Hello!
How are you doing?
I hope you are doing great!
Thank God! I am still alive!
-DISCLAIMER: -I don't own DC (Detective Conan) Aoyama Gosho owns it. Only the OC Characters and some of the story parts are by me.
Chapter 14: DIUK (Seasonal Mail)
Date: Sunday 25/November/20XX
Time: 12:20 (After Noon)
Location: Sherwood Pines Building
After the Mysterious Wolf incident, the FBI agents and local police remained at the campsite, determined to investigate the two locations of the wolf's attacks. With the assistance of the Arabs and British police, they began their search for clues.
The police officers requested Jaber to recount the events of his first encounter with the black wolf to the British police. They were particularly still interested in how he had managed to save Jumana from the wolf's strike. Jaber guided the officers to the spot where he had found the wolf attacking Jumana, providing them with crucial information.
Next, the police asked Jaber to lead them to the scene of the second attack on Layan. They needed to speak to Layan and gather details about her conversations with the black wolf. Thankfully, Layan had recovered significantly after taking a long rest.
"And that's what happened, Mrs. Officer," Layan concluded her explanation.
"Ok, good." Spoke The police officer, jotted down the details in her notes, and commented, "To be honest, That sounds weird."
Layan nodded in agreement, saying with expanding her arms, "Yes, it's like a creature from those fascinating fictional novels, full of mystery and fantasy."
The officer chuckled at Layan's childish explanation and remarked, "It seems like you have a love for reading."
Layan's eyes lit up as she replied, "Oh, I'm obsessed with books, especially the ones that transport you to another world of fantasy and mystery."
The officer smiled and said while writing in her notebook, "It's always nice to find someone who shares the same interests. But let's focus on our topic for now. We can discuss novels later."
She then shifted her attention back to Layan and asked, "And how did you manage to handle the situation?"
Layan's eyes sparkled with determination as she recounted her actions. "When I saw the creature, I used my speed, knowledge, and a spray I had been carrying with me for a long time. I sprayed it on the wolf, distracting it, and took the opportunity to run away until I found my brother. That's all I remember."
"Okay, we're almost done, young one," the officer informed Layan and looked up. "Could you please show me the spray?"
"Sure!" Layan happily answered, "Wait here a moment please; It's in my bag pack." And ran inside the building,
"Careful Lilo." Omar reminded her, "You've already awakened from the seizure."
"Fine."
"Now if you don't mind, um..." The police officer spoke to Omar who walked to her,
"Hamza." Spoke Omar, "You can call me Hamza."
"OK, Hamza, Could you please tell me what you and the others do to stop the black wolf?"
Omar replied, "Sure. We taught that black wolf a lesson it won't forget. I used my taekwondo skills to fight it off. When Jaber attempted to restrain the wolf, it tried to escape. The FBI officer used her gun to prevent it from causing harm, but it managed to slip away. We weren't able to catch it."
As Omar finished speaking, they noticed Layan returning with the spray. The police officer praised and admired her for defending herself.
Omar and Layan provided the police with all the details they could recall about the wolf's appearance and behavior. To their surprise, the descriptions closely matched what Jaber and Jumana had shared a year ago.
Once the twins had finished speaking with the police, they joined the others who were gathered in front of the building. Ali, the driver, James, Jodie, Jaber, and Jumana were discussing the plague-masked creatures.
Informed the Driver "The short creatures turned out to be the Black Wolf's assistants." the driver explained. "Based on their size and clothing, it seems they were tasked with dragging away the victims' corpses after the wolf had killed them."
Curious, Jaber asked, "Where are they now?"
James replied, "They managed to escape."
Jodie chimed in, "Do you know how tall these creatures are?"
Ali looked around and his gaze fell upon Layan. "They are shorter than Layan. They are about 60 cm in height," he estimated, causing Layan to glare at him playfully.
"Hey!" she protested.
"What?" Ali shrugged. "I'm not lying. They are quite short. What did you expect these feisty creatures to look like?"
"Maybe as tall as you," Layan teased, a mischievous grin on her face.
Ali's eyebrows twitched, and he realized the others were trying to stifle their laughter. "You little..." he began before the spark of a playful argument ignited between them.
Interrupting their banter, Omar interjected, "Are we going back to the old incident?"
Omar's sudden change in tone brought everyone's attention back to the task at hand. Ali and Layan exchanged a brief glance before Omar continued, "The sooner we investigate, the more time we'll have to continue our search. We can't afford to waste any more time."
"He is right." James agreed, saying, "Jaber, could you please lead the way?"
Jaber nodded and replied, "Of course. Just follow my lead." The FBI agents, Jaber's cousins, and his sister followed him as he led them toward the location of the wolf's first attack. Despite not having been there since the incident, Jaber navigated the terrain easily, guiding them closer to the truth they sought.
"Here it is, Mr. James." Spoke Jaber, moving the bushes aside, "It's over there." he revealed the sight they had all been searching for. The enormous claw mark on the tree sent a shiver down James and Jodie's spines. It was hard to believe that such a mark could have been made by a wolf.
"Is that the wolf's claws?" James managed to find his question,
"Yes, It is." Jaber confirmed, Still avoiding the incident gazing, " We were lucky to escape with our lives."
Omar stood in silence; his eyes fixed on Layan as she approached the tree. He couldn't help but feel a sense of unease as he watched her. Ali moved to stop her, but Omar raised his arm, signaling him to stay back. There was something about Layan's determination that Omar couldn't ignore, making Ali understand the task, and step back.
"It's a big one." Muttered Layan approaching her small hand over the big claw mark. Jaber was looking at Layan quietly. Realizing a sudden feeling, he moved his gaze instantly aside, bringing Omar's attention.
Layan's small hand reached out to touch the claw mark, but before she could make contact, she noticed a cavity in the trunk of the tree. Something shiny caught her eye, and she bent down to get a closer look. As she examined the cavity, her brow furrowed in confusion.
"Did you notice something, Lilo?" Jodie asked, her concern evident in her voice.
Layan pointed at the cavity. "There is a mark over here." Said Layan " It looks like it's made of... blood?..." Layan trailed off. The revelation sent a chill down everyone's spine. Layan stepped back, trembling with fear. Omar moved to comfort her, his voice calm and steady.
"Sister?"
Her lips trembled as she spoke, " It's black. The aroura around it. It's... q-quite creepy."
"Sister, calm down." Sensing her attitude was not usual, he asked again, "What do you mean by black? What's wrong?" He calmly asked his sister trying to help her.
"T-This is wrong," Layan managed to speak, pointing at the cavity in the tree trunk, "I felt something was not right. There is a... cloth roll with strange writing in blood and white threads...but..."
"It's alright, Lilo. I am listening," he asked, placing his hand on his sister's shoulder, trying to understand her distress,
"I fear that It wasn't a thread." Layan whispered, slowly looking at Omar, "I swear I saw it thinner than a thread..."
"You're right." Admitted Omar, rubbing his eyes, "But if it's not a thread then what it is?"
"...Like ...a hair?..." Layan's compartment made Omar let out a sigh, trying to piece everything together. Omar let go of Layan's shoulder and looked at the cavity. Slowly and carefully, he examined the cavity using a flashlight and walked back to her. His face became pale all of a sudden when his amber eyes met his sister's,
"Did you see i-it...?."She asked with her trembling mouth, He answered "Yes, I saw it." He tried to calm down as he walked back to her.
"Cousin Omar and Layan. "Jaber spoke, "Are you two alright?"
"You two look pale," Jumana observed, not able to hide her worry.
"A Cloth... Bloody writing, and a hair..." Omar's eyes widened as realization dawned on him. He let out a sigh, trying to piece everything together.
"Is It...what I think it is? Sister?" Omar asked, trying to find the right words, meeting his sister's paled gaze,
"I ...f-fear that definitely, i...i-it is, brother." Layan confirmed with a single nod, her voice couldn't hide her fear, "A-All these things mean one thing, and sadly it was aimed at one...n-no...two people actually,..." Her eyes moved to her cousins Jaber and Jumana.
"It's their work," he muttered, his voice filled with a mix of frustration and concern.
Confusion filled the air as everyone tried to make sense of what was happening. Ali grew impatient, demanding answers from the twins. But Omar and Layan knew they had to act quickly to protect their cousins.
"You two need to stay away from here, now," Omar said firmly, standing in front of Jaber. Layan mirrored his actions, positioning herself in front of Jumana.
"Wait ...Wait..." Jaber and Jumana tried to understand, "Why do we need to stay away?"
" This is dangerous magic!" Layan explained, pulling Jumana by her hand far away from the tree, "It was made to hurt you two!"
Layan's words made the silver-haired twins shocked, "H-Hurt us?!"
While Omar pushes Jaber, he searches for the right words. "Someone has targeted both of you, and we must keep you safe by taking you two away from the tree," Omar explained and turned to the others,
"All of you stay away from here. It's a magic!"
Fear and worry filled the eyes of James, Jodie, and the others. They couldn't comprehend the idea of magic being involved. They Involuntarily stepped back, except the driver who had been observing silently, stepped forward.
"What are you doing?" Ali yelled; his voice laced with panic. "Step back! I'll call someone professional to take it out." He pulled out his phone and started pressing.
Ignoring Ali's yells, the driver wore a pair of plastic gloves and approached the cavity. With one knee bent, he carefully retrieved a plastic bag from within. Under his breath, he muttered something inaudible, his hands deftly removing a rolled cloth and strands of hair from the cavity.
"I think there is no need for it. Mr. Ali." the driver said, placing the plastic gloves inside the bag and sealing it tightly.
"Just call someone to nullify the effect of magic." The driver addressed Ali and looked at Jaber and Jumana.
"You two said once that you noticed some part of your hair was gone before you went to the campsite last year, right?" The driver asked Jaber and Jumana,
"Y-Yes." Jaber spoke while being surprised, Making the driver nod knowingly. "That explains why you two have been facing troubles ever since. From your personal issues to your relationships with others, and even your studies and health." The driver's explanation made Jaber step back, stunned while Jumana put her hands at her mouth scared,
"But..."Jumana's sadness and surprise were audible in the soft tone of her voice. "We haven't done anything wrong. We've always helped others."
Jodie, feeling the weight of Jumana's distress, walked over and comforted her. "It's not your fault, Jumana. Neither you nor your brother."
"Then why did they do this to us?"
Ali's frustration turns into anger, understanding the malicious intent behind their suffering. Despite his obvious angry face, He tried to keep his cool.
"The problem lies in their insecurities," Ali began to explain, his hands shoved into his pockets. "When they see others succeeding before them, it triggers feelings of hatred, envy, and repugnance. Instead of working hard to achieve their own goals, they resort to destroying the lives of those who have succeeded and take it easily." He ran his cyber finger at the bridge of his nose irritability,
"What despicable and cowardly people they are."
Ali's words resonated with Jaber, who ran his hand frustratedly through his hair. "Oh God...That explains everything."
The driver interjected; his gaze fixed on the bag containing the evidence of the malicious magic. "Luckily, we found it before it was too late. Let's nullify it with your professional friend, Ali." The driver walked with Ali to take the bag away from the twins.
Omar and Layan saw their cousins in distress, experiencing familiar feelings of shock, pain, sadness, and loneliness. They knew how it felt as they had gone through these emotions themselves. Their own experiences pushed them to help their cousins without hesitation.
"It's ok," Layan reassured Jumana, embracing her tightly. Jumana looked down at her cousin, tears glistening in her eyes. "We will help you. Don't worry." Layan's confident words comforted Jumana.
"Yeah," Omar supported Layan, placing a hand on Jaber's shoulder, standing in solidarity with his cousin. "We will stay here several more days until you two stand on your feet."
Jaber's hair was covering his darkened eyes, saying, "What about your other plans? You still have a plane to catch."
"Nah, it doesn't matter." Omar swung his other hand back and front, " We'll stay here until you both feel better. Our plans can wait." Jaber raised his head looking at Omar,
"We won't leave you like that. We had gone through this once, and we want to help you to get through it, right Layan?" He asked Layan who confidently answered, "Definitely!" with a grin. That drew a small smile on Jaber and Jumana's lips,
Jaber's eyes filled with gratitude as said to Omar. "Thank you, both of you."
As the twins comforted each other, their actions caught the attention of the FBI agents who were investigating the tree while keeping their distance from it. Jodie couldn't help but admire their display of support.
"Ahh, look at them," she said to James in Japanese, her voice filled with admiration. " It's wholesome to see them help each other like that," Jodie said in Japanese with admiration, clapping her hands on each other.
"Yeah," James admitted with a nod, "They are as same as their fathers," Spoke James recalling the past with a smile. Jodie looked at him and questioned,
"Heh? How?"
"Their fathers, Waleed-Kun, and Kareem-Kun were doing the same when they were younger, assisting each other despite the time they work separated." James explained, still looking at them. He smirked as he remembered the past and walked back to investigate the tree.
"Heeh," Jodie's eyes were imagining the sense, "History repeats itself, doesn't it?"
*5 Days Later*
Omar and Layan, the twins, had stayed several days to help their cousins through a tough time. Despite Ali's complaints, they worked tirelessly to support their cousins and get them back on their feet. Now, it was time for the twins to move on to their next mission and leave their cousins to continue their studies.
As they said their goodbyes, Layan struggled with the farewell, although she tried to hide her feelings. Despite this, it was clear from her expression that she didn't want to leave.
In the midst of their goodbyes, Jumana's heartfelt words broke through Layan's contemplation, bringing her back to the present moment.
"You don't know how grateful we are for you being with us," Jumana expressed with joy, "We enjoyed our time together." Her warm smile provided comfort, prompting a reciprocal grin from Layan as she replied,
"I'm Glad that we've met again, Sister!"
Turning their attention to the boys, they found them breathless with laughter, "To ...be honest." Jaber managed to speak between laughs, "That... was the ...craziest thing you've ever done, Omar." He stood up, trying to balance himself, "Good thing he hadn't had a stroke from what you've done."
"Agreed, but…" Omar nodded, using a towel to stifle a laugh, "Looks like you haven't heard the rest," he teased with a smirk.
The playful banter continued, with Jaber expressing disbelief, "Oh, God. Don't tell me..."
"Yes, it is..." Answered Omar with an evil smirk,
"No, no, no..." Jaber shook his head, chuckling, "No way, Omar. No way...I thought you were calmer."
"Don't let the cover trick you, smart doctor," Omar said, throwing a playful punch at his cousin's arm.
"Are you done talking?" Just then, Ali's stern voice interrupted their merriment, "We will meet soon after Jaber and his sister are done with their final exams; they have to study."
"What?" Surprised, Omar turned to Jaber, "Why didn't you tell us? We could've come after you're done; so, we don't disturb you in your studies." Said Omar, guilt was obvious in his voice.
"No, it's ok cousin. You're welcome at any time. "Jaber raised his huge hand while explaining, "We still have one month until Final Exams appear, besides..." Jaber's voice was filled with gratitude as told Omar,
"We couldn't find out about this cursed script without you guys after God's mercy first." Omar shook the back of his head with a grin, saying,
"Nah, it's nothing to thank us for, and..." He turned himself facing Jaber while walking away with Ali, "You can call us if you need help. We are brothers, remember?"
Jaber kept his mouth open for a moment. Jaber's face broke into a small smile, "Yeah," He spoke and followed them, "We are."
"Omar, Walk properly." Ali's strict order made Omar grumble in return, and went back to normal, "Fine whatever."
"Layan, are you done?" Ali called out as they reached her but stopped when he saw tears in Layan's eyes as she shared with Jumana an emotional embrace, determined not to leave her side.
"Please don't cry." Jumana comforted her, offering a towel to wipe her tears, "We will meet soon."
Layan, wiping her tears, asked, "R-Really?" Her voice held a childlike vulnerability, eliciting a chuckle from Jumana.
"Of course! I promise!" Jumana happily proclaimed, raising her little finger. A childish smile graced Layan's face as she accepted the little finger promise.
Interrupting the poignant moment, Omar walked to inform Layan "Sister," Omar this time spoke, and Layan looked at him, " We have to go." He points with his thumb at the car. She nodded and waved for Jumana and walked away.
It seems that Jumana remembered something, "W-Wait a moment please!" They all looked at her questioning, " I've almost forgotten something!" She pulled out two decorated bags and handed one to Layan, while Jaber Handed the other bag to Omar,
"We kinda wanted to give you something special for reminiscent," Jaber explained, and Jumana added, "Open it when you leave, okay?"
As Omar and Layan said their goodbyes and entered the car, Jaber and Jumana watched as the car window rolled down and Layan cheerfully exclaimed, "See you soon, sister!" And waved, exposing a childish grin on her face.
The cousins waved back as the car drove away, leaving Jumana with a smile on her face, oblivious to the telltale blush on Jaber's cheeks.
XXX
Inside the car, Omar gently guided Layan back into her seat, his eyes conveying a mix of concern and exasperation. "Careful, sister," he reminded her, his tone laced with a hint of weariness.
Layan, undeterred by Omar's subtle disapproval, let out a dramatic sigh, saying, "Oh, come on!" she protested, brushing off his bored side-eye. "Don't be such a killjoy."
"Listen to your brother Layan," Ali interjected with authority, receiving a begrudging compliance from his sister. A sign that she is obeying his commands,
"Do you have any idea where we're headed?" Ali inquired, casting a glance at the road and drawing Layan's attention. Omar, already familiar with the plan, watched the exchange with mild disinterest. Layan, however, pondered for a moment before hazarding a guess, "To meet Mommy, right? I miss her so much…"
"Yeah, but ..." Ali began, observing the despondent expression that clouded Layan's face. Ignoring her plea, he continued, "We will head somewhere else beforehand."
"No, I want to see Mommy." Layan insisted, her tone reflecting her longing. "And why do we need to head somewhere else before we meet her?"
"Because Ali needs to send a package to one of his friend's family," Omar explained while playing on his phone.
"His… friend's family…?" Layan's mind raced, and then her face lit up with realization. "Aha!" she exclaimed. "You mean the guy with sharp green eyes and long black hair who's always using his left hand?" Her swift recognition left Ali and Omar astonished.
"H-How did you know him?" Omar asked, his disbelief evident.
" Ali was always talking to him and calling him A...A... " Layan struggled to recall. She couldn't remember very well but tried to, "A... Akai? I think?"
"Yeah, that's his name," Ali confirmed, focusing on the road as he drove to their destination.
"By the way, Layan," Omar interjected, drawing her attention. "Do you remember anything before you woke up in the hospital?"
"Nothing at all, but…" Layan shook her head, her next question casting a chill over the occupants of the car, "What does it feel to be burned in acid?"
(W.N: Don't do or implement any experiments on Layan's questions. She is a crazy person, and you will hurt yourself if you do, so don't implement her thoughts or questions.)
"What kind of question is that?" Ali asked with a tinge of annoyance, arching an eyebrow. Omar, adopting a composed demeanor, turned to Layan and inquired, "Did you see something like that in a movie with Jumana?"
Layan shook her head. "No," she replied simply, fixing her sharp gaze on Ali. " It suddenly popped up in my mind."
Ali, focusing on the road, let out a deep sigh. "In any case, let's not disclose anything to anyone. We still don't know what's going on around us."
"Agreed, brother," the twins chorused, reclining in their seats as the car continued to its destination.
Ali was desperate to learn what had happened to Layan during her time in prison. However, he was puzzled as to why GAMMA had refused him access to Max's system. Omar, on the other hand, was privy to the details. Max had confided in him about what he had seen in prison, which prompted him to tighten the security measures around his sister and maintain his composure.
Omar's thought process was similar to Layan's, making it easy for him to envision what she had gone through. However, he was unwilling to share this information with Ali, who was a member of GAMMA. It's not like Omar doesn't trust his brother, but he believed that the organization was currently riddled with traitors and was out of control. Any leaks could potentially spell disaster for the Kanata Family and plunge them into a deep abyss. The car finally reached the residential place and parked near a bakery store.
"Good." Ali silently muttered to himself as the car came to a stop, "We've reached our destination." With a swift motion, he grabbed his phone and opened the car door. Layan's eyes lit up as she gazed at the bakery,
"Are we going to the bakery before we visit Mom?" A sharp glance from Ali reminded her of their prior discussion. "Fine," she grumbled in defeat, while Omar struggled to contain his amusement, gently patting his sister's shoulder, "First-time sister?"
"Humph." She pouted and turned aside, making her brother confused with an apology smile. He needs to learn more about girls' attitudes; solving their problems is like finding a needle solution in the pile of problems. He suddenly thought of an idea and looked at her saying,
"You know." Omar began bringing her attention, "I have an idea." He signed her to come closer and whispered in her ear. She looked at him with her eyes sparkling, "Brilliant!"
As they prepared to exit the car, Ali, with a hint of frustration, addressed the twins, "You both know I won't listen to your pleas, right?"
"Unless we told the minister." Layan's mischievous grin was bright while she revealed Hakima's phone number, a ploy that Omar understood well. Ali ran his hand through his hair and sighed deeply, "Fine, I'll go and buy some."
"Yay!"
"Don't forget to buy Palestine flags and scarves," Omar reminded, prompting a quizzical look from Ali before realization dawned. "Of course, I won't forget; it's a priority. I'm grateful you reminded me," Ali replied in his usual nonchalant manner.
"Is there something wrong in Palestine, brother?" Layan's innocent inquiry caught her brothers off guard, their expressions softening as they realized she still struggled to recall certain details.
Ali had visited Palestine with his father and Jassem for business, but he hesitated to share those memories with Layan, knowing she wouldn't fully comprehend. Protecting her fragile mental state was paramount, but finding the right way to explain remained a challenge. Recollections of the landscape sent a shiver down Ali's spine, yet he found solace in knowing someone who could help Layan understand. With a deep breath, he adjusted his fedora, concealing his emotions as they ventured into the day ahead.
Omer couldn't shake the feeling that Ali's words were meant for him as he strode away, declaring, "I won't be late." The intensity in Ali's deep, oceanic eyes seemed to convey a hidden message, a silent plea.
"Until I come back, stay in the car," Ali had instructed. Omer instantly grasped the unspoken subtext: /Explain to her until I come back./. He took it upon himself to interpret the message in his unique way.
"Oh, I forgot to fill you in," Omer began, slipping effortlessly into his usual role, "I'll walk you through everything, okay?" She nodded in response.
"Alright, listen…"
Minutes later, Ali came out from the nearby store, holding a bag of pastries in one hand and scarves in the other. He observed the twins engrossed in conversation inside the car, with Layan nodding in understanding.
"Aha! Now I get it!" Layan's voice was clear to Ali's hearing, "You are saying that those 'Nameless creatures' are trying to take the Palestinian's land by force, and the Palestinians are trying to defend themselves and their lands, right?"
"Exactly," Omar affirmed, turning to face Ali, who was quietly chuckling to himself.
Layan turned and asked Ali annoyed, "What are you laughing at?"
" 'Nameless Creatures'?" Ali repeated her words, "I quite like that nickname," he mused. In response, Layan quipped, "Of course they are! Or let's say… Diapers Soldiers!" Their shared laughter drew in their bemused brothers.
"It's truly bewildering, the events unfolding in the world today, isn't it?" mused Omar, looking at his siblings.
"Dunno," replied Ali, as he rubbed his eyes wearily. "As we grow older, we encounter more marvels than the Seven Wonders of the World."
"Agreed," Omar confirmed, his gaze fixed on the floor of the car. Layan's words spilled forth involuntarily as she faced the car seat, "To me, it feels more like a recurring nightmare than reality," she confessed. Ali and Omar looked at her, as she continued, "It repeats itself over and over, in different times and places. So, can you two please tell me…" She raised her head, locking eyes with her brothers, "How can I wake up from this nightmare?" Her words hinted at the gradual return of her memory.
Omar's irritation grew as he absentmindedly scratched the tip of his nose, preparing to respond, "We don't-" Suddenly, the car door swung open, cutting Omar off midsentence. Omar and Layan jolted and looked at Ali with confusion.
"We mustn't answer your questions," Ali spoke softly. "But don't worry," he added, extending his hand to assist Layan as she stepped out. Layan looked at her brother, bewildered by the warm yet melancholic smile that adorned his face. It was the first time she had seen her perpetually irritable brother exhibit such unexpected kindness. "Time itself will answer all your questions."
XXX
The teenager sat on the couch, crossing both arms and exhibiting an unusual manner of repeatedly raising and lowering one leg. Clad in a lined green shirt, a wool jacket, and long blue jeans. Her green eyes mirrored Akai's, with a small fang peeking out from her mouth. Letting out a sigh, she muttered in Japanese, "That Arabian guy. What takes him so long?"
"Be patient, Masumi," a female voice interjected, causing the teenager to turn her head and spot a short, blonde-haired woman entering the living room.
"Mama?" Masumi blinked in surprise. "Since when have you been here? I thought you went out shopping."
"I canceled my plans." Explained the blond woman, "He has company."
"Company?" Masumi repeated, her face suddenly serious as she grasped the significance. "Who are they?"
"They are-" The ring of the doorbell echoed through the house, prompting the teenager's mother to rise and answer the door. However, to her bewilderment, there was no one in sight when she swung the door open. After a moment of confusion, her gaze fell upon a short girl with black hair, donning sunglasses, a red-white-and-green scarf, a black baseball hat, and a long coat. It was Layan, visibly distressed and perspiring. She seemed both speechless and astonished as if she had encountered a ghost standing behind the woman.
" Cheese and Waffles! " Layan blurted out, before being swiftly hushed by Omar, who intervened to prevent any further outbursts. "This woman is a Witch-MuFIiiNn!" he muffled Layan's words with a stern look. Apologizing for his sister's behavior, Omar explained, "She's a bit childish at times. I'll take responsibility for her actions." He discreetly wore sunglasses to avoid drawing attention.
In response, the blonde woman chuckled in a British accent, "It should be, but it's alright." Answered the blonde woman expressing understanding. "I've encountered similar reactions from children before," she reassured them before pointing at Layan. "By the way, she will turn blue."
Omar observed Layan, who was grasping his hand frantically. As he released her, she hunched over, struggling to catch her breath. "What... is wrong ...with you for ...God's sake!?" she gasped between breaths, as Omar explained, "I forgot!"
Unperturbed, Layan dismissed the incident with a wave of her hand, saying, "Humph, Whatever..."
"But Don't forget that you still owe someone something. " Omar reminded her of an outstanding obligation. Understanding his implication, Layan took off her hat and began to address the situation at hand.
"I'm- " As Layan began to speak, a sudden yell pierced the air, interrupting her.
"YOU TWO BRATS!" The twins, startled by the outburst, turned to see their brother Ali angrily running toward them from a distance. "WHAT DID I SAY ABOUT RUNNING AROUND!"
Realizing the gravity of the situation, Omar muttered, "Oh God," while Layan remarked, "We've taken an air in the vein," to which Omar added, "And it's a big one," with his sister concurring, "Definitely." And both of them gulped,
Amused by the chaotic scene, the blonde woman concealed her laughter and inquired, pointing in Ali's direction, "Do you know him?"
Just then, the short-haired teenager appeared from behind to see what was happening.
"Yes! He is our big brother!" Layan eagerly responded, but Omar quickly intervened, tapping her shoulder with a warning. With a sheepish smile, he addressed the woman, "Well, we apologize again for what she said. Bye!" He then turned to his sister and urged, "Come on, sis! Let's run!" and promptly initiated a hasty retreat. Layan followed suit, calling out, "Hold it, big brother!"
Turning to face his sister with a disgruntled expression, Omar pleaded, "Please don't tell me that you've dropped something else…."
Layan, however, had a different revelation. "No, it's much worse," she declared, producing a postal parcel from her backpack. "It's saying that the location is right here on this street," she pointed to the address on the package.
"You sure about it?" Omar inquired, raising an eyebrow.
"Positive. Check by yourself," Layan replied as she handed her brother the package and pointed to the label. "See? It says it's in this street, and the house number is 82," she explained, gesturing toward the house number.
Omar scrutinized the package. "Where…?" he muttered, to which Layan retorted, "Please, brother, use your brain a little bit. It's over there," she pointed in the direction of the blonde woman. After re-reading the details on the package, Omar approached the woman.
"Pardon me, ma'am," Omar politely inquired, "Do you usually receive a package from a guy whose name is Akai Shuichi?"
"Yes, that is my son," the blonde woman confirmed.
"Perfect," Omar called for Layan, "Sister! You are correct!"
"Akai Shuichi?" Masumi, the short-haired teenager, repeated the name.
"You know him?" Omar asked.
"Yes, that's my big brother's name!" Masumi exclaimed happily, joining the conversation. "My brother sends me a video tape mail every now and then."
"Then this lady must be your mother," Omar deduced.
"Correct," Masumi confirmed, raising 'his' thumb. Layan, arriving at that moment, expressed her annoyance, "I told you that is the place. Why didn't you listen to me?"
"Because this package is fidelity," Omar responded, taking off his glasses.
Layan shrugged, "Whatever you say."
"In this case, there is no need to run to find the owner of the package," Omar concluded, taking the package from Layan.
"Agreed!"
The twins were then approached by the blonde woman with a question. "Can I ask you two about something?"
"Sure!" Layan responded eagerly, with Omar adding, "Depending on the question."
"Do you know Kareem Kanata?" the blonde woman inquired, piquing Layan's curiosity.
"No/Yes." The twins gave contrasting responses to the question,
"Is that person your friend?" Layan asked looking at her brother with the side of her eye. Omar ran his hand through his hair frustrated,
"No, you dummy!" Omar responded, annoyance was obvious on his face, "He is our father! How can you forget Him this fast?!"
"Well, I am sorry, but I'm not a dummy!" Layan responded, trying to keep her voice down, "And just for you information , you are my brother, so we are both dummies."
"No, I am not," Omar insisted.
"Yes, you are," Layan countered. Their argument continued. Masumi was about to interrupt but the blonde woman stopped her, who understood the potential consequences of intervening, especially with Omar and Layan.
The twins eventually gripped each other's collars angrily. "Wanna a taekwondo fight?" Omar challenged through gritted teeth.
"With pleasure." Layan responded with a mischievous grin, "I'd like to see ya try...Wait, " Her expression quickly shifted. And asked, releasing her brother. "Aren't we supposed to run from someone?" Omar blinked twice realizing,
"You are right." He let go of Layan and Handed the blonde woman the package. "We must run...Now." he declared to his sister, leading her away.
"Run from who?" The twins froze in their tracks at the sight of Ali's smiling face. Sensing trouble, they forced a smile in return.
"You two..." Ali began, cracking his hands, "I believe we've talked about not rooming around the place without me nearby, right?" Ali calmly asked, his smile remaining despite the tense atmosphere.
"Yep," the twins nonchalantly responded. Omar pulled out a water bottle from his bag and took a water bottle.
"And what did you two do?" Ali raised a twitched eyebrow,
"We've saved you more time." Layan answered simply, "Because you've said that you are terrible with directions." This response unexpectedly irked Ali, causing Omar to nearly choke on his drink.
"Easy easy." Layan patted her brother's back and attempted to diffuse the tension. Meanwhile, Masumi and the blonde woman laughed, diverting Ali's attention.
"M-Mrs. Mary Sera?" Ali spoke, surprised.
"Yeah, long time no see," Mary responded.
"Y-Yeah, it's been a while," Ali managed to speak before turning to the twins with a strict tone. "Where is the package?" Layan pointed at the package in Mary's hand.
"Well," Ali said, "We wish you a good day!" He finished with a smile and hastily turned to the twins, "Let's go."
"W-Wait," the short-haired teenager called out, and all of them looked in her direction. "C-Can you stay a little bit?" the teenager requested.
The twins exchanged glances before Ali addressed Masumi. "I apologize, Sera," Ali spoke, adjusting his fedora, "But we have to go. "As Ali finished, his phone rang.
"Pardon." He then excused himself to answer his ringing phone, "Hello, brother Hassan."
As Ali stepped away to take the call, The twins took the opportunity to converse with Masumi, and Layan's curiosity got the best of her as she asked,
The Japanese were taken aback by Layan's question, as she inquired, "What is your name?" It seemed like a peculiar question given their familiarity with one another.
"You don't know our names?" Mary asked, and Layan shook her head negatively. "I didn't notice," Layan said simply.
Omar then explained, "She had an accident that caused her to lose memory," much to Layan's annoyance. "Why did you tell them? It's embarrassing," she whispered to her brother.
"It's alright Layan." Omar whispered back, "We have a deep connection with these guys; they are friends to us."
Layan raised an eyebrow and asked, "You sure?"
"Since when I was telling lies?"
"Oh," She blinked.
"Point taken?" Omar asked, hoping for reassurance.
"Crystal clear," said Layan. She turned to the Japanese and explained, "As my twin brother said, I've lost my memory in an accident," pointing to her bandaged hand with her right thumb.
"Is your hand ok?" Sera asked, worried at the look of Layan's bandage,
Omar reminded her, "You will hurt yourself if you do that."
"It doesn't hurt at all," Layan complained, saying, "That's why I didn't take my pain medication earlier." Her words brought Mar's attention,
"A-Are you sure?" Omar worriedly asked, "What if it indicated something? And don't forget that the doctor said you should take it even the symptoms gone."
"Nah don't worry." Layan shook her hand, "I am fine."
"Lilo." Layan turned to Mary who approached her, Mary asked, "Can you show me your bandaged hand?" Layan raised her hand without hesitation. After touching it, Mary noticed that Layan's hand was slim and thought to herself, "She has Malnutrition."
"Tell me, Lilo," Mary asked, "When did you suture your hand?"
"A week ago." Layan Answered, "May I ask why you are asking?"
"When did you change the bandage?" Mary asked, ignoring Layan's question.
"Yesterday. My cousin bandaged it for me," Layan admitted in defeat.
Mary then informed her, "It is splashed with something brown."
Layan examined her hand and confirmed, "You are correct. I think it was splashed when I fell earlier."
Omar, frowning, asked Layan, "Why didn't you tell me?"
"It doesn't need that much attention! Like I said, I don't feel any pain. Besides, the wound is closed and clean from the inside," Layan tried to defend herself.
Mary, noticing Layan's face was turning red, questioned, "Then why are you sweating?"
"Please Mrs. Mary I am fine; no need to - AAACHOO!" Layan sneezed, covering her mouth with her left arm, and said, "Well, I think I need; I am kinda' dizzy," struggling to maintain her balance.
Omar and Mary rushed to help her. Mary caught Layan and prevented her from falling, reassuring him, "It's alright. I've got her," as she carried Layan inside. She took off Layan's bag, thinking "It's heavy."
"That's weird," Omar spoke, bringing Mary and Masumi's attention, "She was energetic in the morning."
"Does that usually happen to her?" Masumi asked, looking worried at Layan who was sweating and breathing deeply.
"No, It's the first time. She has changed after the incident," Omar explained. As they heard her moaning and shivering, Omar hurried to inform Ali, saying "Put this one to support her head," Omar pointed at the bag before running off.
"Masumi, prepare a bowl of water, bandages, and the medications. She needs to rest," Mary instructed.
"Ok, but what kind of medication?" Masumi asked.
"The one that is used for cold."
Masumi took a last glance before she hurried inside. Mary heard a moan and turned to see Layan trying to open her eyes. Her face was still red, and she was breathing rapidly.
"Lilo…Can you hear me?" Mary asked, noticing Layan's eyes were half open. Layan's tired gaze moved slowly to Mary, filled with confusion.
"What…." Layan managed to speak between breaths, trying to put the words together, "…..What….happ…end?"
"You've blacked out after you've sneezed," explained Mary, saying "Your body is weak; you should take some rest."
Layan grunted while speaking, "Please…I sa..id..ear-Lier…. I am…. fine," slowly raising herself from the ground until she sat, explaining between breaths "The…. sweat …..is no…r….mal….." She trailed off and looked up, staring at the roof.
Mary cursed under her breath, "Ksuo, She had a seizure." she opened Layan's bag and found a small pillow inside. "She knows that she might have had a seizure," thought Mary as she heard Layan mumble something.
"D-Don't…. suffo…cate….m-me," Layan mumbled. Mary took the opportunity and placed the pillow in time before Layan fell to the ground again. After several seconds, Layan's body rose as if she was transforming, then slammed to the ground, shaking violently.
Masumi came to inform Mary but gasped in fear as she looked at Layan. Masumi began speaking in Japanese, "W-What is wrong with her?" she asked between her trembling lips, pointing at Layan, "Why is she shaking like that?"
"It's a neurological disease," answered Mary calmly, looking at Layan and then at the clock in her hand. "She lost her consciousness and can't communicate during the seizure." As soon as Mary finished, she saw foam coming from Layan's mouth.
"Isn't that cyanide?" Masumi asked Pointing at Layan's mouth,
"No, it's not," Mary reassured her, "It's foam, a normal occurrence during the seizure."
"That's scary~." Masumi thought. Anxiously, Masumi inquired, "What are we going to do?"
Just wait," Mary responded, her eyes fixed on the watch, until Ali hurried in, seeking an update, "How is she?" he saw Masumi pointing at Mary and Layan, "She had a seizure all of sudden," Informed Mary and Ali bent his knees and came to assist Mary.
"Pardon, "said Ali rolling his hands, showing his cyber forearm, " I'll take care of the rest," Said Ali not noticing the shock over the Japanese faces. Mary stood up and moved aside, not moving her gaze from the watch.
Layan's trembles slowed down, and Ali started performing the recovery position, beginning form turning her aside and finishing by raising her head. He took several steps back as he explained, "That should do the work." He mumbled under his breath and asked Mary, "How long?"
"Four minutes," Mary replied, expressing her surprise, "I thought your sister's seizures had stopped long ago."
Ali, still monitoring Layan's vital signs, replied, "It had stopped, but it returned after the accident and became severe. The accident exacerbated the seizures, and considering Layan's ability to handle epilepsy, time is limited for her." He finished speaking and began searching Layan's bag for her medications.
"What was Hakima's response?" Mary inquired, looking at Layan's weakened state.
"She couldn't accept it," Ali replied simply, "She believes that the solution for Layan's condition lies in her ability to recall and confront everything that has happened on her own." He frowned as he withdrew a medication vial and prepared a needle.
"So, you're saying that Hakima thinks Layan's issue is psychological and depends on Layan's ability to handle it herself, right?" Mary sought clarification.
"Precisely," confirmed Ali, as he administered the medication. He heard a moan and looked up to see Layan turning and rubbing her eyes. She was sweating and breathing heavily.
"What… happened?" Layan asked, grabbing the collar of her shirt and slowly raising herself. Ali stepped aside to allow Mary to assist Layan in leaning against the wall.
"You've had a seizure," Omar answered, writing down his notes.
"I… see," Layan's gaze moved around until she saw Masumi. Noticing the fear in Masumi's eyes, a weak smile formed on Layan's face.
"Sorry... to scare ...you, pal," Layan said to Masumi, "It seems that this is the first time you've seen a person trembling on the ground."
"Y-Yeah. Kind of," Masumi blushed, making Layan chuckle, "It's ...alright. No need... to be shy. Besides, it would be... interesting to explore... new things, right?"
"Yeah," Masumi's blush turned into a small smile as she approached Layan.
"What is your name?" Masumi asked Layan, and Layan's amber eyes met Masumi's gaze.
"Oh," Layan blinked twice, wiping her sweat, "My... name is ...Lilo Kanata. Pleasure ..to meet ya!" Layan introduced herself. Trying to hide her weakness, she raised her hand with a weak smile.
"Pleasure to meet you too!"
"What ...about.. ya?"
"My name is Sera Masumi," Masumi spoke in Japanese and then realized that Layan is Arabian and British.
"Sorry," Masumi apologized in English, "I forgot."
"It's ... all right," Layan suddenly spoke in Japanese, bringing everyone's surprise, "I... can understand... and...speak Japanese too." She finished with a weak smile.
"You can speak Japanese too? Cool!"
"Excuse us, Masumi," Omar spoke in Japanese, and Masumi turned to look at him in shock. His face was red, and he avoided her gaze, saying, "We need to give her the medicine."
"Ah, ok." Masumi stepped aside and remembered something when she saw Ali's cybered forearm.
"Ne, Ali-San," Masumi began.
"What?" Ali responded, still concentrating on giving Layan's medication.
"What happened to your arm?" asked Masumi, pointing at Ali's forearm.
"Well," he sighed, "It's kind of a long story to tell."
" He sacrifices his forearm to save a group of kids," Omar explained in Brief,
"Why... you didn't ...tell me? Huh?" Layan asked annoyed gazing at Ali,
"La-Lilo..." Ali was flattered as he spoke to her, ignoring her question he intensified, "We need to give you the medicine."
"Why you... didn't wait... for me to ...help you?" She asked with her baby face,
"Oh, come on... not the baby face again," Ali said and Layan pouted, causing Masumi to laugh. The Arabs looked at each other. Realizing their actions earlier they joined Masumi.
Mary stood a few steps away, quietly observing Masumi's interactions. Masumi had struggled to socialize with others due to the frequent changes of location and her parents' risky professions. Now, she witnessed her daughter engage in conversation and laughter with people she had initially found unsettling. It became evident to Masumi that she only needed to step forward to discover the truth for herself. Witnessing this progress brought a small smile to Mary's lips. At the time, she has to take out every piece of information from that GAMMA Agent. She knows that it's not easy to do so, but she will try her luck and pull out informations from him.
*1Hour Later*
As she set the tea on the table, Mary spoke, "Now I understand. You and the green-eyed brat had fought a stranger, and as a result, you've lost your forearm."
Ali, musing to himself about the green-eyed brat, realized she meant Akai. He chuckled, "Well, yes, that's what's happened."
"When will you two grow up?" Mary asked coldly, crossing her arms and legs.
Ali avoided meeting Mary's gaze, sensing an unsettling aura around her, but he knew there was a reason behind it. "God, she is like my mom," he thought, a shiver running through his skin. With a forced smile, he replied, "S-Soon, don't worry Mrs. Mary."
"I hope so," she said, taking another sip of her tea. "So, how is she?"
"You mean my mother?"
"Who else do you think?" Mary asked, raising an eyebrow in boredom.
"Oh, uhh...Apologies, "Ali rubbed the back of his head, answering, "She is doing fine."
"Good," Mary said, glancing out the window before returning her attention to Ali. She seemed to have missed her old friend Hakima, and There was a longing in her eyes as she inquired, "I heard that after she married, she became a Doctor in teaching…."
"Yeah," Ali leaned in, intertwining his fingers as he shared, "She continued her studies and obtained a Master's degree in Nursing. After the explosion, she began teaching at the College of Nursing in Turkey. And now, she's reuniting with her family." As Ali painted a mental picture of Hakima joyously reuniting with her parents and siblings, a smile tugged at his lips.
"I just wanted to see her smile, even if just once, that's all…" Ali's smile faded as he looked up to find Mary glaring at him. "Is something wrong, Mrs. Mary?" he inquired.
Mary, calmly sipping her tea, began, "You know that Britain isn't as safe as it was 35 years ago, and bringing her here would bring about a lot of trouble." Her tone darkened gradually as she continued, "Despite being aware of this, you've brought her here without considering the circumstances and the danger it poses to her and the rest of your family."
As Ali waited for Mary to finish, he kept his fingers crossed in front of his mouth and asked, "Is there anything else you'd like to add, Mrs. Mary?"
"What is the point of all this nonsense? Bringing her here would kill her and these tired teenagers, Yet I don't want to see them gone.." As Mary finished her burst the place went quiet...And still, there was no response from Ali, sitting quietly and not saying a word. That caused Mary to temper up and open her mouth, but surprisingly Ali was faster,
"I want neither," Ali finally responded, uncrossing his fingers as he began explaining, "But we can't hide in a hole for the rest of our lives. If we do, they will only grow stronger, and if we don't make a move and reveal ourselves, they will annihilate us in one fell swoop." Finishing his explanation, Ali took a sip of his tea. Mary was held back by his strange way of response, but made it slip away as she asked cautiously,
"Why do you and your siblings risk your lives to this extent?" Mary's concern was palpable. She watched as Ali calmly placed his teacup on the table and stated, "We don't undervalue our lives, Mrs. Mary. We simply refuse to stay silent in the face of injustice."
For a moment, Mary's eyes widened, then she turned away, muttering under her breath. "You remind me of that fool," she remarked, before inquiring, "Does Emily know about this?"
"She knows part of it," Ali replied, tapping on his phone. "Even if she were to learn the rest later, she wouldn't be able to stop us. But she also knows that we will return safely."
"It's evident," Mary said pensively, pouring herself another cup of tea and adding a spoonful of sugar. "So apparent that the five of you are on the verge of giving her a heart attack. I wonder how she will cope with that." She watched as Ali burst into laughter.
"What so funny?" Mary asked, attempting to maintain her composure.
"Indeed, she may have a heart attack at times, but we face a punishment for it… My goodness, even the punishment is too simple to be considered one!" Ali chuckled, wiping away his tears with a tissue. "That's why my mother is gorgeous!"
A faint smile crept onto Mary's face. Her friend remained unchanged. "It seems that you and your siblings are considered outminded," Mary remarked, as she sweetened her tea.
"Well, you're somewhat right about that, but there's another reason," Ali agreed, bringing his phone to his ear.
"Which is?" Mary raised an eyebrow, awaiting Ali's response. On the other end, Ali sported a mischievous grin, saying,
"We don't fear death."
*In Another Room*
After changing Layan's bandage and administering her medicines, the teenagers settled on the couch, exchanging a multitude of ideas and thoughts, solidifying their bond of friendship. Layan, feeling drowsy, succumbed to a nap, while Omar was engrossed in watching Aki's videotapes.
"Whoa," Omar exclaimed, his eyes fixed on the TV displaying Akai's formidable fighting skills. "I never would've imagined Akai-San to be a fighter at all."
"Yeah! He is very professional !" Masumi chimed in enthusiastically. "Do you want me to teach you?" she offered.
Omar's face suddenly flushed. Raising his hands, he responded, "N-No thanks, I'm good. I have a black belt in Taekwondo."
"R-Really?" Masumi's eyes sparkled. "Does Lilo have the same skills?" she inquired, gesturing towards the slumbering teenager on the couch.
"Yeah, she does," Omar confirmed. "But she's faster than me. I rely on strength in my fights, whereas she relies on speed."
"Heh~ That's interesting. I'm looking forward to sparring with you two," Masumi remarked.
Omar raised his hand, saying, "No thanks, I'm out of the duel."
Masumi approached with a smug smile and questioned Omar, "Why? Are you afraid of losing?"
"Nah, I just don't fight girls," Omar replied, stepping back to avoid her gaze. "Hurting girls is not my idea of fun, even if it were for sport."
At that moment, Layan yawned and rubbed her eyes. Her gaze settled on Omar and Masumi, who were engaged in conversation.
Masumi was taken aback. "H-How did you know that I'm a girl?" she asked, astonished.
Omar, gazing at the ground, replied, "I won't explain; It's obvious."
"Oh, come on, don't be shy!" Masumi playfully punched Omar, but he evaded it, speaking in a firm tone, "I don't engage in physical altercations with girls. It's against my principles."
"Ah," Masumi realized that Arabs hold steadfast values and principles that cannot be transgressed. "Sorry," she apologized, a tinge of regret evident in her tone.
"It's all right. The important thing is that you know. Please be mindful next time," Omar tried to diffuse the situation, but the tension lingered.
"I can answer your question if you want to."
"R-Really?" Masumi inquired, turning to Layan.
"Yeah, but I can't tell you like this," Layan replied with a wink. Masumi noticed Layan motioning for her to come closer. She nodded and approached Layan. Whispering in Masumi's ear, Layan divulged the information, causing Masumi's face to flush red as she turned to Layan in disbelief.
"I-Is it true?!" Masumi asked, her cheeks still tinged with red.
"Trust me," Layan said, a confident smile gracing her face as she pointed to herself. "I am an anatomist."
"A-Anatomist?"
"Yes, it delves into the intricacies of the human body. For instance, it can be instrumental in determining the cause of someone's death."
"That's incredible!"
"And about the duel," Layan broached the topic once more, inquiring, "May I participate?"
"Of course!" Masumi's eyes sparkled with excitement. "I can't wait to compete against each other!"
"So am I!" Layan exuded the same energy. Surveying the room, Layan asked, "When can we start?"
"Just hold on until I find a suitable location," Masumi instructed, then dashed out of the room. Layan let out a wry smirk and turned to walk over to her brother. Omar was seated on the couch, lost in his thoughts.
"How are ya, bro…" Layan's question lingered in the air as Omar remained unresponsive.
"Bro?" She waved her hand in front of him, eliciting a groan from Omar. "You are annoying when you do that," he commented.
"Can't help it," Layan shrugged and inquired, "What is bothering your big mind?"
Omar gazed at her and questioned, "What?"
Realizing his sister's earlier question, Omar's reply was firm, "Nothing at all."
"Don't play dumb," Layan frowned, giving him a playful punch. "I know when you are happy, sad, frustrated, relaxed, angry, calm, honest, lying, and even when you are trying to hide your concerns from me."
Omar chuckled at his sister's analyzation, rubbing his eyes, "Oh God," he turned to her and admitted with a smile, "You got me. I really started to think that you have our mom's skills."
"In that case, my prize is for you to tell me what is occupying your smart brain, can you?" Layan's question was laced with playful banter, making Omar look at his fingers. His smile faded as he spoke.
"I am very sorry, my sister."
Layan blinked twice, chuckling as she asked, "Why…? What are you apologizing for?"
He looked at her with guilt filling his eyes, "For everything."
Layan's face drew a warm smile, saying "Don't be, big brother," she reassured him, embracing him. "I kinda understand why you must leave me alone, and the fact that you don't accept it at all." As she continued, "Even though I completely disagree about it, but please don't worry," she raised her head, staring at him with her warm, childish grin, "I'll be fine."
His face softened, and he returned the hug to conceal his despair, saying in a shaky voice, "Don't you dare to die on me, understand?" As they let go of each other, he added, " I should tell you the same, but don't forget," Layan placed her index finger on her mouth, concluding, "That this will be our little secret."
"Of course, it is!" They sealed their bond with a fist bump and a smile.
Ali was several steps from their room, overhearing everything the twins had spoken about. Mary and Masumi were further from him, waiting for Ali to bring his siblings, but halted as he heard their conversation. When the twins finished, Ali gazed at his cyber forearm, his mind consumed by one thought,
"Am I doing the right thing?"
End of Chapter 14
~Ze21020