Tag: Short fiction

Experiment: Logan Jones (Trigger) Ch5

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Chapter 5

Logan felt the kick of skill upgrade and new skill unlocked in his body. At the same time he heard the ping of the instant effect it was doing to his body and awareness. His senses sharpened. He scanned the training area with a different vision.

He took in the fight going on in the sand ring in front of him a few feet away. He knew it was just about over. It was all a show neither male slave was trying to hurt the other. They were assigned to showcase what the youths would be learning in the coming months.

Logan noticed Sargent Jai give both combatants a look with a nod of his head. On cue one the slave swung around using his sword to push his combatant back with wind magic. The other slave was thrown out of the ring turned using the sword he stabbed the ground with wind magic. The slave launched himself up from the force of the punch and he did a backflip onto his feet.

Logan smiled as he took in the show of magic and skill. It was magic he had seen before in another life. He studied both men with new senses and eyes and recalling the events and both men’s mastery in wind magic. He analyzed the fight and digital numbers appeared over their heads. Indicating. Level 150 wind magic was the number of the man inside the ring. The man outside the ring had a level 260 wind magic above his head.

Logan blinked and numbers disappeared. He grinned. As he realized only a few seconds had passed as he had used his new skill and added on to his plan.

Both Slaves turned and bowed to Sargent Jai. Jai laughed clapping his hands as the others followed suit and they cheered for the two slaves. Logan was quiet though.

Sargent Jai then turned back to his group of trainees. “Wind combat magic is what you will come to learn and master here along with many other things. Your lessons will begin tomorrow. Today we will go through magical placement and then we dine together here. The king has prepared a fine feast for you all to enjoy. Who is first to be tested in what class you should fit in?” He said and looked at Logan expectantly and gave him a friendly smile.

Logan stared. “Marksman is my class and trade. I entertain females as my hobby.” He said.

Sargent Jai stared at him. “King Harold expressed as much to me. Though that your talents of magical healing would serve the group better. You will be trained by our support healer soldiers. You could do well for a bit of wind magic training if you have the skill for it.” He said.

Logan ignored Sargent Jai disregarding him as he walked past him to the slave wing magic user staring at him. Logan nodded to him. “You’re pretty damn good at what you do. I’m Logan Jones. I’m a Marksman. What’s your name?” He said.

The slave frowned but he nodded to Logan. “Trigger of Heights. What is a Marksman class?” He asked.

The other slave next to him laughed. “Sounds like a lot shit to me. He most be a throw away archer or something.” He laughed in Logan’s face.

Logan waved a hand at the wood sword in Trigger’s hand. “Do you need that?” He asked.

Trigger frowned glancing back over Logan’s shoulder at Sargant Jai. Logan saw Jai give a stiff nod.

Trigger handed it to Logan. “You can have it for practice.” He said.

Logan took the wood sword examined it and then he waved it expertly before he pointed the blade at a practice dummy a few feet away. The wood blade glowed for a second and then blue magic launched out from the blade. The blue magic raced quickly for the dummy and exploded on impact.

There was long silence as Logan smiled. As he held a glowing blue blade sword. “Marksman class means I blow shit up with magic. That wind magic trick you did with your sword. Can you teach me how to do that?” He said.

Experiment: Logan Jones (The Marksmen) Ch3

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Chapter 3

Logan noticed a sudden pause in Harold’s speech. He glanced out the side of his eye to see Harold paying a close attention and focus on Darla. Logan let go of Darla’s hand to the small of her back casually guided her to the crowd.

Harold started up with his speech again. Logan paid little focus on it. It was background noise and flowery words meant to tug on the youth around them. Logan felt the tug of the magic Harold used in his voice attempting to work on him. He purposely turned his focus away. He looked at Darla. He noticed her scent. She smelled of fresh air and woods.

Darla was watching him though he knew she was still aware of everything Harold was saying. She had advanced hearing along with other natural enhancements. He stared at her with open interest.

“You are playing a game with me?” She said using a private soft voice. Her right eye brow raised though. “Are you using me to whet your interests?” She said already suspecting him of more then a sexual interest in him.

Darla was sharp to suspect he was up to something. She was a key element in his plan. The game was played against him from day one he got here. This time he was going to play his own game. He was aware of a few eyes looking at him and Darla.

“When man finds a woman on your world to be his woman. What do they call that relationship on your world?” Logan asked her.

Darla frowned at him and she shook her head. “Relationship?! What does this word mean. What does this have to do with sex?” She said.

Logan smiled. “What do you call a man that has sex with a woman continuously?” He said.

Darla’s cheeks flushed but she stared at him seriously. “A female would be his slave or his mate but there is no difference in my realm. Are you attempting to make me your slave? I thought you just wanted sex?” She said.

Logan grinned. “You know I think I kind ah like you’re world operates.” He said with a chuckle.

“YOU! FACE ME!” Harold said in a commanding voice of magic. Logan turned on his heel and faced the attention of Harold’s deep magical focus. “State your name and class. Hero.” He said to Logan forcing compliance from him. Harold’s eyes glowed intently with a striking impact of magical energy.

Logan couldn’t lie. It was a truth tell. A spell Harold used on Logan many times before and the others to find out the truth. He focused his mind on what he did in his home world. He had been trained and educated from the time he was ten in marksmanship and hunting. He thought about the competitions he entered won and lost. His family had been soldiers, hunters and tradesman. “Logan Jones. Marksmen is my job class. Entertaining women is my leisure time.” He said and got some laughter at the end of his words from the youths.

Harold snorted shaking his head and blinked freeing Logan from the spell. Logan rolled his shoulders as he stared at Harold now.

Harold’s magical eyes still glowed with power but amusement was in them as well directed Logan now. “Well Marksman. Are you trained in any other weapons besides firearms and such?” He asked and punched a little magic in his words at the end to make it a command.

Logan felt punch but he was able too keep on his feet and keep his mind focused. “My people taught me to use all kinds of weapons in combat. I also have a talent for using many kinds of magic.” He said.

Logan could see the interest in Harold’s golden magical eyes now. The wizards behind him as well were perked up with interest at Logan now. “Healing magic. That can be very useful in heroes group. Do you have talents in that?” Harold asked.

Logan shrugged. “A little bit here and little bit there. It depends on what you’re paying me.” He said and got a shocked silence afterward.

Harold stared at him in surprise. “You have been called to be a hero for this land. A fated savior for the good people of Grim OLD. A land of peace and-” Harold said but he stopped when Logan opened his mouth wide and yawned. Harold’s wide eyes and face showed shocked amusement.

Logan waved a hand. “Ah yeah. Mr. King. I don’t give a damn about that shit. I’ll do the job you called me here to do. I just got a small fee for it and I’ll fit into the position you want. I don’t work for free.” He said.

Harold stared at him. His eyes glowed staring at Logan scanning his body and then he nodded at Logan. “What is your small fee?” He asked.

Logan nodded. “I want knowledge on light and fire magic. That’s my fee.” He said.

Harold seemed to relax visibly and even smiled as he nodded his head. “Indeed. You will be given that training more then enough training. We have combat teachers that will help you.” He said.

Logan shook his head. He knew already knowing where Harold was trying to screw him over again for a second time. The trainers wouldn’t teach him shit or give him the skills needed for his plan. “No that’s not what I mean. I want books and space and time to get myself ready for whatever job you called us here to do. Respectfully I’ve already have training from experienced warriors and such.” He said.

Harold looked a little annoyed but laughed it off. “It must be a miscommunication between us or you are not hearing me clearly. I said you would get what you combat teachers that will help you onward in your destiny. Enough talk. Your teachers are at the door and will lead in education and training.” He said a little bit more heatedly with smile. The crowd seemed to calm and smile at his face.

Logan knew it was the magical charm he was using on them. Logan shrugged seeing this conversation going a direction he didn’t care to go.

He ignored Harold as he stared at the wizards behind Harold. His gaze focused on a wizard staring at him.

Logan remembered him. The wizard had a position he held in the castle library. A plan formed in his head as a smile curved his lips. He looked at Harold to see him studying Logan very closely not smiling now.

Logan turned to Darla and putting his arm around the back of her hips. He then started guiding her to the crowd meeting at the exit. Darla frowned at him not saying anything at how casual he had taken to leading her around. Logan saw Princess Jasmine wave at him and give a pretty smile. She stood among the kidnapped youths waiting for him.

“Do you care if I have a mate already?” Darla asked in a light tone that implied she didn’t care much herself. She was just asking a question.

Logan shook his head staring at her face. “None whatsoever. Why should I? You want me. I want whole bunch of you so nobody else should matter at all between us but a good time. You smell very nice.” He said smoothly.

Darla moved closer. “Thank you!” She said softly.

Blue Technomancer CHAPTER 29

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Chapter 29

Martin sat in his office at a loss for what to do next. He had a lot to do and a lot of people to put in the ground. The only problem was he didn’t know where to start.

“Mr. Remo. Mr. Lucas wishes to see you.” Nikita said over his communicator.

Martin stared at his computer screen waiting staring at footage that took place a several hours ago.

“Tell him to give me ten minutes.” Martin said touching his communicator.

“He says to take your time. He’ll be waiting to give you a report of what he learned.” Nikita said.

Martin turned in his chair. He waved a hand and the memories from a few hours ago were projected from his mind toward his window. He sat back watched his past events play back.

Martin watched the memory of himself sitting in a cafe. He was watching live footage camera feed inside as his team raided the building. All they found were fallen SD agents.

“Ethan. Report.” Martin called to his eldest son.

Ethan was frantically searching around panicked and ignoring his call.

Ryu was quiet. He said nothing.

“Qade. What are you seeing? Where’s your sister?”

“Their alive but their bodies have been shocked with some type tazar or electrical weapon. Jess isn’t here. Probably the team that hit em took Jess…Wait. Someone is here? Wow!”

Suddenly, Technomancer appeared in front of the unit like he had stepped out of nothing. He waved a hand and their weapons flew out of their hands. “Jessica is back at Homeworld. I sent her back with Angel and the agents.

“Boss. Can you check it out?!” Ryu asked over the radio.

Martin was already patching into Angel on his phone. The call picked up and Jessica’s face smiled at him. “I’m fine Daddy. Beau got me out.”

Martin opened his mouth but stopped when Ethan started laughing.

Martin turned his gaze to his footage. He stared as Technomancer stood facing off against Ethan.

“You should have let Ethan go.” Technomancer said.

Ethan pointed a finger at Technomancer. “Ryu. Kill him.”

Ryu jumped forward taking a breath and was down on the floor shaking from electrical shock wave from Technomancer’s hand. The others stood back.

Ethan stared at Technomancer. “Listen…ah!” He screamed as Shockwaves rocked through his body making him fall down and then change. Martin watched realising what he was seeing and that….his son was dead. This thing on the ground wasn’t his boy. This thing, this asshole had killed his boy. It hit him hard but he set it aside.

“Qade.” He spoke.

“Yes Sir. What are your orders?”

“Get Ryu up. Pack up the team and leave that shit bag on the floor for Beau to deal with.”

“But..Dad. he’s killing-“

“That piece of shit on the floor isn’t my son and Beau wouldn’t be harming him if it was. We have Jessica back for now that’s all that matters. Move out.” He said and got to his feet.

Martin’s projected memory faded away. Martin stared at the city. He got to his feet and touched his communicator attached to his collar. “Come in Beau.” He said.

“Copy that!” Beau said.

A few seconds later Beau rolled into Martin’s office in his wheelchair. He found Martin alone staring off at the city his back to Beau.

“How did he turn Ethan?” Martin asked.

“Drugs. Got him hooked to some new shit that fucked him up and put him under his control.” Beau said. “Anything else you want to know?” He said.

“Did you find out why he killed Ethan? Did the President order the hit.” Martin asked.

Beau put his phone on Martin’s desk. “I recorded his confession. I had to break him. He said the government wants Jessica bad. He said the issue take down the only thing protecting her from them.” He said.

Martin nodded. “Homeworld. What part did the others play in Ethan’s death?” He asked.

“Nothing. They were puppets literally. They had no control over it. Either case they didn’t have a choice. Funny thing is they said their mission was only to convince her or capture and force her into the program. They have no idea why Agent Hall went as far as he did. None of it made sense to me. I did a little bit more digging though when I searched his apartment and computer. I found deleted emails and messages and reports. He was working for somebody else on side.” Beau said.

Martin frowned. “Who?” He said.

“Your competition. Do you remember the other two gangs back in New York?” Beau said quietly.

Martin froze and then he nodded. “Yeah. The Wakers and The Wicked sisters. I thought Rider and Artemus took them all out. Was that a lie or do you think Rider and Artemus were working for them?”

“The answer was pretty simple. They got the Wakers. They missed taking out the Sisters. They missed their targets and now we have to deal with them now.” Beau said.

“So the sisters are alive?!” Martin said softly. “Holy shit.” He said.

Beau nodded. “Yeah. Their government consultants as well. They want you out. Ethan was the first target your the next one. I’m sorry.” He said.

Martin shook his head. “I should have seen this coming. This is my fault.” He said.

Beau shook his head. “You did the best you could with the knowledge you had. It doesn’t matter now. It’s done we can only move forward. We know their alive now and we know they want you and Homeworld out of the picture. So we need to act plan and act accordingly with that in mind.” He said.

Martin turned toward him. “How did you figure out how to use to teleportation so soon I thought it would take you ten years.”

Beau shook his head. “It wasn’t teleportation. I blended my body into my environment.” He said stiffly.

“Can you replicate it so that the team can use it on missions?” Martin asked.

Beau’s eyes looked back and forth in thought and he grimaced. “I don’t know. It’s not really technology I made. It’s mutation part of my body. There is a chance I can make a suit. I would have to do test prototypes that will explode from an energy burst. I also don’t know if the effort will be useful compared to teleportation.” He said.

Martin grimaced shaking his head. “Alright. Keep working on the Teleporter device. We’re having a memorial for Ethan tomorrow. You’ll be there.” He said.

“What about Ryu?” Beau asked.

Martin frowned. “He’s staying on. He’s the strongest Warrior we have. One way or another we will figure out how to turn him in to something manageable. I just got one question for you though.” He said turning to face Beau.

Beau nodded his head. He noticed Martin looking at his legs. He smiled. “I’m good.” He said.

Martin shook his head. “That’s bullshit you can tell the others brother. Just between me and you.” He said.

Beau nodded. “I have a shit kicking headache and my fucking nubs hurt like hell. Other then that.” He said with shrug.

Martin stared at him. “I don’t want you using your powers. I brought you in for your mind and because you’ve been loyal to me and my family.” He said.

Beau shook his head. “You paid me back a hundred fold by doing your best to get you kids out and keep them alive. I just came here to see if Angel was planning. You don’t owe anything.” He said.

Martin shook his head. “It was a mistake for us to bring you in. The sisters are going to come after you now with a vengeance. This is going to be all out war until we take those bitches out finally.” He said.

Beau smiled. “Bring them on boss. Bring them on.” He said.

Blue Technomancer CHAPTER 28

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Chapter 28

Beau shifted his body and became invisible as he sneaked inside of the building waiting for Angel and the girls to arrange everything right for him to make his appearance. The abandoned office building. The lights went out as soldiers inside started to panic he went to work. He took out the soldiers two at a time quickly with electrical blasts from his hands gloves and then eliminated the last men until it was only their leader left holding a gun to Jessica’s head trying to communicate with his bosses but I had already made sure that he wouldn’t able to do that at all by jamming the signal of his phone.

I finally appeared before him hold my pistol to the leader’s head. I stared at him as he smiled at me. “You want the girl to live then-” He said but the gun flew out of his hand and attached to my chest. Jessica quickly got up as I heard Angel and the others come.

“Take her out of here. I’ll talk to the others when they come.” Beau said.

“Beau. They’ll have Ryu working with them.” Angel said.

“Beau come with us. You’ve done enough. I know your in pain right now.” Jessica said quickly.

“Do as I say Angel. I handle that boy and others. Leave.” Beau said.

They quickly left the room. Beau waited until he knew they were completely alone. “I didn’t kill your men. I don’t want them. All I want to know is did your boss kill that Ethan?” I asked.

The man stared at Beau. “Your Technomancer aren’t you? You’re only going to get yourself in trouble elder.” He said.

Beau stared at him. “That man drugged, and turned that boy against his father and our people and then he killed him. I can’t let that shit slide. I know he enslaved you and our people to keep quiet about it. He’s a fucking traitor and monster. The biggest mistake he made was turning his bullshit my way.” He said.

Suddenly, a burst of wind pushed Beau back toward the wall. The soldier glared at him as power radiated from his eyes and glowing body. “Unlucky for you my job is take out Supers that threaten the state and-ah!” He said but he stopped as Beau shot him in the head.

The man fell to the floor dead. Beau sighed and he holstered his gun in his holster. He waited for Homeworld agents to arrive. He thought about how he could defeat them. He changed his body shifting into environment.

The soldiers arrived and were all gun-ho. Then they were silent as they saw the bodies on the floor. He waited until the fake Ethan Remo arrived. Beau waited and then he appeared before him.

The others stared at Beau as he studied the fake Ethan Remo. “You killed Ethan Remo. You should have let him go.!” Beau said.

Ethan turned to Ryu who stood beside him. “Kill him!” He said.

Ryu smiled and he took a breath. He started to breath out lightning but Beau held up his hand and blasted Ryu with electrical energy and shockwaves until he fell to the floor shaking and rolling on the floor. The others stared as Beau turned his attention to the Fake Ethan.

Ethan started to open his mouth but Beau blasted his body with electrical energy and shockwaves. Ethan screamed and roared as his body began to change and shift into another form and his face changed and then what remained was a monster. Beau let up once to look at one of Ethan’s brothers. “Your Qade. Martin’s youngest. Take your brothers and our people out of here. Tell the boss I’ll give him a report.” He said.

Qade started to shake his head but his radio sounded off. He put his lips to his radio. “Yeah.”

“Your sister is safe. Get our people out of there and let Techno handle it. You Copy!” Martian said over the radio.

Qade sighed staring at Beau. “Copy that. We’re coming back to base.” He said and waved for his people to go. “Somebody pick up Ryu and let’s get the fuck back.” He said and nodded to Beau. “I’ll see you back at the base.” He said and turned and led the way out of the building.

Beau waited until the others were gone. He turned his attention to the man on the floor. “You’re going to tell. Why did what you did or I’m going to burn to death.” He said.

“Fuck you!” He said.

Beau chuckled. “Okay. Let’s do it your way.” He said and opened his hand blasted the fake Ethan with blasts of electrical energy.” He said.

Blue Technomancer CHAPTER 26

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Chapter 26

Beau was smiling as he directed Homeworld agents to put up posters of Jessica in uniform and erotic poses in lock up. Martin and Ethan were in the room. Ryu sat on his bonk keeping a watchful eye on Ethan who had Beau’s special made pistol in his gun belt.

“Why are you here Ryu?” Beau asked him.

Ryu was focused on Ethan. “I got bored with the military so I talked my way out. I was recruited by Ethan a year ago.”

“Hmm. You sure about that?” Beau asked. “Can you even remember what led to this boredom?” Beau asked.

There was an explosion outside. Martin checked his phone. “Shit. Beau it’s happening. They’ve taken her.”

“Taken her?! Who the fuck is her?” Ryu demanded.

Beau nodded to Martin. “You better take Ethan with you. I’ll be fine.”

Martin looked at Ethan. “Stay here. I’m going to get her back.” He said and quickly hurried out the room.

“Who the fuck has been taken tell me?” Ryu demanded raising to his feet.

Beau held up a finger shaking it lightly. “You know who has been taken and why. Hmm. Do you really think they just let you go simple because you used your little trick on them to get out? They had their reason you know for letting you go.”

“Let me out of here.” Ryu said in his special voice.

Neither Ethan or Beau moved to comply. Ryu stared at them. “How are you able to do resist me?”

“The door is open. You can step out any time.” Beau said. “Of course you won’t be going nowhere but a grave afterward. You got to understand. They didn’t let you go. Your the distraction. Jessica is the one they were after the whole time.”

“I could say the same thing about you.” Ryu pushed. “They didn’t just let you go. I’m stronger then you and I’ll only get-“

“I don’t give a fuck.” Beau said. “You maybe a strong young bad ass but all the same Ethan beat you and he’s a lot younger then you. Everyone has a peak and Ethan doesn’t need a party trick to lead. Me. I’m just cripple old man in a wheelchair. Your the enemy of our kind.”

Ryu narrowed his eyes on Beau. “Your reaching. I only do what I need to do to survive. I didn’t make Jess do anything she didn’t first want to do. Let me out of this cage. They won’t be strong enough to get her back without my help.”

Beau smiled at him. “What makes you believe I’m the one holding you in here?”

“You’ve fooled all of them good old man but not me. Your too damn powerful for your own good but I’m still the stronger.”

“Touch my family and you die.” Ethan said softly. “Why did you come here?”

Ryu smiled. “You got me that first go but-“

A spinning shield of metal appeared in front of Ethan as Ryu punched blue and red flames at Ethan.

The shield took on the fire channeling it into a warm hole inside the shield. Ryu cut off his attack and looked Beau.

Beau snapped his fingers and the device fell away returning to spare pieces of parts on the floor. He looked at Ethan who stood unsurprised. Ethan’s gaze was still focused on Ryu.

“Isn’t my power working on you?” Ryu asked.

Beau shrugged. “It is working on me. Ethan is the exception. He has some edge over you. In any case. If you want to get out of the cage alive to help rescue Jessica. You know what you have to do and who you have to give it to.”

“I’m not giving you a blow job.” Ryu said calmly.

Beau grinned. “I’m not looking from one at least not from you.. I’m not in charge here.” He said and nodded to Ethan.

Ryu glanced at him. “What you want Ethan?”

Ethan shook his head. “Nothing. My father and I will get back my sister back. I’m kicking you out. You can go be someone else’s problem.”

“Why did you suggest me joining up then? You suggested it because I’m a fucking bad ass power house.”

Ethan shrugged. “Yeah but you keep fucking around swinging your dick around like you own this place and the people here. Your ego is unwarranted. The problem isn’t that you want my sister. The problem is you think you can fuck with her mind and emotions and think I won’t kill you for it. We ain’t friends and I don’t like you at all. I will and I can kill you if need be. Nothing you say or do will change it. No one fucks with my family or my people. I would die for every last one of them. You should just leave Homeworld and go be a fucking king over some people willing to put up with your shit. I ain’t the one. I have never found you charming or likeable just useful. I tolerate you. I don’t like you.”

Ryu stared at him. “Damn. Well damn. Fuck me running. Alright. Boss. Please allow me to join the rescue mission. Please.” He said.

Ethan waved him up. “Let’s go asshole.”

Blue Technomancer CHAPTER 22

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Chapter 22

Beau heard the buzzing of his alarm clock go off on the floor beside. He reached for his bottle and brought it to his lips only to find it was empty. He sat on his futon bed and threw the empty bottle of Jack Danel’s against the wall smashing it against the white wall of his tiny closet apartment. His toy robots started waking up now he had to get up and use the bathroom.

He crawled to the bathroom, relieved himself and then washed up. When he was done he crawled back inside his bedroom and started getting dressed. He was dressed when he heard a knock on his door before it was opened with a keycard.

Two twin young men skin Supers came into his apartment. They glared at him. “Techno. Man. You drunk again?” Alex Wade asked him.

“Techno bro. This is to much.” Dexter Wade said.

Beau snorted shaking his head. “I had a bad night. I’m not drunk. I have hang over from last night. I’m ready to go. Just get my stuff ready. I got to make to make my rent and fill you two gentlemen’s pockets.” He said before he pulled himself up into his wheel chair. He smiled and reached down to carelessly roll up his futon over and then started wheeling himself to the door.

The two brothers said nothing but hurried to get a table and toys ready. Beau sighed wheeling himself to the elevator as his two friends and helpers got his table and box of merchandise. They took the stairs while he waited for the elevator to arrive.

It took a bit of time but soon enough the elevator arrived and the automatic doors opened up. A man in a dark suit and sunglasses was waiting for him. Beau wheeled himself inside nodding to the man. He spun around. “Could you hit the 1st floor.” He asked.

The man nodded silently hitting it and the doors closed. They were both silent as they went down stairs. The man in sunglasses turned to Beau. “Mr. Lucas. I take it.” He said.

“I’m not interested.” Beau said.

“I work with a particular organization that is interested in hiring you for your brilliant mind. A hundred grand a year plus benefits and an studio apartment.” He said.

Beau smiled. “Do you work for BlackWater?” He asked.

The man was silent. “Hmm. Yes. That is remarkably excellent guess on your part.” He said.

Beau shook his head. “I’ve had a lot of offers sense I’ve been let off from the government. You were the last one. I was expecting to come and a hundred thousandth a year sounds like minimum wage with today’s with the weight of inflations going. All I’m interested in is dying quietly and being left the fuck alone.” He said.

“If it’s the government having a problem with you working with us. I can assure you-” He began but stopped when Beau looked at him.

“I’ve seen you watching me for a bit of time. I also seen the fed your working with tailing me when I was trying to talk a good time girl into giving me a discount on head rub. I’m not interested in working for the government directly or indirectly anymore. No games. I just want to die quietly and be left the fuck alone. Sorry brother. I’m only interested in living quietly as much as I can. I don’t have that long on me and my days are pretty much drinking and trying not to think of anything to make to end myself. So with all due respect fuck off.” He said.

The elevator door opened and the man smiled taking off his sunglasses revealing his glowing mirrored eyes. “Good evening to you brother.” He said and walked away out of the elevtor.

Beau sighed and wheeled himself out toward the front of the apartment building on to the side walk where his two young friends had set up his booth and he wheeled himself over as his customers started coming up to his desk.

He smiled as a young girl with horn on her head came up with dollars in her hand smiling at him. He grinned at the girl. “How’s it going baby girl. I got your doll for you right here for you.” He said reaching over to a box with package on it and handed to her the box. The girl handed the money over to him and took the box with an excited giggle.

She ran over to her parents who stood off to the side with their hoodie’s up and face masks over the lower half of their faces. They nodded to him in thanks. He nodded and put the money in the box he kept the money.

Beau looked up to the clear blue skies and sun shinning down on him. He grinned.

“These are amazing. Did you make them yourself.” A charming feminine voice called to him.

Beau was half drunk but his mind focused on the genuine admiration at his skill in making the pet robots on the table. He had been sober for two months until he got the news they had put Rider in prison for two years but not before collaring his powers.

Rider was collared and put in to the general population. If he survived Beau knew his old friend wouldn’t know how to cope with the new world again once he got out.

E had called him to promise he would be watched but her words did little to ease his mind. It had taken E five damn years to find a means of halting Rider’s biological time bomb from going off.

“Excuse me. Sir.”

Beau shook himself out of thoughts of his friend and looked up at a young blond woman dressed in an leather jacket and jeans. She stared at him with sensual sky blue eyes that had a mystical glow about them. She had average looking face and easy going smile that hinted at ready sense of humor and brown chestnut hair that reminded him of his mother. She stared down at Beau with eyes that were mystical blue mirrors of concern as she studied his face.

“I sure did Darlin. I’m a straight up wonder with making things. It’s one talent I still have going for me that is of some use.” He said.

The Beauty held his gaze. “Your hero Technomancer.” She said.

It wasn’t a question it was more like a statement of fact like she already knew him and a whole lot more.

“So…are you a back sight?” He asked.

The Beauty shook her head. “No. I have employee at my company that deals in temporal patterns but I have a friend that pointed me toward you. You are a fine engineer. I could use you on my team.”

“I don’t work for the government…anymore. I mean my own business. I don’t want no trouble.” He said kindly to her.

“Pardon me. I forgot myself. I’m Jassica Remo.” She said and gave him a card.

Beau looked at the name of the company and her position. “Senior VP of Homeworld industry. Homeworld. Interesting name. What do you do at your company?” He said and then he noticed the logo on her earth world globe on her jacket.

Jessica smiled. “We consult for private parties and act as private security for clients in need of protection or otherwise.” She said.

Beau had heard of companies like her’s when he was in the service and had fought along side some of the agents of such companies. Mercenaries. Professional Mercenaries. Hired guns. Hell who was he to judge. He had done his time under contract with the government before they sent him to prison and after.

He just had one question. “Did someone send you to me?”

Jessica smiled. “Like a said a friend pointed me in your direction. We’re based in the city and Baltimore but have operations in Hawaii as well. There is room in board a decent paycheck and you’ll work with brillant ladies and gentlemen.”

“Did Rider send you or E. You have to tell me. I most know.” Beau said surprising himself by his old charm creeping back into his voice.

Jessica giggled. “You’ll have to come with me to find out. Though. I have a guess it will be surprising for you what your friend has accomplished over such a short time period.”

It had been five years sense he saw or heard from his old crew. Rider was busy doing his super hero thing and getting cartoon shows made after him and his early beginnings.

Angel.

Damn. He hoped it wasn’t her. All the same he didn’t know and he had to find out. Beau nodded. “Alright you talked me into it. I’ll go with you.”

“That’s excellent.” Jessica said with a smile. “When would be a good time for you to visit the-“

“Today would be good enough for me. I’ll travel with you. I got a bit a cash to spend on a ticket and I got nothing holding me here. I’m ready when you are.” Beau said quickly.

Blue Technomancer CHAPTER 21

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Chapter 21

Beau woke up on a stiff cool steel surface and released instantly where he was and what was about to happened. He was tied down to the table.

Men and women in white masks and white medical operation outfits. They had told them were going to need to have a look at his body to get a idea for what happened to him and if they could replicate it and made body armor for their special soldiers.

“Mr. Lucas. I am Doctor Miranda McDonnell. I will be handling your procedure this morning to find out the damage the alien did to your body and then we can figure out how to best to help you-” She paused as I began to laugh at her.

“Let’s get to it sexy. It’s been a while sense I’ve danced with death.” Beau said.

There was a moment of silence that followed that lasted more then a few minutes. The four doctors stared at him in confusion.

“Mr. Lucas. We will be making a discovery mission only in this procedure. That will last no longer or less if possible then four hours. You were told about this procedure and agreed to it?” She said.

Beau grunted. “I’m not making fuss sexy about the situation I’m in. It is what it is? I would rather you not bullshit around with me about it. I’m the property of the United States Government. They have every right to do anything to my body. Will you put me to sleep during the process?” He asked with a hopeful note in his voice.

“You have been given a pain reliever. You won’t feel any pain.” She said.

Beau doubted that shit much. Pain relievers didn’t work on him anymore. Another bullshit side effect that he had as by product of his mutation. She must be a rookie? He thought. She was about to learn the facts of life right here and now.

“Is there any possibility I get some music to listen to?” I asked.

“Yes. I did bring some music to play. I hope you like classical.” She asked.

Beau hated classical music but he nodded his head. “Play sugar.” He said.

“Echo! Play Ludwig Van Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony.” Miranda said.

Beau stared up at the fluorescent lights as he listened to the music begin. His eyes teared up as he felt the blade cut into his chest.

Tears flowed down his cheeks as he stared up at the lights. He pictured his Rider and Angel in his eyes. The music continued on and on flowing from one song to the next. The pain. The pain was intense but it was as much as the day he had first died and been reborn as mutant blue face freak. He smiled in laughter.

Two Years later…

Beau lay on the floor unresponsive as his guard kept pumping his chest to keep his heart going. He didn’t know why they bothered he didn’t much care that he was feeling his broken body finally shutting down until he heard the sound of classical music over the income and recognised it as Bach’s music.

He smiled and wondered maybe. Just maybe if he lived a little longer. Another year at the most and then he could hope to see Rider again. He remembered that E had finally been allowed to visit him and told him about her possible cure for Rider. She had it but she wasn’t there all the way perhaps he could think of something. Yes. He had to live a little longer to help Rider live.

That’s what he would do. Beau decided to live just a little longer. He had something to hold on to for now. Something he had to do. He had to work with E to get the device working to nullify the effects of his mutation. It was a way that could help him out.

Five years later….

Beau pushed his wheelchair into the Major Benjamin’s office. The Major stared at his shaky form and pale face and skinny body.

“You did a good job in helping with the new cure and collar program for your kind.” He said.

Beau said nothing he just stared at him and waited for him to be given all the platitudes. Major Benjamin smiled at him. Beau frowned at him. “Can I go back to my cell now?” He said.

Major Benjamin’s smile fell away. He straightened up as he stood over Beau. “Your military service is done Mr. Lucas. You have received an honorable discharge. When you leave this room you will be given the clothes you were given. Your penchant is still active and your time here you will be paid for and you will be shipped to the destination of the mutant district in Baltimore Maryland. Thank you for your service.” He said and saluted him.

Beau didn’t believe a word that was said but he returned the salute to Major Benjamin. The behind me opened up. I let my salute fall as I leaned back in my chair. Strong hands took hold of the handle of my chair behind me and the man started to turn me around.

“Alright. Mr. Lucas. I will be your ride out of this place. We will stop by your room and get your stuff and be on our way to Baltimore, Maryland.” He said in deceptively delightful sounding voice that gave off a positive energy and power in his tone.

That was it then it seemed. He was wheeled around and out of the room toward the room. He sighed. Five years. Five damn years of hell. He thought he was going to die in the place on the floor struggling to breath.

Beau was rolled into his room/office. A box was on his small bed. The guard behind Beau wheeled him over to the bed. Beau picked up his box putting it on his lap to see his stuff inside and short note inside.

I told you I would get you out. Don’t lose yourself brother. – E

Beau smiled as he was wheeled out of the room. He felt it then. He was broken, beaten but he still had friends and people that hadn’t forgotten about him.

Blue Technomancer CHAPTER 18

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Chapter 18

Beau and Jay traveled in to the tunnel not meeting anyone for half an hour and then darkness took them under. The next time they awoke they were in cell of cobbled stones around them. Their hands weren’t tied. Beau but their weapons and gear was gone. They wondered what the hell was going on and strange feeling or forced that kept them quiet and sitting on the floor for hours and then once again darkness took them under.

Beau and Jay sat at the feet of the giant snapping turtle who sat against his cell wall. He stared down them with rye smile on his thick full lips.

Beau frowned. “Your not human are you?” He said.

The larger humanoid turtle shook his head. “No. I was once different but like you I was changed. They call me the Sage. I am the only one of my kind down here though I expect my kind have been mutated in other parts of the human surface world. They call you the Techno wizard though Beau Lucas would be a more correct name for what you do. But, that is not your name. You are Beau Lucas. A warrior. A inventor. You came to our realm to destroy my kind.”

Beau frowned at him. “You sure about that last part.” He said.

Turtle paused and chuckled. “I see your point. I would not be your prey you would kill or hunt. But, my tribe is a mixed one. So I see a kill of one as a kill of myself.” He said.

Jay stared at him. “So you can read our thoughts?”

The turtle nodded his head slowly.

Beau studied him. “How many mutant animal humanoids are there down here?” He asked.

“Enough and it is not the question you wish to ask but I answered your unspoken question. You can not defeat us. This is our home and where we wish to be left alone to be what we are.” He said.

Beau smiled. “It’s not mind reading. You just know how to understand our thought process and predict what we might say. Have you learned how to read and taught some of the others?” He said

The Sage nodded. “Are you like me. Answers easily come to your mind comes that are reasonable. Why have you come? You want something.” He said.

Beau nodded. “Yes. I have questions about the powers and my condition.” He said.

The turtle nodded grimacing at him. “Your mind is far more valuable then your fake legs or toys. Powers. As you call them are risky at best to long health and the mind.”

“I have a daughter that can see the future.” Jay said. “What will her powers do to her mind?”

“No one can see the future.. What outcomes does she see and does she have a mate?” The mutant asked.

“She doesn’t have a mate? She’s sixteen. She can see outcomes of the people around her.” Jay said.

“The people around her or the people that are her tribe?” He asked.

Jay frowned at his question. “The people around her that matter to her.” He said.

The giant turtle looked at Beau. “You are silent. Is there something you wish to add?” He asked Beau.

“His daughter can also loan her power over to other people to see their possible outcomes.” Beau said carefully.

Jay frowned at him but was silent. The turtle nodded. “She will be in danger from consent use and will need to learn to control over her ability. Her mate will also need to learn control because he might draw to much energy from her over time.” He said pointedly to Beau.

“She doesn’t have any mate or boyfriend or anything.” Jay and looked at Beau.

The turtle was silent. The silence lasted. Jay finally looked at the Sage. “Why do you say she has a mate?” He asked.

“All mutants. Whether human mutants or mutant humanoid develop pair bonding with similar kind. It is normal and our natures gravitate to similar like minded equal to balance us. There is no exception. This is the gift the travel gave to us along with her powers.” He said.

Beau frowned at him. “Who is this travelor?” He asked.

The Sage stared at him. “The creature that came to our planet to die and granted us a new birth with her powers being imputed to us after her death.” The Sage said.

“What the hell is he talking about?” Jay asked.

Beau shook his head staring at the giant Mutant. “It doesn’t matter. What matters is Angel. Sage is this mate thing for everyone mutant like me and Jay as well for your kind?” Beau asked.

The Sage nodded. “Yes. No exceptions.” He said.

“No expections?! What about yourself?” Jay excused.

The Sage stared at him. “There is no exception.” He said then turned to Beau. “Now. Beau, what will you tell the surface leaders?”

“I’m up for any ideas that will not get me or my friends killed. I’ve seen to many outcomes already to know I need advice.” Beau said.

Jay glared at him. Beau looked back at him and Jay flinched back. “We’ll talk about this later. Right now.” He said and looked at the Sage. “You were a bit right about the reason I came to see you but you answered my real question. Thank you. You’ve saved a young girl’s life.”

The Sage was quiet and then he nodded his head. “You have chosen your course wisely this time then?” He said and a knowing voice.

Beau shrugged. “I don’t know but I can at least live with this course better then I could with the other course or courses I saw myself going down.” He said.

The Sage nodded his head head. “The normals will come for you in a few hours. Do you wish me to remove the memories you have of communicating with your brother and planning his escape.” He asked.

Beau started to nod but then he stopped. “No. I think. I’m going to need the memories for however long I survive but can you make it possible for me not to have my mind hacked by Supers with the ability.” He asked.

The Sage sighed. “It will bring you much pain to do so.” He said.

Beau smiled. “I’m used to pain. I’ll come up with a story to give the normals to keep them away from getting into the underground. I’m ready.” He said.

The giant mutant sighed and then placed his hand on Beau’s head. Beau closed his eyes and as a storm of pain and power raced through his body. He smiled taking the pain quietly as his mind began to work on a plan for what he would do when he got out of the tunnels and met the normals in the next few hours.

Blue Technomancer CHAPTER 17

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Chapter 17

Beau shook Artemus awake while the others slept in the commanders trailer. She frowned at him until he handed her something into her hand. She looked at the thick bundle of dollars her hands. He felt her freeze and stared at him.

“What you doing?” She asked.

“My number has come up. Artemus. I’m going down into the tunnels to try and clear it out if I survive I’m going to be taken by the government, experimented on and then I’ll die.” He said and stared at her.

Artemus frowned at him waiting for the joke. Beau stared at her. She shook her head. “What are you doing?” She asked him.

Beau smiled. “I like you. I like you a lot. I wanted you to know that. I need you to keep yourself safe and don’t trust the government. Always be on your guard and stay alive and have a happy life. It was a pleasure working and admiring your lovely body.” He said.

“I’m not going to have sex with you.” She said.

Beau grinned. “Take care of yourself.” He said and got up. She started to get up but he waved her back down. “Stay. Remember what I said. Take care of yourself. It’s going to be an interesting day.” He said with grin and disappeared.

Five hours later….

Beau stood outside of a tunnel entrance near Central park. He watched the time on his digital watch. When it hit 6:55 a.m. three explosion were set off in locations around the city. His cellphone went off in his pocket. He got it out and answered it.

“Are you out?” He asked.

“Yes.” Vlad said.

“This is goodbye. Take care of your family.” He said.

“It’s not to late. You can join us. I have a new plan. I could use your help. You can come with us now. You don’t have to sacrifice yourself like this.” Vlad said.

“I can’t go. I have to find out what’s in the tunnels and I need to get answers for my friend’s condition before they get me. But, something might get me in the tunnel. I was serious. Your smarter then me. They won’t stop. You have to figure out how to deal with what’s coming. After today your on your own. I left plans with Han and a present in the thumb drive to help you out with your business. E might live through this shit. Hit her up for business. I got to go.” Beau said.

“You ever wonder why Angel can loan her power of vision through you?” Vlad asked.

“I’m not special and I don’t care about the reason. I never should have survived that day the alien crashed down on us brother. I realized that now. You were right to not trust them.” Beau said and turned as he saw Angel and her father walking toward him. “Take care of your kids. Children need their fathers.” Beau said

“If you survive….I’ll have a job for you if you want it.” Vlad said.

“That’s not going to happen. Thanks for the offer. Goodbye brother.” Beau said ended the call.

Beau turned to them. “Hey…so what are you two doing here?” He asked.

“Take my Dad with you.” Angel said.

Beau folded his arms. “Angel. I thought we agreed that you should hold back on using your powers so much. You had to sleep for several hours after the last vision you gave me.” He said.

Angel grimaced. “My Dad is a hunter. He’ll find or lead you to the person or persons that can help you figure out what to do.”

Beau frowned at her. “If I take your father with me. You have to promise me something.” He said.

Angel frowned but nodded her head. “Anything name it.” She said.

Beau shook his head. “Not now. Later. When your father and I get back you have to agree to whatever I ask you.” He said.

Angel stared at him. “You need me I know what happens to you in five years.” She said.

Beau stared at her. “It’s not your job to protect me. Promise me or I walk in there alone.” He said.

“Who were you talking to?” Angel asked.

“My brother. He’s leaving the city before the government comes in. I was wishing him luck with his new business venture.” Beau said.

“I promise.” She said finally after several minutes of silence.

Beau studied her face. “That easy. You shouldn’t try to trick me. I’ve played the time travel game. I planned to win.”

Angel smiled. It was feminine and showed her budding maturity. “I’ll see you later Beau. Take care of my Dad.” She said before turning walking away.

Beau turned his back on her to avoid looking at her any longer. “I need to find someone in there to help me figure out what’s wrong with Angel.” He said.

“Wait. What’s wrong with my daughter?” Jay said.

“She’s dying. Her powers are killing her. I need you to find me someone in there that can us how to stop it.” Beau said.

“How do you know any of this? Your a….E told you didn’t she.” She said.

“Yes and no. Another boy like Angel told me what was wrong with Angel and about a person in the tunnel that might be able to help her. I asked E if it was true about Angel’s sickness. She told me it was true.” I said.

Jay stepped forward without a word and started inside.

Blue Technomancer CHAPTER 9

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Chapter 9

President Helen Bender sat in the oval office going over the reports from New York City. The joint chiefs sat to her right and left quietly letting her remove the reports on the mutants that were in charge of safe guarding the remaining affected people.

Helen slapped down one of the folders that was open to the picture of blue haired man in black hoodie. The name of Captain Beau Lucas. “He’s the only one I want out of the bunch. The rest can be terminated or sent to the new Supers military division for all I care.” She said.

Cor. Eric Briggs turned toward her with a careful expression. “Madam President. Rider and Doctor Eva Jones, Vlad are also top picks we can use for the new Supers divisions. Captain Lucas might be a problem we may want to take care of before we can secure the city and the mutants as assets for military service.”

President Bender folded her arms across her chest and sat back in her seat. “How much of a problem? Be direct. If the analysis report on what Lucas can possible do with weapon and defense engineering is actuate-”

Eric nodded his head. “It is. Madam President. Completely detailed and researched. He’s a modern day Tesla wizard to put it in plain terms.”

President Bender nodded her head. “Good. So what’s the need of a termination of a valuable asset. What’s left of the UK and the European Federation have secured themselves a ready supply of assets for combat and civilian use. But, none of them have a possible asset like Lucas. I want him. The stable mutants that aren’t insane don’t matter or can be shipped out to the Supers stable. But, I see you still have an objection Eric. So give it to me straight. What don’t you like about him?”

Eric didn’t smile but his stare was direct. “Tesla was an idealist with a genius mind. Lucas is a one of kind Super not yet documented in the world. He might be the only one of his own kind. We don’t know if we can control him or will he end up being a liability we have to neutralize down the road. The times are uncertain with the country and the military all going through a reconstruction period.”

President Bender shook her head. “What am I missing that wasn’t in the files?” She said.

Eric held up an Android tablet. “This is something I want you to see.” He said and then bent down setting it on the floor.

President Bender frowned between him and the tablet. “Eric what the hell are you doing?” She asked.

– Voice ID confirmed begin message – A voice from the tablet said.

Suddenly a full body virtual image of Beau Lucas dressed in a hoodie, jeans and sneakers standing before her. “Hello, President Bender. I’m Captain Beau Lucas one of the commanders left protecting the innocent Americans still held up in New York. I designed this device to get into communication with you. All we’re asking is for a chance to be let back into society again and away out of the city before winter sets in the coming near months. Our leader is Jack Rider. Please get in contact with him and his team for us to begin talk. I have enclosed information and blue prints for technical advances I and my team have done. I’m sending this to you as a means of good faith and the hope that you will allow us a way out of the state of life in which New York City has become. We are willing to work with you and talk of how we can benefit you. I’m sure you’ve gathered much information on us from the droids you’ve launched around the city and images you’ve taken. We’ll await your call. Have a good day.” He said and message and image of Beau was gone.

Eric stared at President Bender. “What do you think?” He said.

President Bender pointed at the tablet. “I want everything he sent given to our people and begin the work on it. How did he get the tablet out to us?” She asked.

Eric smiled. “He used one of the drones we sent inside the city as messenger pidgin. He also modified it slightly to make it more improved for flight and none detection.” He said.

President Bender grimaced waving him away. “The plan is still the same. I want him and him only. Tell the freaks whatever bullshit they want to hear and arrange to make it happen but we’re not taking all of those freaks out of that hell hole. Only a handful and make sure it is clear that the second he gets out Lucas is coming to work for us on a permanent basis.” She said.

Eric stared at her. “President-” He began but President Bender held up her hand forestalling any attempts he would have made to argue with her.

“Make it happen like I said. We can not allow the most dangerous monsters out of that place. After we get Beau and few of his people out we’re going to close that place off for as long as it takes for whoever demon that monster created to die off during the winter or through starvation. Get it done or I’ll find someone to get done for me.” She said.

Eric gave her nod. “Okay. I’ll make it happen.” He said. “What about the other selections you have in your mind?” He asked.

“I already have them on board. We’ll use them until we don’t need them or they prove to be to dangerous to deal with. I’m going to need more information on the children and training camps on their progress going so far for the super soldiers division.” She said.

Eric nodded sitting back in his seat. “The peace keeper program is going very well. Our instructors are doing well and producing soldiers ready for combat in the coming months against the Cabal. We just need more soldiers to process the programming better.” He said.

President Bender smiled “You’ll get your freak soldiers Eric. I’m going to see to that.” She said.

Blue Technomancer CHAPTER 7

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Chapter 7

Beau stared at Jackie in confusion. His heart started beating against his chest as he stared at the one person he loved the most in the world as she stared at him like he was a monster. “Jackie. It’s me. I know I look different but I’m still me.” He said.

“I don’t know who the fuck you are. Don’t touch me, freak. FUCKER! You lied to me. Your not Beau. Your just a fucking freak!” Jackie screamed at him and spat in his face.

Beau stared at her in shocked awe. He couldn’t believe what was happening. It was the second shocker to his life. “I’m Beau Lucas. Your high-school sweetheart. We grew up together in Texas. We lost our virginity together in the backseat of my Daddy’s pickup truck on my 16th birthday. Jackie. It’s me.” He said.

Jackie shook her head. “No. Beau is dead. I watched him die in my arms. He was speared with a steel bar. Get the fuck away from me you lunatic freak.” She said.

Beau tried to hold her but she clawed his face with her nails. She screamed at the pain holding her own hand. She glared at him.

“Your not Beau. Your just some crazy lunatic pretending to be him. He’s dead. I saw him die with my own eyes.” She said.

Beau turned to Rider. The other man stared back at him before turning to Jackie. “My friend is a little sad about losing his fiancée. You kind ah look like her. Sorry if he scared you. She died in his arms too. You can go now.” He said.

Jackie softened looking at Rider’s handsome face and believed him. Beau turned his back on them.

“Oh. Well. I can understand but-” Jackie said and Beau could hear that intimate purr to her voice that let him know with shock that she wanted to have sex with Rider then and there.

“You can leave now.” Rider said in cold voice devoid of any warmth now. “I’m sure you have a family to get to and your boyfriend’s family will want to hear about what happened to him?” Rider said dismissing her.

Beau said nothing. If he couldn’t convince Jackie he was who he was there was no way in hell his family would believe him. He had known Jackie all his life. Just like that he knew. He could never go home again. It was over for him.

“Oh. Yeah. Thank you all for rescuing us. What’s your name by the way?” Jackie said.

Beau felt sick hearing rising sexual interest in her voice directed at Rider. She was totally ignoring Beau completely like he was a strange or another fixture in the room like a lamp or table.

“My name is Rider. Your free to leave. Please go home to your people. Try your best to get out of the city it isn’t safe right now for people like you. My two friends will guide you out and protect you until you get back to your people. Goodbye.” He said.

“The fuck we will and we ain’t your friends asshole. Yo. Blue Techno wizard fuckhead.” Eddie cut in. “Get this fucking collar off my friend. A deal is a deal.” He said.

Beau snapped his fingers and the collar fell off easily from around Vince’s neck. “You take the ladies out to safety I’ll do right by you. The Doctor is in central park. I hear they came to harm on your watch I’ll be on your ass. You get me?” He said.

“Fuck. All you black dudes are all the same. Alright. Come on Vince.” Eddie said.

“Oh. Thank you. I’m sorry about hurting your friend. I-” Jackie said but she paused saying nothing. Beau looked at Rider to see a look of disgust on his face.

“Goodbye Miss Daniels.” Rider said dismissing her.

“Goodbye then. Thank you for rescuing us.” Jackie said.

Jackie started walking away following Eddie and Vince. Beau didn’t turn to watch her go. Rider came up beside him and stood with him looking at the city as most of it was still on fire and they heard gun shots and screams.

“I got some news from Doctor E. She did some tests on me. She says I have a couple more years until my body explodes from the alien energy. I don’t know how long it will take before the army and government to get shit back to normal. I figure I will keep going until they take their sweet time to getting to it.” He said in a tone that carried little emotion about it.

Beau nodded. “You got some time to keep your promise to your brother. She say anything about me?”

“Your condition is stable but she’s worried about the psychological effects this shit will have for you long term. I have a condo and some money in a safe. It’s yours when I go. Sorry I can’t be much help to you otherwise. You helped me out greatly I appreciate it.” He said.

“She didn’t recognize me. I told her everything I knew about her. She just acted and looked at me like I was a freak.” Beau said staring at nothing now as he felt a coldness creep up inside of his body. His soul felt scared and he was broken now completely.

“The same way she looked at me.” Rider said.

Beau turned to glare at Rider only to see him looking at his scared glowing forearms in disgust.

“She wanted to fuck you, Rider. She would have let you fuck her if you had been alone.” Beau said angrily.

“She knew who you were Beau.” Rider said softly.

“What?” Beau said acting like he didn’t hear him.

“I heard her lie about seeing you die. I saw her shaking her head and acting like she couldn’t hear you telling her facts only you could know. She knew. She just pretended not to understand or hear you. She looked at you the same way she was looking at me.” He said looking up at Beau. “She was just using me to ignore what happened to you and the fact she ran away leaving you to fucking die like the coward she is. I’ve seen that look on people’s faces enough over for the last few days to know rejection. No matter how many I’ve saved it don’t matter. I’m still a freak to them. It’s only lucky I’m not doing this job for them.” Rider said.

Beau stared back at his glowing eyes and scared face. He saw a broken man haunted by the nightmare of the hell he was still enduring. Barely. Only one thing could pull him on and not think of the pain of loss and knowledge he had a ticking time bomb in his body. Rider had no family or future only one thing could keep him going. A promise and a will to keep on fighting until you had nothing left.

Beau understood now. Rider was a man that lost everything and he couldn’t see a way forward or had a future. All he had was a fight and a promise to keep. Beau he was maybe going to live past this shit and go on or die in a few hours. He looked out over the city hearing cries for help and fires burning. It was a war before him. He was a warrior.

“Let’s get to work, brother. We can sleep when we’re dead.” Beau said turning up his hoodie and turning his gaze to the city with one flick of his wrist his weapons came to his hands.

Rider snapped out of his own pain and looked out over the city. “Your right. Fuck sleep. We got a job to finish.”