CHAPTER 47

PARTING OF THE WAYS

From under the shade of palm trees, Ange gazed over the dawn blue and gold mixed sky. She had gotten very little sleep over the past 6 hours since they had arrived on this small jungle island that had been marked as the extraction point, praying that Cal would appear with Siegfried at any moment. From within a small cave behind her, she could just hear the twin's whispered conversation with Dolton. Lucas hissed from Lucia's attempt to redress his numerous slash wounds she stitched up last night.

"We can't wait any longer, if Cal doesn't arrive soon, we'll just have to move on and get the girls back to Arzenal." Lucas insisted. "Ow, Lucia!"

"Sorry." Lucia apologized in alarm. "But I don't think it's right to just leave Cal behind."

"I agree with Lucas, besides the Sanctuary will have sent a search party to look for him by now." Dolton told them which made Ange feel slightly more at ease knowing there were people out looking for Cal.

"Do you think that Dutch is dead too?" Lucia wondered.

"I just pray that bastard stays dead this time." Lucas growled. "I swear if it weren't for the fact Cal was ordered to keep Dutch's identity quiet, I'd rip his jaw off."

"I can't believe Hilda lied straight to my face." Lucia said bitterly.

"Hey take it easy." Dolton urged. "Jacob just wanted you both to be focused on the task at hand." From what Tusk had explained briefly to Ange, this Dutch Villson was responsible for not just killing Cal's Gramps, which explained a lot, but also the twins' father. 'Damn it,' Ange fretted. 'What the hell is going on here? What the hell did we get involved in?' "You don't think the pilot of that black unit has taken Cal to Embryo do you?" Dolton wondered.

"I hope not," Lucas grimaced. "Even with Villkiss, without Siegfried we're at a major disadvantage." 'And that's another thing. What's so important about me and Villkiss?' Ange wondered. "And what the hell is Libertus and Embryo?' Across the beach Ange smelled something smokey and salty waft over from where Tusk and Finn were cooking four large mullet over a fire. Finn had guilt written all over his face from leading the charge against the black unit that resulted in their comrades' deaths and Ange couldn't help but feel sorry for him.

"Excuse me." Momoka spoke up as she appeared alongside the teenage boy called Frenzy. "I must tend to Lady Angelise. Can you just give me 5 minutes please." Frenzy had been flirting with and trying to chat up the maid ever since they landed, at one point yawning in an exaggerated manner in an attempt to rest his arm around Momoka before Ange chased him out of the cave.

"Whatever you say. I'll be here if you need me." Frenzy said with a cheeky grin before heading back into the cave, much to Momoka's relief as she handed Ange a water canteen containing the disgusting medicine Cal had shared with them.

"Lift up your sleeve so I can check your stitches." Ange did so and Momoka wrapped a fresh strip of gauze around her bicep. "That Lucia did a fine job cleaning and stitching up that nasty cut, though I fear it will leave a nasty scar."

"I guess we've got that in common now." Ange said as she gave a thin smile towards Momoka's own scar across her forearm. "That Frenzy kid is some piece of work. He reminds me of those creeps back at Ho-Oh Academy who used to spy on us during Iaria practice."

"Well, at least he knows his place and not to bother you." Momoka supposed. "If he ever does just let me know and I'll deal with him." Ange knew that was no idle threat. Despite her usually demure behavior, Momoka kept a frying pan on her in the event anyone tried to get fresh with her mistress. Ange remembered one time in particular she had almost caused an international incident when she walloped the nephew of the Velda Queen at a state banquet for attempting to kabedon Ange.

"Breakfast time." Tusk called as he walked up with a fire roasted mullet for both of them. Although Ange had beaten him to a pulp last night, he still seemed cheerful as ever to her which made her heart flutter slightly. "I'm sorry about before." He muttered sheepishly. "I don't really have much experience complimenting girls."

"You don't say." Ange deadpanned. "Just don't do it again or I'll really let you have it." She warned as her face brightened at finally having some real food and began to dig in. "Thank you, it tastes so good." She beamed, stuffing her cheeks to the brim.

"Manners Lady Angelise." Momoka reminded her. As they ate, Ange couldn't help but say what was on her mind to Tusk.

"Do you think Cal is okay? What was that unit and who was piloting it?"

"I don't know but I've seen one similar to it before." Tusk said gravely before noticing how deeply worried Ange seemed. "Hey, don't worry, I may have only known Cal for a few days, but I know he wouldn't give up on you, Hilda, and the rest of us. I'm sure he's just fine." Moments passed by in awkward silence before Tusk stood up and entered the cave to give the twins their own fish and Ange kept thinking about what he had said last night. He had called that unknown unit a Ragna-mail. Villkiss, her ring, these non-Mana users, Embryo? It only made Ange burn for more answers that she was sure Commander Jill had.

"Miss Hilda sure is taking Sir Cal's absence hard." Momoka pointed out snapping Ange out of her train of thoughts. A short distance away, Hilda was leaning against a tree on her own, the temporary violet dye in her hair was fading out, now resembling an ugly dark puce color. Although she and Hilda had never gotten along, Ange couldn't help but share Hilda's concerns for Cal.

Hoping that Siegfried would finally appear, Hilda kept her eyes glued to the horizon. Someone approached her, and Hilda looked over to see Ange standing with some of the mullet Tusk had cooked. Though she offered a bite, Hilda declined. The worry was too much for her to keep down food. "Hey, he'll be fine. He always manages to fight his way out of things." Ange said hopefully.

"It's not that." Hilda sighed. "I just wish I could have helped him instead of doing nothing."

"Then you would have died rather pathetically." Ange said blatantly. Hilda shot her a glare but couldn't help smirking a bit before chuckling slightly.

"You're a real bitch sometimes you know that?"

"There's a case of the pot calling the kettle black. But I get why you're scared."

"Who's says I'm scared?"

"We all are." Ange pointed out. "I hated sitting back and not being able to help him either. But it's not like we could have done anything to help without our Para-mail." Hilda managed a half smile and nodded.

"I suppose you're right." Hilda agreed. "Next time I'll be fighting by his side instead of going off on my own with Rosalie, Chris, and Miranda. I can't allow him to keep being our shield. It'll get him killed one day." Ange grinned back before her expression dropped until she finally spoke in a low quiet voice.

"Hey Hilda. I just wanted to say I'm…" The words almost lodged in Ange's throat. "I'm sorry, for what happened to Zola. It was my…"

"Look just forget about it." Hilda sighed. "Nothing can change what happened." Hilda turned her head away but managed to choke it out. "And…I guess I'm sorry about…that as well."

"Girls come in here!" Tusk called out from the cave. "They found Cal!" Hilda's heart almost leapt from her chest as she Ange and Momoka bolted for the cave where everyone gathered around Lucas who was talking on the radio.

"The good news is Cal and Siegfried are fine." A hard gravelly voice came from the radio. "We're on our way back to Arzenal. In the meantime, you better get the cargo there first before we arrive. I've already informed the Commander of your arrival, just stay hidden until we pick you all up."

"Yes Captain Jacob, we understand." Lucas confirmed.

"Is Cal, okay?" Ange interrupted, only to be cut off when Hilda snatched the radio out of Lucas' hand.

"Oi!"

"Is Cal alive?!" she demanded franticly.

"Who is this? State your name." said Captain Jacob warily through the radio.

"Never mind that, just answer the question!"

"Let me guess you must be Cal's companion Hilda?" He guessed. "Yes he's alive, just knocked out. Don't worry, he's in good hands." The color rose back into Hilda's face.

"Thank you so much for finding him. Now tell him to get his butt back to Arzenal so I can kick it myself!"

"10-4. Over and out." Jacob confirmed Hilda as Lucas looked at her disapprovingly.

"Alright we've wasted enough time." He snapped yanking back the radio from her. "Everyone start packing up. We move in 5."

In no time at all, the surviving members of Team G.H.O.S.T packed up and continued their journey back to Arzenal. Ange watched through the trailer windows as the sky began to turn crystal blue and while overjoyed that Cal was found and alive, she dreaded what would await her at Arzenal.

"Looks like we're here." Dolton announced and Ange saw the horizon change to jagged cliffs as they landed on one of Arzenal's beaches. Once she, Hilda and Momoka exited the trailer with Dolton, Ange gazed up at Arzenal's cliffs feeling an odd sense of relief. Like it or not, this place was now home.

"Good luck girls." Lucia winked at her and Hilda. "Hopefully the Commander isn't too brutal with her punishment." Ange shivered, recalling her traumatic first night at Arzenal with the Commander's so-called cavity search.

"Solitary confinement is no joke sister." Hilda said grimly before she looked at Lucia in shame. "Look,I'm sorry I lied to you about…"

"It's fine." Lucia sighed. "But remember, you and Cal are alive thanks to us. So when we do meet again, you're both going to owe us double."

"Fair enough." Hilda agreed.

"Maybe the Commander will be merciful to you both if you apologize." Momoka said hopefully to Ange.

"I doubt it Momoka." Ange grimaced. "The Commander can be an uptight stuck up…"

"I'd choose your next words carefully if I were you princess." Ange and Hilda jerked towards the beach gate where Commander Jill stood, her eyes like purple ice. "I'll deal with you two in a minute." She scowled with daggers in her eyes. It was then Ange noticed the woman standing next to the Commander wasn't Salia, but Scarlett. 'What's she doing here?' Ange wondered. In fact, the Commander seemed to have brought along an entire squad of security staff along with her.

"Seems the Commander has formed herself a circle of cronies." Hilda whispered, feeling just as uneasy as Ange. But though it seemed the guys' presence unnerved the security staff, Scarlett seemed strangely unfazed.

Jill meanwhile scanned over her unexpected guests, her gaze lingering a few seconds on Tusk. 'He looks just like his father.' She thought with a slight smile. He may have Vanessa's brown hair, but he had Istvan's looks and eyes.

"Commander Jill." The taller of the men saluted as he stepped towards her. "It's me Lucas. It's been a while."

"You've grown." Jill looked him up and down impressively. "I appreciate all that you've done." She said as she glanced at the others who waved curtly. "But we'll have to save the introductions for another day. Your Captain told me he's on his way with Cal and will be collecting you all soon. I want you and your team to hide your vehicles in case the Inspector and her bodyguard suspect anything."

"What's happened with Cal? Where is he?" Scarlett demanded and Jill shot her a disproving look. She had warned Scarlett not to ask questions until they were safely hidden.

"Don't worry, Cal's alive." Answered the woman whom Jill recognized as Lucas's twin Lucia.

"Enough with the chat, we don't have time." Jill said firmly before addressing Lucas. "The tunnel exit is to the west side of the island. Zhoa Mei will be waiting for you. Scarlett will show you the way."

"I guess this is where we part ways again." Tusk grinned through his swollen face at Ange who felt her heart sink.

"Where will you go now?"

"Don't know, but we'll need to know what your brother, that Dutch guy and the NMB are planning next. Maybe we'll find out who that unknown pilot was too."

"I never thanked you for saving me." said Ange dryly, rubbing the rope burn across her throat.

"Your song was amazing." Tusk said abruptly and Ange looked up at him in surprise. "It's the first time I've heard someone sing like that. But it felt kind of familiar too. Think you'll sing it again for me?"

"Sure." Ange agreed and before she could stop herself, she hugged him. Tusk froze in stunned disbelief before Ange looked into Tusk's dark purple eyes and rose on her tip toes towards his face, not caring people were staring at them. But the moment was cut off as one of the security personnel grabbed her arm tightly and put both her and Hilda in cuffs.

"Is this really necessary?" Hilda snapped.

"Be gentle with Lady Angelise. She's still injured." Momoka begged as Dolton and Finn held her back.

"Don't get involved, trust me you don't want to be in their position." Dolton advised.

"Take them to the cells." Jill commanded as Ange and Hilda were led through the beach gate and down the dimly lit tunnel. Ange quickly got a backwards glance back at Tusk before they turned a corner and he vanished from her sight.

Once Ange and Hilda were led away to the stockade, Commander Jill turned her attention back to Scarlett. "Captain don't let the maid out of your sight. And keep a watchful eye on our guests until I deal with our escapees." Scarlett saluted as Jill followed the security staff down the tunnel though secretly, she felt a rush of anger as she was only going along with Jill's orders for Cal's sake.

"I sure wouldn't want to get on HER bad side." Dolton whispered to Finn.

"Yeah well, at least the redhead looks a little friendlier." The big man noted.

"No Kidding." Frenzy drooled with stars in his eyes. "Just check out those muscles. AND those curves. If she's a typical resident than I wanna move out here."

"I'm Captain Scarlett of second squad." Scarlett introduced herself with another salute.

"Lieutenant Lucas of the Sanctuary." Lucas answered. "This is my twin sister, second lieutenant Lucia. And that's Tusk. Apparently, you can thank Ange for why he looks like that. The big guy is Finn. The guy with glasses is our head of tech Dolton, and the drooling one is Frenzy." Scarlett greeted each of them, though when Frenzy wouldn't stop staring at her cleavage, she grabbed him by the jaw and nearly lifted him off the sand as she pulled up his gaze.

"You'll never get the girls from here to like you if you ogle them like that kid." Scarlett warned with a pulsing temple before turning to Tusk. "A bit on the skinny side for my taste but nothing a few gym routines can't fix. I'm impressed that you managed to romance the princess of all people. Though judging by what your friend said, you might want to work on talking her up."

"Yeah I don't have a lot of experience with girls." Tusk sheepishly admitted.

"Well neither did Cal, but spend a little time here and you might find all the experience you could want." Scarlett joked. "I know he'd be happy to have some of the pressure taken off of him."

"Alright meet and greet's over." Lucas interrupted. "We don't want your Inspector walking in on us remember?" As there wasn't enough room on the 3 skyhooks Scarlett helped boost Momoka up atop the trailer as Lucia volunteered to give Scarlett her space behind Finn.

"You need a hand up buttercup?" Scarlett smirked as she offered Lucia a boost.

"Excuse me!" Lucia said crossly as she leapt atop the trailer. "The name's Lucia!" She turned her head away indignantly as she caught Scarlett's eye while everyone held in their laughter. Scarlett had to admit Lucia was very pretty. She looked to be the same age as her, slightly taller with a more athletic and curvy build than most of the other girls at Arzenal. And her long navy-blue hair rivaled the beauty of the night sky. After hopping on behind Finn, who tensed nervously as Scarlett put her arms around his thick waist, they flew low and quiet around the rim of the island, sea spray peppering their lower halves until a small figure in orange waved at them from a cave along the tide line.

"Hey Mei, long time no see." Tusk waved as the young armorist beamed at the sight of him.

"Woah, when did you get so tall?" Mei gaped. "Guess Cal can't call me short anymore when he stands next to you."

"You'll get there someday." Tusk teased back as they flew inside.

Struggling to keep up, Hilda and Ange were dragged through Arzenal's hallways until they came to the solitary confinement block. However, to their surprise instead of being taken straight to their cells, they were brought to an empty stone room that held no bars or beds as they were uncuffed and pushed against the wall.

"What's this about?" Hilda demanded from Commander Jill.

"Strip them." Jill ordered. Before Ange and Hilda could react, their escorts seized and tore off their clothes and forcibly removed Ange's ring from her until both were completely naked. "Stay against the wall." Jill warned as they bagged their removed clothes before one girl approached with a hose.

"Don't you dare!" Ange shouted before a torrent from the hose blasted her and Hilda. They both shrieked from the ice-cold water, feeling as if icy fists were punching their bare skin as some of the security staff cackled with enjoyment. Fortunately, the humiliating ordeal ended as quickly as it started as Ange and Hilda were dragged out of the room and thrown into a cell, the door slamming shut with a loud clang. "What the hell was that about?!" Ange yelled at Jill, who stood and gloated at them from outside the cell.

"Just making sure we dispose of all the evidence where you two have been." Jill answered holding the jade gem royal ring between her fingers. "I would have given out your sentences, but I have more important things to do." She gave them one last scornful look before she turned and left.

"I almost forgot how heavy handed she can be when you get on her bad side." Hilda said through chattering teeth. The dye in Hilda's drenched hair had been washed out now as a few blotches ran down her wet skin.

"You got that right." It was then that with all the makeup washed off from Hilda's face, Ange noticed a healing bruise under her eye, along with a boot print across Hilda's rib and deep scratches all up and down her legs. "They look bad."

"Well, that's what happens when you get jumped by 50 cops and run through the forest bare legged." Said Hilda scornfully. "Though I got off pretty easy compared to you." Ange simply hugged her body more tightly, the cold creeping through every fiber of her body.

"How long will we be here?" She looked around the tiny cell seeing nothing but two hard wooden beds chained to both sides of the wall and a single toilet.

"A few days at least." Hilda shrugged as she perched on one of the bunks. "Escape is the worst crime you can commit here." Ange groaned as she huddled shivering on her own bunk. It was bad enough to share the same cell as Hilda without having to hear her go to the bathroom less than four feet from her.

Half an hour had passed by and yet the Commander of Arzenal had not returned. To pass the time, Mei busied herself by working on their machines. "I see you made some vast improvements on the old skyhooks." She noted. Indeed, the newer machines from Sanctuary were sleeker and more pristine than Tusk's. "Glad to see you kept Istvan's skyhook in good condition. Mind if I pop the hood?"

"Go ahead." Tusk permitted as Mei began to examine the inside with a small flashlight.

"Damn, when was the last time you gave this poor guy a clean out from the inside?" She said a little affronted. "And look at all these rusted bolts. It's a miracle the engine hasn't blown apart on you in midair. I'd better give this thing a full tune up."

"You don't have to." Tusk insisted as Mei grabbed her toolbox.

"Don't be ridiculous, it's my job." She waved her hand as she got to work. "Now will you pass me my drill?"

"Here you go." Frenzy said as handed Mei the tool instead with a massive grin. "You really know your stuff. I heard from the stories that you're the best armorist around here."

"Erm…thanks." Mei said awkwardly as Frenzy edged a little closer to her.

"So how did a cute girl like yourself learn to do all this amazing work?"

"Back off pervert!" Mei hissed like an angry cat, gunning the drill towards Frenzy who ran for his life.

"Is he always like this?" Scarlett asked Lucia as they watched from afar.

"Don't even get me started." Lucia groaned. "Last week me and few of the other Norma at our base caught him red handed hiding in one of our changing room lockers." It was then that Lucia heard a faint rumbling outside of the cave. "Do you hear that?"

"Right on que." Lucas smiled. Mei ran to the cave exit and waved two red glowing marshaling wands over her head to signal the approaching aircraft which Lucia saw was none other than Captain Jacob's private gunship. It was the same size as Arzenal's Warhammer aircraft, steel black in color with red stripes, the front of its squared nose mounted a quad heavy bolter cannon beneath the cockpit while two missile pods rose up from the rear above the engines and dual machine guns hung beneath its wings right next to the turbines. Once it landed and the rear ramp opened, Lucia spotted Siegfried parked inside before Captain Jacob and Hosea stepped out. "Cal, Corn! Corn! Cal!" The raven upon Hosea's shoulder cawed as Cal appeared behind them to feed the bird more corn from his palm.

"Cal!" Scarlett cried out pushing past everyone before grabbing him in a rib crushing hug. "Where the hell have you been?"

"Scarlett…I can't…breathe…" Cal wheezed.

"Sir Cal, you're okay." Momoka cheered as she dabbed at her eyes.

"It's good to have you back." Mei said with a thumbs up as Scarlett checked over his face.

"Yeesh what happened to you? I hope the other guy looks even worse."

"Oh don't worry he does." Cal bragged.

Allowing them to have their moment, Captain Jacob approached his godson and embraced him. "It's good to see you again Tusk. I'm glad you've made the choice to return and fight alongside us."

"I have Ange and Cal to thank for that." Tusk smiled. "But are you sure it was a good idea for you to come here? It's not safe for you of all people to be out in the open. Especially with that Ragna-mail pilot out there."

"Maybe." Jacob shrugged. "But we owed it to Cal and you to come personally."

"Hey is anyone gonna give me a hand here." Mei called out by the gunship. "The Commander wants Siegfried back up the main hanger before the Inspector catches on to Cal's return."

"You heard the lady." Hosea ordered. "Dolton, Frenzy, Finn; double time." Together, all four went to assist Mei which left Jacob alone with the twins.

"Why didn't you tell us about Dutch?" Lucas demanded, fighting the urge to strike his CO.

"I know you're both angry at me." Jacob said solemnly. "But I needed you focused on saving Ange. I fully intended to disclose the information to you once the mission was over."

"That's not the point Captain!" Lucia cut in. "We were both attacked by Dutch during the mission! If we'd had known who he was and that he was after Cal, the plan would have changed to best suit the situation. I know you want to appease the Commander of Arzenal so we'd have a chance of joining Libertus, but her having Cal leave Arzenal is what caused all of this!" Just a few yards away, even with Scarlett's constant questioning of Cal, he couldn't help but overhear the argument.

"I'm sorry for not telling you about Dutch sooner, but like it or not we have to do what's best for our people. I have no choice but to go along with what Commander Jill wants. If not then we could be left to squander for ourselves and the Norma to go it alone."

"Keep telling yourself that. She had no faith in us from the start." Lucas sneered. "The simple truth is Cal should never have been involved in this mission. Because of his and Hilda's actions, the mission was compromised. I hate to break it to you; but he's not ready for what's to come. Not until he and the Princess know the whole truth about our people and this world."

"You got a problem dick?!" Scarlett snapped as she shoved Lucas ready to give him a piece of her mind. "You better watch your mouth."

"Alright calm down the both of you!" Jacob snapped as Lucia got between them.

"No. I've had enough of your bullshit Lucas." Cal spat who was held back by Tusk. "I saved your life and risked my own so you all could get away. I even managed to break through the Valkyrie system again and yet that's still not enough for you?! You're pathetic!"

"Ange being the pilot of Villkiss is one thing because there is no choice in that matter. But you have no right to our machine!" Lucas argued. "It was my people who built that machine with their own sweat, tears and blood. I was squire to its original pilot Istvan, who trained me to be the next successor. You just suddenly arrive after living a nice comfortable life sheltered from the world and suddenly think just because you lost people that you have a claim? If anything, Tusk has more right to be the Knight of Villkiss than any of us. Not you!"

"You're wrong Lucas." Tusk interrupted as he stepped into Lucas' space which took Cal, Lucia and Jacob by surprise. "Ever since I witnessed my father's unit come back, I've seen Cal do things with it even my Dad couldn't achieve. He managed to reawaken its power and use both abilities at once. We all witnessed that last night." Tusk paused as his eyes filled with guilt and shame. "Even after all he's lost, Cal kept fighting. But I ran away and hid for 10 years. I'm not worthy to pilot my father's machine."

"Tusk." Lucia whispered tenderly.

"Don't be so hard on yourself." Jacob told him. "If anything, I was to blame for not looking after you like your father would have wanted. Instead, I left you on some island far away from those who would have looked out for you. Despite the poor conditions we lived in before we established the Sanctuary, I never should have ditched you.

"I don't blame you for that." said Tusk. "But I'm tired of hiding. And ever since I met Ange and Cal it made me realize something." Tusk smiled stood tall and proud. "I can't be the Knight of Villkiss, but I can still fight for our people and Ange. Just as Cal does for his squad. And that's good enough for me. There's no one better to pilot Siegfried at this moment other than Cal and you know it, Lucas." It was a nasty pill to swallow as Tusk's words cut into Lucas like a knife.

"He's right Lucas." Lucia added. "We all witnessed last night what Cal is capable of with Siegfried. We need to put our faith in him and Ange if we want Libertus to succeed."

"What the hell is going on here!" Came a voice from the darkness and everyone turned to see Commander Jill step out from the darkness. "I assume your people are behaving themselves, Jacob?"

"Of course Jill." Jacob looked to both Cal and Lucas. "Now listen you two, I trust you both know what is at stake in the coming days." He said with a bite of impatience in his voice. "It's time you set aside your differences and shake hands. We're all on the same side and unless the few of us who know the truth stand united, there is no hope for any of us." Lucia thought Jacob was asking for a miracle but very slowly, yet still glaring at each other with absolute loathing, Lucas and Cal moved towards each other and shook hands. They let go extremely quickly.

"I stand by my words." Lucas said. "He and Ange need to know the whole truth. About our people, this world and HIM."

"What truth?" Cal questioned as he glared at Jill. "What more secrets have you kept from me since I joined Libertus?"

"It's why I came here Lucas." revealed Jacob. "It's about time Cal knew everything. And there are more pressing matters we need to discus in private as well."

"Fine, but that gunship needs to go, it can't stay here for too long." Jill advised. Fortunately, Mei and the others had finished loading Siegfried onto the storage platform that led up to the main hanger.

"Listen up everyone, time is of the essence, and I have work for you all." Jacob addressed his comrades. "Lucia, you'll stay here with Tusk until I return. I'll need someone to keep an eye out before we return to the Sanctuary. Lucas you're our best pilot here so I'm giving you direct control of my gunship. Hosea will be joining you with Finn, Frenzy and Dolton. Park the skyhooks inside. You're heading home back to the Sanctuary." As Hosea and the rest gathered the skyhooks and loaded them up inside the gunship, Jill left to contact her personal security team to stay on the lookout for the Inspector and Corporal.

"I guess I'll see you guys soon." Cal bid farewell. "Next time we meet we'll be fighting alongside each other."

"Take care of yourself kiddo." Hosea smiled warmly. "Make sure Jacob keeps his head on straight. I have a feeling he'll be more than pleased to see Jasmine again." They shook hands before the old man turned away when it suddenly occurred to Cal. Where did his bird go?

"It was great meeting you Cal." Frenzy grinned. "When we meet again, you've gotta teach me your moves. Both as a pilot AND with the ladies."

"I'll…see what I can do." Cal promised. Frenzy gave a final wave and winked to Mei who simply stuck out her tongue in an akanbe gesture before he disappeared inside the aircraft.

"I hope we'll meet each other again soon." said Dolton. "I know things haven't gone as smoothly as I'd hoped, but know I've got your back when Libertus kicks off." Cal smiled and clasped Dolton's outstretched hand. He never thought he would ever make friends with a human.

"Jacob told me he sent you to keep an eye on me. I appreciate you having my back every step of the way. Take care of yourself friend."

"You too Cal." Dolton patted Cal on the shoulder before Finn decided to swallow his pride.

"You did good kid." Finn admitted, rubbing the cut across his brow from where Cal had decked him during their fight. "Next time, I'll teach you not to hit like a girl."

"Yeah and maybe I'll teach you how to block." Cal taunted back. "A nice big target like you is too easy to hit." Finn glared as if he were about to try and slug Cal again, but the big man just relaxed with a snicker.

"You're a good kid Cal. Maybe when this is over, we can go hunting together." Across the other side of the lower hanger, Cal saw Lucia embrace her brother in a tight hug before letting him go so he could board the gunship. He guessed it was a rare occurrence for them to be separated from each other.

"Hey, Lucas." Cal suddenly called. The Lieutenant simply looked back at him blankly. Like it or not, Jacob was right, they needed to clear the air while they still had a moment. "I get how you feel. Dutch Vilson killed someone who was the only father I knew. That's why I have to fight."

"Then just do me a favor and stay out of my way." Lucas said curtly. "You do your job and I'll do mine. I'll handle Dutch Vilson next time." Though it seemed Lucas had finally accepted Cal as Siegfried's pilot for the foreseeable future, the resentment still lingered.

"I can't promise that." Cal said. "This isn't just about you and me. It's about our friends and our families. The ones we've lost and the ones we still have. If anyone threatens them, no matter who else has a claim, then I'm taking them down." Lucas just looked at him with a slackened face. It was honestly scary to see him look so vulnerable and lost.

"Dutch and the humans took everything from me." He finally said. "For years the only thing that kept me going was Lucia and my desire to avenge my father and people. You've already taken Siegfried from me. And I can't let you take this from me too."

"Then we both stand in the way of each other's cause."

"And both are just. But if I fall, I'd have you swear you'll keep Lucia and my people safe."

"And I will have your word that if I die before libertus begins, that you'll take my place as Siegfried's pilot and keep everyone in my squad safe." Cal stepped forward and offered his hand to which Lucas stared at before finally accepting it.

"Agreed." With an uneasy truce established, Lucas vanished inside the gunship alongside the rest. Cal watched as the ramp closed and the vessel lifted off the ground and slowly backed out the cave before turning around and flying off into the distance until Cal could no longer see it.

"Well done Cal." Jacob praised as Cal went to join him and Lucia.

"I'm glad you and Lucas finally see eye to eye." Lucia added. "I understand why you kept Dutch a secret. You had every right not to trust us ourselves when we kept secret about the Norma at our base."

"Yeah well I guess we can't be at each other's throats if we want to survive what's coming." Cal told her. "Though I have you, Tusk and Dolton to thank for having my back when Lucas and others at the harbor didn't. Though your constant flirting didn't help in that regards." Lucia gave him a playful punch before finally Cal got one last chance to bid farewell to Tusk.

"Thanks for having my back against Lucas back there."

"I meant every word." said Tusk. "I know from what I saw last night that you're destined to bring out Siegfried's full potential like my father was close to doing." Cal felt more than a little sorry for Tusk. He hated to admit it but Tusk was wrong. He had just as much right to be the Knight of Vilkiss as Cal did. Maybe more considering his heritage and his relationship with Ange. "But it's thanks to you and Ange that I found the strength to fight again. And I hope one day I can return the favor."

"Just don't throw your face in my crotch while you're at it. I get enough of that already in this place." Both broke into laughter when Commander Jill finally returned.

"I have security stationed so it's now safe for you both to come to my office without the Inspector intruding." She told Cal and Jacob who followed her through the dark dimly lit corridors. Through the corner of his eye, Cal spotted the raven Dexter perched on a rocky ledge high up in the cave wall. Well, it wasn't like he was stuck here. Cal just hoped the bird wouldn't stick around TOO long.

As they climbed the empty stairwell, Cal took a moment to think about Dutch. Knowing that psycho would eventually find out where he was and would likely be planning to target him and his squad troubled Cal deeply.

'Once I take care of you once and for all, I'll go after the Princess next. And then, I'm going to drag every Norma at Arzenal who so much as smiled at you back to the mainland so they can die long and slow.'

And Cal knew that was no idle threat. Well, at least now he was back at Arzenal. The familiar hallways and corridors with the sounds of Arzenal's residents busying themselves around him made him feel a bit at ease. And if Dutch or even Blackadder did show up, Cal would deal with them.

The very moment Jill opened the office door, Jasmine immediately ran forward and put her arms around the young man. "Cal! Thank God your back." Jasmine gasped in a broken voice. The weight of everything he went through almost burst out of him as the faces of Trager, the crowd of civilians he accidentally exposed himself to as a Male Norma, the police, the NMB soldiers, Major Maltas, Jadis, Dutch Villson and Blackadder all started spinning in his head. It got to the point he had to bite his tongue to keep from breaking down in Jasmine's arms.

"Well this is a familiar sight." Maggie noted as she checked the fading marks and bruises across Cal's face. "At this point I might as well reserve a bed for you every time you arrive here."

"I've…missed you Maggie." Cal sighed as he plopped into one of the chairs. Before they could say anything else, both women froze in shock at the other person Jill had brought.

"My god, Jacob…is that really you?" Jasmine whispered as she slowly walked up to him and stroked her hand softly over the burned half of his face as though checking if he was real.

"Hello Jasmine." He smiled at her. "Nice to see you too Maggie."

"You've changed." Maggie commented.

"Well that's what age does to you." Jacob chortled. A soft whimper caught Cal's attention and he looked down at the furry head on his lap.

"Hello Vulcan." Cal smiled. He stroked the dog's head as Vulcan blinked up at him sadly, as if feeling the hell Cal had experienced.

"Why are you here?" Jasmine asked Jacob, both surprised and overwhelmed to see him in person. "It's dangerous for you to be on this island."

"I wouldn't be here if it weren't important." Jacob said solemnly. "And I need to make an important proposition for the Commander."

"What's this all about Jill?" Maggie questioned.

"Make this quick Jacob." Jill said sharply. "The Inspector will begin to suspect if you stay too long."

"Jacob, please." Jasmine begged. "Please tell us what happened to Cal."

"I think it's best if you all heard it from Cal. Afterwards, it's about time the Knight of Villkiss knew the whole truth you've kept from him about this world."

"Jacob, I don't think Cal's ready to hear that." Jasmine spoke up. "He's been through too much already. Can this not wait until Libertus begins?"

"No it can't. Besides Cal has shown bravery beyond anything I or anyone else could have expected of him." He smiled proudly at Cal. "Though I was reluctant at first, I now know you made the right decision in choosing him as the pilot of Siegfried Jill." Cal felt reenergized a bit by Jacob's encouragement and began to tell them everything. As he spoke visions of everything that had transpired over the past few days flashed before Cal's eyes. He saw Dr Trager lying dead on the floor of his office, the file on his mother and her being part of the Rosenblum royal family. But as he was about to mention the single seed sample used on all the Norma for hundreds of years, he caught Jacob's eye and remembered to keep that to himself. Once or twice, Jasmine acted as though she were about to say something, but Jill raised her prosthetic hand to stop her. Cal was grateful for this because it was easier to keep going.

Cal went on; explaining how he was compromised by a group of civilians, of how he killed a group of police that attacked Hilda and of how the NMB and former Inspector Jadis had found them in the forest. Then he revealed that Dutch Villson had been alive this whole time and was the one who killed Gramps and after their fight in the forest he had been saved by the people of Enderant Harbor.

Finally, he reached the part of when Siegfried had teleported to his position and how he managed to break through the Valkyrie system again to defeat Dutch's machine. But when he reached the part of Subject Beta appearing before him, Cal found it was the hardest as his throat began to clench. It was difficult to put into words, but he revealed the scaly black baby with its blue slit pupil eyes that belonged to his clone he found in the second file, and that the clone was now fully grown. He explained to them of the times he was surrounded by the icy mist and how the dark figure of Blackadder stalked him in his own head, mistaking them for dreams or hallucinations. Then he got to the part where at times when he lost control of his anger, allowing the parasite to take over, to possess him with what unknown power that Cal had seen with his own two eyes when they fought.

"This is all Embryo's doing." Jill growled. "Only he can give a human that kind of power."

"Trager did tell me through his dying breath that he only did as commanded by this…Embryo." Cal recalled. "And before I killed him, I watched him talking to someone on a Mana screen whom he called Master. Do you think maybe that was him?"

"No doubt about it." Jill nodded. "Did you see what he looked like?"

"Not his face, but he was wearing a green suit and he had long blonde hair." Cal thought for a moment. "And yet…his voice sounded familiar somehow." For a second Cal thought he saw pure contempt and hatred in Jill's eyes as though she knew what he was talking about. But he must have imagined it because it was gone in a flash when she noticed him looking at her.

As Cal finished, the office was filled with a suffocating silence. It was hard to comprehend that the very man that helped Embryo almost kill them 10 years ago was in fact Gaz's supposedly deceased best friend. Let alone discovering that Cal was part of the Rosemblum Royal family, and that Trager and this Embryo he worked for had created a clone of Cal which they had given abilities the likes of which no mortal was capable of.

"Find someone else." Jasmine said faintly to both Jill and Jacob. "I can't bear to watch him go through this much suffering any longer. He's been through too much and now you want us to tell him the horrible truth of this world and of Embryo?! Give Siegfried to someone else! Tusk or any of the Ancient Folk!"

"What, Jasmine no!" Cal protested. "I can't just give it up now. Not after I managed to unlock both of Siegfried's abilities."

"Seems he's made up his mind." Jill said plainly. "I know you may have disagreed with me sending him on this mission, but you can't deny I made the right choice. Without Cal we would not have discovered his royal blood, Dutch or this Subject Beta. Now we can't be taken by surprise."

"That's not the point!" Jasmine shouted. "Gaz wouldn't have wanted this for him! How much more does he have to suffer! I will not allow it anymore Jill! I will not allow it!"

"Jasmine please?" Maggie urged, trying to calm her down. "Regardless of what Gaz wanted, Cal is a Norma like the rest of us."

"I know it's not ideal." Jacob admitted. "But Cal has done great things with Siegfried, more than Istvan, and maybe it should be his decision."

"I can't just walk away from this." Cal decided. "I made a promise you all that day I was assigned Siegfried that one day I will fight to see all Norma free from this life and I'm sticking to it. If I just run away now then it'll all be for nothing.

"That settles the matter then." said Jacob and Jasmine knew she was defeated on the subject. "But now we have to fully prepare him for his role as Knight of Villkiss. I assume you've already trained him for what's to come?"

"Not everything. I planned to gradually elevate him to command a squadron of his own." Jill told Jacob. "We need a lead Captain on the battlefield when Libertus begins, just like Istvan was with the other squads of Arzenal and Xeon. We had months to prepare originally but Ange and Hilda's actions have accelerated our plans. Because of those two idiots, Libertus will have to be launched within at least 2 weeks at least." She then turned to Cal. "Starting tomorrow, you'll be training in simulations with all three squads as a lead captain. And to make sure you get used to their fighting styles, you'll be joining the squads during Sorties." Cal felt a lump form in his throat, but he swallowed it down.

"I'm ready." He agreed. "But this time, I'll make sure nobody else will die. Not on my watch." Jasmine sighed hopelessly knowing it was pointless to argue as Jill smirked in triumph to herself. Jacob saw the worry in Jasmine and put a hand on her shoulder.

"I will say it again Jasmine." Jacob announced. "Cal has shown bravery beyond anything I, my people or any of you could have expected of him. Not just these past few days but since he has arrived on this island. I wouldn't ask it of him if I didn't believe he could handle it." Cal gazed around at the three women. Both Maggie and Jasmine seemed to be put at ease by Jacob's words. But when he looked to Jill's face, she looked prideful. Like Cal was a well-trained dog which did not make him feel comfortable. "But he's shouldered a burden that was never meant to be his and proven himself strong enough to carry it. And for that he deserves the truth. Cal needs to know what we are truly up against."

"What more have you three kept away from me?" Cal questioned. "What more about the Ancient Folk do I need to know? And what do you mean the truth about this world? And who is Embryo?"

"I only gave you the details needed to motivate you back into action after you lost Naomi." Jill told him. "I was planning to tell you the whole truth once you were ready. But I suppose it's time for you to know." Jasmine looked extremely uncomfortable as though Jill was preparing him for slaughter.

"I'm ready." said Cal preparing for the worst.

Across the corridors from Commander Jill's office, Squad Commander Trudy kept her girls in sharp order. She and her staff had always been loyal to Commander Jill. But ever since Cal had vanished a few days ago, it seemed all her hard work had finally paid off with Jill giving her and her squad an important secret promotion as the Commander's personal guards.

"What do you think they're talking about in there?" Her squad whispered to each other.

"Where has Cal been these past few days?"

"Who was that man and those other people on the beach?"

"Friends of the Commander's by the looks of things. But the last thing we need is another man here." Terra scowled, running her finger across the scar under her lip where Cal had punched her when they arrested his squad mate Miranda. Terra and Trudy were one of the very few on Arzenal that disliked Cal. They could never understand what the Commander saw in him.

"That doesn't matter." Trudy addressed her squad. "But the Commander has gained our trust and loyalty. So, let's not screw this up. I don't want any of you repeating what we saw to anyone. Understand?" Her squad saluted in response as they waited for over half an hour, their ears pricked for any sound of conversation coming from the office. No one, not even the Inspector came their way, until finally the office door opened. The girls craned their necks to get another look at the mysterious man but it was only Cal with Jasmine and Maggie that appeared.

"Good job girls." Jasmine praised the security staff. Maggie had her hand on Cal's shoulder as they led him away. "Jill wants you to remain here until she gives further orders."

"I never get those two." Terra said nastily once they were out of ear shot. "They always give him special treatment."

"Don't worry about that. He and Salia are nothing but well-trained dogs. It's only a matter of time until the commander finds them a different kennel." Trudy smirked. And the Commander would know those who were truly loyal to her soon.

Unease crept at Jasmine as she glanced back at the security squad. Just what the hell was Jill playing at? Having this many security staff in close contact with someone outside of Arzenal was downright reckless. She just hoped whatever Jacob was proposing to her was practical. However, Jasmine pushed these intrusive thoughts away with her concern mostly on Cal.

"I know it's a lot to take in but please let us know if you need to talk?" Jasmine said once they reached the turn to his quarters. Cal had not spoken a word or asked any questions when Jill and the rest of them told him everything about the Ancient Folk, the world's true history, and Embryo. She herself remembered how overwhelming it all was back when the Ancient Folk first got in contact with Arzenal 20 years ago and gave her the whole story about the lie this world was.

"I'm not gonna lie. I feel physically sick." Cal's voice croaked in exhaustion. "But nothing has changed. Siegfried and unlocking its full potential is still my number one priority." Jasmine knew he was putting on a brave poker face, but his voice said it all how much the truth had hit him.

"That can wait until tomorrow. Right now, you need a good night's sleep." Maggie advised as she went off to get some sleeping pills for him. Jasmine waited outside Cal's bedroom while he changed into some sleepwear before handing Jasmine the jumpsuit and utility belts he had worn. She'd dispose of them in the incinerator or give them to Jacob. They needed to wipe any evidence of where Cal had gone.

Just then the first squad came bursting down the corridor, demanding where Cal was and what had happened to him. Cal peered out from his door to see what all the noise was.

"Cal! Oh Cal!" Ersha cried out as she hurried towards him until Jasmine moved between them.

"Ersha," she said holding up a hand, "please listen to me carefully. Cal has been through a terrible ordeal. He's just had to relive it for us. What he needs now is rest. If he would like you all to stay with him," she added looking around at Salia, Vivian, Miranda, Rosalie, and Chris, "you can. But I do not want you questioning him until he has had some rest." Salia nodded, she was very white and rounded on Vivian as though she was being nosey.

"Do you hear, he needs quiet!" She hissed.

"I didn't even say anything!" Vivian protested.

"I trust you'll keep an eye on him." Jasmine said quietly to Salia who saluted in response. But before they could discuss the matter further, one of the security staff appeared in a hurry.

"Miss Jasmine, the Commander wants you back at her office, the Inspector and Corporal are on their way there." Knowing Cal was in good hands Jasmine made her way back to Jill's office in quick succession as the two leaders waited for her outside the office door.

"The Inspector just found out Cal has returned; I want you to escort Jacob to the lower cave exit." Jill ordered. "I'll deal with the Inspector and Corporal, but take the west tunnel. They'll be coming from the east, and be careful you're not spotted. Once you're done, bring the maid up to my office. I have a little job for her." With little time to spare, Jasmine did as she was told yet as they walked further away, she could sense that Jacob was obviously frustrated about something.

"I assume your talk with Jill didn't go well."

"That's an understatement." He grimaced.

"So, what exactly did you two discuss?"

"I tried to persuade her with Libertus just a little more than two weeks away that a few of my best soldiers should be stationed here inside Aurora to help stock up the ship before everything is ready to launch."

"And what did Jill say?" Jasmine asked, though she could already guess the answer.

"She refuses to have any humans inside the base and only trusts us Ancient Folk to do the job. I argued the fact she's the Commander of the whole operation and would need to trust the humans in our army. After all, even with us and the Norma, the humans make up half of our entire force. But she flat out refused to hear my point."

"I don't understand why she'd do that. Gaz was no different. He showed us that not all humans are the same. I thought it impossible during Xeon that there were others like him, but I was wrong." As they kept walking through the smaller unused corridors at the top level, they came to the long single staircase that led down to the secret cave exit. But before they descended, Maggie had appeared right behind them, a bag of medical supplies in her hand.

"Before you go, take these." Maggie handed the bag to Jacob. "Your place and people need these more than Arzenal. Don't worry I've got a secret stash in case for emergencies." Maggie blushed a bit and Jasmine knew she kept more than medical stuff in her secret stash. "One more thing." Maggie suddenly blurted out before Jacob and Jasmine could leave. "Sorry to be a bother but I must ask…is Randell still..." She could not get the words out and Jasmine felt a stab of pity for the younger woman. It had been 10 years and she had never once mentioned Randall once.

"I'm sorry Maggie, he fell on that very day with many of our soldiers." Jacob told her in a low voice and Jasmine saw the brief sorrow that flashed across Maggie's face.

"I see." Maggie said flatly. "Thank you Jacob. I just needed to know." Maggie turned away and headed back to the infirmary as Jasmine guided Jacob down the steps to the lower levels.

"Randall was such a scrawny shy guy, I never expected back then that Maggie of all people would be completely smitten with him." Jasmine reflected sadly. No wonder Maggie hit the booze hard on occasions.

"I guess opposites attract." Jacob smiled sorrowfully. "Randall had finally come out his shell once he met Maggie. It makes me miss the good old days back at Xeon when we were all young and full of life."

"Don't get me started on that." Jasmine chortled. "Listen I never got to thank you for the message you sent us about the Norma at your bases. Though that raven was a handful to control."

"Don't blame me. I hate that damn bird as well, but it does help to send important information without it being tracked or detected by the NMB." said Jacob. "I'm sorry I didn't tell any of you or Cal sooner. But like I already told him a few days ago, we ourselves were still trying to find out as to why they were still continuing with those experiments. And discovering they created a clone of Cal gives us even more questions. I just hope with the new information Cal gave us we might be able to get some real answers as to why they created him and put all those poor Norma through that hell." Jacob's lips thinned as though he wanted to tell Jasmine something important, but it seemed he changed his mind.

"Never mind that." She told him. "The important thing now is that there are no more secrets between our two parties. Knowing Jill, the slightest thing will throw her off course in trusting you. So I'd advise you to be careful."

"You're right." Jacob said a little despondently. Was he keeping something from her and Jill she wondered. As they finally reached the lower tunnel, the stone walls dimly lit as they continued their way to the cave exit, Jacob gazed at Jasmine; his face wracked with guilt. "I'm sorry I never contacted any of you after Xeon fell. I didn't want the NMB to rain down on you if they discovered we were still alive. I just know if I had maybe Gaz would still be here."

"It wasn't your fault. He did what he had to do to keep Cal safe from Dutch. All we can do now is honor his memory by looking out for the boy." Jacob chuckled to himself.

"I always used to be jealous of Gaz." He confessed. "He was everything I wanted to be. The muscles, the confidence. But I always respected him. Despite his past he always struck me as an honorable man who did right by those around him. He truly was the best of us all. It didn't surprise me when Cal told me how close you two had gotten."

"Gaz was never the romantic type." Jasmine admitted. "But between the failure of Libertus and his own past, I guess we both found what little solace there was with each other." It ate at her heart knowing those few nights she spent with Gaz, she could never fill the place of his dead wife and child. "I'm sure I wasn't the only one to find someone though. There must have been plenty of women for you over the years."

"There were a few." admitted Jacob with a grin. "But they all had the same problem."

"What's that."

"They weren't you." They continued to walk through the caverns in silence though Jasmine felt her mind torn in two. The Jacob before her was not the same young reckless man she once knew and was now a rational hardened leader. But it was clear he cared for Cal. Just his whole demeanor now was very striking. It reminded her of Gaz.

Leaning up against the trailer, Scarlett twiddled her thumbs waiting for the Commander or that Jacob guy to return. It had been over half an hour and still she waited for word on Cal as worry ate at her mind. Tusk and Mei were currently rearranging a few things inside the skyhook's hull while Momoka was passing them tools which only left Lucia to talk to. But she was less than accommodating when Scarlett began asking about what had happened to Cal.

"I've told you it's classified." Lucia said impatiently to Scarlett for the fourth time. "Why are you so worried about him? Are you one of his girlfriends?"

"No." Scarlett glowered. "If you must know he's my training partner. I knew something was off when he and Siegfried never returned to refuel. And I had a feeling the Commander had something to do with his disappearance. But she hasn't disclosed much on the matter other than accepting me into Libertus."

"So how come you weren't involved with Libertus before?"

"At the time me and a few other young pilots signed up, but Jasmine, who was the commander at the time, decided to assign us as assistant staff; stocking weapons, ammunition and Para-mail inside of the Aurora." Scarlett explained. "Though I never knew where those supplies went. Even my Vice-Captain Vanessa who was also a part of Libertus wouldn't tell me."

"It's a good thing Jasmine didn't get you or the younger pilots involved then. All of the Norma who were with us died when the humans attacked." Lucia admitted. The two remained and turned their attention to Mei and Tusk's conversation.

"I can't believe the ice bullet launcher is complete. I thought I'd never see the day it would be used on the field." Tusk awed.

"Yep, Cal was very handy with a crossbow, so I thought I'd finish my sister's invention and put it to good use." Mei boasted.

"She was an amazing armorist, your sister. She'd be proud. She always made sure Villkiss, Siegfried and my mother's arquebus was in top condition."

"Ah Vanessa's old Pink Arquebus, now that was a true unit. She's practically a legend here. The girls who once knew her still call her the queen of speed." Mei said dreamily. "I wonder what became of her unit."

"Don't worry," Tusk assured her. "It's somewhere safe."

'Wait Vanessa was that guy's mother!' Scarlett realized with astonishment.

"Good." said Mei. "A great unit like hers shouldn't be laid to rust. And maybe one day, it'll fly beside Villkiss and Siegfried again."

"Yeah maybe." Tusk said a little sadly. "But hey, at least we've got a worthy pilot for Siegfried and the ice bullet launcher."

"The thing wouldn't be such a pain in the butt if Cal would stop overcharging the damn thing." Mei shrugged. "But at least he keeps me and my team busy."

"It's nice to know Cal has people here watching his back. Though I know why from the few hours that I've known him." Lucia grinned. "He's kind, brave and loyal to those he cares for. Not to mention he's a rather handsome fellow. I heard some of the Norma here try to jump him every day."

"I've lost count how many times I've had to chase the girls away from him." Scarlett commented as she scanned Lucia up and down. "But what about you?"

"What about me?"

"You must have a few admirers like Cal back at your place." Scarlett stepped closer to Lucia and began to circle her, examining her figure and features. "You have nice hair, you're tall, and you've got an amazing build."

"What's your point?" Lucia backed away slightly until her back hit against the trailer and Scarlett advanced, putting her hands against the trailer above Lucia's shoulders like a wall. Tusk, Momoka and Mei's faces peeked around the corner finding the scenario quite entertaining.

"My point is you're hot, buttercup." Scarlett leaned in closer, and Lucia's face went a slight tinge of pink. "So do you prefer men or women?"

"What!" Lucia blustered. "What are you…"

"I'm just kidding ya." Scarlett teased allowing Lucia free. "Mostly."

"I see you two are getting along well." Scarlett and Lucia turned around as Jacob and Jasmine emerged from the exit.

"Our time here is done let's get going." Jacob told Lucia and Tusk.

"If you two want to check on Cal he's in his quarters." Jasmine explained. "Salia and the rest should be there or giving Ange and Hilda their punishment debrief." Tusk mounted back on his skyhook but just before Lucia could enter the trailer Scarlett leaned in closer to her ear. "See you around." She whispered before she dashed off to look for Cal.

Throughout the entire time they were talking Jacob couldn't help but feel gratitude towards the woman before him. Jasmine was always a good-hearted, strong, warm woman. And even after all these years later nothing had changed that. Even in his old age, he still felt that spark he had once felt towards her when they had first met. But their short time catching up came to an end as they finally reached the cave where the trailer awaited him. Jasmine dismissed Mei and Scarlett as Lucia entered the trailer and Tusk waited for Jacob, but before he left, he had another matter to discuss with Jasmine. He turned back from the trailer to face her again.

"There's something I must ask of you." He paused slightly. "I wouldn't ask you of this if it were anyone else, but I'm hoping you'll keep in contact with me without the Commander's knowledge." Jasmine looked taken aback but was willing to listen. "I don't know what Jill is planning behind my…our backs, but I worry she might be using Cal." Jasmine looked disturbed, but he read through her eyes that she related on that matter. "I know you think she'll seize the opportunity before Libertus begins."

"I don't want to believe it, but I fear she'll use Dutch, her hatred towards humans and Cal's willingness to protect others to poison his mind." Jasmine added. "It's not the path Gaz would want him to go down. But what do you suppose we do about it?" Jacob whistled as Dexter the raven cawed and landed on his arm.

"Keep Dexter hidden from the other Norma. If you find out Jill is using Cal or planning something that could be detrimental to my people and allies, then use him to tell me." The raven then flew off again towards his little den he had taken residence high up in the cavern walls.

"This is a lot to ask of me." she said in a low voice.

"I know, but you're the only one here I trust."

"Okay." She agreed. "But I'm doing this for Cal. I don't believe Alektra is that far gone yet so have a little faith in her. She's just stressed with Libertus so close."

"I want to Jasmine, but she's not the same happy, positive young woman I once knew. But I'll try." And with that Jacob entered the trailer and Jasmine caught one last glimpse at him as the rear door shut before Tusk gave a final wave at her before the skyhook took off out of the cave and back out into the sky.

"They are sure nice people." Momoka comment. "It's sad to see them go."

"Yes, they are." Jasmine agreed. "Now come with me. The Commander wishes to see you."

"What do you mean Cal had returned almost an hour ago with the two escapees?!" Inspector Bronson shrieked. "Why didn't you or the command staff inform me of this? Do you realize that I must send an immediate report to Committee!? I'm already on thin ice since Lady Misty was kidnapped under my very nose!"

"Calm down Inspector." Jill said as she dragged out her cigarette. "I have everything under control. The two escapes are now back, thanks to Cal's hard work. That's the important thing." The Inspector frowned. Ever since Jill had told her that she had sent Cal to search for Ange and Hilda she was beyond infuriated.

"I trust their punishment will be just." Corporal Lawrence added. "Because if I find your hand is too soft for the task, I'll do it myself." It was clear the massive bodyguard was itching to punish the girls for almost killing him by kicking him off the plane ramp.

"You don't have to worry about that Corporal." said Jill calmly. "But to compliment your troubles I'll have the maid Momoka assigned to both your services and confide her to the Villa, away from Ange. Now if there aren't any further issues, I have some important paperwork to fill out." Inspector Bronson groaned in frustration and stormed out of Jill's office with Corporal Lawrence behind her.

Jill stubbed out her cigarette, glad one headache was out of the way. But she had other matters to attend to. She wasn't going to take any chances with Libertus so close. There was a light knock at her door a few minutes later as she lit a fresh cigarette and Momoka's face cautiously peeked through.

"I'll leave you two alone." Jasmine said behind Momoka and shut the door.

"Come take a seat." Jill offered as Momoka nervously sat down. It seemed she was trying to keep a brave composure in front of Jill. "It seems you've been on quite the adventure from the looks of things." She noted Momoka's dirty and tattered uniform. "I do find your loyalty to Ange rather honorable, despite how thick headed she can be."

"Am I in trouble?" Momoka gulped. "If so, I'll take my punishment like lady Angelise is."

"Lucky for you, I don't have the authority to punish a human." Jill admitted. "Rather, I have a special job for you." Momoka raised her head in surprise. "As you probably know some of us and Cal are associated with those your kind call terrorists. You know the harm and trouble that would come your dear Princess, Cal and the rest of us if the Inspector and Corporal found out about whom we're associated with?"

"I promise I won't say a word." Momoka nodded.

"Good, then listen up, if you want to help Ange that is." Jill proposed and Momoka looked very nervous. "Starting today you'll be transferred to the Villa where you'll be serving the Inspector and Corporal."

"But what about Lady…"

"Not your concern!" Jill interrupted her sharply. "She is being punished for her escape. What I'm asking of you is very vital for our safety as well as Cal and Ange's."

"What do you want me to do?" Momoka asked.

"I want you to do your usual duties for them, but you'll be acting as my eyes and ears." said Jill with a cold grin. "I want you to spy on them for the next 2 to 3 weeks. Everything they say, do or contact outside of Arzenal, I want you to report back to me in full detail."

"Okay." Momoka said quietly as Jill lit another cigarette, she knew using Ange's safety would persuade the maid.

"However." She warned as she placed her revolver on the desk. "If you get caught or compromise us, I will have no choice but to get rid of you. I'm sure your princess won't be too happy that her maid suddenly disappeared." Momoka quivered with fear but nodded.

"I understand." She whimpered.

"That's a good little maid." Jill smirked. "I knew you'd be useful to us eventually."

Holding her knees up to her chest and hugging her legs tightly for warmth, Hilda took in shivering breaths, her goosepimple covered flesh burning with cold. It had been almost two hours, and no one had come to give them any clothes or inform them of their punishment. Ange sat on the opposite bed against the wall. And it seemed Ange was also determined not to show weakness in front of Hilda regarding how cold she was.

"Stand up." a familiar voice ordered. Standing on the other sides of the bars; Salia, Ersha, Rosalie, Chris, Vivian and Miranda stood with expressions ranging from contempt to disappointment. Only Vivian seemed happy to see them.

"Welcome back you two!" Vivian grinned.

"Vivian, be quite!" Salia scolded. She looked angrier than Hilda had ever seen her to the point she almost felt intimidated. Ersha and Miranda squeezed Ange and Hilda's uniforms and two blankets through the bars which they took without hesitation. "Here's your punishment notice." Salia announced as though she didn't even want to speak to them.

"Where's Momoka and Cal?" Ange demanded as she and Hilda wrapped the rough scratchy blankets around themselves.

"Ange and Hilda," Salia continued, ignoring the question, "for deserting your squad you will spend one week in confinement. Additionally, all your assets and possessions have been confiscated, including your respective Para-mails AND the servant you purchased, the latter of which has been reassigned to the Inspector and Corporal."

"What a shame." Hilda said sarcastically. "Guess I'll just have to buy it all back with the money we got from the bighorn." Rosalie and Chris seethed with rage while Miranda couldn't bear to look at her mentor.

"Do you think this is a joke?" Rosalie yelled. "Because you both escaped and Cal having to go after you, we've all been benched and stuck on standby!"

"Why didn't you talk to us Hilda?" Miranda said deeply upset, her eyes bloodshot like she had not slept in days. "Why did you abandon us?"

"Oh, come on, isn't it obvious!?" Chris' sneered. "She never once saw us as friends." Rosalie looked at Chris in shock though Hilda just smirked.

"Took you long enough." Rosalie's eyes widened as Chris slammed her fist on the bars.

"How dare you…you…BITCH!" Chris voice shook. "You got some nerve. You're lucky I can't come in there and smash your head open, especially after what you put Cal through." Ange and Hilda's eyes widened.

"Wait Cal's here?!" Hilda gasped brightly. "Why isn't he here, what's…"

"Why do you even care? Especially after everything you two put him through because of your escape?" Chris growled. Hilda's breath caught in her throat. "That's right. He told us everything about his past, and the hell he endured just to save your miserable life. It's all your fault that he was almost killed by that psycho hunting him."

"Yeah, I was there!" Hilda shouted at them. "And maybe you both didn't listen to him that we both saved each other in that forest!"

"It would have been better if Cal had left you to die." Chris growled.

"That's enough you two." Ersha pleaded as she looked at both Ange and Hilda. "I just don't understand," they both saw the Pinkett's eyes were barely holding back tears. "Why did you two run away? All of us...we've been in here our entire lives. We don't know the outside world or any of our families. There's nothing for us out there. Even Cal had no reason to leave, and he's barely been here a year. He warned you Hilda of the danger humans pose after he told us about his Gramp's sacrifice when we lost Coco. And you Ange, your report revealed what your brother did to you on your baptism, so you knew what he was capable of. You both knew what the humans were capable of. So why?" Ersha's eyes were so full of sorrow and hurt that Ange and Hilda felt it themselves.

"Because Ange is not like us." Salia said bitterly then gave Hilda a piecing look. "And Hilda is nothing but cruel and self-centered and cares only about herself."

"Running away and leaving us is one thing. But you put Cal in mortal danger. We can never forgive you two for that." Ersha said, a tear now sliding down her cheek.

"Well say something!" Miranda snapped; she had gone very white. "Abandoning us and almost getting Cal killed!? Is that all we are to you? Just means to an end?!" Hilda smirked.

"Finally, the new recruit gets it." She gazed at Rosalie and Chris. "You two and Zola were just means to an end so my life here was a little less miserable. And you newbie." She addressed Miranda. "I was just training you to be a shield just like I used these two as one." Rosalie's eyes widened as Chris' mouth dropped open when Miranda suddenly pushed them aside and spat in Hilda's face.

"It should have been you two that died that night, not Zola and Coco." Miranda growled through bared teeth, her narrow scornful eyes swimming in hot tears before she ran off with Vivian going after her.

"Miranda wait don't cry. I'm sure Hilda didn't mean any of it." They heard Vivian's voice fade off through the hallways. Rosalie and Chris followed them but not before Chris looked back at Hilda with disdain.

"Oh, I'm going to purchase all of Captain Zola's stuff. You're not allowed anywhere near it or us anymore." Chris stormed away and Rosalie gave one last sorrowful look at Hilda before she followed after.

"I hope you two realize the gravity of what you've done." said Salia as she walked off but halted and spoke in a quite soft voice. "I thought…I could trust you Ange. I thought that maybe Jill was right. I thought you might have been..." Her face screwed up in anger. "But I was a fool and so was the Commander." she said bitterly. "You never deserved Villkiss. Or anything else." Ersha gave the two of them one last remorseful look before she left as well.

"Are you okay?" Ange asked Hilda once she was sure they could not be heard.

"Yeah sure, I've had worse." Hilda said as she wiped the spit off her face. "It's better this way. Keeping the mask on was becoming exhausting."

"You could have said you were sorry," Ange commented. Hilda tched and pulled her hair back into its usual twin tails before beginning to change back into her uniform.

"I don't want to hear it." she grumbled as she secured her skirt around her hips. "Besides, I didn't come back for them or you. I came back for Cal. If not for him I'd be dead already remember."

"Is that the only reason?" Ange smirked as she began to dress and Hilda blushed, thinking about her and Cal's kiss.

"Hey, that's none of your…and what about you and Tusk!?"

"Shut up!" Ange jabbed back as she too blushed in embarrassment.

Inside Cal's living quarters the first squad had opted to stay with him for the night. The sky outside of his window had now turned blood orange and all of them were dressed in their sleepwear. Rosalie, Chris, Vivian and Miranda had brought sleeping bags as there wasn't enough room for them in Cal's large double bed. Cal had practically blacked out after taking the pills Maggie brought him but not before he had confided in them all he had gone through the past few days, along with the whole truth about his birth and his Gramp's past before they went to see Ange and Hilda.

Salia felt a mixture of relief and anxiety that Cal had told the whole squad the truth, but that meant she would have to try and keep them quiet and tight-lipped until Libertus launched. The last thing Jill needed was the Inspector and her bodyguard to discover where Cal had been. Ersha meanwhile, would keep lowering the blankets as if counting more bruises and cuts that were scattered all over his body and face. The whole squad were appalled by the state of him.

"Give it a rest Ersha, you'll wake him!" Salia hissed in annoyance.

"I can't believe this." Ersha said almost on the verge of tears as she brushed Cal's hair softly. "He should have never left here in the first place."

"He wouldn't have had to if it weren't for those two traitors." Chris said bitterly. "It's all their fault."

"They betrayed us all." Miranda said with tears in her eyes. "They left us all thinking their lives would be much better without us." Salia knew Hilda abandoning them had hit the young recruit the hardest as the redhead had become like an older sister to Miranda.

"Who gives a crap about those two losers?" Rosalie spoke up. "I'm more concerned the fact some psycho is hunting down Cal. Right now, he's an easy target for this Dutch guy and that bitch Jadis. After all, it's not like he has anywhere else he can hide."

"But if we're with him," said Vivian spiritedly, "Dutch wouldn't dare…"

"Oh, Vivian, don't talk rubbish." Snapped Salia. "Cal told us that Dutch has already murdered a whole bunch of Norma, humans, and his Gramps. Do you really think he's going to worry about attacking Cal just because we're there?"

"That doesn't matter, because if one of them even dares try and take him, they'll have to go through me first." Scarlett spoke in a dangerous voice. She stood in the corner and had also offered to stay for the night, dressed in her tight black tank top and grey waist track shorts. Just the very mention of Jadis' name made the veins in her muscles throb. "Salia's right, but no matter what happens, we'll stand together."

"We all stand by him. But revenge, is that really what's healthy for Cal?" Ersha worried.

"You're damn right it is." Everyone turned with a start as Cal was sitting up from his bed, now woken up and scowling as if he had tasted something disgusting. "Dutch, Jadis and all the rest of them are gonna pay for what they've done."

"Cal, don't talk like that." Ersha worried. "They're not worth it."

"No Ersha, he took away the only family I ever knew. I won't let him take anyone else." To their surprise, Cal gave his familiar cocky smirk, though a bit darker and slightly jaded. "I beat him once and I'll beat him again. I'm not afraid of him anymore. And the next time he shows his face to me, it'll be for the last time."

"And I hope he brings Jadis with him." Scarlett spoke up. "I've got my own grudge against her. So let me worry about that skank. You just deal with Dutch."

"Yeah!" Vivian cheered. "Anyone messes with you they mess with all of Arzenal."

"No matter who he brings with him just leave them to us." Chris promised. "We'll keep them off your back so you can take out Dutch once and for all." Cal's grin changed to a relieved smile and he laid back down on the bed.

"Thanks guys." He sighed as he closed his eyes. "It's so good to be home." Soon Cal was fast asleep and one by one the others nodded off as well. Salia however stayed awake a bit longer to stare down at Cal who slept between her and Ersha. As the soft snores of her squad mates and Scarlett filled the room, she couldn't help but recall the promise she had made Cal when they first slept together in their need for comfort after the loss of Naomi. 'I swear to you Cal,' Salia vowed as she gently kissed him on the forehead, 'You won't have to share this burden alone. Once I get control of Villkiss, we'll take on whatever come our way when Libertus begins, together.'

THE END OF ARC 3

EPILOGUE

"ARRRGGHHH!"

"You disappoint me Villson." Embryo said as he paced around Dutch, staring down at his right-hand enforcer with annoyance.

"GAAHHHHHH!" Dutch screamed once more in sheer agony.

"There's no excuses for your incompetence this time. It was foolish of you to cover Subject Alpha's tracks and search for him without informing me of his departure from Arzenal. You also tried to cover up your mistake of allowing him to escape you a second time. As well as ordering Lieutenant Jadis to leave her post at the Galia labor camp. And what did that result in? A mass breakout of Norma prisoners." Embryo tapped his index finger to Dutch's forehead releasing him from the pain.

"Master…I…swear…" Dutch moaned his body shaking violently from Embryo's torture as though he was having a fit. "…I didn't tell you…because…I thought I could atone for my…mistake in letting him escape last time." The torture had lasted the whole day and yet Dutch with what little strength he retained hadn't squealed once that he planned to use Subject Alpha in discovering why the half breeds between Humans and Norma existed. He had to keep telling Embryo what he wanted to hear. "Master please." Dutch begged. "Please forgive me…there's no excuse for my actions…I should have not let my emotions get the best of me."

"I told you to bring Subject Alpha in alive and yet you tried to kill him with your machine despite my direct orders." said Embryo, his tone calm yet full of suppressed anger. "I gave you every tool and enhanced your Mana limitations to go beyond the boundaries of power any human possessed and yet you were defeated by that DISGUSTING copy of my work." Embryo tapped his finger to Dutch's forehead once again and in that split second Dutch felt as if his head was about to split in two as a jolt of electricity tore through his body. His body spasmed and the pain reached such a pitch he wretched on the office carpet. And then it stopped. Dutch rolled over and scrambled to his feet, shaking uncontrollably.

"I reviewed the Misurugi palace footage and because of your actions Subject Alpha's existence was almost compromised to the entire world. Twice now it seems." Dutch looked up to his Master in horror. "Yes, I know you and your team eliminated an entire group of civilians at your base."

"I only…did what I had too…in order to keep Subject Alpha's…existence a secret from the entire world…master…" Dutch heaved.

"Perhaps, but you tried to hide your mistakes. Taking Jadis and her team from the Galia labor camp and covering up the breakout and Trager's death…"

"No, Master I swear! I had no idea of his death. I would never cover up that!" Dutch begged. "But I theorize it was the terrorists that murdered him. They were most likely responsible for the breakout of the Galia labor camp as well."

"How did you come to that conclusion?" Embryo asked and Dutch knew he'd better answer carefully.

"Well I find it rather odd none of Trager's security staff weren't around the property during the time of his death. Unless they were detained or otherwise working with the terrorists. But his death might not be in vain." Dutch straightened himself up. "I put a tracker on one of their vehicle cargos, if I can reactivate the signal, it will lead straight to another one of their hidden bases." Embryo looked to be considering for a moment before he gave his answer.

"Very well Mr Villson but it's clear that you let your emotions and desire for revenge against your former friend and Subject Alpha get the best of you. Therefore, I'll be taking the Ragnarök away. And, because you've failed me twice now, Blackadder will take over the task in recovering Subject Alpha." Dutch almost forbid it but held his tongue. Suddenly, he felt his neck begin to tighten as though an invisible hand was choking him. Embryo held out his hand and Dutch was levitated slowly off his feet and dragged towards Embryo. "And be forewarned," he said in a low and dangerous voice that almost made Dutch's bladder release, "if you don't find the remaining terrorist bases and try to intervene or compromise in retrieving Subject Alpha, you'll be dismissed from my service for good." Embryo released his grasp as Dutch got to his feet.

"I promise Master. I won't let you down again." Just before he reached the door, his master spoke once again.

"Let it be known Villson. If it weren't for your brother Donnie, then I would not be giving you this final chance. Is that understood?"

"Yes, Master."

Embryo watched as Dutch Villson fled his office as if his life depended on it. The man was very fortunate that Embryo still had other uses for him. 'If Villson's theory is correct, and considering Blackadder's discovery of the research that was conducted at the terrorist base, then those Ancient Apes must be trying to discover the truth behind Subject Alpha's creation.' Embryo supposed. There was a slight whistle in the air as the curtains across the glass door that led to the balcony shifted a little with a gust of light wind. "How long were you listening?" From out of the shadows, Blackadder stepped quietly into the office.

"Enough." Blackadder responded. "Are you going to punish me for allowing Subject Alpha to escape?" Embryo's eyes narrowed at his creation with coldness. "I will admit it's my own fault for underestimating that 'DISGUSTING' machine."

"Get to the point." Embryo said impatiently. "What did the unit do exactly to evade your capture?"

"Like I told you. Its color changed to race yellow and was capable of light speed which Subject Alpha used to get away. There was no way I was able to keep up with his speed."

"Did you fulfill my orders at least?"

"Yes, I made sure to silence the investigators as I gathered all of Trager's research and files from within his house and transfer it to the Dawn Pillar." Blackadder answered which was a huge relief to Embryo. "Though it is not all good news as I fear Mr. Villson's theory is correct."

"How can you be so sure?" Embryo wondered. Blackadder opened a Mana window and displayed several Mana screens displaying security footage of different sections of Trager's manor. Suddenly, the screens turned to grey static.

"It appears the all the cameras and footage were hacked and offline for over 48 hours, which would fit in with the timeline of the doctor's death. And the reason I believe Mr Villson is telling the truth is because the two most important research files have gone missing." Embryo's pulse thundered with anger. If those primitives discovered Blackadder was Subject Beta as well as Embryo's weakness and the importance of the royal bloodlines, then his future plans would become jeopardized.

"This is a big problem." Embryo admitted. "I only hope Mr Villson finds and exterminates these vermin once and for all before they become a threat." He could not wait for another. It must be Ange. She was the last piece of the puzzle for the new world to truly bear fruit.

ARTHOR'S NOTES

ARC 3 is finally finished, I want to thank you all for still viewing and reading this story and still to continue to support my art. Also big thanks to Eric Michael Kline for working with me for over 3 years now and editing these chapters, go check out his profile and fanfic, Cross Ange the Knight of Hilda. I'll be working hard to keep working on this story and hope to join you all when ARC 4 begins as the end of September. Until then take care all of you.