are you really surprised? After everything you've been through, it's a miracle you're still sane. Well, as sane as you can be, no offence.' 'None taken. Honestly, none taken. I've got a lot to think about though.' 'Well you've got all of us to talk to. Nobody thinks any less of you just because you're grieving.'

'I wanted to thank you as well.' 'Me? What did I do?' 'You and Jade have been looking after Rio while Blair was dealing with… her issues, and I was away duelling.' 'Honestly it's no fuss. She's an absolute sweetheart.'

'I know she can be a little abrupt at times.' 'Really? Never seen any of that from her. I'm so proud that she's trying to make herself better. It sounds stupid that I'm proud of her, but she's absolutely brilliant. She did mention one thing to me though yesterday.'

'I'm listening.' 'She was saying that she sometimes wonders if she can die.' 'I don't get it.' 'I didn't at first, but I think I know what she was getting at. Because when she was little, she was in a car accident, right?' 'Yeah, killed both her parents.' 'And then she got shot.' 'And survived.'

'Exactly. She seems to be wondering if she can die, because she should have died twice. Almost as if someone wants her to live.' 'It's a point. I suppose she's just super resilient.' 'I guess. Do you think that the argument will be done by now?' 'Should be, it's been about 20 minutes.'

As they got back to the hospital, Rio and Blair were sat together, both reading the same fashion magazine. 'Have you two stopped arguing yet?' 'Oh yeah, we stopped about 5 minutes ago. Where did you go?' 'We did say we were going for a coffee while you two were arguing.'

'Oh right. Well we're good now.' 'I'm glad to hear it.' Rio then got up again, with Kelly's help. As Blair went to say something, Phil just pointed at her, making her shut up. As Rio managed to get out of the room with help, Phil talked to her friend.

'You just need to chill out slightly.' 'Chill out? With all she's been through? I'm trying to stop Rio hurting herself.' 'Fair enough, probably wrong words used. What I mean is, Rio needs to find her limits. She won't get better if she can't push her limits. I know that when she's hurt it hurts you as well, but she needs to feel pain. It sounds stupid, I know, but she needs that pain to feel like she can get better, back to how it used to be. So please, just let her push her boundaries.'

'What if she really hurts herself though? What if she really hurts herself by pushing too hard and nobody's there?' 'That's why there's always someone here.' 'All the time while I was gone?' '24/7. Usually Jade or Kelly. All any of us want is for her to be out of this place and back where she belongs with people who care about her as soon as possible.'

In the base

Astrid was busy sketching a picture of the base when Maddy walked over to her. 'Hey.' 'Hi Maddy. Is there anything I can get for you?' 'Nah. Since I'm caught up on paperwork, and I've got no scheduled appointment until 2:30, I thought I could spare the time to have a quick catch-up with you. I mean, ever since you came here we've barely spoken man. Total bummer.'

The Norwegian then sat up. 'Guess we've just not had chance have we? You've been doing… you things, I've been doing… more me things.' 'So, how's settling in going?' 'Base is cool.' 'And England?' 'Bit gloomy at times. And I can't understand what most people say. I barely understand you at times.'

'Good to know.' 'I'm alright though. How is it having me here?' 'It just feels normal. It doesn't feel special, it feels logical, like it always was.' 'I don't understand you at all.' 'It feels like you were never not here, like you were always in the Renegades. Don't take this the wrong way, but doesn't feel like anything really changed.'

'Not a bad thing.' 'Getting on with everyone? Other than the obvious.' 'Yes, all cool.' 'Cool?' Astrid nodded. 'Not many speak to me much. Nobody really speaks at the moment.' 'I guess it's understandable. Only really speak to Kris.'

'I think he likes you.' 'I know. Almost cute. But I don't need anybody chasing after me. Oh, talk about chasing after me...' Kris then rocked up. 'Kris, how can I help you?' 'Astrid's best friend is in your office.' 'Because that sounded sarcastic, I'm guessing it's Claude.'

'10/10.' 'What's he want?' 'Dunno. He's demanding to talk to you, and he's refusing to go anywhere until he does.' 'Well he's not getting what he wants. Claude can book a meeting like everybody else.'

'Fine, but I get the feeling he ain't moving.' 'I have ways of making him.' 'Good luck.' Kris then left, before reversing. 'Hi Astrid, didn't mean to ignore you.' 'No problem.' As Kris left again and started talking to Jodi, Maddy punched Astrid in the arm. 'You punch like a girl.' 'That's why I spear idiots.'

'So, what did you want to say?' 'Kris really looked like he was chasing after you there.' 'I guess he's kind of cool. And it's only him I've had any conversations with.' Maddy then started singing. 'Astrid's in love, Astrid's in love.' 'Shut up! I just said he's kind of cool, that's all, he's cool, about 7/10.' 'Can tell you're in love, you're flustered. I'll see you later… girlfriend.'

As Maddy entered her office, Claude pointed at the clock. '40 minutes I've been here waiting for you.' 'Claude, I have an entire club to run. I'm not your mother, I'm not your babysitter, and I don't exist purely to run after you. I'll listen to you this time, but next time you HAVE to book with Jodi. There's a reason that the system exists, and it's to organise my time and allow me to give everyone the time they need. Now what did you want?'

'I want to go and see Rio in the hospital, but figured I should get your permission first.' Maddy shook her head. 'I'm sorry, but permission denied. I shouldn't have to be explaining this to you, but after your actions, Rio seeing you would turn the hospital into a war-zone.'

Claude slowly nodded. 'I understand, I probably should have thought of that. I have to atone for my actions.' He then produced an envelope. 'Hand this to Rio please if you could.' 'Certainly. Anything else?' 'No thanks, just that. Do you think people will actually forgive me?' 'Wounds heal eventually. Some will take longer than others though. But while I'm here, you'll be treated fairly. Keep your nose clean and the rest looks after itself.' 'Thanks Maddy.' 'Just doing my job.'

After Claude had cleared the vicinity of the office, Maddy gently opened the card. 'Let's see what you're hiding.' As she opened the card, she nodded her head. 'Nice try. There's only one place something like that belongs.' The interim president then put the card in a paper shredder.

Just as she'd done that, Kris walked in. 'Sit down. Right, what did you want to talk to me about?' 'Well something's come up since I booked, so first, I was walking backstage in DC when I overheard Akiza talking to someone.' 'So?' 'Something about the way she was talking seemed really shifty. Almost as if she's not completely in control if you know what I'm saying. I got a recording anyway.'

As Maddy listened, she seemed very intrigued. 'Was she on her own?' 'Yeah, on her phone, just stood there not even moving.' Thanks, I'll keep an eye on her.' 'Is that it?' 'Sorry Kris, I kinda don't know what you want me to do. I have no evidence to accuse Akiza of anything. Trust me, if she is plotting against me, that's treason and I'll take that very seriously. Now there was something else?' 'Huh? Oh yeah...'

Kris then took a deep breath. 'Why do I get the feeling you're not inviting me to a birthday party?' 'Listen, I was at the doctors last week, and long story short, I got a letter today.' 'Right?' With a pained look on his face, Kris continued. 'I've been diagnosed with something called Multiple Myeloma. I've got cancer Maddy, bone marrow cancer.'

Immediately, Maddy took her ponytail down and put her arm around Kris. 'Is it treatable or anything? Because there's enough money in the club's accounts to help' 'It's not just money. I need a bone marrow transplant but they haven't got any donors at the moment. If they can't find one, then… two years tops.'

Several minutes of silence then followed, before Maddy broke the silence. 'Would you like me to inform the other club members or do you want to do it in your own time?' 'I'd prefer you to do it, I don't think I can hold myself together. But do it before Blair gets back – she's got enough on her plate as is.' 'Whatever helps you Kris. I'll call a meeting immediately. I want to make one thing clear though: there will always be a place here for you. No matter what physical limitations your treatment has, we will find a role for you here.' 'Thank you Maddy. And just for the record, you're doing a great job as president.' 'Thanks, you're about the second person to say that to me.' 'I mean it. You're awesome.'

Meanwhile, Lydia and Freja were talking. 'No idea how you got a week off work. You're too quiet to even ask for a banana usually.' 'Thanks!' 'I mean it affectionately.' 'I know. I'm looking forward to getting to spend time with you.' 'Same. You do realise you can let your hair down now though? You're not in work anymore.'

'If I let my hair down, will you pay for coffee?' 'Coffee and biscuits.' 'Ok.' As Lydia let her hair down, an alarm went off in the base. 'Red alert? Something baaaaaaadddddddddddssssssss going on here.' 'Too right. Red alert's only for urgent announcements.'

As everyone stood to attention, Maddy came out with her hair down. 'I've got some bad news to share with you all. And I know what you're all thinking, Rio's fine – she's getting stronger by the day. Now you may have noticed that Kris hasn't been around the club as much recently. Now he's just informed me that he has been diagnosed with a form of cancer called Multiple Myeloma. He is seeking treatment, and he asked me to let you know. Any questions. Freja.'

'This cancer, it is curable, right?' 'It is curable. To find out how, you're better asking Sakura or Akiza. But Kris has informed me that it can be treated, he is currently seeking somewhere to treat him. Lydia.' 'How much does it cost?' 'I honestly don't have an answer, but I want the club to be able to pay for his treatment. As such I am going to arrange for the official opening of the new Renegades Arena to be a fundraiser for Kris' treatment. Astrid.'

'If there's going to be a fundraiser in the arena, I want to duel there.' 'We will in due course work on a card for the fundraiser. However that can't be done until they have finished all the building work there. No more questions? Ok, well I'd like to point out that Kris still has all his sense with him, so please don't talk to him like an invalid. Thanks for listening to me everyone.'

In the mortuary

Allyx, David, Brooks, and Martin were snooping around the mortuary, knowing what they were looking for. And soon David found it. 'Yo guys, Hannah's coffin.' As David stared at it, transfixed, Brooks slapped him in the face. 'Concentrate will ya? We need to get it to the boss.' As Brooks and Marshall lifted the coffin, it swung into a stack of steel poles, knocking them all down.

As they tried to hurry away, the elderly owner of the mortuary caught them. 'Where do you think you're going with that?' Martin then pulled out a gun. 'You guys go.' As the owner put his hands up, the two robbers escaped with their loot.

After they both made their escape, Martin looked over at a pair of keys in the distance. 'Allyx, get those keys, we're making our escape.' As the owner tried to stop her, Martin pointed the gun at his chest. 'One more move and I'll shoot you down so quickly you won't even get to name your next of kin amigo!' After Allyx grabbed the keys, Martin pulled the trigger, and shot the old man in the chest. 'I guess I was in a destructive mood after all.'

Martin then turned and ran off, with Allyx using the keys she had obtained to steal a hearse. The coffin was loaded into the vehicle with a loud thump, and after they slammed the boot, Martin took the wheel and sped off at top speed.

Back in the hospital

Blair was busy re-arranging Rio's blankets for her. 'Thanks B.' 'No need to thank me. I want to look after you. Hopefully we'll have you out of here in no time.' 'I wish. Knowing my luck I'll still be stuck in here by the world championships.' 'You need to focus on one thing at a time, alright?' 'Yes mother.'

Suddenly there was a thump behind Blair. 'Sorry, just knocked your water down. I'll mop it up.' 'It's the job of the cleaners that isn't it?' 'No no no, I can do it, I'm fine.' As Blair bent down to pick up the bottle, she saw something discarded underneath the bed. As she dragged it out, she was shocked – a piece of navy blue fabric, soaked with blood stains.

'Hey, I recognise this, this looks like Maddy's. But that old headband means the world to her, it's a memory of her first family holiday. But how's it got down there with blood on it? Rio, how's this got under your bed?' Rio shrugged her shoulders in response. 'Dunno.'

In the base, an hour later

Lydia was just passing by when she noticed Phil shouting down the phone. 'What do you mean you can't find it? It's a bloody gold coffin, how can you not find it? C,U,M,M,I,N,G,S. Yes with a G! Stolen? Who's stolen it? What – he's been shot? I'll bet I know the bastards that did this. Yes, well find it! What do you mean it's not your job? You're the police! It's your job! I've had enough of you telling me that my wife's murder is not your job!'

Phil then threw his phone across the base, shooting right across Lydia's face. 'What the hell?' 'Sorry, I didn't mean for it to hit you.' Lydia then touched his arm. 'What made you so angry?' 'It was from the mortuary. Apparently they've had a break-in – the owner's been shot and Hannah's body has magically gone missing.'

Lydia shook her head in disbelief. 'How the hell have they managed that?' 'I have no idea. There's also a set of keys and a hearse missing.' 'Getaway vehicle. You know where the mortuary is?' 'Of course.' 'Why don't we go and investigate then?' Phil nodded. 'I like the idea. But we can't tell anybody.' 'Other than Freja.' 'ANYBODY.' 'OTHER THAN FREJA. We can trust her to keep her mouth shut.'

'Are we talking about the same person?' 'Do you want my help? Besides, if you go on your own, I'm telling Fre anyway.' 'Fine, but underline that she has to keep her mouth shut.' 'Knowing Freja, she'll keep away from her.'

Lydia then hollered Freja over. 'Freja, there's been a break-in at the mortuary, Hannah's body and coffin are missing. We're going to investigate what's going on, we need you to make sure Maddy doesn't get a sniff of this.' The younger twin reached into her pocket, and pulled out a copy of Extreme Icaron's Force. 'Be careful out there sis. If you're not back in two hours I'm telling Maddy.' 'Thanks Fre. Love you.' They kissed each other on the cheek, and hugged, before Phil and Lydia left.

Birchall's hideout, near Gretna, Scotland

Birchall was practically salivating over having the coffin, as he gently stroked the gold-effect wood. 'My beautiful, my darling, the one I always desired. You never used to listen to me. You rejected me, and for what – second prize? Well you're not with that anymore. Now you're mine, and you can't reject. It would be better if I didn't have to shoot you down, but you shouldn't have gotten in the way. You're mine now though, that's all that matters.'

Martin meanwhile, was on the phone. 'Hello, I'd like to speak to a Doctor Mario DeBeers. Yes, a witch doctor type amigo. Witch doctor. Thanks. Mr. DeBeers. I have heard good things about your work. I am inquiring about raising from the dead. Yes, we have the body. Two weeks? Excellent. Thanks.'

He then turned to Birchall. 'Appointment in two weeks.' 'And he can raise her?' 'Sounds confident.' 'Good. Just think Hannah, in two weeks, you'll be back. The moment you're raised, I'll brainwash you, you'll never remember that stupid waste of flesh again. In fact, I might have you kill him just for the posterity.' Meanwhile, Allyx stood solemnly, before being sent away.

In the car

Nearly an hour after they set off, Lydia suddenly spotted something. 'Look – that's Allyx!' Phil then swung down a circular road. 'They aren't going to be stupid enough to have Allyx right outside their hideout are they?'

Lydia then came up with an idea. 'Phil, I've got a plan.' 'I'm open to anything.' She then whispered it down his ear, as he agreeingly nodded. 'One slight issue – can you drive?' 'Nope, never tried.' They then prepared their plan.

In the hospital

Blair was looking out of the window, watching the world pass by, when she was distracted by Kelly coming back in. 'Hey sweeties.' 'Thought you were getting some sleep.' 'Yeah, I couldn't really sleep. Ended up cleaning the kitchen instead.'

Rio then started complaining. 'I feel disgusting – not changed in days.' She then took her gown off, revealing some telling stitches across her stomach. 'Rio, where did you get those?' 'Err' 'What aren't you telling me?'

In Gretna

Less than 20 minutes after Phil and Lydia pulled over, Kieran passed in a plain black car. 'Hey Allyx.' 'Yes?' 'Just spoke to James, he wants to see you.' 'What for?' 'He didn't say, he just said that he wanted you to come over immediately and sent me to come and collect you. Sounded urgent. You know I don't question James, he pays way too good.'

Allyx then walked over to the car, hair in a plait, and stepped into the passenger's side. Once they were away from the vicinity in a lay-by, the doors were suddenly deadlocked. Kieran's body then started melting, before transforming into an atom-like state, and then back into Lydia.

'What are you?' 'I'm a Renegade. And I'm taking you with me. You've got answers and we want them. Phil' Phil then popped up from behind Allyx, injecting her in the back of the neck, knocking her out. 'Lydia, if we get pulled over, I've got a fake provisional license in the glovebox for you. You're a learner driver, and I'm monitoring you as a full license holder.'

'Thanks.' 'Thank you. I'm surprised you held your form for that long.' 'Can do it much longer than that. Best time I've recorded is 58 minutes. Freja's nowhere near as strong with it at the moment. Now let's go.' Lydia then stamped on the accelerator, and the car flew away at top speed.

In the base

Freja was fretting over how long her sister was taking. 'C'mon Lydia, you're making me nervous. Please don't have been caught by Birchall, don't know what I'd do without you. Makes me kinda miss having no mind.'

Maddy then came up behind her. 'Hey Freja, know where Lydia is?' 'No, why?' 'Because I want to talk to her about something.' 'I think she said she was going to the supermarket – something about being out of oats?' 'Oh, for Astrid's breakfast. That's thoughtful of her.'

The car was just nearing the base when the police pulled them over. Phil looked nervous, but Lydia was much calmer. 'Hi officer.' 'There's been reports of a banned drive around the area, so we're doing random stops. May I see your license?' Lydia produced the fake provisional. 'Do you have a full license holder with you?'

'Phil, need you to show your license.' He then passed his license over. 'Sorry, I'm a learner, Phil's been kind enough to let me practice motorway driving with his car.' While the first officer checked the insurance details, the second one noticed Allyx. 'What's wrong with your friend?'

'She's asleep – she finished a 12 hour shift not too long ago. She's an absolute workaholic.' 'Can you wake her?' 'I wouldn't bother – she sleeps like a rock. I once scalded her with some water from the kettle while she was asleep by accident and she didn't even react.'

The first officer then came back. 'Mr. Robinson is it?' 'Robinson-Cummings now, I've not had chance to update the name on the license yet.' 'Are you aware of your insurance status?' 'Yes, it runs out in around 3 weeks. I have found a new deal, I'm planning on contacting them tomorrow with my details.'

Lydia then leant out of the window. 'If it helps, I saw someone up in Gateshead who was driving real bad – speeding and undertaking. Blue Jaguar F-Type.' 'Thank you. You're free to go. Have a nice day ma'am and get your friend a pillow for god's sake.' 'Don't worry, she'll be in bed soon. Got muscles over there to lift her.'

As the police left, Lydia and Phil hi-fived. 'Nice going there Lydia. I must say I'm impressed.' 'Thanks.' 'And I wanted to thank you for helping me today.' 'Listen, I can't bring her back. So I'll at least make sure her body gets the respect it deserves. Besides, it's about time I did something cool. Freja's the one who does all the cool and reckless stuff, I'm just the rock that keeps her out of trouble.'

'Well let it be known that I appreciate your help.' 'We'd better get back, Fre will be worried sick.' Lydia then accelerated off again, black tyre smoke flooding the road behind them. 'Let's go.'

In the base

Freja was starting to fret. 'You should be here by now Lydia. I swear if you've got yourself caught...' Lydia then walked into the base, as Phil carried Allyx on his shoulder. 'Hi guys.' Freja immediately ran up to her sister, and bowled her over with a hug. 'You miss me?' 'Swear to god if you ever do that to me again I'll personally deal with you. I thought you'd been caught by him with how long you took!'

'Caught? Course not, we were just delayed by the police. Apparently they're looking for a disco'd driver.' Maddy then walked in, and saw Allyx on Phil's shoulder. 'Anybody care to explain what's going on?' 'Just using the converter.'

Lydia then hit Phil in the arm, and walked over to Maddy. 'We've retrieved Allyx from Birchall. Please can we use a dark bed?' 'Since you asked so nicely, yes. I was going to say no until you asked.'

As Lydia took Allyx's hair down and laid her in the dark bed (a plastic pod with a small amount of dark water in), Maddy walked over to her. 'Lydia, my office, 5 minutes.' 'I understand.' After Lydia turned the intensity up to 20%, she stroked her forehead. 'We'll have you back in no time.'

As Lydia walked into the office, Maddy nodded at the door, and the elder twin slammed it shut. 'Sit down. Now what were you up to?' 'I want you to guarantee one thing.' 'Depends.' 'I want you to hear the entire story. Also don't have a go at Phil, it was all my idea.' 'I will make no promises on the latter. But if your story is honest, I will hear you out.'

'Right, so Phil threw his phone across the base and nearly hit me in the face with it. He's angry because there's been a break-in at the mortuary and Hannah's body and coffin have gone missing. So I suggested going up to Gretna to investigate because we had a theory that it was Birchall, due to the fact the owner of the mortuary was shot.'

'So we went down there, saw Allyx, and I kinda thought she'd know stuff about what's going on. So we pulled into a little road nearby, and I transformed into Kieran. We then drove back around, and I lured Allyx into the car by telling her James wanted to speak to her. When she got in the car we deadlocked it, and when we were out of sight Phil injected her with what I guess was anaesthetic ? Anyway that's what happened.'

'And the thing with the police? Remember – I hear everything.' 'As I told Freja, that was just they were looking for a disqualified driver and pulled us over as a routine stop. That's everything,' 'Absolutely everything?' 'Honest yeah, 100%.' 'I believe you. What you did was reckless Lydia. It's what I'd expect from your sister.'

'Well I had to do something didn't I?' 'I take it Freja knew?' 'Yeah. Don't punish her for it – I asked her not to say anything.' Maddy then pushed her chair back slightly. 'Lydia, I hope you understand' 'Just do what you have to.' 'I hope you understand that there's a reason nobody here can go after James. He is a dangerous psychopath with a gun who has already taken a life. We have to protect ourselves and everyone else in the club. You were lucky that you timed it well, otherwise he could have caught you and got into the base.'

'I am forced in this situation to give you a written warning Lydia. I trust you understand the concept?' 'Of course.' 'However, I will downgrade it to a verbal warning.' 'Uh, why?' 'Because what you did was in the interests of the club. You got back a club member who I feel was in danger in Allyx.'

'She isn't a club member though.' 'Allyx was still a member of the Renegades when he started to manipulate her. So in summary, I'm giving you a verbal warning – the next time you want to become the equivalent of G.I. Jane, consult with me first. I think we're done here. Alright?' 'Right. And Freja?' 'I understand familial loyalty. Now I think we've been through enough recently, alright?'

As Lydia walked out of the office, her sister was waiting for her. 'Didn't think I was going to let you go there by yourself did you?' 'Got lucky – verbal warning. We really need to talk about stuff though.' 'You're right Fre.'

Meanwhile, back in the hospital

'Rio, what aren't you telling me?' The Idahoan looked around nervously. 'If you can't tell me who can you tell?' Kelly then tapped Rio on the shoulder. 'If you want, I'll give you girls a few minutes.' A nod was all it took for Kelly to leave the room. Rio then began to confess her sins.

'I was… just so weak. Some doctor came in, and left a sca… sca… cutty thing on the table. I picked it up, and my hand was shaking, yet it felt like… I was stronger than ever. Because I'd accepted my fate. I thought it was my reason Hannah was dead, so I tried to join her, I felt it was the only way.

'What, you mean you tried to' 'Commit suicide, yeah. And then I woke up, I was expecting some clouds, maybe a harp, but I was still here. That's what the stitches are, where I cut.' 'How did you…..' Blair's words tailed off as she saw the piece of fabric she had picked up earlier. 'Maddy…'

'She saved my life B. She said she'd look after me.' 'She did… how can I ever repay her?' Rio then touched Blair's hand tenderly. 'Please forgive me.' As Jade walked in, Blair angrily confronted her. 'So where were you in all this huh?' 'All what?' 'Did you know?' 'Know what? I haven't a clue what you're talking' 'Rio, your "best friend", tried to commit suicide. Did you know?'

'Yeah, I was here.' 'Didn't you think to stop her?' 'I wasn't in the ward – I'd gone to get her some water.' Seriously? You call that looking after her? Could you not tell she was tender?' 'Of course I could! Of course I knew! She asked me to get her some water, I had no idea what she had planned! And while we're at it, do you not think you're responsible?'

'Me responsible?' 'Yeah, you. I was here Blair, I was here for her. Meanwhile you were getting into fights in Michigan. So yeah, I should have stayed in the room. But at least I was here! So don't blame me for Rio's decisions! She's old enough to not need either of us mothering her.' Blair then pushed Jade over, and left the hospital.

The next day, in a park, Newcastle

Jade came strolling over, and found Blair waiting for her. 'You wanted to talk?' 'Sit down.' As Jade sat down, Blair looked nervous. 'I guess I've never been good at grand speeches or anything, so um… sorry. I shouldn't have spoken to you the way I did yesterday.'

'Too right – I did my best to look after Rio while you were gone.' 'I know. I was just...' 'Angry, upset, confused? Yeah, me too.' 'If it wasn't for you and Kelly and everyone else, Rio wouldn't be recovering so well, if at all.' 'I'm glad you realise that.'

'I just want you to tell me one thing.' 'Of course.' 'Maddy, it was really her who saved Rio?' 'Yeah. Like I've never seen anything like it. Almost like autopilot took over, she just took her headband off, asked for a pair of scissors, and cut it up, before tying it around Rio's stomach like a tourniquet. That stemmed the bleeding until the doctors came in.'

'How long did it take them?' 'I have no idea, it felt like about 10 hours from where I was, time almost stopped. I thought she was dead. But she was still beating, still fighting. Only us three, Phil, and one of the twins really know what happened. Maddy won't take any credit though. Is now a good time to tell you that I really missed you while you were away?' The two girls embraced, both crying.

In the base

While Maddy was out of her office having lunch, Claude took advantage, and snuck in there. 'Right, let's see what you're hiding. I'll bet Rio was never in "critical condition" at all.' Claude started rooting through all the club files, before finding Rio's personal file.

'Let's see… born January 24th 1987, born in Twin Falls, parents died in a car crash, estranged brother, joined during World Championships, damn – nothing useful there.' Claude continued to root through all the files, before throwing them back in. 'I swear she's so secretive, it's stupid! Stupid! Stupid!'

Suddenly he noticed Maddy's draw was slightly open. After opening it, he found a letter. 'It's from Maddy, to Hannah. 17th November? Hannah was dead by then. Let's see what it says.' The letter read "Dear Mam. I know you can't be with us anymore, but I want to continue writing to you just to feel like you're still there. You know, I saved a life earlier. Rio tried to top herself, I managed to bind the wound. Shoulda felt like a hero, but I didn't. I felt like an idiot. For not seeing it coming. I shouldn't have let Rio be in that situation, and if Birchall had his way, it'd be me lying cold and not you. Dad can't cope without you. Love you, Mads."

Claude smirked at that. 'I'll take your empire as my own Maddy. And you. First though, I have a certain Ms. Kastle to take care of, once and for all.' Claude took the letter, and closed the draw, before leaving.

As he was leaving the base, he bumped into Akiza. 'Akiza, I wanted to talk to you.' 'Why?' 'Because I'm about to get rid of Rio for good. And after that, I'll help you take Maddy for yourself.' 'Thanks, but I don't need your help with that. I already understand what I must do.' Akiza then walked off, leaving Claude confused.

At the hospital

Rio was standing up, and with Kelly's help, walking. 'If you don't mind I might go outside?' 'You sure? It's cold out there.' 'I need… to feel it.' 'I got you.' As they started to move, Blair came in. 'You're not stupidly trying to walk again are you?' 'B, we went' 'If you're going to insist on doing this, at least get Kelly to text me or something.'

As the three of them got outside, Rio, for the first time since being shot, truly smiled. 'Forgot how much I missed being cold. Makes you feel… alive.' 'I get what you mean. And after what you've been through, it's just what you need.' 'No kidding it is.'

Kelly then got alarmed, as a familiar blonde figure approached the hospital. Before he could say anything though, Phil started to back him up. 'Claude, you heard what Maddy said, you can't be here. Turn around and she never finds out.'

Claude laughed. 'I don't care what she says anymore. Because her little toy empire is about to fall. But first I've got some business to deal with.' Claude then headbutted Phil, before marching over, and pushing Blair to the ground, before throwing Kelly into the wall.

He then grabbed Rio, as she punched him, and shoved her against a wall. 'I'm going to make sure you never leave this place. Yeah, I tried to rape Blair. Because she's worthless! As for you? Well after James shot you there's nothing left of you. You're nothing now! A never was and a never will be. You nearly ruined my life. If you had your way I'd be in jail now. And I know your dirty little secret. Barian scum like you shouldn't be in the Renegades. Barian scum'

At this point, Blair kicked him between the legs, and then picked him up, before throwing him into the ground. At this point her eyes narrowed, and her Advanced Transformation went off, as she started punching Claude over and over again.

This turned out into an all-out brawl, before staff from the hospital tried to separate them. As Blair was dragged off of Claude and turned around, Claude picked up a set of brass knuckles from his pocket, and went to hit Blair with them, but instead suddenly started flailing, before slowly slumping to the ground, as Phil had him in a choke-hold. He then tossed his phone to Rio. 'Maddy, speed dial.'

'Hello, Maddy, it's Rio. Listen, Claude's at the hospital, and he's attacked us, he's totally snapped, Phil's managed to stop him.' As Claude fell to the ground, Phil let go, before rushing over to Rio. 'Are you hurt?' 'Not bad, thanks.' Phil then checked on Blair, who was still furious. 'Let me at him, I'll have him this time, I'll have him!'

'No, you won't.' He then helped Blair back up, showing her Claude, who was just regaining his senses. 'He's in no shape to fight. There's no threat now.' Blair's armour vanished again, and she started to calm down. 'Ri… Rio!' 'She's fine Blair. I've already checked. As for you Rio, all this cold weather will be doing you no good.'

'C'mon Phil!' 'Little and often.' Maddy then phoned back. 'Get Claude to my office now. He left me with no choice.' Phil hoisted Claude up, before throwing him into the back of his car, and driving off, with Blair in the passenger seat.

In the base

As Claude walked into the base, everybody looked at him tensely, with evils, and Maddy was waiting for him. 'Office, now!' Claude duly entered the office, with Maddy issuing a warning to the club. 'If I catch anybody listening in to this conversation, they will be suspended immediately. Do I make myself clear?' As everybody nodded, she entered the office, and slammed the door.

Once there, it was time. 'Claude, I have given you a chance, I allowed you back in, I made sure everybody showed respect to you, I even put my neck on the line to make sure you had the best possible chance of integrating back with everyone else. And this is how you repay me?'

'Maddy' 'I don't want to hear it. You are on probation Claude. And you deal with that by attacking four other club members, plotting against me, and stealing from my office?' 'Come on, I want to explain.' 'I'm not interested in hearing it anymore. Fool me once, shame on you. Fool me twice? That'll never happen.'

'Claude Wolfgang Duane, as of today, you are expelled from the Renegades. You have the statutory 72 hours to collect all your belongings, anything left behind will become property of the Renegades. You may make as many trips as required to remove everything, but your I.D. card will not work and you will need to be observed by a club member at all times. The one item you may not take with you is your Renegades jacket, that will be recycled and used for a future club member. After the 72 hours, if you are still here, you will be invited to leave. If you don't, you will officially be trespassing.'

'Let me guess, you're reporting me to the police.' 'That decision is Blair's only. Now please leave Claude.' Before he did, Claude had one last stinging remark for Maddy. 'Hannah was much more capable than you ever will be. She saw the potential in me.' 'I will not be defined by my parents, nor will I make their mistakes. Please leave Claude.' He then turned, and left the office, as Maddy called a meeting later that day.

'Thank you for coming here again. I want to officially announce that as of 3:42pm this afternoon, Claude Duane is no longer a member of the Renegades. He has been expelled for assault, theft, and breach of probation.' Everyone cheered, but Maddy wasn't happy. 'Let this be a warning to you all. I will not accept any club member assaulting any other, and I will not accept anybody undermining my leadership. I want you to all understand now, we are one. And if you don't like that, I'll let you leave now. Club dismissed.'

As the members dispersed, Phil went over to his daughter. 'What are you doing right now?' 'Well, I need to wake Leo up so his spell can take hold, I need to then make sure Lydia set the dark bath up right, and then Blair wants to talk to me.' 'I'll check the dark bath, you speak to Blair.'

'Why'd you ask?' 'Because I was wondering if you fancied me taking you for a meal tonight.' 'Yeah, sounds awesome, thanks Dad. Listen, I'm sorry I've not exactly been friendly at times lately.' 'You don't need to apologise. It's me who needs to, because I've not been there for you like I should. I've been so wrapped up in my own grief I didn't think to check how you were.' 'It's alright, I think we're both at fault.'

After they hugged, Maddy found Blair. 'Y'alright?' 'Yeah, you wanted to talk?' 'Yeah like it's not urgent' 'Well I'm available now if you like.' 'Ok, sure.' After they both went to the office, Blair shut the door.

'So what's up?' 'Maddy, I know what you did.' 'You're going to have to be a little more specific Blair.' 'At the hospital?' 'Again, you're going to have to narrow it down, done quite a bit there.' 'I know that Rio tried to kill herself. And you saved her life.'

Maddy then leant forwards. 'No Blair, the doctors saved Rio. All I did was reduce the bleeding. I'm no hero, I just did what anyone would have done.' 'I… I wish I could repay you in some way. But there's nothing I could possibly do.' 'It's flattering Blair, it really is. The only way you can repay me is by serving the club like you always do. Now I wanted to talk to you about the tour.'

'Duelling? Of course.' 'There's two events left this year. And we still haven't got the tag titles off of Nash and Mizar.' 'So you want my help?' 'Correct.' 'But Rio...' 'I was wondering if you could find someone else? Once you've won the titles if you don't feel the chemistry we can arrange for Lydia and Freja to get the titles off of you.'

'Right. One condition.' 'You get to pick the partner?' 'It's a deal.' 'Only condition is that we need to know by the time we head out to Quebec.' 'Of course. I'll drop a text when I've done it.' 'Thanks. Now unless you've got anything else to say, I have to go and see our new recruit.' 'Mind if I come with you?' 'Of course not.'

Blair and Maddy then went up to the top floor, and into the first room, where Luna was sat on her own, waiting. 'Luna, come with me.' 'Yes mistress' She whispered, obediently. The three of them then went to the isolation suite. As they entered, Leo was sat there, with a pink helmet on, staring at the ground.

'Leo, your sister's here.' Luna then walked to him. 'Luna… who am I?' 'We are slaves of the Renegades. We must obey for the rest of our lives, we belong to them.' 'I don't… understand' 'We don't understand, we just obey. We must obey Leo, we must obey.'

'Yes, we must obey' Leo replied, his spell having been completely activated. Maddy then walked over to Leo, and took his ponytail down. 'I like you Leo. I'm keeping you both as my little pets from now on. Now I will take you both down to the kitchen, and you will both clean it until it is absolutely spotless. Once done, I want you to come to me Leo, while you wait in the kitchen Luna. Do you understand?' They both replied in unison, no emotions behind their vocalisations. 'Yes mistress.'

After they were taken down to the kitchen to start work, Maddy found Lydia. 'So what's the plan with Allyx?' 'Once she's awake, same as those two – strip her of all her personality, make her an empty shell. We'll extract all her memories first though.'

'Good to hear.' 'Thinking of giving her to Dad as a pet. Now if you could excuse me a moment, I need to talk to Jodi.' 'Oh yeah of course.' 'No hard feelings about the warning by the way?' 'Course not, I understand completely.'

In the office

'What did you call me in here for Maddy?' 'With Kris' diagnosis and the fact he's unavailable for physical work, I had an idea.' 'Right.' 'You've been saying that your real job is to serve Dad, right?' 'Why I'm here.' 'Well I'll discuss it with Kris later, but I've devised a system where you work here three days a week and the other 4 days you're there for Dad.'

'That sounds fine by me.' 'So your first day back serving him is tomorrow.' 'That sounds fine. It's great that you're finding Kris something to do.' 'I know, thanks.' As Jodi left the office, Phil was waiting. 'Jodi, with me now please. I want to stroke your hair.' Jodi smiled. 'Yes master, I obey only you.'

The next day, in the hospital

Around 2pm, Blair and Maddy were visiting Rio in the hospital, when Rio sat up. 'You don't mind if you help me outside do you?' 'Of course we don't mind Rio.' 'Thanks.' The two girls then helped Rio up, and walked with her. After just a few steps however, the Idahoan pushed both of them away, and then slowly but surely, stumbled her way across the room. Maddy then ran to the end of the room, and waited for Rio, who eventually reached the end of the room, and smiled, breathing heavily, as Blair marvelled. 'I can't believe you managed that.' 'That? That was just the beginning!'

Next time: Good news for Rio, a rude awakening for James, and H.R.C. makes their presence known in Renegades: A New Dawn Chapter IX: Deceit