Chapter 40: The Aftermath of Atlantica

The pod bursts through the surface of the water as if it was about to drown and just now reaching the surface after being in the grip of the liquid for so long. It's positioned a moderate distance away from shore. It doesn't completely escape the water, however. A heavy rain pours down over the city. It's creating puddles, dampening clothes, and being as powerful as it can be. But there is no thunder. No lightning. Just rain. Hunter looks down at you, passed out from both physical and mental pain. Hunter kneels down and places his hand on a bandage wrapped diagonally around your body, covering the bullet wound. He removed your shirt, so your ice necklace now rests out in the open. Lucky for you Hunter had some medical supplies in his holowatch that he used to bandage your wounds. You won't need to go to the hospital, not that he was going to take you. No time for it. But he knows you need rest. A flight to Sanfransokyo will take almost a full day which is enough rest for you. He just won't wake you up the entire time.

Hunter closes his eyes and contemplates everything that just happened. There's Rain and his effect on you. There's Alistair and his demand to work together. Everything seems to be going in every direction possible that there's no way Hunter can keep all these balls in one court. He stands up, still staring at you. He clenches his fist in anger but quickly relaxes his hand, releasing it all. Hunter enters a few commands in the pod, making it take you both closer to shore. Once the pod reaches shore, Hunter grabs you and throws you over his shoulder. He carries you out of the pod then turns around. The pod closes, backs away, and then dives back into the water. Hunter nods, knowing his job is complete. Hunter slowly walks away with you over his shoulder. He needs a place to go, and there's only one place he can think of.

Even If it looks odd to everyone else, Hunter doesn't try to hide you from the public. He starts walking into the city with no emotion on his face. The rain trailing down his cheeks are the closest thing to emotion he is showing right now. He's blank – a vessel that acts but doesn't feel. It's not that he doesn't want to, he just can't anymore. After everything he's seen and been through, losing a friend isn't enough to make him cry, or even pause. He's been forced to murder kids, see people scream in agony from the Hierarchy's experiments, and killed more than he ever wanted to. With the life he's lived he can't afford to feel for every loss he's experienced. It's an unfortunate, sobering reality.

Your clothes - along with Hunter's - start dampening from the rain. Hunter shakes his head to get rid of some of the water. His white hair falls closer to his skin, nearly covering his eyes. He can still see though, but others can't see his face. They can only see the empty expression as he walks by. Everyone still on the streets stare at Hunter and you. They're shocked at your state, and how casual Hunter is being. Hunter doesn't look at any of them right now. All he wants to do is get back to Gaia's home. That's the only place he can think of to be safe.

"You're right about Alistair."

Hunter cringes a bit.

He was there... he was probably there the whole time. He let us conduct our business AND let us live. I wonder if Ursula made it out... hm... seems we actually have to cooperate with him but... I don't trust him. I feel like he'll betray us.

"You're right about Alistair."

But if I don't then we'll die. (Y/N) is supposed to have the strength to stop Alistair, even he said it. That whole file was odd though. It was half corrupted and ended with (Y/N)'s blood. We should have the same blood, no? Or maybe they enhanced him in some way that makes his blood different. But that can't be it. Alistair himself claims (Y/N) is completely natural... but that doesn't make sense. Even I'm enhanced, to a degree. Father and mother too. There's no way (Y/N) isn't enhanced. I refuse to believe it. Maybe Alec knows something... I might be able to contact him once I'm back in action.

Hunter keeps to himself until a woman approaches him.

"I'm sorry to ask but... is that man okay?"

"He's fine, just... had a rough morning," Hunter smiles, faking it.

"Oh... alright. If you say so," she reluctantly accepts.

Hunter brushes by her and continues on his way to Gaia's residence.

"You're right about Alistair."

XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX

Alec lets out a sigh and walks into his room. They day has just begun, and, like always, he has a lot of work to do. Unlike most days where he's wearing just a black or white dress shirt – half tucked in and lazily put on – he actually has a suit jacket on today. His white dress shirt is still half tucked in but it's somewhat covered by the black jacket. Before sitting down he walks over to his mini fridge and opens it up. He's disappointed when he sees nothing ready for him. He cringes and slams the door shut.

"Janice!" He shouts in an aggravated tone.

A young, black haired woman rushes into the room.

"Y-yes Mr. Westergaard?"

"Why is there no whiskey in the fridge? Where did my whiskey go?" He questions, seeming to be on his breaking point.

"I... I'll get you some more right away!" She nods, running out of the room.

Alec watches her leave and sighs. He reaches into his pocket and pulls out a flask.

"Can't believe I need to resort to this..." He mumbles.

Alec unscrews the cap and takes a swig of the drink. He pulls away and smiles.

"That's the good stuff. Now..."

Alec walks up to his computer and boots it up. He also takes off his coat and hangs it off the side of his office chair. As it starts up Alec starts drinking once more. He downs the entire flask before the computer boots up – which is within one minute. Alec stares at the empty flask for a moment then tosses it away. He walks up to his computer and goes into his emails. He sees one from Monarch. His heart skips a beat. Alec's finger closes in on the email.

"Alec!" Elsa happily greets.

Alec retracts his hand and looks up at Elsa, who is poking her head through the door.

"Are you okay? Seem a little tense," she observes.

"Yeah, I'm fine. You just startled me."

Elsa nods and leaves Alec. She walks to her office and sets her bags down beside her desk. She walks around the table and sits down in her chair. She sighs, leans over and rests her face in her hands. She starts tearing up a little bit in frustration and stress. She drags one hand down her face and keeps her eyes shut.

A day ago she called the police to search for Olaf. From what everyone can remember, Olaf was supposed to be picked up by their friend. He was picked up, but not by them. Elsa learned that his friend's mother dropped by, but he wasn't home. She thought nothing of it, and assumed he got busy. So it's evident that an unknown individual picked up Olaf and brought him somewhere. The police are still looking into it, but this weighs heavily on Elsa's mind. Her baby brother – albeit adopted – is missing and she only blames herself. How can she let someone take him?

Elsa attempts to regain composure. She wipes away the tears and assumes a regal position. She can't break down right here in the company that she owns. At home, sure. Then again she has to keep Anna smiling when Kristoff isn't around. She's taking it hard too. Maybe a little harder then Elsa.

Elsa sighs and looks out her window, imagining what you might be doing right now. As she day dreams, Juno enters the room.

"Ms. Anderson?"

Elsa looks at her and smiles.

"Yes... Juno?"

"I've been here for a few hours now. May I go get lunch?" She politely asks.

Elsa nods and playfully shoos her away.

"Of course, of course. You work too hard. Go on. I can handle things."

Juno simpers, spinning around and walking away.

Juno walks by Alec's office. Alec looks like he's just seen a ghost. His face goes pale and his eyes almost shake. He can't believe what he's reading.

"Erik... I hoped you were dead," he mutters.

Alec clicks a button under his desk, changing all the glass around his room. The windows looking outside and the glass inside the building that makes his room all goes black. There's no way to see outside or Inside of the room. Alec quickly grabs his phone and dials in a number. The phone rings and Alec paces around his room. He's almost sweating.

"Hi, listen. I need a favour. I need you to get me in contact with someone."

Juno notices the glass go black and smirks. She enters the elevator and clicks the button, sending her down. In a room just left of an elevator houses a man. A man with his back against the wall, and his eyes just able to see Juno pass by. He waits for the elevator to close before letting out a breath. He breaks off of the wall and fixes his hair. He walks out of the room and starts walking towards Elsa's office.

"Good thing Juno left. Not even I can enter her mind. Not anymore, anyway," he whispers.

He continues walking towards Elsa's office. He glances over to where Alec's is, seeing that it's shaded off.

"Well Alec, I feel like someone is nervous. Hopefully I get a warm family welcome. When we meet."

He walks up to Elsa's office and takes one step inside. He lightly knocks on her door to attract her attention. Elsa looks up at the man. A very skinny man in a white suit.

"Can I help you? I don't believe I had any appointments today," she suspiciously asks.

The man intertwines his hands behind his back and greets her with a warm smile.

"My apologies for dropping in with no warning. My name is Erik Westergaard," he introduces. "I'm just here to check up on the new CEO. I want to know the company is doing well."

Elsa sits as straight as she can and places her hands on her desk.

"I'm confident in my abilities to lead the company. You shouldn't be worried," she confidently states. "And doesn't Alec report to the Westergaards?"

"Of course he does. But since the very company is called Westergaard-Anderson Industries, I would like to see it for myself," he smiles.

Elsa raises her brow. Something about this man is off, but she can't explain it. She just knows this man is different.

"So, how can I help you?"

"Ah, well, it was mostly you that I had interest in," he joyfully says, taking a seat in front of Elsa's desk. "The old CEO was good, and I want to see if you can do better. He was your father, after all."

Elsa tenses up a little bit but quickly dispels any butterflies.

"Yes, he was. I just hope I can live up to his name. Besides, your brother is doing a fabulous job at teaching me."

"Of course. Of course," he groans. "So, what about you yourself? I hear you are engaged? That must be exciting," he smiles.

Elsa retracts the hand your ring is on and slips it under the desk.

"I don't see how that can affect my work in any way," she defensively retorts.

"Of course not, of course. But relationships can be a tricky thing, you know. You have to make sure he's the right man. For instance, is he there for you?"

Is he there for you?

That sentence starts repeating in Elsa's head.

"Would he be a good husband?"

Would he be a good husband?

"These are things you have to make sure of when choosing a lifelong partner," Erik finishes.

Elsa rises to her feet in shock.

"I think you should leave. These are obviously not questions related to the company. Maybe I'll consider speaking to you again when it's about something relevant," she barks.

Erik raises his hands to surrender.

"You're right. I'm out of line. I'll be leaving. My apologies, Ms. Anderson."

Erik stands up, arms still in the air, and walks towards the door. He lowers them once reaching the door but stops moving. He turns his head towards Elsa and smiles.

"Just think about it," he remarks.

After that, he leaves. Elsa stares at the door trying to wrap her head around what just happened. He came in so suddenly and started asking these questions. It's not right. But why ask things about you? It makes no sense. How would he even know about you?

Is he there for you? Would he be a good husband?

This repeats in Elsa's head once more. She shakes her head and lightly places her hand near her left eye.

"He's with me as much as he can. Right..? Yes! Well... sometimes. He wants to be, right?"

Elsa huffs and sits down in her chair. It spins a bit towards the window, making her eyes drift towards the beautiful mountains outside Arendelle. She stares at these mountains, wondering what is out there. What natural beauty could be there? It's something she wants to see. Maybe with you. Maybe on her own.

XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX

Alec grabs his flask off the ground and hurriedly crams it into his pocket. He grabs his jacket and puts it on as he leaves the room. He speed walks to Elsa's room and knocks on the door frame, capturing Elsa's attention. She looks over at him, expecting him to say something.

"I have to take the day off today, Elsa. My apologies. Something came up," he vaguely explains.

"It's alright Alec. You can go. I can handle things," she reassures.

"Alright. Call me if you need anything," he says before turning away and heading for the elevator.

Alec approaches the elevator and clicks the button. He looks up at the indicator and sees that the elevator is situated near the base of the building. It will take a moment to arrive at his floor. He sighs and leans against the wall right beside the elevator. His mind is on overdrive right now trying to figure out what he's going to do about Erik.

Erik has been gone for over a decade, and for good reason. He was sent to an insane asylum years ago. At first it was just a cover up, but Alec isn't sure exactly what his father was trying to cover up by sending him there. Erik, however, slowly changed in that asylum. Alec would go visit him sometimes to see how he was doing. It wasn't often since Erik was under the tightest security, and if Alec's father found out that Alec was seeing Erik? Well, Alec wouldn't be here right now. But Erik slowly started to deteriorate after years of being stuck there. Alec had, and still has, his suspicions that whatever Balthier did to Erik went terribly wrong, and started to tear away at all reason Erik once had.

Alec and Erik were the closest out of all the brothers, mostly because they were the eldest ones – Alec being one year older than Erik. Even though Alec was older and considered a genius, Erik was even smarter. His ability to process information and use his brain was something nobody had ever seen before. Erik was a prodigy in the field of the mind. Alec was slightly jealous, but Balthier taught humility to him at a very young age. Instead of seeing Erik as a rival, he saw him as a useful tool. A sad way to see a brother, yes, but it's the way he was brought up.

Erik was around seventeen when Balthier sent him away somewhere. Alec knew not where nor did Balthier care to elaborate on the subject. A year later he was sent to the asylum. Alec has used his resources to figure out what happened, but there's nothing in the record. What is recorded is how Erik cracked in the asylum. He attacked guards, claimed to hear voices, and even people's thoughts. Doctor Bishop was the one who looked after him. From what Alec knows, she tried her best to help Erik but ultimately failed.

Whatever happened there is buried. There only person who may know about it are Erik himself and Dr. Bishop. Since Dr. Bishop is as clear as fog, it seems Erik's the only one who knows what happened. Now he's back, and he's a threat to the Hierarchy. His letter made that all too clear, along with Alistair's simple instruction.

The elevator arrives at the top floor and opens up. Alec walks in, hits the ground floor, and waits. The doors close and the elevator slowly descends.

Alistair, Alec. It's a pleasure to know you two are still around, especially you, Alistair. Seems like you killed my father, which saves me the trouble of doing it myself. Don't think this makes me indebted to you, Alistair. Given the chance I will end your life. You took everything from me. My life, and my sense of self. But now, after years in that hell whole and years in isolation, I'm back and know who I am and what I'm capable of. You may have your little plan that I have yet to learn of, but count on me stopping you. Maybe killing (Y/N) will slow you down, hm? That would dwindle the amount of family you have left, or so I've heard. Know that I am out in the world, Alistair, and nothing can protect you from me. Now, Alec. I wish to meet you. I'm sure you'll find me, so I'll be eagerly waiting.

"Why would he call me out right there in a message meant for Alistair? And why does Alistair want me to follow this up?" Alec rambles.

He crosses his arms and furrows his brow, focusing everything on what this could mean. Everything from Erik to what his connection is with Alistair. Of course Alistair isn't giving anything away, but Erik seemed to have a legitimate reason for hating him. Another piece Alec is missing. Yet, when all is said and done, the one thing Alec really is missing is some whiskey.

The elevator slows down and comes to a pleasant stop at the base floor. The door opens revealing Janice holding a bag. Her eyes widen when she sees Alec in the elevator.

"Sir! I got it as fast as possible," she says, holding the bag in front of her.

Alec smiles. He walks towards Janice and grabs the bag out of her hands.

"Thank you Janice. You have the day off today – with pay, of course."

Janice, surprised about the news, stands awestruck. Alec doesn't waste any time and proceeds right by her, taking a swig of whiskey. He doesn't even flinch at the burn. He pulls it away from himself and holds it at eye level. He pulls the bag off of the bottle and stares at it.

"No name shit? I might as well just go get ANOTHER bottle," he complains. Alec stops and thinks about it for a moment. "Well... an extra bottle never hurts."

XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX

Hunter carries you through Tiger Plaza and to Gaia's store. She is tending to some flowers outside of the shop. Her peripheral vision just happens to catch Hunter's white hair. Gaia gets some butterflies in her stomach and a smile on her face. Gaia looks over to Hunter and her face instantly drops. She rushes over to Hunter and checks up on you.

"Oh my god! Hunter, what happened? Has he been shot? Is he okay? Are you okay?" She frantically lists.

Hunter walks past Gaia back towards the shop.

"I'll explain inside. Quickly."

Gaia looks around the plaza, seeing the dozens of people staring at Hunter. He never was one for subtlety when it comes to anything, but does he not see why an unconscious person may raise some huge suspicions. The police could have been called for all he knows. Gaia shakes her head and follows Hunter. She walks past her flowers, and something catches her attention. She looks at the flowers and bends over the flora. She looks over at the store and sighs.

Hunter pushes the door open with his free hand and enters the shop. He pays no mind to any of the flora in the room, and breezes through the room into the stairwell. He carries you up the stairs and into Gaia's living quarters. He turns to the couches and B-lines it towards them. Hunter lays you down on couch with ease, making sure you aren't hurt in anyway. He did remove the bullet and patch you up to the best of his abilities, but that doesn't mean you can't feel any pain right now.

Against his wishes, you grunt in pain once you hit the couch. You cringe, even in your sleep. Thankfully it doesn't wake you. Hunter sighs as he gazes upon his defeated brother. Luckily your face wasn't disfigured by the explosion, but there was still a moderate burn on your cheek. A few scratches from debris hitting you, and of course the bullet wound. Nothing Hunter can do now but let you rest. You need it more than anyone on the planet.

Hunter hears the door to the stairs open and the pounding of feet ascending the short floors. In seconds Gaia walks around the corner and looks around her house. She sees Hunter standing over you and quickly shuffles close to that location. She looks down at you and covers her mouth.

"Wha- how is he?" She gasps.

"He'll live, I think. He got shot too. I'm not a doctor so I can't give a full diagnosis on him. I just did the best I could to keep him alive."

Hunter crosses his arms and shakes his head. Gaia kneels down close to you and places her hand on your chest. Her hand is raised every few seconds by your slow paced breathing. It's a good sign you still have a normal breath rate. Hunter places his hand on Gaia's shoulder for comfort.

"I remember when you used to come here like this," she snickers but the laughter is obviously covering unhappy memories. "You'd be bleeding and broken, but a smile on your face. You always thought it was a victory." Hunter stares down at Gaia. He sees a tear fall onto the carpet, dampening the one spot. "You may have stopped some operation or another but you were on the verge of death every time. Is that worth it to you?" She finishes, staring up at Hunter with glistening eyes filled with tears.

Hunter can't look at Gaia the way she is now. She's trying to guilt him by using you and her own emotions. He doesn't want to let that get in the way of anything. He doesn't want that to change himself or what he does. He can't divert from this path no matter what. Gaia knows this, but she doesn't accept it. What she does accept is that stare she's giving him. They both know that he's weak to it.

"Is it, Hunter? Can you look me in the eye and say that it's worth it?"

Hunter cringes. He clenches his fist but quickly jams it in his pocket and keeps it there, no matter how uncomfortable it feels.

"It's worth it to me. I know (Y/N) will be fine, so it shouldn't matter," he sternly states, not looking into Gaia's eyes.

Gaia's green hair starts to drape into her face like curtains for a show. She slides her hair behind each ear, first the left side then the right.

"So you want (Y/N) to be like you? What about the time you found where they were keeping the elemental children?"

Hunter's face and fists tighten at the sound of those words – the recollection of that event.

"You fought dozens of elementals, blew up the base, was caught in the explosion, and then shot at. You came to me almost drenched in blood as if you showered in it," she weeps.

It's true. Hunter found a new breed of elemental children. It was the second hardest fight of his life. There was at least sixty kids wanting to grind Hunter to dust. Hunter killed them all, just like he did when he first encountered elemental children. He split open their heads, broke their necks, beat them to death. There was no choice in the matter. Some of the kids were so deformed from the elements that you could barely call them children anymore. Ones subjugated to the powers Gaia has were mutated versions of nature. Plants were growing out of their skin, grass forming where hair should be. They had a fraction of Gaia's powers but they used it effectively.

Hunter's arm was broken, his skull was fractured, ribs broken. He could barely see since blood was flowing into his eyes. Knowing he couldn't kill them all he decided to blow up the base. Unfortunately, due to his injuries, he was caught in the explosion. He barely survived, crawling out of the rubble like an ant escaping his home that some child crushed for fun. Through blind luck he made it to Gaia's house and collapsed instantly. That's the first time Gaia broke up with Hunter. That's when she begged him to leave the Hierarchy alone.

"Do you want (Y/N) to end up like you? Beaten to a pulp every day? You may not want a family... a family with me," she sobs. "But I know (Y/N) wants to return to Elsa. He has someone to come back to. Someone who's waiting for his return."

Hunter turns away from Gaia and heads to the stairs. Gaia stands up and marches after him.

"Don't walk away from me!" She shrieks.

Gaia grabs Hunter's arm. Hunter breaks free, spins to face her and grabs her shoulders.

"You think I like this?" He shouts. "You think I like seeing my brother on the brink of death! You think I liked leaving Rain behind?"

Gaia stops for a moment, shocked by Hunter's outburst. He's never once raised his voice to her. Hunter pants after letting out those words. His blinking has sped up and he refuses to look at Gaia. His eyes look to the floor but his mind is elsewhere. His grip loosens on Gaia's shoulders, which she appreciates.

"Hunter... what happened to Rain?" She calmly asks, holding in the tears.

Hunter shakes his head.

"He..."

Hunter stops and glances over to you.

"Let's... talk outside. Maybe get lunch or something. I just need a break."

Gaia slowly nods.

"Whatever you need."

The two leave the house, leaving you alone. Thankfully you slept through their entire conversation and have no knowledge of anything that happened. However, about twenty minutes later, you start to stir. You begin to really feel the aching of your muscles and the pain throughout your body. Your eyes slowly start to open but even that hurts. You let out a huge moan as you really feel your body.

"God... fuck... It's like I was hit... by a train. No... no, that would probably feel better," you mumble.

Without moving your body at all you take in your surroundings, which is basically just the ceiling. You very carefully look to the left and see some of Gaia's belongings.

"Am I at Gaia's?"

You slide your legs off the couch and lift your body up. Your feet firmly land on the ground while your back rests against the couch. You let out a few breaths after that movement. It really took a lot out of you, and that really sounds pathetic on your part. You suddenly hear the door open, breaking the eerie silence that filled your senses before. You look towards the door, wondering who that could be.

"Gaia!" A very flamboyant and excited voice calls out.

Your eyes widen when your hear it.

"Matt... no..."

You then see Matt strut into the room with two bags. He looks over at you and smiles.

"Well, that's a new look for you. I'm assuming you're hurt so I'll keep my jokes to a minimum but do you mind if I catch a glance?" He asks.

You have no idea whether he's joking or not, but you have a feeling his happy mood will be quickly destroyed within minutes.

"Oh, (Y/N), you HAVE to see these shirts I got," he starts, digging into his bags.

He pulls out a sweater-like shirt that seems to have a cloud design.

"This one is for me, see, and..." He pulls out another, similar sweater but it's filled with Rain drops. "And this one if for Rain. Cute, right? It's cause we're like, the perfect couple. A compliment to each other. Can't have one without the other, you know," he chuckles. "Speaking of which," he realizes, looking around. "If you're back that means Rain should be around, no? I want to show him the shirts. Is he using the little boys' room or did he go to our place?"

You cringe at his happiness. Not because you hate it, but because it's going to be crushed, molded, and transformed into possibly depression.

"Matt... you might want to..." You attempt to stand up and walk towards him.

You instantly feel flooded with pain and fatigue. You grab your stomach and fall to one knee, succumbing to the physical pain you've been feeling this entire time.

Matt rushes to your side and helps you stand.

"(Y/N)! Are you okay?"

"Yeah... total... no... no I'm not," you admit, failing to even lie to yourself. "But Matt... maybe you're the one who should sit down."

"Me?" He snickers. "I can stand on my own. You're the one who should sit."

"No... no," you shake your head.

You release yourself from Matt and stand across from him, using every ounce of strength you have to stand.

"Matt... Rain's not here. He's not at your home either."

"Then where is he?" He asks, not even remotely expecting what you have to say.

You sigh and try to find the words. Your eyes begin tearing up at the mere thought of it. Matt sees this and tilts his head to the side, perplexed.

"Matt... We went down to Atlantica and... Ursula... she tried to blow up the base. Rain kept the ocean from crushing us but..." Tears start coming down your face like a waterfall. "He... he couldn't come with us."

Matt's face slowly drops at the realization of what you're saying. His once prominent smile now sinking to a frown. His once happy eyes now filling with tears.

"He told me... he thanked me for being his friend... He told me that it was his decision. He... wanted me to tell you that... that he loved you," you sniff, trying as hard as you can to get the words out. "Rain... he's dead, Matt. I'm so sorry. I'm so, so sorry. I tried so hard to find another way. I didn't want this to happen but... he..."

Matt drops the bags and shirts on the ground. He clenches his fists, relaxes them, and then clenches them again. His face changes from surprised, sad, angry, confused, back to angry, then sad once more. He looks up at you, tears now pouring from both of your eyes.

"My... my Rain is... dead? Is that why the sky... it cries for him? You... you led him to death?" He accuses, the last part angrier.

"No! Matt there was no other way. Rain himself said it!"

"He... no! NO! My Rain can't die! No! He's everything to me and YOU TOOK HIM!" He screams.

Matt bolts out the door in a second. You try to chase after him but your legs collapse under you, sending you to the floor. Matt runs through Tiger Plaza; his tears mixing with the rain. He runs through the streets with no regard for the people around him, pushing aside any and all who are in his way. His clothes dampen every second due to the heavy rain, which just messes with him even more.

He finally reaches home, panting heavily. He bursts through his door and runs upstairs, not bothering to shut the front door. He rushes to his room and stops in front of a dresser. He kneels down, opens the bottom drawer to reveal a small box. He takes it out, places the box beside him and rips open the lid. A very detailed and beautifully made gun rests on a fluffy pillow. Matt grabs it, shoves it in his mouth and waits a moment. His mind is so filled with sorrow and grief that he has absolutely no idea what he's doing right now, or has any logic in his mind. He holds the gun tight, squints his eyes and pulls the trigger.

Click

Matt opens his eyes, wondering why it didn't fire. He pulls the gun out of his mouth and looks down at it, tidbits of water and tears still dripping from his face and hair. In his vision he sees the clip to the gun and a note sitting inside the box. He grabs the note and reads it.

Dear Matt,

You left the clip in it again like you always do. I'm aware you have the right to have this gun, but please obey some sort of regulation. I got this crafted for decoration, not for killing. So please, think before you fire this thing.

Your love, Rain.

Matt begins balling after reading that last part. He looks at the gun once more, decorated with black and blue. Matt looks down at the grip, seeing his blue name carved into the black metal. He flips it over and sees Rain's name, black, carved into the blue side. He holds the gun tightly and slouches over, his forehead hitting the floor. He can't control his body anymore so he looks horrendous as he cries. He can't stop it. No matter how hard the rain is coming down outside, it doesn't compare to the amount of tears Matt will spill right now.

XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX

Hunter and Gaia rest against the side of her store, out of the prying eyes of the plaza. They can't see much there, and the people wandering won't see them unless they really look. Gaia, knowing that this was a serious topic summoned a bush to cover them. It's a good thing she did too, as she was crying more than Hunter was – not that she had much to compete with. Hunter didn't shed a single tear. While her face may be drenched in tears and rain, his had something else. Rain, of course, but more prominent was melancholy. His face was flooded with it, whether he wanted to admit it or not. Hunter is known for his lighthearted face and even his more serious one. Rarely does his face dawn such sorrow.

"So... he's dead? No way he could have survived?" She says, sniffing to hold back the tears.

"I'm not sure. In normal circumstances I would say Rain could have used the water to summon a shield around him... but he was exhausted. I don't think he could have made it. Even if he did he would be back by now."

Gaia shakes her head.

"That's another one of us down. That means Elsa and I are the only ones left," she sighs, realizing her own little species is quickly dying out, not that there were many to start with, but the thought of them all dead shakes her to the core.

Hunter looks to Gaia in her weakened state. He wraps his hand around her shoulder, bringing her closer so he can comfort the green haired woman. Her hair somewhat mixes with Hunter's white hair. She snuggles into his neck, still tearing a bit.

"Are you leaving again?" She quietly asks.

Hunter quickly inhales as if he's about to answer. He pauses, exhales and closes his eyes.

"Yes."

Gaia clenches her teeth. She shakes her head and stands up, breaking out of Hunter's grip. Hunter stares at her with confusion.

"I can't do this anymore Hunter. I've said it before but... I'm serious now. I'm not going to wait for you to either settle down or die. If you leave to wherever you're going, then we're not getting back together," she adamantly states.

Gaia takes a few steps away from Hunter, leaving him to think of what that means. His decision is not an easy one, but no important decision is. Hunter shakes his head slowly as he watches her walk away.

"I'm going to go check on (Y/N)," she informs, letting him know where she'll be.

She turns the corner, leaving Hunter to wallow. Hunter stares at his knee, watching the rain absorb into his jeans. He slaps his knee, letting it bounce back like a metronome. He stops it once it centers by resting his wrist on it. His hand droops down, cupping a slight portion of his leg.

XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX

Gaia walks up the stairs and starts to walk towards the couch. Her steps are interrupted by something, as she kicks what feels to be fleshy.

"OOOWW!" You wail.

Gaia looks down with a mix of surprise and regret.

"(Y/N)! I'm so sorry! I didn't... what are you doing here? Wait, you're awake!" She exclaims as dozens of thoughts push through her mind to the surface, desperate to be the one she says.

You cough, hurt from Gaia's kick to the shoulder.

"Matt... Matt was here. I tried to chase him but... I..."

Gaia kneels down and helps you to your feet, positioning herself under your shoulder to give you a human crutch.

"Here, come on. Let's get you to the couch first."

Gaia leads you back to the couch slowly and with ease. She doesn't want to push you any harder. She can feel how tense your muscles are, and can see the slight twitching. If that wasn't enough for her, every time you moved you cringe. It's not a good situation right now, and she wants to help as best she can. Once she gets you on the couch she sits opposite to you on the table. She intertwines her fingers and leans in close. You squirm to get comfortable, but you can't seem to find a good position. It's difficult since moving hurts every fiber of your being.

"Can... can I get you anything?" Gaia sheepishly asks, unsure what to say or do for you.

You chuckle at her attempts to help. Not that you don't want it, but there's nothing she can really do.

"Can you knock me out? That'd be nice," you joke.

Gaia's face drops, unamused by your joke.

"No, Gaia. You can't do anything. I just have to relax. Maybe... maybe I wouldn't be in this position if I took it a little easier. Gave my body more rest." You sigh. "But, whatever. I pay for my mistakes."

You hear the door open and footsteps hit the hardwood floor. You can only assume it's Hunter.

"Hunter!" You shout. "How are we..."

You want to finish but you see Gaia's face switch to a fearful one. You use your strength to roll over and look towards the stairwell. There stands Alistair – a smirk on his face and swagger in his step.

"Ahhhhhh, shit," you mumble.

Gaia tenses up. Her body freezes and she has no clue what to do right now. Fear has its grip on her and it's not letting go any time soon. Alistair casually walks up to you both, stopping a foot away.

"How... how did you find this place?" Gaia stutters.

Alistair smirks.

"Please. I've always known where you were, Gaia."

Gaia curls into herself out of insecurity. To think she's been trying to hide from the Hierarchy for all this time, yet he knew where she was. It leaves a terrifying feeling within her.

"And you," he says, turning towards you. "Did I not warn you about pushing yourself? Nobody is invincible. Looks like if you're to be any help I'll have to patch you up myself."

You can only imagine what that could mean.

"And what does that mean? How exactly are you patching me up?" You inquire, your voice very weak lacking any authority or demand or respect.

"You'll see when we get there."

This arouses some suspicion with you.

"Get there? What do you mean?"

Before Alistair can respond Hunter enters the room. He sees Alistair and instinctively enters a fighting stance. Alistair cocks his head back to glance over his shoulder. He sees Hunter's actions and chuckles.

"Calm down Hunter. I'm not here for a fight," he reassures.

"Then what ARE you here for," Hunter questions.

Alistair steps to the left and turns, making sure everyone is within his field of view.

"I'm here to transport us to Sanfransokyo. I can't wait for you two to find your way there, and this time you'll accept my generous offer."

Hunter crosses his arms and looks away, shunning Alistair.

"Besides," the Monarch continues. "(Y/N) will have time to recuperate on the plane."

You look to your brother to see his reaction to it. Hunter is still looking away from Alistair, so you have no idea what he's thinking. Your best bet is that he has little to no desire in taking up your father's proposition. However, the mention of getting some aid does strike your fancy. Alistair probably has something to help you out.

"Hunter... I can't say I'm against the idea of resting up," you say. "Besides, it's better than sneaking aboard a plane, especially in my condition."

Hunter turns to you, seeing your state. You have truth in your words and he knows it. There's no way around it this time. He needs to accept Alistair's help for your sake, and the sake of his mission.

Hunter begrudgingly turns to Alistair.

"Fine. We'll go with you," he regrettably agrees.

Alistair smiles, claps his hands then shakes them slightly.

"I'm honoured to have my two loving sons accompany me for the ride," he says in a tone that makes you wonder if he's actually serious or not. "Let's go. We have little time."

Alistair walks up to you. He kneels down and slips his hands under your back and thighs to get a good balance. He stands up with you dangling in his arms. This isn't the best feeling for you right now, knowing that you're both enemies and that he could literally crush you at any moment. But you can't argue much right now. Alistair walks with you in his arms passed Hunter and towards the stairs.

"There's a limo waiting outside Tiger Plaza for us. We'll be waiting," Alistair informs.

Hunter gives a slight nod to acknowledge his father's words. Knowing this, Alistair finally leaves the room and heads to his limo with you. Hunter stands alone. His eyes are fixed on Gaia, who's as still as a statue. The shaking has since gone away and replaced with the desire to just freeze up and die, or in her case, grow bark and become a tree.

Hunter kneels down and places his hand on Gaia's shoulder. She doesn't react in the slightest, as if her entire body is numb and nothing will phase her. Hunter's hand might as well be a fly landing on someone's sweater. Gaia, extremely slowly, turns her head towards Hunter. She stares him with her emerald eyes, piercing through his head with her glare alone.

"Go. Go with that monster. It's not like you want to stay with me anyway," she says, her words filled with spiteful acid.

Hunter takes his hand off Gaia and droops his head to the ground. He pushes off his knee and rises to his feet, standing tall and casting a shadow over Gaia.

"I... just want..."

Gaia snickers.

"You want Alistair to die, that's it. That's all you care about. It doesn't matter who gets hurt along the way," she scolds.

Hunter silently sighs. He turns around and walks away from the woman who has touched his mind and heart more than anyone else could ever hope to. He clenches his fist knowing that she may never forgive him once he leaves this building, and that the woman he loves will disappear without a trace.

"I love you, Gaia. I'm sorry," he whispers quiet enough for her not to hear it.

XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX

Alec drives through the rainy streets of Arendelle. This rain came out of nowhere and is pouring down hard. A little water didn't bother him, but this was just ridiculous. He takes a turn into a driveway of a simple apartment complex. The apartment decorated with black steel balconies for each apartment. Judging by those balconies alone, the apartment stands about fifteen stories tall. Alec parks in the visitor parking and shuts off his luxury deep blue car.

Every important member of the Hierarchy has some sort of custom luxury car in different colours, shapes, and sizes. They all have bullet proof glass with resistant plating along the exterior. They're basically built like tanks without the massive cannon plopped on top of them. The only one who doesn't use one of these augmented vehicles is Alistair, who is driven around in a basic limousine. Funny, since he's considered the most important of them all, but he refuses it. It could be because of his pride, or maybe it's his overconfidence that nobody can hurt him.

Alec looks towards the tall building and sighs. He gets out of the car and quickly walks to the entrance of the apartment to get out of the disastrous weather. Once he enters he instantly gets a feel for his surroundings. There is a small portion to the right where people check in or talk to the owners. That would be his first stop. The rest of the lobby is pretty basic. At the far ends of the room there are two separate pathways, one leading to the mail and the other to the garbage room. The two elevators face Alec from the other end of the room, their steel coloured doors reflecting a distorted version of himself back at him. There are a few blue, tattered chairs littering different portions of the lobby as well to poorly imitate a waiting area or something.

Alec takes a right and approaches the desk. He sits his right hand on the desk and leans on that, turning his body to the left. An elderly woman approaches him, smiling when she sees who it is.

"Ah, Alec. Good to see you. I assume you'd like your key?"

Alec warmly nods.

"Yes, thank you. Sorry I haven't been here more."

The woman turns away to get the key.

"Oh, that's quite alright. You pay and you're a pleasant fellow," she says, searching the plethora of keys hanging off the wall.

She grabs one and meets Alec once more. She slides the key to him which he snatches up.

"Thank you."

Alec marches to the elevator and clicks the arrow that points up. He waits less than ten seconds for one of the elevators to accept him. He walks in and clicks the seventh floor. The elevator closes its mouth, securely locking Alec within it. It rises to the seventh floor and lets the Westergaard be free.

Alec immediately takes a left and passes at least four separate doors before reaching his; sitting comfortably at the end of the hall. Once reaching the door Alec pulls out the key and slides it into the lock. After turning it and hearing a satisfying *click* he pushes the door open. He pulls out the key, tosses it in his pocket, then focuses on the apartment. It divides in two as soon as you walk in. If you walk to the right you're immediately led to a fairly cramped kitchen area. All it has is a fridge, stove, washing machine, cupboards, and a hanging microwave. That is all cramped into one small corridor that leads to edge of the main room. The main room – or the way if you turn left – is the bulk of this apartment. It gracefully allows the small hall for the kitchen but quickly takes it back as soon as it can, which is where the dining table resides. An old, stained couch rests up against the wall opposite the kitchen. An old TV – so old it still has bunny ears for reception – is tucked into the corner of the room. There's an old VCR in the space beneath it, but that's all. A few plants decorate the remaining corners to give it life, but there's not much else to look at.

Alec takes a left and passes through the main room into a hallway that diverges from the gluttonous main area. On the left is a small bathroom, and straight ahead is the bedroom. He opens the door, letting out a loud creek as it get open, possibly the first time in months. He looks around the desolate room that only houses a wooden framed bed and another timber based dresser. Alec sighs as he walks towards this dresser. He opens it up, seeing if it has anything else to wear that isn't damp. There is a single outfit that is neatly placed within the dresser. A pair of black jeans idle at the base of the dresser along with some dress shoes. There is a brown trench coat that dangles on a hanger beside a white dress shirt and black suit vest. Alec backs away from the wardrobe and closer to the bed. He takes out his flask of whiskey which houses the remainder of what his secretary bought him, the removes the suit jacket all together. He takes off his shirt, pants, and shoes, exposing his body to the slight chill of the apartment.

He approaches the outfit within the wardrobe and puts that on instead. First the jeans, then the shoes, the shirt, then the vest. After putting on the majority of the outfit, he reaches for the brown trench coat. It has six buttons lined down the right side and six small slivers on the left to accompany then. The jacket folds outwards towards his upper chest, just under the ever present collar that stands around his neck. The sleeves go right to his wrists, perfectly fitting him. Alec checks the insides of the coat to see a small pocket, large enough for his flask. He smiles as he stuffs the whiskey filled container there.

Now that his change is complete, Alec places his old clothes neatly into the wardrobe, mimicking the way his current outfit was placed. This is an old tactic the Hierarchy uses often. In their various safe houses they usually have one set of clothes in a closet. When a member needs a new outfit they grab the one from the drop off, then replace it with their own. The catch is that every single one of the closets, wardrobes, dressers, and others are all actually highly advanced. They clean and make ready the new clothes placed into them for the next person who comes along.

Alec looks down at the coat, curious who left this here and how long ago that might have been. He casually walks out of the bedroom and into the bathroom since it has the only mirror in this place. He sees himself and cringes a tad.

"Ugh, not really me. Whatever," he accepts, running his hands through his damp, brown hair.

Alec turns around and grabs the flask, placing it in his coat pocket. Can't leave without that, of course. Not a moment later he hears the creak of the entrance door. Alec raises his brow then starts walking to the exit of the room he's in.

I can only imagine who this will be. I doubt it'll be him.

Alec opens the door and uses the momentum to shut the door behind him as he goes to meet whoever entered the apartment. He slowly paces through the hall until he catches a glimpse at a man. The man looks like a professional body guard – definitely not the person Alec wanted to see, but also the person Alec anticipated on seeing. The tall, muscular, suited man sees Alec and slowly approaches him.

"Mr. Westergaard? I was told to give you something," he informs, reaching into his suit pocket.

Alec patiently awaits whatever item is waiting for him. The man pulls out a small, grey ball with electronic red lines paving through some of it. The man carefully hands it to Alec then takes a step away from him.

"This was all I was instructed to do. Goodbye, Mr. Westergaard," the man says, promptly making his exit.

Alec keeps his eyes on the man as he leaves, waiting for his exit. Once Alec is alone, he surveys the object that was given to him. The red lines seem to converge to one circle on the left side of it. Alec chuckles, tosses it in the air, and then catches it.

"I'm not surprised you have one of these. You probably got it from Alistair Krei. Hah, sorry, Duke Krei. I remember Monarch doesn't like anyone calling someone else Alistair."

Alec holds the ball in his hand, staring at it. He forces his thumb into the circle that the red lines converge to. It starts glowing a deep red. The ball suddenly floats out of Alec's hand and moves a foot away from him. Lights of all colours begin emitting from the red lines to create a holographic figure. Because of the technology, once wouldn't be able to tell it's a hologram. The hologram creates a very unique individual. His auburn hair, prominent sideburns, the small amount of freckles on the nose, and even the ambitious look housed in his green eyes.

The man smiles.

"Alec... brother... it's been too long," he greets.

"That's not necessarily my fault. You went after Alistair after all, Hans."

"Yes, well let's not discuss war right now. I hear you have something urgent to tell me? It must be, taking the risk to contact me now."

Alec snickers.

"I'm genuinely surprised you even answered me," he admits, reaching into his coat pocket and taking a swig of whiskey.

Hans sighs, crosses his arms, and shakes his head.

"That's going to be the death of you, you know?" He voices his concern.

Alec pulls the flask away, caps it, and places it back in his pocket.

"I'll die long before this can take effect," he says, brushing Hans' concern off like nothing. "Anyway, why I contacted you. I need your help with something."

"And what could YOU possibly need MY help with?" Hans questions, doubtful that Alec really has a problem.

Alec sighs, thinking of how to explain the situation. Finding no way to beat around the bush, he decided the blunt approach.

"Do you remember Erik?"

Hans thinks for a moment, his eye brows voicing his deep thought.

"Wait... Erik... I remember seeing that name! He went to an insane asylum, right?"

Alec nods.

"The same one. What else do you know about him, if anything?"

Hans starts walking around Alec.

"Not much. Most data on him has been wiped clean, not that I really had an interest in him before."

"Well you should. He wants to bring the whole Hierarchy down. I know you care little about Alistair, but don't you want control of it?"

Hans stops walking and turns his head towards Alec.

"But it's our families' future. Why would he want to destroy it?" Hans asked, slightly distressed.

"From what I know, father is the one who sent him to that asylum. It's fair to assume he wants to tear down everything our father wanted."

Hans continues to circle around Alec like he was his prey. His right hand raised to his chin as he thinks.

"Sounds like he belonged in that asylum. Very well, Alec. This sounds like a family matter, so it's fitting that we should find him."

Alec smirks.

"Exactly."

Hans stops pacing in front of Alec.

"I'll dig up as much information as I can about him. Maybe I can find something useful. Do you know how to find him?"

Alec shrugs.

"He left a note for Alistair. He said in the note that I would be able to find him, so I can only assume I have the knowledge stored in my head somewhere."

"Let's just hope you haven't drowned that information with whiskey," Hans remarks.

Alec rolls his eyes.

"I'll focus on finding Erik, you find out what happened to him, and why he would be gunning for Alistair and the Hierarchy."

Hans stops facing Alec.

"Right, that shouldn't be a problem. I'll contact you when I find something. You do the same if you find him.

Alec nods.

"Got it. Good luck, brother."

"You too."

Hans' image starts spazzing out, his clothes changing colours and his face morphing. The lights retreat back into the black and red ball. Alec sticks his hand out for the ball, and it falls right into his hand. Alec stashes the device in another of his pockets.

"All I have to do is find an insane person... great... should be easy."

Alec reaches into his pocket for another shot of whiskey to prepare him for his daunting task.