Realm Komiks Prequel New Worlds: Chapter 20 Unified

Chapter 20:

                                                                      Unified

                                                      

The women’s swords clank against one another, their sheer  weapons bouncing sun light. Natika’s majestic wings spread, each delicate feather spread to its fullest, her elbow forward, holding her sword. Natika’s head tilts forward toward Margret. “Your next move…”

Margret finds footing and charges toward Natika, her wings whoosh  above the wind, backing her slightly away, sword slamming against Margret’s. “More Advantageous, Margret.”

Margret grits her teeth and pushes harder against the wing creature, her wings giving a powerful flap, tumbling Margret to the ground.

Natika’s feet tap against the soil as she slowly walks toward Margret, sword guarding her breast.  “Don’t knuckle under now.”

Margret backs away slowly, sword guarding her torso. She pauses, a short breath and then lets out a low bellow as she stampedes toward the winged woman. Their swords meet, jostling against one another, biceps pressing against their skin as they continue to shove against one another, swords trying to slip against the force.

Margret grunts a final “Ugh,” toppling Natika, dusting her white wings against the colorful dirt. Margret gazes down at her opponent and with one last thrust, knocking Natika’s sword to her side. “Check mate” she smirks pulling herself to her feet and lending a hand to help Natika up.

“Well done.” She smiles pulling herself from the ground. “Should I fear that an Earthling has so much power behind her thrust?”

“You should fear all Earthlings, Natika.” Margret solemnly warns, “We have an anger in our soul that you, of the Cepae planet, do not know how to harbor.”

 “Maybe so; but we have an unconditional love we will die to protect. One with no fear of their life is much more dangerous than anyone who is in anger.” She addresses. “One who harbors anger becomes careless.”

Margret pauses, “Have you ever fought in a battle of any sort, Natika?”

Natika’s eyes shift awkwardly, “I have not. Does not mean I am not ready for a battle to present itself.”

“I’m not judging,” Margret quickly assures her, “If you understanding what judgement really is.” She pauses searching in Natika’s perfect bone structure for an answer, “I’ve never been in a war, or fought in one; but I have met soldiers that have. My grandfather actually, fought in World War II. His job was to pick up the bodies after D-day. The American soldiers, off of Normandy Beach. One of his best friends discharged, couldn’t handle the duty of picking up pieces of American Soldiers.” She finds Natika’s eyes, which seem to beg to understand.

“I try…” Natika discouragingly shakes her head.

“I know.” Margret interrupts. “I tell you because I want you to understand what you face. What all of you face on our planet. Earthlings can be brutal and merciless. In battle, you are either on a team or against a team. There is no listening to your heart and what is right or wrong. It is what side are you on ad who are you willing to die for.”

Natika withdrawal her sword into a fashionable ring upon her finger taking Margret’s arm into hers , “You are wise a million times than I ever will be when it comes to planet Earth, no matter what kind of warrior I am on our planet. I do not understand your Earth or its multitude of customs. A planet so divided, many rulers, many beliefs, all colliding….”

“There surely must be other planets out there besides ours. Based on so much good and evil, so equally divided? Earth can’t be the only one.”

“Earth is not. There are other planets that we believe are equally of Earth or perhaps worse, but none within our Realm. None so close.”

Margret gives a mocking scoff.

“What is it?” Natika pleas to understand.

“Oh nothing, just the comment of ‘so close.’ An idea that Earth is close to Cepae is not in our definition.” Margret stops unlocking her arms from Natika and withdrawing her sword to the perfect stone upon her finger. “Our planet does not work, Natika, truth be told. We have hatred, evil, and people killing people over beliefs, colors of skin, religions, or the mere fact that a person may have looked at them wrong or cut them off in traffic.”

“Traffic?” Natika tries to keep up with Margret’s rambles.

“The point is,” Margret sighs, “Cepae is coming to help fight a battle that you could be killed for the mere fact that you look human… with wings on your back. Earthlings fear anything and everything that they cannot understand or that we cannot process in our feeble brains. You will all be in danger,  no matter what side you feel you are fighting for.”

A voice chimes in from behind the two women, “Our passion will be fighting for all Cepae descendants that reside on Earth. Knowing or not.”

“Zulima!” Margret excitedly announces, falling into her arms with a humongous hug, her heart now vulnerable to the Cepae customs.

Natika joins with a brief hug as Zulima lightens her grip on Margret.

“So wonderful Zulima. What brings you?” Natika inquires.

“It’s time.” Zulima chokes through her lower vocal cord.

The women look at her, trying to figure out the exact meaning of her words.

“Colm will meet you Margret. Natika, the other warriors await you to begin. Transportation toward Earth will depart morning. Earth is in danger of takeover from Divobite’. Other Planeteers are close to entering Earth’s atmosphere as we speak.”

“Divobite’?” Margret questions.

“The vampires.” Zulima qualifies. “Please, Natika, find the other warriors. I’ll find Margret to Colm.”

“Of course, Zulima. I will see you both at transportation.” She nods and hurries off.

“Zulima…” Margret begins.

“Margret, Opal and Nacreous are eager to board the transportation. Your wings will be ready or battle.” Zulima informs her tone, flat and her face expressionless.

“Zulima…” Margret tries to intercept the conversation.

“Margret!” Colm exclaims running to her, smuggling her in an embrace, grabbing her cheeks and pulling her into a kiss. “Come, on, we must go.”

“Colm, Zulima, I don’t understand why she is going, why…” she tries to understand.

“All healers are summoned for battle, Margret.” He informs her as if she should already know.

Margret’s head tries to find Zulima but she has already disappeared. “Colm…” Margret struggles to explain.

“Margret,” he interrupts, “It’s the way we work together. Warriors go nowhere without the healers. We are all family.”

********

Bruinen’s steps fall heavy through the house that is white, American claimed on the planet Earths; Nawfar close to his side, her small footsteps twice for every one of his. The other Acquavodians’ steps echo short behind his, relieving little stress of the Earthling’s never ending red carpet, crystal chandeliers and miscellaneous country flags, reminding of what country on Earth you must be loyal to.

Bruinen finds the air through his lungs as they finally stop, the suited men turning toward him, opening a set of doors simultaneous as though their whole lives were dedicated for that moment.

Bruinen hesitantly enters through the doors, greeted by a multitude of suited men standing from the wooden desk, in front of their black leathered chairs. “Acquavodians.” President Cromwell greets. He pulls himself from behind his chair and briskly greets Bruinen, shaking his hand within his. “I apologize if I’m overstepping, this is a common American custom.”

Bruinen briefly tries to grin, “Yes, I have come to know. Excuse me for my immediate question, but where are the rest of the Planeteers?”

“On their way. We, White House Chief of Staff, Mr. Watson, our National Security Council, Advisor and also of Homeland Security. It’s a privilege for you to join us here; we’ve made accommodations for Planeteers leaders in another area, able to communicate with your armies, of course.

Bruinen feels his fist involuntary clinch as he turns his head toward Marlin, in returns slightly raises an eyebrow. “I’m not exactly sure how Earth runs their… ‘Armies’ but we stay beside our fellow comrades. No matter what our… ‘Status’ be on our planet.”

Cromwell turns towards Watson who stands and approaches. “We understand this dilemma, Sir Bruinen, is it okay to address you as so?”

“Sovereign Bruinen.” Bruinen nods.

“Of course, Sovereign Bruinen. Normally, perhaps on your planet, you would stand next to your comrade, as a King would his army in battle. However, we are entering a war with other planets, other realms. Nothing that Earth has ever encountered before. It is of most importance that the… spokes people… may I tip toe around the title safely, we cannot allow anything to happen which could comprise your planets stability.”

Bruinen’s head falls downward toward Nawfar, her small oval face tilting towards his. “Let us discuss this.” She finally speaks up, her squeaky voice almost knocking the room from their feet.

“Of course.” Cromwell chimes in. “Please let me personally escort you to a room for discussion. Privately.”

Cromwell nods toward the men in the room exiting, and Bruinen takes his mild signal with the others following.

They quietly walk up the stairs, following the President. “This is American history.” He finally tries to break the awkward silence. “Every room has its own stories. It’s an American honor to serve our people and live here. I don’t take my duty lightly. Elected, by our country, many countries on Earth do not have that luxury. The people of America have many years and continue to fight for a certain freedom.”

“Don’t we all?” Nawfar chimes in.

Taken off guard Cromwell pauses for a moment turning toward her, “One should hope so.” President Cromwell dips toward the petite elf like woman.  “However, all of Earth isn’t so. Power is what many Earthlings crave.”

“Do you mean to tell me your America doesn’t crave power on planet Earth?” Bruinen adds. “Are you all…”

“Everyone on Earth craves power.” Cromwell’s lips tighten for a moment as he opens the doors in front of them, “Yellow Oval Office, ladies and gentlemen.”

Bruinen stops and watches the president for a moment before entering the room. “The other Planeteers…”

“Will be here soon.” President Cromwell assures them.

The five of them enter the room, Bruinen studying the surroundings carefully, his eyes shifting toward Nawfar. She ignores Bruinen’s eyes finding comfort on the sofa. “Are we to be content here until others arrive?”

Cromwell finds seating across from her, ignoring that the others stand above him, “What is Acquavodo’s plan?”

“Marlin is our lead of defenders,” she answers immediately,  “After we arrived he has called upon for more of our defenders to join us. They will enter through the triangle, where Tsunami, his daughter, and one of our most respected interpreters, Kae, will meet them.”

Cromwell’s eyes can’t help to shift to Bruinen, standing behind Nawfar, as if was directing his question toward him. Bruinen lays his hand on Nawfar’s shoulder, slightly squeezing it of reassurance, nodding toward Cromwell in agreement.

“Should we arrange to meet your defenders…” Cromwell begins.

“We will guide them to where they need to be. Please know our strongest point in battle is, of course, with or around water. We will not have much use on Earth soil otherwise.” Nawfar reminds Cromwell of their weakness.

“Of course.” Cromwell acknowledges standing. “We will be required to collaborate with the United Nations, of course. I am sure there will need to be an agreement between our Nations. We will need to spread the Planeteers among us, for us, countries on Earth, to feel somewhat safe in what is unraveling here.”

Bruinen suddenly derides, “What about the Planeteers’ feeling safe? You are one whole world that could easily decide to turn against us. Having the Planeteers divided amongst your planet leaves us little assurance in our safety.”

“I would think they would all agree, dividing our Realm if non-negotiable. We have alliances for years beyond your Earthling comprehension. You will need to agree to which one of your countries we all reside.” Nawfar securely announces.

“Very well.” President Cromwell bobs his head. “You will have to excuse me while I return to the Conference room for further counsel between all United Nations. Will you find comfort here, if I were to excuse myself?”

The Acquavodians’ exchange glances and finally Bruinen agrees, “We will, if promised we will be notified of any other arrivals of our alliances.”

“Of course.” Cromwell assures. “I will also make sure you find comforts in some of our American cuisine. Please make yourself comfortable. Intelligence outside the doors for your safety, I assure you.”

President Cromwell finds the doubles doors and begins to open them, “Sir!” Tsunami unexpectedly calls, “Before you head through the door…”

He turns toward the young woman with a raised eyebrow.

“Kae and I would like to head toward the triangle, to meet our men, as soon as possible. To make sure they do not arrive to hostile welcoming.” Her chin tilts toward Bruinen and Nawfar waiting for encouragement.

“Of course.” Nawfar quickly stands up. “Marlin should go too. Marlin will await our word before proceeding in anyway, I can assure you.”

“Very well, I’ll take this to the room and we will address the UK and they will be in touch with RBDF. I don’t foresee any problem in your request.”  Cromwell agrees, “Any other request before I proceed?”

Bruinen shakes his head, “No, we will wait patiently forward.”

Cromwell gives a reassuring grin before exiting, “I look forward to our working together. Thank you for your understanding of our must see customs.”

The door closes and Bruinen finds a seat next to Nawfar. He takes her hand and whispers in her ear, “We will find what we need in Atlantis. Tsunami will be successful.”

Nawfar’s eyes find Tsunami who is already studying the delicacy of the room. “I know.” She whispers toward him.

*********

Margret’s hands stroke Colm’s chest under the dim light. The transportation in headed toward Earth with over half of Cepae’s warriors, little compared to one country of Earth. “I’m scared, but more so for the Cepae people than anyone else.”

Colm kisses the top of Margret’s head, stroking her locks. “My love, we are all a bit terrified.” He tenderly reminds her, “Not once ever have I heard Cepae want to fight a battle, let alone on one the scariest planets there is.”

“You all talk of Earth as if it is horrid.” Margret sighs. “There are many good people there.”

“I have no doubt, you lived all your life there.” He smiles to her, his fingers softly trailing down her spine.

She quickly perks up staring into his eyes, “You give me too much credit.”

“You are not giving enough. What you have been through…” his voice trails.

“Don’t feel sorry for me.” She commands, “If all hasn’t happened to me I wouldn’t be who I am today. I wouldn’t be here.”

Colm intensely lock lips with Margret, their tongues slowly intertwining, his thumb pressing against her chin he slowly pulls away, gazing in her eyes. “I will be by your side, you and all your uncertainty.”

“You’ve been through training, but the other healers…” Margret sadly whispers.

“We will protect them.” Colm assures her. “And I will not let Zulima out of my sight. Or you, for that matter.”

Margret nuzzles her head to his shoulder, pressing her cheek harder against his left chest. “Your heart, I love the beat.” She softly moans closing her eyes.

*******

The clock ticks against the silence of the room. The Acquavodians had already found little comfort in the American’s cuisine and the room was quickly dissolved to dullness and impatience as they began to feel slightly imprisoned from what was happening outside of that house.

“I’ve had enough.” Nawfar stands. “Silence is only welcomed during peaceful moments and this is not one of them.”

Her pupils dilate as they meet Bruinen. “Agreed. Let’s find Cromwell.”

As they ignore the other reactions and head toward the door in swings open, Cromwell on the other side. His body slightly pulls back, not expecting the duo so close to the entrance.

“Sovereigns Bruinen and Nawfar.” He addresses.

“Apologies, we were beginning to grow impatient. Nerves, I suppose.” Nawfar squeaks at him with no shame.  

“Understandable,” he agrees walking on passed them, addressing all of them in the room, “Americans have military that will escort the three to the Bahamas. There, the RBDF, Royal Bahamas Defense Force, will guide American troops and the three of you. At this point our countries will collaborate on the best defense from this point. We have had mysterious behavior in reptiles, along coast lines of America shores, Australia and small parts of Africa and Asia. Parts of the United Nations are convinced it could be relative to Romania. If this is true, we will need your Planet dispersed through these regions, among the military’s.”  

“It is possible for our planet to do this, assuming I am able to gather our communication devices from our ships.” Marlin intercepts the conversation.

Nawfar glances towards him in disapproval but he continues, “Our communication must be maintained from our submerges, and from under water, to keep them safe. These will need be controlled by Tsunami and Kae in the Bahamas.”

“I see no problem in your request.” Cromwell agrees. “In addition, Sovereign Bruinen and Nawfar, the United Nations, already some Planeteers beginning to land, such as Zeebla, Scylitan and Cepae, they are being dispersed through the Earth United Nations.” Noticing the crinkle in Nawfar’s forehead he quickly continues, “Nawfar and Bruinen will join me in the conference room, having the ability to speak to other Planeteers at all times, just as us, United Nations are able to communicate. We strongly believe this is the greatest advantage to all involved.”

Bruinen and Nawfar share a pause, evaluating one another’s expressions. Finally Bruinen speaks, “Very well. We are also agreement with our fellow Planeteers. Nawfar and I will keep footing in the United States of America while our fellow Planeteers shelter with others of your United Nation.”

President Cromwell gestures, “Follow me then. The rest of you will follow the agents to your destinations. I’ll give you a brief moment to say your good-byes and wait right outside the door.” Cromwell shuts the door behind him.

As the men gather Nawfar hurries to Tsunami. “Find it. You might only have this one chance to bring it home.”

*******

Margret finds her way through the ships’ long hallways, the interior slightly appearing translucent against the prism lighting. She waits for a moment, the lucent barrier opening itself to her. Margret finds Zulima, standing among Zagzagel and Serafim, softly speaking to one another.

Zulima tilts toward Margret, pulling her in, holding her hand, and subtly allowing her to join the conversation.

Zagzagel barely acknowledges finishing his sentence, “and they are in parts of country Hungary, why we are not heading in from that angle.”

“Who is?” Margret turns toward Zulima.

“The Divobitians.” Zulima softly squeezes her hand with her attention returned to Zagzagel. “Father and Mother say we are meeting an army of Earthlings calling them Franco-German Brigade. From these Earthlings, we will learn more of our place among the defensive lines. Father and Mother will be located at another station, here they will be able to communicate with other Planeteers’ leaders.”

“What will this place be called that they are taken to? How will we reassure their safety?” Serafim inquires.

Margret blinks her eyes, trying to fight the visions of war and pain that try to press on her mind. The visions she begins having are dark, blood being spilled from throats…

“A country Earthlings call Switzerland, the city Geneva. There are other countries, Austria, Italy, Czech and Poland… We will learn more from Franco-German Brigade of where they will stand.” Zulima’s eyes shift for a brief moment as she gathers more of her thought, “The main struggle the Earthlings are facing is the technology. They do not have the weaponry to have an immediate elimination of the Divobitians. There are few of them compared to the Earthlings. However, the Divobitians are rapidly spreading their infections among the Earth, allowing those to join them become one of them and those who refuse they destroy.”

“Building their army while destroying Earthlings who will not obey.” Serafim summarizes.

Margret’s head tilts, finding her index finger pushing against its temple. The horrid pictures become stronger, hearing please and cries of mercy. Pleading for life of their children’s survival as a woman and man with red eyes rip them away from sobbing mother’s arms.

She takes a deep breath but her breathing quickly becomes rapid while trying to shake the haunting images. The three  oblivious to Margret as she struggles to pretend.

“We will need to inform the Earthlings of the technology the Planeteers hold. Taking us to the front lines, stopping the death.” Zagzagel decides.

“Yes, I agree, but we also must pursue our suggestions heavily, while sounding nonthreatening to the United Nations ideas.” Serafim follows.

“Agreed. It will be important.” Zulima nods.

Margret’s head becomes dizzy.

“Margret, perhaps you will be the best resource in our communication.” Serafim suggest now turning toward her.

“I…” she struggles to stay in the conversation, to stay focus on the men standing before her.

Zulima finally realizing the emptiness in Margret’s eyes stands before her grabbing her arms. “What is it, Child? Are you okay?” her hands quickly find their way to Margret’s brow, a faint glow pushing gleaming from her fingertips.

Margret tries shaking it out of her head again, sealing her eyes and quickly opening, embracing the healing light flowing from Zulima’s fingertips deep in her temples “These visions as you are speaking… they are just… strong.

“What do you see?” Zagzagel questions, “Can you communicate it?”

Margret takes a deep breath, “It’s just killing and death. I don’t know if it’s what is happening now or to come. It was triggered only now when you were speaking of everything… maybe it’s just made up in my head…” She gains clear focus as Zulima removed her hands from Margret’s head.

“Better?” Zulima whispers with concern.

Margret bobs her head with assurance. “Yes. Thank you.”

“I can assure you it is very real.” Zulima finds her chin, meeting her eyes. “Do you know of these armies and countries we speak of?”

Margret sheepishly shrugs, “Know of the countries, yes. Been to them? No. If you handed me a blank world map I would not be able to site which country lays on it. Except, Italy. That is the boot.”

“The boot?” Serafim becomes curious.

“It is irrelevant.” Margret inhales deeply, “Just an American school girl trick to remember where the country sits in Europe. Forget it,” she switches gear with a burst of gumption, “ I will fight and I will take direction.  I will be useless about culture and customs while we are there but I will use every ounce of strength I’ve learned on the Cepae planet.”

Zagzagel confusingly adds, “It is your planet we will be on but you will not know of your own culture and customs? ”

“I’m not an idiot Zag.” She refers to him, “But I don’t own the planet either. There are over billions of earthlings, customs, beliefs… I am only one person.”

“Let her be.” Zulima suggest, “Her visions are strong now and haunting. She needs to find peace now.”

“Of course,” Serafim agrees, “I hear visions can be mentally draining. We need her sharp when we arrive.”

Zulima tugs at Margret’s arm pulling her away. “When I have more information I will bring it. Until then, inform the others.” She adds to the men before entering the hallway with Margret.

“Where are you taking me?” Margret wonders.

“Perhaps…” Zulima begins nuzzling closer in, “You should stay with Father and Mother in the country where Geneva resides.”

“Absolutely not.” Margret protest stopping Zulima. “Why would you suggest…”

“I know your heart is in the right place, however…” Zulima begins.

“The answer is no.” Margret interrupts, “I don’t care what the reason is. I will be out there with you and Colm.”

“Your visions could provide…” again Zulima tries to explain .

“No. No. No.,” she shakes her head vigorously. “Absolutely not.  This is the end of this conversation. Besides, my visions aren’t powerful enough yet, not to mention unpredictable. I’m not sitting on the sidelines worrying. I will be with you and Colm. Now if you will excuse me,” she gives Zulima a halfhearted hug and begins walking down the hall.

“Colm isn’t down that way.” Zulima calls.

“I’m not going to see Colm, I’m going to visit Opal. He calls to me.” She announces and continuing on.

Natika walks up behind Zulima touching her elbow gently, “Is everything well?”

“Natika,” Zulima softly speaks, sliding Natika’s hand to her forearm not letting go. “I want Yourself and Colm close to Margret and I at all times. Help me be aware when she is having visions.”

“Yes, of course, Zulima. Is there need of worry?” Natika questions baffled.

“Not yet.” Zulima turns toward her, “but if Margret has any while in battle, it could quickly be the cause of death.”

****

Read Chapter 21: Refuge

Read More Realm Komiks Chapters

Realm Komiks Prequel Chapter 19: Forbidden Fruit

Chapter 19:

FORBIDDEN FRUIT

Adrian pulls himself from under the covers, feeling his way through the darkness, making his way toward the kitchen. The kitchen is subtly lit with the full moon giving him enough light to find the handle on the fridge. He pulls on it, opening and searching for his last meal, Frigarui, his favorite left over. He pulls the tray out and sets it on the counter, taking a few off and placing it in the microwave. He stares at the remaining pieces as the microwave whirls and decides to shove a cold piece in his mouth.

The microwave beeps politely, and he pops it open grabbing out his treasures, turning to walk toward the table, a figure stands in the shadows. His body quickly jilts unexpectedly.

He grabs a knife from a wooden block, “Whhhy, why are you in my house?” he manages to stutter.

The dark shadowy figure narrows in on the body, silent.

Adrian falls backwards, stumbles. “I’ll stab you. I will.” He threatens.

The vampire rushes towards his victim, the knife falling through his chest gives him only a moment of hesitation, before he sinks his fangs into the prime mister’s neck.

*********************

Sultana sits in the corner bar, a hole in the wall, located in Cluj, called The Jack; the name mundane and simple for sitting in the biggest city of Transylvania. It is slightly crowded, inside as well on the outside, people stand around listening to music any sipping on beers from pint glasses. The queen’s attire is subtle, almost blending in with strangers. She gazes down the bar at a plump man, dangling his short legs off the bar stool as he shifts the ice in his glass, staring nervously at the television. The reporter booms information about the recent slayings of numerous important government officials and he is one of the few still living. He wipes his bald head, pushing his glass toward the bartender as he passes. “Another one,” he snaps, slightly turning his head toward the people of the bar.

Sultana’s eyes shift away from the man and passed various people interacting, finally finding a familiar face, Lucius, who nonchalantly nods. Taking the cue, Sultana pushes away from the table, exiting towards the back of the bar, the crisp air invigorating to her icy body. There is a sudden moment of ghostly silence before blood curdling screams begin to echo from inside the bar, without reaction her head raises to the air pausing. Feeling the presence in the shadows, she speaks steadily, “I’m not being presumptuous by assuming you have begun your part?”

The shadowy figure slightly comes into the light, Poisonous Dart revealing herself. Her voice is low and wispy as she speaks in a commanding tone, “I needed to be assured you were being successful before I proceeded.”

Sultana’s fist clench as anger boils inside her, “You question me?” she whispers from her throat.

“Question you? Don’t flatter yourself.” Poisonous Dart scoffs.

Sultana slowly turns toward her. “Romania will be ours by tomorrow morning. Cluj will be my headquarters for operation. Bucharest is ours. Taken over their armed forces and currently their air forces. Things are as in order.”

Poisonous Dart smirks, “The creatures are ready. I will wait until then to release them.”

“No, release them now.” Sultana demands. “The chaos must divert.”

Dart’s eyes narrow and ignoring the queen’s demands she turns away, starting to walk.

“Dart!” Sultana calls, causing Dart’s head to swing around; eyes dry against the brisk wind. “I don’t trust you; but I believe in you.” She confirms confidentially.

Poisonous nods towards her, “Unfortunately our minds may think too much alike, my Blood Sucking friend.” She vanishes into the dark.

Sultana snaps at the touch against her shoulder, turning to Lucius’ blood covered face staring at her. “Our work is done here.”

She tilts her head toward the bar, silences hovering in the outside air. She grimaces, flinging her coat toward the street, “Come, Lucius, we have a long overdue conversation with someone.”

Lucius’ head tilts downward as his body thrust forward, following his Queen.

*********

Janet intently watches the television as the boat whirls against the wind on the top deck. Her chin rests her hands, her eyes wide. Her father’s feet thumping against the steps behind her don’t grab her attention. “Janet.” He firmly tries.

“Dad, you should see this.” She points at the TV, not taking her eyes away from it.

Her father takes the remote ready to shut down the set but stops for a moment. “What the heck…”

“Yea, all over Florida, people stuck in their houses because of the alligators. But it’s not just there; there are places in South Carolina and other states around the coast. Reporters also mentioned other countries like Australia and…,” without finishing her thought she quickly jumps, “Dad; they said climate change or global warming effect…”

Daniel interrupts, “Grab your phone, and get up deck.”

Janet looks confused as her father begins grabbing wires from the wall, disconnecting things. “What’s going on, Dad?”

“Janet, top deck I said. Take your phone.” He firmly scolds at her.

His face suddenly looks defeated as she takes off toward the deck, the air smacking in her face, pushing fresh tears toward the back of her ears.  Daniel follows up close behind, grabbing the cell from her hand and tosses it to the crashing ocean.

“Dad!” she screams. “My cell!”

He then feeds his phone to the dark ocean, it splashing into the screaming waves.

“Dad! What are you doing?” Janet cries louder this time, grabbing her temples. “What are you doing? You cut off all communication!”

“We don’t need it Janet…” he yells over nature’s noise.

“How’s mom going to find us?” she screams hysterically, “How’s anyone going to find us?

“Listen to me, Janet.” He grabs her arms as she tries to breaks free.

“Dad, no! No! You’ve lost your mind!” Janet’s tears stream down her flushed cheeks. “We’re going to be lost at sea forever!”

The clouds begin to darken over them, pushing the waves harder into the boat. The wind whirls louder, smacking against their bodies. “Come in Janet. We are going to talk.”

“Dad it’s going to storm. The boat won’t hold in this storm. We’re never going to see mom again. We’re never going to see anyone again.” Janet’s voice becomes flat, arms flinging around her father’s torso holding him tightly, tears quickly damping his shirt. “You won’t tell me what is going. I’m scared, Dad.” She sobs.

Daniel’s arms grab her tightly, pulling her toward the lower deck, the wind working against them. “Listen, Janet, I need you to wait down here while I steady the boat.”

She’s blank, staring at him in dismay.

“Janet, co-piolet, I need you hon. Be with me.” His palms finding her cheeks while his eyes continue to search for hers.

“Why are you trying to kill us, dad?” her words stale flat against the air.

“You listen, Janet.” Daniel persist, desperately closing his eye’s flood gates, “I’m not going to let anything happen to you little girl. You aren’t going anywhere under my watch. You understand me?”

She nods at the desperation of her father’s voice.

He grabs her and hugs tightly again before steading. “We are meeting your mother at ‘our paradise.’ Understand me, baby girl?”

Janet’s head hesitantly nods, tears dripping off her chin and then landing onto her father’s knee.

“She’s going to be there Janet. We are all going to be safe together.” He kisses her forehead and then slows and calm, “I’m going upstairs to steady the boat. Get that Jane Eyre book you love, okay? It’s just like any other storm. Read. Calm. I’ll be down.”

Her neck leads slightly, standing still.

Daniel grabs the book off a shelf, shuffling her over to the bed. “Climb up.”

She does as she is told. Daniel fluffs the pillow around and tucks her under the blanket. He grabs her iPod, setting the playlist and snuggling the head phones against her ears. “It’s Shubert’s ‘Serenade’.” He forces a smile opening her book. “Start at chapter one. Read out loud baby girl, don’t worry I will be able to hear you.”

The music dances against her ears, slowing her heart against her chest, her father’s voice falling quiet as she reads, and “There was no possibility of taking a walk that day…”

Daniel quickly leans down and kisses her on the forehead once again, then rushing to the top deck; he raises his head watching the clouds parting, brightly the sun shining through; The wind calm against the ocean’s gentle waters. He blinks his eyes against the rays; once again a storm has quickly passed them by as fast as it had come.

*****

President Cromwell twirls the pen between his fingers. The thin utensil feels heavy and thick as he tires from fondling the ball point pen, dropping it, letting it ting against the desk. His hands fold under his chin, eyes rise to the top of his forehead, meeting the Chief of Staff’s. “We need to call military action to Romania. I’ll call an emergency meeting to order. Handle contact of the alliances. I will directly contact the Planeteers.”

“Sir, some of the Planeteers have already arrived.” The chief of staff reveals, “We just received word before you requested my presences.”  

Cromwell’s palms find his eyebrows, pulling them to his temples as if he were shaping them. “Where are they?”

“In the US, sir, on their way to Washington. They seemed to have some trouble on their travels and arrived through the Pacific Ocean, outskirt of California.”

“Media’s going to love that.” Cromwell groans. “Get them to me personally. I’ll contact the others.”

“On it, Sir,” the chief walks toward the door but pauses, slowly turning his body toward him. “Sir…?”

“What is it?” Cromwell answers matter of fact.

“We also need to address the issues in the South, with abundance of alligators surfacing. Some people are making claims that they are walking on two legs…”

President Cromwell shakes his head, “Important things first. We don’t have time for outlandish stories and theories. We need to be assured all measures are taking place to bring an end to Queen Sultana or we might not have a South.”

“Yes, sir,” the lengthy man nods, hurrying from the oval office.

******

Sultana’s heels click against the flooring, echoes following behind her as Lucius and Domninious trail inches behind.

Sultana comes to a halt at the dark wooden door and then without any thought swings the door open, letting it slap against the door stop before hitting the wall.  “Euguen!” Sultana exclaims as the man quickly stands up from behind the desk. “Chayse, wonderful to see you in person again.” She grins widely to the woman standing behind him.

“Likewise, my queen,” the blonde leans back against the painted wall, her arms dangling next to her side, returning a toothy gleam, highlighted by her red lips. “Also good to see you again, Loosh. Dom.”

The two say nothing in return as Sultana slinks in cutting off the introductions. She slides her rump across the front of the desk, slapping her hand on Euguen’s shoulder, gliding him back to a sitting position.

“We’ve done it.” He announces, with some uncertainty.

“We’ve done it.” She gently whispers back, snapping her neck toward her wicked friends. They all begin to laugh among each other. Euguen’s eyes shoot around the room in confusion of the chuckles. He gradually begins chiming in as Sultana’s cackle crescendos, echoing against the walls of the room; then suddenly cut off by her hand slamming down on the desk before him, indenting the heavy oak into the floor.

Silence.

Eugen Adam’s apple feels as if it is floating in his throat.

“Tell me exactly what you have done again, Euguen?” Sultana smirks, leaning toward him.

The expression quickly begins to change on his face and he bottoms up some courage.

“I’ll tell you what I did; you blood sucking Strigoi,” he firmly finds his voice, “I collaborated and infiltrate of our government, arm force, air force…” standing from his seat he continues, “without me your whole operation would have been sloppy; destroyed.”

Sultana scoffs, “You were merely a pawn, Euguen. A very small pawn in a very huge game.”

Euguen’s body trembles with rage, “We made a deal, Strigoi!”

“Ha!” she mocks rising to her feet and turning her back to him.

“You will turn me into one of you! I move to your planet. That is the deal.” His voice now quivers through his breath, words short and choppy. “You are a Queen. Honor your deal.”

Queen Sultana’s body snaps toward him. “I am Queen. I most certainly do honor my deals… just not with humans that continue to refer to me as Strigoi. You say the words in such a vial way, I really despise it.”

“Your majesty,” he grovels slowly, “I know Romania like one else…”

“Actually, that is very untrue.” Sultana’s lips tighten, “I used to live here.”

“Yes, but in what decade? Things have changed. People have changed. You really think you can just conquer all the Romania people?”

“I haven’t conquered all of them. I have turned many Romania people into one of us. They are useful.”

“You, sick, Strigoi! Do you really think no one is hiding? Do you really think the people of Romania are just going to belly up and become one of you? They are waiting for the right moment to take you down and without me you are going to be fucked.”

 “Chayse.” She directs her attention toward her.

“Yes, my Queen?” she takes a step closer.

“Are you exhausted of fucking with this man?” Queen Sultana asks blankly.

Euguen turns toward Chayse with pleading eyes.

She shrugs her shoulders at him and then directs Sultana, “Incredibly. Fucking with him. Fucking him. All of it.”

“Well do it one more time.” Queen Sultana nods with a wicked grin toward Chayse.

“Yes, my Queen,” she grins, pulling out a dagger from behind her side.

“No!” Euguen screams about to run. But his reflex is to slow, the dagger thrust into his back, “Du-te Dracu!” his head howls to the air for a moment.

After a brief second of thought, Chayse continues withdrawing the knife from his spine and thrusting it again and again. Blood spews from his body, splashing on her face. His body falls limp against the desk but Chayse continues to viciously hack at him, gore decorating the room in red.

“Chayse!” Sultana raises her voice slightly annoyed, as she is slapped with a splash of blood against her cheek bone. “Chayse!” she screams out finally catching her attention.

Chayse slowly removes the dripping dagger, “He’s dead.” She proudly grins like an ‘innocent’ five year old.

Sultana nods, “Yes, I can see that. A dagger? Couldn’t just snap his neck or something?”

“He was a creep.” She whispers.

“That was noticeable and very evident. Glad I didn’t have to fuck him.” Dominious chimes in. “Kind of like the office is ruined but makes me a little hungry too.”

“Yes, I need some fresh food,” Chayse drops the dagger sliding toward them.

Sultana ignores the women’s idle chit chat, meeting Lucius’ pale eyes. “It’s time. Let’s continue on.”

Lucius gives a slight movement in his neck allowing his Queen to lead the three vampires from the massacre.

****************

Susan’s head rest against the door of the car, her forehead pressed against the glass, watching the fields pass by in one patch of green.

“How do you do this?” Susan’s voice falls flat not expecting an answer.

Silence falls heavier in the vehicle’s box, Susan grasping her eyes and tightly rubbing them. “I’m tired. Are we almost there?”

“A little under thirty minutes, Mrs. Smith,” the man answers dryly.

Susan’s head fall back against the window’s glass, her eyes shifting toward the lights in the rear view mirror. She sits up quickly, “I think you are being pulled over.”

Watching the lights flash behind them, searching for an expression on the agents face.

He only keeps driving.

“You need to pull over agent.” She sarcastically announces.

“They aren’t after us.” He dryly moans, checking his rear view mirror.

As the lights flash on the passenger side she confirms, “Um, yes. No other cars around. It’s you, Mr. Agent ‘Above the United States Law’.” 

The agent grunts and with a smirk of humor decides to pull over. He stares in the mirror, waiting for the officer’s vehicle to past, but instead the vehicle pulls behind him, lights flashing.

Susan smirks, gazing toward the agent, the red and blue lights flickering through the vehicle. “Looks like everyone isn’t on your page, Agent.”

He turns away from her, adjusting his mirror as the police officer steps out of his cruiser, walking toward them.  He clicks the button on his door, allowing the window to lower, waiting for the officer to approach.

“Sir.” Agent addresses.

“License and registration,” the officer announces, pulling his mirrored sunglasses from his eyes, staring at the agent.

“What’s the problem, officer?” Susan watches as the agent leans out the window.

“Sir, I need your license.” The cop reminds him.

“I think you need to radio into your captain, deputy.” He dryly suggest, threatening the officer’s integrity. “FBI Agent.” He displays his badge.

“Sir you need to step out of the car,” the officer challenges, peering into the car, directly shooting a glance at Susan.

She stares into the officer’s green eyes, and he quickly looks away, focusing back on the agent. “I need you to step out of the car, sir.” He firmly says, opening the door and waiting for the agent to exit.

Agent XXG gives Susan a brief glance and then steps out of the vehicle. “Contact your captain now.” He says more demanding, “You are representing your agency poorly.”

The officer steps past the agent, peering into the door, “Are you okay, mam?”

Susan, not expectantly, turns toward him and nods as if she were being the one interrogated.

“Your name?” the officer asks XXG.

“I’, an agent.” He answers annoyed, “I will have your career on the…” he begins to threaten but is interrupted by his cell vibrating through his pocket.

“You should answer that.” Suggest the policeman.

Agent hesitantly pulls out his phone, “Yea?”

Silence as chatter against the phone spits in his ear. “I have a rookie officer pulling me over right now.” A pause. XXG wryly observes the officer. “My boss would like to speak to you.”

The officer anxiously goes to grab the phone and the agent pulls it back for a moment as if to challenge him. “I suggest you listen closely to what he has to tell you. We are on a time frame and I am only standing here out of politeness and respect to your commissioner.”

The blue suit sneers taking the phone. “’Ello.”

Susan’s neck extends from the passenger seat as if she were a heron spotting a jumping fish, trying to catch all of their conversation.

“Uh huh. Officer Steve Walch, sir.” Pause. “Almost two years now, sir.” Pause. “No, sir I most certainly would not want to hold up a man of the FBI. Important I’m sure.” Pause. Longer pause. “Well, sir, if it’s so important I can escort him in case of traffic or something, sir.”

Agent XXG tries to grab the phone, “There is no traffic.” He spits frustrated, making Susan give an unexpected soft smile.

Officer turns his back toward the Agent, “Yes sir. Will do sir. Proud to do so sir.” Pause. “Yes, sir, good-bye then.” He hangs up the phone and spins around handing it to the agent. “I’m to escort you sir. You are a very important man and after you drop her off, another agent needs to take over. Apparently there is some shit happening and they need you on it.”

“I know.” He moans. “My politeness has expired.” He climbs into his vehicle fastening his seatbelt.

The officer’s knuckles tap against the window. “ugh…” Susan confused taps the button allowing the window to drift down.

“Want to catch a ride with me? Since we are all going to the same place and all.” He grins.

“Ugh…” she nervously scratches against the cardboard box of Cheeze-Its laying in her lap, shooting a glance toward the agent.

He moans and starts up the car. “She’s my responsibility. Step away from the car.”

Susan takes a long deep breath and shrugs with pleading eyes.

“Right understand, agent.” He hit the top of the vehicle with the palm of his hand, “Let’s get you there.” He gives Susan another look with short reassuring nod.

Agent XXG doesn’t wait for him to climb in his vehicle and begins to drive, making the officer act quickly to keep up.

Steve’s radio comes through clearly, “Where are you, Steve?”

He grabs his radio, “I’m off duty. Have the cruiser back in the morning.”

*******

Read Chapter 20: Unified

Read Past RK Chapters

Realm Komiks Prequel: Chapter 18: Small Town

Chapter 18:

Small Town

The dirt road finally turns into a rural farm area. Agent XXG took the blindfold off of her eyes about twenty minutes ago. His thick sunglasses shield his hallow eyes while he faces straight ahead, never looking over to the passenger seat. The whirling of the car and the and cool air blowing from the vents disturbs the silence inside the vehicle.

Susan stares at the farm houses, one every couple miles, most of them with cows, some horses, and she has even seen goats. She wasn’t sure where the mysterious man was taking her; they were nowhere near the Caribbean. Eventually they would have to take a plane to the island, and then perhaps she could then find a chance to contact Dan. She had to warn him and he had to take Janet some place far, someplace these people would never find her. Then Susan thought about her mom and Aunt… she had to find her mother.

Her eyes shift down to her fingers. She is nervously squeezing the left, noticing the coral nail polish now chipping off the tip of her nails. She lets out a heavy sigh, titling her head toward the agent, wondering if it will grab his attention.

He ignores her or chooses not to hear. Perhaps, he is an alien himself so he doesn’t understand an exasperated sigh given by a human.

Susan hesitantly decides to speak, “I remembered something about my mother.”

“Oh?” the agent leads with zero expression on his face.

“The things my grandmother said about my grandfather are true, aren’t they? Unfortunate for my mom, she was unlucky enough to receive his genes.” Susan inhales sharply through her nose, eyes on the strange man, waiting for a response.

He simply continues to stare forward, as if Susan had never finished her thought. She decides to continue on, probing for information. “It makes sense, now. My mother was happy and carefree at one time in her life. Then she discovers she has whatever gene it is. Even accidently kills my father, right?”

“You believe she killed your father? Interesting, Mrs. Smith.” He murmurs.

Susan takes a deep breath, her fist clench and her teeth tighten. “The lightening.” She finally continues, “My mother has something to do with the she effects the weather… If it’s possible. The lightening, the rain… always when she is upset or sad… I now know this all can’t be coincidental.”

“We will check into this information, Mrs. Smith.” His mild tone voice fades out as Susan grits her jaw.

“Oh, stop toying with me.” She snaps, “I know I’m right and I’m not giving you any information you… and… whatever part of the government hasn’t already figured out.”

He ignores her for a moment and then nonchalantly, “I appreciate your decision to cooperate. The information will be investigated further.”

“Where is she?” Susan whispers, staring at the man, plotting.

“Safe, Mrs. Smith, I assure you.” His hand turns the wheel as they head onto a busy highway, green interstate signs now visible.

Susan begins to reads the Interstate 70 Highway sign, angry at herself not sure where it is.

“Have you never had family agent? Is that why the only definition to your name is an ‘XXG’?”

This time not expecting him to answer she continues, “A weird government experiment perhaps? Do these really go on? Is this all you have ever known? Family is important Agent. If you are human, honestly I’m not sure you are; you have to understand the compassion of family. I need to know about my mother. Where she is, what your plans are, will I ever see her again…Can you answer any of these questions, Agent? I need to know if I will see my mother again.”

For the first time the agent tilts towards Susan for a brief a moment and then back to the road. “I’m not a monster, Mrs. Smith. This said, I cannot answer your questions. I do not have the authority and I do not want to mislead you.”

Her heart begins to pound hard against her chest while processing his answer.

He has no authority… he cannot promise me anything. Janet is truly in danger.

She begins tapping the window anxiously. “I need to use the restroom. Are we almost to our destination?”

“We are not.” He dryly answers.

“Are we taking a plane? We have to take a plane, correct?” she tries not to sound panicked.

“We do have to take a plane, Mrs. Smith. We will be flying on a private jet; two more hours until we arrive to the airport.” He discloses.

“Two hours! I can’t wait two hours; I have to go to the bathroom now. My bladder can’t hold two hours.” Her head swings toward him, hair sweaty against her neck, anxiously awaiting his answers.

As if he is thinking, finally he speaks, “There is a gas station a few more miles. Can you wait that long, Mrs. Smith?”

“I can try.” She concludes.

“I will pull over now if you feel you might soil yourself, Mrs. Smith.” Dryly he offers.

“No! No, gas station is fine. I’m not that ‘type’ of lady that can just let it go anywhere. Three miles, I’ll wait but don’t forget.” She turns her head toward the window, propping her elbow in the window, nervously plotting an escape plan.

*************

The black Cadillac rolls into the old worn down gas station, tires crumpling over a gravel drive way before it touches black top. The man pulls next to a pump, putting the car into park. He turns his head toward Susan.

“Mrs. Smith you need to take care of your business and immediately return to the vehicle. I will be fully alert and backup can catch up to you within minutes if you were to try to run. Do you understand?” He murmurs, head titling down toward her as if he’s taking a closer look.

“Of course.” She nods, “I have nowhere to go.”

She watches as the lock on her door pops open, slowly pulls the handle releasing the door to the outside. The idea of freedom is heavy and she takes a deep breath, tightening her mouth toward the agent before heading inside the station. The agent also exits his door.  Before entering into the station she turns her head slightly to see him filling the car with gas, appearing to watch her through his thick glasses.

The glass door shuts behind her and the old man pulls himself off a chair from behind the counter to service her.

“What can I do for you mam’?” he ask now standing behind the register.

“Restroom?” she raises an eyebrow.

He waddles to the other side of the counter, grabbing a key, attached to a large wooden button, and slides it across the counter to her. “Outside. Around the corner to your right.”

As she begins to take the key from the counter she quickly covers his fist stopping him, “And a phone.”

“The pay phone is on the other side of the bathrooms.” He oddly eyes her jerking his fist away.

“Cell phone? I need to borrow a cell phone. Please tell me I can borrow your cell phone, I will bring it right back. Promise. No tricks,” She quickly pleas.

The old man shifts his eyes toward the parking lot, “Are you in some kind of danger, mam?”

“It’s complicated, but yes. And I need a cell phone to call someone, my husband actually. It’s very important.” Her breathing quickens, quickly trying to blurt everything, worried about her lengthy entry. The agent, so far, appears unsuspicious as he watches the pump outside.

“Well, mam,” the old man begins steady, “I don’t own a cell phone. But I can call the police for you.” He picks up the phone from behind the counter.

“No!” she finds herself shouting. “No, no police. No police.”

“You can use the phone if it’s local.” He starts dragging the 80’s phone over the counter and she raises her hand.

“Not yet. I’m going to the restroom. Have it ready when I come back, please.” Her eyes shift toward the agent and she hastily swings through the doors heading toward the restroom.

She unlocks the stall and goes inside, pacing back and forth.

Think Susan. Think.

Susan’s hand slams against the cheap tile, in frustration. Her head slowly rises looking at the filthy walls.

Gross.

She heads to the sink to wash her hands but soap won’t release itself from the dispenser.

“Ugh, I really dislike gas station bathrooms.” She breathes from under her breath as her hand vigorously pulls at the paper towel holder, refusing to deliver the product.

Her fist falls against the hanging box, forehead following as it repeatedly slaps against the plastic. She finally pauses, allowing her head to stay rested against the empty holder. “How is this happening?” the whisper leaves her mouth as her stomach slightly gurgles. Her hand finds her abdomen, pressing it softly and she sighs. “I don’t think I’ve eaten forever.” It gurgles again reminding her of its starvation. “I can’t think about eating now...” she scolds the growling, her voice now trailing as her eyes brighten and a realization comes across her face. She storms out of the bathroom charging toward the agent. “I’m hungry!” she shouts rushing toward him across the parking lot, stopping before him. “I’m hungry.” She pathetically gazes up toward him. “I need a snack, I need food.”

“I can assure on the plane, Mrs. Smith…” Agent XXG begins.

“On the plane! You said that was two hours! I’m starving. Low blood sugar. Are you guys trying to starve me to death?” she takes a deep breath. “I’m hungry. I need money.”

The agent stares, expressionless as her face begs. He reaches into his jacket pocket grabbing out a wallet, badge attached, opens it and hands her a credit card. It dangles between his fingers and she stares hesitating at first.

Then suddenly she snatches it from his fingers, “Thanks, be right back.” She turns toward the store, not sure what expression he was hiding under his thick glasses and runs through the doors before he might have a second thought.

The old man stands at the counter. “Mam, are you okay?”

She hands the key over the counter, grabbing a pen. “Paper?” she panics. “I need a piece of paper.”

“Uhhh…” the old man shoots his head around looking.

Impatient Susan grabs his wrinkled skin and writes a number down. “Call it. Please, sir. Keep calling until my husband picks up.”

“This is a long distance number, mam and…” he begins but Susan quickly cuts him off.

“I’ll make it worth it.” She flashes the car to him and begins stuffing her arms with miscellaneous snacks off the shelf.

He quickly begins dialing as she grabs candy, hand sanitizer, immediately putting it on her hands, and then shrugging, “Yes. Yes. Why not?” Grabbing a cheap bottle of cabernet off the shelf, she makes brief eye contact with elderly man.

He shrugs, “Still trying.”

Susan’s eyes quickly shift toward the large windows eyeing the agent now on his phone. Her breathing become more panicked as the man interrupts her focus, “A man, I think I have your husband on the line. Hold on sir,” he says back into the phone.

Susan races to the counter dropping the stuff before the clerk. “Dan?” she panics.

“Susan!” The voice on the other line sounds baffled. “Where are you? I’ve been trying…”

“Dan, Listen,” she cuts in, “Take Janet on the boat and go. She is in danger, I am in danger, and you are in danger, Dan.”

“Slow down, Janet. What’s going on?” Dan’s worried voice booms through the phone.

Susan’s head is leaning far into the counter, trying to disguise her phone conversation. The old man slowly rings her items up while listening.

“Dan, listen. Grandma’s Alien stories are real. Some underground agents involved. X-Files stuff…” she tries to explain.

“Susan have you been drinking?” he confusingly questions.

“You know I don’t drink!” she booms as the old man finishes ringing the bottle of wine, eyeing her.

“Susan what’s going on?” Dan demands.

The old man’s fingers suddenly tap on the counter until her eyes find him. He begins waving his finger as his eyes watch out the window.

Susan takes a sharp breath and quickly tries to finish, “Listen, Dan, everything I’m saying is true. Get off the phone process this and then get Janet the hell out of there. I’ll meet you at our favorite spot. Go there Dan… give me…”

The line goes silent and the old man quickly yanks the phone from her ear slamming it down and shoving it under the counter. “You’re purchase, mam.” He loudly says pushing the bags toward her.

Susan turns her head seeing the agent feet away and she fumbles for her bags. “Your credit card, mam.” The old man nods sliding it across the counter.

“Thank you very much for everything.” Susan nods.

“Mrs. Smith…” Agent XXG begins.

“Don’t look at me with whatever look you have behind those glasses.” She scolds moving passed him with the bags, out the door and toward the vehicle.

The old man avoids contact as the agent turns and follows her. He watches the agent push out the doors and when they swing close he slyly leans back watching them get in the car. Then picking up the phone he swiftly dials waiting for a brief moment for someone to answer, “Um, yes, I’d like to report one of those suspicious males, he has a woman I think she’s in danger…”

**********

The young police officer hits the red button on his cell. He pushes away from his desk, scooting passed some other officers with a nod and makes his way into the small wood paneled office. “Captain,” the young lad addresses.

“What is it, Steve?” he ask setting his coffee on the desk.

“We have a dispatch call to follow up on; A suspicious black Cadillac traveling with woman that might have been abducted by a man in a black suit. The man is tall, black sunglasses, brown hair and they were…”

The captain’s face becomes awkward as he interrupts, “Ignore it. It’s nothing.” He stands up from his desk and begins to walk out.

“But, sir…” he tries to explain.

The captain stops dropping his hand on the young man’s shoulder. “Look, Steve, this is above our heads. Government business. You’re new but you’ll learn.” He gives one more tap before exiting his office toward another officer.

Steve stands with a dazed glare as the other policeman gives him a noticeable look, approaching as the captain leaves. “Steve,” he begins, “I think it’s time you understand something about our town…”

******

Chapter 19: Forbidden Fruit

Read More Realm Komiks Prequel Chapters