Revelation (M/F) (F/M) - A sequel to Devastation

[GreyLord]

Indeed, magnificent! This was wonderful.

[wolfman]

@Bandit666 @Caesar73 @GreyLord @slackywacky

Nikita feels her pulse rise slightly and feels her nerves tingle and knows Halpron is feeling the same way, when the lights go down and a spotlight turns to one man.

Steve exhales slowly and visibly relaxes despite the huge number of eyes on him. “Honoured guests, it is not my place to welcome you, however, I thank you for joining me, in celebrating the union of my daughter, Nikita, with King Halpron. I could speak for hours about them and their love, but tonight, I will keep it brief.”

He pauses for a beat, taking a sip from his glass, before continuing, “When I first met the King, Nikita was spirited away to the kitchen after being away for a while and he was in a bit of an awkward situation.” He smiles, “To his credit, he joined our family and introduced himself. Well kind of.”

Steve takes another sip and continues, “He said that he was in property management. Which struck me as a bit vague and I could just tell there was something about him and the King’s earnest nature, shone through.” He pauses for effect and smiles to himself, “Then Nikita walked back into the room and I could palpably see the love between them. Even then, I knew that it didn’t matter what he did for a living. Any man who could put that much love into my daughters heart, deserved a chance. I am not ashamed to say that when the truth was revealed about His Majesty being the King of Atlantis, I did say to myself, “Well just because he is a King, doesn’t mean he is good enough for Nikita.” He pauses, to appreciate the chuckles from the audience.

“That said, in the time since that moment, King Halpron, has shown in numerous ways, that he is not only a great King, but more than that, he is a good man.” He picks up his glass and takes a sip, before raising it in a toast, “To my wonderful daughter Nikita and the man who has earned my eternal respect, King Halpron. May the best of your past be the worst of your future.”



Halpron takes to his feet with a sense of relief and the lights turn on him, “Can we please have a round of applause for the Father of the Bride?”

When the enthusiastic clapping dies down, he speaks again, “Honoured guests and those unable to join us today, thank you for being part of this day.”

He reaches down and takes Nikita’s hand and smiles down at her, “From the moment you and I met, you showed me the world anew and made me see myself as the man I could be, without fear or doubt. By your side, you helped me to be the man I wanted to be and the King that the nation deserves. I will spend the rest of my life showing you what I see and how I feel when I look at you.”

He pauses composing himself, looking into her eyes, “You have lit a fire in me. I will love you for the rest of my life and will always strive to be the man you deserve.”



Nikita stands, as Halpron sits, feeling the weight of everyone’s eyes upon her. She swallows her fear and feels the love in her heart and right then nothing else matters, “I was born to humble origins and had a simple life with some adversity. Some would say that I achieved great things, however, nothing matches the moment that King Halpron and I opened our hearts to each other.”

She grips his hands and continues, “Some measure greatness by action and deed. I have found greatness in love itself. Both the love I feel in my heart and the love I am shown by my King. With each moment we share, my heart and its capacity for love grows in every way. In experiencing this love, I find the strength to stand side by side with King Halpron and be the Queen both he and the nation of Atlantis deserves.”

She looks lovingly at her husband, “You are my world and everything in it, that brings me joy. I will spend every day of my life repaying the love you show me. I have no idea how to be a Queen worthy of you, let alone Atlantis, however, with our love to guide me, I know I will find a way.”



The end of the speeches, heralds the beginning of the wedding breakfast. A multi-course meal, served both here and in eateries across the realm so the people could share in the feast.

Griddled haddock salad with a quails egg to start, souvlaki, gyros, Peking duck, grilled and roasted meats, a traditional British Sunday roast of beef, pork and lamb with all the trimmings, crepes, tiramisu and poached pears with a yuzu dressing and whipped cream for dessert.

Each dish of the spread, handpicked by the bride and groom to reflect the cultural fusion of their relationship. Each dish sampled, here and across the realms is celebrated in this feast.



The setting of the sun, heralds the beginning of the tale of King Halpron and Nikita, courtesy of the Glamour Ministry.

Everyone sees the scene before them split in two, in anime style.

On one side, Halpron stands tall and strong covered in grime and gore, leading the charge against the Annunakin. Massive muscles and a powerful body, wear traditional armour and massive hands heft the gladius and shield with deft grace, carving a swathe through the Annunakin.

On the other side, Nikita stands strong. Slim figure, big blue eyes and long dark hair moving in slow motion. She dives through smoke and fire and plunges fearlessly from a helicopter, through the flames, into the sea at the foot of an oil rig.

Annunakin leap at Halpron from all directions, only to be cut down by his mighty blade, as he leads a charge.

Nikita charges through the oil rig, ignoring the flames and heat all around her to load crewmen onto a life boat.

Halpron plants his foot on the neck of an Annunakin and thrusts his blade into its head, before calling in a danger close air strike.

Nikita finishes her sweep and runs through the rig evading explosions and burning oil on her way clear.



The scene shifts, with Nikita and the King watching a news feed of Annunakin running rampant, before the Atlantean military cut them down from the air.

Halpron looks gravely at the screen and Nikita nods.



An explosion rocks the crowd, as the shuttles engines fail and it drops from the sky onto the plain of Daemos. Halpron leaps from the aircraft and takes up arms ready to face the horde, as Nikita charges towards the creatures.

Halpron shouts “Cover her.”, then he, his sister and the four men with them, open fire on the horde. Nikita splits in four and lays down a withering stream of fire with the weapons of Earth, unbowed in the face of the enemy, drawing gasps from those who watch.

Monsters fall by the score. Nikita fights on until her weapons run dry and she goes in close, with Halpron covering her, as she carves a swathe through the enemy, with tentacles for arms.



“The battle is over, but the war is not yet won.” Phobos ominously says, in full robes, his eyes sparkle with Intelligence and wisdom, as magical power crackles around him, making the room shrink around him.

An idealised version of Cassius, standing almost seven feet tall, chisel jawed and steely eyed, hand on sword, “They are coming back, in greater numbers than ever before.”

“I have a plan.” Nikita says, determined as Halpron looks upon her with admiration.



The scene splits in two once more, Nikita soaring above the horde and on the other side of the Daemos portal, Halpron leads his team to the portal protecting Phobos, keeping the way home open.

The realm gasps as Nikita approaches the giant creature that’s radiating evil. Halpron and Nikita’s heralds draw swords and slaughter the Mother’s brood defending the portal.

Like an engine of destruction Nikita sweeps the back of the Mother, taking on all comers, before plunging her tentacle into its skull. Whilst back at the portal Halpron’s sword swings true every single time finding the neck of a monster, leaving countless dead in his wake.

The mother bellows and collapses dead. Nikita rises from the body on wings of black and with a sparkle in her eyes turns for home, with the only word that matters on her lips, “King Halpron.”

Halpron sheaths his sword as the last Annunakin falls. He stares at the portal, “Nikita, come back to me.” He whispers, as Phobos floats in mid air, with electricity crackling around him, chanting in the ancient tongue to raise a portal.



The King rises from his armchair, like a sculpture of an Adonis made flesh, to answer the door, Nikita stands nervously in waiting, entering when invited.

“Your Majesty, we won the day.” Nikita says, breathlessly.

“We did indeed, however, I stand before you tonight, not as your King, but as a man. With all the faults of a man and the passion of a man.” King Halpron says, earnestly.

“In thought and deed, you have shown me how you are a noble and good man. Time and again, you inspire me and light a fire in me, that the stars in the heaven’s could never match.” Nikita says, her breathing slow.

“Your deeds are great and the tales of your exploits are legend, however the love I feel for you is real.” King Halpron says, stepping forward and taking Nikita into his arms.

“I love you too.” Nikita says, her voice filled with joy.

Time stands still and they slowly draw closer. Their lips meet softly and the crowds cheers.

The scene fades to black, as they melt into each other arms.

The scene shifts quickly, from the assistance she gave to Galton, to the defence of Avalon, to discussions about tactics and the creation of the Saviours Guards, to the aid effort in Haven.

In each scene they are side by side and hand in hand, until the show closes with a crescendo of images from their relationship and shared adventures.

Thunderous applause rings out across the realm in an outpouring of joy.

Unseen by all, Ali slumps in her seat, exhausted, but exhilarated, having performed the show of a lifetime.

[Caesar73]

Simply wonderful @wolfman - there is no other Word for it. The Composition of this Chapter is flawless. The Speeches are brief, but nothing else a testimony that it does not need many Words to say something meaningful. Steve did. Halpron did. Each according to their Personality.

Loved the Menu I must say Good Choice!

And then the ultimate Highlight, a Song of Ice and Fire so to speak: A magnificent Show. So powerful it was easy to imagine the Pictures while reading.

[GreyLord]

Happy to see the site back up and happy to read your latest, great installment. This begs to be made into a movie.

[wolfman]

Thank you @Caesar73 and @GreyLord it is good to be back.

I wanted a balance of small and grand and i am happy with the result. Next chapter will be up soon

[wolfman]

@Bandit666 @Caesar73 @GreyLord @slackywacky

Wine and conversation flow freely. The air is filled with the burble of laughter and chatter, from four special sisters.

Liberator Chief Kim Smith reclines on her chair, puffing her cheeks out, “I have eaten my body weight in baklava. I will be buzzing for hours.”

“Don’t sweat it. We have a well stocked bar and an all night dance floor to burn it off.” Ali says, knocking back the dregs of her wine.

“I may need you to run interference. There is a stack of kebabs over there looking at me funny and I feel the need to deal with them.” Inceptor Tara, creator of the art of Biokinetics, says, cracking her neck.

Kim holds up two fingers like a pistol and nods, “When you are ready. I’ll cover you.”

“You take the stack on the right and leave the stack on the left to me.” Priestess Arcana of the Phlogiston order Anya giggles.

“Give the word and I’ll raid the bar as a distraction.” Ali says, with conviction.

Sasha the adoptive mother of Kim and Tara approaches from behind them, placing a hand on Kim and Tara’s shoulders, then leaning in, “Cancel that girls, Niki wants to show Atlantis how we party on Earth and she needs back up.”

“Our Queen calls and we answer.” Kim says running her fingers through her hair and adjusting her eye patch.

“To the Dancefloor.” Anya gives her battle cry.

Tara knocks back a tequila, “Ahhhhh, let’s show these Don’s how we do things on earth.”

Ali clenches her fists and throws back her head, bellowing , “Heyyy Macarena.”

A chaotic scramble ensues, dragging in Dani and Fey. Nikita waves from the dance floor with Kate, Louise and Angela and a gathering of Priestesses and social media icons from the realms.



Nikita’s brothers, Carl and Jim prop up one of the events many bars, with a Guinness each. Jim takes a swig and raises his glass to the dance floor. “Hell of a night.” He exclaims inna deep Kenyan accent.

“I gotta say, Atlantis knows how to party.” Carl says, in a cockney accent, winking at a blonde who meets his gaze.

“Back in Cambodia, in the early days, did you ever think we would end up here?” Jim asks, with a big grin.

Carl nods sagely, “Yeah. The signs were there.”

Jim looks at his sharply with a raised eyebrow, “Really?”

“Don’t be daft silly bollocks, there was no way I saw this coming.” Carl drains his pint, “Another?”

Jim drains his glass and nods, “Rude not too.”

Perseus, Biokinetic and champion of Shockwave, slaps his hand down on the bar next to Jim and signals the bar tender, “Can I get an Avalon Stout and the same for these guys?”

“Hey man. How is your night?” Carl says, raising his voice slightly above the crowd.

“Savage. If Anya hadn’t made me nigh indestructible clothes, I would have had them ripped off of me by now.” Perseus says, with a laugh.

“Well maybe next time you’ll have the good sense to wear something easier for them to remove.” Carl says with a grin.

Perseus thinks about it and roars with laughter, “Yes indeed.”

“This is good stuff.” Jim says after taking a sip of the Ale.

“Its the only thing in Avalon, that is stronger than a Knights sense of duty. Goes well with steak too.” Perseus muses, “Also you can drink enough to sink a battle ship and feel on top of the world the next morning, due to the minerals in it.”

“That sounds good to me. Tonight we are getting leathered.” Carl says, taking a swig. Seeing Perseus’ confusion, he elaborates. “Hammered? Sloshed? Wankered? Langered? Plastered?”

To looks of added confused from Perseus, Jim chips in, “Drunk.”

“Haha. Leathered! I like it!” Perseus proclaims nodding to senior Liberators, Arvin and Oscar.

Arvin orders an Avalon Ale and a shot of Olympian brandy, indicating one for every one. “To the King and Queen.” He bellows.

“To the King and Queen.” The brothers, Perseus and the nearby Custodians echo, slamming back shots.

Carl slams his glass down, thinking, “This is shaping up to be a rager.”



Steve sits back in his chair, watching the dance floor as his sister, wife, daughters and grand daughters strut their stuff. He picks up Liam and Tommy so they can watch too. “That is our family in all its glory boys.”

He looks down with pride at his son and grandson, “This is your welcome into a world, more strange and fantastical than I could have ever imagined.”

He beams with pride and is thankful of the sound dampening which prevents the music and sound of revellers, rising above a distant burble. “Glad it is quiet enough for you to see this.”

He nods and smiles seeing Moses pick his way through the crowd with a couple of pints.

Steve sets the boys down in their padded chairs and leans back in his seat, thumping the seat next to him with his fist, “Good man.”

Moses plants a frosted glass of lager down in front of Steve and takes the seat indicated. “Thought you would appreciate a little lubrication.”

Steve picks up the glass and runs it across his forehead, “You really are a good man, Moses. Thank you.”

“No problem, Steve. Can I talk to you?” Moses asks, nervously.

Steve takes a deep draught and pats the other man’s shoulder, “Go for it.”

Moses Black, former DEA agent and Green Beret, hesitates before he speaks, “Well, er, I have, I mean we have.”

Steve puts a hand on the other man’s arm, “Easy now big fella. Let me take the pain out of your misery. During the recovery from the loss of your leg and the physio you needed, you found yourself drawn closer to Sasha and the feeling was mutual. You have been dating on the down low, however you want to bring things into the open. How am I doing?”

Moses feels himself both relax and tense up, “Pretty much spot on.” He slugs back a draught of lager, before confessing “It started with her helping me to walk again. Then we talked about our experiences. Me with Anya and her with Kim and Tara and our worries about them. Before long we realised that we clicked and had a lot in common.”

“I had a feeling.” Steve nods, “To be fair, I have seen the dark clouds behind her eyes, part a little more and seen something of the old Sasha shine through of late.”

“So, we are cool.” Moses asks, tentatively.

“Yeah, of course were good. The real challenge will be when you speak to Kim, Tara and Anya about it.” Steve says with a shrug.

“Don’t I know it.” Moses exclaims, taking a big draught from his glass.



Dean Mitchum sits alone at the table watching his sisters and the other women of the family, in a dance off with the ladies of the Order and Realms socials. “I think we won the Macarena, but the Cha Cha Slide is too close to call.”

He takes a sip of ice cold sparkling water and sighs. At the ripe old age of twenty three, plus some time dilation, he could drink, but he prefers the clarity of sobriety on a night like this.

“This is a night of wonders and I don’t want to miss a thing.” He thinks, flicking his gaze across to the other dance floor, playing slow jams, “Mum and Dad, twenty five years married and still loved up.” He smiles warmly, “I want that one day.”

He feels the pull of tiredness at his temples and checks the time, “Just after midnight.” He sighs, “The night is still young.”

With the type of luck that usually evades him, he catches the eye of a passing waitress and orders a triple espresso.

The waitress leaves it with a smile that melts Dean a little inside. He savours the hot bitter liquid, with a hint of chocolate, wondering what might have been.

He is pulled from his day dreaming by bellows from Jim, Carl, Perseus and the Liberators, as they gather by one of the many bars and begin singing eighties rock songs at the top of their lungs, somehow always starting and finishing with Bon Jovi.

“Looks like an awesome crowd, but I am no where near bad ass enough to drink with those guys.” Dean thinks, with a chuckle, draining his cup and taking a swig of water to swill the taste of the espresso from his mouth.

A girl at the bar catches his eye, red hair, worn up, exposing the milky white skin of her slender neck and shoulders. The dress, hugs her like a second skin, the purple silk shimmering like the night.

Feeling emboldened he runs his fingers through his slicked back, undercut hair and straightens his tie, adjusting the jacket of his tuxedo, “Now or never, Deano. She is sublime and you got to take the chance.”

Painfully, he edges through the crowd that seem intent to move into his path. Agonising minutes pass, while he makes his way from the safety of the table to the deadly depths of her eyes.

Suddenly, he is almost close enough to touch her. In that moment, she turns excitedly to the man next to her, a soldier in the Atlantean military from his uniform and embraces him before sharing a kiss.

Dean feels his heart sink a little, “Everyone loves a man in uniform.” He thinks wistfully. “Maybe I should have enlisted instead of signing on with the guilds.”

Picking his way through the crowd he makes his way towards the balcony for some air. He catches Corven’s eye and they exchange a nod, as he crosses the threshold.

He looks back into the ballroom, seeing his sisters and the women of the family dancing and the men laughing and singing and shrugs to himself, “Everyone is well away. This is a night for the larger than life, I am just an earthborn guy without any special powers. I think it is time to call it a night.”



Dean picks his way through the crowd, managing to avoid several champagne showers, before feeling a tap on his shoulder.

Turning, he is surprised to see Corven standing before him. The Guild master, indicated a quiet corner of the balcony and mouths, “Need a word.”

Dean nods and heads to bench a little away from everyone and waits for Corven to sit, before he himself sits down.

Corven pulls out a hip flask and takes a pull before offering it to Dean. The younger man declines and looks at his boss expectantly.

Corven shakes his head subtly and looks into the distance, “First off, sorry to have to do this now. I have been wanting to have a talk with you for a little while, however, events have stymied me at all turns.” He takes another pull and turns to Dean, speaking gravely, “I know.”

Dean feels his blood turn to ice, “I don’t know what you mean.”

“You have been on the job for six months, working most evenings and weekends.” The older man sighs, “I know about the time dilation ward on your lab and by my reckoning you have been working pretty solidly for the equivalent of about three years.”

Dean cannot speak and simply nods, fearing what comes next.

“I know. I have been there too. An idea that won’t let go, consuming every waking thought, like a splinter in your mind.” Corven confesses, “I also know that whatever you have been working on is going to be quite something, looking at the resources that you pulled, in the early days.”

Dean nods slowly, unable to make eye contact, “There are a few things I have been working on, however despite all I have tried, nothing feels good enough to present for approval.”

Corven nods sagely, “I understand. This is what I was worried about. You are brilliant, but a perfectionist. Nothing will ever be good enough for you, because in your eyes no matter how good it is, it will be flawed.” He takes another pull from the flask, “Take two weeks off. Then you will present everything you have been working on for peer review.”

Dean looks at him, wide eyed, “Nothing is ready.” He protests, thinking of the work he has done.

Corven takes a slow deep breath, “I suspect that is not true, but your own doubts are shooting you down at every turn.” He says with a wink, “I would pull you in for a review tomorrow, however, my gut feeling is that, if I do, you will not be able to take a break for a while after. So, you have two weeks leave.” He takes a pulls from his flask, “Have fun. Do something wild. Anything but work. Have fun. Meet a girl. Do anything but work. That is an order.”

Dean stumbles away from the venue in a daze, he braces himself against a wall and looks up at the stars, “Maybe he is right. Maybe I am too much of a perfectionist.” He checks his watch, “Just after one. I could nip to the lab and get everything I have been working on and use the next two weeks to polish my presentation.”

Suddenly feeling the weight of the night and the long hours he has been working, he turns his back to the party and steps into the night.



Corven shakes his head and returns to the bar area, ordering an Olympian brandy and knocking it back. He sets the glass down, feeling a hand on his shoulder.

Turning to face the hands owner, he nods, “It’s done. Now are you going to tell me why.”

Carl smiles feeling the lines of fate coalesce, “Because sometimes destiny needs a little nudge.”

[GreyLord]

WOW, just WOW. This story flows in so many directions. As always, it is superb and fascinating.

[wolfman]

WOW, just WOW. This story flows in so many directions. As always, it is superb and fascinating.

There are so many threads yet to be explored within yhis universe and i hope to get to each of them in time.

Thank you for your kind words

[slackywacky]

There are so many threads yet to be explored within this universe and i hope to get to each of them in time.

I think it was interesting to see that starting over with this story (on DA when Tugstories was down) was hard, because of the history. You really should start from scratch on DA to get the whole picture. So, glad Tugstories is back

[wolfman]

There are so many threads yet to be explored within this universe and i hope to get to each of them in time.

I think it was interesting to see that starting over with this story (on DA when Tugstories was down) was hard, because of the history. You really should start from scratch on DA to get the whole picture. So, glad Tugstories is back

I know what you mwan, very please Tugstories is back.

To start fron scratch on DA would yake a very long time. I have started a new story over there, which might come here at some point

[wolfman]

@Bandit666 @Caesar73 @GreyLord @slackywacky

Picking his way through the crowds one the night of the realms biggest party for over a generation, is a challenge, to say the least.

Dean courageously managed to evade the various street stalls with delicious smelling and looking food and the various offers of questionable pleasures by both women and men, to reach the door of his lab.

He slips into the foyer of the lab, unnoticed by revellers and breathes a sigh of relief. He loosens his tie and cracks his neck, walking through the sterile building to get to his lab.

For the second time this evening, his blood turns to ice, seeing the inner door has been forced and is slightly ajar. “That’s a steel security door with interlocking deadbolts. You would need massive strength for force it. Even Nikita would struggle with that.”

Before navigating past the wrecked door and stepping inside, he draws an Incapacitator and sets it to paralyse. The door opens with a creak, revealing a figure trapped like a fly in amber, facing away from him, by the labs Arrester Stasis Trap. The figure wears baggy jeans and t-shirt, with a leather jacket and heavy boots. “Slim build on this guy, but that doesn’t mean much. Especially after the state of the door.”

The technology behind the Arrester was once used to slow the descent of soldiers from aircraft. However, now it is used for so much more, from slowing the force of incoming projectiles and attacks to absorbing sound. With each use expelling the absorbed force harmlessly. In this instance however, it robs the target of all kinetic force, pinning them in place.

Staying behind the intruder, Dean shoots them in the back, three times thinking, “That should keep them compliant for about half an hour.” He steps behind them and pulls a thick canvas bag over their head, breathing a sigh of relief.

Using his Direct Neural Interface, he issues a command and a concealed door, slides silently open. Three faceless Tech Support units, over six feet tall step through and silently await command, every synthetic sinew of their bodies, coiled and ready.

“Strip search and heavily restrain the intruder, if they try to escape, shoot to kill.” He instructs two of the units, whilst telling the other, “Repair the door, please.”

Two of the Techs, approach the Intruder from behind. One removing the bag and the other fitting a hood and securing it tightly, before they each take an unresisting arm and carry their prisoner inside.

The other unit, approaches the door and opens its hand and then close it around an arc welding torch. It quickly cuts away damaged sections of the door and resets the deadbolts before welding plates back into place.

Dean nods to himself, walking into the lab itself and confirming that the prisoner, did not enter, before opening another concealed door to access his vault. “Might as well get the stuff I came for before I speak to our guest.” He thinks, deciding not to bother anyone yet.




The door to the lab opens silently allowing Dean to enter. He hears the violent grunts and cries of a struggle and takes a deep breath, “Here goes.”

His eyes take in every inch of the slender but powerfully built woman, bound on the floor before him.

The tight hood covers her whole head apart from two small holes for her to breathe.

Her arms are folded across her back with each elbow, resting atop the opposite arms wrist, with a wide strap pinning her forearms together, despite the rippling of her sculpted arms. For good measure additional straps pin her upper arms to her sides above and below her breasts.

She sits with her legs crossed in the lotus position, her ankles strapped together and locked to a belt around her waist. She fights like a wild cat trying to get free, without success.

Dean coughs gently and when she stops struggling for a moment, trying to work out if she heard something, he speaks, as calmly as he can manage, “That straps are made from a reinforced version of the material used in Sheath construction. I imagine from the state of the security door, that you are very strong, however you will not be able to break out of them.”

When she remains calm, he approaches and puts a lab coat, around her shoulders and buttoning it, to give her a little dignity back, “If you are willing to talk, I will remove the hood and you can tell me who you are and what you are doing here.”

When she nods, he reaches down, softly saying, “Hold still please.” He unseals the hood and slowly peels it off of her face first before removing it completely.

Dean gasps looking at the face of the Intruder. On one hand, from the intense beauty of the woman’s big blue eyes, full lips, shoulder length black hair and high cheekbones. On the other hand it is because of who she is.

“Oh fuck.” Dean says, feeling nervous, “Mia?”



Mia looks up at him thinking, “So you are Dean. Taller than I expected. Every nerve in your body is telling you to run, even though you somehow got me, wrapped like a fetish fans wet dream.”

She parts her lips slightly and licks them, “Please may I have some water?” she asks gently, trying not to set him on edge. “Clock is ticking and the only way out of this is with his help.”

“Ah sure.” Dean says, going to the labs mini fridge and pulling it an unmarked bottle. He flips the sports cap and holds it to her lips, unable to look away as she looks up with her big blue eyes and sucks hard on the bottle. Hating himself, he thinks, “I have to admit that seeing her in person, she is nothing like her photo. She is stunning.”

Mia pulls back and takes a deep breath, “Thanks. What is that?”

Checking the bottle, Dean apologises, “Oh sorry, meant to give you a plain one. It is my home brew. Electrolytes, vitamins, minerals and various sugars and other nutrients. I use it as a pick me up.” Dean says sheepishly, before offering the bottle again.

Mia guzzles down the rest of the bottle and sighs, “I needed that. Would love the recipe.”

Dean refocuses and claims another bottle from the fridge for himself, taking a sip, then takes a minute to think before saying, “What am I doing? I should just call this in.”

“Wait please.” Mia says, fearfully, “Let me go. I have something I need to do. Then I will come back and turn myself in.”

He sighs, sadly, “I wish I could believe you. The last time you used a national event to cover your actions, it resulted in the downfall of a nation and the faking of your own death. Now on the night of the largest event in the realms, you are here.” Dean says, trying to hide his nerves, “What’s the plan? Downfall of Atlantis? Starting a war. Massacre of thousands?”

Mia tries to compose herself as he speaks, shaking her head, “No. Nothing like that. My plan was to get a few things here and quickly move on. I erm, misjudged the security here.”

“Let me guess. You thought my lab would be a softer touch than the other members of the family, or official armouries.” Dean says sighing.

“I must admit I did.” Mia confesses, awkwardly, “I have to ask, how did I get taken down?”

Dean thinks for a moment and decides there is nothing to lose by telling her, “There is a bank of Arresters set up, with absolute motion drain. As soon as you walked between them, you were robbed of all movement.” He explains, “When I arrived, you were stuck and I paralysed you with an Incapacitator, so my assistants could restrain you.”

Mia nods thoughtfully, “Damn. I really underestimated you didn’t I?”

Dean slumps his shoulders and hangs his head, “Don’t feel bad. In a place with so many soldiers, mages and the gifted, I am just a guy.”

Mia sees him crumble a little inside and finds herself feeling for him, “I’m sure that is not the case.” She says trying to assuage his feelings

Dean snorts a chuckle, “I don’t have the magical aptitude of my sisters, or the powers of the Marks family. I am just an earthborn human in Atlantis. Nothing special. I am basically wall paper in Atlantis.”

“For what it’s worth, you took me down. My mother, Sasha and Kim failed to do that.” Mia says, subtly pulling against the restraints without success, thinking, “I haven’t got time for this.”

“No one cares. I once had a chance to step up to protect my sister and I let her down.” He says before speaking with a little bitterness, “And ever since then it has crippled me. Condemning me to work quietly in the background, too afraid of failure and ridicule to step out from behind my own shadow, or show even the most basic of my gear for fear of ridicule.”

For a moment, Mia sees a look of pain in his eyes, before he composes himself. “Nothing I have read, gives a hint to this side of him. Everything points to him being happy go lucky and chilled. If I haven’t picked up on it, I would guess no one else has either.”



"Just for arguments sake, what were you after?” Dean asks, trying to get back on track.

Mia chews her lip and for reasons, she cannot explain, decides to be straight with him, “Four Arresters and Sheaths, a couple of months worth of MRE’s. Although, I would take one of those Incapacitators if you have a spare.”

Dean stands thoughtfully, before speaking, “Oddly specific. What do you need them for?”

“Looking to set up a few caches dotted around the realms and need to improve my protective options.” Mia says, calmly.

Dean sighs, “Nice try. I think we both know that if you were setting up bolthole caches and got in here with free reign, you would take all you could get. The numbers seem too specific, you want that many for a specific reason.”

Mia shrugs as best as she can in the ultra tight restraints, “I have plans for four in and around the realm that I will be laying low in.”

“In that case why ask for only one Incapacitator? Why not come looking for weapons too? More to the point, why offer to come back after you have taken what you need?” Dean asks, scrutinising her.

Mia knows he is right and struggles to answer, instead she looks down at the floor and awkwardly shifts in her restraints.

Dean thinks for a moment and takes a deep breath. “You’re probably getting sore, wrapped up like that. I can call the authorities and they can get the truth out of you.” He pauses for a moment, “Or, you tell me the truth.”

“Then you hand me over?” Mia asks while thinking, “I need to get out of here, or it will be too late.”

“I give you my word, I will listen.” Dean says, gently, then solemnly continues, “If you give me a reason to not turn you in, I will let you go.”

Mia silently fumes at herself for letting herself be put in this position, before nodding, “The whole truth. Ask me anything you want and I will answer. But please, don’t paralyse me again.”

[Bandit666]

Wow finally I’ve caught up with all the fantastic things that have happened since I took a break and while I’d be delighted to simply pick out one part here and another there that I enjoyed the most it’s simply too difficult to do so @wolfman so I hope you’ll simple accept my gratitude for all the effort you put into telling the fabulous story

[GreyLord]

My brain is tired. Or, perhaps, it is just dead. I can't think of words to describe how wonderful this episode is. So I say sadly, inanely, this is stupendously terrific.

[wolfman]

Wow finally I’ve caught up with all the fantastic things that have happened since I took a break and while I’d be delighted to simply pick out one part here and another there that I enjoyed the most it’s simply too difficult to do so @wolfman so I hope you’ll simple accept my gratitude for all the effort you put into telling the fabulous story

Thank you @Bandit666 for your very kind words and I hope you accept my gratitude for your continued patr

My brain is tired. Or, perhaps, it is just dead. I can't think of words to describe how wonderful this episode is. So I say sadly, inanely, this is stupendously terrific.

onage.

Thank you for you kind words, my friend. This was a hard one to write as, I wanted to get the balance just right, i am so pleased it has been so well recieved.

[Caesar73]

Thank you for you kind words, my friend. This was a hard one to write as, I wanted to get the balance just right, i am so pleased it has been so well recieved.

It is truly an amazing Chapter my Friend. And in my humble Opinion it is perfectly balanced.

[wolfman]

Thank you for you kind words, my friend. This was a hard one to write as, I wanted to get the balance just right, i am so pleased it has been so well recieved.

It is truly an amazing Chapter my Friend. And in my humble Opinion it is perfectly balanced.

I thank you for you very kind words and continued patronage. I hope you enjoy what is to come.

[wolfman]

@Bandit666 @Caesar73 @GreyLord @slackywacky

Mia rocks herself back and forth until she can sit on the floor comfortably.

Dean awkwardly picks her up and sets her down in a chair, supporting her so she doesn’t fall, then unhooks her ankles from her waist.

“Thank you.” Mia says, appreciating being off of the floor.

“I’m sorry, I didn’t do it earlier. I am a little scared of you and I wasn’t thinking.” Dean apologises.

Mia shrugs, “It is OK. Guessing I gave you a bit of a shock.” Mia concedes, while thinking, “Need to speed this up.”

“Yeah, I didn’t think I would be in my lab after the wedding reception, with a gorgeous warrior woman, all wrapped up.” Dean says, trying to sound confident and not quite managing it.

“To be fair, I had different plans for this evening too.” Mia says, giving him a gently smile.

Dean cannot hold her gaze, “Sorry.” He says sheepishly.

“Truth is, this my fault. I misjudged what I would be getting into and this is the cost.” Mia says, seething at herself.

Dean does a double take, having a moment of realisation, “That’s true isn’t it. You misjudged this whole thing.” He looks at her as if seeing her for the first time, “Everything you did on Felix Prime was planned and calculated to the nth degree. This wasn’t.” He strokes his chin thoughtfully, “Something’s happened. Something that’s forced your hand.”

Mia takes a slow deep breath and stares at the floor, numb as Dean continues, “You planned everything up to your death, flawlessly. I would guess you had a plan for what happened after, that was just as well laid out. This is not a part of that plan.” He looks down at her, in shock, “I am right aren’t I?”

Nodding Mia looks up at him and nods slightly, speaking barely above a whisper, “Yes.”

Dean shakes his head, “What could possibly have happened? What would make you take an unplanned risk for a few Sheaths and Arresters?”

“It wasn’t flawless.” Mia says, barely above a whisper.

“What do you mean?” Dean asks confused.

“Most of what I did on Felix Prime was flawless. However, there was one part, that I screwed up. As the celebrations started and food was consumed so rapidly, the grain repository would have been identified as a key asset early on, for protection and resources would have been allocated. I didn’t need to show myself to draw attention there. I did it, to lure Kim in.”

“You say that, but it gave you the chance to confess and take responsibility for everything you did.” Dean interjects.

“That was a spur of the moment confession. I hadn’t planned on that, but in that room, I felt the weight of everything and needed to tell someone.” Mia confesses, “In hindsight, I wish I hadn’t attacked Kim like that.”

Dean gives her a confused look before pulling a bottle from the fridge and taking a swig, “So if there was no need to tip us off about where you would be or what you had done, why do it?”

“My original plan was to bring down the Pax, fake my death and build a life in a quiet place without people, where I could find peace.” She hesitates for a moment, wondering if she can trust him, before taking a chance, “However, I found something in the files, that I could not walk away from and the reason I jumped Kim was to tell her about it. The problem was that I was too subtle and it got overlooked.” Mia says, trying to control her feelings.

Dean sees the maelstrom of emotions play across Mia’s face and leans forward, gently placing his hand on her arm, as he would for Ali if she were in this position, “It’s OK, I won’t judge. I will just listen.” He says, reassuringly.

“The problem is, that whilst she didn’t pick up on it, when she wrote down word for word what I said and the report fell into the hands of someone, who immediately saw what I was getting at.” Mia says, fighting the urge to cry, but taking comfort in the sincerity of the man listening.

Dean pushes every instinct he has aside and gently hugs her, letting her rest her head on his shoulder. “Let it out. What was the message you tried to pass on?”

“There is no UN out in the realms.” Mia says, feeling Dean’s arms around her, like a warm blanket, sapping her loneliness and guilt.

Dean frowns for a moment, unable to see the point of what Mia is trying to say, “If that is the hint, then it certainly is cryptic.” He says, confused then shrugs, “Although, if there was no UN on Earth, Kim and her sisters would not have been snatched by THIS and.... Oh God.”

“Lupita Carrillo was an Atlantean. She didn’t just leave clones of Kim on Earth.” Mia says, tears welling in her eyes. “I was so sure, Kim would pick up on it and find her sisters. I didn’t know how lost it would be amongst everything else.”

In the space of a few minutes, he has seen Mia transform from a calm but defiant prisoner, to an inconsolable wreck sobbing on the chair. In this moment, the big brother in him takes over and he lifts her from the seat and sits her in his lap, with her head om his shoulder and hugs her, gently rocking her. “It’s OK. Everything will be alright.” He assures her, while trying to process what she has just told him.

“I didn’t know she would write everything down that happened and was said.” Mia says, between sobs, “Kim didn’t pick up on it, but she did.”

Dean’s blood goes cold, seeing the moment that the UN THIS team tore his sister away from the family on that awful day.

Mia begins to compose herself and Dean pulls out a handkerchief and dries her eyes and lets her blow her nose. “It’s OK. Take your time.” He says quietly.

“When I was being conditioned, there was a woman called Cassandra. She ran the Carnal Warfare department and put me through hell. She escaped the destruction of the Hub and went into hiding. Then somehow, she got hold of Kim’s report. She has them and will put those girls through hell and turn them into assassins and spies, or worse.” Mia explains numb.

Dean can’t bring himself to let Mia go, feeling her pain on a primal level, knowing that she needs him in this moment, “How many are there?” He asks, almost dreading the answer.

Mia closes her eyes, “There were ten originally. Four died at the claws of the Annunakin before I found out about them. With one more dying through childhood illness and two more in the process of being taken. There should be three being held now.”

“OK, let me think for a minute.” Dean says, knowing the state his sisters and the rest of the family will be in after several hours of hard partying.

“There is no time. She has the girls now and will start conditioning them.” Mia confesses, bitterly, “If I had just been straight with Kim, five of them would be alive. It is my fault, that two died.”

Dean hugs her close, as much for his own sake as her, his head bursting with emotions and flashbacks to the day his sister was taken.

“I know where they are but they will be moved off site, by tomorrow afternoon and if I can’t spring them, it could be weeks before I pick up their trail. I have to get moving.” Mia explains, regaining some of her composure.

Dean stares into space, numb, “When they came for my sister, I remember leaping forward onto the grenade and the pain that followed. I lay there watching those men, drag Ali away. All I could do was lay there weakly reaching out for her. I can still see the terror in her eyes, as they dragged her screaming from the house.” He looks up at Mia, commanding the restraints to release, “I couldn’t help her then, but I can help these girls now. What do you need?”

Mia feels the straps loosen and rolls her shoulders, managing to withdraw her arms from the modified sleeve straps, behind her “I’ll take the sleeves and Arresters if you have spare and an Incapacitator.”

Dean averts his gaze as she slips naked from the lab coat and begin to put on her clothes. Seeing him blush, Mia smiles to herself, “If you can help, I am cool for you too look.”

“I am a dickhead, but not that kind of dickhead, love. I will just be a couple of minutes.” Dean stammers, heading to the door with his eyes closed, “Fuck me, she is gorgeous, but it just doesn’t seem right at a time like this to ogle her.”

He slips through the door to the store room and sees the photo of his sister from her last rugby game. He touches the photo, “This could be my only chance to redeem myself for failing you.” He pledges, silently.

A sense of calm overcomes him, growing with each step. He passes the racks and pods, creating a dimensional collection of his finest work, dropping the gear he was going to work on.

He returns to the workshop to find Mia pulling on her baggy jeans, “Sorry Dean, you missed the show.”

“Don’t get me wrong, you are an absolutely stunning woman and If things were different, I would jump at the chance.” He sighs, “It just doesn’t feel right to take advantage.” He says, handing over the requested gear.

“That makes you one of a very small number of men, not looking to use me somehow.” Mia says, with a faraway look in her eyes.

“To be honest, the opposite is kind of true. I want to help you in any way that I can.” Dean confesses, “I know time is short for you, however, if you can give me a few minutes, I can show you how to optimise your set up and get the most out of your Sheath.”

Mia considers for a moment and nods, “I am going to trust you.”

Dean hands her a Sheath and smiles, “If you could slip this on, then we can get you sorted. Do you know how to use Dimensional pockets?”

Mia takes the garment and nods, sending her jeans to a pocket, before slipping her legs into the Sheath and then with Dean’s help, pulling on the upper half and zip-sealing it.

“I thought you prevented magic being used?” Dean asks, curious.

Mia smiles, bashfully, “Not quite. I can control the ebb and flow of magic and can stop a person using it, or prevent it being used in an area, or I can boost it’s use.”

“Interesting.” Dean says, before gently taking her left hand and turning her arm to show the display on the inside of her arm, “If you enable direct neural interface, it will let you control things with a thought.”

Mia taps the screen and nods, “Done.”

“Nice. Now select and enable auto fit. This will allow the suit to maintain the optimum fit, whatever you wear under it. If you can enable peripherals, as well as NIAG and select hidden profile, we can really get you set up.”



Less than ten minutes later, Mia has her suit optimised with targeting, HUD, flight capabilities, a full suite of power tools and an understanding of the suits many functions. She nods, impressed, “I had no idea, of all that they can do. When I get to the girls, I can get each of them into one of them to protect them.”

Dean looks at her in the form fitting armour and allows himself a smile, “You are all set up now.” He swallows a pang of regret and the smile falters, “I won’t lie, I would like to go with you.”

Mia looks at him with sympathy and reaches out to brush his arm, “I appreciate the offer, but even with this suit, it will be rough. I may not be able to protect you.”

“Maybe not, but I can give you tactical options, you may not have considered and I can watch your back.” Dean blurts out, knowing this is the point of no return. “Besides, if things go awry, I can run and get the family.”

Mia smiles softly, “You seem like a nice guy. With a sense of decency, you know. But, I will have enough to do, without a civilian to watch over.” She regrets the words as soon as she says them and moves to apologise and he stops her with the wave of his hand.

“I get it. I am not one of the special ones. However, if I come, I can set up real time surveillance and tracking, give you a heads up on enemy positions and confirm the position of the girls, remotely.” Dean admits, with a pleading look in his eyes. “Let me do something to help.”

Mia looks at him confused, “How can you do that?”

Dean shrugs, “I am not a soldier, only know a few cantrips and have no special powers. The closest I have been to war is a fight with Jimmy Mathers in year 6. I got a black eye, but he got a broken nose.”

He smiles at the memory, before continuing, “I have used a gun on a range, but never in anger. Out of all the family, I am probably the worst option. At least on paper.” He looks her in the eye and with a sense of surety, he is unaccustomed to speaks softly, “However, I have access to advanced, experimental technology and will do anything to protect my sisters.”

[Caesar73]

That was quite the Turn my Friend - Lupita, Cassandra? Now several Veils are lifted. It becomes clear now, why Mia did was she had to do. Quite a fewl pieces of the Puzzle fall into Place. And so effortlessly,

[Bandit666]

I have to agree with @Caesar73 a few puzzle pieces have dropped into place all so effortlessly but then can we expect less from someone so gifted. Keep up the great work @wolfman

[wolfman]

@Bandit666 @Caesar73

There were a lot of moving parts in this chapter and it took a few rewrites to make it feel smooth and flow just right, i am so pleased with how it worked out

Thank you for your kind words and patronage. There is so much more to come.

[wolfman]

@Bandit666 @Caesar73 @GreyLord @slackywacky

The air is cool and still, a scent vaguely reminiscent of pine and pepper lingers in the air. The waning moon, casts a half light over the, until recently deserted, logging mill, a mile and a half away.

Two figures lay flat under a low bush, watching the compound, in black Sheaths. “This is definitely the place.” Mia subvocalises over comms.

Dean nods, riding a wave of adrenaline, “Yeah. I see them.”

Mia looks over at him, puzzled, “How?”

“Log onto the Tacnet. I will show you.” Dean says, softly.

“Whoa. The fuck?” Mia exclaims under her breath.

“The drones I released when we arrived in the realm, are high above us and providing full mapping details on every building, vehicle and life form in a ten mile radius.” Dean explains, before his voice begins to waver, “The signatures of the blue dots on the top floor match Ali and her sisters. That is them.”

“They are alive and if I am reading this right, they are OK but distressed” Mia says without thinking, then, like a thunderbolt, she is shaken by the sound of Dean crying. Mia hesitates for a moment, before removing her helmet and hugging Dean.

Dean removes his helmet with a flourish and wipes his eyes, “Sorry, just a bit emotional. I just hate this. Being so near but feeling so useless.”

“It’s OK. I will move in soon.” Mia assures him, more than she assures herself. Her face screws up, looking at the spread of people across the site.

“What’s wrong?” Dean asks, concerned.

Mia dons her helmet and brings up a display, “The girls are in the old office building of this site. Top floor, in what looks like a penthouse of some kind. By the looks of the people sitting on the second floor, it would appear to be the operations centre. Whereas the ground floor, looks to be kitchen and canteen.”

Dean nods, thoughtfully, before cursing his ignorance, “What’s the problem?”

She beckons him to follow and they shuffle, keeping low to take cover behind a large boulder. “Several to be honest. The only access to the penthouse is via a lift in the middle of the Ops Centre. Also they appear to be using the old bunk house for the mill as a barracks.” Mia continues, “A rough head count suggests that they are operating in three shifts. Once the alarm is raised, all of the personnel at rest will pour out of there and it becomes a free for all. This has to be quiet, or there is a risk of not getting clear with the girls.”

Dean thinks through the items he brought, and nods, “I have a spray on explosive compound, which you could put on the outer wall of the penthouse. If the hole is small enough and you use sound cancelling on your Arrester it would be a silent way in.” He offers.

Mia turns her visor toward him and smiles, “That actually sounds pretty handy. You have anything else stashed away?”

Dean slumps his shoulders, “I have a few bits, but nothing that would help with a covert insertion. The spray was unsecured and the drones are one of the main projects I have been working on.” He looks at her and hesitates before asking, “I am just a techie, not a soldier, I have a little magic but not much and no powers. Why did you really let me come along?”

Mia raises her visor to look him in the eye, “I could butcher everyone in the barracks and slaughter everyone in the main building, before dragging the girls out.” Checking the wind direction first, she pulls out a vape and takes a drag, “The problem is that I haven’t been able to plan and recon this site as much as I would have normally for an operation this delicate, as a result I need to use resources like the Sheath and Arrester to pull this off safely. To do that I need backup from someone who knows their stuff.”

Dean scoffs, “Any of the family could have taken you through their use. If you don’t want to tell me, that’s cool. Just don’t be like the rest of the family and keep me around because you feel sorry for me.”

Mia fixes him with a hard stare, “When lives are on the line, I do not take chances, I do not bring people for the sake of it and I do not fuck around.” She whispers harshly, “I have done my research. You are here because whilst you are not tactical, you are meticulous, resourceful and smart as hell. More than that you are intimately familiar with all safety systems I need and that was before, you set up real time surveillance over the area, like it was nothing. Also, in case you hadn’t guessed, I am not very touchy feely, the girls will need that. Now, if you are done feeling sorry for yourself, those girls need us.”

“I’m sorry. Everyone tip toes around, trying to shield me. I am not used to anyone in the family recognising what I could do, if given a chance. I appreciate it.” He chews his lip for a moment, before continuing, “Just for the record, I wouldn’t have offered to come, if I didn’t respect your skills as much as I do. I think you are kind of awesome.” He offers her a smile, which she returns tenfold, “Those girls need us. Let’s do this.”

Dean smiles back at her, thinking, “I wish she knew how much this means to me. I will never be able to repay her for the chance to redeem myself.”

Mia nods and smiles, thinking, “It feels kind of nice having someone to watch my back.”

She picks up her helmet and hesitates for a moment. Dean sits back stunned, when Mia leans in and kisses him on the cheek, whispering, “For luck.”

Dean touches his cheek, wishing her “Good luck.” However his words are lost on the breeze as she disappears into the undergrowth.

[Caesar73]

This Chapter is the quiet before the Storm. And maybe a new experience for Mia, as she says herself: Someone is watching her back. She is not alone anymore.

[slackywacky]

Dean has some interesting stuff up his sleeve.

Not a very long chapter, but that is okay, it is not always needed.

[GreyLord]

Counter-parts like Dean and Mia could be the perfect match. Mia would be too much to handle for even a super man. If Dean holds himself together during this rescue, he could show himself as worthy of Mia. Great work, Grandmaaster.

[Caesar73]

Counter-parts like Dean and Mia could be the perfect match. Mia would be too much to handle for even a super man. If Dean holds himself together during this rescue, he could show himself as worthy of Mia. Great work, Grandmaaster.

The Pairing of Dean and Mia is a really good Idea - I agree. Yin and Yang in some ways.