Chapter 19 – Shadow Invasion part 2

Michael was screaming at the top of his lungs as he clung to Chaos Man’s torso tightly, locking his fingers together. He was moving at a speed equivalent to an airplane if he were clinging to it from the outside. It was a good thing he thought about putting his glasses in his pocket first before they left the mansion. Bad news was the wind was getting into his eyes, forcing him to bury his face into Alex’s back.

Alex can tell how uncomfortable it is for him but doesn’t have the luxury of giving him a smooth flight, not with the lives of Jackson and the orphans on the line. Whatever Wilfre has planned for them, they know it’s nothing good. He doesn’t doubt that he may kill them just to get even with him, not anymore.

And low and behold, their worse fears have been unveiled. Only a few miles from their location they can see yet another rise of smoke in the distance. Chaos Man encourages Michael to take a look at their childhood home going up in purple flames.

Chaos Man: We’re too late!

Michael: He… he really did it… God fucking damnit!

Chaos Man: We must hurry! There may still be time to save everyone.

The duo race down towards the neighbourhood Hillside House once stood proudly on. Several people have appeared on the streets to see what was happening, being drawn in by the strange purple flames. The fire department hasn’t arrived yet and there were no signs of Jackson and the children yet. Michael feared they might be trapped inside.

Once they got close enough to the ground, Michael immediately let's go and makes a beeline for the orphanage , not even hesitating for a second to rush into a burning building if it meant saving lives.

Chaos Man: Michael, wait!

However, he was denied entry by a dark lightning strike impacting the ground mere inches from where he was about to place his right foot, startling the Mercer, causing him to stumble back.

Wilfre: CHAOS MAN!

He and Chaos Man direct their attention to the sky and there they see the dark villain hovering over them, sneering at the duo as he mockingly waved his index finger at them, like a parent telling off their child after misbehaving. The sudden arrival of Wilfre scares the people below and forces them to run and take shelter back in their homes. They’ll leave this to the professionals.

Wilfre: Sorry boys, it’s an exclusive club. No heroes allowed!

Michael grits his teeth with anger, glaring up at the despicable fiend and clenches his fists.

Michael: Wilfre! Come down here and face us, coward!

Wilfre: Can’t do that, I’m afraid. I can’t very well watch the show from down there… Why don’t you come up here and face me instead, Alex?

Chaos Man: And why would I do that?

Wilfre’s grin grew wider, like he’d been hoping for that response, so that he has an excuse to reveal his hostages. With a snap of his fingers two small portals appear next to him. He puts both arms into them. Then two more, far larger than usual, portals manifested far apart on both sides of him. Chaos Man’s hand hovers over his belt where the chaos emerald rested, expecting to see all the monsters he teleported away climb out of them. But what they got was something far worse.

Out the left portal an enlarged version of Wilfre’s hand poked out and in his grasp was a terrified Violet struggling to break free. Her arms are locked to her sides with Wilfre’s grip tightening with every attempt. It was like holding a doll in the palm of his hand, he was almost tempted to crush her right here and now. But that wouldn’t be fun for him. He wanted to put Chaos Man in a desperate situation, one where he cannot save everyone.

To do that, his other enlarged hand emerges out of the other portal. This one was holding onto a shadowy chain that held up another cage of darkness. Inside the cage were all the children huddled together in fear. Once they spotted Chaos Man, they all call out for help, begging him to save them.

Wilfre: We’re going to play a little game. If you don’t agree to join me, they’ll both die right now! You have three seconds. One. Two…

Chaos Man: Wait! I-I’m coming… Michael, see if there’s anyone still inside. I’ll handle Wilfre.

Michael nodded and waited for Chaos Man to fly up to join Wilfre in the sky and for his attention focused solely on him, giving him an opening to head inside and search the place. He reaches into one of his coat pockets and pulls out his glasses and a small gas mask that only covers his mouth and nose and puts them on. After seeing the first two fires caused by the bastard, he had a gut feeling he may have to save someone from a potential third one.

While he’s planning out his rescue, Chaos Man flies upwards and joins Wilfre high up in the sky a good long distance from him. The deranged supervillain spawns a third hand out of his right shoulder and holds it up, ordering him not to come any closer. No explanation was needed, all he did was tighten his grip around Violet and loosen it on the chain. The message was loud and clear. Chaos Man kept his distance and will do things his way for now.

Chaos Man: What do you want?

Wilfre: For you to know the pain I’ve felt all my life. You wanted to be the hero and now you must pay the price, I’m gonna show you why only fools choose to be heroes by proving that you can’t save everyone… Have you enjoyed it, buddy? Being the hero? Has it taught you wonderful things? Well let’s see you answer this, which one of them is more important to save? The woman you love, or the innocent little children. Make your choice, Chaos Man, and feel the weight of a hero’s burden!

Chaos Man: Don’t do this, Jason! Please! This is between you and me, let them go!

Wilfre: Do you remember that famous quote from that final episode of Captain Cosmic you forced me to watch? After defeating the villain, he said: “we are who we choose to be.” Now shut up and choose!

Without any warning, Wilfre lets go of Violet and the bottom of the cage opens up like a trapdoor, allowing them to fall through. Both Violet and the children scream in terror as gravity began pulling them down hard.

Chaos Man: NO!

Wilfre: Tick tock, tick tock, Alex. Better hurry, hahahaha!

There was no time at all for him to stop and think about who to save. His instincts forced him to go after Violet first, quickly scooping her up in his arms before blasting off in the opposite direction to rescue the falling children before they hit the asphalt concrete road beneath them. But there were too many of them for him to carry alone. Even if he dropped Violet off on the ground safely, there wasn’t any time to come back and save them all. At least a few kids will die, which is exactly what Wilfre is hoping for, to further prove his point that not even Chaos Man can save everyone all at once.

Michael: Hold on, Alex- Argh!

There was no depending on Michael either as he had his own problems to deal with. While his back was turned, a few shadow demons appeared behind him and grab his ankles, tripping him over and are now dragging him towards the burning building.

Michael struggles to grab his handguns, Duty and Sacrifice, and aims them at the shadow’s heads. But much like Wilfre, his bullets simply phase through them unharmed. His weapons are useless against these ghost-like creatures.

Wilfre was enjoying the show from the sky. Chaos Man was struggling to catch and carry every falling child whilst keeping Violet secure in his left arm. Even if by some chance Alex did manage to save Violet and the children, his shadow demons will have dragged Michael into his dark flames and kill him there. He is determined to see the look of despair on his masked face as the revelation sank into the depths of his psyche.

Time was running out, and the kids were dangerously close to meeting their demise. Chaos Man desperately scans the neighbourhood for anything that can help him save them all at once. His eyes were fixed on a large, empty inflatable pool in one of the neighbours’ back gardens, as well as a trampoline. That could work as a net to catch them all in if he hurries.

Chaos Man: Sorry, Violet, but I’m gonna have to drop you now.

Violet: What?! Ahhhh!

Chaos Man quickly flies downwards towards the neighbour’s back garden. On the way he let’s go of Violet once he was close enough, allowing her to fall onto the large trampoline to cushion her fall. From there he grabs the ends of the emptied kiddie pool and quickly flies back to where the kids are. They were now only five seconds away from impact.

He holds his arms out to the sides, opening the pool enough to act like a net as he flies by the children, scooping them up like little fish in a net. He barely managed to catch them all in time. He was so focused on saving them that he failed to notice that Michael was in danger. He flies the children away from the scene and gently puts the kiddie pool full of orphans down in the neighbour’s garden where he dropped off Violet.

Violet: Are the children alright?

Chaos Man: Yeah, I think so, just a little rattled. Look after them while I deal with Wilfre, Miss.

Violet: You can count on me, Alex.

Chaos Man paused at the mention of his real name escaping her lips, prompting him to glance back at her.

Chaos Man: You know?

Violet: Yeah, he told me. I also know that’s Jason up there. It doesn’t matter right now, just stop him please.

Chaos Man nods and takes off, leaving Violet and the children behind. As he arrived, he was greeted by the sarcastic slow clap from the not so impressed shadow demon lord.

Wilfre: Very impressive, you managed to save them both… Unfortunately, you failed to save your best friend, Michael, as I knew you would.

Chaos Man: What?!

He instantly turns himself around midair and scours the ground for Michael who he only now realised has gone missing. Wilfre continued to laugh at his cluelessness as he slowly descends to the ground, making a gentle touchdown onto the grass.

Wilfre: You broke the precious superhero code. You let one person die to save another… Do you see it now, Alex? What being a hero is all about? Even if you had saved everyone today, someone else will come along and ensure that you fail next time… Now that you know my pain, I can move onto the last stage of my plan.

Chaos Man: I’m not gonna let that happen.

Wilfre: Oh yeah? And how do you plan to stop me? You gonna beat me up, put handcuffs on me, lock me up in prison? This isn’t a cartoon, Alex. The only way you can truly stop me is to stop me from breathing!

Their conversation was abruptly cut off by a sudden loud bang coming from inside Hillside House. Both parties direct their gaze at the entrance where both of them showed clear signs of a shocked expression as they spot Michael emerging from the burning building with a very injured Jackson in his arms. His wound was covered up by bandages that Michael applied to stop the bleeding or at least as much as he could until an ambulance can be called.

Chaos Man: Michael!

Wilfre: How are you still alive?!

Michael gently puts Jackson down on the ground and leans him up against the Hillside House sign.

Michael: Used a flashbang to clear out those shadow creatures as they dragged me in.

Wilfre: Pfft, a lucky break. You’re still going to die eventually just like Jackson there. You’ll all meet the same fate as him, my parents, May Li, and Will Craft!

Both Alex and Michael’s eyes widened at Wilfre’s words, expressing a look of pure horror at the mention of May Li’s name being among the dead he was listing off. His parents and Will Craft they can understand why he wanted them dead, but May Li hadn’t done anything wrong.

Chaos Man: You… you killed May Li?! H-how could you do that?!

Wilfre: She accused me of killing her wife when I never did such a thing! She’s always hated me and would’ve used any chance she got to get rid of me!

Chaos Man: She never did anything to you!

Wilfre: She would have if I’d given her the chance. It’s because of her I had to run away, which led to me being forced to kill those corrupt police. I did what I had to do to make her pay!

Michael: Liar…

Michael said quietly with a tone of pure malice in his voice. He takes a step forward, getting a little closer to the creature that was once Jason Dark. His eyes full of hatred for this monster and the scepter it held.

Michael: Revenge? Self defence? Those were all excuses for you to kill them, because your cold, black, filthy heart enjoyed it! It doesn’t matter if they’re deserving or not, you get a kick out of it regardless, I can tell by that smile on your face. You just see us all as collateral damage, things to destroy just to satisfy your urge. Killing is an addiction like any other drug, and you’ve overdosed. That scepter you’re holding, it's what killed my mother and started the Monster War! I made a vow that I would rid this world of its evil, and I intend to do that by killing you before history repeats itself!

Wilfre briefly glances at his scepter as he tried to picture it being used to kill Michael’s mother. In his mind she was faceless since he had no clue what she looked like, but it didn’t change the fact that he secretly entertained the thought of controlling the very thing that kickstarted the Monster War. It somehow made him feel even more powerful than before. There was so much more he could do with it than just kill people he hated.

The way he was grinning and giggling fiendishly made Michael’s blood boil. His hatred for Wilfre had completely blinded him beyond rational logic, his instincts screaming to run up to him and lay the mother of all beatdowns on him, to kill him with his bare hands. Mercer growls in rage at the sound.

Michael: DIE, YOU BASTARD!

Chaos Man: Michael, don’t!

He screams with a mighty rage as he charged towards Wilfre, determined to kill him. Maybe he’ll smash his head in with the scepter or at least stab him through the heart with it. That would be poetic justice for how his mother was killed. Alex tries to stop him, but he was beyond reason. The fact that Wilfre wasn’t even trying to run or put up some kind of defence only agitated him further.

With a subtle raising of the hand, Wilfre sends out a burst of dark purple lightning at Michael, shocking his body to a dead stop before blasting him backwards. Chaos Man quickly jumps into his path and catches him. He lies him down on the grass gently and checks him over for any serious injuries. Michael seemed fine for the most part, but he was still hurt from the electricity.

Wilfre: So much for him being a specially trained soldier. His rage has unbalanced him. That’s not how a soldier is supposed to fight, isn’t it?

Chaos Man’s right hand clenches into a tight fist as he slowly turns his head back to look in Wilfre’s direction.

Chaos Man: You…

Wilfre: Pathetic, both of you… Well, Alex, I suppose this is the part of the story where I monologue about my evil plans and explain what I’m going to do next, giving you a chance to stop me. Mmmm… nah! I’m not one of Captain Cosmic’s cliché supervillains. But I will tell you this, I’m not gonna start killing everyone. No, there are some things so much worse than death waiting for them, hahahahaha!

Chaos Man: Jason… this is your last chance to stop this. In spite of all you’ve done, I am willing to give you this. If you don’t, then what happens next will be your own fault.

The way Chaos Man worded that sentence was different than his usual calm manner of speaking. He tried so many times to give Jason a chance to fight back against this evil that took over him, but he rejected every one of his warnings. If he rejects this one… he fears what he may need to do next to stop him.

Wilfre: How many times are you gonna make me say it until it sinks into your tiny brain? I am Jason Dark no longer! I. Am. Wilfre!

Another burst of lighting sparks from his fingertips, blasting the hero down next to Michael. Now that they were both lying down on the ground, Alex and Michael can feel faint tremors in the earth that felt like they were growing stronger with each passing moment. At first it could be anything, but then their ears picked up the faint distant roars of what sounded like over a dozen rampaging monsters heading their way.

Wilfre: Ah, my new friends are on their way for a visit. I hope they’ve had fun playing in the city, cuz now I wanna see them tear it apart like they did in the Monster War! Only this time… the humans will lose.

The shadowy villain slowly begins to levitate up into the air as the two would be heroes stand back up and turns his head towards the west of the orphanage. He can see them, all those monsters he released from Aegis are heading in his direction, responding to the Umbra Ruby’s energy signature, like a barrage of missiles homing in on a target.

Wilfre: It’s the end of the world, Alex! You and Michael try to enjoy what little time you have left while you still can. Bye-bye.

He waved mockingly before disappearing through another one of his portals. The monsters were quickly closing in on their location, it was only a matter of time before they swarmed the neighbourhood, and without the aid of Aegis or even Magna Tech’s robots, it was down to the two of them to fend them off.

Chaos Man: Michael, make sure Jackson, Violet and the children are safe while I hold them off. You can join me when they’re secure.

Michael: On it.

Michael replied with a nod before rushing back to Jackson’s side. He was alive for now, but his wounds were near fatal, he could die if he doesn’t receive medical attention soon. Before moving him, Michael pulls out his med kit and wraps another layer of bandages around Jackson’s torso to stop the bleeding and douses his burns with some cool water.

Michael struggled with carrying him away from the orphanage, he was becoming literal dead weight due to his injuries. Fortunately, Violet showed up in time to catch Jackson and put his other arm over her shoulder, giving Michael a hand.

Violet: Whoa easy, I got him… Follow me, we’ll take him next door where the children are.

Michael: Thanks, Vi. I’m sorry you got mixed up in all this.

Violet: It doesn’t matter, we’re all fine for the the time being… Um, Michael… Alex is Chaos Man.

Michael: Oh, I already knew that.

Violet: What?! You knew the whole time?!

Michael: What- no! Not the whole time. I only found out a few hours ago, the same time Wilfre found out, that’s why he went after you. He wanted to use you to get to him. That bastard!

There were a lot of thoughts going through Violet’s head, slightly drowning out what Michael was saying. What happened with Jason, it reminded her of another person she once knew who went down the path of darkness. She and Alex certainly had more in common than they bargained for, their bad tastes in close friendships.

She wondered if those same thoughts were going through her boyfriend’s head now as he flew away from the orphanage closer to the centre of village where he can spot the monsters grouped up together like a living tidal wave of death and destruction. If he let them continue their march the entire village will be trampled. He had to eliminate them now.

He spirals downwind, letting the wind currents carry him so he can conserve his energy for the fight. A couple of flying monster spot him on approach and let loose a warning screech, alerting the others and forcing them to stop and gaze up at the sky.

His whole body was consumed by his chaos energy, turning him into a swirling comet that impacted the group of monsters before they even knew what hit them. The first strike took out the majority of the approaching monster in the centre of the herd, leaving several more injured while the ones on the outside were unharmed.

Now all their mismatched eyes were drawn to the hero as he rose from the crater he made. Though most of their numbers have dropped from that first attack, they still vastly out numbered him. The monsters roar as they all charge for him at once. Chaos Man summons the chaos emerald to his hand, transforms it into his chaos blade and swings it at the nearest monster’s head, cleaving it from its body.

The rest of the monsters all gun for him from different angles, trying to find an opening, but Chaos Man wasn’t making it easy for them. He was simply too fast for their eyes to keep up with him. Many monsters who’d reached out to grab him wound up losing their limbs before their minds could process what happened, before being silenced forever.

Alex was moving on pure instinct, not thinking about killing the monsters around him, just focusing on keeping himself and the townsfolk alive. He felt nothing for them, not because he thought less of them, but because he couldn’t afford to. They don’t have the intelligence to think about the lives they’ve taken since they’re nothing but wild animals that kill for sport in his mind. It made cutting them down somewhat easier. Yet Wilfre sees something more to them than mere beasts.

No matter how many monsters he cut down or blasted back with his chaos spear attacks, their numbers were still uncountable. He can already feel himself getting tired. Eventually, if this keeps up, his stamina will be drained, and he will be overwhelmed by their numbers. He can’t afford to die here, not when he just debuted as Chaos Man and while Wilfre is on the loose. Whether Aegis likes it or not, he is the only one who can stop him. He needed to take them all out at once.

Then suddenly it hit him. There was one technique that could be used for that very purpose. A new power he’d only just mastered a couple of days ago with Omnius. Time slows from his perspective as he thought back to that day.

He was in the middle of the courtyard standing in the middle of a circle of scorched stone with a cloud of smoke fading from all directions. He was exhausted, sweat dripping from his forehead. Omnius was standing far away from him, keeping out of range of whatever attack he’d just tested out. He was slowly clapping his hands together, congratulating him for his success.

Omnius: At last, you have unlocked one of the Genesis Emerald’s most destructive powers. You can now used this new power at will. However, I’d advise not to use it unless in a dire situation.

Alex: I-I will, Omnius. Sorry about your courtyard.

Omnius: It is alright, Alex. The inhibiters I gave you should prevent any damage to your surroundings or yourself in the future… One last thing you need to know about your powers, my boy. Your powers can become stronger when you say its name, compared to when you do not. Hear this and remember well, Alex, the name of that attack is…

As the memories came flooding back to him a huge surge of red chaos energy started to build up within him, radiating off his body like a dangerous aura. A final warning the monsters blatantly ignored as they closed in on him. Alex pulls his arms in and brings them to his chest as he felt the red, destructive chaos energy building up inside him and uttered the name of the new power he is about to unleash.

Chaos Man: Chaos… BLAST!

In a flash, Chaos Man stretches his arms out to the sides and arched his back out, releasing all that chaos energy into a massive red blast of destruction that spread outwards, obliterating everything within a 360-degree radius. Every single monster that was caught in the blast had been disintegrated the instant the energy collided with their bodies. Not even some of the bigger and stronger monsters that Aegis struggled with could survive it.

Michael and Violet all saw the blast occurring a few miles away from their current location, their jaws dropped with bewilderment. They were not only stunned by how powerful Chaos Man’s attack was, but also how the blast only managed to damage the monsters while all the houses, the road, and everything else in range were left intact. Not only can he unleash a powerful blast attack at will, but he can also decide what it can damage. “If only all explosions could do that” Michael thought.

With all the escaped monsters eliminated, the various rescue services were free to lend assistance to all who were in need of it. The fire department sent a fire engine to put out yet another fire caused by Wilfre, quenching his dark flames with a high-powered spray of water. Unfortunately, it was too late to save the orphanage. There wasn’t much of it left standing, just a smoky, charred husk of what it once represented. All the kids' belongings, the furniture, even the irreplaceable files Jackson had on all of them went up in flames. Even the backup copies stored on his computer didn’t survive.

A few ambulances were called to aid the wounded people. Hopefully they’ll be able to help Jackson who was barely clinging to life. About an hour later, Aegis had finally managed to lift the emergency lockdown and send out soldiers to assist and secure the city against any potential monster attacks now that they know what they’re up against.

Chaos Man, Michael and Violet were all sitting on the stares leading up to the entrance of Hillside House overlooking all the people carrying out their duties. Chase was with the doctors who were tending to Jackson laying in one of the strollers. They were sitting in silence, hoping, praying that somehow Jackson would pull through. Alex was in the middle, and Michael and Violet sat beside him.

By now the shock of learning that Alex was Chaos Man had completely faded from Violet’s thoughts. She once had so many questions for him, wondering why he kept this from her for so long. But after taking time to think about it she realised that he had his reasons and she shouldn’t hold it against him. In the end, she’s just glad that of all the people Chaos Man could’ve been it turned out to be someone she knows will use his powers responsibly. Michael shared that same thought.

They lift their heads from their hands when they see Chase slowly approaching them. His posture was hunched slightly; his head hanging a bit low with a sad look in his eye. All bad signs of whatever kind of news he is about to deliver.

Michael: How is he, Dad?

Chase: …I’m sorry, Son, but there’s nothing we can do for him. The doctors’ say his vital organs had been crushed by the the beam that fell on him in the house, further worsening his internal bleeding from the stab wound he received. They’ve stabilised him as best they can, but he… he doesn’t have long… If you want, you can go and say your goodbyes.

He muttered sorrowfully before walking away to talk to some of his officers, giving the boys the privacy they needed. Alex and Michael were horrified by this news. They feared that this would happen but were foolishly hoping for a miracle, they should have mentally prepared themselves more for this. Neither of them was ready to say “goodbye” but it had to be now while Jackson still held onto life.

Violet gently places her hand on Chaos Man’s leg, encouraging him and Michael to go talk to him while they still can or else they will come to regret it for the rest of their lives, something she knew from experience. Alex and Michael slowly approach Jackson lying on the stretcher and stand at his side. He was hooked up to a portable respirator that was keeping him alive for as long as possible, allowing him to say goodbye to his kids. He could barely keep his eyes open or muster enough strength to talk in full, complete sentences. All he can do is keep it short and to the point.

Jackson: A-Alex… M-Michael…

Michael: Save your strength, we’re not going anywhere.

Michael says softly as he grasps Jackson’s hand tightly. He can feel his pulse weakening. There’s not a lot of time left. Whatever he had to say he must speak it now.

Michael: I’m so sorry, Jackson, this whole thing is my fault. I-I shou- I shoud’ve been here sooner…

Jackson: Don’t… think like… that… Michael. (coughs) You two did what you could. Saving the children and all those people, that’s what matters most… Listen, what happened to Jason, neither of you are to blame, I am. I only did what I thought was best for him… but I see now that… the pain he feels was too strong for me to heal.

Seeing Jackson like this really hurt the boys, especially Michael. Gazing at the stab wound in his chest reminded him of the same wound his mother had the day she died. The users may be different, but the murder weapon stayed the same. And just like back then he stood there feeling powerless to save someone he cared deeply about. He pulls his hand away from Jackson so that he could clench both his fists tightly. The thoughts of vengeance plagued his mind once again, but now they were focused on the scepter’s new owner. He didn’t care anymore who he used to be, he just wanted justice.

Michael: I swear to you, Jackson, whatever it takes, I will find Wilfre, and I will make him pay for what he’s done! And I will make sure it hurts!

He muttered that last part venomously. It was hard for Alex and Jackson to watch, especially Jackson as those were the last words he will hear from Michael as he decided to walk away rather than watch the man who raised him die. However, Alex chose to stay with him all the way, holding his hand and apologising on Michael’s behalf.

Chaos Man: Forgive Michael, he’s not thinking straight.

Jackson: Alex… let me have a look at your face… please.

Chaos Man pauses momentarily and takes a quick glance around the area, making sure nobody was watching before leaning closer to Jackson and allowing his mask to disappear and his eyes changing back to their original colour, revealing his true face to him one last time. Jackson slowly reached out and takes Alex’s hand in his own. The suit disappears from his hand as well, allowing him to feel his skin underneath.

Jackson: Michael’s heart is being consumed by anger, which I don’t blame him for… But vengeance is not the solution to this problem. There are no winners with revenge.

Alex: I know, but what else can we do? You saying we shouldn’t kill Wilfre?

Jackson: No, I’m saying only you can kill Wilfre… and save Jason.

Alex: What? I don’t understand.

Jackson: I don’t know what that creature was, but I do know that wasn’t Jason. Jason was an empty shell that had all life ripped from him by his horrible parents, and now that… thing has taken over… If there’s anything left of Jason that can be rescued, you have to save him… by killing Wilfre.

Alex: But Jackson… He killed May Li, I don’t think there’s any part of Jason left.

Jackson: The crazy thing is, despite all the horrible things he’s done, I still love him. I may be a fool for saying so, but that’s just how I feel. He will always be my child, as will you…

The more he spoke the harder it was getting for Jackson to keep himself stable. All those words took a lot out of him, forcing him to cough up a lot of blood. The heart monitor he was hooked up started beeping at a faster rhythm. Alex could sense that the end was near.

Alex: Jackson!

Alex’s mask and glove quickly reforms as he turns around, desperately attempting to call for assistance, but Jackson stops him by grabbing his arm and pulling him closer so he could whisper what may be his final words.

Jackson: Don’t ever let Wilfre poison the friendship you and Jason shared… Save him, Alex… Save Jason…

His whispers were a little difficult to make out from the way he was stuttering, but it was enough for Alex to understand what he wanted him to do. Alex looks into his eyes with tears building up in his own and responds with a single nod. It was hard to spot, but Alex could swear he saw a hint of a smile creeping through the corners of his mouth. It looked like Jackson was at piece with his answer and could now finally let go of the life he was barely clinging onto.

His grip on Alex’s arm loosens and his body goes limp as he exhaled his last breath. The heart monitor flatlines, announcing to everyone in the area that Jackson Hills, former medical officer of Aegis and beloved owner of Hillside House orphanage had passed away.

Alex broke down and clung to his body, hugging him tightly as he buried his face into his chest, muffling out his pain-filled weeping. Violet carefully approached Alex and hugs him from behind. Though a little startled at first, he accepted the kind gesture and let her warmth envelop his back.

Michael glanced back at him over his right shoulder and shared his pain. He felt he was on the verge of tears as well. Fortunately, Chase was there to comfort him by pulling him into a soothing hug.

A while later the three of them were back to sitting together alone away from the orphanage, needing some space from all the misery that occurred over there. They watched in silence as the cleanup crew were carrying away all the dead monsters that hadn’t been disintegrated by the Chaos Blast as well as collecting Jackson’s body but not until Chase gets one last look at his face before they completely seal the body bag. He gently puts his hand over his eyes, closing the lids before ordering the men to take him away and ensure he gets a proper burial.

The children were also being safely moved to a secure location where they can hopefully get some rest, though after everything they’ve been through, no one doubts they’ll get any for the rest of the night knowing Wilfre is still out there and could make his next move when they least expect it.

Michael: Wilfre will pay for this! Somehow, I’ll find a way to kill him!

Chaos Man: Jason is our friend, Jackson said-

Michael: Jason is dead! Wilfre killed him! All he is to me now is another monster that must be put down, like a rabid dog!

Alex wasn’t happy with what he said, but he knows he shouldn’t hold it against him. But he also shouldn’t let him focus on the rage inside him or else he may end up doing something reckless.

Chaos Man: You’re right, he has to be stopped. But we both know that only I can fight him.

Michael: Except we can’t just “stop him.” We need to kill him! And let’s face it, Alex, you don’t have what it takes to do that, only I do. I’ve been trained to kill monsters.

Chaos Man: Except Wilfre’s no ordinary monster. All your weapons are useless against him and his shadow demons. You said yourself you only barely managed to escape with a flash bang, and that didn’t even kill them, only disperse them long enough for you to grab Jackson and run. Face it, Michael, I’m the only one who can actually harm him.

Michael: Hmph, then I’ll just have to find something else that can hurt him… What about that guy you live with- what’s his name? Omnius? He’s gotta have something I can use against them.

Chaos Man: Omnius? But he said I shouldn’t bring outsiders to his home.

Michael: You heard what he said, it’ll be the end of the fucking world if we don’t stop him! Whatever bullshit rules your mentor has, I don’t give a shit! You’re taking me up there right fucking now!

Chaos Man: Okay okay, Jesus! Tone down the swearing please, Michael. Violet’s still sitting next to us y’know.

For a moment there, Michael had actually forgotten that Violet was with them the entire time. He lets go of Chaos Man’s shoulders and takes a step back, looking slightly sheepish.

Michael: Uh… s-sorry, Vi, I kinda forgot you were there…

Violet: It’s fine. I’m an Irish girl who lives in a pub, I’ve heard worse.

That reply was enough to force a light chuckle out of Michael, but he didn’t let that distract them from the main topic at hand. Although Omnius told Alex to never reveal the location of his monastery to anyone there were bigger things happening now than rules. Surely Omnius will understand once they explain the situation.

The two of them prepare to leave as soon as Michael finishes explaining to Chase what he plans to do and where he’s going. Alex uses this time to spend a little more of it with Violet after the fear of losing her had subsided. There was so much he wanted to say to her but very little time to say them.

Chaos Man: …Violet, in case something happens to me, I wanna say-

Violet: Nothings going to happen to you, I know you’re gonna make it back to me in one piece. Whatever you think has to be said can wait till after you saved the world.

Chaos Man: Are you sure?

Violet: Alex, I already know what you’re planning to say, but now is not the time for it given the situation we’re in.

Chaos Man: Yeah, I guess you’re right. We’ll put a pin in it for now.

Michael: Alex, c’mon let’s go.

Chaos Man: Coming!

But before Chaos Man could pick up his friend once more and fly away, Violet grabs his wrist and, without warning, pulls him in closer so that she can kiss him on the lips, shocking him at first. But Alex relaxes his nerves and returns the kiss while cupping her cheek. Michael rolls his eyes at their display of affection, wondering why now of all times did she feel was appropriate to do so. When they break it off Alex was left stunned with his cheeks blushing bright red under his dark blue mask.

Violet: For good luck.

Chaos Man: So, what I wanted to say wasn’t appropriate right now but that was?

Violet: I just… couldn’t hold it in any longer, hehe… See ya around, Chaos Man.

Alex giggled like a fool as he gave her one last wave before picking Michael up and blasting off into the sky, leaving Violet, Chase and everyone else behind.

Michael: What the hell did I just watch? That was the most sickeningly sweet thing I’ve ever seen.

Mercer said with a teasing grin, gently thumping Alex on the shoulder with a fist.

Chaos Man: Shut up, man. It was our first kiss, I just didn’t see it coming.

Michael: You hadn’t kissed yet?!

He suddenly blurted out as he looked at him in bewilderment.

Michael: You two have been dating for months! How have you not kissed after all that time until now? What are you, Christian?!

Chaos Man: Hey! Both of us wanted to strengthen our friendship first before committing to a full-time relationship. If that makes me a loser in your eyes then I don’t care, she was worth the wait… Oh, by the way, you owe me £20.

Michael: £20?! For what?

Chaos Man: Remember, when we were kids, we made a bet on which one of us would get to kiss a girl first. Whoever wins gets £20 from the loser.

Michael: Ah shit! I completely forgot about that! Oh, well… how do you know I didn’t beat you to it?

Chaos Man: If you had you would’ve brought it up way earlier, like when we reunited at the pub. Don’t worry, dude, you can pay me after we’ve saved the world.

Michael: (deep sigh) Well shit.

Miles outside New London high up in the mountain things were much calmer, all the noise from the city hadn’t even reached this far north. Yet Omnius was already aware of all the chaos and alarm that was going on at the centre of it all. He was currently sitting crosslegged on his porch with a circle of candles around him. His body was still, his breathing was steady, and his eyes were closed. He put himself into a deep meditative state to see what was going on not just in the present, but also the future.

Everything had transpired exactly as he’d foreseen since the moment Jason took possession of the scepter. The assassination of those who wronged him, the monster breakout, the attack on the orphanage, even right now when Alex touched down in the grounds a few feet in front of him, seeking his guidance.

Once his feet were set firmly on the ground again Michael took a good long look at his surroundings. He expected Omnius to be an orthodox gentleman, but he didn’t think he’d be this much of a traditionalist. It felt like he’d just stepped through a time portal and is now in feudal era Japan with the old-style shrine building, the stone path and courtyard, and the koi pond to the left with the waterfall and the wooden platform in the centre. Alex revelled in his response, hoping he’d be just as blown away by it as he was, his mask retracting to unveil his true face.

Michael: What is this place? It’s… beautiful.

Alex: This is home. Not what you expected ey?

Michael: Hell no. When you said your mentor lived like a hermit this isn’t what I imagined. Do you even have any technology here?

Alex: Yeah, we have a TV, a radio and wifi, the essentials I need to know what’s going on in the city… Though it did take a lot of convincing, Omnius can be stubborn when it comes to preserving the natural beauty.

Omnius: Because humanity today often forgets how precious something is until it is gone. The same can be said about your friendship with Jason, who has been consumed by darkness.

Alex: So, you know why we’re here.

Omnius: I knew you would come to me eventually in times of need. However, I was not expecting company with you. Who is your friend?

He asked after blowing out the candles simultaneously with a simple swish of his cloak before approaching them.

Alex: Right. Omnius, this is Michael Mercer, we grew up together in the orphanage. Michael, this is Omnius, my guardian and mentor… I know you said I shouldn’t tell anyone about the monastery, but I had no choice…

Omnius raises his hand, silencing Alex and giving him a look of reassurance. He wasn’t in any trouble for bringing an outsider like Michael into his home. He knew there were more pressing things at hand than his rules.

Omnius: It’s alright, Alex, you don’t have to explain yourself. Normally I would never allow a soldier into my sanctuary, but if you trust him, I will make an exception.

Michael: Sir, I just want to say that it’s an honour to finally meet the man who helped create Chaos Man. What you did for Alex was a really good thing, and you don’t have to worry about me. I have no intention of disrespecting you or what you stand for, I’m just a friend offering to help.

He spoke with such admiration that he took both Alex and Omnius by surprise. He extends his right arm out towards the middle-aged man, wishing to greet him properly which he gratefully accepts. Perhaps there was more to Michael than meets the eye.

Omnius: Well then, colour me impressed… Anyway, getting back to the main topic at hand, you two seek my advice on how to defeat Wilfre.

Alex: Yes, Michael insists that he join me in this battle, but his Aegis weapons are useless against him and his shadow demons. We were hoping maybe you could lend him one of your enchanted weapons to give him a fighting chance.

Michael: I understand if you don’t trust me with any of them, but I can’t allow Alex to face this growing threat alone. He’ll need all the help he can get.

There is a pause as Omnius debates on what he should do. He’s right, he doesn’t trust Michael with any of the rare treasures in his possession. Why would he? He only just met him, and being Alex’s friend isn’t enough to ease his conscience. However, he did have a little trick up his sleeve to truly see if Michael has what it takes to wield the kind of weapon he had in mind.

Omnius: Hmm, I may have one specific weapon that can help you, but it isn’t in my power to decide on whether you should use it.

Michael: What does that mean?

Omnius: Follow me inside and I’ll show you.

The wise mentor leads the boys inside the monastery, but before entering he tells them to remove their shoes like how everyone would normally enter a Japanese building. This was all new to Michael. He knew very little about Japan’s customs and regulations, but he at least got the basic principles. Once they enter the building, he was surprised by how little furniture Omnius owned aside from a small coffee table in what he guessed was the living room, the TV, radio and wifi box Alex mentioned, and a couple more essentials. Other than those the place was practically empty. He wondered how Alex was able to live in these conditions. Maybe he’d grown used to it by now.

They soon entered the room that housed Omnius’ entire collection of old weapons, armour and relics. Michael couldn’t believe his eyes, this was a treasure trove of relics from the distant past, and they were all perfectly preserved compared to some of the pieces he saw in the museum. All the blades hanging on the walls looked shiny and new, and the armour was smooth, not a single dent or scratch on it.

Michael: Holy hell! Look at all this stuff! How did Omnius get his hands on all these? And how are they all so brand-new? Ain’t no way in hell he forged these himself, right?

Michael was too busy looking at all the old weapons around him that he wasn’t paying attention to Omnius who was opening up the big glass case next to the cupboard that contained the shiny, ice-blue sword Alex asked him about the day he obtained his first chaos emerald. Upon opening the case the sword started flashing rapidly, almost as if it was reacting with excitement to something, or someone, else.

Alex: Uhh, it’s never done that before, has it?

Omnius: Fascinating… Why him though?

He lightly grasps the sword’s handle and gently lifts it out of its case before turning around to address Michael who only now is aware of the strange glowing blue blade in his hands.

Michael: (whistles) Now that is a fine sword. What kind of blade is that?

Omnius: What I hold in my hands is no ordinary sword. It’s called an Aura Blade, a powerful weapon forged by the gods to dispatch all manner of creatures. There are only eight of them in existence, each blade has a unique power and a name that signifies that power. This one is called Frost Fang.

Michael was so enamoured with the blade that his hand unconsciously reached out to try and grab it only for Omnius to quickly pull his arms back.

Omnius: But I cannot simply give you Frost Fang. It must decide on whether you are worthy of wielding its power. You may be in luck, for it has never reacted like this before, not since it’s previous master first picked it up.

Michael: Um, okay? How will I know if it chooses me?

Omnius: You will hear its voice calling out to you.

He slowly presents the sword to Michael once more, now giving him permission to take it from him and hold it up high. The instant the sword and it’s chosen wielder made physical contact the blade glows a very bright blue, causing Alex and Omnius to shield their eyes. The whole room is bathed in its icy blue light.

Frost Fang undergoes a sudden change as its aura resonates with Michael’s, accepting him as it’s new master for the first time in centuries. The blade itself changes its shape. Ice forms over the tiny, frosted blade until it completely encased it in ice. It only lasted seconds until the ice cracks and shatters into particles, revealing a completely new design for the aura blade. The blade appeared to be bigger, almost the size of Michael himself and the tip was curved at the end. Icicles started forming around the hilt, curving around Micheal’s hand and a few smaller ones formed on the end of the handle. A cold mist appears to be emitting from the blade which is now a sparkling icy-blue, like it was actually made of ice itself.

Frost Fang: At last! A suitable match for my power. It has been hundreds of years since my last master died. It’s a pleasure to meet you, Michael Mercer.

Michael: Gah! Why the fuck is there a voice in my head?!

Alex: Well I’ll be, the sword has accepted you! That’s awesome! Congrats Michael.

Michael: This is really weird; the sword won’t stop talking to me. It keeps going on about how bored it was sitting in that case for years.

Alex: Dude, you fight monsters for a living, there’s a secret military base under your dad’s house and your best friend is Chaos Man. Haven’t you heard of suspension of disbelief?

Michael: Well- Of course I’ve heard of it, I just- I need a little help every now and then!

As they started to bicker Omnius’ eyes drifted outside the window where he noticed something was wrong. The sky was getting dark, and not just because it was currently 3am, but darker than night. It was so dark that the stars have been completely blocked out. Not only that, but the wildlife that share the mountains with him have grown silent.

Omnius: Focus you two, we have bigger problems on our hands. Look outside.

Alex and Michael immediately cease talking and direct their gazes at the window Omnius was pointing at. They too noticed that the night sky had gotten even darker than usual.

Alex and Michael: Wilfre!

They both thought in a synchronised panic as they exited the room and rushed outside, quickly putting their shoes back on before taking a full look at their surroundings. It was hard to spot at first, but they can see now that huge black clouds have formed in the sky above New London and begin spreading outwards in all directions, carrying with it an eerie silence that made them feel uneasy, like a spine-tingling chill was running through their nervous system. What was this feeling? Looking up at the darkened sky was – for reasons they can’t understand – upsetting them.

What they were feeling was the emptiness Jason Dark had felt throughout his entire life as a human being, and now he was sharing his feelings with the rest of the world. Making them feel true despair and loneliness, showing them that there’s no hope of rescue and life isn’t worth living. It was so powerful that even Alex and Michael were able to feel a fraction of it.

Omnius: The darkness is closing in.

But high above the growing darkness stood something so bizarre and twisted as if it had been conjured up by the most unstable of minds. Standing tall atop the dark clouds was a giant, distorted medieval castle. It had the base form of an ordinary castle but with many added features that made it look more like a haunted house. The twisted towers with purple glowing windows from Wilfre’s flames, giving them the appearance of eyes. The front of the castle had an entrance that looked like a mouth with jagged teeth and the drawbridge was its tongue. Some of the towers didn’t hold up a single room like most, they instead held up entire sections like a branch holding up its leaves.

Standing on the balcony of the tallest tower was this world’s first supervillain himself, Wilfre, getting a front row seat to the consumption of New London. Everywhere he looked, he can see buildings, streets and people being consumed by his shadows. Not even the people hiding in their homes were safe from it. The shadows swept over them like a wave of sorrow and despair, draining them of their hope, willpower, joy, and appreciation for life. All they’re feeling now is pure emptiness. They don’t even react to the many hundreds of shadow demons emerging from the shadow-covered ground and roaming around their darkened city devoid of all life.

To everyone bellow it was a pure depression, a horrific fate. But to Wilfre it was glorious. While they were losing their will to go on, he was finally able to feel true joy. It’s as if he was absorbing everything that made them feel human all so he could get a feel for it himself. This was his vision for the end of the world, not with a bang, but with a muffled cry under a blanket of nothingness.

Wilfre: And so ends the age of man, the true monsters of this world. My darkness will spread throughout every corner of this planet, reshaping it in my own image. Every single person down there will feel true despair, they’ll finally understand how I feel. A world without light, without hope… Without Chaos Man. Muhahahahahaha!

To Be Continued