Destiny: Fates Revamped

[CrystalPrison]

Chapter 16

A week passed at Eli’s in relative peace in which Ryan let himself adjust to the newness of everything. It hadn’t taken long to adjust to the newness of seeing people and their partners, but it was still difficult to realize that he had them. Now that he knew, he couldn’t use his powers in good conscience; he couldn’t go through life as he’d gotten used to.

Once they’d decided they were going to stay the training had begun immediately, because Ryan wasn’t the only one who wanted to master his powers. Now that Leah knew her mother was safe back in Albion, she’d joined him in working to harness her powers. She’d been like him, she’d shoved aside the oddities that came with her powers and had worked around them, assuming they were nothing. It was new to the both of them to actually use them, and work with them.

They weren’t the only ones who spent long, hard hours working with the people that had already been at Eli’s, and the others that had accompanied them there, though. Chantal had set to mastering the powers which hadn’t surfaced long before Paris, and which she was afraid to use because of the destruction.

But just because they were the newest members involved, didn’t mean they were the only ones who spent time practicing. Ryan had seen Ford working to fine-tune his powers on several occasions in the past week, and Tanner could often be found trying to do the same.

They all had their limits though, the weaknesses it took more effort to surpass. Leah could project the emotions she wanted to, but they still affected her as well. Tanner was still afraid of the damage his powers could cause, he’d yet to hit his limit because he didn’t trust himself enough to reach it.

And as for Ryan, he couldn’t use his powers in too wide of a range, or on too many people before they started hurting him back. He’d been told it would be easier to handle once he’d found his partner, but until then, overuse of his abilities burned at the teenager. The same was true if he practiced for too long, and no matter what he did, he’d yet to surpass it.

The crippling pain that filled him when he hit his limit and tried to push past it was the reason he wasn’t training now. Even physical training when he’d passed his limit was difficult and painful and he’d been all but ordered to take it easy.

But just sitting around watching the others work wasn’t Ryan’s style, and it probably never would be. Instead, he’d found a quiet table in the library had put together, and he’d secluded himself with the files Slater had sent over in the past week. It hadn’t taken long to read through them, to work through the grotesque horrors that were found in Project Hercules.

Project Hercules, which as Ran had said, was designed to study the Ascendants years and years ago. The Project was the reason the Midnighters hated humans and felt they were superior. It was also the reason they worked to capture Ascendants they found dangerous, because it would keep humans from discovering them. It would prevent another attack on their kind from happening.

But that was about the end of where Ryan could see sense in what the Midnighters did. The rest was fueled by the need for revenge from what had happened to them, as far as he could see. They had to get rid of threats to their cause, no matter what it took, but they also couldn’t risk killing every Ascendant who opposed them. That was where the torture and hypnotism came in, because it was the most viable option if someone couldn’t be convinced.

Flipping to another page in the file, Ryan blew out a sigh and wished the Project had never happened, for another reason. They officials that had run it were the ones who had initial created power-dampeners to keep their prisoners under control. They’d been the ones who had discovered how to kill one partner without destroying the other.

The Midnighters had just taken the technology used against them, and made it better. They’d fine-tuned it, made it better and longer lasting, and then they’d turned it on others. They’d found people like Rebecca to enhance their technology and to cripple others.

Biting his lip in frustration, Ryan flipped the page again, scanning the information with a sigh. Arthur St. Germain, Thomas Walsh, Carter Samson; the three founders of the Midnighters had all been recorded as survivors of Project Hercules. They’d led the revolt, been hailed as leaders, and they’d been respected enough to form the Midnight Sun and Morning Star organizations.

More were recorded than just them, though, and Ryan frowned darkly as he read. Simon Wyre had been captured, and he’d had his partner killed as well. Like the others, his powers had rendered him ageless, because they allowed him to stop time. The man was just like the others in that he would live until he was murdered.

Other Ascendants had survived, though few had made it out without their partners. Animals and humans alike had formed a new life under St. Germain’s leadership. Though now most were dead now, it didn’t change what had happened. Some had escaped, but hundreds of others had died before the revolt.

“There you are!” The familiar sound of Leah’s voice made Ryan look up. “What’re you doing holed up in here?”

“Reading,” He answered, returning his attention to the files before him. “I’m trying to make all this make sense.”

Leah picked up a page with two fingers and set it down with a shake of her head, “I don’t know how you can get through all of this.” She stated, “It’s all government jargon and it’s not like there’s a point to it.”

Ryan snorted, “Sure there is. The Midnighters are the ones who experienced this, it’s why they’re doing what they’re doing. Besides, you know Slater’s trying to get clearance for us to show ourselves soon. What if we get this, but on a larger scale?”

Leah shuddered faintly and frowned in response, “That’s depressing.”

“I can make it worse,” Ryan muttered, “All this was confidential, only the old director had clearance for it.”

“So?”

“So, because he decided not to tell anyone else, they had nothing to go off of. Some of this stuff, the reactions Carson had, they could have predicted it. All these people, the more in depth files had to have someone similar to him. They would’ve known about partners too, they could’ve tried to find his.”

Leah swore, voice loud enough that several others in the library looked up. “What? Why did they-? How did nobody notice?”

“Slater probably realized it,” Ryan mused, “Ten bucks said one of the Gabes did, and told the other. Gou might’ve, or maybe Eli did. But even knowing it, we can’t change much. The old director is dead, probably because of the Midnighters, and we can’t fix anything from the past.”

“But-”

“I know,” Ryan sighed and carded a hand through his hair. “Trust me, I know. Carson’s hurting because of what they did. And the government’s to blame for more than just that, according to the rest of these.”

“Of course they are,” Leah leaned over Ryan’s shoulders and looked towards the file. “Care to explain why, though?”

“The DAA, back when they were designed to kill us all. They blackmailed his mom to try and get to Walsh, they made her come to the States.” He sighed softly, “From there they probably would’ve used him to get to the other founders, the organization would have fallen. Except something went wrong, and his mother was killed.” He traced the words outlining the scenario with one finger as he spoke. “She’d hidden Carson away, where he was safe, and he was found by humans later on.”

“Well that gives Walsh two more good reasons to be as he is,” Leah muttered. “That had to be-”

“Horrible,” Ryan agreed, “Probably twisted him up really well. Made him the guy who worked on some experiments from the warehouse raid that tried to eat us. Probably helped numb him enough to work on the cyborgs,” He flipped through files until he found Walsh’s. “I wish I could say there was hope, but he and the others, they’re just so twisted. They won’t change.”

Leah hummed, but didn’t move from her position and Ryan couldn’t make himself mind her presence. “It’s a shame the twisted ones with a good excuse had to find the truly evil,” She stated. “And there’s the coercion.”

“And the hypnosis and the torture,” Ryan muttered in addition. “Makes you really appreciate this place.”

Leah nodded and reached over Ryan’s shoulders to skim through the files, “They got anyone else interesting? Maybe that pyrokinetic that attacked me and the others?”

“Nope,” Ryan shook his head with a sigh, “Becca and Maria are still working on informing Slater about all the newer members they know of from their captures. Since the old DAA changed, they stopped gathering information our kind. It changed eight years ago, that’s a lot of time for people to join, and others to die. The info we’ve got is outdated, at best.”

Leah huffed, “Well why the hell did they stop?”

“Doesn’t say,” Ryan shrugged, “But probably because it’d be hazardous to their agents. It’d be one thing to go in with the intent to kill, you don’t care if your spies are found. But tranq guns don’t always work on us; it would’ve been too dangerous. And I doubt a lot of us are begging to join the FBI, and have indicators of our powers, so not many were available for that kind of work.”

“Details,” Leah scowled, “All that work they did, completely ignored because the government is stupid. The damn Midnighters have all their technology, and have made it better, poor Eli’s been forced to hide so many people in the stinking mountains, and they’re chilling at their desks, sipping coffee.”

“Well they aren’t now,” Ryan smirked softly at the thought. “Slater’s whipping them into shape, I’m sure. Paperwork and more paperwork, and he’ll probably send out agents to look for more of us. He won’t let people suffer longer than they have to.”

Leah nodded, and Ryan knew she was pleased at the thought of it, “And that makes the rest of our jobs easier. All we have to do is work to bring down the Midnighters, get the others back-”

“And remerge the Gabes,” Ryan concluded, “All in a day’s work.”

“Can’t we just kill Id?” Leah asked, “It would be so much easier, if you ignore that whole healing ability.”


“Nope. Gabe and Gabriel kinda need him to be whole again.”

“Why?” Leah settled in the chair next to him and scowled. “Not like they need an evil third slowing them down.”

“He’s not evil,” Ryan shook his head, “It’s the sad, sad truth, but he’s not.”

“So what, he’s just a highly irrational, impulsive, greedy jerk who spends his life making others miserable and enjoys it?”

“More or less,” Leah stared blankly at him. “Don’t gimme that look! Gabriel said he based the split of some Freudian theory from when he was a psych major. I figured I may as well look it up. Gotta do something every time I get kicked out of training.”


“Alright then, oh mighty Ryan, with the flaming red hair, who happens to be a flamer,” Leah’s tone was rich with amusement. “Teach me all you have learned.”

“You’ve heard the angel-devil explanation, right?” Leah nodded, “Well according to the books I bummed off of Brandon and Aileen and Carl, that’s only half right. Mostly because the Super Ego, that’s Gabe, and Id, aren’t good and evil, exactly. The fact Gabriel kinda balances them out is closer, though.”

“Of course,” Leah rolled her eyes, “Keep talking.”

“Id isn’t evil, he just seeks comfort and pleasure and things like that; he avoids pain and wants satisfaction. He doesn’t know judgment the way you and I do, he’s more instinctive and he’s impulsive. But he’s also still got aspects of his whole self.”

“Tanya?” Leah guessed, and Ryan nodded, glad she’d heard that entire story. “He still wanted her alive and safe, he just has different ways of accomplishing it, doesn’t he?” Ryan nodded again, “I guess to some the Midnighters would seem like a good way of doing that.”

“They’d keep her safe, in exchange for their powers. You’ve heard it all, if Id has control when they merge, they get his powers. Boom, they get a reality warper, he keeps his baby sister safe. They both win, and sure the rest of us lose, but I don’t think he cares much.”

Leah huffed and leaned back against her chair, “That is so not right. So what happens, if Id wins the body we’re all forgotten about?”

“I don’t know,” Ryan confessed, “But I don’t think so, really. If Tanya mattered enough to Gabriel when he was whole that all three of them care for her still, it might work in reverse.”

“And lucky us, Id won’t have any Midnighter he cares for?” Leah smirked softly at the thought, “It’d make us pretty damn lucky.”

Ryan shrugged, “There’s always the chance that there’s someone. But that’s also implying he still cares and feels the way other people do. There’s just way too much theory to go around here, and nothing to find facts in.”

Leah’s face fell and her eyes flashed with harsh irritation, “Seriously? You’re useless to me Ry.”

“You love me,” He answered confidently. “Besides, at least it’s something. I’d talk to Gabe and Gabriel about it, but something tells me they’re as clueless as I am.” He shrugged and turned his attention to the books and papers spread across his table. “I don’t think it matters much, anyways.”

“Of course you don’t,” She scoffed but a faint smile formed on her features. “Well entertain me anyways. Why don’t you think he feels like a normal person anymore?”

“Because there’s no Ego or Super Ego to balance him out; Gabe and Gabriel would be the same, except we care less because we like them. The info I’ve got is kinda sketchy, but the way I see it, things are different when the three are together. The Super Ego is the conscience, Gabe and Id contradict each other completely, without each other they’re completely unbalanced.”

“But Gabe and Gabriel are fine,” Leah pointed out. “They’re not going crazy or acting completely insane. They’re not as bad as Id, you can’t even tell.”

“But that’s ignoring the things that make them each third of the conscious mind,” Ryan pointed out. “Think about it, Gabe could easily kill with his powers, but I doubt he’s ever killed anyone. Barcello was talking about his sister and Wynne, but all Gabe did was break his nose.”

“Oh.”

“Yeah, ‘oh’,” Ryan agreed. “Then you think about Gabriel, he’s good, becaue he fights for what he thinks is right. He sides with Gabe on that. But he’s also got a temper, I mean, do you remember how he was around Roselinda? That kind of anger is boundless,” He pointed out. “And when he’s angry, does he really have limits?”

“Now that you mention it,” Leah shook her head slightly. “That kind of makes sense. When did you start making sense?”

“Sometime after Id blew up the mall,” Ryan answered without missing a beat. “I try not to keep track of it, it just happens. The way I see it, is with Ford and Wolf around, Gou and I need to keep some sense.”

Leah laughed at that, “You’re an idiot.”

“And yet, you love me,” Ryan repeated confidently. “Not that you have a say in the matter, because, you know, I can friendship you to death.”

Leah snickered at that, “Yeah, sure you can. Except for the fact that if the others find out, they’ll kill you, that would be bad. So you’re not allowed to do that,” She smirked teasingly at him.

“There’s no guarantee they’ll find out,” Ryan protested.

“Yes, who could find out, what with Gabe being a telepath, and Slater’s hunches, and I’m sure there’s a lie detector or six around here,” Leah trailed off with a soft laugh. “C’mon, let’s get going.”

“And where are we going? I don’t know if you forgot but-”

“You won’t be working, idiot,” Leah rolled her eyes. “But it’s almost lunch time. And you’ll make a great moving target. Just because you can’t use your powers or fight doesn’t mean you can’t be useful today.
 

[CrystalPrison]

Chapter 17

“C’mon, Mags, move faster,” The call came from Eddy while Phil, his partner and the man who’d spoken to Ryan that first morning, threw blow after blow at Ryan. The teen was barely able to dodge or block them, and fighting back seemed impossible.

They’d taken up this habit every day for the past two and a half weeks; Phil and his friends would teach Ryan what they knew, and then Gouken would come in and offer his own input. It was a strenuous schedule for the teenager, but a good one: he was learning quickly.

“Fight back, kiddo,” Phil urged as Ryan ducked yet another blow. “The Midnighters won’t give you a chance; with their powers you’d be dead already.” A knee caught Ryan in the gut, followed by a sweep of Phil’s arm, and the next thing Ryan knew he was flying through the air.

He wound up on his back, coughing violently, “I give, I give. No more!” He choked out as he pushed himself up. “You’re brutal, Phil.”

“Your little friend, Gouken, could be worse,” The elder man pointed out. “You should be very happy he’s nice to you.”

Ryan smirked, knowing that Phil had no idea what Gouken’s powers were, or just how bad the elder man really could be. The fact Gouken would never use his destructive powers on a person -except maybe Takashi- didn’t really matter much to most. “Yeah, trust me, I know.” He agreed, rubbing his torso lightly, “But I think I’m done for the day.”

“Really?” Eddy frowned as he padded over, “But it’s only seven, you’re not nearly done yet.”

“I am today,” The teen countered. “If you keep beating me up like you have been, the Midnighters won’t have any work to do.”

In response, Phil hit Ryan on the back of the head, just hard enough to hurt, “Wrong attitude, Mags.”

“Do you have to call me that?” Ryan demanded, rubbing the back of his head. “I mean, really?” The nickname had started on the first day, when Phil had asked what Ryan’s power was. He’d played around with names referring to the fact Ryan had spied on them on his first day, but in the end, ‘Mags’, short for Magnet had won out.

“Yes, yes he does,” Eddy commented with a laugh. “Just be happy the name hasn’t stuck with anyone else.”

“Trust me, I am,” Ryan agreed, “And I’m hoping it stays that way.” He paused and ran a hand through his hair, before moving to grab his pistol and jacket. “But either way, I’ve gotta head out, I’ll see you guys tomorrow.”

Without waiting for a response, the teen lifted his hand in farewell and exited the training arena. He knew it was time for breakfast, and he was hoping that today they’d have a set plan in mind, that they’d be able to take action soon. For the past few days the elders had debated on what to do, while Ryan and the other teenagers had put in their best input.

He knew Gabe and Gabriel had stayed behind last night, trying to work out a plan with Eli while the others had slept. They refused to move without a plan and more importantly, they refused to risk losing another member of their party. Ryan thought it would probably break them to face another loss, so he didn’t blame them.

Shaking his head to clear it of depressing thoughts, he entered the cafeteria. It was set up much like a school cafeteria, with one long counter people could choose their food from and about forty long tables were available to eat at.

Though not as convenient as the kitchenette, the food here was far better and more importantly, it was precooked. As such, Ryan wasted no time in heaping scrambled eggs, bacon and toast onto his plate, and happily grabbed a cup of coffee, holding his fork between his teeth.

Scanning the room, he found Chantal and Wolfrik sitting with Leah. Davin and Elijah were sitting nearby, talking while they ate, and Ryan quickly headed over to where they were sitting and dropped into an empty seat next to Leah.

He grinned, seeing that Wolfrik had four empty plates stacked up and was working on a fifth. Chantal and Leah were both eating more normal portions, talking about something while Wolfrik devoured his meal.

“Hey Ry, what’s up?” Leah greeted, while Chantal smiled slightly in greeting. “You’re actually on time today.”

“Oh shush you,” He scolded, quickly digging into his food. “Just because I’m always late doesn’t mean you can pick on me. And I’ve got good reasons, at least I’m practicing.”

“Yeah, because the rest of us never practice,” Leah answered dully. “Just because you’ve found more friends than the rest of us have and gotten more help.” She trailed off and stuck out her tongue at him.

Ryan held up his hands defensively, “Hey now, I’ve been practicing with my powers too!” He protested, “It’s just not half as easy as learning how to punch something.”

“I think he’s lying,” Wolfrik commented, “How hard can it be to be friendly?”

Ryan looked over to Jean, who’d just walked in and absently thought it could be very difficult, depending on the occasion. Instead, he just shrugged, “Being friendly won’t be very effective, all the time, you know. I’ve gotta learn how to force them to like me, no matter what.”

“I think that’s what Leah’s for,” Chantal smiled fondly. “They make a good team, you know.”

“We’re like the wonder twins,” Leah agreed.

“Does that mean Ry’s gunna get a bird too?” Elijah asked, flying over to perch on Leah’s shoulder. “I kinda like being the only bird.”

“Don’t you want someone who can fly with you?” Davin asked, and Ryan smiled. It had taken him the rest of the first week to begin speaking, something Ran had assured them was normal. It depended on the circumstances, and could take anywhere from a week to a month for a partner to begin speaking after making first contact with its’ partner.

“Nope,” Elijah insisted. “I fly solo.”

Ryan shook his head, “I don’t think I’m much of a bird person, no offense.” He shrugged, “I’m kinda hoping it’ll be something a little sturdier.”

“What’s that supposed to mean!” The parrot protested, shooting Ryan the evil eye. “I can turn into steel, I’m perfectly sturdy!”

Ryan merely flashed the bird a grin and focused on his food while the girls laughed. Wolfrik grinned as well, “Maybe you’ll be awesome like me and get parasites. You can’t get much sturdier than regeneration.”

Ryan smiled and swallowed his eggs, “Kinda meant more of a working animal. A throwback to my past, maybe; someone who could make it in the mountains or on a massive farm. Maybe an Australian sheepdog, they’re pretty awesome.”

“Dogs are overrated,” Davin piped up.

“Not when they bite you, you know,” Kia stated, baring teeth playfully at the marten as she approached. “Watch what you say and where you say it.”

“The parasites will bite you back,” Wolfrik protested with a grin. “It’s fair turn about.”

“Behave, Kia,” Ford ordered with roll of his eyes as he approached with a plate laden with food. “Gouken doesn’t need to waste his time healing you all if you get into a massive fight.”

“And I don’t wanna put up with his complaints,” Kosei added, and Ryan looked up to see Gouken approaching with Gina, while Ford dropped into the seat on Ryan’s free side. He smirked a little at the sight of Gouken’s arm around the woman’s shoulder, and was glad to see they both looked happy. Maria, Kenny and Rebecca were walking over from the food line, and Ryan lifted a hand in greeting.

“Where’s Tanner?” He asked after a moment, he, Gabe and Gabriel –along with their partners- were the only ones absent.

“Cooking,” Maria answered as she slid into her seat. “Eli’s chefs are going to miss him a lot. If he ever needs a job, he’s got one here.”

“No way,” Wolfrik protested, “He’s gunna be my personal chef! My parents are loaded; they’ll pay him better than Eli ever could.”

“Yeah, but here he won’t have to cook all day, but you’ll make him a slave,” Kenny pointed out.

Leah rolled her eyes, “Are they really going to fight over who gets Tanner’s skills? I mean, really?”

“You can’t tell me you’re still shocked by them,” Ford laughed. “You’ve gotta be used to this.”

“I am, I am. But sometimes they worry me.”

“That’s probably a good thing, Fordo,” Ryan pointed out, “I mean, considering the things we get into, so long as she thinks they’re normal enough we should be happy.”

Ford shrugged, but before he could answer, Gabe’s voice sounded in Ryan –and he assumed- everyone else’s’ mind. “We think we’ve got a plan, meet in Gabriel’s room in forty five minutes. Be ready to move out.’

“Oh goody,” Kenny grinned, “Looks like we’ll be getting some action. S’about time, I never got to take out that bitch Alexis. It’s time to fight.”

“That’s not necessarily a good thing,” Gouken pointed out. “Don’t look so happy about it.”

“It’ll put us one step closer to getting James back,” Maria pointed out.

“Not to mention Kris and Carson and Norman,” Rebecca threw in. “Even if it isn’t a good thing, the end will justify the means.” She frowned deeply, “I –sorry, we- hate that mentality, but it’s the truth.”

“Understandable,” Kia commented, while Ford rest his chin on interlinked fingers and looked contemplative. “I don’t think many of us like the thought of fighting to kill, but we might have to, to avoid capture, or worse.”

Ryan sighed deeply; suddenly glad he’d eaten some before the news, as his appetite was nearly gone. Discussing possible capture or death was the quickest way to destroy his appreciation for anything, even Tanner’s cooking.

Frowning slightly, he looked to Wolfrik, “You want the rest of my food? I think I’m going to head to my room and pack.”

Wolfrik reached for the plate, but Ford shoved it back towards Ryan without missing a beat. “Take the toast, at least. We don’t need you passing out if this leads to work or fighting.”

Ryan saluted him, taking the toast with his free hand, “Aye, aye, cap’n. May I go now, please?”

Ford reached out to smack him lightly across his head, “Watch it, I’ll send you flying. But yeah, get out of here.”

Sticking out his tongue, Ryan waved goodbye to the others and headed towards the door. He nibbled lightly on the toast as he went, amused at Ford’s insistence. He was sure there was no danger he’d faint from hunger. Of course, the elder man had looked distracted, and Ryan was certain that had something to do with it.

The food was gone by the time he’d reached his room, and he absently brushed the crumbs off on his pants. Bending down, Ryan tugged the suitcase Gina had made for him out from under his bed, and turned his attention to the dresser, which had been filled with clothes Gina had created. She’d done the same for everyone as it was cheaper and more convenient than buying clothes.

It didn’t take long to load the suitcase, and when he was done he picked up his phone, which he’d left on his dresser. Everyone knew where he spent his mornings, and if he was truly needed, Gabe could easily contact him which made the phone a relatively unnecessary prop here.

There was one new message, and he frowned when he realized it was from David. He groaned, knowing he didn’t need the stress that came from lying to his friends, but he dialed the number anyways. He missed his past too much to resist the temptation.

“Finally! C’mon Ry, where were you earlier? I know you don’t sleep late, and it’s already eight thirty. What, did you forget to charge your phone or something?” David’s words were quick and warm and the familiarity made him ache for home. “And what the hell are you still doing in Florida?”

“I’m with-”

“Like hell you are, I called him and I know you’re not there. I swear to God, Ry, if you’re in any kind of trouble-”

“I’m not, I’m not,” Ryan tried to reassure him, fighting to keep his calm. “But Kyle agreed to cover for me, and I needed it. I just had to get away, I needed some time to myself.”

“Well when are you coming back? I’m in Aurora right now-got in last night- and I want to see you, dammit! So get your scrawny, pale, ginger ass to Illinois right now.”

“We’ll see, David, we’ll see,” Ryan murmured tiredly, running a hand through his hair. He began gathering his toiletries with a long sigh, “As it is, it’s iffy. I might get back in time, how long are you in town?”

“A week, and if I don’t see you by the time I leave, I’m going to be pissed. Got it?”

Ryan zipped the suitcase and moved it towards the door, “I got’cha, I’ll do what I can.” He thought the odds of returning to Chicago or anywhere near there were slim, unless the goal involved trying to sway Clark. “But I’m busy, Davey, and I don’t have much time, and no, I’m not gunna explain.”

“Alright, I guess I’ll let you go then,” David sighed as Ryan ducked into the hallway. “But do me a favor and at least try and keep in touch? You haven’t called in like three weeks.”

“I’ll do what I can,” Ryan repeated. “It’s just tough, you know?” He paused, “I miss you, though, man. You know that, right?”

“Love you too,” David murmured, and Ryan shook his head bitterly, snapping the phone shut. Keeping a double life was difficult, and he was immensely grateful he didn’t have to do it in person.

“Are you alright?”

Ryan jumped at the sound of Diane’s voice, “Way to scare a guy.” He muttered, “What’re you doing out here?”

“Walking,” Zoe chimed in from her spot on Diane’s shoulder, “What’re you doing?”

“On my way to Gabriel’s looks like we might be moving out soon.” The girl pouted in response and Ryan smiled, “Oh don’t worry, it’ll be fine, you know that. We try to stay out of trouble.”

“But trouble likes to find our people,” She pointed out. “And your group generally attracts it.”

Ryan chuckled, patting the girl’s head lightly, “Oh, hush you. Everything’s going to be just fine. You’ll see.” He paused and looked her over, “You’re too young to worry this much.”

“Says you,” Zoe piped up. “We’re plenty old enough.”

“No you’re not,” Rebecca’s voice sounded from in front of them, and Ryan looked up to see her leaning against the wall. “Give it a few more years.” Her gaze flickered to Ryan, “We’re both early, but ten bucks says we’re not the first ones there.”

“But of course,” He smiled warmly at her. “Diane, dear, go relax. If we wind up leaving, I’ll try and find you before we do. And stop worrying, go enjoy your childhood, harass Phil or something.”

She giggled and scampered off, leaving Ryan and Rebecca alone. “She’ll understand some day,” The girl commented after a moment.

“All kids want to grow up; it’s a fact of life. At least she’s got an idea of what’ll happen to her when she does,” Ryan shrugged as they continued walking to Gabriel’s room. “It could be worse.”

She smacked him on the back of the head and Becky spoke, “We’re not going to talk about worse.” Ryan instantly fell silent, he knew Becky could seriously hurt him. “Good boy, you’re learning. Now if only the others would.”

Ryan shook his head slightly, “Thanks?”

“It’s a compliment,” She reassured him, pushing open the door to Gabriel’s room. As Ryan had expected, almost everyone was there already. “Alright Gabe, what’s up?”

Ryan settled next to Gouken as Leah entered, followed shortly by Chantal and Wolfrik. “That’s a great question,” Wolfrik commented, flopping onto the floor. “What’s the plan?”

“We’re going to split up again,” Gabriel stated. “Some of us will stay here, others are going to DC, and everyone else is going to head across the country where necessary.”

Ran nodded, “Wolfrik, you’re going to DC with Leah. Slater’s going to need help making allies and we’re going to do what we can to help. You’ll be accompanied by Al, he’s a minor telepath, not at Gabe’s level, but enough to make sure no one’s lying.” Ryan raised a brow at that, wondering why he wasn’t going as his powers were well suited for making allies.

“Jean will go with Maria and I,” Gabriel stated. “We’re headed to Massachusetts; Eli’s mentioned some leads we need to track down. It looks like there might be a Midnighter base there.”

“Becca, you, Tanner and Chantal are going to Seattle with Annette, who’s a shield. There’s a group of people gathering there, we need to get to them before the Midnighter’s do, you need to show them there’s another option,” Ula added.

“I’m staying here with Eli, we’ll be keeping an eye on all of you and sending people your way when we can,” Gabe stated. “Ford, Gina, Ryan, Gouken, you’re headed back to Chicago. They have enough of a base near there that no one’s taken action over everything that’s happened, you have to find it.”

Ryan raised a brow, he hadn’t expected for their group to be sent back to Chicago. He felt Gouken tense at his side and Kosei let out a low hiss of shock. “That’s our only goal, isn’t it?” Ford commented after a moment, voice low.

Gabe offered Ford a slight, sad smile, “We’re not going to deny you the opportunity, Ford. But yes, your main focus is the Midnighters.”

“Of course, if the opportunity presents itself, you’re more than welcome to take it,” Ran added.

Ford blew out a quiet sigh, running a hand through his short cropped hair. “Well then,” Wolfrik commented after a moment of terse silence. “This’ll be fun. Politicians.”

“Better than me,” Rebecca commented, “Most new recruits are horrible to deal with.”

While the others began comparing assignments, Ryan kept his focus on Ford. He wasn’t sure how the elder man was feeling about returning to Chicago, but he was certain he didn’t enjoy the fact Clark couldn’t be their priority. The stark knowledge in his eyes over the situation pained Ryan and he bit his lips in contemplation.

It only took a few moments for Ryan to notice the way Gabe’s gaze rest on Ford, and the way Ford’s body was angled toward Gabe. By now he’d learned the signs of when Gabe resorted to telepathy, and from the tension of the telepath’s shoulders, he was certain the two men were arguing.

After a long while, Ford sighed softly, shoulders slumped in defeat. “Gouken, do me a favor? They’ll recognize all our vehicles and Gina’s truck isn’t big enough for all of us. Can you go talk to Eli about getting us another car? I’ve got some work I want to do.”

Gouken nodded sympathetically and stood and Kosei climbed up his partner’s body until he was perched on the man’s shoulder. “Of course. I’ll bring my stuff into your room when I’m done, we’ll all meet there.”

Wolfrik stood as well, “I’m with you! Leah and I need a ride!” He declared, looking around, “I better see all of you next time we meet up, or else I shall hunt you down and cut you!” Chantal giggled, Ryan grinned and he thought that even Ford might have smiled. “I mean it,” He repeated, pulling Chantal up and kissing her.

Ford looked to Ryan and Gina, and spoke over the sound of Maria and Tanner giving instructons. “Do what you’ve gotta do and meet when you can in my room,” He commented. “Take your time though.”

He slipped out of the room without another word and Gabriel followed him, looking determined. Kia shook her fur out and sighed, “He isn’t trying to be rude. Just try and bear with him,” She requested, joining Ran as they followed their partners.

Gina shook her head slightly, looking just a little worried, and Ryan couldn't help but echo the sentiment. “He’ll be okay, right?” He couldn’t imagine being told he couldn’t help his friends- it would be hard enough to even avoid David- and he was sure the order was hurting Ford. Just because it was necessary to avoid Clark wouldn’t make it easy for Ford, and Ryan desperately wanted to help the elder man.

“He’ll be fine,” Gabe smiled warmly, “There’s nothing to worry about. Just give him time,” He paused for a moment while Gina left the room, followed by Maria and Jean. “You’re going to Chicago for a reason, you know.”

 

[CrystalPrison]

Chapter 18

Ryan stretched as he awoke, immensely confused as to where he was. The bed he was in was smaller than the one he’d grown used to at Eli’s, and more worn down than the ones in the warehouse. Stifling a yawn, he scanned the room, dimly recognizing the few boxes that lined one wall.

He was in Ford’s guest room, the one his friend used to store the things he couldn’t bring with him when travelling with Gabriel. After Ford had ordered pizza, the duo had stayed up a decent portion of the night watching movies Ryan had never seen and playing video games he’d never heard of, before all but collapsing in exhaustion.

With a sigh, the teenager slid out of his borrowed bed, smoothing out the covers absently. He felt well rested after a night of relaxing and ready to take on the day and challenges that would come with their new search.

Flicking on the light, Ryan dug in his bag until he’d found the clothes he’d brought for the day. It went without saying that Ford wouldn’t be up for quite a while –not that Ryan blamed him- but the teenager was hoping he could get ready for the day without waking his friend. Just because he wouldn’t be able to sleep any longer didn’t mean he wanted Ford to suffer for it.

The teen padded as quietly as possible towards the bathroom, glad Ford had insisted Ryan make himself at home. As such, he had no qualms about grabbing a towel and stripping out of the shorts he’d worn to sleep before sliding into the shower.

Fifteen minutes later, Ryan exited the bathroom, feeling far cleaner and wearing the jeans and tank top he’d brought. He wasn’t remotely shocked that both Kia and Ford were nowhere to be seen, and despite the fact it was a bit awkward to be alone in Ford’s flat, Ryan was content.

It took just a few moments for Ryan to start brewing a pot of coffee, though finding food to go along with it seemed close to impossible. The problem with Ford constantly being out with Gabe was that he rarely needed to stock food; the only thing in his cupboards was a mostly empty box of granola bars, a can of Spam and a box of Twinkies.

The general lack of fresh food worried Ryan about the quality of his coffee, but the expiration date on the can assured him it was fine. At the very least, it smelled fine and it had been sealed when he’d found it. Ford had probably bought it shortly before the mall incident.

Ten minutes later he’d poured himself his first cup of coffee and settled on Ford’s worn old couch. There was no possibility of watching T.V. –it was no use paying the cable bill when you weren’t home- and Ryan didn’t feel like putting on another movie.

Instead, he amused himself by picking through the comic books and guides lined up on Ford’s bookshelf, intrigued. He’d confessed the night before that he hadn’t heard of half the things Ford and Gouken talked about, and that he was relatively clueless about what they’d discussed.

That didn’t mean he wanted to be left out though, because Ryan honestly wanted to learn more about the passions of his friends. Returning to the couch with an encyclopedia of some kind, Ryan flicked on the table lamp and opened the book. It looked interesting enough, and he was hoping it’d keep him busy until Ford woke up.

“Having fun?”Ryan looked up at the sound of Kia’s voice, chuckling at the badly concealed -amusement in her words. He smiled warmly at the dog as she climbed onto the couch, “What’re you reading?”

“Comic book encyclopedia,” He stated, showing her the book. “I don’t like being clueless.”

“And the reason you don’t ask is what, exactly? The others would be happy to help.” She pointed out, peering down at the book, “The good news is you started out with a good one. Ford’s made some bad picks; he just likes them too much to throw them out.”

Ryan snickered at that, but stood to put the book back where he’d found it. “Got’cha, Ford’s a packrat. I’ll keep that in mind.”

“Hey now, I resent that,” Ford commented voice thick with exhaustion. “I’m not that bad, don’t listen to her.”

Ryan looked up and smiled fondly at the sight a groggy looking, shirtless Ford standing in the doorway. The man rubbed a hand over his face and through his rumpled hair, offering Ryan a tired smile as he crossed the room, adjusting the clothes he’d thrown over one arm.

“You look like you could use another few hours,” Ryan observed. “Did we wake you?”

“There was no ‘we’ about it,” Ford commented, stifling a yawn with his free hand. “Kia’s being annoying: dumb mutt.” His tone was warm and teasing despite the exhaustion in his voice, “Did you have to wake me up?”

“Yes, there’s no food in the house and I’m hungry,” Kia commented. “And I’m sure Ry’s been up since dawn, again. You’re taking us out to breakfast once you’re clean.”

Ford rolled his eyes and gave Ryan a knowing smile, “Lemme guess, I smell. In my defense, you should’ve reminded me to get the air conditioner fixed.” He paused for a moment, and spoke again when Kia didn’t reply, “Hope you didn’t bake last night, Ry.”

“I’m from Nevada, this is nothing,” Ryan assured his friend, earning a low laugh from Ford.

“He’s not the one with fur,” Kia pointed out, shaking out her fur and moving towards Ford’s room. “No go, before I decide to start finding how to make comic book confetti.”

Ford’s eyes widened comically and he clutched at his chest before falling to his knees. Ryan grinned as his friend pretended to die, and nudged the blond’s arm with one foot. “You know, if you stay there long enough, she’ll probably bite you.”

Ford rolled onto his back, eyes sparkling with mirth, “I’m dead though, so I’d be a zombie, so I’d bite her back. And then we’d be the first zombie Ascendants and go around eating brains. Don’t worry though, you’ll be safe, nothing to eat.”

Ryan kicked his friend lightly in the ribs and smirked when Ford clutched at his side, though his laughter marred the act. “Watch yourself, Fordo. Gouken’s officially trained me to kick your scrawny butt.” That was a lie, of course, but that wasn’t the point.

“Says he who weighs ninety pounds,” Ford commented, pushing himself up. Ryan punched his friend lightly in response, and earned himself a smack on the back of his head in response. “Alright, alright, a hundred,” The blond stuck his tongue out, “Now let me go shower before Kia kills us both.”

“Good,” Ryan shoved his friend towards the bathroom as he spoke, “She’s right, I’m starving.”

“Go eat the Spam,” Ford called as he shut the bathroom door, “It’s better than it looks.”

“As if,” Ryan muttered, crossing to the kitchen and pouring himself another cup of coffee. He pulled a granola bar from its box with a sigh and examined it carefully. It wasn’t expired, which he was immensely grateful for.

“Nothing edible for me, I take it,” Kia asked, approaching. Ryan nodded in response and the dog huffed, “Of course there isn’t. I don’t know why I keep that man around.”

“You love him,” Ryan reminded her without missing a beat, “Even with his idiotic moments.” Kia shrugged and made noncommittal noise in response, settling down by the counter. Ryan smiled at the dog, but lowered himself to the ground to pet her, “It’s true.”

“That hardly means I have to admit it,” She countered simply. “It’ll go to his head far too quickly.” Ryan smirked at that, knowing that Ford would know the truth at any rate, and that Kia knew that as well. “Don’t look so smug, I’ll bite you.”

“Nice people –and dogs- don’t bite,” Ryan commented, “And since you’re nice and you love me, you won’t. Besides, if I start bleeding that’s more time until we get some real food.” That made Kia laugh, and the redhead smiled warmly.

As he pet the dog, he contemplated what he knew about partners and their humans. He knew they were bonded in a way he couldn’t possibly understand, and that they somehow managed to both reflect and contradict their partners.

He knew just as well that both Kosei and Kia felt bad he’d yet to find his partner. He knew they’d basically adopted him, that they were keeping an eye on him until they found his partner. The teenager appreciated that more than he could say, it was lonely be the only person without a partner and it helped to have someone that listened.

“Comfy?” Ryan started at Ford’s voice, though Kia seemed completely nonplussed. The blond man crossed over to the coffee pot and poured himself a mug. “Gimme two minutes and we’ll head out. I know this little café with a patio, they’ll let Kia stay there.”

Ryan nodded and leaned back against the cupboard, “Sounds fun. Do they have good food too?”

“Not bad, and it’s cheap enough,” Ford paused to take a long draught of his drink. “Not that we have to worry about that with Gouken around, but old habits die hard.” The blond man offered Ryan a warm smile, “Besides, I’m sure you know what it’s like to be poor.”

“Waiters have it worse than comic shop owners,” Ryan agreed without missing a beat. Ford laughed softly at that, and shot Kia a look. The dog got up and Ryan followed suit, leaning against the counter, “We using Gouken’s debit card?”

Ford drained his drink, set the mug on the counter and nodded, “Remember, always abuse the billionaire’s money.” The blond crossed over the room, towards the front door and Ryan followed, shutting off the lights as he went. He pulled on the boots he wore, content to listen as Ford spoke. “Besides, he’ll be insulted if you pay on your own.”

“Yeah,” Ryan agreed, following Ford out the door, “Sometimes rich friends are a pain.”

That earned a warm laugh from Kia, “You can’t honestly be complaining,” She commented as Ford unlocked the Jeep and opened the back door for his partner. “Then again, you’d complain if they were all poor, wouldn’t you?”

“Got that right!” Ryan quipped, climbing into the passenger seat. “It’s human nature to bitch and whine about everything.”

“No, I think that’s just you,” Ford teased. Ryan cuffed his friend on the back of the head in response, and the blond man stuck out his tongue. “No wounding the driver or you’re not going anywhere.”

“Believe it or not, I can drive,” Ryan commented. “I’m better than you too, so I don’t need you for anything.”

“You’d miss my charming personality and amazing good looks,” Ford countered without missing a beat. “Plus, I can just kick you out of the car. Problem solved.”

“But you won’t,” Ryan spoke with complete confidence and focused just a little on his powers. “You like me far too much.”

Ford looked as though he’d deny Ryan until something changed in his gaze. There was a long moment where Ford gazed intently at Ryan while the teen fought back a smirk, and then Ford shook his head violently. “No fair! No using powers to win arguments!”

The protest was amusingly feeble, and Ryan smiled, ducked his head in false guilt and released his powers. Ford shook his head once more, ran a hand through his hair and reached over to flick Ryan. “What was that for?”

“Cheating, friends don’t mess with friends’ heads,” Ford stated, pulling out of the driveway. He hit the curb as he went, and Ryan sighed, “Sorry. Not my fault, I swear.”

“For a guy whose name is Ford, you’re a horrible driver,” Ryan muttered. “Do me a favor and never name your kid Harley, after the bike. If you do, bad things will happen; bikes lack walls to protect people like cars do.”

“Gee thanks. I feel so good about my skills now,” Ford rolled his eyes as Kia laughed. “You make me feel so happy.”

“It’s motivation to learn to drive, Fordo,” Ryan stated without missing a beat. “Besides, I’m not saying you completely lack skill, you just lack driving skills. And I love you despite your flaws.”

“Oh goody, I have Ry’s love now, I can die happy.” Ford’s tone was somehow both emotionless and sarcastic, and Ryan rolled his eyes. “After all, what’s life without the love and approval of the world’s only goth, gay, redheaded people magnet from Nevada?”

“Don’t make me hit you again,” Ryan grumbled, though he hid a smirk behind his hand. “I won’t regret it.”

“You will when I don’t buy your breakfast with Gouken’s money,” Ford reminded him. “Or when I push you out of here. It’ll be fun.” As he spoke, he made a too sharp turn that had Ryan clutching at the handle of the door and the center consul. “Oops, sorry. But hey, there’s the café.”

“Too bad there’s no parking,” Kia added. “Looks like we’re walking.”

Ford groaned, “Ugh, I hate exercise. It’s like geek kryptonite, it’ll kill me slowly. Can’t I just levitate the car and call it good?”

“It’d probably help us find any Midnighters in the area,” Ryan chuckled. “But I feel like Gabe and Gabriel would kill us.”

“You’d be gutted through telepathy, which I’m certain would be an interesting experience,” Kia added from the back. “But I’d rather not see or experience that, so we’re walking.”

“You wound me so,” Ford muttered, turning the corner. “The food better be as good as I remember.”

“I’m sure it’ll be even better,” Ryan reassured him. “And if not, I can always politely ask they go make us new, better food and give it to us for free.”

“Devious,” Ford praised, scanning the area for a spot. “Any chance you’d be willing to stick your head out the window and con someone into giving us their spot?”

“It’s tempting,” Kia muttered, “But not that much. You can get out and walk, there’s a spot.”

Ford grinned and pumped his fist, “Yes! Time to eat!” The man was blissfully careful as he wedged the Jeep between two cars, and he slid it into park with a satisfied sigh. “And we’re only five blocks away!”

Ryan shook his head as he slid out of the car, “Maybe if you would’ve gotten in the shower faster we would’ve gotten a better spot.”

“And maybe if you weren’t up at the crack of dawn, we wouldn’t even be out right now,” Ford countered. “I blame you.”

“Kia’s the one that woke you up,” The redhead countered. “I was the nice one that would’ve stayed quiet and read. And I made you coffee.”

“There’s that, you do know my one true weakness and use it well,” Ford conceded. “But if you weren’t awake, Kia would’ve seen no reason to get me up. So it’s still all your fault.”

“I refuse to accept that,” Ryan folded his arms firmly across his chest. “It isn’t my fault at all.”

“Except for the fact it is,” Ford paused for a moment and grinned, before slinging an arm around Ryan’s shoulders. “And Kia wants me to tell you she thinks we’re both idiots,” He added quietly to the teenager. “And if we don’t behave she’ll bite us.”

Ryan snickered quietly, looked down and saw Kia wagging her tail, obviously pleased that Ford had delivered her message. “I’ve already got enough scars from a horse. I don’t need them from her too.”

That earned laughter from Ford, and Ryan grinned at his innate ability to amuse his friend. “You’ve gotta tell me that story, beginning to end one day. Do it while we’re here, so we can’t get interrupted by everyone Eli’s got lying around.”

“Of course,” Ryan agreed, remembering how hard it was to just relax at Eli’s. It was hard to find alone time in a base filled with all those people, especially when you drew them to you. “Maybe later, it’ll be a good excuse to make Gouken give us a break.”

Before Ford could respond, Ryan heard someone nearby call out his name. He sucked in a shocked breath and tensed, recognizing it instantly. “Fuck.”

“Friends of yours, Ry?” Ford asked, voice low. The teenager nodded tensely, “Real friends who you actually care about?” He nodded again. Ford squeezed Ryan’s shoulder lightly, “Don’t worry, I’m good at lying about this. I’ll follow your lead.”

“Ryan, you dirty rotten little idiot! Were you planning on telling me you finally got your scrawny ass back in town?” Ryan shifted his gaze to David, recognizing mink brown hair that was longer than he remembered and dark green eyes. Next to his old friend walked a blond haired, hazel eyed young man, and Ryan tried not to panic.

Instead, he made himself focus on the fact Ford and Kia were right there, the older man still had his arm draped loosely over Ryan’s shoulders. “David, Jon, what’re you doing here?” When David looked ready to cut him off, Ryan shook his head. “I meant Chicago instead of Aurora for you and in the country for him.”

“Dave bought my ticket,” Jon explained, looking a little awkward. Despite plenty of emails, phone calls and letters, this was only the third time they’d seen each other since Jon had moved and since they’d broken up and the tension burned at Ryan. “It was supposed to be a surprise. It was why he wanted you home.”

“And you made it with four days to spare!” David concluded, clapping his hands together. “Good work!” He paused, surveying Ford with an interest Ryan knew far too well. “Who’s your friend?”

“Ford Newhart, nice to meet you,” Ford smiled warmly at them and Ryan relaxed at his general ease around people. The elder man was right; there was nothing to worry about.

David hummed in consideration and looked to Jon, who shook his head slightly. “So are you the one who kidnapped Ryan? He was stupid and didn’t tell anyone where he was going.” The brunette shot Ryan a dirty look as he spoke, though a smirk tugged at his features.

“I was one of them, but it wasn’t quite kidnapping,” Ford said after a moment, offering a light smile. “And it was kind of by request that he didn’t tell anyone.”

“Normally we tell at least one person where we’re really going, before one of us vanishes,” Ryan explained. “It’s old habit, in case something goes wrong.” He looked to David, “But that usually applies only regarding people you’ve never met before, that might be online creepers.”

“Well it would’ve been nice,” David muttered. “I’m sure you liked driving us crazy with worry for three weeks, seeing as you weren’t really with Kyle. He may never recover from Robert’s wrath. And this is calm-never-gets-mad-Robert of all people” There was a long pause and the brunette smirked lazily and glanced towards Ford, “Of course, I can understand if-”

“Don’t go there,” Ryan muttered. “I will end you, if you do.” He knew exactly what David was implying; that he was dating or sleeping with Ford. “And the answer is no.”

“Me thinks the lady doth protest too much,” David teased, flashing Ryan a warm grin. “But I’ll behave. Unless, of course, I can-”

“Waste of time, and I’ll still end you,” Ryan said simply. He paused, realizing Ford had tensed minutely next to him and that Kia had gone missing. “Told you to get her a leash.”

The slight pressure on his shoulder was all Ryan needed to realize Ford had been waiting for a way out. “Yeah, I better go find her.” He agreed, letting his hand drop from Ryan’s shoulder. “I’ll call if I need help. Dumb mutt,” The man nodded goodbye and headed off confidently.

Ryan knew exactly what that meant. Kia had found something interesting, Ford thought he could handle it, but would call if it got bad. He also knew he’d finish up this conversation as quickly as possible, just in case.

“Sorry for interrupting you,” Jon said, and Ryan saw he was actually sorry, unlike David. “You want us to go?”

“No, it’s not that,” Ryan ran a hand through his hair. These two were some of the closest people too him –or at least they had been- he didn’t want to lose them. He also didn’t want them hurt, though, and he knew that if they stuck around they would be. “It’s just, we had plans.”

“Like a date,” David stated. “I knew it!”

“We aren’t dating,” Ryan grit out, “We’re just friends. He’s straight, I’ve heard the comments.”

“But you like him,” Jon concluded, voice soft. Ryan saw no jealousy or anger in his ex’s eyes, just calm acceptance. “He seems, nice.”

Ryan rolled his eyes, “I’m not looking for a relationship, you guys. Life is a little chaotic right now, I’m going through an early midlife crisis. Ford and I are just friends and-” Ryan broke off as a low buzz filled the air, and he recognized it as the same from Denny’s. He swore, pushed David and Jon down, and used his body to shield them as a nearby building burst into pieces.

He could nearly feel the screams that burst into being around him, but Ryan’s only concern was Ford and Kia and David and Jon. He knew it was likely they were near the source of the explosion, that they could be hurt, or worse, and he refused to let that become a reality.

“Get away,” Ryan ordered, pushing himself up and drawing his gun from its’ spot in his bag. “Run, get back to Aurora and don’t come back. I’ll be fine, don’t worry. I’ll get in touch soon, just get away from here.”

He completely ignored hands that tried to grab him and pull him down, or their protests as he took off in the direction Ford had went. He would give just about anything to know the others were safe, and as Ryan slid a clip into place, he knew nothing would stop him.
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I give up....my formatting has screwed itself over. More shall come when it fixes itself.