Chapter 3 – Self Control

Alex tosses and turns as he struggles to make himself comfortable in a bed that wasn’t his. Its not that the bed wasn’t comfy, it was just his body wasn’t used to being in a completely different one. That and his body was still in pain from last night. It’s a wonder how he was able to fall asleep at all. His head was pounding like crazy, waking him up at once.

Alex: Ow! My head!

He waited for his headaches to subside before opening his eyes, immediately registering that he wasn’t in his bedroom at the orphanage. It was much bigger and emptier. The only furniture he found was his bed, a cushion and a short table. It all seemed to be Japanese themed with the padded floors and sliding paper doors.

Alex: What happened? Where am I? Japan?

Alex slowly gets out of bed, still wearing his clothes, though they were torn and tattered from the amount of energy surging into and out of him last night.

Alex: What happened to my clothes? … I can’t remember much of what happened last night. Was I in… an accident?

He thought to himself as he reached out to open the sliding door. As he was about to do so, a jolt of energy shocks him as he brushes the back of his free hand against the metal buckle in his jeans, causing a static shock.

Alex: Ow! What the-

Suddenly, more bursts of multicoloured energy started sparking out of his body, causing the boy to scream and collapse to the floor. Until now his mind was still too half-asleep to properly assess his situation. The shock he feels from the energy sure as hell woke him up. The unstable energy started surging from his body again, arcing from him and burning everything it touched, slightly scorching the floor around him.

Alex: What’s happening to me?! Argh! It hurts! IT HURTS!

The robed man who brought him here opens the door quickly in response to his cries and gently places his wooden staff on his chest. The unstable energy starts to calm down and retreat back into his body, allowing Alex to catch his breath and relax. He looks up at the man, unable to get a good look at his face with the shadow of the hood covering it down to his mouth and goatee.

The robed figure picks him up and carries him through the Japanese-themed building and brings him outside. Alex gets a good look at his surroundings and was beyond awestricken with the view. He was on the porch of a giant courtyard of green fields with stones pathways. Various trees and flowers filled the fields. To the right of the house was a large lake with a waterfall flowing from a gap in a mountain side. Everywhere he looked he could see mountains, forming a wall of nature around them, cutting them off from wherever civilisation was.

Alex didn’t know how to respond now. Originally, he was a little afraid of his predicament. Waking up in a stranger’s house far away from home and at the mercy of said stranger. But for some reason, when he saw the beauty and wonder of the location, he’s in. It was like being in a nature reserve, undisturbed by man. He’s never set eyes on something so beautiful until now. Maybe the stranger who lives here doesn’t mean him any harm and is simply a good man who helped him. There weren’t many kind and honest people like that left in the world.

The man gently sets Alex down on an outdoor sofa and takes a seat on the wooden rocking chair next to him. He places his staff against the wall next to him and looks out over his beautiful garden. Alex struggles to shuffle up enough to address his mysterious host. His mouth felt numb from the shocking, but that didn’t stop him from introducing himself.

Alex: Who… Are…You?

Omnius: Save your strength. Your body is still adjusting to the energy. You don’t need to talk right now.

The robed man lowers his hood and finally reveals his face to him. He looked roughly around 37 years old from what Alex could tell. He had long, shoulder length turquoise hair, same colour as his beard, and two different coloured eyes. His right eye was emerald green, and his left was sapphire blue. Underneath his white cloak he was wearing Japanese samurai robes that were coloured white and decorated with cherry blossom petals, and he wore Japanese sandals and white socks.

The mysterious man catches Alex staring and responds by offering him a glass of water with a little smile.

Omnius: Here, drink this. You’re dehydrated.

Alex: Uh, th-thank you.

Omnius: Forgive me for abducting you last night. You looked like you needed help. My name is Omnius.

Alex: Omnius? That’s a unique name. Doesn’t sound Japanese.

Alex thought as he downed the last of the cool, refreshing water.

Alex: I’m-

Omnius: Alex Laytham. Yes, I know you are. I have been watching you for some time.

Alex: What?! Wait a minute…

Alex’s mind goes back to after the incident with Badger in New London. When he was walking Violet home, he noticed something strange out the corner of his eye but wasn’t able to properly register what it was. Now he seemed to have figured it out.

Alex: I thought I saw something. You were the man I saw in town the other day.

Omnius nods in response, not even trying to deny that he’d been following him.

Alex: Why were you following me? Are you a stalker or something?

Omnius: Think of me as a seer. I have been seeing visions of you the last few days. I wasn’t sure why at first, but now I do. It is because of that giant gem that fell from the heavens and landed in the fields far from your home.

Alex: Gem? Oh! I remember now! That meteor that crashed last night. I touched it and it electrocuted me! Even now I can still feel it coursing through my veins… What happened to me, Omnius?

Omnius: When you made contact with the emerald you absorbed its energy. Now it is flowing freely within you, changing your DNA structure, trying to adjust to its new host.

Alex: Host? Me?

Omnius: Yes. You have inherited a power unlike any other in the whole universe. A power that poses a danger to you and those around you unless you learn to control it. I can help you do that.

Alex: I have powers?! Like a superhero?

Omnius: In a way, yes. I brought you here knowing the authorities will inevitably track the trajectory of the emerald. The power you possess must never fall into the wrong hands.

Alex: Wow! This feels familiar to how Captain Cosmic got started. This is starting to feel like my superhero origin story. Awesome!

Alex practically jumps back onto his feet in excitement over this revelation. He didn’t even acknowledge the pain his body was in moments ago. But it quickly faded once he realised that it was daylight, and he wasn’t home. Jackson must be worried sick about him. He needed to get home.

Alex: Listen, Omnius, it was nice meeting you and I appreciate you helping me, but I need to get home and fast. Jackson’s probably wondering where I am.

Omnius: True. But I can’t let you leave with all that energy coursing through your body. You could harm others. I will accompany you, make sure you return safely.

Alex: I would like that a lot. Not exactly sure where the exit is, so it’s not like I could’ve gotten far on my own.

Omnius: Follow me.

Omnius stands up, picks up his staff, and takes Alex’s hand as he guides him across the fields of flowers and towards the entrance to a cave. It was pitch black with the only light coming from the other entrance.

They emerged from the cave and are greeted by the vast overlook of the land lying at the bottom of the mountain peek. Alex spots New London far off in the distance in front of him. Separating the gap between the mountains and the city were vast fields of green. Alex couldn’t believe anyone would be lucky enough to live somewhere where you’d get a view like that every day.

Alex: You live in the mountains?

Omnius: I prefer to live amongst nature rather than that loud, filthy, dead patch of land you call a city.

Alex looks at him with confusion. He’s unsure why Omnius didn’t like New London, but now wasn’t the time to ask. He still had to get home as fast as he can. The only problem was that New London was miles away and there was no sign of a car or helicopter. This led him to wonder how Omnius carried him all the way here in a single night. Walking a distance that large would take days at least, and that’s without making occasional stops.

Alex: How are we gonna get back home? We’re miles away from New London. Plus, the orphanage is on the other side of the of the city. Do you have a car or something?

Omnius: I don’t. But I have other ways of getting us there.

He points Alex down and northeast toward a herd of wild horses running free in one of the open fields.

Alex: Horses? Cars have more then ten times the horsepower they’ve got.

Omnius: They may be slower than a car, but they are friendlier to the environment. I’m afraid it’s the only option we have… Climb onto my back.

Alex does as he’s told without questioning why nows the best time to be given a piggyback ride. Though he is impressed this man was able to lift him up like he weighs nothing. Until he decided to do something very dangerous. Jump over the edge of the cliff and start sliding down the mountain side, kicking up loose stones and dust as he went. Alex tightens his hold around Omnius’ neck out of fear.

Alex: AHHHH! ARE YOU CRAZY?!

Omnius: You said you needed to get home fast, so I am taking the fastest route down.

Alex: I’M NOT IN THAT MUCH OF A HURRY!

He screams all the way down whilst Omnius showed no signs of fear. He stepped so lightly and with such precision until he reached the bottom. Alex continued to scream until he it clicked with him that they’re safely down. Omnius sets him down on his ass and walks over towards the approaching horses. Alex could still feel his heart beating rapidly from the adrenaline as he clutched his chest.

Alex: Oh! My! God! That was awful!

He takes a couple of deep breaths to regain his composure as he watches Omnius commune with the horses. Normally wild animals would flee in panic at the sight of humans. But these horses just stood there and looked at him curiously as he closed the distance. He stood a few feet apart from the herd and held out his left hand. One of the horses – a black one with brown spots and a golden mane – trotted his way and nuzzles his hand, allowing the middle-aged man to pet its head.

The horse then follows him back to Alex, who stands to attention and addresses Omnius.

Alex: How did you do that?

Omnius: I simply asked him to help give us a ride home and he agreed. Many people don’t realise this, but animals understand humans better than people understand themselves… Get on.

Omnius helps Alex get on the horse’s back before climbing up himself in front of him. He didn’t even order the horse to move by lightly kicking its side or pulling its mane. The horse simply stood up on its hind legs, let loose a proud whinny, and raced down the fields. Alex wraps his arms around Omnius’ waist while he was only gently grasping the horse’s hair.

The horse soon reached the road and merged with traffic without a shred of fear of getting hit by a speeding car. The people driving their cars notice them and couldn’t believe their eyes. A couple of kids in the backseat of the car in front of them press their faces against the back window to get a proper look with wide-eyed expressions.

Omnius greets them with a warm smile and a wave whilst Alex embarrassingly gives them a little wave of the hand.

Alex: Who is this man? How does he know so much about what’s happening to me, or this alien energy? And did he actually just ask the horse for help? …This is gonna be a very weird day. No idea how I’m gonna explain this to Jackson and Jason. Heck, Michael would’ve had a hard time believing it… Hmm, I wonder what Michael’s new life with his dad has in store for him. It can’t be as weird as this, right?

Michael’s first day as an Aegis soldier started very early in the morning. He was still deep asleep in his new bed in the spare bedroom. It felt much comfier than the ones at the orphanage and he didn’t have to share a room with one of the other boys anymore. Chase had prepared this bedroom just for him in the hopes he’d come back. Though the room itself was fairly standard with white walls, grey curtains and a green carpet floor. Occupied with a double bed, a side table. A flat screen TV hanging on the wall and a wardrobe for his clothes.

Chase lightly cracks the door open to check on his son, still slumbering away. The last time he’d seen him sleeping was when he was five years old in a room decorated with wolves. He had an obsession with them for a while. For all he knew he may still have.

As much as he would love to spend the whole day with him, doing what fathers and sons do together, his duty to mould him into a soldier must come first. Michael agreed to train under him no matter what the cost, so he needed to treat him as he would all cadets. He must treat him the same as everybody else or risk showing favouritism in the eyes of his men. The general shakes his sons’ shoulder and gently whispers into his ear.

Chase: Michael… It’s time to get up.

Michael stirs and mumbles barely understandable words in his sleep.

Michael: Mmm… five more minutes, Dad.

Chase: Okay, you can sleep as long as you want.

Michael: Mmm, thanks…

Chase: CADET MERCER, ON YOUR FEET NOW!

Chase suddenly yelled at the top of his voice with the utmost authority, startling Michael awake and forcing him to stumble out of bed and falls to the floor. He quickly picks himself up and stands at attention, saluting his father all dressed up in his general’s uniform. He felt underdressed with no shirt and his boxer shorts and socks on compared to him.

Michael: I’m up! I’m up, sir!

Chase: First lesson about becoming a soldier of Aegis, Son. He must always awaken before the city does. They must be ready to deal with threats 24/7. That means no more sleeping in!

Michael: Aw, come on! That’s not fair!

Chase: Life isn’t fair, Michael. The world learned that the hard way. Remember that you said you would do anything to become a soldier. Are you already regretting your decision?

Michael: Fuck no! I’m fully committed!

Chase: Let’s hope you can maintain that mentality when it gets tough. Now get dressed, we’re going down to Aegis HQ.

Michael: You mean the basement?

Chase: Yes, I mean the basement.

Michael: Now?

Chase: Yes, now. GET MOVING, SOLDIER!

Michael: Gah-! SIR, YES SIR!

Michael scurries to the wardrobe and panics as he pulls out the cadet uniform. Chase chuckled to himself in the background. He felt a little bad for yelling at him, but he needed to know how serious this training will be and give him an example of how hard working for Aegis is going to be.

Chase: Sorry, Son. I wish I had the luxury to be more of a father than a general. For now at least, I can’t afford to go easy on you.

Once dressed, Michael follows Chase into his study, down the elevator and enters Aegis headquarters. Everybody below their observation balcony was hard at work, performing drills, checking equipment and training newcomers.

Chase: Remember, Michael, while we’re here you will address me as “General” or “Sir.” The others need to know that you will be going through the same hardships they’ve been through when they started. No shortcuts or special treatment. Only when we’re home can you call me “Dad.”

Michael: Ok, I understand Da- Sir.

Chase then leads Michael down the stairs to their left to the ground floor of the base. He gives him a full tour of the facilities. Many of the staff were surprised by Chase’s presence and how he’s personally guiding a new recruit around instead of instructing one of his drill sergeants. Michael notices several people murmuring to each other and can sense that he was the topic of discussion. He started to notice that there aren’t a lot of people around his age here. Most of the soldiers and staff were middle-aged or in their twenties to thirties. Maybe he was an exception to some rule that you need to be a certain age before you can be trained.

Throughout the tour Michael made mental notes of the various sectors. The ones that caught his eye the most were the weapons testing areas and a prison for captured monsters. He wondered why Aegis would have such a place if their goal is to eliminate all monsters.

Michael: Da- I mean, General. Permission to speak?

Chase: Granted. What troubles you?

Michael: I noticed that Aegis has a monster containment area. I can’t help but wonder why Aegis would imprison some of them when the logical choice would be to kill them.

Chase: Ah yes. That facility is mostly run by scientists from Magna Tech who wish to study them. Its purpose is to help us understand their biology and develop more efficient ways to kill them whilst keeping damage to a manageable level.

Michael: I see. That makes sense.

They continue walking until Chase brings him to the command centre of the base. The room was hexagonal in shape. Several large monitors hung against the walls and technicians were typing away on their computers at the desks littered around the room. In the middle of the command centre was a deck with only a chair and a small desk in the middle. It acted as an observation deck for the general to oversee everything going on in Aegis.

Michael noticed that the walls were decorated with the same symbols he saw some of the soldiers donning on their shoulders. The symbols were three animal heads facing the left within a shield. A wolf, a lion and an eagle. There was still one wall left blank. Michael wondered if it’s a design flaw or if there may be plans for a fourth squad in the future.

Chase: …And this is the Command Centre. This is where we monitor monster activity and keep a watchful eye on any other possible threats to our planet.

Michael: Cool… What do these symbols mean?

Chase: These represent the three main squads, each one with a distinct role to play. Eagle Squad. Their job is to maintain order in this world by acting as the protectors of countries that have no Aegis base to protect them. It’s why there’s very few of them here. Lion Squad serves as the personal guard to the King and the other world leaders of the council. Keeping them safe and secure is their top priority. And finally, Wolf Squad. Their purpose is to venture into monster-infested lands, exterminate them and reclaim the lands they’ve taken. As well as kill any monsters from the war still in hiding.

Michael: Wait! There are still monsters in our world? I thought you said they were all sent back to their home world.

Chase: The majority of the monsters have been sent back, but a handful of them are still trapped on Earth, increasing their numbers with each passing day. Whenever we find them, we destroy them… Michael, I’m gonna let you in on a little secret that only Aegis knows… The Monster War was not humanity’s first introduction to the species as a whole.

Michael: What?! It’s not?!

Chase: Truth is monsters have existed on Earth for thousands of years. How they came into this world without a portal is still unknown, but the old military did everything in their power to hide all evidence from the public. And for a while it worked, until that day.

Michael: Now everyone knows they exist. Is it possible somebody created those monsters?

Chase: Possibly. Maybe back in those days when magic was still a thing. But magic has long been extinct since the Middle Ages. If the older monsters were conjured by magic, then they’ll have to be hundreds of years old.

Michael: Magic? You saying it actually exists?

Chase: Not anymore it doesn’t. But there was once a time when it did, and there were people who used it for nefarious purposes, such as creating monsters. That’s why it had to be wiped out.

Michael: Wiped out? By whom?

Chase: A question for another day. It’s not something to delve into right now… Anyway, on with the tour.

The general and his son exit the command centre and head down towards the training area. Michael, however, couldn’t hold back on what he just heard. Magic once existed in their world and was harnessed by mankind. Many people today like him didn’t think magic was real, maybe that’s what the government wanted them to believe. If Chase says it was real once, then it had to be true. Though he believed it to be extinct, Michael wondered if there’s a chance it may still exist.

On the way to the training area Michael passes by a soldier piloting a mech suit. He greeted him with a wave, but the pilot brushes him off with a scowl and walks away.

Michael: Rude... What’s his problem?

Chase: Some people here take their jobs too seriously. Most of the new recruits are here for the same reason as you. Revenge… Some of them lose themselves in the process.

Michael: I won’t let that happen to me.

Chase: That’s what they all say… That’s what I said one time.

He thought to himself. He almost dived too deep into the depths of his mind to reminisce on one of the darkest moments in his career as a soldier. Fortunately, Michael snapped him out of it when he asked him if he was alright. Chase clears his throat and avoids the question by bringing up Michael’s training.

Chase: You will be joining the Training Squad to see if you are soldier material. Once you’ve completed the training and proved your worth, you will be able to choose which squad to join.

Michael: I’m ready, Sir. Where do I start?

Chase: In here.

Chase guides Michael through the training area and brings him to the combat training arena. As he opens the door their ears pick up the faint sounds of grunts and thumps.

Inside they see a bunch of soldiers sparring each other with hand-to-hand combat. There were five male soldiers working together to take down the only female in the group. They all wore white vests and camo trousers and black boots. Michael was impressed by the woman’s fighting moves. She can easily predict a strike and counter it without breaking a sweat. All five men ended up winded on the floor while she stood over them as the superior fighter as she ran her fingers through her short black hair.

Michael: Whoa, she’s good.

Chase: Yeah, she is. One of my best soldiers. That is Alice Magna, the leader of Wolf Squad and your new instructor.

Michael: Magna? As in Magna Tech? The company who pretty much rebuilt the whole city in less the time it would have taken after the war ended. That Magna?

Chase: Correct. She’s the founder and CEO’s daughter. She was supposed to be the next head of the company, but she refused it. She came to us because she wanted to help people herself rather than have robots do it for her. I offered to train her here at Aegis and now she’s become one of my best.

Michael: …You know her father personally, don’t you?

Chase: What makes you think that?

Michael: There’s no way she’d be here unless her dad gave her his blessing to be a soldier, right?

Chase: Very observant of you, Son. Yes, I do know Richard. He and I go way back. Known each other since secondary school. By working together, we managed to bring this city back from the brink and made it greater than ever. We were even offered places on the council for our heroic deeds.

Michael: Wow. My dad is a famous war hero. That’s pretty much what every kid wants their old man to be.

Chase: I may be famous… but I’m no hero.

Before Michael was about to question what he meant by that, Chase instantly dodges the topic and asks Alice to come over to meet Michael. Alice drinks some water from her canteen first before addressing her general with a respectful salute.

Alice: Hello General. Who’s the fresh meat?

Chase: This is my son, Michael. He’s training to become a soldier.

Alice: Really? He doesn’t look like you.

Michael: Nice to meet you, Alice. Nice moves earlier. You kicked some ass.

Michael complimented as he extends his hand towards her. Alice lightly chuckles and shakes his hand.

Alice: Hmm… I’m starting to see some resemblance between you two. You sure sound like your father. Maybe you’ll do okay here.

Chase: Well, that’s for you to decide since you will be training him.

Alice: Me? Why me, sir?

Chase: You are a captain. But before that you were just a lost soul angry at the monsters, just like Michael is. Learning under someone who went through the same hardships as you will help him reach his true potential faster. I want the best for my son, and that’s you.

Alice glances over at Michael and looks him over from head to toe. In her opinion he didn’t look soldier material, but neither did she when she first joined. The general gave her a chance to prove herself, its only fair she does the same for his son.

Alice: I’ll do my best, sir.

Michael: I will too.

Chase: I know you will. Michael, this is where we part ways for now. I’ve got to get back to my duties. I leave you in Alice’s capable hands. Now get to it, you two.

Michael and Alice: Yes sir!

Chase: Hehehe, Dismissed.

Chase turns his back to them and leaves the training area. As soon as he was gone Michael turns to Alice and asks when they start training, only to be suddenly grabbed by the older teen and pinned to the floor with his left arm bend backwards. Michael grunts in pain and begs her to let him up.

Alice: You let your guard down so easily. We’ve got a long road ahead of us, Lil’ Mercer.

Michael: Did you have to slam me down so hard?!

Alice: Yes. Our enemies won’t be taking it easy on you either. Now get up and let's try again.

Michael groans as he rubs his sore arm as he stood back up. Chase looked back at the two of them and smiled. He had faith in Michael’s will to carry on. He didn’t raise him as much as his mother did, but he knows he’s not a quitter. Whatever techniques Alice has planned for him he was looking forward to seeing what kind of soldier Michael will become. But he still has a long way to go before he can reach that goal.

Tuesday, June 20th, 12 o’ clock. Midday at the Hillside House Orphanage.

It was lunchtime for the younger children. The older kids preferred to eat their food outside. They were all sitting around the dining room table waiting in anticipation for Jackson’s asian female co-worker to serve them plates of turkey and mayonnaise sandwiches.

Kid 1: I love turkey sandwich day.

Kid 2: I prefer Thursdays. That’s when we get bacon butties.

As the co-worker places the last of the plates down, she counts the number of empty seats. Three of them she knew belonged to Zack and his two friends. But there were six seats left unfilled. Two of them belonged to Jason and Michael. Jason was still in his room, hiding. And Michael had left with his father. But Alex’s whereabouts were still unknown, and poor Jackson had been worrying for him this whole time. She could still hear him yelling at the police over the phone, desperate to get him back.

Jackson: …You know what?! Just forget it! Your stupid robots don’t understand how crucial time is when a child is missing! They’re fucking machines!

Kid 3: May Li, Jackson said a swear.

May Li: I know, honey. He’s just worried about Alex. He’s still missing.

She and the kids were startled by the loud bang of Jackson slamming the office phone down, hanging up on the cops. He takes a few deep breaths to calm himself before heading back into the dining room.

Jackson: Sorry you had to listen to that, May Li.

May Li: No no, you’re right to be mad. One of our kids is missing and they’re acting like it’s not a big enough deal.

Jackson: Ever since The Monster War everything non-monster related isn’t a big enough deal. This damn society… Hey, where’s Jason?

May Li: He’s still in his room. He hasn’t moved from his bed since he’d found out Alex went missing. I brought up his lunch, but he wouldn’t even look at me. It’s like I don’t exist. When I asked him to talk to me, he growled at me like a wild animal.

Jackson: You’re still new here. There’s a lot you don’t know about some of these kids. Jason’s been going through some hard times. Maybe even harder than the others. He’s stressed because he’s worried for his only friend, that’s all.

May Li leads Jackson out into the hallway to get out of earshot of the children but still keep them in their field of vision in case somebody misbehaves.

May Li: Jackson, my wife is a therapist who specialises helping people with disabilities. Maybe we should consider sending Jason to her so she can help him.

Jackson: We’ve been over this before. Jason doesn’t need a therapist; you know how he acts when in the presence of a stranger.

May Li: Oh, I know. You should see the way he looks at me… I care about these kids as much as you do and only want to help Jason. Can you at least think about it?

Jackson sighs deeply and takes a moment to think about it. He then heads to the kitchen, opens the fridge and pulls out jug of semi-skimmed milk. He pours it into a black cup with a picture of a skull on it. He then picks out a couple cookies from the biscuit tin and puts them on a plate next to the glass. He plans to bring them up to Jason himself and hopefully get him to open up.

May Li: I hate that glass.

Jackson: It’s his favourite. He won’t drink from any other… Look, I’ll think more on this later. I’m going up and talk to him now. I’m not a stranger, so he won’t push me away. You keep watch over the others and let me know immediately if any word on Alex’s whereabouts reaches us.

May Li lowers her eyes to the floor as she nods. A sense of relief washes over her knowing that she didn’t have to face Jason again. Truth was she was secretly afraid of him. He was beyond any other disturbed child she’d met. She can’t help but feel there’s something evil lurking within him. Like he’s possessed by the devil or something.

In the stillness of his bedroom, Jason is sitting alone on his bed looking outside his window, trying to spot Alex coming down the streets from either side. His look of worry grew stronger with each passing second. It had been hours since Alex had been reported missing and nothing had been done about it. And it happened on the same day Michael left with Chase. He started to believe he was the reason he’s gone. That he’s cursed to be alone forever.

The lunch that May Li had brought him earlier was still sitting on the side table untouched. He didn’t feel like eating even though his stomach was grumbling like crazy, desperate to be filled. But his mind spoke louder than his gut and was constantly flooded with possible scenarios on what has happened to Alex. Like multiple voices were chatting away in his head, coming out as gibberish.

But the voices were blissfully silenced by the sudden knocks on his door by Jackson.

Jackson: Jason, it’s Jackson. Can I come in please?

Jason: Is May Li with you?

Jackson: No, it’s just me, I promise.

Jason: …Come in.

He quietly muttered, but Jackson managed to pick up on what he said and opens the door with the hand holding the plate of cookies, trying so hard to keep them on the plate whilst turning the handle. As he walks in, he sees Jason still staring out the window with his back turned to him. He then spots the uneaten sandwiches still in the same spot they were served in.

Jackson: You still haven’t eaten your lunch yet?

Jason: Not hungry.

Jackson: Well, maybe you’ll be hungry for cookies. They’re chocolate chip, fresh out of the tin.

Jason looks back over his right shoulder to get a good look at them and practically drools at the sight of them. He shuffles himself off the edge of the bed, trying to reach out and grab them, but Jackson moves his arms back at the last second, almost spilling the milk.

Jackson: I’ll only give these to you if you eat your lunch first.

Jason: Ugh, fine!

He backs away from Jackson and starts ravenously devouring the sandwich like a predator tearing into the carcass of its dead prey. He didn’t even bother savouring the flavour of his food. He was in a hurry to finish it so he can get the treats he was promised.

Jackson decided to look past Jason’s animalistic behaviour and sits down on the bed next to him. At least he was eating again, that’s all that mattered.

Jackson: What’s wrong, Jason? You haven’t left your room all day. Are you still worried about Alex?

Jason says nothing in response. He didn’t even bother looking at Jackson and moves on to the plate of cookies now that he’s finished his sandwiches.

Jackson: Please, Jason, talk to me. You’ve been ignoring May Li all day. Don’t push me away too. You know you can trust me. I’ve raised you since you were five. If there’s anyone you can turn to if you’re feeling down, it’s me.

Jason finishes his current mouthful and gently places the half-eaten cookie back on the plate. He finally speaks for the first time today, but his eyes remain fixed on the floor.

Jason: Alex abandoned me, just like Michael did. That’s why he you haven’t found him, isn’t it?

Jackson: No no no no no, that’s not what happened. Alex is only missing. If he ran away, he would’ve left us a note telling us so…

He lightly grabs Jason’s shoulders and forces him to turn around to face him and look right into his eyes.

Jackson: I don’t know what was going through that boy’s mind, thinking it was a good idea to wander off in the night. But I know for a fact that we’ll see him again… I’m just as worried about him as you are, but you can’t let this get you down. Would Alex want you to be miserable in your room all day?

Jason: …No.

Jackson: Exactly. He would want you to be at your best for when he returns, and I do mean “when.” Because he will be back.

A tiny smile forms on Jason’s face. He needed to hear that. Jackson pulls him into a warm hug and Jason embraces him back. He doesn’t often experience an act of true love from a family member. He never knew what it felt like to be loved, to be wanted. It’s normal for everyone else, but it was a strange feeling for him.

Jason soon finishes his cookies and milk after breaking off the hug and hands the empty plates to Jackson.

Jackson: You don’t have to come down right away, but please do when you feel ready, okay?

Jason: Okay, Jackson. And I’ll try not to think about Alex until he’s home.

Jackson nods with a smile and leaves the room. He heads back downstairs, leaving Jason alone once again, but not for long. The door swings open hard and reveals one of the teenage orphans – around Jason and Alex’s age – standing in his doorway. Jason could tell by the shape of the shadow reflected on his wall that it was Zack, one of the kids bullying him.

Zack: Hey, Freak! Still worried about your boyfriend?

Jason: Go away, Zack! Leave me alone!

Zack: Oh? And what if I don’t?

Jason: I’ll… I’ll make you get out!

Zack: How? By growling at me like you did with May Li? You think that makes you scary? It just makes you look like a pussy, which is fitting, the way you sounded like a scaredy cat.

Jason growls and stands up from his bed, staring angrily at Zack who proceeded to laugh at his attempt to be intimidating. Jason then made an effort to throw a punch at him, remembering some of the moves Michael showed him. But he hesitated and panicked as he moved in for the attack.

Zack casually stands to the side to dodge his slow, weak punch and responded with a quick one of his own to the gut, winding Jason and forcing him onto his knees.

Zack: You’re so pathetic. You think you can take me on, except you can’t do anything without Michael or Alex to protect you. You wanna know why?

He asked rhetorically as he threw another right hook across Jason’s face, knocking him further onto the floor.

Zack: It’s because you’re a weak, pathetic excuse for a human being. No ordinary person would do the things you do every day. I mean, what kid wants to play the monster instead of the superhero? Are you that thick in the head?! You are a wimp, Jason. And do you know what happens to wimps like you?

He then starts kicking him in the back a few times whilst continuing to torment him. Jason curls up into a ball and wraps his arms around his legs, trying to drown out his abuse.

Zack: They get crushed by the strong!

As soon as he was done kicking him, Zack grabs Jason by the hair and forces him back onto his knees again. He slowly reels his right arm back, ready to punch him some more until he was interrupted by a familiar voice coming to Jason’s rescue.

Alex: Leave him alone!

Zack relaxes his arm and glance back at the doorway and is greeted by the sudden appearance of Alex Laytham, and he looked pissed.

Zack: Oh, you’re back. I thought you ran away.

Alex: I told Jason I would never leave him, and I always keep my promises. Now I’m gonna ask you again. Leave. Him. Alone.

Zack: Or what? You gonna get Michael to kick my ass again? Or were you planning on doing that yourself?

Alex says nothing and continues to glare at Zack. Annoyed, the bully lets go of Jason and approaches Alex. He’ll just have to give him a beating instead. He was waiting for Alex to put up some kind of defence, but he did no such thing. He was just standing completely still, like he’s waiting for him to hit him.

Zack does just that and throws a mean left hook across Alex’s head. But something was off about it. The punch landed but it didn’t even faze Alex. He didn’t even flinch from it. And on top of that, Zack was the one grunting in pain. He hit Alex so hard that he somehow hurt his own hand before he could hurt him. Like he’d just punched a stone wall.

Zack: What the hell?!

Alex: That all you got? Come on, hit me again. As hard as you can.

Zack growls in anger and knees Alex in the stomach with full force. But again, he felt nothing from it and Zack ended up on his ass clasping his injured knee. Jason this whole time just stood there dumbfounded by what he was witnessing. It was like watching Zack fighting a statue… and losing.

Jason: … Alex?

Alex then grabs Zack by his shirt collar and then, to Zack and Jason’s utter surprise, lifts the bully single handedly off the floor and holds him as high as he can. Zack flailed about, trying to escape, but Alex’s grip on him was ridiculously strong like a vice. He couldn’t break free no matter how much he struggled.

Zack: What is this shit?! Put me down, ya freak!

Jackson quickly rushes up the stairs at the first sign of trouble and shares the same reaction as Jason once he sees Alex holding Zack off the floor.

Jackson: Enough of this! Alex, release him!

Alex slowly lowers Zack down until his feet touch the ground before letting him go. Terrified by what just happened, he runs out of the room, pushes past Jackson and bolts down the stairs. The middle-aged black man had difficulty processing everything that just happened. First, he and May Li see Alex riding into their front garden with a man dressed like a samurai on a wild horse, acting like his disappearance meant nothing, and now this. He never would have believed Alex had a huge increase in strength had he not just seen it with his own eyes. He had some serious explaining to do.

As much as he wanted to bombard the boy with endless questions regarding his whereabouts, he had to be the responsible adult and act accordingly. The man who brought him home is probably explaining everything to May Li in the office.

Jackson: I don’t know what that was just now, but I’ll just have to add it the list of reasons why you’re grounded.

Alex: What?! Grounded again?

Jackson: Yes! For leaving the house in the middle of the night and not calling me to let us know you were okay! And for what you just did now. How did you even get so strong?

Alex: Crap, maybe I went a bit too far with Zack… Uh… I’ve been working out in the gym

Jackson: We don’t have a gym.

Alex: I- I mean I was-

May Li: Jackson! That man who brought Alex home is leaving now, but he said he’d like to talk with you first!

Jackson: Be right down! You don’t go anywhere, and this time I mean it! You hear me?!

Alex: Yes sir.

Jackson strolls back down the stairs, leaving Alex alone to explain things with Jason. He was still blown away by the impressive feats he’d just demonstrated on Zack. Alex closes the door behind them and sits next to his friend on the bed.

Alex: Hey Jason. You were probably wondering where I was last night, right?

Jason: I thought you left me, just like Michael did!

Alex: But I didn’t. I came back, just like I promised I would.

Jason: Why did you even leave in the first place?

Alex pauses as he tries to think of the best way to answer that question without giving away too much, remembering what Omnius told him on the ride back to Hillside.

They were still riding on the back of the wild horse, a long way from where they’ve started but still miles from their destination. They were losing a lot of daylight fast, especially with the constant food and water breaks Omnius was giving the horse to ensure it doesn’t push itself too much for their sakes.

Omnius: Alex, when we get you home you mustn’t tell anyone about what happened last night.

Alex: Why not?

Omnius: If people discover that you have powers it would cause panic. Aegis will see you as a threat and seek to kill you.

Aegis. He heard that name before. Everyone knows who they are by now and they’ve become the new military protecting the globe after The Monster War, but he assumed they were only formed to deal with monster threats, not whatever cosmic powers he absorbed.

Alex: But won’t Aegis know about the giant emerald crashing on Earth? I mean, there’s no way I was the only person who saw it happen, right?

Omnius: There is no evidence of the emerald except for the crater it made. The emerald itself was destroyed as you absorbed its energy. Aegis will see it as another hoax like they did the last time something fell to Earth.

Alex: Last time?

Omnius: Never mind. We’ve not got much longer to go. Just focus on the path ahead, never look back.

Alex didn’t know what Omnius was talking about, but he didn’t care to ask at the time as he was growing nervous of all the yelling and punishments Jackson will have lined up for him as soon as he knocks on the front door. More so, he was worried to see Jason again. He had a feeling that he’ll be even more effected by his sudden disappearance than the care-workers will be.

Alex was so lost in thought that Jason had to shake his body side to side to snap him out of it.

Jason: Alex? Alex?!

Alex: Huh? What? Oh, sorry Jason. I kinda zoned out for a second there. I guess I’m still feeling a bit tired.

Jason: I asked you why you left last night? It’s not like you to go out after dark.

Alex thinks carefully on what believable excuse he can give without giving away too much. He didn’t like keeping secrets from his best friend, especially since they made the promise to tell each other everything at the end of their first week together as friends years ago. If Jason were to find out it would upset him more.

Alex: Uhhh. Last night I was annoyed that Michael left. I needed to be alone for a while, so I went outside for some fresh air. I took a little walk and ended up walking so far from the orphanage that I got myself lost. Hehe, pretty dumb, huh?

Jason: But telling him to leave was your idea.

Alex: I-I know... I guess part of me was having second thoughts.

Jason’s eyes narrow at he glares at him. He could tell that there was something he wasn’t telling him, and he didn’t like it one bit. But he was so delighted to see his friend again safe and sound that he decided to let it go for now.

His moment of joy quickly faded away once he reminded himself how upset he was when he woke up and went to Alex’s room only to find his bed hadn’t been slept in. He was convinced in that moment that he’d abandoned him. Pain like that can’t go away easily for a boy as fragile minded as him.

Alex: Jason, what’s wrong?

Jason: I thought you were dead! I thought I was going to be alone again. Just like I was before we met.

Alex quickly comforts him by placing his arm around his shoulders.

Alex: Hey hey! Don’t think like that. I told you before that I would never leave you intentionally… I wasn’t thinking straight last night. I just walked away without pondering how much it would affect you. I’m sorry I scared you by running off, but we can put that behind us now that I’m back, right?

Jason: …I guess so.

Alex: Great. Now hows about you and I do something together that doesn’t involve electricity, because Jackson is sure as hell banning me from TV and video games for a month, ha ha.

Jason: Heh, I’d like that.

Jackson: ALEX! COME DOWNSTAIRS! OMNIUS IS LEAVING!

Alex: COMING!

Jason: Who’s Omnius?

Alex: He’s the man who brought me home. I better go say my farewells. I’ll meet up with you later, okay?

Jason nods. Alex leaves his dimly lit room and finds Omnius standing in the front doorway saying his goodbyes to Jackson and May Li, who’re still expressing their gratitude to him for bringing Alex home safely.

Omnius: Well, I’ll be off now. Thank you for the tea, Miss Chang.

May Li: Oh, just May Li is fine. And it’s the least I can do for what you did.

Jackson: Thank you so much for taking care of Alex and bringing him home.

Omnius: My pleasure.

Omnius says with a bow. He then spots Alex approaching the bottom of the stairs and heading his way.

Omnius: Goodbye for now, Alex. I promise you that we will meet again very soon. I still have big plans for you.

Jackson: Plans?

Alex: It’s a me and him thing. Thanks again, Omnius. It was nice to meet you.

Omnius smiles and shakes his, Jackson and May Li’s hands before turning around and exiting the house. The wild horse was still standing in the front yard, waiting for him. He didn’t even need to be put on a leash. Some passers by notice the robed man climb onto the horse’s back without a saddle or reins and just asks it to take him back home.

The horse stands up on its hind legs and neighs as Omnius gives everyone at the orphanage a final send off. All the kids were pressing their faces up against the windows, watching in awe as the mysterious man rode off into the distance on his wild horse. It was like watching the end of an old, emotional movie where the hero leaves the people he saved behind and goes off on his next adventure. He was giving off a strong inspirational vibe with them.

Jackson: He is a strange man, but he has a good heart.

May Li: There aren’t many people like him left in the world nowadays. I’m glad he was the one that found you.

Alex: Me too.

Jackson: Okay, shows over everyone, back to your posts.

He called back to the kids, allowing them to leave the window and return to the normal kid stuff they always do. Alex was about to head into the living room and have some fun, only to be stopped by Jackson.

Jackson: Not you. You’re still grounded. That means-

Alex: No TV, video games, or music for a week. Yeah, I know.

Jackson: Interrupt me again and I’ll raise it to two weeks.

Alex: Sorry sir… Am I at least allowed to hang out with Jason in the back garden?

Jackson: Yes. But from now on you are not allowed to stay outside after 10 o’clock.

Alex: Fair enough. Thanks, Jackson. Thanks, May Li.

He then takes his leave. Jackson and May Li look at each other and let out a sigh of relief that this whole mess is over, and they can get back to normal. But as soon as Jason is seen coming down the stairs, May Li noticed he was giving her a cold, hollow look as he walks past them and follows Alex outside. She felt a disturbing chill run down her spine, causing her to shudder for a moment.

Jackson: You okay?

May Li: Ye-Yes. Yes, I’m fine.

Jason soon joins Alex on the bench outside and simply sat and chatted while occasionally watching the other kids playing football in the backyard. They’ve mostly been talking about the little things, trying to avoid delving into more serious topics like before. Jason then brought up Violet with Alex and asked him how he got her to like him so quickly, and even demanded some love advice from him.

That came as a surprise to Alex. He didn’t think Jason had any interest in dating since he’d never shown any interest in the girls around their age in the house. He was also very anti-social so asking him how to look attractive in the eyes of a girl is like asking a bald man if he knows a good hairdresser. It just can’t be done.

Still, Alex was willing to give it a try and see if he can turn Jason’s life around and help him evolve into a better person that everyone will like. Jason, however, took that as a sign that nobody will ever accept him as he is, which only made him feel worse inside. He tries his hardest to mask his true feelings in front of Alex to avoid worrying him.

One week has passed since Alex returned home, and by then he has served his punishment time and is free to access the things he loves again. Right now, he and Jason were watching the season finale of Captain Cosmic. He was really invested in the epic, climactic battle between the space superhero and the villain, Solar-Flare, in his final form, a five headed space dragon made of dark matter and solar energy.

Jason wasn’t enjoying the finale as much as Alex was. He was secretly rooting for the monster to win and was getting sick and tired of seeing Captain Cosmic win all the time. Just once he’d like to see the hero fall and the monster reign supreme. It would be much more entertaining for him.

Alex cheers after the credits rolled and falls back on the floor, using the cushion he was sitting on to rest his head.

Alex: Man, that final battle had me hooked! I loved how Captain Cosmic had to fight his inner turmoils as well as Solar-Flare as the The Big Banger. The name of his new form is a little on the nose, but the design and new abilities more than make up for it! Not only did CC save the galaxy once again, but he got to grow even further as a character. So far, I’d say season 2 is the best one. What do you think, Jason?

Jason: Oh… Yeah, it was cool. Captain Cosmic wins yet again. What a surprise… Not like he ever loses.

Jason replied sarcastically and muttered the last few words to himself while turning his head away from Alex. He didn’t want to let him know how much he didn’t like the episode and hurt his feelings.

Alex: I know this show isn’t for you, but I still appreciate you watching the finale with me. It’s so much more fun watching an awesome show like this with a friend then alone.

Jason: Well, I only said yes because you promised you’d watch Monsters Rising with me.

Alex: Yeah, I remember. I’m surprised that shows still going on. After the Monster War you’d think all television networks would avoid all mentions of monsters out of fear of getting sued. Then again, it’s not the weirdest thing TV has done… When’s the next episode?

Jason: It starts in fifteen minutes.

Alex: Alright. That should be enough time for a quick match on Road Boxer.

Jason: Can you not let me win this time? I don’t need you going easy on me. Go all out.

Alex: Okay, but don’t complain to me if I beat you again.

Jason giggles and helps Alex set up the old, retro game’s console and put the Road Boxer game disc into the slot. The game starts to boot up at the worst possible time. Jackson had just called Alex’s name and asked him to come to his office immediately.

Alex: What did I do now? I shouldn’t be grounded anymore… Excuse me, Jason. I’ll be right back.

He assures him as he leaves the living room. Jason sighs and disconnects the game, knowing whatever Alex is called for will take up most of the time before Monsters Rising starts.

When Alex entered the office, he was shocked to find Omnius sitting on the chair next to Jackson’s desk wearing the same clothes he wore last week and his wooden staff resting against the wall beside him.

Alex: Omnius? What are you doing here?

Omnius: I told you that I had things planned for you. Well, now’s the time to make them happen.

Jackson: Omnius wants to adopt you.

Alex was so surprised by this sudden, unexpected news that he almost lost balance and stumbles back a few steps. Omnius adopting him? He never saw that coming. He didn’t think he’d ever be taken into a home by foster parents. He’d been living at Hillside House since he was a baby, it was hard picturing himself having a proper family.

But then he remembered the incident with the giant emerald and knew that was the real reason why Omnius was taking him. He was the only one wise enough to understand what happened to him and has the knowledge to help him control the energy inside him. Thinking back these last seven days, Alex noticed the energy had calmed down within him and hasn’t given him away. But he did have a few instances where he almost did.

Like the time he accidently smashed his alarm clock and side table to pieces trying to shut it up. The time he ripped the bathroom door’s handle off, locking himself in there. He had to kick the door off its hinges just to get out. And perhaps the most embarrassing incident was when he went to fetch the younger kids' football from the neighbour's backyard and ended up throwing it into space. He had to tell them it got confiscated to hide it.

His powers were making him too strong. There’s a high chance he might accidentally hurt someone the longer he stays here. Leaving with Omnius was the smart thing to do.

Alex: I… don’t know what to say.

Omnius: You don’t have to say anything. We both know what’s in store for us.

Jackson: Which is what exactly?

Omnius: Let’s just say it was fate we met each other that night.

Jackson: Normally I wouldn’t be fine with sending Alex away when it's only been a week since we got him back. But I think I can trust you, Omnius. I believe Alex will be safe with you.

Omnius: Thank you, Jackson. I promise to take good care of Alex and protect him with my life.

May Li: … What are you waiting for, Alex? Go pack your things.

The excited young teen races out of the office and straight up the stairs to his room. Jason was switching the channel to the one broadcasting Monsters Rising when he saw Alex run up the stairs excitedly. He just completely forgotten about him and the show. That wasn’t like Alex at all. Something happened in that office, and he knows its something he isn’t going to like.

He follows him upstairs and lightly steps across the hallway to the entrance to Alex’s soon to be former bedroom. It was just as he feared. Alex was in a hurry to pack his backpack with his clothes, toiletries, and other personal belongings. He was leaving again, permanently.

Jason: You’re leaving again?

Alex was startled by Jason’s quiet voice addressing him like a mouse in church. He slowly turns himself around and sees Jason standing there with a look of sadness on his face. His back hunched over. Now he feels like a jerk for going straight to packing without first explaining things with him.

Alex: Oh, Jason… Y-yes, I am. Just let me explain.

Jason: no… no, NO! You said you would never leave me! You promised!

Alex: I know, I know. It’s just that-

Jason: It’s that Omnius man, isn’t it? He’s adopting you.

Alex: Yes, but it’s not for the reasons you think. He’s helping me… Something bad happened to me the night I disappeared, and he helped me get through it. He’s taking me away to help me more with it.

Jason: What happened that night?

Alex: I told you; I was upset about Michael and-

Jason: DON’T LIE TO ME!

Jason shouted as he slammed his fist against the wall, scaring Alex a bit. He raises his hand to him, motioning him to calm down and give him a chance to clarify what happened without mentioning the emerald.

Alex: Okay okay, calm down… I-I’m sorry, Jason, but I can’t tell you the whole truth. If I do it could put you in danger. Trust me, I’m only doing this to protect you. You’re my friend and I’d never let anything bad happen to you.

Jason: You don’t get it! Bad things will happen as soon as you leave. You won’t be here to protect me from Zack like last time.

Alex: You’ll still have Jackson and May Li to watch over you. And I won’t be gone forever. I’ll come visit you when I can.

Jason: …First Michael, now you. Maybe I’m better off alone! At least then nobody could hurt me!

May Li suddenly arrives on the scene.

May Li: I heard shouting. Is everything alright?

Alex: It’s nothing, May Li. Jason’s just upset about me leaving.

Jason: Nothing?! You’re saying our friendship meant NOTHING?!

Alex: No! No! That’s not what I meant!

Jason: …Good to know, Traitor!

May Li: Jason, please lower your voice. You’re scaring the kids. I know how you feel about-

May Li cautiously approaches Jason and reaches out to touch his head. When she got too close, Jason suddenly faces her and roars in her face like how the monster on TV did to its victim. May Li backs away in a panic, acting scared around the boy.

Jason: NO, YOU DON’T! Nobody does! Don’t act like you care! You’ve only been working here for a few months! You see us as a job you begrudgingly need to get through!

He then directs his anger towards his supposed best friend.

Jason: And you said there would be no secrets between us! You don’t care about me anymore, so just go!

Jason runs past both of them, pushing past May Li so roughly she fell over. Alex helps her up and asks if she was okay before heading to Jason’s room and knocking on his door knowing he’s probably locked it.

Alex: Jason, please don’t do this. I swear on my life we’ll stay in touch. I’ll text you everyday.

Jason: Don’t bother! Go live in your stupid dream house just like Michael is! I don’t need you! I DON’T NEED ANYONE!

Alex: Jason…

Jason: GO AWAY! LEAVE ME ALONE!

He tried. He really did, but it didn’t look like there was any getting through to him. Alex looks down at the floor in defeat. He’s really screwed up big time. Like that night with the emerald, he didn’t think things through, he just acted on impulse. And now as a result of his actions, Jason is more miserable then ever.

He didn’t have the courage to say goodbye to him now after that. All he could do was place his hand on the door and lean his forehead against its smooth wooden surface.

Alex: … I’m sorry.

He whispered calmly before leaving.

After that episode, Alex is standing outside the orphanage saying goodbye to his care-workers while Omnius patiently waited for him on the back of a different, white wild horse. The last horse already carried him to Hillside House and back again, wasting four hours of travelling. He reckoned he earned a rest.

Alex: Goodbye, May Li. You sure you’re fine?

May Li: I’m sure. He didn’t hurt me and I’m sure he didn’t mean it. It’s a big change for all of us. You’ve been living here longer than any of these kids. Just give him time, he’ll come around… I hope.

Jackson glances at May Li. She was lucky she was nowhere near the staircase when Jason pushed her, or she’d be in the hospital now. He started to think maybe she was onto something when she suggesting sending Jason to therapy. He may need it more than ever now that the one person keeping him together is leaving.

Alex: Jackson?

Jackson: Sorry. It’s just that, I can’t help but feel like I’m not ready to let you go yet. Like she said, you’ve been here since you were a baby… I’m really gonna miss you, Kiddo.

Alex: I’ll miss you too, both of you. And Jason, and the other kids. Well, maybe not all of them… Jackson, you were the closest thing I had to a father. I’m glad you were the one who found me… I’m really gonna miss this place… Take care of Jason for me. He thinks bad things will happen to him without me. Make sure he’s okay.

Jackson: Of course we will.

Alex gives the two adults one last group hug and holds it for a good long minute before putting on his backpack and heading Omnius’ way.

Jackson: Alex, wait!

Alex stops in his tracks and looks back at Jackson. He was digging into his right pocket and pulled out a gold heart-shaped locket with a gold chain and a swirly pattern of magenta.

Jackson: Before you go, I want to give you this.

Alex: What is this?

Jackson: This locket belongs to you.

Alex: This is mine? I don’t remember owning a locket. Where’d you get this?

Jackson: This… was around your neck when I found you. I’m only giving it back to its rightful owner.

Alex looks all over his locket. The creases on the sides indicated it can be opened, but he was having a hard time doing that. He flips it over and finds a small keyhole on the back, but there was no key.

Alex: It’s locked. Where’s the key?

Jackson: There isn’t one. You only had the locket with you that day, nothing else.

Alex: Strange. I wonder why… If you’ve had this all this time, why’d you wait till now to give it to me?

Jackson: I assumed you would start asking questions about your birth parents if I did. I wanted you to grow up a little first before dropping such a bombshell. I didn’t want to disrupt your childhood any more than The Monster War did. I hope you understand.

Alex: I do. You’re probably right about the asking questions part… Still though, thanks for keeping it safe for me.

Jackson: My pleasure, Son.

Alex smiles up at him. He was still confused as to why there was no key to his locket, as much as why he had such an antique in the first place. All he can guess is it once belonged to his birth parents, and they gave it to him before their demise. The more he thought about it, the more questions he had. But he didn’t have the time to get answers. Omnius was waiting for him. So, he ended things off with one final hug from his care workers and left.

Alex waved to Jackson, May Li and the other children after he got on the horse. They were all standing outside waving back, giving him a proper send off. At least most of them were. Jason was watching him from his bedroom window looking bleaker than ever. Alex gave him a wave too, but Jason just looks away. He didn’t want to watch another friend walk away out of his life. Not again. It was too painful to bear.

Everyone watched and shouted one last “Goodbye” as the white horse rode off into the distance until they were beyond ear and eyeshot. It was after they’ve gone when Jason finally turned back towards the now empty street. He felt so betrayed that Michael and Alex, the two people he called friends, have left him all alone. All Jason could do now was lie back on his bed with tears running down his face, scared of what’s going to happen to him without his only supporting friends in his life.

The wild horse started picking up speed once it was out of the big city streets and had more room to run around in, desperate to get them back to the monastery in the mountains and return to her herd. Omnius and Alex were silent during most of the trip. Omnius kept his eyes on the path ahead while Alex took in the sights of New London. But now Omnius was ready to address the main motive behind his adoption.

Omnius: You remember why I did this, don’t you?

Alex: My powers.

Omnius: Indeed. How have you been feeling since I last saw you?

Alex: That medicine you gave me did stop my body from shooting lightning everywhere, but I think its starting to lose its effectiveness. I’ve had many instances where I underestimated my newfound super strength.

Omnius: As I predicted. The energy is growing stronger. That’s why I needed to adopt you. Not only to give you a home, but also to help you control the raging Chaos Energy inside you.

Alex: Chaos Energy? Is that what it’s called?

Omnius: Yes. I’ve been researching the emerald that fell to Earth and have uncovered its origins. The world is fortunate it didn’t fall into the wrong hands.

Alex: Oh, it’s that powerful, huh?

Omnius: Don’t worry, Alex. When we get home, I will train you to harness and use this power for the good of mankind. If used correctly, you could help a lot of people.

Alex: Me? help people? Ha! Whaddya know. This really is my superhero origin story! AWESOME!

Alex exclaimed with pure excitement. This is officially the beginning of his journey to becoming a superhero. Helping people who need it is one of his favourite things he enjoys doing. With tamed powers he can do so much good. Help so many people like Jason who suffered from The Monster War.

He looks down at his locket hanging around his neck and holds it in the palm of his left hand as he and Omnius continued riding towards the mountains. He c wait to get started and see himself become a brave, pure of heart hero like his idol, Captain Cosmic.

To Be Continued