Part Twenty-Six

Eve: *lands bike on opposite side of the ship* Ok, George. There they are! *points*

George: *lands next to Eve* Aye, I see them. *gets off the bike and draws sword, then runs toward Cryptic*

Eve: *follows George with sword drawn*

George: *calls to Misty as he's running* Who's the girl he's talking to?

***

Hanna: *looks at Cryptic with violet-colored uncertain eyes* *thinks* He's lying to me. Everything he says is a LIE! No one can help me. He doesn't care. He will tell me anything he has to just to get me to come quietly. Then the CS will do whatever they want... including possibly destroying Earth...but they guard the entrance to the portal... the only other way to rescue Lui. If I go with him...I may find a way to rescue Lui without endangering the others. *looks down and says quietly* ...I'll go...

Cryptic: That's a good dear. Now, come with me. *holds out his hand for Hanna*

***

DJ: *looks over toward Hanna and Cryptic with wide eyes* WHAT?! We can't just...

EDJ: Forget it. She can make up her own mind, just like I did. I'm done with her after this.

DJ: You...IUL! We can't leave her to Cryptic! I don't care what she was going to do. We have to look out for each other.

EDJ: Fine, you go rescue her. She's just going to take Lui and leave us if we rescue her!


***

Eve: That's Hanna! And we CAN'T let her go with him! *runs* CRYPTIC! Leave her alone, NOW! *slashes sword at Cryptic*


Hanna: *quickly stands and creates a wall of ice so fast that Eve's torso gets embedded in the ice mid-swing*

Eve: *is hit so hard with the sudden wall of ice that she is knocked unconscious* HA-- *passes out*

Hanna: *glares at Eve with blue eyes and whispers* Don't do anything we'll both regret. *turns to Cryptic* Call off the attack. I'll go with you. Just...leave them...please.

Cryptic: Very well, my young ice princess. *signals for the pirates to leave, then turns to Eve’s prone form* Ah, so nice of you to drop in, my dear. I hope you didn't have any bad intent with that attack of yours. *draws sword and slashes at Eve's neck*



George: Cryptic! NO! *dives in front of Eve, taking the blow instead* *falls to the ground, mortally wounded* L...lady Eve...I'm sorry.... *dies*



Cryptic: Well then. Two birds, one stone, it seems. *slowly wipes his sword and prepares it for another attempt* Anyone else?

Hanna: I asked you to leave them! *glances at George then back to Cryptic* No more death! I don't want anyone else getting hurt.

Cryptic: *shrugs* He deserved it after that. But for your sake, I'll leave Eve here. Ironic, she's the one that led him into his sin against me. Just like in the stories they're trying to feed you. *holds out hand* Now, shall we?

Hanna: *looks back at Eve with guilt* Sorry. *raises hand and hesitates* ...Lui...this is for Lui... *takes a deep breath and takes Cryptic's hand* L-let's just go...

***

DJ: *stares in shock as the events on the cruiser unfold* Hanna....

EDJ: Told you. Shall we just go get Lui ourselves then?

DJ: I...I don't believe it. Why?

EDJ: And we tried so hard...I thought she was almost there. *looks up* Why did you let this happen?! *quietly* Maybe she IS a lost cause...

DJ: Always hope, Iul. Always. You did your part, now we have to leave it. But I guess you're right, staying here isn't going to help Lui OR Hanna. Let's go before anything else happens.

EDJ: *walks into the control room below the ship's deck and turns it toward La'Esk*

DJ: *sits down on the deck* Hanna...I don't believe what EDJ says. There must be some reason you're going with Cryptic. Don't worry, we'll take care of our own end, you deal with what you have to. Not even evil Hanna can overcome your love for Lui...you'll be ok. *softly* Always. Always hope.

***

Cryptic: *leads Hanna to a two-seat bike and flies off back to the Orca* Considering that DJ was probably released by those bumbling traitors, it's good that Hanna's coming without a fight.

Hanna: *watches the ships* It's far better for my friends if I stay away from them. Whatever happens now, I cannot let her out...I will not let her out. *shivers*...none of this is right... *sigh*

Cryptic: *lands the bike and helps Hanna off* Well then, allow me to lead you to your quarters. You'll be staying in the guest suite until arrival. Computer, fresh food and clothes, a bed, pretty much anything you could ask for.

Hanna: T-thanks... Royalty treatment? Heh, reminds me of the good old days when things weren't so complicated. *sigh* ...Cryptic... *presses lips together in thought before continuing* ...do you know what the CS is going to do with Lui ... my...uh... the one in the mirror...?

Cryptic: Ah, the one you love. Such a sad thing that you would be torn apart that way.

Hanna: *face reddens considerably*

Cryptic: I'm a true admirer of love, although I've never truly experienced it. Blame that on the CS and their cruel experiments if you desire. It's the same thing that happened to EDJ, only mine was more advanced and brutal. But I'm sure you find all this rather off subject. To answer your question, no I don't know what their plans are. I'm just the messenger slash delivery man, if you understand where I'm coming from.


Hanna: *clenches fist* I don't need your sympathy or your long explanations as to why you're as sickly cunning as you are. I'm only coming to protect the one I- *catches self* ONES I love... *glares* Don't ridicule me.

Cryptic: Ah, a sore spot that one is. Don't worry, I would never think of judging you upon that. Like I said, I'm just the delivery man... after this, I'm free from their service. I'm glad you actually have ones to love though. Perhaps it's just fate that I have no one. I care not. Enjoy your stay on the Orca. *leaves Hanna*

Hanna: *stunned expression* *relaxes a little* ...he is... unnerving... *goes to room and locks door behind her* Hmm... not that that will really stop anyone on this ship, but maybe that will preserve my sanity for a bit longer. *looks around nicely furnished room* ...Not bad... *picks up an apple off a tray of fruit on a nearby table and takes a bite*
*strolls over to closet and goes through the clothes on one side* Too big, too small, too bright, not my style, can't tell what that is, reminds me of Kandi, is that a leotard?! Ugh...too weird... *checks other side and nearly jumps back in shock* ...whoa... Black dresses, shorts,
gloves, boots, and white belts... *narrows eyes* Did they...? *takes another bite of the apple and slowly walks back to table* Even though I made the choice to go willingly to the CS, I only came to free Lui and keep everyone else from getting killed by pirates. Cryptic apparently doesn't see me as too much of a threat right now, but how will the CS react? I highly doubt they will be as carefree. *glares at fruit tray* This was a suicide mission from the start... I'm walking right into their hands. *drops the apple and flings the silver fruit platter off the table in frustration, sending fruit all over the floor* *sits against wall* Once they get a hold of me, it's over. But I made my choice, there is no going back. *hugs knees and closes eyes* Hopeless...

*scene switch*

*Lui is in a vast field with beautiful green grass and wildflowers, but is chained to a large metal pole standing in the middle of the field*

Lui: Hanna....I'm so sorry for everything. It's my fault you and the others are in this mess. I hope you're all ok.

*as he's talking to himself, a man appears out of a portal*



Man: Oh the melodrama...true love separated by fate. I'm afraid your hopes are unfounded. As we speak, Hanna is being delivered to us by an old friend of yours. She took the bait completely...now, it's just a matter of time before the world is ours! Nothing can stop us with the kind of power we will control.

Lui: No... it can't be! Hanna...



Man: Of course, it wouldn't be right if we used her without letting her see you one last time. After that, your usefulness will be fully realized.

Lui: You monster!



Man: Sticks and stones.

Lui: Hanna's much too strong for the likes of you to take her...you just wait and see. What about the others?


Man: Mostly escaped, but they shall be dealt with in time, I can assure you that. They won't even make it to the Clocktower.


Lui: That's what you think. How many times have they escaped you already?


Man: Faulty circumstances, and sheer luck. They won't get away again, I swear it upon my name.


Lui: And that is?


Man: Ultimasi. Not that it matters...


Lui: I just want to know it so I can retell the tale of your defeat after...your defeat.


Ultimasi: You keep dreaming, boy. It won't make a difference after a few hours. Hahaha! *disappears back into the portal*


Lui: Hmmm.....

*scene switch*

Hanna: *whispers* ...Lui... I hope you’re alright...

*knock is heard on door*


Voice: Priso-err... Miss... Hanna...?


Hanna: Go AWAY!



*rattling is heard as the door opens and a couple guards walk in*



Hanna: Don’t just go barging into my room! What do you want?!


Guard: We heard some kind of noise and were ordered to check on you.


Hanna: I don’t care if you thought I was dying, LEAVE ME ALONE! *throws an orange at guard*


Guard: *catches the orange in one hand* We were ordered not to harm you, though perhaps some discipline would remind you to be more courteous to your hosts.


Hanna: *jumps to feet and shoves the guard against wall, bringing the sword to his throat* I am here of my own free will, but that does not mean I’m not being held captive.


Guard: Hah, it’s obvious you have no plans to give in. What is it you want from the CS?



Hanna: Why do you care?!



Guard: Must be something of great value for you to give yourself up like this, yet the way you’re struggling would make me think otherwise...



Hanna: *glares* I’m willing to go as far as I have to, to accomplish my task. If that includes killing you now, so be it!


Guard: *grins evilly* Weak. *starts laughing* If you really wanted to kill me, you would have done so already.


Hanna: *eyes briefly flash red* Get. Out. *squeezes eyes shut and screams* GET OUT!! *a truckload of snow materializes and shoves the CS guards out of the room. The door slams shut and is instantly covered by a thick sheet of ice* I... I need to get out of here... *rushes to the other side of the room and jumps through open porthole*



Guard: *climbs out of snowdrift outside Hanna’s door and brushes self off*



Second guard: Master Cryptic will not be pleased...



Guard: Hah! Pleased? The only emotion he knows is apathy. He won’t care. Besides, I was only toying with her. Wouldn’t hurt to see why the CS wants her so badly.



Second Guard: It’s not our place to question.



Guard: *waves a dismissive hand* Do the Elite Guard get their positions by only doing as they’re told? *shrugs* I’ve had my fun. As long as she doesn’t do anything foolish, we’re fine.




Hanna: *flies in the direction opposite of the Orca* If I can just make it back to the others, there’s still a chance we can save Lui. Eve was able to get DJ off the... *stops* ...that’s right... he saw you leave with Cryptic... and who knows what’s going through EDJ’s head after the way you treated him. *clutches head* STOP IT! Haven’t you caused them enough pain? *looks back at the Orca*

*scene switch*

*a few hours later, just as the sun is starting to rise*



DJ: *gets up from one of the cabins below deck and looks around* My phone should be charged now, at least I can contact somebody back at the academy and let them know I'm alright. *walks over to the table and picks up his phone* Ooh, new voicemail. *opens inbox*



Automated voice: You have...two new messages. To hear your messa...



DJ: *ignores the rest of the recording and presses the button to hear the voicemail*



Lui: DJ, it's me. They said you and Hanna were on the way here, and they couldn't let that happen the way it is. I'm supposed to tell you to turn yourself in, or they...they'll kill me... *sniffle* They have a bunch of soldiers waiting for you at the shore...they know you're in a pirate boat and it's just you and EDJ. They're giving you two hours. DJ...don't do it! *a slap is heard and then Lui and one of the guards wrestling for the phone drowns out part of Lui's message* *Lui shouts into the phone as he's losing control of it* Tell Hanna I love...



Automated voice: End of message. To hear thi...



DJ: *hangs the phone up and stares at the wall* Lui...I have to do something...but, I...I..*slams fists into the table, making his stuff jump off it a couple inches* *sigh* I have to tell EDJ...they don't want him, just me. Maybe there's a chance... *gets all of his things organized and ready to go, then walks over to the control room* EDJ?



EDJ: Yeah? We're almost to shore, just a couple miles out.



DJ: Good. I got a message on my phone...



EDJ: Wow, I'm so happy for you... *rolls eyes*



DJ: It was from Lui...they're waiting for us at the shore and if I don't give myself up in two hours, they'll kill him.



EDJ: ....that's not good news at all...



DJ: Yeah, no kidding. But we don't really have much choice.



EDJ: But if Hanna's already with them, and we give ourselves up, how are we possibly going to get Lui out?



DJ: That's the thing, they only asked for me. You *points at EDJ*, aren't part of the bargain. You need to get off the ship before we land and get ahead of us somehow. I'll go along with them as long as it takes, ok?



EDJ: *sigh* I do love a good challenge in the morning. You sure this is going to work?



DJ: Like I said, do we really have any other options?

*scene switch*

Cryptic: *wakes up refreshed and rejuvenated* I love a good night out at sea, if only there weren't all these...distractions, I suppose, that need dealing with first. *scowls* Ugh, I'd better get an update on Hanna, before I forget. *calls the guards over* How's our passenger?



Guard: You mean icicle breath down there, sir? Ornery as usual, but still mostly cooperative last time I checked.


Cryptic: And that was...how long ago again?



Second Guard: *checks watch* Half an hour, sir.



Cryptic: Fine, fine. You may go. See to it that she's in proper condition upon arrival, please.



Guard: Yes, Master Cryptic. *both guards exit*



Cryptic: Such a bother. However, the time of my freedom from this is near at hand, just to deliver the cargo as promised. *walks over to his private chambers and sits down at the organ* Ah, the only thing I can say I ever came close to loving. *starts playing softly* And the CS had to go and wreck all that! *the music picks up with feverish intensity, until it can be heard even from outside the ship* Aaaghh! You'll pay for your dealings, fools! *picks up a glass vial sitting on the organ and throws it against the door*

Hanna: *opens door and looks at Cryptic* Bad timing? I suppose now wouldn't be the best time to tell you the CS has blockheads for guards. Though you probably already knew that.

Cryptic: *whirls around* What are you doing in here? Ugh, never mind. I'm sorry you probably heard that. I don't have time to go into it all. Are you sure you're still going forward with this? Not that there's a lot of choice in the matter, but still. I'm not COMPLETELY insensitive, you know.

Hanna: *folds arms* I couldn't possibly care less. I did have some... second thoughts about my decision. Though I can assure you, it will not happen again. *glances at the organ* You play well. Though maybe a lower key would have suited you better... that and you ended it rather harshly. *shrugs indifferently* Personal opinion.

Cryptic: *nods* I'll keep that in mind for the next time. I suspect that the next tune will be something a tad more lighthearted, if the CS keeps up their end of the bargain. I'm sorry you had to be involved this way. Do let me know if there's anything I can do to help. *smiles sincerely* Now, we'll be arriving shortly, so I suppose you should make any final preparations now.

Hanna: *narrows eyes* I'm handing myself over to the enemy. What do you expect me to prepare, a will? *shakes head* You only know as much as they need you to know. You don't know their plans, so there is really no way you can help.

Cryptic: I was thinking more along the lines of clothing, food, email. I can guarantee that you'll find me to be much more lenient than the CS ever will be, so I suggest you take advantage of what little freedom you have left. If you have nothing further to say at this time, I would kindly ask you to leave me to gather my thoughts for the duration of the voyage. But before you go, I have something I'd like to give you. *turns and walks over to a drawer underneath the organ*

Hanna: *tentatively steps closer* It's not going to render me unconscious or anything, is it? I somewhat doubt it will, but one can never know. Despite your feigned change of heart, you certainly would have taken me to the CS by force if necessary

Cryptic: *laughs* Nothing of the sort. *opens the drawer and pulls out a long, narrow box* *closes the drawer and hands the box to Hanna and opens it, revealing a pearl necklace* Just a small gift, hope you like it.

Hanna: Um...thanks. I guess... *studies pearls closely* ... familiar... *shakes head and skeptically looks back at Cryptic* Why?

Cryptic: You remind me of one of the only memories I have from before...well, you know of what I allude. Truth be told, I highly doubt they would actually let me go free after I deliver you. They would probably just as soon kill me the moment you're in their hands. I just thought it would be...mutually advantageous...for us to watch each other's backs.

Hanna: *sigh* You're probably right, as much as I hate to admit it. Just so you know, you haven't gained my trust by any stretch of the imagination... but you have my respect... to a degree.

Cryptic: Nor would I expect to gain your trust that easily. About the necklace now, as you could expect, it's not just any necklace. The middle pearl has a communication device you can use to contact any of your friends, as well as myself. The others are actually miniscule anti-personnel explosives that break off the chain by squeezing the sides in. They will probably run you through a gauntlet of various detectors, but I believe that the necklace will get through all of them with no problems.

Hanna: *stares at the pearls* ...any of my friends... What about...? ... never mind. *closes box* Thank you, Cryptic. That's very...um... decent of you. *looks back at door* I suppose you want me to leave now, huh?

Cryptic: Unless you have anything else you had wanted to say or ask. Thank you for your time.

Hanna: Heh, time is a fickle substance. Which reminds me, how much longer is this three-hour tour going to be? Can't exactly say I'm enjoying the wait, no offense.

Cryptic: *looks out the window at the rising sun* I would expect us to be arriving within the half hour. If you have anything else that needs taking care of, I would do it now.

Hanna: Fair enough. *thoughtfully looks at Cryptic* Maybe he isn't as bad as I first thought. Maybe he... No. He hasn't changed. He's still the enemy, MY enemy. He's only looking out for himself, not unlike her... *glances at organ* You can resume playing that. I'm sure it's far more productive than throwing stuff at helpless doors. *walks out of the room and closes door behind her*

Cryptic: That seemed to go well enough. *opens the window and lets the sea breeze float into the cabin* Now the hardest thing left on the agenda is getting Hanna in and myself out, both preferably alive. *sigh* If I could go back and do things again...

*scene switch*

Eve: *wakes up with splitting headache and a shooting pain from the waist down to her knee* ugh.. wha-what happened... *holds her head and tries to stand* Whoa! *starts to fall and grabs the deck rail* Ugh... I need meds...

*tries to walk down the stairs, grabbing her right side with her left hand and holding the stair rail with her right hand* *limps down the stairs and down the hallway and finally reaches the medical office*

Ok... now then... *looks around for some anesthesia, but finds it all missing* hhhmmm... Man, if only Misty were here with those happy pills... Pfft, if only Misty were here period. *looks for anything that might help* Well, these crutches will have to do for now. *uses the crutches and reaches the deck*

Now what? I guess I should go look for anyone else who might be able to help... *starts to go around the deck, wincing at the pain, but trying to ignore it* I'll try the other end of the deck.

*starts to walk to the other side when she notices Brady sitting on a bench staring at the water* Oh, good! *she hobbles over to Brady* Hey, you wouldn't happen to know how to drive this thing, would you?

Brady: *doesn't look up* You're on your own. I've got enough of my own problems to take care of, thanks

Eve: *is unsure of what to say* Yeah... bu-but, aren't you supposed to protect Hanna or something like that? You can't do that if you're just sitting here! I'm an evil other, and even I know you can't protect something just by sitting here. *leans against deck's railing* From what I've heard, a lot is at stake here...

Brady: *slowly stands up and glares at Eve* You THINK?! The lives of this very world, as well as countless others, are at stake here! Hanna's gone, DJ's gone, Vix's gone, and I'm helpless to do anything about it! I should have done something during the confrontation last night, but I...I malfunctioned. Orpheus was right, I'm a complete defect. Now, what do you want?

Eve: *raises eyebrow* Ok, you are making noooo sense whatsoever. If all these worlds are at stake... pray tell, why are you just sitting here doing nothing about it? Just because you malfunctioned, doesn't mean you should get this upset about it! Everyone makes mistakes. You realized you have, now get over it. Anyway, I need you to help me steer this ship to La'Esk. *starts to walk to control room*

*turns around* By the way, one malfunction doesn't make a complete defect. *starts walking again*

Brady: *sits back down again* Whatever. I'm deteriorating far too fast to be of much more use, even to these fool heroes. *sighs and stands up again* Wait. I'll help you, but I can't guarantee anything.

Eve: *stops and waits for Brady to catch up* Ok. As long as you try, that's all I ask. *walks into control and sits down* *closes eyes and breathes deep* Ok... *opens eyes* Now then, here's the map, and here's the controls, but I have no idea how to work any of it.

Brady: And you got this far...how again?

Eve: Umm... mainly by hobbling. Twasn't easy, I am here to tell you.



Brady: It's simple, really. *sits down next to Eve and starts operating the ship* We're going to La'Esk. You're sure that's where you need to be? There's seriously nothing but trouble and more trouble there.

Eve: Yes, that's where we need to go. See? *points to map* If you go to La'Esk, you can get to this Clocktower that y'all need to get to for some reason a lot faster this way. If you wanted to go a different way, it would take an extra 4-6 days, depending on traffic.

Brady: Hanna's...friend...and DJ's other, Lui, is up there with the Clockwork Syndicate against his will. They're using him as bait to get the both of them together so they can be used as a weapon powerful enough to destroy entire worlds. I'm going to set this thing to autopilot, and then I'm going to go find something to do for the remaining few hours. I suggest you take that time to decide whether or not you really want to continue on this path.

Eve: *watches Brady leave the room* *sits there and tries to decide what to do* I guess I'll walk back to my room and see if my equipment is still there.
*walks back to room and sits on bed* I guess I should put all this away. *starts to pack*

*scene switch*

Hanna: *walks back to room, moving the half-melted snow as she enters* *opens box and looks at pearls again* Maybe I should try contacting Brady. It wasn't fair for me to leave like that without telling him... even if he probably already knew it would happen... or did he? Ugh, time travel is so confusing. Even so, he's not going to be happy about this... *takes pearls out of box and closely inspects them* Cryptic can't be trusted, but that doesn't mean he's lying. Just because the last pearls I wore were restrainers... *attaches pearls around neck* Not that it matter this late in the game, can't get much worse than it already is.


*scene switch*

DJ: *an hour later* Ok, time for you to disappear. Make it convincing so they don't kill both Lui and me right off, ok?



EDJ: Yeah, yeah. You know how I love a nice swim in the morning. You're going to owe me big time if we pull this off.



DJ: Assuming neither of us dies, yes. We've been there before though, don't worry too much.


EDJ: Yup. Hey, good luck, alright?


DJ: Thanks. You too. For Lui!



EDJ: Yeah, sure. *climbs over the back side of the ship and dives into the dark water a few hundred yards off-shore*



DJ: *sighs* Here we go. *pilots the ship the rest of the way to shore and allows the CS to board*



Officer: Ah, so nice of you to join us. I've heard so much about you.



DJ: Likewise.


Officer: *stops* Umm...sure... *shudders* Guards! Take him to the transport, and see to it that this ship is inspected immediately.


Guard: Sir, yes sir! *a pair of guards in full body armor come and take DJ to an escort vehicle*



Officer: *waves* Have a nice trip! Your stay, however, not so much...ha...haha...hahahaha!!

***

EDJ: *climbs out of the water after the CS escorts have taken DJ away* Oh goody, now I get to follow on foot. *starts jogging in the same direction as the vehicle tracks...toward the Clocktower* DJ, I'm starting after you now. Should be enough distance between us. Meet you at the Clocktower...just hang in there, ok?



DJ: Y=Yeah, you too. I hope you kept up with that distance running...

*scene switch*

*Ace, Naomi, Misty, and Alzymus left the plains some time ago and are travelling through a large rock field, strewn with huge boulders wobbling precariously on top of other rocks*


Ace: This really is slow going, you guys. Naomi's not doing too well, and I could use a rest myself. You two, Misty and Alzymus, keep heading toward the docks and we'll catch up with you in a few minutes.


Alzymus: Well, alright. Misty, is that alright with you?

Misty: *shrugs* Sure. Y'all try to catch up as soon as you can.

Ace: Yeah, yeah.



Alzymus: Ok, let's go.

*Misty and Alzymus walk ahead, leaving Ace and Naomi behind*



Ace: Finally. I thought I'd never get the chance.

Naomi: Never get the chance... to do what? I have suspected Ace had a thing for me, and we haven't been by ourselves for a long time... (OO) What if he's going to propose?! *thinks* I'll just act like I don't notice and see what happens… I thought we'd never get a rest... *sits on rock*

Ace: *sits down next to Naomi* Y'know, we haven't been able to be by ourselves in forever. I've been waiting to do this a long time. *reaches into his pocket and pulls out a little black box, then hands it to Naomi*

Naomi: *grabs box and opens it to see ring* *tries to find words* Ace... I... I don't know what to say...

Ace: *stands up* And to be honest, I could care less what you say. *draws sword* Time to die, you rebel! *twirls behind Naomi and slashes her neck open* Bye, Naomi. I'll make sure the Syndicate takes good care of your pathetic little rebellion. *watches as
Naomi crumples to the ground, then walks off in the opposite direction of Alzymus and Misty*

*scene switch*



*while Ace is taking care of Naomi*



Misty: So, Alzymus, now that you're not trying to get a hold of Zione, why are you still helping us?

Alzymus: That's part of the problem...I AM still trying to get a hold of Zione. He just happens to be going to the same place you are. I probably should have told you all this a while ago. I have reason to believe he's going to join the Clockwork Syndicate...and I can't let that happen.

Misty: *raises eyebrows* Wow, the CS is the happening place nowadays...

How do you plan on stopping him?

Alzymus: Well, my plan right now was to work with you and your friends to take them down, catching Zione in the process. If that's all right with you guys. Seems we have a common enemy now. How about you? Why have you been helping Hanna and DJ?

Misty: *shrugs* Fine with me. Seems the more people we have, the better anyway. Well, ever since I had an... accident with my other, I've helped people with their others. I saw Hanna and DJ needed help, so I teleported to Everest to help them. I never imagined it would get this complicated.

Alzymus: *raises eyebrows* You have an other too? Do you mind talking about that accident? It's fine if you don't...I know how the issue can be for some people.

Misty: *nods* Yes, I do indeed have an other, Eve. She... well... *stares into space for a few seconds* She killed my sister. After that, I brought her here, just so that she can't hurt anyone else. So far, it seems to be working. Something about Thorae seems to change her. I'm not sure what it is though. But ever since then, I've tried to help people with their others. Makes for a lot of traveling, but *shrugs* tis ok.

Alzymus: Your...sister? *blinks* I'm sorry to hear about that. You probably didn't know this, but Tellians are unable to have others. We don't have any of the problems concerning them that you do.

Misty: Thanks...

*nods* I did not know that... *looks and sees the docks* Oh, we are here. *turns in circles* I don't see Ace and Naomi anywhere... *shrugs* ok well *turns to Alzymus* Lead the way.

Alzymus: Right. *points to the ground* There are vehicle tracks here, and a lot of footprints. I'd say most of them are only an hour or so ahead of us, actually...we just missed whatever happened here. *continues walking slowly, but suddenly stops* *points to the ground* These tracks here are even more recent. Not more than half an hour, I'd wager. But why did one person wait behind the rest and then follow? That's quite strange. *looks up at the dock* There's a ship tied to the dock...it's not flying any colors, which is also strange.

Misty: *looks at where the tracks lead* They seem to lead in the direction of... *looks up* The Clocktower.

*looks from the tracks to the ship* want to follow the tracks, or investigate the ship first?

Alzymus: *looks in the direction of the Clocktower* I vote for the ship. We might get an idea of what happened here...and what's going on up there. *points at the tower*

Misty: *nods* Sounds like a good idea.

Alzymus: It's huge, isn't it?

Misty: *looks at the tower* Aye, tis huge. If it weren’t evil, it would be epic. *follows Alzymus to ship*

Alzymus: *steps onto the deck and looks around* *goes below the deck and looks around more* Before whoever brought those vehicles came, there were probably two people here. Based on the computer room, one of them was there most of the time. The other was in that bunkroom down the hall. A bunch of people came on board after the ship docked and searched through the boat, based on the footprints here. This used to be a pirate boat, but there would be more than just two people and a whole lot less equipment still here if the pirates had been in control of it. There were pirates in it recently though...there are signs of several more people...not to mention signs of a struggle on the deck.

Misty: Agreed. *walks below to the bunkroom* Not much left here. *walks back to deck and looks around* Hey... wait a second... *picks up piece of DJ's armor* Alzymus! *turns to Alzymus* This is a piece of DJ's armor! I'm sure of it. *runs down to computer room* If DJ was here, that means one of the others might have been here with him. *looks around for something that might help* Hmmm... *walks over to window* *opens it* Here's footprints, it looks as if one of them jumped out of the ship. *sees piece of black cloth caught on window* And I think I might know which one... *walks back upstairs to show Alzymus*

Alzymus: So it was DJ and EDJ, then. But why would they be with a group that large? Unless...they're CS. *frowns* That can't possibly be good. *thinks* You said that EDJ went out the window, right?

Misty: That's sure what it looks like. I think we should head on after them and... *voice trails off and she looks out to sea* and there seems to be another ship coming in.

Alzymus: *follows Misty's gaze* Aye, I see it. Large cruiser, by the looks of it. Shouldn't be long until it arrives...maybe if we're lucky, somebody we know is following DJ and EDJ...

Misty: *nods* I hope so. *sits on deck and waits* I sure hope so...



*scene switch*


Eve: *walks onto deck* Ah, we are coming into port. Good.

Brady: I take it you still want to continue, then. Alzymus and Misty are on that dock waiting for us. Looks like EDJ and DJ beat us here in that pirate ship...they're probably already headed toward the Clocktower. Even after I told them to stay away from the Clockwork Syndicate, they still persist in throwing themselves into danger over and over again! *scowls* Well, I suppose that would leave it up to us to go after them. Maybe if we're lucky I can overtake them before they get DJ to the tower. If they get both Hanna and DJ up there...it's all over. *looks at Eve* Are you SURE you're still with me here? I won't allow any distractions...I can't allow myself to...fail...again.

Eve: Why do you keep thinking I'll quit? Yes, I want to continue.
*looks at ship sitting at the dock* And I bet you Alzymus and Misty will help us as well.

Brady: I'm sure...the whole lot of you have no concept of the danger you're in. Don't blame me when something bad happens. Let's just hope that we get there in time, ok? *ahem* I'm sorry for raining on your happy parade. Perhaps I should try to think higher of you...hard as that is for me.

Eve: Now listen here. I may not be from the future like you, and I may be an evil other, but just because I am those things, doesn't mean you have to act the way you have been. Being from the future doesn't make you any more special then the rest of us. And further more, if you think any of us are enjoying this, you are dearly mistaken. I don't know about the others, but I know it can't be fun for any of them. I think all I'm trying to say is, stop thinking so highly of yourself.

Brady: *stares at Eve blankly* Sure, sure.

Eve: ... Ok then, at least we agree... sorta. *walks down to controls to dock the ship* This one.... *flips a blue lever* Then the red one... *turns red wheels* And then this last one *turns the key* There we go. *walks back up to the dock. You ready, Brady?

Brady: Yeah, as ready as I'll ever be. *walks to the railing and leaps overboard LotR style*

Eve: *walks down and follows Brady*

Brady: *watches Eve* That was anticlimactic. You could at least try to be a little more exciting...

Alzymus: *walks up to Brady* I'm sure that you're well aware of what's going on here. Are you two headed toward the Clocktower as well?

Misty: *turns the corner and sees Eve* *is taken aback and takes a few steps back* *is at a loss for words*



Eve: *sees Misty* Ok... this is it. You can do this. Just tell her what happened. She'll understand... if I'm lucky...



Misty: *finally finds words* EVE! what in the world are you doing here?! *narrows eyes* And whose side are you on?



Eve: *walks closer to Misty* Misty, I have to tell you.. I didn't--



Misty: *holds up hand* Now's not the time. If you are actually on our side... then we better get down to business. Now then... are you headed for the Clocktower?



Eve: *blinks* I...uh... I think so. *turns to Brady* Are we?

Brady: *doesn't take his eyes off Alzymus* Yeah, that's the plan. Road trip, anyone?

Alzymus: As if we have a choice...



Brady: That's what I've been telling Eve for hours...you DO have a choice.



Alzymus: Not as far as I'm concerned, I don't. Now, let's go before this trail gets any colder. They're not more than a couple hours ahead of us.



Brady: *nods* I'm well aware of that. Let's go then, seeing as you insist. *leads the group toward the Clocktower*

Misty: *follows Brady* *stops mid-stride and turns full circle* Wait, where's Hanna? *looks at Alzymus then Brady*

Brady: *facepalm* You REALLY don't want to know.

Misty: *steps in front of Brady* Yes, I REALLY do want to know.

Brady: Fine, then.



Alzymus: .....



Brady: Hanna's gone with the Clockwork Syndicate...Cryptic, if you wish to be more specific. Although I don't think any of you except for Eve here actually knows who Cryptic is. Short story, he doesn't actually work for them, but he's being blackmailed by them...the cost of his freedom was either DJ or Hanna.

Misty: So what you are telling me is, they have both of them?



Eve: *tilts head back and forth* Mmmm... yeah. Pretty much.



Misty: And that the only way to get there is by walking?

Brady: Unless you can magically grow a pair of wings...or if Alzymus were actually big enough to carry us...

Alzymus: I actually could probably take you one at a time, although I don't know how much time that would save.

Misty: I see... I don't know if that would save much time. Besides, it would be too dangerous. *thinks* *snaps fingers and grins* what if I told you, I could get us a car within 10 minutes?

Alzymus: That would be a lot better than me carrying people...not to mention a lot faster.



Brady: If you said that, I would say go right ahead.

Misty: That's what I thought. Ok... *pulls out phone and dials Sarah*



Sarah: Hello?



Misty: Sarah! I need you to teleport 4 people.



Eve: Wait... I thought it was only you goi--



Misty: *to Eve* Shhh... *to Sarah* Can you?



Sarah: Sure thing! And they are all with you?



Misty: Yup.



Sarah: Alrighty.

Misty: Beam us up, Scotty! *hangs up phone* Y'all ready?

Alzymus: I think so. What is it that we're actually doing?

Misty: *grins* Teleporting back to HQ.

*They all teleport back to Misty's office*



Misty: Hey, Sarah.

Sarah: *tosses Misty the keys* Y'all be careful.

Misty: *nods* of course. I'll call you when we get down there.



Eve: Misty, couldn't we just get transported straight to the CS tower?



Misty: It would be handy, but Sarah doesn't have the coordinates to there. *leads the group to the parking garage* There it is. *points to blue 3000 GT* Hop in! *hops in front*

Alzymus: I'd rather ride a dragon...it has to be much faster than that hunk of metal you're sitting in. *frowns*



Brady: Dude, you have NO idea whatsoever. Shotgun! *hops in next to Misty*


Alzymus: If you say so. I still don't like the idea though... *jumps in the back* At least the seats are more comfortable.

Misty: Yeah, well, I've had bad experiences with dragons. And besides, Al, can I call you Al? When I told you about the car you were all for it. And I know that dragons don't have these, so just a reminder... don't forget to buckle up.


Eve: *nods* She's got a point. *hops in the back*



Misty: Eve sure has changed... but I don't know if it's for better or not. Only time will tell I suppose... Ok... *drives car out of parking garage and towards the Clockower at two-thirds speed it can go*

Brady: *yawns* Wake me up when it's over.


Alzymus: Umm... *grabs buckle and fumbles with it trying to get it on*

***

Christina: *is walking down a long road staring at crystal ball* Hhhmmm… It says I shall have an encounter with some people I’ve already met… This thing must be broken because I don’t see anyone around here. *puts ball away* *turns around to see a car getting closer* Hey, maybe I can get a ride to the CS tower. *stands in the middle if the road and waves*

Brady: Oh look, there's another one of our oh-so-delightful friends...Misty, you wouldn't happen to have the capability to actually run someone over, would you? I don't particularly feel like stopping.

Misty: *glares at Brady* No. For two reasons, one, it's wrong. And two, she's our friend. And a third one, just for kicks, I just got the car washed. *stops car near Christina and asks her* You want to help us?

Brady: *facepalm*

Christina: Help you? YOU'RE the one with the car! By the way, scoot over. *hops in next to Eve* So, where are you headed this gorgeous day in Thorae? I was just on my way to the Clocktower. *whispers to Eve* I hear that 's the place to be these days.

Misty: By help us, I meant help us get Lui, Hanna, and DJ from the Clocktower.

Eve: *scoots over* We are headed for the Clocktower, so I suppose you picked just the right car.



Misty: *nods and starts driving again*

Christina: Of course I'll help you get goth girl and DJ back. Oh, and Mario too. *nods*

Misty: *nods* Good. That makes at least five of us then. And if EDJ, Ace and Naomi are there to help us, that adds three more. We shall see, what we shall see.

Christina: Of course we'll see what we see. How can we see what we can't see? Anyways, I was leaving with Hairam to fix the awesome deficiency on Earth until I realized it. Wherever I'm not, there's automatically an awesome deficiency! So where'd you get the car, reminds me of Batman.

Brady: Just what we need...another mouth to feed. Although, that means another sword by which to bleed.

Alzymus: Hey Christina. I'm Alzymus, and I don't think we've met yet.

Christina I can feed my own mouth , very much thank you. That's why I brought this bag of food that YOUR not getting, Romeo. Now then, hi there, girly wing dude. Do you have a brother with black wings that looks cooler than you?

Alzymus: *blinks* Depends on your definition of brother.

Christina: Brother... you know, like a brother in law without the law part.

Alzymus: Most certainly not.



Brady: ...they're more like sworn enemies...

Christina: Your brother's your enemy?! Well no wonder you don't get along!

Alzymus: He's my brother only in the fact that we live in the same world, and the males all consider each other brothers. He just happens to be my enemy because he tried to assassinate the chief of the joint tribe.



Brady: Blah, blah, blah. Nobody really cares, Alzymus.

Misty: Brady, you’re just jealous because you don't have an interesting story to tell everyone. That, or you just plain won't tell for some odd reason.

Brady: Yeah, pretty much choice two there, Meredith. That's my final answer. No, I just get interrupted every time I try to tell one, so there's no point in bothering.

Misty: First off, the name's Misty. Secondly, if everyone were quiet, then would you tell it?

Brady: Tell you what...after we rescue all of the idio- ...friends at the Clocktower, I'll write a whole book for you. *rolls eyes*

Christina: Looks like someone got up on the wrong side of the bed this morning.

Brady: Whatever. *points ahead to a large city with immense walls and guard towers at regular intervals along its length* Now, are any of you wanted among the Syndicate, or will we be able to get inside La'Creval without trouble? This is the capital city of La'Esk, and more or less the headquarters of the Syndicate's power.