Novels2Search
Our World- Season Two
S2E5: The Truth Hurts

S2E5: The Truth Hurts

—The Nuclear Frontier (Remaster)—

-Season 2, Episode 5-

-Dimension 2 (Reset)-

(AH) Ashes To Ashes-

Washington DC Outskirts, 2017-

Ash and smoke. That’s what Alex smells as he opens his eyes. He sits up, rubbing the back of his head. A warm liquid meets his palm, and he removes the hand to see what the fluid is. Blood. He looks around the wreckage for any other survivors. None. “Shit…” He says under his breath. A piece of metal makes a sound behind him, and he jumps. “Shit, indeed. You’re lucky I was here when you crashed.” A man’s voice says. Alex faces him, meeting eyes with the tall man. He has blue eyes, and long, messy brown hair. He’s well dressed, with a black suit and blue necktie to compliment his hair and eyes. “Nice to meet you. I’m as close to God as you’re ever gonna get.” He says, extending his hand out. Alex reluctantly takes it and gets to his feet. “If you’re as close to God as I get, what do I call you?” Alex asks. The man smiles. “The Director, considering I direct your lives how they need to go. For example, I kept you alive just now.” He says. Alex looks at him, skeptically. “Did you now? Because I feel fine, and the helicopter didn’t break in a way that would have killed me.” He says. The Director glares at him. “Okay, smart guy. Answer me this: If you were to die, would the world change?” He asks. Alex sits for a moment, and smirks. “Doesn’t matter. It already has while I was here.” He says. The Director smirks. “Nice answer. Listen, I need you for something. Division 18 has fallen, and Lucy, Abigail, and the others are dead. I saw it. I need you to take over the remnants of Division 18’s army and fight the Adam’s Church. It’s the way things are supposed to be, Father Adam changed the timeline and I need YOU to fix it.” He says. Alex looks at him coyly. “And what’s in it for me?” He asks. The Director groans. “Fine. I can spare you from the bullet that’s supposed to kill you.” He says. Alex jolts to attention. “The what?” He asks worriedly. The Director chuckles. “Don’t worry about it. Now, will you do what I ask?” He asks. Alex sighs, nodding his head. “Yes, Sir.” He replies. The Director smiles. “Good. Now, listen closely. You should know about this, and if you don’t, you need to learn about it.” He explains. Alex listens to him, a look of disdain on his face. “Operation Faded Glory.” The Director says. Alex looks up at him, the hatred on his face turning into excitement. “For real?” He asks. Alex looks towards DC, the mushroom cloud still rising in the distance. “I get… to take over? Completely?” He asks. The Director nods. “Yep, I expect great things from you. Get to work.” He says, and Alex jumps up. The Director is gone as soon as he looks back for him, and Alex sighs. He looks back to the mushroom cloud, and he finds the urge for power overwhelming. “Hanover… that’s our main military HQ…” He says, looking around. He finds his way East and sets off.

(D18) Peace And Mind-

London, 2019-

The airplane flies over the vast, blue ocean. Lucy, Abigail, Rev, and Arthur sit in silence as the plane heads towards London, where they hope to get some help. “I’m glad we finally get to visit here for real, being in that bunker for the last two years sucked ass,” Lucy says. Abigail nods. “Yeah, hopefully, the plane doesn’t get shot down this time. That would suck ass.” She adds. The plane jolts from turbulence, and Rev jolts awake from his nap. “The plane’s going down!?” He asks, alarmed. Abigail and Arthur laugh at this, and Lucy smirks. “Yeah! Grab onto something, we’re about to hit the water!” She shouts at him, and Rev latches onto the seat before him. She starts laughing too, and Rev frowns. “Go back to Hell, asshole. You scared the shit out of me.” He says to Lucy, who’s curled up in her chair laughing. Rev flips her off and leans back. “If we’re not dying anytime soon, I’m going back to sleep.” He says. Arthur looks confused. “How’re ye tired? Yer sleeping all damn day now. Almost twelve hours!” He says. Lucy groans. “You know, after two years of living and preparing in that damn underwater base, I would have thought you’d have outgrown that speech impediment.” She says smugly. Arthur scoffs. “It’s no impediment, ‘tis a culture.” He says proudly. Lucy rolls her eyes and turns back around. “Plus, I’ve been tryin’ to use an American accent lately! Take a listen.” He says. Lucy groans and turns back around. “Hello. I would like to use my five American dollars to purchase a hot dog and soda, please.” Artur says confidently. Lucy just stares at him. “So you CAN control it, you just choose to sound like a moron.” She says with a smirk. Arthur frowns. “Shove it up yer ass, Demon.” Rev sits up and glares at the two still bickering. “Oi! Shove it up yer own ass, ye shamrock cocksucking WANKER! I’m tryin’ to get some sleep, and yer interrupting!” Rev shouts in a mock Scottish accent. Lucy bursts out in laughter and Arthur grows red in the face. “Yer lucky t’was funny, Rev,” he says, walking back to the end of the plane to grab a drink. Abigail takes a deep breath. “I just hope Niall will give us some kind of help… America is doomed without it.” She says. Lucy looks back at her, resting a hand on Abigail’s thigh. “He will. I know it.” Lucy says reassuringly. Abigail smiles and drifts off to sleep.

Abigail and Lucy stand before the door to the Prime Minister’s office. “Glad we kept Rev and Arthur back at the plane. Rev would voice his political opinions on Niall, and I think Arthur would try and score a win for the IRA or something.” Lucy says. Abigail shakes her head. “Just pretend to be mature when we get in there, please?” She asks. Lucy nods. Abigail smiles and takes a deep breath. She opens the heavy wooden doors, and Niall waves at them to come sit down. “Prime Minister Niall, Sir. It’s been a while.” Abigail says, extending a hand out to shake. Niall gently grabs it and kisses it, smiling. “Indeed it has, Abigail Bright. Gorgeous as always, I see. Like you haven’t aged a day.” He says with a smirk. Abigail chuckles. “A girl has her secrets.” She responds. Niall nods, sitting down in his chair. “I know you do. Hello, Lucy. A pleasure to finally meet you. Abigail spoke highly of you on the phone.” He says. Lucy smiles, revealing her fangs. “Lovely teeth you have, Lucy. Tell me, and be honest: Do you bite things? Like wood, plastic? Even metal?” He asks. Lucy looks confused. “Uh… no? Not that I’m aware of.” She replies. Niall laughs. “Figures. A Demonic friend of mine recently got a dog. Labrador Retriever. He keeps trying to take the blame for my chewed-up furniture when I dogsit.” Niall says. Lucy chuckles. Niall shakes his head while laughing. “Anyway, what can I do for you beautiful ladies?” He asks. Abigail clears her throat. “I’m sure you heard of the tragedy befallen America?” She asks. Niall nods. “I have. I am sorry. If you need anything, please ask me. I value our relationship as allies, and our friendship even more.” He says. Abigail smiles softly. “Our military was disabled when the bombs went off. I would like to ask, only for a short amount of time, that-” Niall raises his hand, and Abigail falls silent. “Of course, you know I take the lives of my army seriously. I can’t spare any ground forces, but if you can rally your soldiers you may have the Royal Airforce on your side. They will respect you as if I were commanding them myself. You have my word.” Niall says. Abigail jumps up and hugs him. “Thank you so much! I’ll repay the favor whenever I’m able, I promise.” She says. Niall shakes his head. “It’s fine, Europe owes you after you dealt with those Thule bastards back in the War. I hope we’re even?” He asks. Abigail nods. “Of course we are! Thank you again, Prime Minister!” She exclaims. Niall shakes his head. “Just Niall, for you. Friends help each other, right?” He asks. Abigail nods, and Lucy stands up. “We should get going, we need to warn our troops. If any of them are left.” She says. Abigail nods, turning towards the door. “Wait a moment, I need to ask a slight favor. There’s something in it for you as well.” Niall says. Abigail turns back to face him. “Oh? What’s up?” She asks. Niall hands her a small envelope, stamped with the Royal Family’s crest in wax. “Give this to President Mikhail, in Moscow. He should help you too, maybe grant you some of the Red Army.” He says with a sarcastic smirk. Abigail nods. “Yeah. Totally. I’ll pass it along, I needed to visit him as well, anyway.” She says. Niall nods. “And Abigail… be safe.” He says. Abigail smiles at him. “You too, Niall. See you later.” She says. Lucy follows her out of the room, gently closing the door behind them.

(J/K) American Beliefs-

Moscow, 2019-

“Now! Go!” Kane shouts, firing the pistol at the RRU Guards. Jack runs past him, fiddling with the keypad attached to the large, metal door. “Do not be fools, Subjects. Return to your cells if you do not want me to contact the Spetsnaz. I still have use of you, even dead.” Reznov says over the facility’s speakers. The bulkhead opens, and the lobby sprawls out before them. Several armed guards are waiting for them, tables overturned as makeshift cover. “Fuck my life,” Kane says. Jack smiles, holding his hand out. “Give me the gun. I’m trained for this.” He says. Kane shrugs, handing him the pistol. “Don’t get yourself killed, kid. I enjoy your company.” He adds. Jack chuckles. “You didn’t have much of a choice, man.” He says, rushing out behind a large pillar. Machinegun fire follows him, and Kane hides behind another pillar. Jack takes a deep breath and charges out from behind cover. Gunfire sprays out at him, and he slides across the floor, stopping behind the table. He fires at the guard, killing him instantly. Another guard aims his rifle at Jack, and Jack throws the empty pistol at him. The guard drops the rifle, and Jack grabs it. He slams the guard’s head onto the floor, and fires at the other guards behind other tables. “KANE!” He shouts over the gunfire, sliding the other guard’s rifle towards him. Kane grabs it and opens fire on the other guards. Jack crawls his way up to another table, checking the rounds in the rifle. Fully stocked. He jumps up, surprising the guards. He aims the rifle down and opens fire, blood spraying on Jack’s face. Kane joins him, firing at the final table. He keeps the guards in cover as Jack slowly walks over to them. Blood on his face, he aims his rifle at the last two guards. Click. No ammo. Jack throws the gun aside and grabs the first guard by the neck. “P-Please… spare me… American…” He begs. Jack grins and twists the guard's neck. The second guard opens fire at Jack, and he uses the first guard’s body as a shield. He charges at the second guard and grabs the first’s pistol. He opens fire on the second guard, who falls limp. Jack drops the body of the first guard and sits in silence for a moment as the alarms blare. Kane approaches him, examining the bodies of the guards. “Holy shit, man. You did that while NOT in kill mode… impressive. I’m glad I’m on your side.” He says. Jack nods, panting. “Let’s get the fuck out of here,” Jack says. Kane stops him, handing him a shirt taken from another subject. “Wipe your face off, don’t wanna look like a serial killer out there.” He says. Jack nods, taking the shirt. “Thanks.” He says. Kane nods and walks towards the door. “No guards outside, I think we made it…” He says. Jack joins him, opening the door to the blinding sun above them. A man stands behind them as they escape the building, his white lab coat blowing in the wind. “Sir, should we chase them?” One of the guards asks. Reznov shakes his head. “No. Let them run, this experiment has gotten interesting.” He says, turning around and heading back into the depths of the facility.

Jack and Kane emerge from the dark facility, finding themselves on the bustling streets of Moscow. People are chatting, and although neither of the Americans can understand them, they sound happy about something. “The fucks got the Ruskies so happy?” Kane asks. Jack looks around, finding a shop nearby showing the world news. “Kane… come here.” He says suddenly. Kane approaches, and the news shows a woman speaking Russian. The words ‘America’ and ‘Division 18’ are brought up. “What the fuck?” Kane asks. The woman suddenly leans out of frame, and whispering is heard. She returns and says something quickly. As soon as she finishes, Father Adam appears on the screen. Kane’s eyes widen. “Russell.” He says. Father Adam clears his throat. “Is this on? Am I live? Good. Hello, I am Father Russell Adam, of the Church of New Horizons. I am speaking on behalf of America. We are undergoing a slight change of command, and I am acting as President of The United States. President Scott was unfortunately taken out by the bombs. My bombs. I’m open to negotiating with Russia, China, and North Korea on new terms for previous accords.” He says. Kane backs away from the screen. “What the fuck… he did it?” he asks aloud. Jack turns to answer but stops. He spots a beautiful woman watching him from the crowd. Her blonde hair and blue eyes are unmistakable. “We need to go. Now.” Jack says, grabbing Kane by the arm and pulling him away. As they run, several unmarked vans surround the crowd. “Shit…” Kane mutters as the Spetsnaz pour out onto the street. The two Americans duck down to avoid eye contact, and slowly creep towards the nearest alleyway. “We need to find the US Ambassador’s office, they can help us…” Kane says. Jack nods, and the two rush away from the crowds. Azrael watches them from the rooftops, and she smirks. She spreads her wings and takes off to watch them from the sky.

(AH) Doomsday-

Hanover, 2019-

“Sir, we have reports of activity from the Church.” A soldier says. Alex nods, taking the tablet from him. “It says they’ve been seen traveling over the New York Wasteland in stolen planes. I think they’re preparing for war.” He finishes. Alex studies the map and hands it back to the soldier. “Good. Prepare the main unit for mobilization, we need to cut them off before they’re able to find the facility beneath the Empire State.” Alex says. The soldier looks back at him, puzzled. “What’s in there, Sir? Abigail never allowed us to know.” He asks. Alex smiles. “There’s a ship in there capable of puncturing dimensions. It’s how Omega was able to explore Hell, back in the day. Back on Mars, Division 18 stole the tech from Omega and built an airplane capable of doing the same thing, but while moving. If Adam gets his hands on that, the war is over.” He explains. The soldier nods. “Yes, Sir. I’ll get the troops ready for war.” He says. Alex smiles. “I know we’ll win, even if we lose. Father Adam hasn’t been blessed like I have.” He says. The soldier nods in agreement, though he seems confused. Alex just looks down at his hands, a strange emblem on the back of his right hand. An eye within an aperture, the iris gazing up at him. “I know I need to get that ship for you, Director. I will make sure of it.” He says to himself in a hushed whisper.

(FA) Opening Up-

New York Ruins, 2019-

Father Adam looks down at his bible. The photo of his wife and son gazes back at him, and a strange feeling of doubt swells up inside him. “Am I doing the right thing? Is this how I get justice?” He asks himself. He looks back out towards the ruins of New York City, the Empire State still standing tall. He sighs. He closes the bible and looks up at the sky. Since the bombs hit, the Earth has started to heal slightly. He can see the stars, twinkling and shining far away in space. He smiles, wiping a tear from his eye. “Fear not, Oliver. Fear not, Anne. For when my job is done, and God lays me to rest, I shall be with you. Even if only for a moment before I’m forced to be punished for my sins. I love you two.” He says with a shaky voice. “Russell.” A woman’s voice says. Father Adam turns around, and a pair of golden eyes glow at him from the darkness. “Ah, my Angel. How may I help you, Eris?” He asks. Eris approaches him, her silver hair reflecting the stars above her. Her halo somehow doesn’t emit real light, so it doesn’t blind Father Adam as she grows close. “The Director believes you’re losing your resolve. Is this true?” She asks. Father Adam takes a deep breath and sighs. “I can’t lie, I have been… thinking about what happened. What I did.” He says. Eris nods. “But you’re still sound in your faith?” She asks. Father Adam sits for a moment in silence and nods. “Yes, I am.” He says. Eris nods. She looks around and sighs. “Look, I’m not supposed to do this, but let’s have a chat.” She says, sitting down on a nearby bench. Father Adam looks at her, and she pats the bench beside her. “Sit.” She orders. Father Adam nods and sits down next to her. “I used to have little faith in my father, too. I know The Director isn’t your father, but it’s comparable. I didn’t trust in his plan until his plan came to be. I know how it feels. I think getting to know me will help settle your nerves. Ask me anything.” Eris says. Father Adam looks at her, studying her eyes. “Why do you follow someone who abuses you so harshly?” He asks. Eris’ heart sinks. “How did you know?” She asks. Father Adam smiles softly. “I’m a priest. I know a confessional when I see one, even with higher beings like you.” He says. Eris chuckles. “The Director… no. Xander abuses me when things don’t go his way. His plans, the people he forces me to keep an eye on. Anything that goes wrong, I get the worst of it.” She says. Father Adam looks her in the eyes, the golden iris gazing back into his. “Whatever you’ve gone through, know this. You are strong. Stronger than Xander. I know he has to have Angels accompany him, as one did when he gave me purpose. You’re stronger than him. Even if not physically, you are mentally. I trust you, and I hope you trust me. My faith is absolute.” He says. Eris smiles and stands up. She stretches her arms and back, and spreads her wings. “I have to get going. The Director will send Azrael, the other Angel, to get an update from you soon. Please… don’t speak of this.” Eris says, flying away. Father Adam nods and smiles. “I will keep my lips tight, dear Angel.” He says, looking back up at the stars.

(D18) Negotiations-

Moscow, 2019-

“Abigail Bright. And Lucy Daemon. I remember you both well.” The man says, a heavy Russian accent weighing down his words. Abigail looks at him with peaceful intent. “President Mikhail, please hear us out. We were sent here by Prime Minister Niall in order to-” Mikhail raises his hand. “Enough of him. Why are you here, really?” He asks. Abigail’s mouth locks shut. Lucy clears her throat. “We need your help. Niall gave us access to his Royal Air Force. We need some ground troops to help us reclaim America.” She explains. Mikhail laughs. “Why would I want to help you rebuild and reclaim America? I much prefer how Adam is running it!” He says. Abigail’s face grows red, and Lucy’s eyes glow a bright red. Abigail takes a deep breath. “You owe us.” She says firmly. Lucy glares at her, and Mikhail looks at her, curious. “Oh? Do we?” He asks. Abigail swallows her fear. “The Hayka. The space station where you sent the SW-01 you stole from us. We didn’t send anyone after it, so consider it a favor. Now we’re here to cash that in.” She says. Mikhail nods. “Interesting… you think I don’t know of the Agents sent up, captured by Vladimir Reznov and his RRU?” He asks. Abigail’s stern face drops. “W-What?” She asks. Mikhail starts to grin. “Oh yes, the police officer and the Omega scientist. I know of them, and how they’ve been Doctor Reznov’s most promising experiment…” He says. Abigail is furious.”We had a deal! After I dealt with the Thule for you… you were supposed to release any Division 18 prisoners!” She shouts. Mikhail shakes his head. “Yet you abandoned that deal when you sent up those Agents. Now, I could make you a counteroffer for my troops.” He says. Abigail looks at Lucy and sighs. “Sure. What do you want?” She asks. Mikhail smirks. “I can send you my troops in exchange for… well… three hours alone with you two.” He says, leaning back in his chair. Lucy glances up at Abigail, who’s just staring at the Russian President. “What the fuck?” She asks. Mikhail nods. “Yes. You. Me. and the Demon, for three hours. Whatever I want you two to do, you do. Non-negotiable.” He says. Lucy jumps up. “Go fuck yourself, you sick creep. Abigail, let’s go. We don’t need his army, and we don’t need to have some gross threesome with him for anything. Fuck him.” She exclaims. Abigail nods, shaking her head. “This discussion is over, President Mikhail.” She says, turning to leave. Mikhail laughs. “You sway your hips a lot when you walk, Miss Bright. I can imagine how they’ll sway without the pants…” He says. Abigail’s face contorts into something beyond anger, and Lucy turns to face him. The expression on his face is disgusting, and Lucy just sees red. She lunges at him, digging her fangs into the Russian’s neck. He screams in pain, and she rips his throat out. His blood sprays all over the ceiling, and Abigail’s mouth twists into a slight smile. Lucy climbs off of him and spits his blood back on his face. “That's the closest you’ll ever get to fucking either of us, you slimy sack of shit.” She says, walking back towards Abigail.

The two women run down the corridors of the President’s office, with armed guards firing at them from behind. “GOD, YOU’RE INCREDIBLE!” Abigail exclaims as they run. Lucy smiles at her, the blood on her face now dried. “YOU TOO! I LOVE YOU!” She shouts back. Abigail kicks open the back door of the building, scaring Arthur and Rev. “Fucking Hell!” Rev shouts, aiming his revolver at the guards. He opens fire, and Lucy quickly slams the door behind them as they exit. “What the fuck happened!?” Arthur shouts, loading his shotgun as they prepare the helicopter for takeoff. The Russian soldiers break down the door and open fire on the helicopter. “TAKE OFF, NOW!” Abigail shouts at the pilot. The aircraft slowly rises, and both Rev and Arthur return fire at the soldiers. “Fuck!” Arthur shouts, grasping onto his side. Blood pours from the wound, and he slides down to the floor of the helicopter. “Arthur! Rev, grab him!” Lucy shouts, and Rev attempts to lean down and grab him. Bullets cut him off, and Arthur is forced to let go. He falls a short distance, landing on the ground. “Fuck!” Abigail shouts. “We have to go back for him!” Lucy says. The pilot nods, but two Russian helicopters stop him. “Fuck it, we need to go!” Abigail shouts, and the pilot nods. He takes off in the opposite direction, and Lucy just stares at the spot where they left Arthur to die. Abigail grabs the radio from the center of the pilot’s dashboard and tunes it to the RAF’s frequency. “This is Abigail Bright. We’re beginning the reclamation of America!” She says. “Rodger, Ma’am!” A man replies, and Abigail nods. She puts the transceiver back and sighs. “Let’s fix this world, yeah?” She asks. Rev nods, and Lucy takes a deep breath. “We can try.” She says.

(J/K) Cold War Blues-

Moscow, 2019-

“Jack! Up there, look!” Kane shouts as they run down the alleyways. He points at a helicopter taking off in the distance, the Union Flag painted on the tail. Jack’s eyes light up in excitement. “Are we finally getting the fuck outta here?” He asks. Kane nods. “If we make it there, we are! Let’s go!” he says, rushing towards the building the helicopter left from. Kane rounds the corner to the building and is met with Spetnaz, guns aimed at him. “Shit! Wrong way!” He exclaims, jumping back behind the corner for cover as the soldiers open fire. Jack peeks around slowly, his eyes landing on a man lying on the concrete. His orange hair is covered in blood as the puddle forming around him grows larger. “Is that… what’s his name…” Jack says aloud to himself. Kane looks at the man, squinting at his face. “Arthur!?” He exclaims. He grabs the pistol from his pocket and opens fire. The Spetnaz back off to find cover, and Kane rounds the corner. “We have to help him!” He exclaims. Jack and Kane rush towards Arthur, firing at the soldiers behind cover. “Arthur! Arthur, wake up!” Kane shouts. Arthur’s eyelids slowly open, and he focuses on Kane. “Ah, Samuel Kane, right? Hey, where am I?” He asks. Jack fires at the soldiers some more, and Kane smirks. “Uh, we’re in Russia and… uh… fighting them?” He answers. Arthur’s eyes widen. “Shit, that’s right… Abigail, Lucy, and Rev got in the helicopter… I got shot…” He says, sitting up. “They left me to die.” He says. Jack glances down at him. “We know how it feels, but we need to get a move on! I’m almost out of ammo, and they’re not!” He shouts. Kane nods and helps Arthur to his feet. “Listen, I can patch you up when we get on the boat! Just hold out until then!” He says. Arthur nods and joins the other two as they run away from the Spetnaz chasing them. “Where are ye gonna get a boat?” Arthur asks as they rush towards the coast. Kane looks around, and Jack sighs. “Uh, we’re gonna steal one,” Kane answers. Arthur scoffs, and smirks. “Sounds like a good plan.” He says, chuckling to himself as they run.

(J/K/A) Oceanic-

International Waters, 2019-

“IN! IN! IN!” Kane shouts, helping a wounded Arthur over the edge of the small fishing boat. Jack dives in and shoots the rope tying the boat to the dock, and the small ship slowly makes its way away from the shore. The Spetznas open fire on it, and Jack returns fire with Arthur’s shotgun. “We’re getting out of here! Fucking finally!” Jack says, lying down on the boat’s floor. Kane smiles widely, the cool ocean air blowing on his face. The three men sit in silence, enjoying their victory as the boat races away from Russia. After a long while, Kane perks up. “Now, Jack, can we talk about Liz? You never got a chance to mourn or grieve. You doing okay?” He asks. Jack chuckles. “I never stopped thinking about her. I just think I… I don’t really care anymore.” He says. Arthur sits up. “Aye? That isn’t healthy, my man.” He replies. Jack nods. “I know, I just… I don’t feel anything anymore. Not since Reznov turned me into his weapon. I can’t… care enough to feel, I guess.” He says. Kane shares a worried glance with Arthur and takes a deep breath. “Here, Jack. Go to sleep, Arthur and I will keep an eye out for Russians. We’ll wake you up when we get to London.” He says. Jack nods and closes his eyes. Arthur looks down at his gunshot wound and smiles. “Stopped bleeding.” He says. Kane nods. “Good, I was hoping it would.” He replies. Jack suddenly sits up, his eyes alert. “Do you hear that?” He asks. Kane and Arthur sit in silence, and the quiet sound of a helicopter approaching overwhelms the waves. “Fuck… fuck!” Kane shouts, grabbing the nearest harpoon. The Russian helicopter soon crests the horizon, and Arthur watches it closely. “Hang on… FIRE!” he shouts, and Kane shoots the harpoon at the chopper. It narrowly dodges the harpoon and approaches the boat even faster. “Wait… what’s it doing?” Jack asks as the helicopter slowly hovers above them, lowering a ladder. Arthur and Jack look at the rope ladder skeptically, but Kane grabs on. “I’m gonna check it out, be right back.” He says, climbing the ladder. Arthur aims his shotgun at the top of the helicopter, and Kane crests the edge. “Hello?” He asks. A man turns around from the cockpit, and smirks. “Hello, Subject. I decided to help you out here, as would any good researcher when his subjects are in trouble.” Reznov replies. Kane attempts to crawl back down the ladder, but Reznov holds up a hand. “Wait. I do not wish to return you to Mikhail, or the Russian Government. I wish to help you return to America and witness what you two will do in its ashes. As a part of my experiment.” He says. Kane shakes his head. “What fucking test? What are you talking about?” He demands. Reznov chuckles. “Do not worry, it is above your pay grade, as you Americans say.” He says. Kane looks at him, his eyes scanning the mouth of the Russian, searching for some sign of deceit. He sighs. “Fine. Take us home.” He says, waving for Jack and Arthur to climb. Reznov smiles and prepares the helicopter to fly out to London.

(AH) Invasion!-

New York Ruins, 2019-

Sirens sound across New York’s dead skyline as planes swarm over the skies of the bombed-out city. “Sir, we’re being invaded!” A soldier shouts, and Alex grabs his binoculars to look at the incoming planes. “It’s the Church! Open fire!” He shouts, and the anti-air canons begin shooting at the incoming planes. They take evasive action, dodging the explosions. The planes continue onward, and the soldier looks at Alex confused. “Uh, Sir? They’re not fighting back…” He says. Alex nods. His radio sparks to life, and what seems to be a woman’s voice emerges from the static. “-Alexander Hawthorne- -Answer me!- -This is Abigail Bright!-” It says between bursts of static. The soldier reaches for the radio, but Alex grabs the pistol from his hip and shoots the machine. The soldier jumps back, looking at Alex with concern. “They’re trying to brainwash us, the same as they did with so many others. Disable your radios, and continue to open fire at those planes.” He says. The soldier nods, grabbing his radio. He speaks into it, and the planes suddenly open fire on the military base. “Fuck! I want those planes GONE! NOTHING SHALL HURT MY COUNTRY AGAIN!” Alex shouts, heading down into his watchtower’s basement.

This story has been unlawfully obtained without the author's consent. Report any appearances on Amazon.

(D18/AH) Reunion!-

New York Ruins, 2019-

Abigail storms towards the watchtower, and the soldiers around her salute as she rushes past. Lucy and Rev follow close behind as she kicks the door to Alex’s watchtower. “ALEXANDER HAWTHORNE! OPEN THE FUCKING DOOR OR I SWEAR TO GOD!” She screams as she kicks the metal door to Alex’s basement. He opens it up and smiles. “Ah, General Bright! I thought you had died!” He exclaims, climbing out of the bunker. She scowls at him as she pushes past him and grabs his walkie-talkie. She turns it on and raises it to her mouth in anger. “This is General Abigail Bright of Division 18, contacting all Royal Air Force members and all Division 18 Army soldiers. You are firing on your own men. Cease all friendly fire at once!” She exclaims, and over a minute or so all gunshots and explosions on the surface cease. “Alex, you’re lucky I don’t fucking execute you for treason, you arrogant son of a bitch!” She shouts, walking up close to him. She gets in his face. “You’re only the Commander, so don’t let the power get to your head! Since I let you join the team, you’ve been trying to usurp my power! Don’t think I haven’t noticed.” She says. Lucy walks over and grabs Abigail by the arm, slowly pulling her away from Alex. After a short distance, Abigail smacks Lucy’s hand off of her. She glares at the Demon and takes a deep breath. “What the fuck was that!? You don’t fucking drag me away from anything!” She screams. Lucy just glares at her. “Abigail.” She replies. Abigail ignores her and continues shouting. “I don’t care if we’re dating, I’m still your commanding officer! This asshole was trying to kill our only way of retaking America! And if he takes over, God help you! You’d be shot on sight!” She shouts at Lucy. Lucy, however, remains calm. She looks Abigail in the eyes. “Abigail.” She says again, to no avail. “Look, this is not some back and forth, I’m in charge and that’s that. You can kiss me, fuck me, do whatever to me when we’re not at fucking war, but guess what? We are! So you obey ME!” She shouts. Lucy’s eyes suddenly ignite a bright red, and black wings appear from the air behind her. “ABGAIL BRIGHT! YOU LISTEN TO ME, AND LISTEN GOOD! I’m stronger than you in EVERY regard! I’m faster, more nimble, and have years of combat experience! I love you more than you could possibly understand, but don’t think I won’t hesitate to hurt you! YOU DO NOT SHOUT AT ME UNDER ANY CIRCUMSTANCES UNLESS YOU WANT ME TO CRUSH YOUR PUNY HUMAN SOUL! BECAUSE THAT’S ALL YOU ARE! A WEAK, LITTLE HUMAN WITH A GIFT!” Lucy screams in Abigail’s face. Abigail’s eyes grow wet from tears, and she backs away. Lucy, still enraged, closes in on her. “You scream at me again, and I’ll ensure you never use those vocal cords again! I love your voice, but Lucifer as my witness, I can make do without it. This is your LAST FUCKING WARNING!” She shouts, and after a moment, she calms herself down. Abigail is petrified as Lucy takes a shaky breath. “So do NOT scream at me again. I love you, and I’ll treat you with kindness. But do NOT mistake my kindness for weakness, because I’m still a fucking Demon capable of ripping your throat out.” She says with a hoarse voice. Abigail nods. “S-Sorry…” She whispers. Lucy nods, opening the door for her. “Thank you. Now let’s go meet with Alex and Rev and figure out what to do about this lunatic and his cult.” She says, her dark wings vanishing in the wind. Abigail nods, following her inside the watchtower.

(J/K/A) War Torn-

New York Ruins, 2019-

Jack, Arthur, and Kane exit the helicopter, and Reznov smiles at them as he takes off. He flees towards the ruined city, and the trio slowly makes their way towards the nearest Division 18 output. “Heya boys! I’m Doctor Samuel Kane, a recent new hire and friend of Abigail Bright!” Kane says to the soldiers. They chamber a round in their rifles and approach the three men. “Hands on your heads, all of you!” One soldier shouts. Jack obeys, and Arthur puts his hands out in front of him. “Listen, lads, I’ve been shot in me shoulder, can I just put them out like this fer ya?” He asks. The soldier nods, handcuffing him. Another grabs Jack's hands and restrains them as well. “What the fuck are you guys doing!? We’re on the same side!” Kane exclaims as two soldiers force him to the ground. One of them restrains his hands and the other grins. “We’re taking you to General Hawthorne, he’ll know what to do with you guys for going AWOL.” He says. Jack looks up nervously. “We didn’t go AWOL! We were kidnapped by Russians!” He argues. The soldier laughs. “Save it for the judge, jury, and executioner!” He replies. Arthur glances worriedly at Kane, who groans. “Great, he made himself the General…” He says under his breath.

Book Of Revelation-

New York Ruins, 2019-

Father Adam sits alone in his small cabin on the outskirts of New York, staring at the fire he made in the fireplace. He takes a deep breath and clasps his hands together in prayer. “Heavenly Director, please bestow your presence upon me. I have questions on my path, what I shall do, and how to complete your divine mission.” He says aloud. He feels a presence join him in the dark room, and he stands up. He turns around, and a pair of familiar blue eyes glow at him from atop his bed. She’s lying on her stomach, and her wings are folded neatly behind her. Her golden halo shines above her head, and she’s biting her lip. “Be not afraid, Human. I mean you no harm unless harm is what you desire.” Azrael says seductively. Father Adam backs away from her. “I requested The Director. Not you.” He says. Azrael jumps off his bed, her wings spreading wide to help her keep her balance. “The Director sent me to help you. I am Azrael, I was there when you first joined The Director’s plan.” She says. Father Adam nods slowly. “I remember you. I need some help-” He’s cut off by Azrael getting incredibly close to him. “What do you desire? Something spiritual, akin to a wish? Or…” She trails off, grabbing his left hand. She presses it against her chest, forcing his fingers to squeeze her boob. “...Something more sinful?” She asks in a seductively low whisper. Father Adam jerks his hand away from her, holding it with his right hand as though he burned it. “No! I simply require guidance-” He’s cut off again by Azrael groaning. “Blowjob? Assjob? Not even a titjob would satisfy you? Maybe you need something more harsh. More… feral.” She says, quickly rushing behind him. She presses against his back, squishing her chest on his back. She rests her left hand against his cheek, and slowly reaches her right hand down to his belt. “We could fuck like rabbits if you so desire.” She whispers in his ear. Father Adam jolts forward, turning to face her. “ENOUGH! I desire guidance on what to do after Division 18 is taken out of the picture! I’ve done all you’ve asked so far, so give me more guidance!” He exclaims. Azrael starts to snicker, covering her mouth to stifle it. “You really destroyed America because… you thought we wanted you to? Seriously?” She asks. Father Adam stares at her, disbelief in his eyes. “You… didn’t want me… to destroy it?” He asks. Azrael nods. “Yeah, The Director was just being sarcastic. You… could not tell?” She asks. Father Adam looks down at his bible and sees the photo of Oliver peeking over the top at him. His eyes fill with tears, and Azrael shrugs. “Oh well, summon me again when you need more guidance.” She says, exiting through the front door. Father Adam opens the book, staring at the date inscribed on the page next to the photo. “W-Why? Why did they take you? Why did I do… this?” He asks. He looks at the fire and sighs. He starts to laugh, and he throws the bible into the flames. He laughs maniacally, breaking the cross above his bed and tossing it into the flames as well. He stops laughing, gazing at the flames engulfing the holy scripture. Oliver and Anna Adam stare at him, the flames closing in. “NO! NOT AGAIN!” He shouts, diving towards the fire. He snatches the photo of his family, waving it around to kill the flames latching onto it. “I… I need to find Abigail… I need to set this right…” He says frantically, rushing for the door.

The Gang’s All Here!-

New York Ruins, 2019-

Alex enters the prison cell, standing tall over three prisoners of war wearing sacks over their heads. A soldier approaches him, handing him a slip of paper. “These them?” Alex asks. The soldier nods. “Yes, Sir. They claim to know Doctor Bright, but we didn’t trust them after what you said about the brainwashing…” He says. Alex sighs, taking off the hood of the man in the middle. Jack Hollow glares up at him, his eyes burning with rage. Alex groans. “You fucking IDIOTS! Get Abigail in here, NOW!” He shouts, and the soldier hurries out of the door. He leans down and unties Jack and removes the cloth from his mouth. “I’m sorry about this, my troops thought you were CHurch Agents sent to brainwash them…” Alex says. Jack shakes his head. “Whatever, man. Just get us free so we can find Abigail and the others.” He says. Kane and Arthur join Jack in freedom, and Alex removes the gag from Kane’s mouth. “Jesus, man… couldn’t you have at least bought me dinner before we got kinky like this?” Kane asks. Arthur rolls his eyes. “Ye could’ve at least kept ‘em gagged, yeah?” He asks Alex, and Alex smirks. Abigail enters the room, followed closely by Rev and Lucy. Abigail hugs Arthur tightly. “Thank God you’re safe, I was so worried about you…” She says. Arthur hugs her back, smiling. “Nah, I was fine. Kane and Jack gave me a ride back stateside.” He says. Abigail lets him go, and Lucy shakes his hand. Abigail approaches Jack, hugging him as well. “I’m glad you’re back, too. I missed you.” She says. Jack smiles softly, but his eyes can’t hide the disdain in his heart. “Me too, being in Russia sucked ass.” He says. Kane glares at them and groans very loudly. “What? No love for me?” He asks. Lucy shoots him a thumbs up, and Abigail glares at him. Rev shrugs, and Alex approaches the group. “Listen, guys. I got word that the Church is inbound, and they’re going in for the kill. I hate to disrupt this lovely reunion, but we’re in a war…” He exclaims, handing the group some weapons. Abigail gets a strange look on her face, and Rev looks concerned. “What’s that face for?” He asks. Lucy sighs. “Russia might be coming back to kill us all.” She explains. Alex turns around, confused. “Why? America’s ashes, why would they bother coming here?” He asks in return. Abigail takes a deep breath. “Lucy and I maaaaaay have killed the Russian President…” She says quietly. Alex’s jaw drops, and Rev’s eyebrows raise slightly in disbelief. “You… killed the Russian President?” He asks. Lucy nods, and Rev laughs. “What the fuck… okay. Fine. Guess we’re at war with Russia now, too.” He says. A voice startles the group, and a shadowy figure emerges from the bunker’s entrance. “Indeed you are. It would seem as though you kicked the hornet’s nest, as you American pigs say.” Reznov says. Abigail’s eyes narrow, and Lucy’s iris starts to glow red. “Reznov,” Lucy says in a low tone. Jack and Kane slowly back away from him. “I require my subjects, as my tests have concluded.” He states. Abigail smirks. “Sorry, I may not like Kane that much, but he’s mine. Jack, too.” She says, stepping between them and Reznov. Doctor Reznov smiles. “I imagine you would think that, but perhaps Lucy and Rev have something to say about this?” He says. Abigail looks between the two he mentions, with Lucy and Rev sharing a worried and confused glance. “Activation phrase: Phoenix. 2. 26. 9. 100.” He says, and both Lucy and Rev’s eyes turn slightly yellow. Rev approaches Kane and Jack, while Abigail is approached by Lucy. “Lucy? Dear? What’s going on?” She asks. Lucy looks at her lover, a strange blank look on her face. “I… don’t know…” She says. Rev hands Jack a small revolver and looks towards Reznov for further orders. “Jack, shoot dear Abigail for me. Lucy, hold her tight.” He orders. Lucy grabs Abigail by the throat, her grip tightening around the Human’s neck. Jack looks between Abigail and Reznov, a terrified expression decorating his face. “Jackie, don’t do it, boyo!” Arthur shouts. Reznov chuckles. “Perhaps you need some motivation.” He says coldly. Abigail’s eyes widen, and Kane attempts to charge at Reznov. “Stop.” He orders, and Kane’s feet halt instantly. “Someone stop him!” Kane screams, and Reznov smiles. Arthur runs at Reznov, tackling him to the ground. “9! 12! 20! 37!” He shouts, and Jack releases a blood-chilling scream. He raises the revolver, aiming at Abigail. “Jack! NO!” Arthur shouts, diving towards him. Jack fires, and Arthur intercepts the bullet. His white shirt slowly turns red, and he falls to the ground. Abigail looks over at Kane, her face turning blue. “Numbers… reversed…” She gasps. Kane’s eyes widen, remembering the facility, and how Reznov calmed down Jack. “37, 20, 12, 9!” He exclaims, and Jack throws the gun to the ground. He cries out in pain and falls over. He stops screaming as he passes out, and Abigail looks into Lucy’s eyes. The yellow tint flickers for a moment, and Lucy drops Abigail. She rushes to Arthur’s side, pressing her ear up to his head. “I hear a breath… rattling and faint, but a breath…” She says happily, her voice tired from the strangulation. “Lucy, can you-” She’s cut off by Lucy’s boot impacting the side of her head. Abigail falls next to Arthur, and Lucy looks down at her. “Lucy… please…” She begs as the Demon lifts her by the neck again. She rips off Abigail’s amulet, throwing it to the ground next to her. Kane rushes her, but Lucy grabs him by the hair. She throws him across the room, and he slams into the wall. Lucy puts her other hand around Abigail’s neck, and Abigail gasps. “I… love… you…” She says weakly. Lucy has tears welling in her eyes, and she grimaces as Abigail stops fighting. “If… this is… it… I’m glad… it was… you…” She says, closing her eyes. A slight smile spreads across Abigail’s face. Lucy, now crying, glances over at Reznov. The yellow tint is overwhelmed by the red glow of her iris, and she drops Abigail. She charges Reznov like a bull, piercing his stomach with her horns. He gasps in pain, and Abigail screams in rage as she lifts him. She throws him against the wall using her head, and he slams into the nearby cement. Alex re-enters the room, aiming his gun at Reznov. “Get the medic, NOW!” Lucy screams, rushing over to Arthur. Alex checks on Abigail, who’s alive but unconscious. “...Yes, Ma’am!” He shouts, leaving. Arthur opens his eyes slightly, looking up at Lucy. “Ah, Beautiful Lucy. Sorry, you have to hear me annoying voice again…” He says quietly. Lucy kneels next to him. She smiles softly, tears running down her face. “No, it’s fine. I think I like it now, actually.” She says softly. Arthur smiles, blood coming from his mouth. “Yer only sayin that because I’m… dyin’...” He says. Lucy shakes her head. “Hey, I like it. I’ve just been jealous, I guess. I’m from Hell, and I get a basic American accent? Lame.” She says. Arthur nods while laughing quietly, grabbing Lucy’s hand. “That’s true. Did I do a good job?” He asks. “With Division 18… even though I let ya down in Russia…?” He asks, his voice growing weaker. Lucy nods, wiping some of the tears from her face. Arthur sighs, turning to look at the unconscious Jack. “Don’t blame the boyo, He’s not really ‘imself at the moment…” Arthur says, his breathing strained. Lucy looks to Jack, then back down at Arthur. “Don’t worry, Art. I don’t. You did a great job with getting them back. Thank you.” She says. She kisses Arthur’s forehead, and she looks him in the eyes. “Rest easy, Arthur Callahan.” She says quietly. Arthur closes his eyes. “Yes… Ma’am…” He says, and his breathing stops. Lucy leans back on her legs, sitting down next to the dead Scotsman. She looks around, all of her friends are unconscious except one. Rev approaches her, resting a hand on her shoulder. “I’m surprised he wanted to see you before he went… He always liked you, you know.” He says. Lucy looks up at him, smiling softly. “Let’s get these three to some beds, maybe they’ll wake up before the damn Church shows up.” She says, standing up. Rev nods, picking up Jack. Lucy walks over to Abigail, looking down at her. She kneels, grabs her amulet, and puts it back around Abigail’s neck. “Hang in there, dear.” She says quietly, picking up the unconscious woman.

Redemption?-

New York Ruins, 2019-

Abigail jolts up in the darkness, woken up from a bad dream. “Lucy!?” She calls out, to a deafening silence. She climbs out of bed, her throat still sore from the Demon’s claws. She opens the door to the main room of the bunker and finds Lucy and Rev sitting at the table. Rev’s cleaning his revolver, and Lucy is eating what appears to be a burger, but the ingredients are questionable at best. “Lucy? Whatcha eating?” Abigail asks, sitting down next to her. The Demon smiles. “It’s a burger, with some fries, lettuce, tomatoes, and a couple of slices of bacon. Some steak as well, and a tiny, microscopic amount of pork inside.” She says, taking a bite. Abigail watches the juice run down Lucy’s chin, and she sighs. “Thank God you’re good at cleaning yourself because holy shit that’s vile.” She says, standing up. Lucy shrugs. “I’m an active lady, gotta get a ton of protein and stuff.” She says, taking another bite. Rev clears his throat from across the table. “Finish your other bite before getting another mouthful, you’ll choke.” He says without looking up at her. Lucy nods. “Sorry…” She says, swallowing what she has in her mouth. Abigail takes a deep breath, and heads for the exit. “I’m going to take a shower, my body is sore and my head is killing me. I’ll be back.” She says. Lucy waves and Rev nods. She takes a deep breath, and Rev sighs. “What’s on your mind?” He asks. Lucy looks up at him, setting down her burger. “I just… I’ve been thinking about what Adam said. About his son and wife.” She explains. Rev looks up, curious. “What’d he say?” He asks. Lucy shrugs. “He claimed that Abigail killed a ton of her own men, and attempted to kill Adam himself, but failed and got his family instead.” She says. Rev sits up, leaning forward. “When? What year?” He demands. Lucy sits for a moment, recalling what Father Adam said. “2005, I believe.” She says. Rev sighs. “Then it’s true. When I worked for Omega, there was an unexplained assassination run back in ‘05.” He says. Suddenly, a loud knock on the steel bulkhead separating the group from the Wasteland makes both Lucy and Rev jump. “What the fuck?” Rev asks as Lucy slowly gets up. She grabs her knife, slowly approaching the bulkhead. She opens it, readying her blade to kill whatever waits for her on the other side. Rev aims his revolver, and the duo waits in anticipation. A figure emerges from the rain, his hair wet and covering his face, but Lucy can recognize the green eyes. “Adam! I should kill you just for being here!” She exclaims, but Father Adam raises his hands. “I am unarmed. I… I wish to come inside. I need to speak with you, Rev, and Abigail” He says. Lucy glares at him, and Rev looks confused. “Let him in, I guess. The gun stays on you, though.” Rev says. Father Adam nods, entering slowly. Lucy lowers her knife, and Rev pulls back the hammer on Ellie. “One move I don’t like, and bang.” He says. Father Adam nods, sitting down at the table. “What the fuck do you want? Lucy asks once he’s comfy. Father Adam takes a deep breath and sighs. “I’ve given up on being a preacher. I’m fucking done.” He says. Rev lowers the gun in shock, and Lucy leans forward. “What did you say?” She asks. Adam clears his throat. “I was acting out my beliefs, and an Angel came down and said… She said I misinterpreted her words. I was a fool, and I’m… I’m here asking for a chance to redeem myself. I know complete redemption is out of the picture, but I’d like to at least get set on that path before I die.” He says. Rev puts the gun down, and Lucy leans back. “Huh…” She says. Adam glances up at her. “Nothing to say?” He asks. Rev gets up and silently heads towards the kitchen. Lucy shakes her head. “No… just, wow. I’m sorry you were lied to. I… I’ll speak with Abigail about your chance of redemption.” She says, standing up. A woman clears her throat from the hallway behind them. “No need. I’m not helping him, and I’m insulted you’d even think I’d consider it.” Abigail says, walking into the meeting room. She has a green towel around her body, and her hair is still wet. Lucy looks at her in shock. “How could you? You ruined his life, set him on this path of destruction, and now decline his chance to change? No, not even change. He just wants to TRY to change.” Lucy argues. Abigail walks over, getting in Lucy’s face. “My decision is final. No.” She says, turning away. Lucy firmly sets her foot down on the cement, the footfall echoing around the room. “No, I refuse to accept that. I’m giving him a chance, whether you like it or not. You gave me a chance, and I’ve done worse.” She says. Abigail sighs and turns around. She glares at Adam and approaches Lucy. “What did I tell you before about arguing with me? I’m the boss. You’re stronger than me, but I OWN this company. This is NOT a fifty-fifty split.” She says. Lucy’s eyes start to glow, but Rev clears his throat. “Lucy, calm down. Abigail, just talk to the guy.” He says. Abigail turns to face him, but he whistles and looks down. His revolver sits in his hand, the hammer pulled back. “Either of you try anything I dislike, this gun can kill both of you. Easy.” He says, looking between Abigail and Lucy.

Ultimatum-

New York Ruins, 2019-

Abigail sits down in front of Adam, and she leans forward. “Why are you here?” She asks. Adam looks down at her chest, which is more than visible at her angle. “I… um…” He stammers, glancing over at Lucy for help. She sighs and tosses Abigail a shirt she found in a nearby chest. Abigail puts it on and repeats herself. “Why are you here, Russell Adam?” She demands. Adam leans forward and smiles. “I’ve made a mistake, and I’m here for atonement. I’ll happily go into custody when the time comes, but we need to fend off my Church. They won’t like that I’ve given up my role.” He says. Rev sits down next to Abigail. “How could they know?” He asks. Adam points at his green eyes. “It’s in the eyes. They’re a window to the soul, and they’d know I’m lying. Plus, The Director… God… wouldn’t like that. I’m here against his wishes.” He says. Abigail leans back in her chair, putting a hand up to her mouth in thought. “The Director? So, there’s a God, and you were truly visited by him? When?” She asks. Adam sighs. “Hawaii, you sent your WOLFS to execute us. I was shot in the side, and he stopped me from going to Heaven. Sent me on a ‘Divine’ mission. Which was bullshit.” He explains. Lucy walks over, resting a hand on Abigail’s shoulder. “He’s not lying. I’ve heard rumors of a Director down in Hell. Even Lucifer knew of him, and worked for him supposedly.” She says. Abigail nods. “Okay. I’ll play ball. How can you help us?” She asks. Adam smiles. “I know about your secret spaceship capable of piercing the Dimensional wall. We can escape this dying world, give us a chance to try again.” He says. Lucy closes her eyes and smiles softly. “Another chance at doing the right thing… heh.” She whispers to herself. Rev perks up. “Wait, we have that?” He asks. Abigail nods, looking down at the floor. “Yeah, we do. I may be your friend, but I’m also your boss. Some things are above your clearance. Sorry, I lied to you all.” She says. She turns her attention back to Adam. “So what’s your plan? Ride out this apocalypse you started just so you can flee to another Dimension?” She asks. Adam shakes his head. “No. I want to get out of here and serve my sentence in a proper prison. Somewhere not affected by this war-torn scorched Earth.” He says. Abigail takes a deep breath and sighs. “Fine. I’m getting Jack and Kane, and we’ll go to the ship and flee.” She says. Alex peeks around the corner, his eyes wide in fear. “The Director? How does he know… no. No. It can’t be…” He says, a twisted smile forming on his lips. “We’re nothing more than chess pieces… pawns in his game…” He says, snickering to himself. “All my life, I fought to get here… to the final standoff…” He says, cackling. He watches as the group leaves the building. “Checkmate, Abigail. I win.” He says, checking his pistol. One bullet left. He grins as he follows them to the strange spaceship’s location.

The Quantum Collapse-

The Ultimatum, 2019-

Adam, Abigail, Lucy, Rev, Kane, and Jack all enter the spaceship. The interior is built like a cargo plane, with a massive ramp acting as the only entrance to the ship. “What the fuck…” Rev mutters, looking around. Kane smiles. “I fucking knew it was real. Those Omega scouts know their stuff.” He says. Abigail looks over at Adam, who’s smiling to himself. “Whatcha smirking for?” She asks. Adam perks up, looking at her in surprise. “Oh, I’m smiling at this.” He says, handing Abigail a small piece of paper. A young boy and a woman smile up at her. “Who are they?” She asks. Adam swallows his anger. “Oliver and Anna Adam. My wife and son,” he says. Abigail feels a strange pain in her chest. In her heat. “I… Adam.” She says, looking up at him. He smiles back at her, even though he’s on the verge of tears, he still smiles. Warmth is the only emotion he’s showing. Abigail looks away, wiping the tear from her eye. “I’m so sorry… I didn’t know about them. I promise I didn’t. If I did, I wouldn’t have even thought of burning down… I’m sorry.” She says. Adam shakes his head. “I know. If you didn’t feel bad, you wouldn’t have offered me a second chance.” He says. Abigail looks over at Lucy, who’s currently examining the ship’s cockpit with Kane and Rev. “Can you forgive me?” She asks. Adam nods. “Of course I can. I’m a priest, even if I don’t believe in God anymore. I still feel as though forgiveness is a valuable part of Humanity.” He says. Abigail nods and glances over at Jack. He glares at her, putting his head down to sleep. “Do you have time for a confessional?” She asks. Adam nods and walks over to the entrance of the ship. Abigail follows, and Adam smiles at her. “What is the name of this ship?” He asks. Abigail looks at it and sighs. “The Ultimatum.” She says. Adam nods and clears his throat. “In the name of God, Ultimatum as by grounds, and the Angels as my witness, I shall not judge thee for thy sins. Speak your heart, and be forgiven.” He says. Abigail takes a shaky breath. “I… I think Jack hates me. I know why.” She says. Father Adam nods. “Why is that?” He asks. Abigail sighs. “Wolfrun, 2016. I offered him… No. I made him a part of my team without asking him. I got his girlfriend killed, I had his mind broken, and… I never even got to say I was sorry.” She says. Father Adam nods. “And how does that make you feel?” He asks. Abigail looks up the ramp at Lucy, who’s laughing with Rev. “Angry. It makes me angry, and I take it out on Lucy. I don’t mean to, but… I feel better afterward. I can always ask for forgiveness, and she’ll supply it.” She says. Father Adam sighs. “You know that isn’t healthy, Abigail.” He says. Abigail nods. “I know… I just don’t know how to deal with this.” She says. Father Adam opens his mouth, but someone cuts him off before he can speak. “Hey, can I come with you?” Alex asks, emerging from the darkness around the Ultimatum. Abigail looks over at Father Adam and nods. “Yeah, I suppose so. Follow me.” She says, heading up the ramp. Adam and Alex follow her into the ship, where Lucy looks at Alex confused. “I don’t mind you tagging along, but how are we going to fit ALL of your soldiers in here? It’s already kinda cramped as is…” She asks. Alex laughs. “No! Just us, they don’t matter. Only the main characters need to move on!” He exclaims. Adam raises an eyebrow, and Jack lifts his head. Rev approaches him, his hand slowly reaching for his revolver. “What do you mean, ‘Main Characters’?” He asks. Alex shrugs. “I dunno, but…” He trails off as Kane approaches from the cockpit. “Who says you get to decide who’s important, anyway?” He asks. Alex stiffens, standing tall. “The Director. We’re all actors in some story, and He’s writing it in real time. We’re the main characters, and he’s Directing us from off-stage!” Alex says. Adam’s eyes widen. “The Director! That’s who lied to me!” He says. Rev raises his gun, but Alex has him beaten. He has a gun aimed at Jack. “Woah, easy now, Alex…” Abigail says, stepping between him and Jack. Alex looks away, a shimmer of yellow in his eyes. “We can talk about this, you’re not too far gone. It’s okay, Lucy and Jack snapped before, too. They came back. You’ll be okay…” She says. Alex shakes his head, not lowering his gun. His other hand grabs his head in pain. “No! It won’t matter! He’s given me something good! Something worth fighting for! SOMETHING WORTH SURVIVING FOR!” He shouts, aiming the gun at Abigail instead. Abigail opens her mouth, but Adam rests a hand on her shoulder. “Let me talk to him, I can talk him down.” He says. Abigail nods, and Adam approaches the crazed gunman. “Alex, listen to me. I made a deal with The Director too, and he lied. He cheated me out of a spot in heaven, he made me do awful things to the country I fought for. I… I think he’s doing the same to you, too.” He says. Alex forms an inhuman smile and chuckles. “See, here’s the thing… I don’t have anything to lose… So, in short: I don’t care.” He says, aiming the gun at Adam. Lucy and Abigail cry out in shock as Alex pulls the trigger. Adam’s head flings back, blood spraying all over Jack. Adam falls to the floor, his face painted red by the blood pouring from his forehead. Abigail pushes Alex away, and Rev fires at him. He hits Alex in the knee, and the soldier drops to the floor. “GO! NOW!” Abigail shouts at Kane, who rushes towards the cockpit. The Ultimatum screams to life, and Abigail grabs Alex by the collar. She kicks his gun away, and he laughs. “Thought you wanted the enemy dead… but even in the end, he managed to brainwash you… all of you are traitors…” He says. Jack looks out the window as the ship takes off, and he notices the woman with silver hair and yellow eyes watching them. She smirks, and Jack looks back towards the others. “LUCY! REV! LOOK!” he exclaims, the two rushing towards the window. “What the fuck is THAT!?” Rev shouts, and Jack looks back. A small black spot seems to be floating where the woman stands, and the black dot suddenly starts to expand. “What the FUCK!?” Kane shouts, forcing the ship to take off. Lucy looks back at Kane and rushes over to help him take off. “Heh… you… r-really pissed… Him off… you’re all… FUCKED.” Alex says, coughing up blood. Abigail pulls him close. “What the fuck do you know about him? Tell me!” She shouts in his face. Alex just smirks. “Bite me, General.” He says. The black dot suddenly grows a strange axis across the center and begins warping the light around it. “A fucking BLACK HOLE!? HE CAN MAKE BLACK HOLES!?” Jack shouts, and Alex laughs. “You’re all… so… FUCKED. Heh… hahaha… HAHAHAHAHAHAHA!” He cackles, and Abigail shouts in rage. She throws him out of the back of the ship. Adam’s body slides out as well, and Abigail closes the ramp. She walks over and sits down next to Jack. “You okay?” He asks. Abigail sits in silence, nodding. She puts her head down, and the ship flies away from the black hole consuming the Earth around it. Lucy looks over at Kane, focusing on flying the ship away from the all-consuming void. “Guess we’re lucky this ship has its center of gravity, huh?” She asks. Kane nods. “Yeah, or we’d all be dead.” He says, pressing a button that lights up once they’re far enough off of the ground. A strange blue beam fires out of the front of the ship, and the sky before them seems to shatter like a mirror. A strange darkness rests behind it, and Kane shrugs. “Allons-y, as they say.” He says as they enter the Void.

Director’s Cut-

The Institute, ????-

“Sir,” Eris says coldly. The Director sighs, swiveling his chair around to face her. “Yes, Eris?” He asks. She storms over, getting in his face. “You never told me I’d have to drop a black hole in their timeline! I didn’t sign up for this!” She shouts. The Director’s eyes glow blue, and he slaps her. “Raise your voice again, and I swear to God…” He says. Death appears, her eyes ignited with lime-green flames. “Knock it off, both of you. Eris, go take a break.” She orders. Eris nods, wiping a tear from her eye. Death approaches The Director, leaning down on his desk. “You’re getting too hands-on. Abigail and Lucy know of you now. They’ll question everyone they meet. Both of your little henchmen are dead. Adam was shot by Alex, and Alex revealed you to them. Oh, yeah, almost forgot… HE’S DEAD TOO!” Death shouts. The Director stands up in anger and turns to face her. She towers over him, and he sighs. “I know, I fucked up. Don’t worry, I have something planned for them.” He says. Death groans. “And what would that be?” She asks. The Director smiles and sits back down. “Loki. I sent him to those Nazi fanatics, and they think he’s some ancient Thulian God. It’ll be entertaining, as well as hopefully something that gets rid of those little fuckers.” He says. Death shakes her head, walking towards the door. “Whatever, man. He didn’t kill them last time, I doubt he’d kill them now.” She says. The Director flips her off and laughs. “Hey, I’m a man who loves second chances.” He says to himself, watching the group navigate the Void. He leans back and smirks to himself. “Any second now, Azrael. Guide them into my trap…” He says. He watches as a blue beacon shines out across the Void, and the Ultimatum swerves towards it. “Checkmate.” The Director says, smiling to himself.