The Exceptions - Unknown 5f2k6d

The Exceptions - Unknown

Marcus Lorenzo

AuthorHouse™ 1663 Liberty Drive Bloomington, IN 47403 www.authorhouse.com Phone: 1 (800) 839-8640

Copyright © 2019 Marcus Lorenzo. All rights reserved.

No part of this book may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted by any means without the written permission of the author.

Published by AuthorHouse 10/14/2019

ISBN: 978-1-7283-2790-7 (sc) ISBN: 978-1-7283-2789-1 (e)

Any people depicted in stock imagery provided by Getty Images are models, and such images are being used for illustrative purposes only. Certain stock imagery © Getty Images.

Because of the dynamic nature of the Internet, any web addresses or links contained in this book may have changed since publication and may no longer be valid. The views expressed in this work are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of the publisher, and the publisher hereby disclaims any responsibility for them.

Contents

Intro

Chapter 1 Discovered

Chapter 2 History Lesson

Chapter 3 Separation

Chapter 4 Growth

Chapter 5 Trials

Chapter 6 The Arrival

Chapter 7 Wake-up call

Chapter 8 Abigale

Chapter 9 Recognition

Chapter 10 Epiphany

Chapter 11 Kiss and Tell

Chapter 12 Lights, Camera and Action

Chapter 13 Action

Chapter 14 Setting All In

Chapter 15 Friends in High Places

Chapter 16 Game Changer

Chapter 17 Reassurance

Chapter 18 preparation

Chapter 19 Epiphany

Chapter 20 Aftermath

Chapter 21 The Change Up

Chapter 22 Old Friends

Chapter 23 Fight Night

Dedicated to The Love of My Life My Motivation My Son Marcus Barnett Jr.

Intro

For a moment, I would like for you to imagine living in my world. We all live on planet Earth but, it’s different to everyone and everything. We live in different places, different times, different races, different classes and different species. I live in a world beyond your troubles. A world where I am to be hidden and unknown. A world where people like me are hunted and given two options, us or die. In the world I live in, people are capable of extraordinary things. Things that were once impossible are hunted and used for evil purposes. Powers that are used for war, control and intimidation. In history and story books, people or “Exceptions” like me were praised and worshiped. In my world, I’m hunted and used only as a tool to rule over everyone. Tell me why I am stronger than most but raised to live in fear of what could happen to me if found? Fearful of not being accepted by what we call, “Normies”. Normies are normal people in our society. People without powers are the ones that can live in the cities. The ones that live a regular life. Allowed to go to school, work and have families. Not having to run their entire life. Why is it that we can’t live among them? They believe we are a threat to the normies way of living. It is the government that make them believe we are dangerous. Exceptions are a result of the government and their greed. If you ask me, we are all exceptions. Just because I have powers doesn’t mean I’m dangerous. police carry guns, that doesn’t mean they will shoot you. One man may be stronger than a thousand other men or one woman may be smarter than one million other people in the world. They are both exceptional to me. Everyone can do something the next person can’t or better than another. So, tell me why I’m so different? More normies kill off each other than exceptions do. There are far more stories of exceptions saving a normie than police saving them. Yet we are still hunted like dogs and forced to live in the out lands of the cities. Constantly found by the government special unit. Fighting for our lives day by day. Now, don’t get me wrong, all exceptions aren’t good and a lot of them tend to abuse their powers. The governments special units are all exceptions. That is the reason we were created. My world was taken from me. Everything I knew and loved. I just want to set things straight and stir things up a little. I have the

power, the ability and the motive. My name is Sean Phoenix and I’m an exception.

Chapter One

Discovered

“H ow did they find out ?” says Priscilla. Adam responds, “I don’t know. We must deal with it now. Our only option is to go into hiding.” Cecelia agrees. “We have to protect our children.” Sebastian slams his hands on the table and with an irritated look on his face he says, “This is bullshit. There is no reason we should run. We have lived here our entire lives and nothing. We begin to meet here at the same place every week and now they find out ? I smell a rat.” Adam notices the look Sebastian is giving him and approaches him almost face to face. Adam then says, “You looking at me? Why would I tell on myself? Is there a question on your mind you want me to answer for you?” Nervously Priscilla steps in between them both pushing them apart to intervein. Cecelia scowls, “WE ARE NOT ENEMIES HERE. We need to focus on the issue.” Adam and Sebastian turn away from each other un-balling their fist. “What do we do about the Unit?” After a moment of silence Adam says, “I guess we have to face the music. It was bound to happen one day.” Cecelia blurts out, “How can you talk like that? We have children to think of.” Adam smirks at Sebastian. “I guess it’s just like old times again huh Bastian? He smirks back. “We know you are in there. Come out with your hands up and surrender.” They hear from outside. Priscilla nervously says, “How did they know we were here? This is an emergency meeting. Our kids are in the next room.” She points. Cecelia walks over to Adam grabbing his arm. “You have to get them out of here.” Adam looks at Cecelia confused. “Where do you want me to take them?” Priscilla says abruptly, “Cyril.” They look at each other in agreement. Quickly Sean and Abigale burst into the room in fear. Sean runs into Cecelia’s arms and Abigale jumps into Priscilla’s body scared to death. Sean asks, “mommy, what’s going on?” Cecelia looks around at everyone and says, “It’s ok baby. We just have some people that we need to straighten things out with. So, Daddy is going take you and Abi somewhere safe until we straighten this mess out ok”? She smiles at Sean and hugs him tight as she looks up at Adam. Cecelia looks at Sean and hands him a locket. She says, “this has been in our family for a long time. Make sure you always keep it close to your heart, because that’s where we’ll always be”. Sebastian and Priscilla both hug and kiss Abigale at the same time telling her how much they love her.

They hear a deeper voice from outside. “This is Captain Chris Lyons. This is your last warning. If you don’t come out and give yourselves up, we will be forced to act. I guarantee you that is not what you want.” Adam shoots out to the lobby in seconds. He looks around to figure out if they can escape. He shoots from corner to corner. “We are completely surrounded” He says to himself. He shoots back up to the group. They look at him in silence. He sits down, takes a breath and says, “We have to fight our way out.” Priscilla begins to talk when Sebastian hushes her and replies, “can you get the kids out?” Adam nods and says, “Yeah, but you would have to buy some time.” Cecelia gathers Sean and Abigale in the corner under a table. She then says to them, “Ok kids, we have to go outside for a second and then Adam will be right back in here to get you ok?” They both nod frightened. Sebastian says, “Ok, Let’s go.” They make their way into the lobby in sight where the unit shines lights on them. They slowly walk out the front where a helicopter hovers over the top of them. As they make their way closer to where the unit has them barricaded Captain Lyons says, “Get down and put your hands on your heads.” They all get down on their knees in compliance. Captain Lyons motions to two officers to go and arrest them. As they begin to approach the group both officers pause and drop to the floor unconscious. The other officers all look in confusion of what just happened. Captain Lyons sends another two officers to try again. They both drop in the same way as the other two did. Captain Lyons say, “So this is how we have to do this?” Adam Smirks at Captain Lyons still on his knees. They didn’t notice him move as he took out those officers. Captain Lyons Yells, “OFFICERS DOWN! KILL THEM!” The unit officers begin to transform into the beast they are. All level one unit with captain Lyons. They are all Ravagers. Savage beast with a taste for blood. After transforming they all surround the group. Sebastian begins to rub his hands together vigorously until they burst into flames. Cecelia looks at Sebastian and says, “Ok, I guess we are doing this.” She then starts to shake her arm as if she was in pain then bright sparks begin to show and one blinding flash happens with electric sparks surrounding her body. A few ravagers go in to attack. Sebastian dodges the first one and catches the second with a burning uppercut bursting him into flames. Cecelia standing behind him forwards kicks the first ravager back sparking his entire body as if he was being electrocuted. Captain Lyons scowls, “ATTACK!” Many of them attack from the ground and some pounce into the air from above. A technique that usually always work. Right before they make slashing with razor sharp claws, teeth and talons, Priscilla takes a deep breath and screams out, “STOP!” Behind her scream is a

sonic boom throwing each one of the unit ravagers flying away from them in every direction hitting building walls, trees and cars. She turns to Adam and hands him a small box. She says, “Give this to Abigale. Tell her we love her.” He looks at her, nods and says, “after I drop the kids off I’ll be back. Leave some for me Sebastian.” He smiles and replies, “Then you better hurry back.” Adam jets off back to the room where they left the kids. He tells them to grab their things. He asks them, “Are you both ready?” They both say, “yes.” He tells them to hold on tight just before he shoots back into the lobby. Seeing Cecelia, Priscilla and Sebastian still there standing off with the unit he darts off towards Cyril’s house. After a few minutes of running they come to a house deep in the woods. It looks as if no one has lived there in years. With no lights on inside it looks scary and creepy. Before they get any closer, an older gentleman opens the door and walks out on the porch with a cane. Adam tells the kids to stay where they are. He walks up to the older gentlemen to explain the situation. After a minute the older gentlemen looks at the kids over Adams shoulder and nods. Abigale tugs on Sean’s arm. Paying attention to his dad speaking to the old man Irritably he asks, “What Abi?” She replies, “Do you know who that is?” Her voice trembling in fear. “I think I heard them talk about a man before but I’m not sure” Sean answers. Abigale latches onto Sean. “I don’t like this,” she says. Sean turns to Abigale. Grabbing her by the arms as he looks her in her eyes he says, “don’t worry, no matter what happens I’ll always protect you. Do you believe me?” She looks at him and shakes her head yes. He smiles and nods to her. Adam walks back to Sean and Abigale to introduce them. He says, “Sean and Abigale, this is Cyril. He will keep you safe until we return to get you. In the meantime, I want you to listen to him and do what he says, ok?” They both nod. Adam kneels to Abigale. He hands her the box and tells her, “Your mom gave this to me for you. She said her and your father loves you very much.” A tear drops from Abigale’s eyes. He then turns to Sean and says, “I love you son. that being the best…” Sean cuts in saying, “Comes from the best practice.” Adam smiles, stands up and looks at Cyril. Cyril nods at Adam and then Adam disappears into the woods. Adam arrives back at the stand-off out of sight. Captain Lyons says, “Give yourselves up. Tell me where your friend went and I promise you’ll die quick. That’s least fun for me but not as painful for you. Now, make your choice.” The three of them go into stance and captain Lyons throws his hand forward ordering for the unit to attack. Ravagers rush towards them and Adam hits them all back in an instance going into stance with the others. He says, “I’m right here. No

need to ask anymore Lyons”. Captain Lyons begin to change himself into a savage beast. His voice even deeper he says, “Now the fun begins.” More reinforcements arrive from the unit. They begin to approach the four of them. Adam jets into a circle around the group kicking up dirt into a cyclone making it harder for the unit to see them. The unit backs off for a second but begins to approach again. One ravager jumps in the cyclone only for the other to see a burst of flames go up. Another jump in and they see a spark of lightning follow immediately afterwards. Captain Lyons orders the front line to jump in simultaneously. About twelve Ravagers approach and in unison they all jump into the cyclone. “AAAAHHHHHHHH!!!” Priscilla screams and they all fly out clearing the dirt cyclone. Captain Lyon smiles sadistically and roars. Adam begins to take out ravagers as well as throwing them towards the group as Sebastian and Cecelia light and burn them up. Anytime a group gets to close priscilla knocks them away. More reinforcements arrive and they group up again. Priscilla scowls, “We can’t keep this up all night. We need a plan”. Cecelia agrees, “We need to spread them out. Let’s head into the woods.” They begin to back off. Cecelia begins to shake her hands vigorously and she claps her hands together creating a blinding light that last a few seconds giving them time to blind them and create a gap between the four of them and the unit. After the flash goes away Captain Lyons yells out, “Follow them. They can’t get away.” They follow the group into the dark woods. Sebastian says, “We have to split up. It’s too many of them.” Adam replies, “Ok, but let’s meet back up at Cyrils once we lose them.” They break off from each other. The Units ravagers come to a pause. Picking up on their scent they break off as well. After minutes of running they all begin to become fatigued. They start to hear noises coming from behind them and in the trees. Priscilla comes to a stop. “I can’t keep this up” she says as she tries to catch her breath. “We have to keep going” her husband says. Just then the first ravager attacks. Sebastian pushes Priscilla away from him making the ravager miss them. The ravager looks at them like they are a full coarse meal. It attacks again and Sebastian ducks. Priscilla about to belt out a scream, Sebastian grabs her by the mouth and dodges the ravager. He jumps behind the ravager, trips him then hits him with a downwards punch burning him to a crisp. He looks at Priscilla. “You can’t Vocalize. You will attract more of them.” She agrees with him. “Let me check the area.” Sebastian takes a few deep breaths and then a short spark lights the area. Surrounding them eyes glow in the dark from the spark. They look around in panic. Hearing growling in the dark with glowing eyes behind them they hug each other. Sebastian says, “I love you” and Priscilla repeats the same. Priscilla

looks up and it’s too late. A ravager sneaks through and slashes Sebastian in the back. Sebastian drops to one knee. Enraged he begins to burst into flames. Another ravager sneaks up and he turns to grab it by the neck. He grips it neck so tight that he burns his head off. Distracted by the second ravager Priscilla get snatched by the leg. Falling to the floor and being pulled she screams in the direction she is being dragged. Sebastian snatches her up and says,” We have to do it. We have to buy them time.” A tear drops from Priscillas eye. Sebastian backs off and in full flame he runs in a circle around Priscilla creating a circle of flames. Priscilla then lets off a strong grunt blowing the flames away from them. Staying close to her, Sebastian burns every Ravager that creeps through the flames. After a while the flames and a few screams attract about a couple dozen ravagers. Right before trying the same technique again pouncing all at once, Priscilla and Sebastian look at each other. Sebastian begins to burst into an inferno and Priscilla takes an extremely deep breath. She pauses and right before she screams louder than she ever has. Adam and Cecelia come to a stop seeing the light from the explosion in the distance. Already knowing what happened, Cecelia yells, “NO!” Adam hugs her and grabs her face. Looking her in the eye, “We have to go.” He grabs her hand and begins to run. “Not so fast.” They hear Captain Lyons voice in the dark. “You could’ve got away by yourself. But you stayed behind with your wife. Now, isn’t that true love?” Adam steps in front of Cecelia and says, “Just let us go and you’ll live.” Captain Lyons lets off a vindictive chuckle, “I don’t think you understand the severity of your situation. I think you should take a second to look around.” Cecelia shakes her hands and clap them together letting off a spark to notice they are surrounded as well. “This could’ve went completely different but you had to choose the hard route. Now, I’ll give you a few seconds to say goodbye to one another. But know, I don’t like that mushy shit so hurry it up.” Cecelia looks around and Adam asks, “what do you want to do? You can spark again and we can run.” She replies, “it won’t work again. They have already picked up on our scents. They’ll just keep following us.” Adam says, “we have to at least try.” Captain Lyons slams down on them with a slash and they push apart from each other. Barely missing the two of them he says, “I told you to hurry it up. Now which one of you want to die first? Or which one wants to watch the other die rather?” He smiles evilly. Hearing growling in the background and coming from every direction they begin to panic. Adam tells Cecelia that he loves her, and she does the same as well. Captain Lyons goes to attack them again and Adam pulls Cecelia out of the way and shoots back at Captain Lyons with a jumping punch to the face. Captain Lyons slides back

catching himself by clawing into the ground. Captain Lyons stands up and gives off a large growl. Then other ravagers go in to attack. Dodging, kicking and punching Adam begins to tire out. Cecelia Flashes up her body in anger and begins to attack the ravagers. One by one her and Adam take out ravagers. Being attacked by so many Captain Lyons waits for an opening. He pays attention from a distance and then he notices his opening. He takes it and slashes with power and knocks Adam into a nearby tree. Cecelia runs to him. He looks her in the eyes and touches her face right before he slumps over. She begins to breath uncontrollably as if she were having a panic attack. Her body slowly begins to light up like a slow strobe light. She comes to her feet then the light enhances and speeds up until there is a constant blinding light. The ravagers can no longer see her but can still smell her scent. Captain Lyons trying to block the light from his eyes with his huge claws says, “You will die here tonight. Just give it up.” The light begins to come closer to him. You see the units ravagers jumping into the light and sparks come from it every time a ravager enters. You hear Cecelia’s voice say with an angelic echo, “just walk into the light.” Questioning himself he hesitates for a few seconds. He then gives off a menacing roar and leaps into the light.

Chapter Two

History Lesson

S tanding there in the dark silence the children look scarce. Cyril says to them, “How about we go inside and I’ll fix you two kids something to eat. Are you hungry?” They all walk inside. Cyril closes the door behind them. “Let me get you two a change of clothes for bed. I’ll fix you both something to eat and you can take a shower beforehand. How does that sound?” With them being uncomfortable they don’t respond. He says, “let me show you where you will be sleeping.” He walks them both down a hallway where they notice pictures on the wall. He shows them to their individual rooms and hand them clothes and towels. “I’ll be in the kitchen when you two are done.” He limps away with his cane. Sean gets in the shower. After Sean gets out of the shower he looks around his room and notices an old picture on the dresser. Once closer he sees that it is a picture of he and Abigales parents with Cyril. He thinks to himself, “Cyril must be someone important to our parents.” Sean starts to relax after seeing that photo. He walks over to Abigales room and knocks on the door. “Who is it?” Abigale asked. “It’s me, Sean.” After a few seconds, she opens the door. “Nice room,” he says. “Are you ready to eat?” She shrugs her shoulders. “I’m not very hungry,” she says depressingly. Sean grabs her hand and walks her into the kitchen where the food is and Cyril is sitting at the table waiting for them. They sit down and begin to eat. Cyril looks at them for a while. “Are you related to us?” Sean asked. Cyril chuckles and replies, “No, I’m not related. I was your parents teacher. Now, how about you two finish eating, and I’ll explain more to you in the morning.” Sean says, “Ok.” Cyril gets up from the table grabbing his cane and limps out the kitchen. “Goodnight” he says. They finish their meal and head to their bedrooms. Looking scared Abigale looks at Sean saying, “goodnight.” Sean smiles at her and replies, “goodnight Abi. I’ll see you in the morning.” Sean walks into his room and lays down in deep thought of what could have happened to his mom and dad. Abigale was thinking the same thing tries to go to sleep. After minutes of trying to fall asleep Abigale sits up. Thinking and asking herself, “I wonder if Sean can sleep?” She grabs a pillow off the bed and creeps out her room down the hall to Sean’s room. She slowly pushes his door open saying under her breath, “Sean are you

awake?” She doesn’t get a response which was intended. She sneaks into his bed and crawls under his arms. She falls asleep with ease feeling protected next to him. A few minutes later Sean turns and awakens when he notices Abigale in his bed. Frightened at first, he raises a fist but realizes it’s her, “Abi, what are you doing in here?” Still having her eyes closed she replies, “I didn’t feel safe in there alone. I feel safe here with you.” She snuggles closer to him still holding her pillow. Sean puts his arm around her. He sighs, “Ok, but don’t make this a habit.” She smiles with her eyes still closed and they fall asleep holding each other. Cyril opens Sean’s bedroom door and peaks in. “I was wondering where Abigale.” Sean and Abigale jump out of bed quickly. “I see the two of you are really close. Whenever you’re ready, I’ll be waiting outside for you. I left some clothes for you to wear out here.” He points to the edge of the bed and walks out. Sean grabs the clothes he left and he notices they are for martial arts. Abigale stares at them confused for a second and says, “What are these for?” Sean shrugs his shoulders, “I guess for practice or training.” Abigale takes her suit into her room to get dressed. Sean excitedly puts on his suit and rushes outside to Cyril. Abigale comes out a few moments later tying her belt. Cyril slams the end of his cane into the ground demanding their attention. He stands up and walks towards the two of them. He asks, “Did your parents tell you about your history?” Abigale looking confused replies, “You mean world history?” Cyril shakes his head saying, “No, I mean your ancestry. The history of exceptions.” Sean looks lost. He says, “We don’t have any powers. Our parents have powers.” Abigale nods her head in agreement. Cyril looks at them close and says, “Well they clearly tried to protect you from the truth. The truth is that you are both exceptions. You come from the longest living line of exceptions known and at the same time unknown. Powers ed down from generation to generation and you two are the last of that line.” Sean interrupts, “How do you know this?” Cyril sits down and motions them to do the same. Sean and Abigale both sit in front of Cyril Indian style waiting for his answer. Cyril tells them, “I was both of your grandparents closest friend. We were taught how to fight together, and I taught your parents how to fight as well. As I will teach you. The beginning of exceptions come from government experiment. Back in 2020 A war erupted. The United States became desperate and began testing on soldiers. They were trying to create super soldiers. Although they eventually were successful, they also failed miserably. In World War III they sent a battalion into war being injected with the super soldier gene

they created called Gene E. The Infantry manipulated it to act fast. Moments after they ed the enemy the gene reacted. Not only was it effective but it was also counter effective. Not perfecting the gene made abominations. They mutated and killed all in sight including their own team. The government had to decide to bomb the entire area no matter who or what was there. They killed millions of innocent people. They continued the experiments after that. Trying to perfect the gene they produced a lot of strong soldiers. Still having side effects and killing participants they kept on and started World War IV. Aiming for world domination they bullied every other country more than before. Destroying countless cities, they eventually gained world dominance. Not knowing that there were soldiers taken captive and counted as a casualty. The other countries began testing the captured soldiers D.N.A. and creating super soldiers. This eventually led to World War V. They had to come to a treaty after back to back wins and losses. Before they would kill off any soldier that tried to leave the army that was experimented on. But, after the treaty laws came into place, some soldiers didn’t take to the gene. They called them Exceptions. They were released and not thought of afterwards. Some were completely clean of the gene but in some it laid dormant. They didn’t pick up on the dormant soldiers. As time went on the gene ed on and became a problem to the government. It was activated in dangerous situations mostly but a lot of times it happened by puberty. This was worldwide. Our way of living today is a result of this. We have to hide and stay to ourselves because of what they did to us.” Abigale cuts in saying, “We aren’t exceptions. We don’t have powers. We can live a normal life.” Cyril looks at her in disbelief. He says, “Let’s find out if that’s true. How old are you two?” Abigale says, “I’m 10.” Sean replies, “11.” Cyril says, “Sean stand in front of me.” Sean gets up and stands in front of Cyril. “I’m going to attack you. I know your parents taught you something.” Looking in fear Sean replies, “Just a little but nothing like that.” Sean looks at Abigale. Cyril goes to attack Sean and he tries to block it but the blow knocks him down. Abigale begins to cry. “Why are you doing this?” she asks. Sean gets up infuriated. Abigale tries to plead with Cyril and he points to Sean. Abigale jumps back surprised. Cyril throws his cane like a sharp dagger at Sean and he dodges it. He attacks Cyril head on with a forward punch. Cyril blocks it while grabbing his wrist throwing him into a wall. Abigale looks on terrified. She screams, “Our parents should have never sent us here.” They feel a strong wind as Sean catches himself and shoots back at Cyril enraged. Moving at an inhuman speed Sean throws blow after blow and Cyril responds right back at the same speed. After a few moments of them going back and forth Abigale pleads, “Stop!” They

continue to go at it. Throwing more punches and kicks Abigale grows in terror. She yells, “STOP!” Still not listening she becomes enraged. Taking a very deep breath, she screams, “STOOOOOP!” Behind her scream is a tornadic wind that throws them into the walls behind them. Abigale covers her mouth with her hands while Cyril and Sean stare at her. After recovering from hitting the wall Cyril walks over to grab his cane and brushes himself off. He begins to walk inside never looking back as he says, “You still believe you aren’t exceptions?” Sean and Abigale look at each other in awe. “Training starts tomorrow.” Sean runs to Abigale in shock saying, “How did that just happen?” Abigale still covering her mouth says nothing. Sean motions to her for an answer. She whispers, “I don’t know what happened.” Sean looks at her and scowls, “OK! You don’t have to scream.” He laughs and she punches him in the arm. She says, “It’s not funny.” He smiles and after a few seconds she laughs too. He wraps his arm around her neck as they begin to walk inside. She elbows him in his side saying, “don’t mess with me anymore.” He looks shocked replying, “I wouldn’t dare.” They both laugh as they go inside in anticipation for what’s to come tomorrow.

Chapter Three

Separation

A fter six years of living with Cyril, training and personal growth Abigale becomes rebellious and questions life for herself. During a training lesson Abigale stops and asks, “Why are we still doing the same thing day in and day out? Why are we still here? When can we go live? Why can’t I have a normal life? No one knows . We haven’t been hunted or even found. Why do I have to stay here?” Sean tries to hush her but Cyril interrupts immediately. “Have I not taught you anything Abi?” With an aggravated look on her face she replies, “Yes, but I am a woman now and I deserve to have a life. I’m not a soldier.” Cyril sits back and says, “I wouldn’t go that far. You are only sixteen. But, if you feel that strongly about it then you are more than welcome to leave. You’ll always have a home here. I wouldn’t stop you from living your life. I was only meant to prepare you for what’s to come.” She looks at him for a few seconds in confusion to his answer of what’s to come. She then looks at Sean and He stares back at her. Wanting her to stay he says, “Please don’t go. We can protect each other here with Cyril. This is our home now.” She begins to tear up. “Do you not how we got here Sean? Our parents never came back for us. Isn’t that what we expected? That they would come back for us? We were forced to become orphans. Hiding for years here training. Training for what? No one has come looking for us. Not once. We practice day and night. I don’t know about you Sean, but I want to live my life. I want to have a family again. I want to love and be happy.” She walks over to him placing her hand on his face. “Do you want that Sean?” He grabs her hand looking away. “Yes, I do Abi. But this is what it is now. We’ve learned a lot more about this world living here since our parents died.” Abigale cuts in, “DIED?” She scowls. “Our parents were taken from us. In cold blooded murder. I don’t know about you but, I will not let that down. I will not run my entire life. They will pay for what they have done to me. Either you are with me or you are against me Sean.” Sean embraces Abigale with a tight hug. She tries to fight him off but she can’t break his grip. Sean says, “I’ll always protect you. I’m always with you. But I am not done here. Don’t go”. Abigale pushes Sean away looking at them both with tears pouring from her face and says calmly, “I’m leaving in the morning.” She goes inside slamming the door behind her. Sean and Cyril look at each other worried.

Abigale storms into her room and begin to pack her things. She looks over at the dresser then pauses. She goes over to grab the photograph of her and Sean’s parents with Cyril. Sliding her finger down the picture she burst out into tears. Holding it in for so long she breaks down. Sean hears her crying inside and he rushes to her room. He knocks on the door. “Are you ok Abi?” Still crying she doesn’t answer. “Abi can you unlock the door?” Her cry becomes louder. Sean begins to panic. “ABI!” He screams. “CALM DOWN ABI!” He backs away and rushes at the door to break it down. Just as he breaks through the door Abigale Screams at the top of her lungs. Sean is thrown back out the room as all the windows and glass in the room shatters. The walls and wood of the furniture crack as she begins to calm down. She drops to her knees staring at the picture still crying with her hands bleeding from the glass frame shattering. After he gets up Sean jets back into her room helping her up. He holds her and says, “everything will be ok. We will avenge them. I just need more time here.” Abigale lifts up her head looking at Sean, “I can’t stay here any longer Sean. I can’t take the pain anymore being here. I have to leave.” Sean kisses Abigale on her forehead and walks out her room. Cyril enters her room right after. “Your mother was quite rebellious as well. But she always made the right choices. You are just like her.” He winks at Abigale and walks out the room. Sean and Cyril meet in the living. Sean asks, “What do we do about this Cyril?” He shrugs his shoulders, “I don’t know. That room is going to be a pain in the ass to repair.” Sean says, “About Abi. What are we going do about her leaving? She can’t just go out there alone.” Cyril sits in his chair. “She is strong enough to take care of herself. I have a feeling she will do just fine.” Sean walks outside and begins to train again. Cyril takes a seat and says to himself aloud, “I’m getting too old for this teenage emotional shit.” The next morning Abigale wakes up bright and early to leave without being noticed. She didn’t want to say goodbye, so she packed the night before and decided to head out early before Cyril and Sean was awake to begin training. She takes the picture of her and Sean’s parents from the dresser then opens her door to find Cyril and Sean waiting for her. Being surprised to see them up so early she says, “Good morning. I didn’t expect you two to be up so early. I didn’t want to disturb you.” Cyril replies, “Well, I figured you would need to get a head start since the next city is a long way away. Sean here was waiting outside your room all night. He thought I didn’t know.” He winks at Sean and smiles. Abigale looks at Sean shockingly. Sean angrily whispers to Cyril, “Shut up.” He says, “I just wanted to see you off and tell you that I won’t be too far behind you. Besides, I did promise you that I’ll always protect you.” Abigale says, “Then

why aren’t you coming with me?” She stares him dead in the eyes. Sean looks away saying, “I told you I wasn’t done here yet. I don’t feel like I’m ready. You catch on faster than I do and I still have a lot to learn”. Abigale rolls her eyes and says, “Whatever. Thanks for your hospitality Cyril. I’ll Always be grateful for it.” Cyril walks up to Abigale and gives her a hug. He says, “It’s funny how you are your mothers child and I feel like you both are the same to me. You two are so much alike. Please come back and see me sometime ok?” She nods yes to him with a smile on her face and picks up her bags. She walks away heading towards the city. As she begins to fade into the distance Cyril says to Sean, “You sure you don’t want to go with her?” Sean looks at Cyril. “I don’t want to wake up to you crying in the middle of the night.” “Crying?” Sean replies. Cyril shakes his head as he begins to walk inside the house. “I just want to get a good night sleep. I woke up early to catch her before she left and you over here being emotional.” Sean scowls, “Nobody is being emotional.” Cyril replies, “Yeah right.” Sean kicks over a chair in his anger. Cyril pokes his head out the screen door and says, “You will fix that if it’s broke too.” Sean takes a deep breath and goes back to training. Just before she walks out of sight Abigale looks back at Cyril’s house hoping Sean was behind her. After waiting for a while she turns back to head off toward the city sad that Sean didn’t come after her. Thinking to herself, “Will always protect me huh Sean?” Abigale shakes her head as she begins to tear up.

Chapter Four

Growth

A fter five more years of training and hard work, Cyril approaches Sean and says, “Well, I think I have taught you all I can teach. But there is one technique that I have developed over the years after your parents left.” Sean looks excited and attentive. He asks, “What kind of technique?” Cyril replies, “Well, just like you my ancestors had powers as well. Mine doesn’t go back as far as yours do but I’ve developed it. I call it Linkage. It links any power you may have Dormant in you and combines them or let you use it simultaneously. It takes a lot of focus because you don’t know what power is there if any.” Sean asks, “How do you tap into it?” Cyril takes a seat. He replies, “Do you know of any other power your parents or grandparents had?” Sean thinks to himself, “My mom was a sparker.” “All you have to do is focus on that power and how you can use it. The problem is you also must think ing your power with it. If not done correctly, you can hinder yourself weak. You don’t want to do that during a fight. Especially when it’s life and death.” Cyril says. Sean asks Cyril, “So, it’s nothing to learn? It’s a technique to develop?” Cyril nods his head yes and says to Sean, “Well then, “I think you are ready for whatever is next to come.” Cyril looks at Sean with a smirk. Sean notices it and with a curious look on his face he says, “What?” Cyril says while laughing, “She probably has a boyfriend by now you know that right?” Sean with an annoyed voice replies, “I’m not thinking about that girl.” Cyril begins to walk inside and says, “Sure you’re not.” The door closes and Sean kicks over a chair again. Cyril pokes his head out the door and says, “You’re fixing that if its broke again too.” Sean crosses his arms and walks off. The next morning comes and Sean packs his bags. He stops at the front of Cyril’s yard and Cyril comes to see him off. Sean says, “Thank you for everything Cyril. We owe you our life.” Cyril shakes his head no and replies, “When you get to the city look for a man named Lorenzo Stone. And yes, you do owe me.” Sean laughs and hugs Cyril, grabs his bags and begin to walk away. Cyril holding his cane says with a serious tone, “We never got to finish that spare that Abigail broke up all those years ago. Sean smirks, drops his bags and shoots at Cyril with a right punch. Cyril turns to stone instantly and absorbed

Sean’s punch. Sean jumped back and smiled shaking his hand. He shoots back at Cyril and tried to Circle around him but Cyril mimics Sean, circles behind him and hits Sean with a Right kick knocking him back. Sean catches his footing then shoots towards Cyril. Right before they make he jumps at a tree and shoots back at Cyril with a drop kick to the chest. Cyril is knocked back to his knees dropping his cane. Cyril says, “I taught you well. Now, for your final lesson. Don’t hold back.” Cyril jets off towards Sean and because Sean is just as fast he can keep up with him. Cyril throwing punch after punch and kick after kick. Sean’s blocking and dodging every attack until Cyril uses linkage and hits Sean with a fast stone punch. After Sean gets up from the blow he asks Cyril, “Did you just use linkage? I can’t tell because you’re a mimic.” Cyril Shrugs his shoulders with a smirk on his face. “Sean brushes himself off and says ok. Let’s play.” Instantly Sean is in Cyril’s face. Cyril has a shocked look on his face at how fast Sean just moved. Sean punches Cyril in the stomach and kicks him in the chest knocking Cyril into a tree knocking it down. Sean attacks Cyril with a barrage of punches but before he lands the first punch Cyril turned into stone so he is absorbing his punches but feeling them as well. Cyril drops to his knees exhausted. He slams his hands into the ground and vines grow out gripping Sean like snakes. The grip gets tighter and tighter. Sean begins to panic. He thinks to himself, “I can’t lose.” Sean begins to shake his entire body vigorously. After a few seconds, you see small sparks begin to peek through the vines and then suddenly electricity Runs from Sean’s body through the vines right into Cyril. Cyril says, “Sean stop.” Sean being too into the fight doesn’t hear him. Cyril yells again, “SEAN STOP!” He still couldn’t hear his yell. Then finally Cyril screams, “SEAN PLEASE STOP!” Sean comes back to and looks at his body shockingly. Cyril Grabs his cane and comes to his feet. He walks up to Sean and says, “You now know that your power has no end. Use it well.” Sean nods his head yes and heads on his way. Cyril watches Sean as he walks out of site. He turns around and heads inside. Right as he enters his house he collapses to his knees and says, “I just couldn’t let it go.” He laughs and then moans with pain at the same time.

Chapter Five

Trials

S ean travels through ruins and wastelands. As he walks destroyed building and cars he notices a small crater from a far. Once he gets closer it looks more like an explosion but nothing is burned. He wonders what it could be. After searching through the ruins, he finds the picture of his and Abigail’s parents with Cyril. Sean frantically looks around everywhere for any sign of Abigail. He begins to scream her name, “ABIGALE!” He hears nothing but his own echo. After searching the area for a while he sits looking at the picture hoping Abigail is ok. Sean continues to head toward the city still looking for signs of Abigale. He makes his way through old abandoned houses and building looking for signs of life. He begins to hear noises from behind buildings and broken-down cars. After minutes of hearing noises, a gust of wind kicks up a cloud of sand. Sean can see a shadow heading towards him. Once the sand cloud calms Sean goes on guard. The shadow makes its way through the sand cloud and Sean Relaxes as he chuckles. He kneels and says, “Come here boy.” It was a stray dog. Sean goes in his bag for some food. He feeds the dog and pats him a little then asks, “What are you doing out here alone?” A voice says, “I was wondering the same thing about you.” The dog runs off and Sean stands up looking around. He doesn’t see anyone. Sean says, “I’m just ing through. Heading to the city.” “What business do you have in the city?” The voice asked. Sean picks up his stuff and begins to walk away. He stops as a man steps out in front of him. The man says, “It’s rude to not speak when you’re being spoken to.” Sean remains silent. The man walks around Sean intimidatingly. “I know you can talk. You were talking to my dog and feeding him something. You didn’t ask to feed him. Mylo here is on a strict diet. What if he gets sick now? Someone would have to pay for his medicine. I think we should just take that payment just as a precaution. Now, what do you have to give?” Sean replies, “I don’t have any money.” The man laughs at Sean and says, “you have to have something valuable. Let’s try this again. Look around for me and answer that question one more time.” Sean looks around to see eyes glowing all around him. He looks at the man and says, “Your right. I do have something of value for you.” The man smiles and says, “What you got for me?” Sean replies, “I have some advice. I’d advise that you let me be on my way and nothing will happen to you or your pets.” Sean smiles back. The

man stands shockingly quiet for a few seconds. He says, “get him” as he turns his back and begin to walk away. He walks away with confidence until he comes to a stop when Sean steps in front of him. He looked around to see all his gang taken out. The man says, “How did you do that? I turned around for a few seconds.” Just that second, he has a flash back of the standoff when Adam took out the officers. Thinking to himself, “I’ve seen this before.” Sean punches him in the face knocking him into an old car. Sean quickly stands over him and says, “I hope you have a better day” then jets off on his way.

Chapter Six

The Arrival

S ean notices a large gate coming up and he shoots to the side unnoticed. As Sean sits and contemplates on a plan of action he hears a large vehicle approaching in the distance. Not knowing who it could be, he hides behind some old rubbish. The vehicle approaches the gate and comes to a stop. He looks through the rubbish into the window of the vehicle to see a beautiful woman. More beautiful than he has ever seen before. Once he notices her he comes from hiding and she looks over at him. He stares at her as if she was a piece of art. She rolls down her window and says, “you, who are you and why are you out here alone?” He replies, “My name is Sean and I used to live here when I were younger.” “What business do you have here now?” She asks. “I’m looking for a man.” Sean says. She looks at Sean in a confused manner and replies, “I wouldn’t have guessed you to be…” Sean cuts her off before she could finish her sentence and scowls, “NO! I was told once I got here to look for a man. A man named Lorenzo Stone.” “Oh really?” She says. “And what are your intentions with him?” Sean says, “I was told he could help me.” Sean notices the enger door open and hears a voice say, “get in.” Sean gathers his bags and gets into the vehicle. Inside he is very much closer to the woman and can barely take his eyes off her. Sitting next to her is a man. Sean can only see the man’s mouth because he has a hood covering most of his face. After sitting in the vehicle for a while in an awkward silence the man asked Sean, “What type of help do you need from Lorenzo?” Sean answers, “any help I need from what I was told.” “And who told you this?” The man asked. Sean looks at them both nervously. He pauses for a while a says, “Cyril.” The man sits forward immediately revealing his face. Sean is a little taken aback from his reaction. The man asks Sean, “How do you know Cyril?” “He trained me and my parents.” Sean replies. The man then says, “your last name wouldn’t happen to be Phoenix would it?” Sean with a shocked look on his face asks, “How did you know that?” “well, I’ll be damned.” The man says. “I really didn’t think you were even still alive.” “What’s that supposed to mean?” Sean asks. The man replies, “you and your family, including the Maddox’s are myths. From what happened to your family to you surviving. It was told but never proved what happened.” Sean says, “Well it did and now…” The man cuts Sean off saying,

“you want revenge.” Looking at Sean excitedly. “Honored to meet you Sean.” Putting his hand out for a handshake he says, “I’m Lorenzo Stone. This beautiful woman here is Anastasia Faye.” Anastasia says, “Privileged to meet you Sean.” Sean shakes Lorenzo’s hand and replies, “nice to meet you both as well.” Lorenzo sits back starring at Sean amazed. Sean begins to feel awkward and blurts out, “So, where is your hideout?” Lorenzo and Anastasia both look at each other and Anastasia says, “Hideout? What makes you think we hide?” Sean replies, “obviously, you know I’m an exception.” Lorenzo stops Sean saying, “Ok Sean, just listen for a second. I can tell you weren’t told too much about me. Now, I am an exception and so is Anastasia (she gives Sean a seductive wave and wink). I own a special fighting company called E.F.G or Exceptional Fighting Grounds. So, because my business is lucrative I receive special privileges. People pay a lot to see people fight. Especially exceptions. I get fighters, people pay me to watch them fight, I pay taxes, a lot more other taxes and for that I am exempt from the unit. Oh, and so are my fighters. Unless they choose to the unit. So, you should think about that. I’m very anxious to see what you are made of anyway honestly.” Anastasia says, “I’m excited to see that as well.” Sean asks, “so, how do I your organization?” Lorenzo replies, “you could just beg.” He laughs and says, “no, I’m kidding. All you got to do is ask. Like, ask a lot.” “I’ve never begged for anything in my life and I’m not about to start now. So, if this is how it is then I can find my own way” Sean says as he grabs his bags and the door handle. “Ok, I just need to know what you are mad of. So, we will start you off in the preliminaries.” Responds Lorenzo. “Whatever you say. I’ll play along for now but you know why I’m here.” They sit in silence for a few minutes. “When do we start?” Lorenzo and Anastasia both smile and Lorenzo sends a message on his phone and says, “we are headed there as we speak.” After a short drive, they all arrive at a building almost resembling a warehouse. Anastasia gets out of the vehicle and says, “we’re here.” Sean looks up at the building in disbelief and says, “I definitely didn’t expect this.” Lorenzo replies, “Well, what did you expect? A big arena that everyone can see from a far?” Anastasia tells Sean, “Follow me. I’ll show you around.” She reaches out for Sean’s hand and they both proceed down a long corridor. Finally, they come to a door that has two men guarding it. The guards stop them and asks who Sean was. When she tells them he is a new fighter they look at Sean up and down and laugh. The first guard says, “Oh really?” Sean steps in the guards face looking at him very intimidating and the guard fixes his face and tells them to go inside. After they close the door behind Sean and Anastasia, the second guard looks at

the first guard and says, “You shit yourself bro?” Then he starts laughing. The first guard shoves the second guard and tells him to shut up. As Anastasia and Sean walk in he see’s people everywhere in the arena and notices two people already in the ring fighting with a crowd surrounding them. He looks at Anastasia and says, “Now this is more like it. Why did you trick me?” She replies, “oh, we were just having a little fun. I love seeing people faces when they first see the arena.” Sean says, “Well, I love it so far. What else are you going to show me?” “I’m going to show you how it all works Sean.” She says. “But first, the locker rooms are down that hall. Go get changed.” Sean looks confused and goes to the locker room. After a little while he comes out and walks back to Anastasia wearing his Gi. She looks at Sean up and down and says, “Aww, aren’t you just adorable? Walk with me.” She grabs his hand. “Ok, there are two ways to explain how it all works. She walks him to the ring. I can stand here and talk your ear off or he can tell you.” He looks at the man standing in the ring. He goes into the ring and looks at Anastasia and asks, “How can he explain it any better than you?” She points behind Sean and says, “like this.” Just then the referee yells, “FIGHT!” Sean turns around in shock saying, “Wait!” Just as he turns around the fighter was about to strike Sean with a jumping punch to the face. Sean dodges the punch by spinning behind him and as Sean dodges the punch he hits the fighter with a spinning back kick immediately knocking his opponent unconscious. The entire arena goes silent. Sean looks up at Anastasia to see her mouth dropped. She straightens up, walks into the ring and says, “welcome our newcomer to E.F.G. The one and only Phoenix.” The arena goes into a frenzy with applause. Sean looks around at the crowd raising his hand in amazement that the applause was for him. Anastasia grabs Sean’s attention and tell him to follow her. They both exit the ring and walk to the locker room. Sean sits down still having a look of disbelief on his face. Anastasia stares at him and says, “So, you understand how it works now?” Sean replies, “For the most part. What are the rules? So, it’s kill or be killed?” “NO!” Anastasia scowls. “We don’t kill anyone here. Mistakes happen and when they do it’s taken very seriously. People have been banned and arrested. Everyone can’t handle it.” “Handle what?” Sean asked. “The joy, the excitement and the pleasure of using your powers as you please while people root you on to do so.” Anastasia replies with a look on her face as she just experienced it. Sean notices the look on her face and just as he stands up Lorenzo walks in clapping his hands at Sean. “I’m impressed. Not even here an hour and you already go into E.F.G. history for the fastest knockout. Which means you’re going to have a lot of challenges.” He says. “CHALLENGES?” Sean scowls. “Oh, you didn’t get that far Ana?”

Lorenzo asked. “No, I didn’t.” Anastasia replies. Lorenzo looks at her blankly and then says, “Ok Sean, this is how it works. There are three weight classes. Lightweight, middleweight and heavyweight. Each class has its own champion. Every fighter can challenge each other. If you deny a challenger a fight then it’s a loss on you. The only one you can’t challenge is the champ but the champ can challenge you. The only way you can challenge the champ is if you beat every fighter in your class without losing a fight. If you lose you must start over. The only fighters that can challenge a fighter outside their class are the champs. You follow me Sean? Sean replies, “Yeah, but what class would I fall under?” “You’re a middleweight. It goes by height and weight. Become a champ and you can fight whoever you want. So, Sean, you want in?” Lorenzo says as he holds his hand out. Sean shakes his hand saying, “Yes, but answer me this, who are the other champs?” Lorenzo and Anastasia both look at each other and raise their hands. Sean looks at the two of them shocked that they didn’t tell him beforehand. “So, Who’s the champ of my class?” Sean asks. Anastasia answers, “A tool that thinks he is the shit. No one likes him.” Lorenzo cuts in saying, “Anastasia please.” She replies, “I’m just saying.” Lorenzo tells Sean, “He’s with the unit. One of our agreements with them was that they could fight and if one should become champ then the other champs couldn’t challenge him or her.” “And that’s where you might come in my love.” Anastasia says seductively. “We need you to help us get a new champ in your class.” Sean looks at Anastasia mesmerized and says quickly, “I can help. I mean I want to help you. What do I get out of this?” Lorenzo replies, “You help us, and not only will your wildest dreams come true, but we will help you find whoever it is that you are looking for.” Lorenzo sticks his hand out. “I’m going to ask one last time Sean. Do we have a deal?” Sean looks at Anastasia then looks back at Lorenzo shakes his hand and says, “Absolutely.” After Sean’s first fight everyone saw a glimpse of what he was capable of and everyone wanted a piece of him. All the fighters were enraged. They were all thinking that this newcomer needs to be set straight. That it’s not all easy as his first fight. All of them jumping at the opportunity to be the one to show Sean just how difficult this league can be. As a fighter in the E.F.G. every fighters room and board is paid for by the company. So, Lorenzo shows Sean his new loft atop the city. Sean walks in eyes wide open and asks, “This is mine?” Lorenzo replies, “this is all yours. Fully furnished with all the essentials. If there is anything you see that’s not here just let me know and I’ll make sure you get it. Now, as far as anything that’s not for

your lovely abode, that’s on you. So, cars, clothes, jewelry, shoes and women are up to you to get on your own. But, I’m sure if you continue to fight like you did you won’t have a problem affording those things.” Sean asks, “Why would I have to afford a woman? They don’t cost anything.” Lorenzo gives off a long chuckle and says, “You have a lot to learn. Women are the most expensive item on that list boy. Just for most women these days to notice a guy, you must have all these things. It’s like buying a toy and batteries aren’t included. You need a lot of batteries for this particular toy. Over time the batteries will die and you will eventually have to buy more for the same toy to do the same thing it was doing before. Just stick with me and you will learn okay?” He smiles at Sean. Sean replies, “Okay.” “Okay” Lorenzo says. “Let’s go.” Sean looking confused says, “Go where? We just got here.” Lorenzo replies, “We all must make an appearance. Anastasia is waiting for us downstairs so go get dressed.” Lorenzo walks out of Sean’s apartment and heads downstairs. After Sean dressed himself he meets Anastasia and Lorenzo downstairs in the lobby. As he walks up to the two of them Anastasia examines his clothes and says to Lorenzo, “call the club and tell them we are going to be fashionably late.” Sean looks down at his attire and asks, “What’s wrong with what I have on?” As she fixes his collar she says, “Sweetheart, what’s right with it? Don’t worry though. I’m going to take good care of you and this time it’s on me.” She smiles and they walk out of the lobby and enter a very luxurious car. Sean asks, “Where are we getting clothes?” Anastasia replies, “My favorite men’s clothing store. I take Lorenzo there all the time. I just can’t resist a man with nice clothes on.” Sean looks at Lorenzo and he looks back at Sean shrugging his shoulders. Sean shakes his head with a smile on his face. They arrive at a store named Stalwart. Sean walks in and asks, “What’s so special about this place?” Anastasia gets close up on Sean, looks him deep in the eyes and says, “Have you ever saw someone so beautiful that you just couldn’t keep your eyes off them and every piece of clothing they had on complimented the beauty they already had? Well, this store offers men that exact thing. You’re not into men but if you were then you would look at Lorenzo the same way. You’re into women so the way you are looking at me right now is the same way I’m going make every woman look at you.” Lorenzo cuts in saying, “can we just get him a suit so we can get to the club please? Sean close your mouth and stop looking all in love. She’s spoken for and Ana if you keep playing with him like that we going to have a problem.” Anastasia grabs Lorenzo by the face and says, “Aww, baby did you just get jealous? You know I’m all yours.” He responds, “Yeah, whatever. You know I don’t fall for that shit but every other guy can.” Sean looks confused

and asks, “Fall for what?” Lorenzo replies, “You don’t know much do you? She toned it down just now but she is a temptress. It’s bad enough that she’s manipulative as it is but she also has the power to make any man do anything she wants if their mind is weak.” She cuts in saying, “And he is the only man I’ve ever met that it doesn’t work on. The things he does for me is straight from the heart.” Sean asks, “Why is that? What’s so different about you Lorenzo? What’s your power?” Lorenzo cuts him off saying, “can we just get the suit so we can go? We really don’t have time for this right now. We can talk more later. Now let’s go.” As he turns to walk toward the front he looks down at Sean’s shoes and says, “Get him some shoes too. I mean, what are those?” Anastasia hands Sean a suit to try on and walks him to the dressing rooms. After he tries the suit on he comes out of the dressing room to notice a lot of women in the store watching him. Women are even walking him so he can see them noticing him. He walks up to the front where Lorenzo and Anastasia are waiting and She says, “you see what I mean now Sean?” Sean shakes his head yes. The cashier asks, “Is that all for you today handsome?” Anastasia replies, “Yes, that will be all” as she hands the cashier her credit card. The cashier gives Anastasia an angry look and snatches the card from her. Anastasia looks at the cashier and says, “I know you don’t have an attitude you little…” “BABE!” Lorenzo says loudly cutting her off. “Don’t worry about it. It’s on me this time.” He grabs her card back and hands the cashier his card. The cashier smiles at him and says, “Thank you.” They walk out of the store and gets back in the car. Lorenzo and Sean both look at Anastasia. She says, “What? She was the one being ignorant.” Lorenzo and Sean look at one another and burst out laughing. While laughing, Lorenzo tells the driver to head to the club. Anastasia crosses her arms and legs and stares out the window angrily. After laughing for a while they both become silent as they get closer to the club. Before they get out of the car Anastasia asks, “Are the adults here now?” Lorenzo and Sean look at each other again and being laughing even harder. Anastasia makes her way of the car scowling, “GROW UP!” They follow behind her. Lorenzo fixes Sean’s tie saying, “Are you ready? You may have to answer a lot of questions. Don’t worry though. We will help you out if you get stuck on any.” Sean shakes his head saying, “As ready as I can be.” “Ok, let us go inside.” Anastasia says. As they walk inside the club all eyes are on the three of them. A host greets them to walk them to their reserved section where a man is waiting for them. He stands up to introduce himself to Sean. He says, “How are you Phoenix? I’m Ansyn Ables. I’m with the New Chicago Sports News Network. I saw a replay of your fight and I must say I’m impressed. Where did you learn to

fight?” Sean replies, “I was taught by my godfather.” Ansyn asks, “Who is your godfather?” “That’s not important” Sean says quickly. Ansyn says, “Ok, touchy subject. Where are your parents? Do you have any siblings?” Sean shakes his head no. “Come on Phoenix, you have to give me something. The fans out there want to know about you.” Sean looks over at Lorenzo and Anastasia and she says, “The fans will learn more about him as they watch.” Ansyn then asks Sean, “Tell me more about your parents. Where are they now?” Sean balls up his fist trying to raise it but couldn’t move as Lorenzo grabs his wrist saying, “I think that’s enough questions for tonight Ansyn. Let’s go to the bar and have a round Sean.” Ansyn replies, “Nice to meet you Phoenix.” Sean just looks at Ansyn enraged as he walks with Lorenzo to the bar. Lorenzo asks, “What the hell was that?” Sean with an angry tone replies, “What?” Lorenzo orders two shots of tequila then says, “Remind me to never ask about your family.” “How did you hold my arm down like that?” Sean asks. Lorenzo es Sean his drink and tells him to take it. They take the shot and Lorenzo says, “ok, you asked me earlier. I’m a mimic.” Sean replies, “just like Cyril. That doesn’t explain it because I didn’t use my power.” Lorenzo chuckles and says, “you did earlier.” Sean scowls, “I have to be using for you to use.” The club is so loud no one hears him but Lorenzo. Lorenzo shakes his head. “Times have changed” he says. “Once you use it around me I’m able to use it. The more I’m around it the more I’m able to master it. I’ve only been close to a few exceptions in my life. The only reason I can’t get Anastasia’s power is because hers is per gender. You’re the first quickening I’ve came across.” Sean replies, “So, you are the one he mentioned. I him saying he knew of only one more like him.” Lorenzo takes another shot. “Yeah we’ve only heard about one another.” Anastasia walks up and interrupts saying, “I guess you weren’t getting me a drink huh? You two just up here gossiping away while triple A is talking my ear off.” Sean cuts in, “who is triple A?” Anastasia rolls her eyes, takes a shot and says, “Annoying Ansyn Ables.” They all laugh and Anastasia says, “Ok, come on guys lets drink.” They both agree. Sean asks, “what should we toast to?” Lorenzo holds his glass up and says, “to the future triple threat.” They all tap glasses and take the drink. “Now, let’s have some fun” Anastasia says loudly. They go back to their V.I.P. section, order bottles of champagne and other drinks. Men and women begin to ask for autographs and pictures. Sean is having the best night of his life when he notices a young woman starring at him from across the room in another V.I.P. section. She looks familiar to him and It’s hard for him to take his eyes off her. Anastasia notices them iring each other and points it out to Lorenzo. He

says, “you think they know each other?” Anastasia shrugs her shoulders saying, “Don’t think he knows anyone here.” Sean and the young woman stare for a while until a man sits down next to her. He notices the eye and taunts Sean by kissing her and putting his arm around her. Sean looks away with disappointment and Lorenzo and Anastasia are looking at him. Lorenzo tells Sean, “That’s your weight class champion. His name is Micah Lyons. He’s a total douchelord that always makes everything about him. You do good and you will go against him. “What is he? What’s his ability?” Sean asked. Lorenzo replies, “He’s a ravager. A strong ravager. It runs in his family. His uncle is a unit leader. His father was in the same unit as well but he left for some reason. A lot of fighters refuse to fight him because of his uncle.” Sean says, “Well, not me.” Sean looks back over at the woman and Micah stands up and fastens his jacket. The woman follows behind him and Micah put his arms around her waist as they walk toward the exit. Before they walk out the woman looks back at Sean. Once she goes out of sight Sean looks down in deep thought. Anastasia and Lorenzo look at each other in a state of confusion. Anastasia goes to Sean and asks, “is everything ok?” He replies, “Yeah, that girl just reminded me of someone I used to know when I was younger.” She pauses for a few seconds and asks, “you sure it wasn’t her?” Sean nods his head saying, “Yeah I’m sure. It’s been a few years since I last saw her but she looked completely different. It was just a look she made that reminded me of Abigale.” Anastasia looks at Lorenzo and he asks, “Who was she to you? What happened to her?” “She was my best friend.” Sean replies. “She left when we were living with Cyril. She was tired of living in hiding. Our parents were best friends as well. We lived next door to each other. They hear the DJ announce last call over the music. Anastasia says, “ok, let’s finish this night off right.” She stands up on the table and screams out, “DRINKS ON ME!” Everyone in the club screams aloud and they all drink and dance until the club closed. When Micah and the woman exited the club, he escorted her into a car and gets in behind her. He sits back as the car pulls off. Looking over at her he asks, “what was that all about? Who was that guy?” She says, “He looked like someone I used to know. Don’t worry it wasn’t him.” He squints his eyes at her and says, “I saw the way he was looking at you. Is there something I should know Madeline?” Micah begins to get closer to her and grabs her arm. “I don’t like feeling jealous. It brings something out of me. You don’t want me to get jealous Madi.” She scowls, “DON’T CALL ME MADI!” With force behind her

voice Micah is thrown against the door aggressively. Micah sits back with a look of dismay saying, “You’re lying to me. Who was that guy? I’ll find out sooner or later. He was with Ana and Zo. He must be with the E.F.G. Nothing to say?” “OK!” she scowls. “He was an old friend but he didn’t recognize me.” He asks, “How do you know he didn’t?” She scoots close looking him straight in the eyes and says, “I wouldn’t be sitting here with you if he knew it was me.” Micah looks shocked as if she was downing his abilities. He then says, “Oh, so you think he can beat me? I’m the champ.” She looks at him with a straight face and says, “you saw his first fight. Yeah that, (She shakes her head) that wasn’t even him trying. He went on the defense and that happened. Imagine if he really wanted to fight. You’re good at what you do baby but you need to sit back and watch him. If you want to keep your championship then you will listen to what I’m saying.” Micah replies, “Keep my championship? You must really know him to be talking like this to me.” She says, “He was my best friend and he promised to always protect me. Until today I thought he broke that promise. If he knew it was me I don’t think he would stop until he knew I was safe.” Micah looking annoyed says, “You are safe, you aren’t in any danger and you can take better care of yourself than most men I know.” She replies, “Yeah, but if he knew I was with the unit I don’t know what he would do.” “What does he have against the unit?” Micah asks. Madeline shakes her head and says, “I can’t tell you that. All I can say is it’s complicated.” Sean had way too many drinks and had to be helped into his apartment. Lorenzo helps Sean to his bed where he lays down fully clothed. Anastasia tells him they will see him in the morning and he es out. Lorenzo and Anastasia walk toward the door when Lorenzo stops and says, “Wait.” He grabs a small trash can and puts it on the side of Sean bed. “He’s going to need that when he wakes up.” They both laugh as they walk out and shut the door behind them.

Chapter Seven

Wake-up call

S ean awakens with the worst headache he has ever experienced in his life. Feeling sick to his stomach he turns over to the side of his bed and looks down to see the trash can. He quickly grabs it and vomits into it. After a few minutes of emptying his stomach Sean feels hungry. He gets up to use the restroom. After he comes out he walks into the kitchen to find Lorenzo and Anastasia cooking breakfast. He asks, “Why are you two in my apartment? Did you stay here last night?” Lorenzo says, “No, we didn’t stay here but we have a lot of things to go over. I don’t know if you have realized it yet but you are a hot commodity and have become an essential piece to my puzzle. Like I said before, you help me and I’ll help you. Just roll with the punches. For now, I want you to just live it up.” Anastasia hands Sean a plate of eggs, bacon, sausage, French toast and orange juice with a side of pain killers. Sean sits down and asks, “What’s next?” Lorenzo hits Sean on the back playfully as he tries to take a drink and spills it all over himself. “Lorenzo replies, “we have a few interviews and a photoshoot to do. I’m sure you should be ok to handle it. It’s only the beginning Sean.” Anastasia puts the dirty dishes in the sink and says, “ok Sean, finish up and go get dressed. We will clean up in here and meet you downstairs.” Sean nods his head with a mouth full of food. He gets up and goes to take a shower. While in the shower he thinks about the woman at the club and has a flashback of him and Abigale playing together as kids. After a while he realizes he had been just standing in the shower for a while and Lorenzo and Anastasia are waiting for him. Just then BOOM! Lorenzo bursts in the bathroom. Sean reacts with speed unlike any Lorenzo has seen. He attacks him with a barrage of punches. Not realizing it was Lorenzo because of the steam from the hot shower Sean doesn’t stop attacking. Lorenzo blocks almost every punch he throws. Getting hit a few times Lorenzo uses his ability and his skin hardens like stone and Sean hits him hurting his own hand. Sean jumps back to focus and Lorenzo says, “Dude, what the hell? He releases his stone form. “How long are you going to take? We are on a timeframe. Now get dressed and let’s go.” Sean grabs a towel and goes into his room to get dressed. Meanwhile, Lorenzo goes back to the lobby where he and Anastasia were waiting. Anastasia with her arms crossed asks, “what’s taking so long?” “He was still in the shower” Lorenzo replies. “I burst into

the bathroom as a joke and he attacked me.” She laughs saying, “that’s what you get. What happened?” He lowers his voice getting closer to her saying, “He is really fast. I couldn’t dodge all of his punches so I turned stone…” She cuts him off saying, “Wait! You had to go stone?” He nods and says, “That’s not just it. After I went brick, he hit me and I still felt his punch. I really felt his punch.” “WHAT?” Anastasia says surprised. Sean gets off the elevator and walking toward them he says, “I’m not paying for those damages Lorenzo.” “Well, it was a joke but I see you don’t scare easily” he replied. They walk outside and they get into the car. Sean sits across from Lorenzo and Anastasia. Lorenzo notices Sean starring at him and asks, “What are you looking at?” Sean stares a few seconds longer before he replies, “you didn’t tell me you were an elementor. That ability is rare and I only know one other person that has the abilities you do.” They all sit quietly until Sean breaks the silence. “So, are you going to tell me or not?” he asks. Lorenzo sits up leaning toward Sean. “I had two parents that were exceptions. It’s rare that I picked up both of their powers but I did. Just like you, I’m a rare breed in the world of exceptions.” Sean then asks, “Where are your parents now?” Lorenzo says, “Well, my mom lives outside New Chicago and I actually have never met my father. My mother always told me that it’s safer for me or anyone to not know who he is or where he is. I guess he must’ve pissed a lot of people off in the past.” Sean turns to Anastasia. She looks away and Sean asks her, “What about your parents? What are they and where are they now?” She looks at Lorenzo and lets out a sigh. She says, “My mother never knew exactly who my father was but she lives outside New Chicago as well. I got my power from her so I’m sure you can already conclude she abused her power before I was born.” She chuckles then says, “you haven’t told us about your parents Sean.” Sean leans back looking out the window. He asks, “What have you heard? Anastasia and Lorenzo look at each other curiously and Lorenzo spits out, “Well, from what the reports say your parents along with another married couple were cornered in a building. They came out and one ran off. He came back after a few minutes and they all resisted. In the long run, all four of them, excuse me for saying but, they were all exterminated. This report came from the lone survivor of the mission.” Sean looking extremely pissed off asks, “What was his name?” Lorenzo looks down nervously. He says, “when I tell you this you have to not explode.” Sean nods his head. Lorenzo takes a deep breath. “Chris Lyons was the lone survivor. He was badly injured and struggled to stay alive in the hospital but he did. The only thing he said was that it was a mission complete. So, I guess they took out your parents and the other two because there were no more traces

of either couple. The only thing they knew is they both had children. Which, you are one of them.” Sean cuts in saying, “Abigale is the other. I was seven at the time it happened. Abigail was six. My father came in the room we were hiding in and told us we had to leave immediately. He grabbed us and ran to the lobby. I saw our parents surrounded by the unit and my father ran off again with us. He didn’t stop until we got to Cyril’s house. We lived there for a while after my father dropped us off and said we will come back for you. I haven’t seen him since then. Neither of our parents came back for us. That’s why I’m here now. I want answers. Now I know who killed my parents. I want to avenge them.” Anastasia asks, “What happened to Abigale? Where did she go?” Sean shrugs his shoulders, “She left a few years before I did. She was tired of living in hiding and wanted to live a normal life. I promised to always protect her but I can’t do that when she doesn’t want to be near me. That’s why when I saw that girl I paused and it all came back to me. I was drawn to her.” Anastasia begins to look annoyed and Lorenzo asks, “have you tried to find her?” Sean shakes he head. He says, “I haven’t but now I’m more concerned. I don’t even know if she is still alive. But then again, she is way too stubborn to die.” he chuckles. Lorenzo pours himself a drink and says, “I actually know a few individuals who are in the business of locating people. If you want I can have them check into finding her. What’s her full name?” Sean tells him, “Maddox, Abigale Maddox.”

Chapter Eight

Abigale

Five years prior,

A bigale walks off not knowing where she wants to go. She shortly decides to head for the city. With no transportation and not having super speed, she knows it will take her a while to reach the city. After walking for a while she comes to a wasteland. A nervousness comes over her as she walks old cars and broken-down buildings. Walking for a few hours she notices the sun going down and she begins to become paranoid. She saw an old abandoned hut in the distance. She scouts the area to assure no one is around or watching her. She looks inside cautiously and after she checks out the hut she places her bags inside. A shiver comes over her body and she looks around for something to build a fire. she builds a fire with wood from old broken-down buildings in the area and grabs some food from her bag inside the hut. She sits up close to the fire and while eating she pulls out the picture of her and Sean’s parents with Cyril. Starring at it for a while she becomes emotional and starts tearing up. She lays down crying and falls asleep next to the fire. When daylight comes she is awakened by a noise and she rushes inside the hut to close the door. Hearing scuffling outside she begins to have paranoid thoughts. “Who are they? What do they want? Did they see me?” Someone tries the open the door but it’s locked. The person knocks on the door. Sarcastically he says, “hello? Is anyone home?” then he laughs. Abigale sits for a while in silence until the person begins to bang on the door constantly and harder every hit. Then she finally says, “Go away.” The person says, “Well Hi. My name is Oliver. Whom do I have the pleasure of speaking with?” Abigale replies, “it doesn’t matter. I won’t be here long. I’m leaving right now.” Waiting for a response she gathers her bags. Then she hears Oliver say, “Well that’s no fun. I hear a pretty voice and I want to see a pretty face.” She tells him, “I don’t want any trouble. I just want to go.” He replies, “Well that depends.” “Depends on what?” she cuts in saying. He chuckles. “It depends on how pretty you are if I can just let you walk out of my life.” She pleads, “Just let me go. I promise I won’t hurt you.” She hears multiple people laughing. Oliver, while laughing he says,

“Hurt me? Doll, you can’t hurt me. But, if you don’t open this door I will hurt you.” She doesn’t respond. After a few minutes of silence Oliver says, “I’m going to give you five seconds to open this door. Starting now. five, four, three, two.” She screams “OK!” They all feel a strong wind looking around at each other and at the sky confused. Then Abigale opens the door. Four men walk in behind Oliver and he asks Abigale, “What’s with the hood over your head?” She doesn’t respond. “Don’t make this more difficult than it has to be. Now, take the hood off.” She slowly takes the hood off and long pretty hair drops over her face. Still holding her head down Oliver tells her to pick her head up. She lifts her head up and all five men looks surprised at each other. Oliver says, “wow, I see why you didn’t want to show us your face. You know we can’t let a pretty face like that go so easily.” After seeing how pretty she is all the men begin to transform into savage beast uncontrollably like dogs in heat. She pleads with them saying, “I don’t want any trouble I’m just ing through. I’ll just be on my way.” Oliver grips his chin with his arm under the other thinking to himself. She grabs her bags and attempts to walk out. He then says to his crew. “Grab her.” One goes to grab her and she reverses his grip and throws him away from her. The other tries to tackle her and she flips over him kicking him back into the wall. Oliver says, “Oh, you know how to defend yourself huh?” She tries to run but they block her way in every direction. They grab her arms and Oliver approaches her as he gets close to her face and with razor sharp fangs he says in a beastly voice, “You are too beautiful. I think I’ll keep you. But first, let’s have some fun.” Two of them grab her arms and the other two grabs her legs. She wrestles with them scowling, “LET ME GO. PLEASE LET ME GO!” Oliver returns to his human form and motions for them to put her on the floor. They do so and Oliver crawls over her saying, “Don’t fight and it won’t hurt.” Abigale begins to cry as he starts to touch her face. Before he goes any further she says, “Please stop. I’m warning you.” He gets in her face and replies, “Doll, I think you’re confused. I’m in charge now.” From Crying to a serious look in her eyes she says, “Last chance.” They all look at each other while laughing. Then Oliver begins to get close to her again and begins to take off her belt. She begins to laugh, and they stop. They look at her confused then Oliver says, “I think she likes it.” He proceeds to unbutton her pants and she says, “I warned you.” Just then she takes a deep breath and screams. They fly away in pain from her scream and the entire hut burst like a bomb exploding. They all get up and gather. Abigale stands up buttoning her pants and buckling her belt. Having so much anger in her now she walks toward them. Oliver

assumes his beast form again. With a menacing looks on her face she takes deep breaths. With every breath a small sonic boom follows. She speaks as she gets closer to them. “I just wanted to be on my way. I said I didn’t want any trouble. You insisted on having some fun. Well, now you’re about to have the time of your life. So, enjoy this moment. At least you get to see this pretty face before you die.” Two of the ravagers rush at her then spreads out to confuse her. They go in to attack her at the same time. The first leaps in the air and the other attacks from below. Just as they are about to make she faces the ravager in the air a hit him with a flipping back kick making the ravager on the ground miss his attack. Once she lands she runs up behind him. He senses her and tries to hit her with a spinning backslash. She drops into a split. She recovers and connects with a jumping uppercut then lets off a scream that knocks him out of sight. The first ravager recovers and sneaks behind her but she is aware. Before he attacks she hits him in the gut with a back kick. He drops to one knee grabbing his stomach and she screams knocking him into old debris. She looks up at the three ravagers that are left and heads toward them. Nervously they look at each other as if they are contemplating fleeing. Oliver says, “Let’s all attack her at once. That’s how we got her the first time. They start to surround her again. She stops and smiles. She asks, “Having fun yet?” as she crosses her arms. Oliver says, “we will make you regret this you little bitch.” She laughs and says, “oh, such vulgarity. Do you kiss your mother with that mouth?” They all rush her and leap into the air. He screams, “SHUT UP!” Closing in on her she yells, “AHHH!” All three are thrown from sight. After a while she gathers her stuff. Still in a state of anger she begins to walk with her belongs for a while and after a few minutes she comes across Oliver struggling on the ground to breathe. She looks at him and drops her bags. She crawls up close to him and puts her mouth up to his ear. She whispers to him, “I warned you. didn’t I?” Barely able to speak he shakes his head yes. Abigale still close to his ear takes a deep breath and scream louder than she ever has. She gets up and heads towards the city. Knowing it’s only a few hours away and that she will make it there before sundown is comforting to her. She walks the way there through ruins and when she gets there she comes to a wall. When she approaches the wall, she hears, “drop your bags, get down on your knees and put your hands up.” She does and then the gate opens with armed soldiers approaching her. The soldiers escort her to door. They tell her to go inside and once she does one tells her to get undressed and they slam the door behind her.

She jumps at the loud noise the door makes behind her. There’s a table with two chairs in the middle of the room and a locker on the wall. Once she puts her clothes away she says, “hello. Is anyone there?” She sits down and realizes she didn’t come up with a plan once she got here. In the middle of her thought the door opens. Four soldiers and a man of large stature walks in. Abigale takes a few steps back covering herself up. The large man looks at Abigale and says, “can we show our guest some hospitality and get her a robe?” A soldier brings her a robe and he says, “have some respect guys.” The soldiers all turn around except for him and she gives him a look. “Ok, alright” he says and he turns around chuckling. He sits at the table looking Abigale in her eyes. He asks, “What is your name and where did you come from?” She thinks for a moment and blurts out, “Madeline, Madeline Waters and I’m from out there in the outlands.” He gives her a suspicious look and says, “you must have someone out there that helped you get here because it’s rough out there. Especially for a pretty little girl like you.” “I can take care of myself just fine thank you.” She replies with an annoyed tone. The large man stands up and steps away from the table. He says, “You can take care of yourself? Then it’s evaluation time.” He tells her to follow him and they walk into another room where they take her vitals. They check her height, weight, blood type, hair color, eye color, gender and race. They also check her DNA to see if she carries the E gene which she does but it shows different from most test results. The large man comes back into the room saying, “ok, everything checks out. Now, we go on to the final part of the evaluation. Follow me.” He walks her back to the first room. She walks in and he closes the door behind her. She bangs on the door screaming, “LET ME OUT OF HERE!” A door on the opposite side of the room opens and ten soldiers walk into the room unarmed cracking their knuckles. Abigale backs into the door. She touches it and holds her other hand up to stop them from getting any closer saying, “Please, I don’t want to fight. What is this?” She hears a woman voice through speakers saying, “this is your exception test. We have found that people hold back their powers. This way you will show us or, well there is no or.” Abigail tries to reason with her saying, “This isn’t fair. I fought to get here. I’ll show you my power. I don’t want to hurt them.” The voice replies, “You do or die. You have no choice.” Abigale looks around for an exit. One soldier says, “What are you looking for? The only way out is through us.” They begin to rush her and Abigale becomes tired of the pleading. Right before they strike she takes a deep breath and screams knocking nine of them into the wall unconscious and one through the door behind them. The door behind her burst open and her scream shakes the entire base. She catches her breath and says, “I didn’t want to hurt them. Now, I’d appreciate it if I could get my clothes back and please don’t

make me raise my voice again.” A soldier brings her clothes in, she walks out the door and the large man is standing outside. She looks at him with confidence and says, “I told you I can take care of myself.” He replies, “And so you did. I just wasn’t expecting that. You are obviously very strong so we will place you appropriately. My name is Captain Chris Lyons. Nice to meet you Ms. Waters. I’ll take you to your quarters.” She follows him, he shows her to her room and he welcomes her to The Unit. Laying in the bed she thinks about what she has done and how she can take advantage of it. She thinks to herself, “I have access to information that I can use against them. All I got to do is play my cards right and everything will fall into place.” She falls asleep and awakens the next day to a knock on her door. She answers the door to see Captain Lyons standing outside. She lets him in and he takes a seat asking, “how did you sleep?” She replies, “best sleep I’ve had in a while. So, what do I owe the pleasure of this visit?” He answers, “I’ve come to tell you that you have been placed in a special unit. The unit I run is first level. We do a lot of the grunt work. The unit level you will be in are for exceptions with more rare abilities. But, for now, you will be put through basic training starting tomorrow. So, rest up and we will see you bright and early.” She says, “ok, thanks sir.” She walks him out the door and thinks to herself, “What did I just do?”

Chapter Nine

Recognition

Present day,

A bigale awakens out of her sleep in a cold sweat. She gets up to take a shower. Before she undresses she turns on the television. Once in the shower she hears about an interview. She hears, “I have the aspiring middleweight champion of the E.F.G. here with me today. Abigale hurries out of the shower to watch the interview. Not having time to get dressed she watches the interview in her towel. She sits on the arm of the couch in full attention to the television. On the television Ansyn Ables says, “It is a great honor for me to welcome my guest. He has the most watched debut in E.F.G. history. Ladies please hold onto your seats. Help me welcome the one and only fire hot Phoenix.” Abigale gets more excited. Sean walks out on the stage and shakes Ansyn’s hand. He takes a seat and after the applause dies down he says, “Thanks for having me.” Ansyn gets comfortable in his chair with his note cards in hand. He looks at Sean saying, “So, the fight was literally over in a few seconds. Where did you learn how to fight like that?” Sean looks at Lorenzo backstage to his left and replies, “my godfather taught me how to fight.” Ansyn nods his head a few times then says, “Who is this godfather? Is he known?” Sean says, “he’s nobody famous and we’d both rather it remains that way.” Anysn replies, “ok, that’s understandable. So, where are you from? What brings you here to the city?” Sean takes a sip of his water and says, “I was actually born here.” The crowd applauds his response. Ansyn says, wow, so you are one of New Chicago’s very own. Where have you been all this time?” Sean replies, “I was home schooled before, so I don’t know much about the social scene, but I was sent to live with my godfather when I was young. I left and came here when I felt the need to branch out and live on my own. Which is why I’m here now. I didn’t expect all this. I was just going get a regular job and live out my life normally.” Ansyn says, “So, you come here as a nobody and fame smacks you dead in the face. How does it feel?” Sean sits up and faces Ansyn. While looking him straight in the eyes he replies, “I wouldn’t say I was a nobody. Everyone is exceptional. Simply because they don’t have special power

doesn’t mean they can’t do something better than the next. People with the E gene are categorized. That doesn’t mean the rest are unexceptional. I may not be good math and someone may excels at it. A woman might be able to lift three hundred pounds and some men may only be able to lift one hundred. Every person is exceptional. Don’t let anyone categorize you. You think there is someone out there that can do your job better Ansyn? I like to stand outside the box.” The audience roars with applause. Trying to be heard over the audience Ansyn says, “Well, that was boldly said.” The crowd slowly quiets down. “Your godfather did a great job of raising you right. So, how are you liking the E.F.G. Phoenix?” Sean sits back in his chair getting more comfortable and smiles, “I like it a lot. I’ve become close friends with two of the champions and I can’t wait to be champion as well.” Ansyn looking excited says, “So you’re already claiming the championship? There are plenty of good fighters in your weight class. Have you met the middleweight champion yet?” Sean shakes his head saying, “I don’t need to meet him now. We will eventually see each other before we fight.” Ansyn replies, “Well the rules say you have to beat every fighter in your weight class undefeated to challenge to champ. But, the champ can challenge you at any given point. So, I guess we will see what happen with that. We need to take a break now but when we come back we will ask Phoenix more questions concerning his love life here on Ansyn Answers. Abigale looks nervous thinking about what questions will be asked and what Sean will say about his love life. It’s been years since she saw him and doesn’t know how long he has been around. As she sits in deep thought about Sean the shows return from commercial and she becomes focused again watching the interview. Ansyn says, “welcome back to Ansyn Answers. I’m here with the E.F.G. prodigy Phoenix. At this moment, it’s time to get a little more personal. Now, Phoenix it’s only been a few days since your first fight, I’m sure you have been getting a lot of attention from the ladies. Is there a woman in your life now or are you just enjoying being a bachelor?” Sean laughs a little and replies, “No, I’m single and there is no special woman in my life at the moment.” The women in the crowd goes crazy with applause. Sean goes on to say, “there was one special girl that I grew up with that I miss. I wish she was here with me. I’d be happy if I could see her again. Someone I saw yesterday actually reminded me of her.” “Oh, I’m sure that young lady just heard you and is probably blushing right now.” Ansyn says. A big smile comes over Abigale’s face. “So, where are your family Phoenix?” Sean’s face goes blank. There is an awkward silence in the studio. Sean tries to fix his face with a smile then says, “They are no longer

with us.” Ansyn says, “I’m sorry to hear that. How long has it been?” Sean looks over at Lorenzo and Anastasia then take another drink of water nervously. “I’m not sure” he says, “both me and her was given to our godfather and never heard from them again.” Ansyn goes on to say, “that must’ve been hard losing both your parents.” Sean says, “it’s hard but life continues.” Ansyn stands up reaching for Sean’s hand. They shake hands and Ansyn says, “Well, it’s been a pleasure having you here and I take pride in being the first one to interview you. Ladies and gentlemen, Phoenix.” Involved in the interview, Abigale didn’t realize Micah walked in. Abigale sitting there with the biggest smile on her is interrupted by Micah saying, “some interview. You seemed quite happy when he mentioned his friend.” She fixes her face saying, “when did you come in?” “Not too long ago” he replies. “Should I be concerned with Phoenix?” He walks over to her bar and pours himself a drink. “Since last night you have been acting strange. I just don’t get it. You say it’s nothing but when I’m with you I get nothing.” Abigale walks off saying, “excuse me while I go get dressed.” “NO!” Micah yells. “You always run. Tell me what you want me to do.” Abigale walks up to Micah looking him straight in the eyes, “I don’t owe you shit. We aren’t together.” Micah chugs the drink he made and looks Abigale back in her eyes saying, “So it’s like that? For the past few weeks.” Cutting him off she says, “for the past few weeks what?” He answers, “we were really into each other up until now.” Feeling confused and distraught he says, “I thought we were at least.” Abigale gets up and walks to her room scowling, “WE ARE NOT TOGETHER!” She then calmly says, “if you can’t deal with that then we need to make other arrangements.” Micah responding loudly from the living room says, “No, I’m good with that. I just wanted to be sure I had your full attention.” She walks back in as she is pulling her shirt down, “you’re here aren’t you? (he shakes his head yes) then we don’t need to talk about this anymore. So, can we please go get something to eat now? Please?” Micah nods his head submissively saying, “sure, where do you want to eat? She replies, “I don’t care pick somewhere.” He says, “ok, let’s get sushi.” She says, “No, I don’t want seafood.” He says, “ok, let’s get pasta.” She replies, “Not in a pasta mood.” He then yells, “WHAT DO YOU WANT TO EAT?” They both look at each other for a few moments and she answers, “I want deep dish Pizza.” Micah says, “there, was that so hard? I don’t know why women can’t ever decide on what they want to eat. You get hungry and want someone else to figure what you want to eat.” Abigale says, “Whatever, let’s go.” After the interview, Sean walks backstage into his dressing room where Lorenzo

and Anastasia are waiting. Lorenzo says, “good job Sean. You had the audience eating out the palm of your hand.” Anastasia agrees saying, “Yeah, I’m sure your female fan base is going to be through the roof now.” Sean replies, “I’m just glad it is over. So, what’s next Lorenzo?” “Next we have lunch with some potential sponsors and then we all have a photoshoot together. So, let’s head downstairs, greet some of the fans, sign a few autographs and we will be on our way.” They all leave the dressing room heading downstairs. As they are walking Sean is amazed to see a massive crowd waiting for them. Sean looks as if he is overwhelmed but then a smile comes over his face and they begin to wave to the crowd as they approach. Security escorts the three of them into the crowd as the fans are screaming their names. While g multiple autographs and taking pictures, they slowly make their way closer to the car awaiting them. The crowd gets louder and breaks through security. The fans start grabbing and pulling them in every direction so they made a quick dash for the car. Once inside the car they let out a sigh of relief. After a moment of silence, they all laugh together. Lorenzo tells the driver, “Let’s go.” The driver asks, “Where to next sir?” He tells the driver, “we are meeting some sponsors at Ana’s favorite restaurant.” The driver nods and pulls off and Sean asks, “What’s your favorite restaurant?” She replies, “you’ll see once we get there.” After driving for a short while they pull up to the restaurant. They get out of the car and Sean looks up at the building. He says, “pizza? A pizzeria is your favorite restaurant? (She smiles) How do you keep your figure?” “It’s a secret that only Lorenzo knows” she replies. Lorenzo chuckles and they walk in. Lorenzo walks next to Sean and says, “Ok, these sponsors always questions their investments to know if they are making the right choice or not. They are a married couple and they are monsters in the real estate business. Also, the wife is a bitch but you’ll see. (He smiles as they make it to the table) Mr. an Mrs. Alters, how are you? (He shakes their hands and Anastasia does the same.) This is Phoenix. Phoenix this Micheal Alters and his wife Mrs. Raquel Alters.” Sean greets them and Mr. Alters says, “Phoenix nice to meet you.” Mrs. Alters stands up, looks at Sean seductively and says, “it’s a pleasure to meet you Phoenix.” She takes a seat and crosses her legs. Lorenzo whispers in Sean’s ear, “oh, I forgot to mention, the wife is a little promiscuous.” Sean leans over to Anastasia and asks, “What’s that got to do with me?” She giggles and replies, “oh, you’ll see in a little while.” She pats Sean on the back and they all take a seat. Mr. Alters says, “I took the liberty of ordering all of us a drink. I hope that’s ok.” A waiter comes with the drinks for everyone. Mr. Alters then says, “So Phoenix, we watched your interview and I must say we were quite impressed.” Sean

smiles and replies, “thanks. I’m glad you enjoyed it.” Mrs. Alters says to Sean, “Yeah, especially the part about not having someone special really touched me.” Mr. Alters cuts in saying, “anyway, I watched your debut fight and I see a lot of potential in you. We have been wanting to get our feet wet in the E.F.G. and we are ready to be your sponsors long as you are willing to do the work. We want you to be the spokesperson for our brand. That means wearing our logo and marketing for us. We give you money, you make us money, tick for tack you know quid pro quo. We have never made such a quick decision before and we are set. So, Lorenzo, Anastasia and Phoenix, do we have a deal?” Lorenzo looks at them both and says, “I’m sure I can speak for all three of us when I say YES! Just let me free up tonight to celebrate.” Mrs. Alters looks at Sean and says, “someone is in high demand, are we?” Sean smiles and Anastasia cuts in saying, “Yes he is and he is sure to live up to the hype.” Mrs. Alters calls over the waitress and says, “Open us a tab. Drinks on me all night. We are celebrating tonight.” Lorenzo walks back to the table after cancelling the other meeting and says, “Ok, our night is free. Mr. and Mrs. Alters, here’s to your first E.F.G. sponsorship.” They all touch glasses to toast. Micah and Abigale both get into his limousine and he tells the driver where she wants to go. They ride in silence the entire drive to the restaurant. They get out and enter the restaurant. Micah walks up to the host and the host says, “welcome back champ, how many today?” Micah replies, “just two today.” The host nods and says, “follow me this way.” (as he grabs two menus.) They follow the host until Micah notices the Alters and says to Abigale, “There are the Alters. I’ve been trying to get them to sponsor me. Let’s go say hi.” They walk up to the table and with their backs to Micah he doesn’t notice Sean, Lorenzo and Anastasia. He says, “Mr. and Mrs. Alters, how are you today?” Mr. Alters looks up and says, “Oh Micah, we’re good. What do we owe the pleasure?” He says, “just getting lunch with my lady.” Mr. Alters smiles and asks, “why don’t you us?” Micah replies, “don’t mind if I do.” He seats Abigale and sits down. Finally, he looks at the others seated and says, “Oh, I didn’t notice that was you Zo and Ana. What a coincidence.” Sean is seated directly across from Abigale and begins to stare. Micah notices Sean starring. He clears his throat and says, “everyone the is Madeline Waters. Madeline this is Michael Alters, Raquel Alters, Lorenzo Stone, Anastasia Faye and well you must be the famous Phoenix. I’ve heard about you.” Sean still staring at Abigale he doesn’t hear Micah. Abigale tries not to make eye at all. Micah then says, “so, all the champs together. That’s a reason to celebrate. How about some drinks?” Mrs. Alters says to Micah, “we are actually already celebrating.” He replies,

“celebrating what?” She answers, “we finally became E.F.G. sponsors with Phoenix here.” Micah looks at Sean uncomfortably and congratulates him. He then says, “well cheers to that.” Abigale stands up and the gentlemen stand up as well. She says, “I have to go freshen up. Excuse me.” Anastasia and Raquel both her. They enter the bathroom and Abigail goes straight for a stall. Anastasia and Raquel stand in front of the mirror and Raquel says, “that Phoenix is so sexy. I don’t see how you can be around those two every day and not get turned on.” Anastasia smiles and replies, “well, I do get turned on but only by Lorenzo. Phoenix is attractive but my man has my full attention.” Raquel asks, “how about you Madeline? You have a cutie on your hands too.” She comes out of the stall, walks up to the mirror and says, “we’re just dating. It’s nothing serious.” Raquel looks her up and down and says, “I know we just met you but, Micah doesn’t seem like your type. I don’t really see anything there.” Abigale looks irritated and replies, “well, everyone can’t be happily married billionaires.” Anastasia can feel the tension in the air and cuts in saying, “shall we get back to the table ladies? We don’t want to leave those testosterone filled men waiting. They may do something stupid.” They leave the bathroom and head back to the table. The gentlemen stand up again and seat the ladies. Raquel says, “so, what were we talking about gentlemen?” “Oh, just business.” Michael says. “But enough about that. I’m off for the rest of the night. Um, waiter (he waves the waiter over) round of shots for everyone and keep them coming. Let’s have some fun.” They cheer and take a drink. After a few drinks, Micah begins to run off at the mouth about being champ and Sean becomes defensive. Micah standing up saying loudly, “the three champs are here.” Sean says under his breath, “yeah, not for long.” Micah says, “I have really good hearing Phoenix. You want to repeat that?” Sean looks at him for a few seconds in his eyes then says, “I said yeah, not for long.” Micah replies, “a little presumptuous are we Phoenix? Look, I don’t care how your first fight went. You haven’t made it to the big dogs yet. So, stay over there with the pups.” Just as Micah finished his last word Sean appeared smack dab in his face. No one even saw Sean move. In Micah’s face Sean says, “we can get it in right here and I’ll show you a real beast ravager.” Micah begins to get angry and his body begins to change. Abigale gets inbetween the two of them before Micah completely changes saying, “gentlemen, let’s not do this here. Micah starts growling and Abigale gets louder scowling, “PLEASE!” Instantly Sean looks down at Abigale in confusion. Seeing the confrontation everyone in the restaurant stands in case they must make a quick exit. Lorenzo jokingly says, “don’t make me come over there” and laughs. Sean and Micah both look at Lorenzo and simultaneously says, “what you going to do?” They look back at each other and Lorenzo says, “oh so scary. Baby, can

you please take care of this?” He takes another shot. Anastasia stands up and with a voice that echoes in their head she says, “please take a seat and be nice for the rest of the night. Can you do that for me please?” Without resistance, they both say yes and take a seat. Abigale has a look of confusion on her face. Lorenzo says, “now you see why she is champ.” The entire restaurant is in silence and they look around to see every man in the restaurant is seated. Lorenzo laughs and Anastasia says, “I’m sorry ladies. Please continue your night.” Raquel says, “well, that was exhilarating to say the least.” Michael says, “very interesting I must say people. How about we take this little party back to our condo. I insist.” Everyone agree and head outside to wait for their limousines. As they wait, Sean just can’t seem to take his eyes off Abigale. Wondering to himself why she looks so familiar. Not seeing her for years with her body maturing and her hair a different color with makeup on it’s hard for him to tell if it’s really her. He would expect if it was her that she wouldn’t hesitate to come to him. She re the last thing he said to her and she doesn’t want him to know she did the exact thing he didn’t want her to do. She didn’t know any other way in. She’s not on their side. She decides to hold off on saying anything. Sean says, “Madeline, right? (She nods) You look real familiar. Like someone I used to know.” She smiles at him and replies, “well, I get that a lot. All blondes look alike.” He laughs and says, “yeah, maybe that’s it.” The cars pull up for everyone and they all get into their own limousines and pull off towards the Alters condo.

Chapter Ten

Epiphany

D riving downtown they eventually pull up to a tall high rise with the letter M.R.A. on the top. They all get out of the cars and walk inside where the Alters are awaiting them. Michael says, “welcome to the Alter Towers. Tonight, we will be in our penthouse suite.” Sean asks, “what do you mean tonight?” Michael smiles and says, “the entire building is my home. All one hundred and three floors.” Micah cuts in asking, “how do you find each other with so many floors?” Raquel laughs and replies, “well first, there are such things called cell phones and we have an intercom system. Plus, there is a camera in every room with twenty-four seven surveillance.” She giggles innocently while looking at Micah. Michael says, “Let me show you all upstairs.” They all enter a huge elevator. With Michael entering last, he is standing in front of them all and begins to speak. He says, “I would like to welcome you into my home. Each floor has different decorations and themes. If you would like to go on your own tour of the building by all means do so. First, let’s go have a few drinks, mingle, have fun and celebrate. Let me remind you what my wife said, there are cameras in every room and I do mean every room. I just ask that you respect my home. With that being said, let’s enjoy each others company and relax.” The elevator door opens with servants waiting for them. Sean and Abigale are looking the most amazed by what they see. The others are more accustomed to the lavish life. They walk into a spacious living room with drinks and cigars ready. Raquel walks in first and walks off into the suite. They all grab a drink and take a seat. After a few minutes and small talk Raquel walks back into the living room wearing a somewhat revealing gown. She looks around and says, “ladies would you follow me please?” Looking at each other confused she reiterates, “Please follow me. I promise it’ll be fun ladies.” After they where she is standing Raquel winks at her husband and he winks back. They exit the room leaving the men alone. As they exit the room Lorenzo turns his head back toward Michael and says, “Mr. Alters I wouldn’t say this in front of Anastasia but your wife is very attractive.” Laughing as he raises his glass he replies, “call me Michael and that Anastasia is a masterpiece you have there. Well gentlemen, let’s relax and let the night play itself. Cheers to the good life.” Michael raises his glass towards them and they both raise their glass as well.

After a short walk, the women enter a salon room where employees are waiting to do their hair, nails, makeup and massages. They are seated and handed a drink. Raquel says, “please enjoy and let’s have girl talk. Lord knows I need it. So, what’s on your mind ladies? Talk to me.” Anastasia getting her feet massaged says, “I don’t care about anything right now. This is amazing but I’ll listen.” Raquel laughs and says, “ok, until my other friends arrive I guess that just leaves me and you Madeline.” Abigale asks, “other friends?” She replies, “yeah well I felt bad that Phoenix was the only one here without a significant other so I called a few friends over. Does that bother you?” Abigale smiles, shakes her head no and takes a big gulp of her drink. Raquel says, “Good, because I hope we can all let loose and have some fun for once. It’s always about business.” Anastasia in her own world of pleasure cuts in saying, “amen to that sister.” Raquel and Abigale both laugh as Raquel’s friends walk in. The woman whom walks in first asks, “Raquel, are we in the right place? Where are all the men?” Raquel greets them replying, “they are in the other room if they haven’t moved. Anyways, Ladies this is Heather, Sabrina and Lelani. Heather, Sabrina and Lelani this is Anastasia and Madeline. Now that we have done the introductions, let’s continue our night. Madeline you have beautiful hair. Why don’t you let my stylist take care of you? After she is done Micah will be drooling over you even more than before.” Abigale smiles and says, “what the hell. Why not? This has been a random night so far. Let’s do it.” Raquel tells the stylist, “do something sexy. Not too much, but subtle.” The stylist agrees and proceeds to style Abigail’s hair. Heather, Sabrina and Lelani all stand by the bar with their drinks in hand talking. Lelani says, “what do you all think about those other girls?” Sabrina replies, “I don’t know. I think they are pretty hot.” Raquel walks up and interrupts saying, “they absolutely are and we are all going to get along here ladies. Do I have to repeat myself?” Her eyes illuminated as she spoke. The ladies all say, “yes ma’am” in unison. She replies, “ok, I’m going to check on Madeline. Excuse me ladies.” After multiple conversation, the men come to a silence. Michael says, “well, there must be some awkwardness between the two of you. I mean, I can barely stay in my seat with the anticipation of seeing the two of you go at it.” Lorenzo takes a puff of his cigar and replies, “Well, that is ways away.” Sean looks at Lorenzo confused asking, “what’s that supposed to mean?” Lorenzo sits up and in a serious tone he replies, “Look, I’m not saying you are not capable. I believe you are but like Micah said earlier, you haven’t made it to the big dogs yet. Your debut was amazing. There are a lot of tough normies in the E.F.G. and the guy you beat just happened to be one of them.” Sean scowls, “SO WHAT?” “Be

easy.” Lorenzo says. “This shit isn’t easy and it takes a lot of work. Now, I believe in you. If I didn’t you wouldn’t be here now. We have a lot of ground work to do that’s all I’m saying.” The men hear a scream and the walls shake. Sean stands up immediately asking, “what the hell was that?” Abigale looks at her hair in the mirror seeing that the stylist has changed her hair back to her natural color. Recovering from the scream Anastasia scowls, “WHAT THE HELL! WHAT’S WRONG?” Abigale replies, “my hair.” Anastasia says, “what’s wrong with it? It’s beautiful. What’s the problem?” Before Abigale could respond she notices Sean looking at her through the mirror. She replies, “It’s my natural hair color.” Looking at Sean she begins to cry. Sean in a state of shock just stares. Not knowing how to react he acts like he still doesn’t know and says, “your natural hair color is way more beautiful Madeline. You shouldn’t cry.” Abigale slowly looks up at Sean in shock saying, “thank you Phoenix.” He replies, “you’re welcome. You are too beautiful to be crying.” He wipes her tears from her face. “Dry those tears and I’ll see you later, ok?” She nods and he jets back to the men. Once he appears with the men they ask, “what happened?” Sean replies, “I guess they were getting makeovers and they changed Madeline’s hair color and she wasn’t happy with the results.” Micah in a concerned voice asks, “is she ok?” Sean replies, “she wasn’t at first but, I told her she was still just as beautiful as ever and she is ok now.” Micah looks annoyed and walks off towards the room the ladies were in. The others wait until he is almost out of sight and Lorenzo yells, “YOU MAD BRO?” Micah stops, takes a deep breath and continues to walk off. They laugh and go back to their drinks and cigars. Micah makes his way to the ladies and asks, “what the hell is going on? What happened to your hair and why are you talking to Phoenix?” Abigale gives Micah a look that could kill and says, “well this is my natural hair color and Phoenix loved it. If you don’t like it then keep it moving.” Micah replies, “so, just because Phoenix liked it that means a lot to you? If his word means so much to you then why don’t you go be with him?” Abigale stands up, rips the cover from her and gets in Micah’s face saying, “maybe I will.” She storms off throwing the cover in Micah’s face. She walks in the room where the men are. Micah stands there in front of all the ladies looking embarrassed. He then follows behind Abigale, grabbing her arms tightly he says, “we are leaving right now.” Abigale looks back at Sean and Sean meets eyes with her. After riding down the elevator in silence, awkwardly staring at each other, they walk through the lobby and enter Micah’s Limousine. They sit across from each other and Micah looks at her with anger in his eyes the entire ride. Once they

pull up in front of her apartment Micah slaps Abigale. As soon as he makes , he covers her mouth to block her scream. He slowly begins to transform into his ravager state. Struggling to get free from Micah’s grasp Abigale notices Micah’s hand growing bigger and hairy with razor sharp claws. She decides to calm down. Micah speaking in his ravager state says, that’s a good girl. Now, let’s get something straight. If you ever embarrass me like that again you will regret it. If I ever hear so much as you conversing with someone else about Phoenix you will regret it. Do not make me anymore jealous than I am right now. Do we have an understanding?” She slightly nods her head yes. “Good.” He says. “now, you can go inside and get some rest. I’ll see you in the morning.” He removes his hand from her mouth and let her out the limousine. The limousine pulls off and Abigale notices a shadow figure in the distance. She turns around walking to her apartment. She pulls out her keys and just as she is about to stick the key in the door to unlock it the keys fall from her hands. She picks them up and look back. The shadow figure is gone. Nervously she puts the key in the door, unlocks it and goes inside quickly. She locks the door and runs into her bedroom slamming the door. She takes a few moments to catch her breath. Once she calms down she cuts the light on to see Sean standing a few feet in front of her. They stare at each other face to face directly in the eyes for a few seconds and Abigale begins to cry. She walks toward him and they hug each other tightly. A tear falls from Sean’s eye. They hold on to each other for a while and Sean says, “I’ve missed you Abi.” She looks at him saying, “I’ve missed you too Sean. So much. I prayed every day that you would find me.” Sean releases his grip and takes a seat on her bed. He asks, “why didn’t you tell me it was you?” She replies, “I was afraid you hated me for leaving you.” Sean grabs her hand. He says, “I promised to always protect you. I could never hate you Abi. I’m glad you’re ok.” She sits down next to Sean still holding his hand. She asks, “So, how long have you known it was me?” He laughs. “I had a feeling since I saw you at the club but, when I saw your natural hair tonight I was sure. You have really grown into a beautiful woman. I mean, I can see why you and Micah are together.” Abigale grabs Sean’s face saying, “we are only friends. I keep telling him that but he wants more. He doesn’t get it. Just dating. I don’t love him.” Sean gets up and walks to her dresser mirror saying, “I can help him better understand.” She looks at Sean through the mirror with a concerned look on her face. She says, “it’s not that simple Sean.” He replies, “Why isn’t it that simple? Are you in love with him or something?” “NO!” she says loudly. “He has resources in the unit. If anything would happen to him they will come for whoever had any part in it.” Sean steps back. He asks Abigale, “Did he tell you that to spook me?” She shakes her head no. “She replies, “His uncle is a captain

in the unit.” Sean says, “Yeah I heard.” She cuts back in saying, “I also found out what happened to our parents.” Sean freezes up. Abigale looks at him nervously. After a long minute of silence Sean says, “How did you find out?” She takes a few seconds to say, “I saw the report.” “HOW!” Sean scowls. “How did you see the report?” Abigale’s eyes begin to water up. She replies, “I ed the unit.” Sean eyes open wide shocked as he steps away from her. “I had access to all the reports. I didn’t know any other way into the city and it just happened. They ambushed me with guns pointing at me and I took the opportunity. But, I’m not with them. I just used it to find out what happened. I’m so sorry Sean. I know what you said to me when I left and it has haunted me every day. PLEASE FORGIVE ME! It was just a way in.” Sean says, “we can’t be seen together.” Abigale replies, “they don’t know who we are. I’m on the inside. I know what they know.” Sean heads for the door and Abigale slams the door closed placing her hand on Sean’s chest. Sean says, “let me out Abi.” Crying profusely Abigale says, “Please don’t leave me Sean. I need you. I can’t lose you again. I, I, I love you.” Sean looks down at Abigale shocked at what she said and Abigale looks at Sean with tears pouring from her face. He says softly, “what did you just say?” As she starts to respond he lightly wipe the tears from her face. “I love you Sean.” She says again. “I’ve always loved you. I didn’t know if we were ever going to see each other again. Then I saw you that night, watched your interview and I just knew it. The butterflies have been there ever since. I’m in love with y…” Sean kisses her ionately. They slowly make their way to her bed undressing each other. Once they are in the bed under the covers Abigale stops. Sean asks, “what’s wrong?” Breathing very deeply Abigale says, “I’ve never done this before. Have you?” Sean replies, “no. This is our first time then huh?” Abigale can’t stop smiling. Sean smiles back at her as they kiss and share a ionate night together filled with emotion then they fall asleep holding each other just like they did when they were kids. Waking up to knocking on the door, Abigale jumps up in a state of panic. She says, “Oh my god, it’s Micah.” With his speed, Sean gets up and gets dressed instantly and asks, “What’s he doing here?” “I forgot he said he was coming in the morning.” She answers. Sean just shakes his head. She looks at Sean annoyed saying, “well excuse me for being a little distracted.” Sean says, “we both know we have to keep playing our part so, how do we get out of this?” Abigale replies, “I’ll um, I’ll distract him and you run out.” Abigale goes to open the door and Micah is standing outside looking at her up and down. He asks, “what took so long? Why aren’t you ready? I told you I was coming in the morning last night.” She looks him in the eyes, puts her arms around his neck

and pulls him in for a kiss to make enough room for Sean to jet out. Seeing them kiss as he runs out Sean gets jealous and pops Micah in the back of the head. Micah grabs his head looking behind him and says, “What the hell was that?” Abigale covers it up saying, “I’m sorry. I thought you liked it a little rough.” She smiles and he laughs. He goes in for another kiss and Abigale turns her face. She says, “let me go hop in the shower and then we can go grab some breakfast.” As she closes her door she looks out to see Sean standing in the distance. She turns to see Micah sitting in her living room and looks back out the door and Sean is right in front of her. They kiss and Sean says, “I love you.” She says it back to him and Sean disappears. She closes the door to hear Micah ask, “can we hurry this up Madeline?” Her face goes serious and she sternly says,” oh, we can definitely hurry this up Micah.”

Chapter Eleven

Kiss and Tell

S ean arrives at his apartment. He takes a shower and lays on his bed for a few minutes until he hears knocking on the door. He opens the door to see Lorenzo looking confused holding his arms out to his sides. He says, “dude, what happened to you last night? You just disappeared on us.” Sean turns walking to sit on the arm of his couch saying, “yeah, sorry about that. I had a lot on my mind and I wasn’t feeling good so I shot out. I hope I didn’t disappoint anyone.” Lorenzo replies, “you just have to let me know when you’re going to just leave like that. Don’t worry though. We smoothed it over with the Alters. The other ladies were upset though.” Lorenzo laughs. Sean laughs saying,” I bet they were.” Lorenzo stops laughing and looks at Sean weird. He walks up to him and looks at him up, down and all around. “What are you doing?” Sean asked looking confused. “There is something different about you today.” Lorenzo answers. “Did you just get home? Is somebody here?” Sean gets up awkwardly saying, “Who would be here?” Lorenzo replies, “I’m not sure. There is something off with you now. You seem a bit more relaxed than usual.” Sean smiles walking towards the bar. “I have no idea what you are talking about.” Lorenzo pulls out his phone and begins to make a call. Sean looks at him nervously asking, “who are you calling?” Lorenzo answers, “oh, I’m just calling Ana. I’m sure she can make you talk.” Just then Sean has Lorenzo’s phone and hangs up. He says, “ok, I’ll tell you. But you must give me your word you will not repeat this to anyone. Not even Anastasia.” “you have my word.” Lorenzo replies. Sean takes a seat. He looks at Lorenzo, takes a deep breath and says, “I left to make sure Madeline made it home safe riding with Micah.” “I KNEW IT!” Lorenzo says jumping up. Sean looks at him annoyed asking, “you want me to finish or not?” He takes a seat calmly saying, “please continue.” Sean shakes his head, looking at the floor, taking a second and blurts out quickly, “I spent the night with Madeline because Madeline is actually Abigale. I found out last night at the Alters and I couldn’t say bye again. So, when I went over there we talked and I found out that she ed the unit. She itted she was in love with me and I kissed her and we spent the night together. There I said it all. On top of it all, we have to keep it a secret.” Lorenzo’s mouth and eyes are wide open when Sean looks up at him. Lorenzo in a complete state of shock says, “what?” Sean says, “you can’t

say anything about this to anyone. It’s too risky with our situations.” Lorenzo begins to get himself together. He paces a few times then says, “let me get this straight. Madeline is Abigale and she is with Micah. Now, not only are you two rivals but, you’re having sex with his girlfriend? Oh my god. (he laughs) This is priceless. Triple A is going have a field day with this.” Sean looks at Lorenzo with a straight face saying, “No Lorenzo. No one can know about this. You have to keep this a secret.” Lorenzo smacks his lips disappointed. “Do you know what this can do for the E.F.G.? This could bring in so many more fans. It would be like 20 th century wrestling. Except this is real. The storyline and the drama with a real fight to go along with it.” Sean shakes his head. “This is not a game Zo. This is my life. I know we are doing each other a favor but this is something I can’t do. Please Zo.” Lorenzo sits downs, exhales loudly and says, “Alright, I won’t say anything. You really owe me now though.” They hear knocking at the door. They both look at each other wondering who it could be. They dart for the door fighting over who is going to look out the peep hole first. Lorenzo turns to stone and knocks Sean out of the way. Sean says, “there’s not going to be too much more of that Zo.” Lorenzo laugh and with a big grin on his face he says, “I think you have a stalker.” Sean looks through the peep hole to see Abigale at his door. He opens to door quickly and in a shocked state he says, “Hi Madeline, how are you?” She replies, “great, we need to talk.” She walks in his apartment to see Lorenzo standing behind the bar. He says, “Oh, hi Madeline. What do we owe the pleasure of your company?” She looks at Sean wondering if Lorenzo knows what happened. Sean says, “Zo, can you excuse us for a few minutes please?” Lorenzo replies, “Sure, but don’t take too long. We have a schedule to keep.” He walks out and closes the door behind him. Abigale then jumps into Sean’s arms and kisses him ionately. She says, “I’ve missed you all morning. I couldn’t wait to see you again.” Sean replies, “I missed you too. I can’t stop thinking about last night.” They both smile and laugh while holding each other. Sean then asks, “how did you get away from Micah?” “We got into a little fight” she answers. “I told him I’ll call him when I’m over it.” Looking curious Sean asks, “does that mean I’ll see you tonight? She looks at him seductively biting her finger and replies, “is that even a real question?” Sean kisses her again and says, “I wish I had time now but Lorenzo has some business affairs lined up today. I’m definitely looking forward to tonight though.” She kisses him once more before they stop hugging. Abigale walks toward the door holding his hand. Before she grabs the door knob she says, “I hope you know that you have a lot of making up to do for leaving me hanging

right now. Just don’t be late.” Sean smiles then says, “oh, I won’t be late Abi.” As she walks out she says, “bye” very innocently. Sean stands there in a trance watching her walk away then realizes that Lorenzo was still waiting for him He shoots in his room to gets dressed then heads down to the lobby. Lorenzo is standing outside by the car with the door opened wondering what’s taking Sean so long. With a look of urgency on his face he glances at his watch. He says, aloud, “What is he doing?” Sean sticks his head out of the car and replies, “I was just wondering the same thing.” Lorenzo laugh as he gets in the car. “well, something sure put some pep in your step for me not to notice you me.” Sean says, “it’s just a good day.”

Chapter Twelve

Lights, Camera and Action

“W hat’s on the agenda today?” Sean asks. The car pulls off and Lorenzo look at his phone saying, “well, you have a photo shoot, an interview and (under his breath) a fight.” Sean looking pissed off scowls, “WHAT?!, what did you just say? I have a fight? When were you going to tell me this?” Lorenzo cuts him off, “just hear me out. It was spur of the moment. I forgot to tell you that there are a few fighters that were previous champions whom has the power to challenge as well and a few wants to fight you.” Lorenzo looks at him nervously. A moment es then Sean blurts out, “WOW! This is beautiful. You sure can ruin a day. You know that? A few huh? Just how much is a few?” Lorenzo holds up five fingers and turns his head while squeezing his face together. The car comes to a stop and Sean lets out a long sigh and says, “now, you owe me. This is some bull.” Anastasia opens the door interrupting Sean. She says, “hi boys. How are we this afternoon?” The car drives off as she looks at them both sitting in silence and says, “well, let’s not all speak at once.” She laughs and Sean replies, “I have plans later so all this better be over with as soon as possible.” After sitting in the car quiet for a while they pull up to a building. Sean angrily gets out of the car and walks into the building for his photoshoot. Anastasia looks at Lorenzo confused then says, “what did you do?” Lorenzo gets out the car saying, “I had to tell him about the champion challenges. He wasn’t just going to walk into the arena because we ask him to.” She giggles as she begins to walk and says, “don’t worry. I’ll take care of it like I always do. You men are so stupid.” Lorenzo catches up to her and says, “if we are so dumb, why do we rule the world?” Anastasia lightly rubs Lorenzo’s face saying, “Aww poor baby. If men didn’t have women behind them to fix their mistakes we would rule the world knowingly. Right now, we rule and let you men believe you rule this world. We do it for your egos. We want you men to feel confident because you’re really only good for one thing.” She gives him a light smack on the check then walks off. Lorenzo stands there stuck for a few seconds then shrugs his shoulders saying, “whatever. I’m rich.” They walk into Sean’s photoshoot. After a few more shots the photographer says, “Ok everyone, that’s a wrap.” Lorenzo checks his watch then says, “that was fast.” As Sean walks him he replies, “I’m quick when I want to be. Let’s go do this interview.” (Sean stops and turns

around) Oh, unless I must do something else like deliver a baby. Do I have to prep for surgery? Wait, I think I see orphans in a burning building I have to save.” He walks off and Lorenzo is standing there stuck again. As Sean is walking to the car, Anastasia catches up to him. She grabs his arm stopping him and she asks, “what’s wrong with you Sean?” He looks at her and says, “look Ana, I’m just not in the mood and I don’t need you using your power on me ok.” She replies, “I’m not going to do that. I’m talking to you. We all see that you are upset.” Sean says, “I was good before extra priorities got thrown at me.” She grabs his face, looking him in the eyes and says, “everything will be ok. You will be champion and we will help you. We all had to go through the bottom to get to the top. You are exceptional and you will prove it to everyone. You have no reason to be upset at this moment. Enjoy it while it last. Trust me.” He chuckles and says, “thanks for not tempting me.” She laughs and replies, “I have other powers as well. It’s called comion.” She kisses him on the cheek, they look at Lorenzo disappointed and get in the car. Lorenzo says, “what? What did I do?” Anastasia says, “it’s ok. Let’s just go to this interview with triple A.” Lorenzo gets in and taps on the driver window. The driver lowers the window and he says, “to the downtown studio district.” The driver nods his head and says, “yes sir.” Half an hour later they arrive at the studio district. They get out of the car and Sean looks around amazed. He says, “I’ve never seen anything like this.” Lorenzo smiles as he straightens his tie and says, “I’m glad you like it. There are up sides to everything. You just must hold on to possibilities. Sometimes, the impossible is more possible than you think. Always that. Even during a fight. Let’s go.” They both escort Anastasia into the building where the interview is being held. They check in at the front desk where an attractive receptionist works and she gets overly excited to see Sean there. She gets out of her seat saying, “Oh, my god. Phoenix, I love you. Can I get your autograph and take a picture with you?” Sean replies, “yes, that’s fine. What’s your name?” She says, “Kimberly.” He signs the autograph and puts his arm around her to pose for the picture. She says, “I’ll always cherish this moment Phoenix. Thank you so much.” They begin to make their way to the interview when Anastasia says, “why is it that every girl that seems thirsty and loose are always named Ashley, Becky or Kimberly? I mean, I’m just saying.” Lorenzo gives her a look and says, “I don’t know but I could name off a few girl names that come off jealous and caddy.” Sean laughs and Anastasia looks at him. He fixes his face immediately asking, “are we ready for the interview?” Ansyn walks up to the three of them and says, “how are we today my champs and hopeful?” Sean replies, “hopeful?

Hopefully I won’t knock you the.” Lorenzo stops him scowling, “YES! Yes, we are ready.” Ansyn has an uneasy look on his face as he says, “Ok, we go on in two minutes. Let’s all get into places.” Ansyn walks onto the stage and Sean looks annoyed. Anastasia snatches Sean’s arm and says, “you need to cool off. He may be annoying but he has power. Chill out and let us do most of the talking for you.” He nods his head yes still looking annoyed. She says, “I’m going to need you to smile when we get out there, so I need you to get it together.” Ansyn comes from commercial to introduce the three of them. “Today we have three very special guest with us. I’m so excited for this. Two of them are reigning champions in the Exceptional Fighting Grounds and one is up and coming.” Sean says, “I’m going to hurt him.” She elbows him. Ansyn says, “Welcome my guest, Lorenzo Stone, Anastasia Faye and Phoenix. (They walk on stage and the crowd goes crazy with applause. “Ok, ok, ok, everyone calms down.” An audience member screams out, “PHOENIX, I LOVE YOU!” Sean smiles and replies, “I love you too.” Ansyns then asks them, “so, where did Phoenix come from? Why didn’t we know about this exceptional fighter before?” Lorenzo replies, “well, we really took a liking to him and didn’t want him falling in with the wrong crowd, so we took him in. Anastasia adds, “plus, he is so adorable. Don’t you think ladies?” The women in the crowd goes crazy with applause. Ansyn says, “all right, we get it. He is attractive. So, what’s next for you three? What about your other champion Micah?” Sean replies, “what about him?” Ansyn says, “well, he has been champion for some time now and he has rarely been seen out with Anastasia and Lorenzo like you have.” In an annoyed tone Sean replies, “He is irrelevant.” Ansyn laughs while saying, “I beg to differ. He looked like he mattered on this day. Role the footage.” The show plays the surveillance footage from the restaurant where they had dinner with the Alters. Ansyn says to Sean, “Phoenix, what was that all about? I mean, we tried to freeze frame to see you get up and we couldn’t catch it. Is there something between you and the champ?” Sean looks at Lorenzo and Anastasia. They both motion for him to answer the question. Sean looks at Ansyn and replies, “he has something in his possession that belongs to me. What more can I say?” The audience laughs. Ansyn then says, “I don’t know. I think there’s more. I want to find out.” Ansyn stands up and says loudly, “LADIES AND GENTLEMEN PLEASE GIVE A ROUND OF APPLAUSE FOR OUR SPECIAL GUEST MICAH LYONS!” Micah comes out smiling and sits down opposite of the three. Sean not taking his eyes off Micah he says, “Lorenzo what is he doing here?” Lorenzo shrugs his shoulders saying, “I don’t know.” Ansyn looks at Micah smiling. He says, “What’s up Micah? How are you?” Micah replies, “Nothing much. Just enjoying being champ.” Ansyn says, “well, Phoenix here says you

won’t be champ too much longer.” Micah chuckles then says, “Well I guess we will have to find out now wont we.” Sean cuts in saying, “yeah you will.” The crowd goes crazy. Ansyn goes to the camera saying, “I can’t wait for the matchup between these two. It’s coming soon. In time, we will have these two powerhouses head to head. Catch me next time people. I’m Ansyn Ables and this is Ansyn Answers. Goodnight.” They end the show and with Sean and Micah starring each other down.

Chapter Thirteen

Action

A nastasia pulls Sean from the stage. Her and Lorenzo try to calm him down. Lorenzo says, “Sean, you will have your chance at him. I need you to keep your cool until then.” Anastasia in agreement with him says, “you are so touchy now. What changed since yesterday?” Sean nervously says, “nothing. Nothing has changed. What would make you think that?” She replies, “I’m not sure but I’m tempted to make you talk.” Sean smiles to suffice her and says, “I just don’t like that guy.” Lorenzo cuts in saying, “I’m sorry to be a bother but the fight is starting soon. We have to get to the arena.” They head to the E.F.G. arena and get ready for the fight. The announcer says, “And now, making his champion challenge debut, undefeated champion, you all know him, The Art.” He comes out the locker room jogging and begins to flip down the aisle until he reaches the ring and flips over the cage into the ring. Then the announcer continues, “in this corner, in his first champion challenge and second E.F.G. fight, Phoenix.” Sean makes his way to the ring. They meet in the middle with the announcer and referee. The referee says, “ok guys, this is a clean fight. Nothing below the belt. Win by knockout or submission. One round untimed. All powers allowed. Ready?” Sean looks over at Lorenzo and asks, “What does he mean powers are allowed? Is he.” Just then The Art hits Sean in the face. Sean touches his face looking at him then goes into stance. The Art goes into stance as well. They step towards each other in stance trying to read the other person. The Art begins to dance around trying to distract Sean, acting like he is about to attack. They get closer and Sean thinks, “what is he waiting for? Should I go offensive first or wait to counter?” Just as Sean is in his mind The Art attacks with a barrage of punches and tries to finish with a spin kick. Sean blocks them all and trips him when he tried the spin kick. Sean goes to kick The Art while he is down but he flips backwards and launches forward knocking Sean back with a punch to the face. Sean pauses for a second. Never being hit that hard before Sean gets angry. He turns in a slow circle stunned as he tasted his own blood. With an angry look on his face he makes eye with Lorenzo and Anastasia and they feel a chill go down their back. The Art is smiling at Sean as if he has the upper hand on him. Sean decides to turn on the speed. They both go back into stance and start to approach each other again.

Once they are somewhat close Sean shoots The Art to the other side of the ring. The crowd goes crazy. The Art is standing in the middle of the ring. Sean turns to the crowd, smiles and shoots The Art again to the other side of the ring. The Art begins to look nervous still in stance. Sean looks at The Art and tilts his head. In an instance, Sean jets The Art punching him in the face hard enough to stun him. Then Sean shoots him again punching him in the gut. The Art grabs his stomach. The crowd is at a lost at what is happening. The crowd only see The Art bracing his pain. Sean’s face goes straight. He shoots The Art with a barrage of punches from corner to corner so fast the audience doesn’t see Sean for about ten seconds. Sean appears and walks up to The Art, looks him in the face and The Art drops to the floor. The entire Arena is silent with every mouth dropped including Lorenzo and Anastasia. A few seconds and the crowd explodes. The crew rushes inside the ring and the announcer declare the winner Phoenix. He raises his hands and exits the ring. Sean goes back to his dressing room. Ansyn catches up with Micah for a live after match interview. He asks, “What did you think of the fight Micah?” He replies, “it was ok I guess. Nothing I haven’t seen before.” Ansyn looks at Micah confused and says, “that’ just it Micah, we haven’t seen anything like that. Especially not done to an undefeated champion.” Micah tries to look calm and collected. He says, “well, I’ve seen it before so it’s new to you.” Ansyn asks, “are you a little bit nervous to face Phoenix now?” Micah replies, “I’m never nervous to fight. This is what I do. I’ll see Phoenix soon. He walks away with Abigale on his side. Lorenzo and Anastasia meet Sean in his dressing room. They both look at him. “What?” Sean asks. Lorenzo burst out, “dude, I’m so sorry for having an ounce of doubt in you.” “Your first fight was against a normie. We needed to be sure.” Anastasia says. “Well, what do you think now?” Sean asks as he is taking off his tape. “You’re so going to kick Micah’s ass if that’s what you’re asking.” Lorenzo says while laughing at the same time. Anastasia cuts in saying, “you’re good Sean. Let’s never underestimate an opponent. Micah is the strongest Champ that weight class has ever seen.” Sean thinks to himself, “he’s just a ravager. Nothing too special.” Anastasia continues to say, “ok, you’re all set. Let’s go celebrate.”

Chapter Fourteen

Setting All In

M icah and Abigale are in the car riding home from seeing Sean’s fight. “Are you ok?” Abigale asks. “You have been quiet since the interview with Ansyn after the fight.” “I’m fine” he says with an irritated look on his face. “Why wouldn’t I be?” She gives him a sideways look as she says, “you seem a little worried if you ask me.” She turns her head looking out the window. Frustrated from that comment Micah begins to slowly change form. Abigale can see his reflection in the window. She turns to look at him and says, “I know you don’t want those problems. You’ve pulled that once. It won’t happen again.” Micah balls up his fist and slowly begin to turn back. “You really need to get a hold of yourself before something bad happens that you can’t come back from” Abigale implores. “What’s that supposed to mean?” Micah asks. She looks him in the face and says, “all I’m saying is, if you don’t fix that little temper of yours, it can really get you into some trouble.” “We are here sir.” The driver says to Micah. Micah helps Abigale out of the car. She looks around lost. She says, “I thought you were taking me home?” He closes the car door, smiles and says, “I thought a night out would do us good. You’ve been a little distant lately.” Abigale thinking to herself, “if you only knew.” Micah holds his arms out and he escorts her into a restaurant. Micah says, “I love your dress. You look beautiful tonight.” He smiles and she thanks him for the compliment. The host greets Micah. “How are we today champ?” “Just fine” he replies. “The usual tonight.” “Right this way” the host says as he guides them to their table. Across the restaurant, they notice a crowd at the bar. Micah asks the host, “what’s with the crowd?” He answers, ‘Oh, Lorenzo, Anastasia and Phoenix are over there celebrating his win.” In an annoyed tone Micah says, “well, let’s go have a celebratory drink with Phoenix, shall we?” Abigale replies, “How about we don’t and just leave?” She grabs his arm and he jerks it from her grip. He gets close up on Abigale and whispers, “I do what I want, when I want. Don’t ever try to stop me again. Now, I said let’s go have some drinks.” She raises her hands as if she is submitting to him. They both approach the bar. Sean notices Micah walking up and says, “just the man I wanted to see. So, what did you think about my fight? I know you were there. I took a selfie with you during the fight. See?” He shows him the picture in his phone. Micah looks embarrassed

and turns to take a shot from the bar. He replies, “it was ok. Nothing to celebrate.” The crowd goes quiet. Sean glances at Lorenzo and Anastasia and they smile. Sean turns toward the bar and takes a shot. “I guess you haven’t heard?” he says. Micah looking confused Sean continues to say, “after the fight, all the other champions backed out their challenge.” Sean steps in Micah’s face smiling saying, “It’s just you and me once I clear this weight class.” He shrugs his shoulders at Lorenzo and Micah replies, “well, I guess I’ll have to put an end to this charade sooner than I expected.” Micah grabs another shot from the bar and walks off. Abigale follows behind him looking back at Sean. You see the anger building in Sean’s face as they walk away. Sean takes another shot as they exit his sight. Micah and Abigale enter the car. Abigale with a look of aggravation says, “that was so much fun for me. Let’s do that again. It really did us some good to be out.” She smirks and looks away. Micah pours himself a drink from the limousine mini bar and chugs it. He says, “I can’t believe they all backed out. He must fight everyone in our weight class, but I’ll fix this. They will fight.” Abigale asks, “can you pour me a drink?” Micah in his anger pours her a drink quickly. She snatches it saying, “Thanks.” She takes a sip and continues to say, “Why are you so mad? Are you scared to fight him?” Micah looks at her in a state of confusion. He replies, “why would I be scared? Do I have a reason to be scared?” She replies, “I think you’re afraid to fight him. He is fast and strong. I told you this. You have the power to beat him. If you’re smart about it.” Micah pours himself another drink while saying, “you sound so sure.” He stares at her with a straight face not blinking and sets his glass down. Sitting quiet for a few seconds she looks out the window saying, “we trained together. I know what he was capable of then. He stayed to train more. I can only imagine what he can do now. (she looks at Micah) That’s why I said you have to be smart about it.” Micah finishes his drink, pulls out his phone and makes a call. Abigale asks, “who are you calling?” “My uncle.” He replies. Once he said it a nervous look comes over her face as she chugs her drink. Thinking to herself, “I have to tell Sean.”

Chapter Fifteen

Friends in High Places

T he next morning, Abigale rushes over to Sean’s Condo in panic to warn him of Micah. She bangs on the door impatiently waiting for Sean to open the door. He takes his time making his way to answer the banging and opens the door looking disappointed. “Oh, it’s you.” He says as he walks toward the living room. She follows behind him asking, “are you expecting someone else?” He shakes his head no. “Did you have a good time with your boyfriend last night?” He sits down and she quickly sits next to him. “Look, you know what this is. You know what we need to do. Now, you can’t handle it.” She says. Trying to calm herself she takes a few deep breaths. “I came over here to warn you of Micah but it seems like you are in your feelings and not focused.” Looking annoyed he gets up and walks behind his bar. He grabs a bottle of vodka and begins to pour himself a drink. “Yeah, a little too much celebrating last night. I had nothing else to do since I was left hanging.” She gets up and walks to the bar. She takes the drink from him slamming it on the bar. “He wouldn’t leave me alone but nothing happened.” Sean rolls his eyes, moves her hand and takes his drink back. “I wanted to be with you. I didn’t want him there. But, I needed to know what he was planning to do.” Walking from behind the bar with drink in hand Sean turns around to Abigale holding his arms out angrily. “So, I have no reason to be a little Jealous and angry right now? My girlfriend, at least I think is still only my girlfriend, spent her night with another man. I think that justifies my anger right now.” He takes a sip from his glass before he plops down on his couch. Abigale beginning to get irritated says, “I’m only yours. Always have and always will be. I’m only acting to be with him.” Sean squinting his eyes at her he says, “So, what is it that is so important for you to tell me about Micah?” Abigale walks behind the bar and grabs the bottle of vodka and pours herself a drink. She chugs the whole thing and places the glass on the bar looking down nervously. Taking a deep breath, she says, “Micah called his uncle.” Quickly standing Sean scowls, “WHAT?!” She pours herself another drink and holds the glass in her hand. Still not looking up yet. “He got his uncle to force all the past champions to fight you.” Sean shoots out of sight and returns with his phone to

his ear. “Lorenzo, what the hell is going on?” He places Lorenzo on speaker phone. “I just found out myself. I just got a chance to check my messages. Last night was bad.” He laughs. “How did you find out?” Quickly Sean replies, “Abigale….” He drops his head knowing he messed up by saying her name. Abigale picks her head up looking at Sean as she walks up to him. Sean mouths, “I’m sorry.” She pushes him in the chest, walks back behind the bar, swallows her vodka, drops her head again while pulling her hair. “Is she still there?” Lorenzo asks. “Yeah, she is still here.” Sean says. Lorenzo chuckles. “How are you Abigale?” Abigale being angry with an annoyed tone she quickly replies, “Hi Lorenzo.” He asks, “Can you tell us what he plans to do next?” Picking her head up she takes another sip from her glass. Pausing for a few seconds she sighs. “You both already know about the champs being forced to fight.” Looking at Sean nervously she continues to say, “His uncle wondered why Micah was so concerned about you and he wants to fight you too.” Lorenzo and Sean both scowl, “WHAT?!” simultaneously. After a few seconds, Lorenzo breaks the silence. “Let me look more into this and I’ll let you know all the details and take care of this.” Sean sits down shaking his legs. Abigale gets on her knees in front of Sean. “You do know he was the only one who survived the attack on our parents don’t you?” Sean looks away shaking his head yes. “I searched the files. He didn’t authorize the attack but he did lead it. He knows there were two children put into hiding. He was badly hurt and ed out into a coma for a month once he got back. When he awakened, he couldn’t a lot.” Sean gets up moving her to the side pacing back forth. “I knew he was the only one who survived and that he was Micah’s uncle. If he fights me he will know who I am if he fought my father. How am I supposed to fight him? He killed our parents. We can’t kill in an E.F.G. fight.” Shrugging her shoulders with her head down Abigale begins to cry. “I think Micah is plotting to make it look like an accident. He wants you to fight all the champions so about time you get to fight him-he can make it look like an accident.” Sean picks Abigale up from the floor saying, “accident? What do you mean an accident?” With tears pouring from her face and whimpering she says, “he wants to kill you.” Sean hugs her tightly and with a fierce look on his face he says, “I’m not the one that is going to die.” Hearing a knock at the door they release their hug. Loudly Sean asks, “Who is it?” From the other side of the door they hear, “It’s Zo and Ana.” Sean shoots to open the door then shoots back to Abigale helping her straighten up her face. They walk into the living room and Anastasia stops as she stares at Abigale

wondering why she was there. Abigale looks at Sean. Under his breath he says, “she doesn’t know.” Sean looks at Lorenzo and motions to Anastasia. “It’s ok for her to know?” Abigale replies, “If you both trust her then I do too.” Out of the loop and looking lost-Anastasia puts her purse down on the table and says, “I guess I’m the only one that’s not a part of this inside joke?” In a nervous tone Lorenzo says, “Anastasia, I would like to introduce you to.” “Anastasia cuts in. “I know who Madeline is. She is Micah’s girlfriend. Why is she here?” She crosses her arms looking straight at Abigale. “If you would let me finish. Anastasia, I would like to introduce you to Abigale.” Her mouth and arms drop. She points at her in silence looking confused. “Wait, you are Abigale? The Abigale that Sean grew up with? The other legendary child? Lorenzo, you knew about this and didn’t tell me?” Crossing her arms again she glares at Lorenzo with a death stare. “Sean asked me not to say anything. Otherwise I would have told you. You know I would.” Anastasia goes to Abigale holding her hand out. “Nice to formally meet you Abigale.” Abigale smiles and shakes her hand. “I’m sorry for deceiving you all. I had to stay hidden.” Smiling at Abigale for a while Anastasia says, “I thought you were cute before with the different hair but I see now why Sean couldn’t forget you. I wouldn’t forget you.” She winks and walks away laughing. Laughing back Abigale whispers to Sean, “is she flirting with me?” Sean laughing himself reassures Abigale, “she is messing with you. She treats me like a little brother. She is protective over me.” Lorenzo drops his phone, pours himself a drink, takes a sip and says, “Ok, everything Madeline-I mean Abigale said is true. Sorry, I’m getting used to it. All the five past champions that challenged you have picked back up their challenge.” Sean looks at Lorenzo confused. “So, what about Micah’s uncle?” Lorenzo chugs his drink. Looking at Sean serious he says, “He got awarded to enter the E.F.G. by the government and even though he is beyond weight in your weight class-he made them force me to make you fight him.” Sean stands still with his head down and fist balled up. “Micah is this afraid of me? He wants to make calls and make changes. Lorenzo, you are the owner, let’s make a few changes ourselves.” Lorenzo nods.

Chapter Sixteen

Game Changer

Two weeks later…

S itting down with much anticipation of the announcement, Ansyn gets prepared for his show. “Are we about ready to go live?” The producer tells him, “Countdown in 5, 4, 3, 2, “They point at him in silence. “Hello, this is Ansyn Ables and welcome to Ansyn Answers. I have a lot of things to address today. First, let me start by saying I’m excited about what’s going on in the E.F.G. I can’t sit still. Are you all Excited?” The crowd goes into an uproar and he waits until they calm down to continue. “I just found out moments ago that the past champions that backed out of their challenge fight with Phoenix has challenged him once again. Not only that but there is a surprise challenger that hasn’t been named yet. If Phoenix makes it through the five campion challenges he will face this surprise challenger before he meets Micah for the Middle weight championship. I know you all have been waiting for the champion challenges to begin and so have I. So, let me welcome my guest back to the stage. Here he is ladies and gentlemen, the middle weight champion in the E.F.G. Micah Lyons.” The crowd applauses him. He waves and shakes hands with Ansyn then takes a seat. Ansyn does the same and quiets the crowd. “So, how are you feeling about what’s going on in the E.F.G. now?” Micah smiles while looking at the crowd. “I’m ecstatic about what’s to come. I have someone that’s so eager to fight me going up against E.F.G. elite fighters and a special guest.” Ansyn says quickly, “This special guest, do you know who it is?” Micah laughs, “we will just have to wait and see who it is.” The crowd boo’s Micah’s answer. “I can promise that whomever it is will make sure to give Phoenix a very hard time if not stop his little win streak.” Silence over the studio and Ansyn says, “it sounds to me like you know very well who It is. I’m not going to dig anymore. But, I think I might have some news for you as well.” Micah sits up straight in his seat looking attentive. “It seems that some changes have been made with the rules in the E.F.G. Since there haven’t been so many champion challenges in the E.F.G. ever they felt it only seems fair for the defendant to have stipulations.” Micah asks,

“what are those stipulations?” Ansyn flips through a few pages of paper before replying, “in the event of multiple challenges the defendant has the option of fighting a match one on one or in a two on two. The defendant gets to choose his or her team mate but not the opponents. If the team mate refuses then he will have to fight the two opponents one on two. So, he will have to be careful whom he chooses. He could also choose to fight each opponent one on one but I would guess that he will try to get to you as fast as possible.” Micah says, “I’m sure he will try to get to me quickly but he has some extremely great fighters to get through to get to me.” The crowd applauses. Ansyn stands, “we have so much exciting fighting to look forward to and I can’t wait for it. I want to thank my guest Micah and I want to thank my studio audience. I also want to thank those of you watching at home and I’ll be keeping you up to date with the E.F.G. This is Ansyn Ables and I’ll see you next time on Ansyn Answers.” Ansyn shakes hands with Micah as they go to commercial. Micah walks with Ansyn off stage. Ansyn says, “that was a great set. Thanks Micah.” Micah stops him by grabbing his arm. Ansyn looks at Micah’s hand then looks him in the eyes. “Is there a reason you’re grabbing me like this?” Micah removes his hand from Ansyn’s arm. “What else do you know about the changes in the rules that have been made?” Ansyn brushes himself off and fixes his clothes. “I know that you made calls and made the champion challenges happen again. I think that you are genuinely afraid of Phoenix.” Micah gets angry and grabs Ansyn by the collar. Everything slows down in time. Ansyn only moves and he removes Micah’s grip from his collar and stands behind him. Time returns and Micah is lost and confused by seeing no one in his grasp. Ansyn asks, “you were saying?” Micah turns around shocked. “How did you do that?” Ansyn replies, “I don’t know what you mean but can we finish this conversation another time. I have a lot to catch up on.” Still in a confused state Micah says, “yeah, we can talk at a later time.” Ansyn nods and walks away. Micah walks into his dressing room where Abigale is waiting. “You look like you just seen a ghost. Are you ok?” Micah doesn’t respond and walks to his room bar and pour himself a drink. He takes a sip and Abigale pushes his head to get his attention. “What is wrong with you?” Micah looks at her for a few seconds and replies, “I don’t know what just happened but Ansyn did something I can’t explain. I grabbed him and he ended up behind me. You think he has powers? Is he a quickening too?” Abigale replies, “If he was and you grabbed him, wouldn’t you have his clothes or something in your hands?” Just then security comes in saying, “are you ready? We have to clear this room now.” They gather their things, walk out towards Micah’s limousine and enter it. Micah

grabs another drink, takes a sip and sits there quiet for a while. Abigale ends the silence. “you need to tell me something because this silence is doing nothing but making me think about things I shouldn’t be.” Micah finishes his drink. “I need to talk to my uncle.”

Chapter Seventeen

Reassurance

W alking up to the wall of New Chicago, a stranger is greeted by the unit. They announce who they are and ask him to do the same while surrounding him with soldiers and guns but with him barely able to walk and speak he says under his breath, “my name is Felix Lyons.” He es out and they take him into custody heading to the medical district. He is treated and given medical treatment as necessary. They check his pulse and note any changes. After a few days, he awakens to his brother at his side. Chris says, “glad to see you awake bro.” Felix motions for his water that’s on his tray. He lifts his head, Chris gives him his water and he relaxes back in his hospital bed. After a few moments of silence Chris asks, “What happened? Who did this to you?” Felix mutes the television and looks at his brother Chris. “You the last mission I went on with you? The two families that we went after?” Chris nods his head yes and Felix coughs hard. “I came across a man and he reminded me of Adam Phoenix. I stopped him with multiple ravagers and I ordered them to attack. As soon as I turned around he was in my face. I’ve only seen that once in my life. I didn’t see him attack them or me. I awoke and my first thought was you. Do they know what happened with that mission?” Chris gets up and closes the hospital room door. He says, “no, that’s why you left because we were the only two left alive. Why would I say what happened? We deal with things our way. Now, how should I deal with this? Do you even know where this person who reminded you of Adam is headed?” Felix pushes himself up in his bed. He says, “I’m sure it was Adam’s son.” Chris grabs a pillow from the neighboring bed in the room. Felix begins to panic as he looks around. He pleads with Chris. “Bro, I wouldn’t lie to you. I only came here to inform you.” He looks at the television to see Sean in a commercial. “Him, it was him. He did this to me and my gang.” Chris looks at the television, puts the pillow behind Felix head and grabs his phone.

Chapter Eighteen

preparation

S ince they changed the rules, all the E.F.G. fighters must be present at the weigh in for the Champion challenge for Sean to select his partner if he chooses to do so. Sean walks to his seat with Lorenzo and Anastasia as the Alters stand behind them as Sean’s sponsor for the first time. Micah sits with his manager and Abigale. The announcer welcomes them along with the five champions sitting in front. “We are here to announce who will be fighting the first challenge.” The announcer points to Sean. He says, “I choose to fight with a partner for the first match but I’ll let them decide who wants to fight as a team before I announce who I choose as my partner.” The crowd goes into an uproar. The announcer quiets them and looks to his side at the challengers. The first challenger raises his hand. A mysterious looking man in a dark hooded robe shadowing his face. “I’ll fight with a partner. I’ll do anything to end this charade.” The crowd boo’s him as Sean asks Lorenzo, “who is that?” Lorenzo replies, “that’s Wanted. He’s always been mysterious. He’s a Manipulator. I hope you’re not weak minded because he can make you lose the fight. I’ll it that I’m a little nervous for this fight because it could work.” Sean looks confused. “A Manipulator? How exactly does his power work?” Lorenzo gives off a sigh as he replies, “You know what Ana can do right?” He waits for a while to respond as Sean thinks for a few seconds and nods. “He can do what she can but he can actually control your actions. If you are weak minded he will have full control.” The next challenger raises his hand. A well-dressed man with women standing behind him. “It doesn’t matter who he chooses. I’ll end this quick.” The crowd boo’s him as the announcer sets it in stone. “There we have it. Our two challengers for Phoenix are Shift and Wanted. Now, to hear who Phoenix chose as a partner.” The announcer points to Sean again. Sean smiles and says, “I choose Anastasia Faye as my partner.” The crowd is in disbelief of his decision. The announcer speaks to the E.F.G. judges to in the book if his choice is within the rules. After a short discussion the announcer says, “according to the new rules. The one being challenged has the right to partner with anyone that is an active member in the E.F.G. if they agree and he has chosen another champion.” Everyone looks at Anastasia. She slowly

gets up, seductively winks her eye and nods yes to the invitation. “So, there you have it. We have our first match. One week from today it will be Shift and Wanted against Phoenix and Anastasia Faye. I can’t wait to see the outcome.” The crowd applauses as the challengers get up and walk off stage. Sean, Anastasia, Lorenzo and the Alters walk backstage. Sean goes right into his dressing room. They all follow behind him. They look at him through his mirror as he sits there quiet. “WHAT?” he scowls. Ana asks, “why did you pick me? We didn’t even know you were going to fight with a partner let alone me.” Sean smirks. “Once Zo told me Wanted was a manipulator I thought of you. I can’t stand to him alone. I’m not weak minded but my mind only goes so far. You’re able to tempt me. He will be able to manipulate me. I thought maybe you could counter his power.” Lorenzo cuts in, “you may have a point there. But why haven’t you told us your plans?” Sean looks at Lorenzo with a look of shock on his face holding his chest. “I thought we just surprised each other with plans on a day to day basis. I’m sorry if it changed or is alarming. You have to let me know when our friendship changes.” They all laugh and Michael says, “is it possible for us to sponsor all of you?” A silence comes over the room and a few seconds later Lorenzo and Anastasia both smile and yells, “YES!” Raquel says with a confident smirk, “we love all of your energy and we think all of you would be one of our greatest investments. You can keep all your other sponsors. I’m sure we will be held higher than them.” She walks out of the room and Michael follows behind her saying, “we will go over the details later tonight.” He waves as he walks out and Lorenzo hugs and kisses Anastasia. Sean says, “Oh wow! That’s the first public display of affection I’ve seen between you two. Are you in love or excited to make more money?” He laughs. The two of them reply, “BOTH!” As they glare into the others eyes. Sean stands up fixing his suit. “So, Ana, I was thinking, since you’re a temptress and can manipulate people maybe you can help me strengthen my mind to resist his power?” She looks away from Lorenzo at Sean, “I can do my best but our powers don’t work the same. I manipulate by asking or telling men what to do. My power doesn’t work on women. His works on anyone with a weak mind. Men or women and he can control their actions.” Sean gives off a long sigh… “Ok, well we have a week to train so I guess we will start tomorrow.” Sean, Lorenzo and Anastasia walk out of the dressing room to be ambushed by Micah and his lackey champions down the hall. Micah steps up to Sean. “You think you are so cute asking Zo to change the rules. You think it’s going to help?” Sean shrugs his shoulders saying, “Meh, I don’t know. What do you think?” Micah

gets even closer to Sean and fixes his tie. He whispers in Sean’s ear, “I think you’re going to die.” He begins to walk away. “Ok, well I guess we will see what happens in the matches Phoenix. Hopefully I’ll be seeing you soon.” Sean adjusts his tie and looks at Ana and Zo. They both give him a look of disbelief and Sean turns his head to see Micah just about to leave the hallway. He jets off and appears in front of Micah adjusting his tie. “We will be seeing each other real soon. Sooner than you think.” He looks Micah in the face and shoots back to Ana and Zo as they are laughing hysterically while Micah stares back angrily. Sean points back with his thumb, “this guy.” He laughs and they all walk out.

Chapter Nineteen

Epiphany

M icah and his lackeys of champions walk off after the confrontation. In silence, they all look at Micah. Noticing the eyes watching he stops. “WHAT?!” He scowls. Wanted says, “you had your uncle make us fight him and you punk out like that in front of all of us. You must be really scared of this guy.” Micah slams his hand against the wall in beast form. Wanted holds his hands up acting as if he is afraid. “Hey guys, who am I?” They all look at Micah and laugh. “Don’t try to intimidate me little boy. Your uncle pulled strings for us to fight but you don’t want these problems. It’s only for the money.” Wanted walks away staring back at Micah along with the other champions. Micah grits his teeth and gives off a low growl. The next morning Micah receives a call for from his uncle Chris, “It’s early. What could be so important. Why are you calling me uncle…?” On the other end of the phone, Chris says, “you need to wake up anyway. But on another note, your little problem is my old problem.” Micah readjusted the phone to his ear saying, “What? What do you mean your old problem?” Chris hesitates to respond then replies, “your father is back and he thinks that Phoenix is the son of Adam.” Micah sits in silence. “It only makes sense. He is a quickening like Adam and his name is Phoenix. Adam had two sons. We know both their names. His first son works for us. We can end all this now.” Micah still in silence rubs his face vigorously. “Does Brian know that Phoenix is his brother?” Chris replies, “I don’t think so. He is higher rank than me so I wouldn’t know but we would’ve been sent for him if anyone knew.” Micah laughs and gets up out of bed. “I’m ready for this nuisance to be gone either way. They want to change the rules and now we can. He’s wanted which mean he needs to be subdued by any means necessary. I guess I won’t have to fight him after all.” They hang up the phone and Micah gets up out of bed to shower. He dresses himself and heads over the Abigale’s place. Micah knocks on Abigale’s door. A few seconds later she opens the door in her towel looking surprised. “What are you doing here?” Micah silently walks in with a sadistic smirk on his face. Abigale asks him again in an annoyed tone, “what are you doing here Micah?” He takes a seat and crosses his legs. He says, “so, you and Phoenix are old friends right Madeline?” Abigale crosses her arms

saying, “yeah, I told you that already.” He smiles at her and says, “let me ask you again. You and phoenix are old friends right…Abigale?” Her eyes widen, her mouth drops and Micah leaps at her covering her mouth. He slams her against the wall. She grunts as her head and back hits the wall. In a beastly voice Micah says, “I knew there was something special about you.” She tries to struggle away from his grip but his grip only gets stronger hurting her more. “You both are wanted by the unit. Both your parents were killed in cold blood by my uncle and I know who you really are. Now, you are going to do what I tell you to do or what happened to your parents will happen to you.” Micah begins to run his hand down to her towel. Tears begin to pour from Abigale’s eyes as he rips off her towel. She Inhales deeply through her nose and Screams as loud as she can. Micah is thrown in the wall behind him as she grabs the towel and runs out of her apartment. Micah recovers and transform into his ravager state. He runs out of her apartment and stops as he looks around. He picks up on her scent and drops to all fours. She turns around and they meet eyes. In shock and scared she tries to ask people to help but no one stops. Micah begins to gain on her and she turns to him dropping to her knees crying profusely. Looking at him angrily she grits her teeth. Micah stands up and slowly walks up to her. Abigale’s eyes glow red. Micah notices the change but still holds his demeanor. He says, “I think you made a mistake. Now, let’s go back inside and finish what we started.” Abigale stands up in silence with her fists balled up while keeping her head down. Her towel slowly begins to burn off. A fear comes over Micah but he tries to subdue her before she can react. He leaps at her and she takes a short breath breathing in fire. Right before he strikes her, she screams a tornado of fire that burns every piece of clothing and hair from him. He falls to the ground in excruciating pain. She stands over his body, “I told you to never touch me again.” She takes a deep breath in and Sean covers her mouth. She looks at Sean, he notices her eyes and looks down at Micah cringing in pain. He takes off his suit jacket, covers Abigale and shoots her back to his condo. He walks her to his couch asking her, “what happened?” She takes a moment and replies, “I don’t know what that was. I was so angry and fire…” Sean interrupts her saying, “you used what Cyril calls Linkage. It’s not something to really learn. It’s developed and yours came from your anger. Now, tell me what happened.” She looks at him replying,” he knows who we are.” Sean sits next to her. “He just showed up telling me to do as he says or the same thing that happened to our parents would happen to me. He ripped off my towel so I screamed and ran. You saw what happened after that.” Sean grabs his phone and calls Lorenzo. “Hey Zo, this fight isn’t going to happen. Can you and Ana come

over here please? And can you have Ana bring some clothes? I’ll tell you when you get here.” A while later Lorenzo and Anastasia show up at Sean’s condo. They both see Abigale sitting on the couch silent. They both look at Sean and Anastasia grabs Abigale’s hand and walks her to the bathroom. Sean briefs Lorenzo and Abigale does the same for Anastasia. The girls walk back into the living room after Abigale dresses and Anastasia says, “what are we going to do now?” Lorenzo shakes his head, “I don’t know.” Anastasia looks at Lorenzo in disbelief. “We can’t just stand by and do nothing. We both knew who they were. We are involved no matter what.” Lorenzo pours himself a drink at the bar. He takes a squig and says, “The best we can do is cover it up. The problem is Micah. He is not going to let this go and neither is his uncle.” Sean hugs Abigale and kisses her forehead. “We had a deal Zo. You said any exception in the E.F.G. was excused from The Unit.” Lorenzo replies, “what does that have to do with anything?” Sean walks up to him. “So that means I’m not wanted and if you draft Abigale into the E.F.G. she won’t be wanted either.” Anastasia crosses her arms as she sits on the arm of the couch. “He has a good point Zo.” Lorenzo finishes his drink laughing and says, “done and done.” Sean smiles and laughs along with Lorenzo.

Chapter Twenty

Aftermath

A fter receiving calls of a fight in the street. The Unit shows up and Chris finds his nephew unconscious with burns all over his body. They take him back to the Medical district. After a few days of treatment, he awakens. They place him in the room with his father and Chris follows behind. Felix sits up. “What happened to him?” Chris replies, “It seems like he got burned.” Felix tries to get out of bed but Chris stops him. “What do you think you’re doing?” Felix stares at Micah while getting in his wheelchair saying, “you promised you would watch over him.” Chris rolls Felix over to Micah and says, “Your little boy is a little bit of a loose cannon as they would say. The fame has gone to his head”. Micah wakes up with a tired voice saying, “I’m not a little boy anymore. I can take care of myself.” Felix says, “are you ok? What happened to you?” Micah tries to sit up but his burns prevent him from doing so. Chris says, “don’t try to move just yet. You’ll be ok in a week or so. You’re lucky you’re a ravager otherwise these burns wouldn’t heal.” Felix gives him some water through a straw and waits for him to respond.” He says, “The girl did this.” Felix asks him, “what girl?” Micah coughs angrily and says, “Abigale! She said her name was Madeline Waters but she is Abigale Maddox and she was the little girl with Sean Phoenix. I thought I could control her.” Chris places his hand on Micah’s leg and he grunts in pain. Chris laughs and says, “So tell me, how did that work out for you?” Felix brushes his hand off Micah’s leg saying, “this isn’t a laughing matter. We have to do something about this.” Chris takes a seat and thinks for a while. Felix gives Micah more water and Chris replies, “we already had a plan for Sean. I’d have to figure out what to do about her. Regardless of her name she still ed The Unit. But that won’t solve our problem with Sean. He obviously knows that we know about him now. They will come up with a way to cover this. We’re going to have to do the same thing because if The Unit officers find out anyone survived that mission then we both are dead. But let’s just try to kill two birds with one stone.” Chris takes his phone out and makes a call.

Chapter Twenty-One

The Change Up

Hours later…

“H ello and welcome to Ansyn Answers. I’m you’re host Ansyn Ables and I am excited to say we have some E.F.G. news for you. First, let’s recap what has happened up until now. We have our reigning champion Micah not able to find any formidable opponents for a while and then out of thin air Phoenix burst into the scene breaking records in his debut fight. Every fighter in their weight class has forfeited to Phoenix putting him right at to challenge Micah. Five previous champions chose to challenge him then reversed their challenge after seeing the bout against The Art. Days later, they challenge him again and the first fight is scheduled in a few days.” “Now, on to the new news. I’ve just received word that Micah was injured today in a training session. He will not be fully healthy when his fight comes. There is a major change to the fight beforehand though.” Ansyn smiles at the camera. “The first match will not be a four-man match. No, in fact, it will all end at once.” Ansyn gets louder with more excitement. “IT WILL BE A TEN MAN MATCH!” Ansyn spins in his chair and stands up ecstatic. “It will be all champions against, Phoenix, Anastasia Faye and three more of their choosing. But get this, we won’t know who they choose until they meet for the fight. I can’t wait people. This will be the new clash of the titans. In just a few days it will go down. They are expanding the cage as we speak and it will cover the entire floor. This is going to be classic people. I hope you got your tickets. I got mine. This is Ansyn Ables and goodnight.” Sean turns off the television as they all sit around it. “How were they able to do that? Zo, did you let them do this?” Lorenzo replies, “That was my median. They wanted you to fight all five of them back to back. After the incident that occurred earlier, Chris found out I drafted Abigale into the E.F.G. and he was highly pissed off. It was the best I could do.” Still looking distraught from earlier Abigale asks, “who’s going to fight with you two?” Sean sits down looking confused. “I don’t know. Ana and Zo has to know someone.” Anastasia looks at Lorenzo frustrated sitting down with her arms and legs crossed. “I know you

don’t think I’m going to be the only one pulled into this fight Lorenzo. You better saddle up cowboy.” Sean stands up and walks over to the bar, making a drink saying, “Ok, there you go. We have three. We need two more.” Abigale says, “one more. I’m fighting too.” Sean shakes his head no and says, “I can’t let you get hurt. Look at what happened earlier.” Abigale cuts him off saying, “Yeah, look at what happened. If you didn’t come he wouldn’t be alive now.” She takes Sean’s drink and walks by the window. Sean sighs. “I guess we only need one more.” Lorenzo laughs and they all look at him. He says, “I know just the right person.”

Chapter Twenty-Two

Old Friends

T he next day, Lorenzo is sitting alone outside a diner checking his emails in his phone. He says, “Hello, Jason.” Just then a man appears in the seat across from him. He says, “I could never sneak up on you. I guess some things never change.” They shake hands laughing. Lorenzo asks, “How have you been?” He replies, “I’ve been good. Just hopping around from place to place. How about you?” Lorenzo puts his phone down saying, “I’ve been great until recently. I’ve run into a little issue and I was hoping you could help me out.” A waiter comes to the table and asks them what they want to order. They both order a drink. The waiter walks off and they continue their conversation. “How on earth could I help out the great Lorenzo Stone?” Jason says sarcastically. The waiter comes back and hands them their drinks. Lorenzo takes a sip and replies, “I need you to come out of retirement and fight with me.” Jason looks around laughing and says, “you have got to be kidding me. You want me to fight? With you?” Lorenzo cuts in, “not just me. Me and three other people.” Jason takes a swallow of his drink then asks, “exactly who are you fighting that you of all people need help fighting?” Lorenzo sits up straight and replies, “it’s a long story and I will fill you in only if you’re up for it. You know I’m good for it.” Jason stares at Lorenzo in silence for a few seconds and chugs his drink. “You’re lucky we go way back Zo. I’m in. Now, tell me what I’ve just gotten myself into.” Lorenzo smirks, leans back in his chair and begin to go over the details.” After meeting with Jason, Lorenzo goes over to Sean’s condo. He knocks and Sean opens the door. Lorenzo walks in quietly with a smirk on his face. Sean looks at him curiously as he walks in. Lorenzo goes straight to Sean’s bar and pours him and Sean a drink. Sean sits outside the bar looking at Lorenzo. He es Sean his drink and Sean scowls, “WHAT THE HELL?” Lorenzo laughs and replies, “We good bro. We more than good.” Sean takes a sip of his drinks still looking confused. “please excuse my ignorance but, why are we good?” Lorenzo puts his drink down saying, “I told you I know the perfect person and he agreed to fight with us. I drafted him today.” Sean’s eyes widen. “who is he?” Lorenzo replies, “He doesn’t want that to be known until the day of the fight. That was his stipulation.” Lorenzo walks over to the couch and sits down

crossing his legs. Sean sits opposite of him and asks, “What’s his power?” Lorenzo chuckles saying, “I can’t tell you that either.” Sean chugs his drink and slams it on the coffee table. “What can I know?” Lorenzo smiles, stands up fixing his jacket and walks towards the door. Before he leaves he says, “we good” and walks out. Sean still left confused he walks into his bedroom where Abigail is laying down watching television. Abigail mutes the television asking, “who was that?” Sean lays in the bed and replies, “Lorenzo. He said we good. He couldn’t tell me who he was though.” A look of confusion comes over Abigail’s face. “He couldn’t tell you? What is this relationship you two have where you don’t tell each other important shit?” Sean shakes his head while laughing. “He’s not going to go into a fight unprepared. I trust him. You should trust him too if you trust me.” Abigail sighs and Sean kisses her on the cheek and they go back to watching television. Lorenzo arrives home where Anastasia has been patiently waiting for him. Sitting at the dinner table in lingerie she says, “How was your day sweetheart?” Lorenzo takes off his jacket and hangs it up. He sits down at the table opposite Anastasia and replies, “It was very productive.” She gets up and places food on his plate. He grabs her roughly and pulls her on his lap. He kisses her softly then says, “we have nothing to worry about.” She kisses him back. “Then I don’t have any questions. Let’s eat and have dessert.” Lorenzo chuckles while saying, “you read my mind.”

Chapter Twenty-Three

Fight Night

T he days have past and the night of the fight has come. Sean and Abigail meet Lorenzo and Anastasia at the arena in the dressing room. Anastasia walks in. “now, you get to see the monster inside me.” Lorenzo right behind her shaking his head. Abigail says, “you two seem really confident about this considering the fact they are trying to kill us.” Lorenzo getting undressed replies, “the champs aren’t going to kill us. However, they are going to try to beat us near death. It won’t happen though.” Sean cuts in, “how can you be so sure?” Lorenzo holds his arms out replying, “have I ever let you down?” Sean stares at him and Lorenzo shakes his head. “We good ok.” Abigail asks, “where is our mystery guy? I thought he was supposed to be here today?” Anastasia replies, “If he said he will be here then he will. Trust us.” An attendant knock on the door and says, “It’s almost show time guys”. Lorenzo in his robe steps in front of the door facing them says, “ok, we will let Sean and Ana go out first and after they introduce the champs then we will let Sean introduce me first, then you and last it will be Hopps.” Sean says, “Hopps? That’s his name?” Lorenzo replies, “Yeah, that’s his name. Ok everyone. Let’s go have some fun.” He smiles then turns to open the door and they all head for the arena. From behind the Arena door they wait for their que to enter. They introduce the Five Champions Shift, Wanted, Abra, Mas De Uno and Third Degree. They get the Que to enter after he announces the two of them. Sean and Anastasia enters and the crowd goes wild. They reach the extended cage and walk in. The Announcer approaches them to let Sean introduce his team and hands him a spare microphone. He says, “Phoenix who are the other you will be fighting with tonight?” Sean takes the microphone and replies, “first, you all know I will be fighting with the lovely Anastasia Faye.” The crowd erupts with a manly chant. Anastasia winks and Sean continues to say, “my third is none other than the man himself, Lorenzo Stone.” He enters and the crowd is quiet at first but explodes into a rage as he makes his way down into the cage. Sean quiets the crowd. “The next two are new to the E.F.G. and I know you will enjoy what they have to offer. The first is Madeline Waters.” She enters and the crowd gives off a low applause. She enters the cage and Sean puts his arm around her. Abigale looks disappointed. Sean whispers to her, “They will roar

once they see what you can do.” Lorenzo grabs the Microphone and walks into the middle of the cage. He raises his hand and the crowd applauses him. He drops his hand and the crowd silences. He says, “I know you all are shocked. I know you all have been waiting. Now, I’m going to deliver. Sean, if you could do the honor.” Sean walks center cage and grabs the microphone. “Ladies and Gentlemen, I give you Hopps!” They wait a few seconds and no one enters the Arena. The crowd in silence looking at each other confused. Sean looks at Lorenzo embarrassed. Lorenzo points and Hopps appears right in front of Sean. Sean steps back and the crowd is shocked. They give off a standing ovation as Hopps bow to the audience. The announcer says, “we have our fighters and now here are the rules. The first fighter of the teams choosing will start the brawl. After five minutes, the next fighter of the teams choosing will enter the fight and so on. All powers are allowed and as usual no killing is allowed. The fight will end when one team has no more fighters. that can continue. Choose your first fighter and the fight will begin. Proceed as you may.” The announcer leaves the cage. They turn to each other to determine who should go first. Sean says, “I think Hopps should go first since he wants to be fashionably late.” Jason says, “My name is Jason Hopps nice to meet you” then he pops in front of Abigail holding her hand. He kisses it and says, “you can call me Jason.” Sean looks at Lorenzo annoyed saying, “get your boy Zo.” Lorenzo breaks it all up while laughing. He says, “Abigail, would you mind going first? No offense but I know what they are capable of. I don’t know what you can do but I have faith you will survive it.” A pissed look comes over her face and she replies, “I’ll gladly go first asshole.” She smiles and walks into the center. Anastasia laughs and says, “never piss off a woman. You should know that by now sweetie.” The champs see Abigail walk center cage and look at each other. Mas De Uno stands up. He says, “I’ll handle this one.” He walks center cage and meet with Abigail. He shakes her hand. Abigail goes into stance and Mas De Uno stands still. He does a motion with one hand and the ground next to him rise with a human like figure made of soil. It runs at Abigail and goes to strike with a punch. She ducks under the punch and trips it. It recovers and lunges at her again. She dodges it again and backs away. The crowd begins to boo her. Mas De Uno laughs and quiets the crowd. He motions with his other hand and another figure rises from the ground. Abigail begins to grow nervous as time runs down for the next opponent and team member to enter. Four minutes left she tries to run from both apparitions. After two minutes of dodging and running Mas De Uno grows annoyed. He motions again with both hands and two more figures grow from the ground. He points at Abigail and the four apparitions

corner her. The crowd begin to applaud Mas De Uno. She backs into the cage and grips it. He motions for them to attack and Abigail inhales with her eyes closed. Before they could move she screams and the apparitions are blown away. The crowd and Mas De Uno are shocked into silence. With one minute left Abigail gets angry and begins to charge at Mas De Uno. He starts to back away as he summons more apparitions. One tries to strike Abigail and she punches through it as she runs for Mas De Uno. He summons multiple apparitions. With thirty seconds left she stops. There are six apparitions surrounding her. She walks closer to Mas De Uno and the Apparitions follow her. As she gets to close he summons more. Ten are surrounding her now. Mas De Uno begins to cower. He raises his hand and Abigail smirks. The apparitions jump on her all at once. They begin to mold solid. Sean looks nervously at what is happening. Mas De Uno gets up and walk up to where she was and laughs. Right as he takes a step the apparitions explode with Abigail’s scream behind it and Mas De Uno is violently thrown into the cage on the opposite side. He slumps over is pain and disbelief. Everyone looking at Lorenzo he says, “What? You didn’t tell me anything.” Sean replies, “since when do we tell each other anything?” They look over and Wanted steps into the cage. He checks to see if Mas De Uno is still able to fight. He nods and approaches Abigail. The crowd is going insane. Abigail looks over and Anastasia enters the cage. Wanted stops and shakes his head. “Are we really going to do this?” Anastasia blows him a kiss. He smiles and shakes his head vigorously. Wanted yells, “It’s not going to work Ana.” She replies, “It’ll work enough to distract you.” He says, “I got something to distract you.” He points and Abigail punches Anastasia in the face knocking her into the cage. Lorenzo says, “you ok baby?” She shakes her head and says, “I’m sorry Sean but I’m going to have to knock out your little girlfriend.” Sean yells, “Why?” Anastasia recovers as Abigail is in fighting stance in front of her. Abigail says, “I’m sorry. I can’t control what I’m doing.” Anastasia replies, “he’s controlling you. He just can’t control your power luckily. But I’m sorry too.” Abigail says, “for what?” Just then Anastasia knocks Abigail out with a spin kick to the head. She gets up and brushes herself off. Wanted looks annoyed as Anastasia says, “I think you’re out of pawns. She points at him and motions her finger for him to come at her. He says, “I’m not coming anywhere near you.” She smiles and turns her head as she replies, “I wasn’t pointing to you.” Wanted looks behind him and Mas De Uno is standing with four Apparitions behind him. Wanted says, “You have to be kidding me dude.” Sean taps Lorenzo and says, “She didn’t say anything to him. How did she have him do that?” He replies, “She doesn’t have to speak. She taps

into your mind and speaks directly to your actions. She just likes doing the voice.” The rest of the time is used with Wanted fighting off the apparitions. Shift enters the cage and Morphs into Mas De Uno. Anastasia loses her focus trying to control them both. Sean enters the cage and the crowd Screams in excitement. He checks on Abigail and she comes conscious. He asks her, “Are you ok? She replies, “yeah but I think she went a little too hard with that kick.” He helps her up and they all face each other. Anastasia faces Sean and Abigail. She says, “My biggest problems are going to be you two. Hopefully Hopps won’t be a problem and hopefully I can distract Wanted enough. The best defense against his power is to think about what you feel the strongest about. The thing that nothing can take your mind away from. He may still have some control but it will drain him to keep control if you’re fighting it.” Abigail slaps Anastasia. She says, “sorry I think he’s controlling me again.” She looks over at Wanted. He shrugs his shoulders. She looks back at Abigail and she shrugs her shoulders. Anastasia replies, “I’ll let you get away with it this time.” We have 3 minutes until the next comes in. Let’s get to it. They approach each other as Mas De Uno summon more apparitions. Shift morphs into Wanted to confuse Anastasia. Sean grabs Abigail and shoots off in front of Mas De Uno. He punches him in the stomach and Abigail screams as Sean moves quickly throwing him and the apparitions into the cage. Sean stops in his steps holding his head as if he’s trying to fight off something. Anastasia notices it but Wanted and Shift are both motioning the same. Struggling to tempt them she begins to run at them. Abigail does the same. Time runs out as they almost reach them and they disappear. Abra walks up and Wanted and Shift reappear behind him. They check on Sean and he says, “it really hurts to fight him off.” Anastasia says, “I’m going to have to go head to head with him. I hope you all can take care of the rest since it looks like Mas De Uno is out. Out of nowhere Hopps appears with them. He asks, “you all ready to have some fun?” They all look at him irritated. Abigail sarcastically says, “It been a blast so far.” Anastasia tells them, “Don’t stand in one place longer than a few seconds. Abra can move you anywhere he wants if you do.” Hopps smiles as he says, “I never do.” He vanishes as he finishes speaking. Sean says, “let’s go.” He shoots off at Abra and kicks at him but he vanishes and appears behind Abigail. She is shocked and shrieks as he appears. The shriek gives off a low pulse and knocks him and Anastasia back some. Anastasia runs at Wanted. Just then, Hopps appears and knock Abra back with a punch to the face. Abra vanishes and Hopps follows

kicking him in the chest. Abra tries to trick Hopps by appearing behind Anastasia. Just as hopps is about to strike Anastasia Sean moves her out the way and Hopps connects with Abra knocking him unconscious. The crowd is in awe at the spectacle in front of them. Time runs down and Third degree enters. Third Degree walks in slowly as he looks around disappointed. Anastasia shakes her head and says, “shit, here we go.” Sean shoots at him and before he could attack Third Degree he pulses and Sean is thrown back. Anastasia says, “I still have to deal with Wanted. Hopps and Sean, you both are going to have to go at Third Degree. Maybe your speed can distract him. I’ll try to tempt Shift so Abigail can get close enough to hit him with her scream.” She looks back at Lorenzo and he is on the phone. Annoyed at the sight she screams, “ANY DAY WOULD BE NICE!” He sticks up his index finger without looking up and yells back, “GIVE ME ONE SECOND!” They follow Anastasia’s plan. She’s not able to tempt Shift because of the one on one with Wanted. Sean and Hopps struggle to get close enough to attack Third Degree. Outside of his aimed pulses his body constantly pulses on its own leaving no opening. Lorenzo finally gets off the phone a few minutes later and enters the cage. The crowd erupts with applause. He runs up to them and says, “I’m sorry guys. We have to hurry and finish this.” Sean replies, “Like we haven’t been trying to for the last 25 minutes.” Anastasia pops him on the forehead and asks, “what was so important?” Lorenzo replies, “I was told Chris wasn’t liking what he was watching and that he is on his way to enter the fight.” Sean shoots in his face. “You’re joking right? Please tell me that you’re joking.” Lorenzo snaps his neck and replies, “I wish I was joking.” Anastasia says, “Why is he able to make so many changes Lorenzo?” Abigail starts to cringe as she drops to her knees. Sean and Hopps both go for Wanted and they stop in their tracks fighting off Wanted’s power. Lorenzo looks at Anastasia and motions for her to take care of Wanted. “Don’t think you’re in the clear just yet.” Angrily she looks at Wanted. His lock is broken on Abigail, Sean and Hopps. She begins to seductively walk towards Wanted. He tries to look away but she begins to speak. In her Temptress tone she says, “let’s stop playing these games Wanted. I know you want me.” He struggles to shake it off but he can’t. “Don’t fight what you desire. If you want me then you will do what I say and go sit out the rest of the fight.” As she walks up to him he nods yes. She kisses him on the cheek and says, “Thank you baby.” She winks, he goes to sit down and she walks back toward Lorenzo saying, “now back to our conversation.”

Sean and Hopps look at each other, shrug their shoulders and vanishes toward Third Degree. Abigail runs at him as they try to attack him. Sean runs up to her and run by her side. Unexpectedly Sean punches Abigail in her stomach. She falls to the floor and he kicks her while she’s down. She rolls back from the blow. She looks up with pain and disbelief as tears roll off her face. She reaches for him as he walks up to her and Shift appears before her. He puts his hand over her mouth. He says, “Nice trick huh? It comes in handy sometimes.” Third Degree makes his way to the two of them. He says, “Yeah it does come in handy.” He hits Shift with a strong blow to the chest knocking him feet away. “Lorenzo resumes his form saying, “did you forget I’m a mimic?” He helps Abigail up, smiles and his skin turn to stone. He tells her, “I got this one. Go help Anastasia.” Shift gets up saying, “thanks for the Stone skin” as he takes Lorenzo’s stone form. “You ready to play Mr. Stone?” Lorenzo shrugs his shoulders. “It would be pointless. We’d just play tick for tack. The difference is… I can do more but I’d have to be quicker than you. Which is hard but it can be done.” Shift looks at him shrugging his shoulders. “Let’s see what happens.” Lorenzo replies, “I don’t think you understand. You can copy me but you can’t mimic everything. Lorenzo calls Sean. Sean stops in his steps. “You need something?” Lorenzo smiles and says, “thanks for the speed.” Shift looks from Sean to Lorenzo and as soon he looks back Lorenzo Hits Shift with a stone fist to the face knocking him away. A wind knocks him back towards Lorenzo and vines yank him down into the ground. Lorenzo walks up to him as he is unable to move. He says, “you must’ve forgot who I am.” He winks and walks off. Third Degree notices all his team are out. He backs towards his corner. The lights go out. Pitch black in the arena, the crowd begins to panic. Once the screams begin the lights come back on and Chris Lyons is standing in the cage. The crowd is amazed by what just happened. Chris walks up saying, “None of you will walk out alive. Just saying.” He winks and walks back to his corner. He slaps Wanted and It breaks him from Anastasia’s power. Now, It’s Sean, Abigail, Lorenzo, Anastasia and Jason against Chris Lyons, Wanted, Shift and Third Degree. Abra and Mas De Uno are out of the match. It’s five on four. Both teams regroup. Wanted walks up to them. “Thanks, but you didn’t have to hit me that hard.” Chris replies, “I didn’t hit you hard. Let’s focus on what you all should’ve had done from the beginning.” They all listen in. “Lorenzo is our focus. Keep your mind clear from thoughts. Anastasia will grab you if you don’t. Phoenix is quick and strong. So is Hopps, so keep an eye out. I’ll silence this bitch Madeline. Are

we clear?” They all nod and disperse. Chris stands alone as he rushes towards Lorenzo in his Ravager state. All of them prepare for him as wanted manipulates Sean and makes him strike all of them in an instance. Lorenzo in his stone form holds his ground focusing on Chris as he blocks a slash from him. Chris says while looking at his claws, “you’re not as dumb as I thought you were.” Lorenzo releases his stone form and becomes liquified. “Let’s see how much you like baths beast.” Chris cringes and leaps towards him slashing Lorenzo’s body. His body collapses but regenerates itself. Lorenzo says, “You’re starting to smell better already.” He smiles and rushes at Chris. Anastasia catches herself and calls Hopps. He appears catching Abigail and Sean s the party saying, “I’m sorry guys. It wasn’t me.” Anastasia says, “I thought I took care of Wanted but we need to handle him and Third Degree first. Abigale, I need you to counter his pulses with your screams. Sean an Hopps you both need to keep a focus and go at Wanted. I’ll wait for my opening with both and tempt them. Then we can do what we want with them. After that. Shift will be a breeze.” Hopps replies, “I love a woman who takes control.” Anastasia winks at him and he vanishes. Wanted and Third Degree stand together. Sean and Hopps both go at Wanted together. They drop trying to fight off Wanted’s power and Abigail screams. The blast from her scream knocks them defenseless. Hopps appears holding Wanted in a full nelson and Sean strikes him in the stomach knocking the wind out of him. Hopps then grabs Third Degree by the arm and Sean punches him towards Abigail. As Third Degree meets eyes with Abigail he smirks. She inhales deeply before he reaches her and she screams directly at him. He is thrown out of the cage and out of the match. Chris is fighting with Lorenzo and see that his numbers are dropping. He says, “do something.” Wanted’s eyes turn all white along with Shift. Shift takes the form of Wanted and they also move the same. Wanted says, “I didn’t want to do this. You forced my hand.” Hopps and Abigail drop to the floor in pain fighting Wanted’s power. Lorenzo, Anastasia and Sean back away. Hopps and Abigail stand up simultaneously looking at each other. They nod and Hopps disappears. He appears grabbing Anastasia and vanishes. He places her in front of Abigail as she screams and throws her into cage behind them. Sean says, “Your mimicking me?” Lorenzo Nods and they shoot off.” Hopps appears by them both striking as they block his blows and dodge Abigale’s screams trying to reach Wanted and Shift. Sean Almost reaches Wanted when Chris knocks him back. Sean catches himself and Chris walks by him. He says, “this reminds me of when your father took his last breath.” Abigail screams, “Sean, don’t listen to him.” Chris laughs. “He tried to protect your mother and he took his last breath doing so. You should

be proud of your father.” Sean grits his teeth in anger balling up his fist.” I didn’t get to see Abigail’s parents die. I only saw the explosion from a distance.” He chuckles. They all scream, “SEAN!” It’s too late. Sean jets at Chris. He tries to kick but Chris grabs his leg and throws him into the ground. Chris attacks with a downwards slash but Sean dodges and counters with a punch to the face. Chris wipes him mouth and see’s blood in his fur. The crowd is silenced and the rest of the fight stops. Chris says, “you mother and father almost killed me. Almost. You won’t be any different. You and her, will die here tonight. You were both wanted before you ed the E.F.G. It can’t save you. Time for me to finish what I started.” He gives off a menacing growl. Sean stands alone angrily. Everyone else backs off including Wanted and Shift. Abigail meets up with Sean. Chris says, “Isn’t this sweet. Two on one. It almost seems unfair on my end.” Chris leaps at them. Sean grabs Abigail and places her behind him as she screams and knocks him into the air as Sean shoots in front of him with a flying kick to the face knocking him down into the ground. The dust settles and Chris is standing laughing. He says, “ok, my turn. He fake leaps at Sean and when Sean vanishes he jumps back and backhands Abigail’s into the cage. He grabs her by the neck and slams her into the ground. Placing his massive foot on her chest he says, “you ready for another loved one to die? I won’t give her a chance to breathe.” He looks at Sean as he laughs. Abigail in tears begins to grow angry as he slowly but strongly pushes his foot into her chest. Sean notices her eyes grow red. He says, “you’re going to pay for what you did.” Chris looks at Sean confused. “what are you going to do about it?” Sean chuckles saying, “not me.” He points down at Abigail. Chris looks down and Abigale’s eyes are blazing with fire. Her body burst into flames and he moves his foot as his beastly fur catches flame. Chris scowls, “WHAT IS THIS?” Sean replies, “Something you have never seen before.” Sparks begin to come from Sean’s hands and eyes. Chris takes a step back and grit his teeth. “you will not leave here alive.” A flash of light blind the arena for a few seconds. Chris has a flash back. “Walk into the light Captain Lyons” says Cecelia. Chris shakes his head vigorously. “NO! This will not happen again.” Abigale runs at him and screams. He dodges and Sean strike him with a punch to the gut. He is stunned as sparks cover his body. He roars and lunges at Sean. Sean jets off and grabs Abigail. Chris grabs Sean’s throat and Sean release Abigail. Chris smiles. “This will end now.” Lorenzo and Anastasia look on ready to act. Sean places both feet against Chris’ chest and pushes away breaking from Chris’ grip. Abigail begins to cry.

Chris looks at her sarcastically saying, “This takes me back.” She takes in a deep breath and Chris puts his foot into her neck. She gasps for air and Sean strikes him in the face leaving sparks everywhere. Abigail rolls away from him breathing deeply. Chris shakes it off and Sean is still standing in the same exact place. He looks at Sean in disbelief. “I didn’t sense you when you moved.” Sean’s body begins to light up with sparks. Chris’ eyes widen as he re Cecelia doing the same thing. He roars in anger and motions to leap towards Sean and is stuck in the face again. He looks up and Sean is still in the same place. “How are you doing that?” He asks. Sean replies, “Say grace in your resting place. You will die where you stand.” Chris flexes every part of himself mustering up his energy and crouches down to leap. He drops to one knee as he is hit in the gut with a blow. He looks up at Sean. “I should’ve found you and killed you when I had the chance.” Sean smirks sadistically saying, “too late now.” Chris roars again and is struck in the face. Sean says, “look at me. I’m going to let you see me kill you. If you can.” Sean uses linkage. With his speed and sparking he throws a light image of his body attacking Chris and it hits him with a drop kick to the face. Chris’ head is knocked back but he recovers quickly and angrily. Sean motions his attacks but he doesn’t leave his place. The light moves to strike Chris. Chris can only block so many as Sean attacks with a barrage of lightning. There is so much light when eventually Chris gives off a loud deafening roar. Everyone is covering their eyes for a few seconds and when they can see again Abigail is standing in front of Chris. Chris is Standing stiff in shock as Abigail is surrounded with flames. She looks at him and her eyes flickers. She breathes in and all the fire surrounding her follows. She screams as loud as she can and Chris tries to withstand the attack as his body burns into ashes. The crowd is silenced for a few second as everything settles in. They explode with applause and both Sean and Abigail calm from their state. They begin to walk towards Lorenzo, Anastasia and Hopps when The Unit burst through the doors. Lorenzo says, “what is the meaning of this?” The officer says, “No killing is allowed in the E.F.G. They are under arrest.” Anastasia cuts in, “He tried to kill them. It was in self-defense.” The officer replies, “It doesn’t matter. They were wanted before this occurred.” Lorenzo says, “I have clearance for exceptions. They are under my protection.” The officer laughs. He points at Lorenzo and of The Unit grab Lorenzo. “If they are under your protection then you are harboring wanted fugitives.” Lorenzo looks at Anastasia and she approaches the officer. Before she says anything multiple of The Unit grab Anastasia. He says, “don’t even try it. We were prepared for you.”

A person in a hooded robe walks towards the altercation. The officer scowls, “DO NOT COME ANY CLOSER!” The person continues to get closer. He repeats, “LAST CHANCE! STOP WHERE YOU ARE!” The officer motions his head towards another officer and he goes to subdue the person. The officer drops once he touches the hooded person. The officer motions again and three more officers cautiously approach the hooded person. The officer says, “do you know what you just did? You just sentenced yourself to death killing a Unit officer. Arrest him.” They go to arrest him and a blinding flash overcomes the arena and everyone covers their eyes. The cameras can’t even see what’s happening. Sean, Abigail, Lorenzo, Anastasia and Hopps all feel someone pull them. They run for a while blinded not knowing where they are going. Once they are finally able to see again they brace themselves ready to fight. They look around. They are cornered in a dark place. One way in and one way out with multiple people blocking the way. The hooded person appears from the group in front of them. Sean asks, “Why did you bring us here? Who are you?” The person replies, “I was so glad to see you on T.V. I followed you everywhere.” Anastasia says, “oh my god. A stalker.” The person laughs and says, “I’ll be right back.” They talk amongst themselves. Hopps says, “I knew I shouldn’t have accepted your offer.” Lorenzo points at himself saying, “YOU?! I shouldn’t have accepted this shit.” Abigale cuts in, “we need to figure out what going on and why they brought us here.” Anastasia agrees. “We need to come up with a plan in case something happens.” Sean says, “We are all strong. We can just fight our way out.” Lorenzo replies, “yeah, easy for you to say. You and Hopps can be gone in an instance.” Sean says, “So can you.” Abigale and Anastasia stand with their arms crossed annoyed. They notice and they all apologize. The hooded person returns. They become on guard to fight. The hooded person says, “we saved you. You should be happy not scared.” “Why did you save us?” Anastasia asks The hooded person replies, “we were saving Sean and Abigale. You three were their allies. Figured you’d be of some worth.” Abigale asks, “why would you want to save us?” The hooded person replies, “I tried to save you before and I’ll risk my life to save you anytime I can.” In a confused tone Sean asks, “who are you?” The hooded person walks up to Sean, touches his face and with the other hand takes off her hood. Abigale looks at her in shock. Sean’s eyes widen as tears pour down his face. He says, “mom?” He faints, Abigale catches him, and the others come to his aid.