CHAPTER 9

Year: 04/12/2525

Planet: Sargasso

Location: Fairfield City, 4th precinct, I-15 Highway.

Amaranth sat in the backseat of the family SUV straightening her T-shirt’s collar, a Princess Sakura’s shirt with the character’s chest armor drawn on. She was wide awake feeling fully rejuvenated after only two hours of sleep despite being up practically all last night, and it was the same the night before as Nightstalker promised. She slid her finger on the tablet's screen, changing to the next page of Special Edition Shadow Kaiser volume 5. Due to it being a special edition, it also had an interview with the character designer of Asuka, Akemi Amano, who also designed Princess Sakura. One of the things Amaranth found interesting was that Akemi used different athletes from Crossfit and other sports for reference when designing the characters, giving them a muscular body type. In turn, this made them stand out among other female protagonists in the genre at the time.

The comic was a welcome distraction. It helped keep her mind going back to the place where Joseph died.

It kept her from remembering the place where Amaranth’s health seemed to deteriorate more and more every time she visited.

The place where every time she came out with a new pill or needle added to a growing list of needed medication.

Where she would’ve died eventually.

Amaranth lowered her tablet onto her blue jeans, putting it into sleep mode, and looked out the window. She watched passing cars and people walking on the sidewalk or eating outside. Amaranth’s thoughts, unable to be distracted anymore, turned towards Joseph's family. She wondered what they were doing right now. Mourning? Making funeral arrangements? Both? Amaranth could see it, Celty fighting through tears as she talked to a funeral director as she made plans for Joseph's funeral. The tragedy of it all was that she didn’t know she wasn’t burying Joseph. She was burying a lie. Amaranth wondered if Joseph felt that feeling of being fake the same way. Did he ever feel wrong?

A part of Amaranth was a mixture of gladness and jealousy that he didn't know the truth. That he didn’t have to carry the burden of what she knew. The questioning of identity.

‘Amaranth,’ interrupted Nightstalker.

Amaranth blinked, shaken from her thoughts. ‘Yes?’

‘Do you understand the plan?’ asked Nightstalker after a moment's pause.

Amaranth let out an exasperated sigh. ‘Yes, we went over this several times. If there is any physical test, I need to hold back.’

‘And I’ll tell you when you're not holding back enough,’ added Nightstalker.

‘Yeah, I know.’ Amaranth turned her attention towards Daisy’s parents. Jon was driving. He took a sip of coffee before tugging at his blue polo shirt collar. Amy sat in the passenger seat, taking a sip from her water bottle after taking a pill from a white bottle. She looked into the rearview mirror, then turned her head, looking at Amaranth.

“Is something the matter, Sweetie? You stopped reading.” inquired Amy.

“Oh, it's nothing. I… I’m just thinking,” answered Amaranth, looking to the side before back at Amy.

Amy’s brow furrowed as a worried frown crossed her face. “Sweetie, what’s wrong? Remember what we talked about yesterday? You can talk to us about anything.”

‘If only that were true,’ thought Amaranth as she pushed down the sinking feeling in her stomach. “It just… I’m going to-.” Amaranth looked away towards the world outside the car.

“I’m going back to the place where Joseph died.” Amaranth looked down at her hands. “I’m just wondering how his family is holding up.”

Amy’s face turned gloomy. “I see. In times like this, we can only pray for them,” Amy paused. “Daisy, do you want to reschedule the appointment for another time?”

“If you feel uncomfortable going back, then I’m sure Dr. Rashid can accommodate,” added Jon, looking at her through the rearview mirror.

‘We can’t afford that. It’ll create more suspicion and take up too much time.’

Amaranth shook her head. “No, I’ll be alright. Nothing to worry about.”

Amy nodded, accepting the answer. Amaranth got the sense she and Jon didn’t quite believe her. Amy looked down at Amaranth’s neck. “Sweetie, where’s your bear necklace? You usually wear it.”

Amaranth hesitated; she didn’t consider that Daisy’s parents would notice. “I lost it. I think the chain broke while I headed back inside yesterday, and it was somewhere in the garden. I was going to look for it, but then… You know,” she said, hoping it was a good enough cover.

“Oh, don’t worry, sweetie, we’ll look for it once we get back home,” said Amy.

“If we can’t find it, we’ll buy you a new one.”

Amaranth nodded. “Alright, I hope I find it again…,” Amaranth looked out the window, her thoughts turning towards her original. ‘I hope I can find her and bring her home.’

The rest of the trip was silent, minus the music playing through Amaranth’s earbuds. It was a song from the Dark Blader anime called ‘Heart of steel’ followed by an unreleased track for the Princess Sakura movie OVA ‘Cry out for a Hero’. Amaranth tilted her head back, closing her eyes, letting the intense music sweep her away. With everything that happened the songs spoke to her in ways that didn’t before. They resonated with her, singing about these heroes suffering through trials and tribulations to pursue their goals and doing the right thing. Amaranth knew she would one day walk the same path. A part of her, a small voice of doubt, wondered if she could do this? She already took the first step, but further down, how would she gather enough money to run away and even attempt to accomplish her goal? Where would she even start?

‘Amaranth, focus on becoming stronger. We’ll figure it out as we gather more information, chimed Nightstalker.

‘Right.’ Nightstalker was right; she couldn’t doubt herself, not now. She needed to focus on getting stronger and acting normal. Well, as normal as she could act, considering her current situation. With that, Amaranth continued to listen to the following few songs, tapping her fingers to the rhythm on her knee, letting her imagination run.

---------

Year: 04/12/2525

Planet: Sargasso

Location: Fairfield City, 4th precinct, Fairfield Emergency Hospital.

A little over thirty minutes later, they arrived at the hospital, and just like earlier in the week, they met Dr. Rashid at the entrance. Daisy's parents filled out some paperwork and then followed him to his office, this time on the second floor. During the trip, Amaranth noticed that Dr. Rashid led them to the elevator on the other side of the waiting room instead of the nearest past… Joseph’s room. Amaranth sat on the examination table, fiddling with her wristband while Jon stood and Amy sat in a chair. Amaranth swung her legs slightly back and forth, wrinkling the paper. Dr. Rashid tapped on his datapad and then lowered it, switching his attention to Amaranth and Daisy’s parents.

“Mr. and Mrs. Spencer, Daisy, I have good news: the test results came in. ” Rashid let out a joyous chuckle. “Daisy is by all accounts healthy as if she had never been sick in the first place. Now, her hormone levels are slightly above average, and her myostatin levels are slightly lower than the norm.”

“Is it something to worry about?” asked Amy.

Rashid lifted an assuring hand. “Nothing to worry about, Mrs.Spencer; they’re still within healthy levels. In fact, it's quite normal during puberty for hormones to fluctuate. We also examined the MRI results. ”

Amaranth stiffened, steeling herself, “What did you find?” she asked, her voice squeaking.

‘Calm down, I told you that they won’t find anything, ’ said Nightstalker.

‘I know, it’s just an automatic reaction.’

“Don’t worry, we didn’t find anything. By all accounts, you're in the clear, with no abnormalities. Now-” Rashid pulled out his tablet from under his arm. “Before we continue, is there anything you want to tell me? Did anything more unusual happen? Do you have any questions about the tests we're going to perform today? Any worries I need to alleviate?”

‘I should tell him the same half-truth I told Jon. He or Amy are going to tell Dr. Rashid anyway,’ Amaranth coughed and glanced nervously to the side. “Well… Tuesday, I woke up early and-” Amaranth rubbed the back of her head and licked her back teeth, “ -did some calisthenics. Despite my parents telling me to wait.”

“She just got a little excited. We made sure she only did as much as her body would allow, and she doesn’t overextend herself,” explained Jon.

“I see… there’s nothing wrong with her moving about as long as it's done carefully,” Dr. Rashid looked at Amaranth with a disapproving frown, then exhaled. “As for you, I understand with your condition gone, you want to move about and push yourself, but as your doctor, I can't stress enough that you don’t stress your body too much until we see the results of today’s physical performance test. We’re in uncharted waters,” stressed Rashid.

“The physical test—I understand it's different from Daisy’s physical therapy—but it won’t push her too hard, will it?” Amy asked.

“Don’t worry, Mrs. Spencer, the PPT was designed for patients who suffer from muscle atrophy due to lack of movement. Rest assured, she won’t be pushed past what her body can handle. Also, Dr. Morales will be administering the test, so there’s nothing to worry about.”

Amaranth smiled. Dr. Morales was her physical therapist when she transferred to leg braces and helped her maintain as much muscle as she could when she was wheelchair-bound. She was always encouraging and gently pushing Amaranth to do her best. To make therapy more fun, she would call it either Mobile armor training or Bio-Knight training.

Amy nodded, relaxing. “Thank you.”

“You’re welcome,” Dr. Rashid tapped on his datapad before returning his attention to the Spencers. “Now, about your daughter’s Tuesday morning workout. What calisthenics did she do, and how many?”

“I started with stretches followed by two reps of push-ups, one-arm push-ups, sit-ups, squats, one-leg squats, and planks, with proper breaks. I did some research on Waypoint,” Amaranth added.

At that answer, Dr. Rashid stopped. “You did two of every one of those exercises.” Rashid shook his head.

“Yes, considering you can now walk with no difficulty… But even then … I didn’t expect her to be able to do two reps of that many exercises a day after-” he stammered, rubbing his temple with one hand. “Your daughter is more capable than initially thought. It's astounding,” he said, sounding breathless.

“So, is it alright for me to work out and go to the gym?” asked Amaranth, sitting up straighter, causing the leather on the examination table to crease.

“Well, it's clear that you’re quite capable, but I believe you should take the physical evaluation first. Before we continue, is there anything else you would like to know, I need to know, or need clearing up?” asked Dr. Rashid.

“Well, Daisy started eating four cans of canned protein after every workout,” mentioned Jon. Dr. Rashid coughed, nearly dropping his datapad.

“Four cans!?” Dr. Rashid gasped before regaining his composure.

“Excuse me,” he apologized before continuing. “But four cans? Each can contain a day's worth of nutrients and calories for a single person. It's not surprising that she would get an increased appetite, considering now that her body is fully functioning, especially since she's just going through puberty, but to eat four cans… Is she feeling alright? Any stomach aches or the like?”

‘Say you had slight indigestion or something to seem less peculiar.’ ordered Nightstalker.

‘That’s going to be hard to do,’ Amaranth shrugged, lifting a hand to push a bang to the side. “I had a slight stomach ache, but after a nap, it went away.”

“I see,” hummed the doctor. “While it's important to bring your weight to healthy levels and canned protein is a good way to do it. You have to be careful how much and how fast you eat. We don’t want you to reenact the Exorcist.”

Amaranth folded her arms and pouted. “Not funny. Stick to your day job,” she said, sounding annoyed, but her smirk, followed by a chuckle, showed her true feelings.

Everyone joined in the chuckle before Rashid continued. “Is there anything else?”

“Sunday there… there was a boy named Joseph, a patient who died-” Amaranth squeezed her knees and took a deep breath. “I was wondering if there is a way to check how his family is doing?”

“Daisy, I understand your worries, but Dr. Rashid can’t tell you such information without permission. There are strict rules and regulations about such things,” chided Amy gently.

Dr. Rashid nodded. “I’m afraid your mother is right. I know the doctor who can tell you, but he and I can’t tell you anything without violating HIPAA. I’m sorry, but that's all I can tell you.”

“No, I understand. It was stupid and rude of me to ask you. I wasn’t thinking…. I’m sorry, I just-” started Amaranth, swallowing another lump. “I just wanted to help her in any way I can.”

Amy placed a hand on Amaranth’s shoulder. “Sweetie, It’s alright, you have been through a lot within a short amount of time,”

“It's understandable why you ask,” Jon came up beside her and gave Amaranth a reassuring smile before looking at Dr. Rashid. “Thank you, Doctor.”

“You're welcome-” Dr. Rashid turned to Amaranth with a reassuring smile. “Don’t beat yourself up too much. You're young, and your heart was in the right place,” said Dr. Rashid before clearing his throat giving Amaranth a moment.

“Another thing, it's about the media. They’ll find out about Daisy soon, if not already,” said Jon.

Dr. Rashid nodded sympathetically. “Not to worry, Mr. Spencer, this hospital has a strict policy regarding the media. Unless given explicit permission and they inquire about your daughter by name, we will not reveal any information nor allow any news crew beyond the first floor. Violators will be treated as trespassers. Our hospital head takes patient confidentiality and rights very seriously, more so than any other,” assured the doctor.

“Thank you,” said Amy. “We have a plan; we’ll answer any questions as long as they're tactful.”

“Understandable considering how… opportunistic some reporters are. Now, before we begin, by law, I'm required to have you sign this.” He handed Jon and Amy his datapad. “By signing this, you permit tests to be performed on your daughter and understand you can stop us at any time if you feel that no more tests need to be performed.”

Jon and Amy took the data, taking a few minutes to read it over before signing their names on it. Afterward, they handed the datapad back.

Rashid took the datapad and walked over the scale on the other side of the room on Amaranth’s left side. “Alright, before we head to the Wellness Center, I just need to get her vitals and weight. Daisy, please take off your shoes and get on the scale.”

Amaranth slid off her shoes and headed towards the scale. She stepped on and watched the digital numbers rising and lowering as the computer calculated her weight, taking clothing into account. After a few minutes, the digital numbers stopped fluctuating, reading at an even eighty-eight pounds.

“It seems you've gained two pounds since Sunday,” observed Rashid as he typed the results into the datapad.

“Is that strange?” asked Amy.

“Oh, not at all. It's quite normal for body weight to fluctuate one or two pounds daily. Now, Daisy, please get off the scale and stand over here,” asked Dr. Rashid gently.

‘Actually. You did gain two pounds. Mostly muscle and a little fat.’ said Nightstalker.

‘Ok, good to know,’ beamed Amaranth.

Amaranth stepped to the side of the scale and stood in front of the measuring tape. She turned around with her back against the wall. Rashid lowered a plastic slide until it sat on top of her head. Rashid hummed as he lifted the slide several times and typed the results in his datapad. “It looks like you grew an inch,” commented Dr. Rashid. “Not unusual; stretching temporarily adds an inch or two to height due to an elongated spine.”

Amaranth wondered. ‘Hey, Nightstalker-’

‘Yes, you grew an inch taller. It's part of why you were so ravenous after your workouts.’

‘Nice to know,’ Amaranth folded her arms and pouted in faux disappointment. “So, you’re telling me I should give up on my dreams of playing basketball.”

Dr. Rashid let out a chuckle. “I wouldn’t say that. You’re still growing, and based on your parents. You have a good chance of being quite tall.”

Jon let out a laugh. “That’s right, your mother and I were 5’10 when we were 16. I still remember how, even to someone my size, intimidating she and her ga-”

“Now, honey, let Dr. Rashid work,” said Amy, giving a sweet smile that didn’t reach her eyes. She discreetly gave Jon a slight jab with her elbow.

Jon chuckled. “Right, sorry, Doctor,” Amaranth cocked an eyebrow, wondering what was that about, then shrugged it off.

“No trouble,” Dr. Rashid typed some more into the datapad before placing it under his arm. “Alright, and we’re done. Amaranth, please put on your shoes and follow me to the Wellness center.”

Amaranth put on her shoes and followed Dr. Rashid further up the hall along with Daisy's parents. They passed by nurses and doctors carrying datapads and medical tools. A janitor followed by a cleaning drone passed them going in the opposite direction. They kept walking until they reached a set of elevators. They went up to the wellness center on the 4th floor. After the doors opened, the group was greeted with the familiar sight of a glass window with various exercise machines such as treadmills, benches, and weight machines with a clear window showing an overlooking view of the park across the street.. Amaranth had been here many times while practicing walking with braces and later to prevent her muscles from atrophying further. The strange part was that it was empty. Usually, by this time, the center had at least a few patients.

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“The director had all appointments either rescheduled or transferred to the Wellness center further down the street,” explained Rashid.

“I hope it didn’t cause too much disruption. I understand how methodical the hospital scheduling is,” said Amy.

Rashid gestured with his hand and spoke with pride. “Don’t worry, Mrs. Spencer. We have contingency plans for similar events and a week's notice. With a little tweaking here and there, we implemented them, so any disruption was far less than it would’ve been.”

Amy nodded with satisfaction and admiration at how much of a well-oiled machine the hospital was.

The group turned left, following Dr. Rashid towards the receptionist’s desk. Halfway there, Amaranth stopped after noticing the office board covered with flyers and ads pinned on with thumbtacks. She walked towards the billboard and read the flyers that caught her attention. The first one was a call for volunteers for the hospital and the second was an ad for swordsmanship classes at the Fairfield's Johnson Mercer Community center.

‘Are you interested in making a difference? Do you like bringing a smile to a sick child’s face? Do you have at least an hour to spare? If yes, become a Lollipop leader today. This volunteer position is for teens between the ages of 13-18. For more information call the number: 999-001-2568 or go to the Fairfields Emergency Hospital’s website. A love for children and a bright smile is required!’

Amaranth grabbed the flyer, fortunately, there was more than one. She stared at the flyer, thinking about how many children were like her and Joseph, wheelchair-bound or bedridden, unable to do activities that so many take for granted. Amaranth swallowed hard as her chest tightened as she thought about the sick children, younger than her, cut off and isolated from the outside world and their friends unable to run, to play, to live. That feeling of separation and pain was all too familiar but was made bearable by friends and family. As Amy said, a friend can make all the difference.

She knew what she wanted to do.

‘I know what you're thinking, and we don’t have time for it, especially when you take the swordsmanship classes. If you volunteer, it could interfere with training, so no,’ said Nightstalker.

‘Then we’ll make it work. Please understand, I have to do this. They’re like me, minus the clone part. It says an hour of my time, so that’s all I’m going to give. I’m sure we can fit that in. Please, I just… I just want to ease their suffering.’

Nightstalker growled then sighed. ‘Alright, how about this. You get more information, and we’ll see then.’

Amaranth smiled. ‘Deal.’

“Interested in volunteering, Daisy?” asked Amy's voice.

Amaranth turned around and showed the flyer to the group. “Can I, please? I’m old enough, and since I‘m able, I want to-.” Amaranth stood straighter. “I want to help those like me and Joseph. I want to make a difference in their lives. I want to give them a friend.”

Amy smiled, “Oh, Daisy, I’m so proud, but maybe you should slow down. Let's see the test results and what this position entails before signing you up, " she cautioned.

Jon turned towards Dr. Rashid. “I agree with your mother. I’m proud that you're taking it by the horns with this new lease on life, but I think you're going a little too fast. What does the job entail? What’s your opinion?”

“If your daughter passes the tests and based on what she said earlier, it's my professional opinion that she’ll be able to handle the position. Her job would be to hang out with her assigned charge simply. She’ll play with them, help with homework, talk to them, etc. She can come in on Monday, Wednesday, Friday, or weekends. The hours are 9:00 am to 12:00 pm or 3:00 pm to 6:00 pm. You can choose from those two blocks, but you must stay for at least an hour, and if anything changes, give at least a week's notice. She just needs to fill out the application online, and once approved, she’ll also need to fill out some paperwork and take a class for a day,” explained Rashid.

“Well, that does it. If you pass the test, then you can volunteer,” said Jon.

‘We can work with that, but you can only stay for an hour- an hour and a half at most. We might have to work extra hard to stay on schedule,’ said Nightstalker.

‘That’s fine with me.’

“I also want to take those sword classes,” said Amaranth, taking the second flyer from the board, giving it to Daisy’s parents. “Like Sakura.”

Jon took the flyer and showed it to Amy, their eyes skimmed over the flyer.

“Well, the classes are from 3:00 pm to 5:00 pm on Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday so it doesn’t interfere with your school schedule,” noted Jon.

“And the teacher is an accredited HEMA instructor. He’s doing it for the community and he only asks for donations in return. She has to bring her own practice sword .... I don’t have a problem with it, but are you sure? I understand you’re excited, but you might be trying to do too much,” said Amy.

Amaranth smiled. “Don’t worry, Mom. I can handle it, and if I can’t, I’ll promise to let you know.”

Amy let out a sigh. “Alright, as long it doesn’t negatively affect you,”

Jon lowered the flyer. “Well, I think that’s settled. If the doctor approves then we’ll sign you up for the classes and volunteer work.”

“Yes, thank you!” said Amaranth.

With that, the group continued to the receptionist’s desk. The person behind the desk was a young man with black hair, brown eyes, and golden skin, indicating he spent just enough time under Sargasso's sun. His name was Nurse Freeman. A little older than Maxine, he was one of the many people that Amaranth saw quite a few times, especially near the end of her leg brace years before being confined to a wheelchair. Freeman was very much like Amy in the sense that he kept things a certain way. His neatly organized desk, stapler and staples on one side, and a notepad that contained a checklist with half the items checked off. He stopped typing on his keyboard, the holo-screen disappearing and straightening the right sleeve of his blue scrub. “Dr. Rashid,” he greeted before turning his attention to the family. “Mr. and Spencer-” when he looked at Amaranth, he gasped. “Wow, I… I heard about your… your miraculous recovery, but to actually see it for myself…” Freeman coughed and regained his equanimity. “I’m sorry, a part of me didn’t believe it.”

“It's alright, Freeman.” Jon let out a laugh. “I didn’t quite believe it myself until I saw it with my own eyes.”

Jon laughed. It was a rare sight to see Freeman this flustered. “OK, who’re you? The Nurse Freeman I know is never caught off guard.”

Freeman smiled and shrugged, turning his attention to Jon. “Well, excuse me for being human and caught by surprise every so often,” he chuckled before taking on a somber look. “But, it's good seeing Daisy like this, like a normal teenager.”

“Thank you,” said Amaranth. ‘But I’m far from normal.’

“You’re welcome,” Freeman typed a few keys on the keyboard, causing the holo-screen to manifest itself. “The Physical therapist is ready for you.”

“Thank you, Jacob,” said Rashid before urging the group to follow him through the double doors into the gym area.

They followed a green running track that circled around the room until they reached a wide back area away from the gym. This space contained different equipment, such as training stairs, a small treadmill, chairs, a table, an empty bookcase, and a piece of equipment that Amaranth was intimately familiar with from her leg brace years: the 10-foot-long parallel bars. Minus the bars, the area was set up to mimic best common tasks encountered in a home.

Waiting, a woman was welcoming them with a gentle smile. On her scrub shirt was the name tag, which read, ‘Dr. Katie Morales’. She was around Amy’s age but a couple of inches shorter, a bit more robust, and even stocky. Her brown hair was styled into a bob cut, and her skin was tan brown with a small scratch on the left cheek. Her most eye-catching feature was the prosthetic arm that replaced her left arm, covered in artificial skin that didn’t quite cut, giving the arm an uncanny look.

‘Act normally to avoid raised brows,’ she told herself. Amaranth stood at attention, curling her right hand into a fist over her heart. “Squire Spencer reporting for training, teacher!” she said with force.

Dr. Morales briefly mimicked Amaranth's posture, placing her prosthetic hand over her heart. “At ease, Squire,” she said, smiling.

The two relaxed. Dr. Morales dropped the role-play for a second. “I never thought I'd ever see you healthy and walking again.”

Amaranth's smile widened. “It just means I’m one step closer to becoming a Bio-knight,” she said, continuing the role play.

“Good to hear, Squire! Be sure to do your best to meet the challenges that you’ll face today!” said Dr. Morales, doing her best to mimic Sakura’s mentor, Grandmaster Lee.

Jon let out a content sigh as a look of fondness crossed his features. “Seeing them like this always reminds me of my days in boot. I still remember being a toe out of line on the deck and ended up having my entire platoon quarter decking.” He glanced at Amy. “It also reminds me of a friend from high school.”

Amy looked at Jon, her smile strained. “Yes, and I’m sure your friend grew past that phase and probably looked back on it with embarrassment.”

Dr. Morales relaxed into her usual professional self before focusing on Amy and Jon. “Hello, Mr. and Mrs. Spencer. How are you today?”

“We’re ecstatic and just happy our daughter is healthy. We haven't been this happy in a long time,” said Amy.

Amaranth uncomfortably shifted on her feet from side to side, looking sideways.

Jon looked at Amaranth. “Is something the matter, my little flower?”

Amaranth was caught off guard and coughed to buy time. “Nothing; I’m just excited to get started, " she snapped her fingers suddenly. Hey, afterward, maybe we can go to the Richland Marketplace or the Fairfield’s Grand Mall, and let's invite Martha and Samantha,” she suggested.

“Woah, slow down, let's get through this first,” said Jon.

“Speaking of which, it's time to get started,” said Dr. Morales before turning her attention to Dr. Rashid. “Everything is ready.”

Dr. Rashid nodded, pleased with the answer. “Good,” he then bodily turned towards the Spencers. Now, let me reiterate: You can take a break or stop at any time.”

“I understand,” said Amaranth.

“Alright, let’s get started.” Dr. Morales led the group to the middle of the back section, where two cones, spread apart and with a line of blue masking tape between them, were located.

Dr. Morales stood by the first cone. “Now, for the first test, simply-” Katie put her feet together and stood straight. “Put your feet together and stand straight for ten seconds.”

“Ok, easy enough,” said Amaranth

‘Remember, you have to fake the harder tests being more difficult.’ reminded Nightstalker.

‘I know, I know,’ answered Amaranth.

Amaranth mimicked Dr. Morales and stood straight with her feet together. Morales pulled out a stopwatch and waited until a beeping sound was heard.

“Good job,” said Dr. Morales as she pressed the watch’s button to stop the beeping. “Before we continue, do you need to take a break?”

Amaranth was going to say no but then remembered what Nightstalker said. “Uh, yeah. I think I could use a couple of minutes.”

After her ‘break, ' they moved on to the next test, which included Amaranth standing with one foot in front of the other, her heel by her first toe, and after that, they moved on to the other tests. They included a walk on the treadmill, placing a book on the top bookshelf, getting up from a chair and sitting down as many times as she could in 10 seconds, walking up and down on a flight of stairs, and many similar tests that mimic basic home situations. The tests weren’t difficult for Amaranth, but for a couple of them, she had to pretend they were and take breaks. Nightstalker reminded her when it felt like she was making it seem too easy. It was a balancing act, and she had to pretend just enough to avoid further questions but not too much that the doctor would recommend limiting her physical activities to unacceptable extent.

After almost two hours, Amaranth was on the final test, a simple walk from one cone to the other. Amaranth walked from one cone to the other, being sure not to turn or walk too fast. Once she made it to the other end she twisted around the cone and walked back to the starting cone. Dr. Morales stopped the timer and turned her head towards Rashid. “10 seconds,” she said, typing the results in the datapad.

‘I think you should’ve held back a little more on that last one,’ critiqued Nightstalker.

‘Hey, trying to hold back is harder than it looks,’ snapped Amaranth before focusing back on the outside world.

“So, is that good?” asked Amaranth as she stretched her back with an audible pop before walking to Daisy’s parents’ side.

“In your case, yes, it's slightly above average,” explained Dr. Morales.

Amaranth stood straighter with a wide smile. “So does this mean-”

Dr. Morales nodded. “You are clear. You can go to the gym and participate in physical activities. Just make sure not to push yourself too hard. I recommend starting light. Listen to your body and avoid straining yourself too hard.”

“I want to learn martial arts and sword fighting. Is that alright?” asked Amaranth excitedly.

“As long as you take it slow and take a break when you're tired. Don’t go beyond your limit,” cautioned Dr. Morales

“Well then, I guess it's official, me. We will do a family and friends outing to the gym sometime this week. In fact, if you want, we can invite your friends after school hours and we can work out in the basement gym, ” said Jon, going to his daughter’s side and placing a hand on her shoulder.

“Yeah!” whooped Amarnath.

Amy spoke up, “And I’ll call their parents and schedule a time that’s good for them.”

“Fantastic, just remember to take it slow. Now that we have completed the tests, I just need you to follow me and fill-” At that moment, Dr. Rashid chatter buzzed. He lifted his wrist checking the device. “Oh my,” he whispered, his widening at whatever was on his chatter.

“What’s wrong, Dr. Rashid?” asked Amy, worriedly.

Dr. Rahsid took a deep breath and let it out. “I received a message from the receptionist from the first floor. A couple of news reporters are asking about your daughter at the hospital's front door. Not to worry, they didn’t ask for her by name, and if you want, security can have them removed.”

Jon used his calloused finger to pinch the bridge of his nose. “Great, the vultures finally came.”

“It's completely up to you, but if you feel your daughter is not ready then we can send them away and go through the back entrance to avoid any lurking around the front,” suggested Rashid.

‘I think you should go ahead and meet them. Give them a little taste, just enough to satisfy them. At least, for a while.’

‘I agree,’ Amaranth shrugged, pushing down the knot in her stomach. “I think we should go ahead and meet them.”

“Are you sure, sweetie? We can wait a little longer,” asked Amy.

Amaranth shook her head. “I mean, we have to deal with them sooner or later.”

Amy nodded slowly. “Alright, as long as you feel you can handle it,” said Amy.

“And there’s another thing,” said Dr. Rashid, straightening his lab coat and scrub shirt. The CEO and a representative from the Life Foundation have arrived and are coming up to meet you.”

“The Hospital's CEO and a Life Foundation representative are coming here?” gasped Amy, placing a hand over her mouth.

Amaranth hitched a breath. The Life Foundation was well known for its high-quality medicine, charity, and philanthropy. They also made the medicine Amaranth needed before she met Nightstalker and, for a couple of years, helped supply said medicine until Amy and Jon could buy it on their own. They even funded and built most of the hospitals in the city.

Nightstalker growled. ‘The Life Foundation.’

Amaranth arched an internal eyebrow. ‘What's wrong?’

‘That name sounds… Familiar. It brings… anger, but I don’t know why,’ Nightstalker huffed. ‘It’s nothing; just focus on the current situation.’

‘If you want to talk about-’

‘I SAID ITS NOTHING!!!’ yelled Nightstalker so loud that Amaranth rubbed her ear, soothing away the non-existent ache in a manner that looked like she was scratching an itch.

‘OK, OK,’ said Amaranth, though with some worry in her voice.

Dr. Rashid nodded. “According to the message, they want to set up a meeting and discuss some matters about your daughter with you.”

“Like what?” asked Amaranth.

“Such as setting out an agreement to the benefit of both parties, and help you handle the media,” said a business-like voice.

Everyone turned their attention toward the source. At the entrance were two people. The first person was a woman of Amy’s height, with almost pale skin and a few wrinkles. Her soft, narrow brown eyes seemed to complement her calming smile. Her salt and pepper hair was tied into a bun behind her head. She wore a gray business suit that showed she was of a slim build with small shoulders and hips, giving her an almost boyish appearance, but instead of pants, she wore a skirt with ballet flats. Overall, she radiated a welcoming yet business-like composure, more like a secretary or receptionist than a head of a hospital. She looked at her blazer and saw a Fairfields Hospital nametag with big, bold letters that read ‘CEO Dr. Hanna Chan.’

‘Ah, she must be the one in charge of the Hospital,’ surmised Amaranth before looking at the second woman.

On the other hand, the second woman was a hair taller than Jon and radiated a completely different feeling. Her youthful face was stoney with strong and squarish yet feminine facial features, as if it was carved from granite. Her dark blonde hair reached just the halfway point of her neck and was styled as a bob cut. She wore a dark crimson business pants suit with ballet flats and a guest nametag on her vest, which seemed a little loose for her frame. Her icy blue eyes seemed to gaze at everything with a predatory glint like she was constantly calculating. Making eye contact caused a shiver down Amaranth’s spine and her skin to crawl. The woman walked closer, only stopping to place a hanging safety rope back in its designated spot on the treadmill. They then stopped in front of a stunned Dr. Rashid. Dr. Rashid stood straight as a board.

“Dr. Chan, Ms. Unger,” greeted Dr. Rashid. “This is unexpected,”

“I understand, but when we heard about the media storm, we knew we had to put the meeting ahead of schedule,” explained Dr. Chan. She turned towards Daisy’s parents and walked towards them with her predatory partner beside her.

“Mr. and Mrs. Spencer, My name is Dr. Chan, CEO of Fairfield Hospital. I apologize for the impromptu meeting. Originally, we wanted to schedule one over the phone today, but life decided to throw a monkey wrench in our plans, " she greeted, happily shaking Jon’s hand and Amy’s.

“It's no trouble. Despite the circumstances, it's nice to meet you, Dr. Chan. You run a fine hospital, and your staff greatly helped my little flower,” complimented Jon, ruffling Amaranth’s hair. A smile formed on her face before she pushed it off.

“Indeed, they’re very efficient with their work. Dr. Rashid and Morales helped make our daughter’s life easier,” added Amy.

Dr. Chan clapped her hands together. “Well, thank you. I take pride in maintaining a high standard with all my staff, especially when it comes to patient-doctor relationships, and speaking of patients...”

She then turned towards Amaranth, extending her arm for a shake. “You must be Daisy. When they told me about you, I couldn’t believe it, but here you are, the miracle child,” The older woman chuckled, making the wrinkles on her face more pronounced.

Amaranth took her hand and shook it, shrugging with her free shoulder. “I prefer not to be called that. It feels weird. " She also didn’t think of herself as one; she was just a thief who got lucky or unlucky from a certain point of view. Dr. Chan placed an apologetic hand over her chest.

“Oh, apologies, I worked here for over 30 years and seen-” A flash of sadness crossed her features. “Many pass through, so seeing a patient fully recover always brings joy to this old soul,” Dr. Chan coughed, then stood straight. “Sorry, enough of my introduction. I’ll let Ms. Unger do hers.”

The other woman stepped forward and shook their hands as well. “Ms. Unger, Executive representative of the Life Foundation Corporation. It's a pleasure to meet you,” she said, her tone very cold and business-like.

“A pleasure, your company’s medicine kept my little flower alive,” greeted Jon.

“Yes, it also made it a little more affordable for us,” added Amy.

“Thank you. The Life Foundation takes pride in its philanthropic efforts.” Ms. Unger then looked at Amaranth, causing a cold shiver throughout the teenager’s body. She also felt Nightstalker tense, its apprehension growing like a cornered predator. She felt its urge to reel back and get away from the threat.

What got into it?

What got into her?

“And you must be Daisy Ann Spencer,” Ms. Unger extended her hand for a shake, crouching slightly. “And I see our medicines did wonders for you,” she joked with an unnatural smile that was more like bearing teeth. Amaranth got the impression she was exercising an underutilized muscle.

Amaranth, with only a split second hesitation, took the hand and shook. “Uhm, nice to meet you too,” she said before quickly letting go.

Ms. Unger nodded before standing up and focused back on Daisy’s parents. “Mr. and Mrs. Spencer, on behalf of the Life Foundation, I’m here to offer our support.” She straightened her tie. “What happened with your daughter is a mystery that we would like to assist in solving. Our doctors can work here, once moved in with the proper equipment. Hopefully, what we learn can help many people like her and beyond. Of course, you’ll be well compensated for your time,”

Amaranth lowered her gaze and bit her lower lip. For some reason, this woman made her feel uneasy. She couldn’t explain, but there was something off about her. Deep in her gut, Amaranth felt a voice screaming, ‘DANGER! GETAWAY! DO NOT TRUST!’; it was the same with Nightstalker as well.

‘I don’t trust her,’ it trembled.

Before Amaranth could question it, Amy went to her daughter’s side. “Thank you for the offer,” started Amy. “But we need time to talk it over as a family.”

Ms. Unger nodded. “Of course, it's a big decision, but keep in mind we want to get to the bottom of this so that we can help many more people.”

“But, take all the time you need. We don’t want you to feel pressured,” added Dr. Chan, stepping forward and giving the intimidating woman a side eye.

Ms. Unger then pulled a small datapad out of her vest pocket, handing it over to Daisy’s parents. “Now, I believe we have some reporters to deal with. I’ve prepared this for your family.”

“What’s this?” asked Jon, taking the datapad.

“It contains a list of answers and general statements made and reviewed specifically for this scenario. If you wish to go ahead and face the media, I suggest your family take the time to review the list when you get the chance.”

Jon opened the datapad, lowering it enough so Amaranth and Amy could see the list. True to her word, it was a list of general questions with associated statements and answers ranging from ‘No comment’ to ‘We’re still negotiating an agreement’.

“This is quite comprehensive,” noted Amy. “Thank you.”

Amaranth shrugged, trying to be nonchalant. “Well, let's get this over with and meet them.”

“Are you sure, sweetie? We can still wait,” said Amy, placing an assuring hand on Amaranth's shoulder.

“Don’t worry, Mom, I’m ready. Just follow the plan, right?” said Amaranth.

Amy smiled. “Right,” she said before looking at Jon, nodding.

Jon stood up, turning his attention to the two businesswomen. “We’ll meet with the reporters to schedule an interview.”

Ms. Chan nodded in approval. “That’ll be for the best. We must take control and try to keep things on our terms. I’ll alert the receptionist to tell the journalist that we’ll talk to them to schedule an interview in thirty minutes,” She turned to Dr. Rashid and Dr. Morales. “In the meantime, Dr. Rashid, Dr. Morales, you may return to your duties.”

“Yes, Ma’am,” they headed towards the door, but before leaving the group, they stopped, wished the family fair wishes, and left, returning to their normal routine.

Dr. Chan then focused on the Spencers. “Alright, please, follow us. On the way here, we had one of our meeting rooms set aside to have a private environment for our meeting with the reporters. It's on the 6th floor.”

The family followed the two women to the elevator and proceeded to the sixth floor.