V

 The house of that soldier looked like my somewhat, but it was really far from becoming a home for me. However, good or bad I would have to adapt to what was going to find my brother again.

- I'm sorry I did not introduce myself before. - He broke the silence - My name is Paul Collins. Do not be afraid of me.

- I'm not afraid. I just want to see my brother again.

- Sooner or later you'll find him. No need to worry about it.

- You do not understand.

- Yes I understand. My father was captain of the naval force and died an enemy attack and my younger brother was completely torn apart when he tried to save an innocent civilian. Since then I am alone, just like you.

- I'm sorry.

- It's all right. If you must know, I know something that can help you find your brother.

 He could not have told me anything better this time round. From there I started to pay more attention to all he spoke.

- If he was taken by the army of the Southern Union the only way you see him again and try to save him is becoming captain and joining the army.

- There is no other way?

- I'm sorry, but no.

- I'll do anything to save him. I did nothing for him, Axel is stuck there for me.

- You put your own life at risk in this war?

- Yes. But how do you know that the war will continue?

- I have long experience. In addition, such an issue can not be solved with conversations. As much as I want them to understand, I know this will not happen. We have no time to lose from now.

 I know, what was a fourteen year old girl doing in a war? However, my brother was a priority in my life, regardless of my age. If Paul, my adoptive father was willing to help me, it meant that I was to move forward with it.

 New government news arrived and said it would extend beyond the expected. Trading would take over a year to happen, since they were gathering information and other things related to such a Council that I did not understand in fact. That was a relief, because even though I tried, it was difficult for me to become what Paul wanted me to become. My thoughts were completely turned to my father and my brother, because I had not yet overcome it.

 I tried various stupid things to forget it. For a whole year I did not dare to train as it should therefore only focused on me forget everything. One year, you ask? Yes, one year. Really negotiations were taking longer than expected. A whole year of training thrown away.

 Collins did not know what to do with me. I tried to change my name, painting my hair to not see Axel image in the mirror every time I looked at me. I tried even hit my head hard somewhere to try to have amnesia. Some days I did not want to get out of bed in the other I wanted to disappear. I wanted to take my own life because I felt useless.

 My little girl, I want you to grow even stronger and make my death a reason for you to fight with even more determination.

 I remembered my father's words. What I was doing was just dishonoring his last request.

This is not goodbye.

 That's what Axel told me before leaving. What was I doing? While he was trying to be strong to try to find me I was there, crying and acting like a child spoiled did not want to suffer. But no human can escape from suffering, however small it may be. It was then that I should take all my strength and courage to train, after all had already completed fifteen and lost of life. Now I turned sixteen and had some notion of the world.

 Paul knocked on the door of my room.

- I feel bad for not being able to do anything for you. If I could redeem your brother.

- I should feel bad for making you worry about me. I can not escape what is in front of me. Axel must be wondering what to do and I should think the same thing.

- Are you willing to train going forward?

- Yes. This time it's for real.

 After a year can see Paul smiling. I think my father should also be smiling for my answer.

IV

- I hope you feel well here, as you can no longer escape. Wait a minute, our Marechal want to talk to you.

 Axel was pushed into the military base. After he had left Rena, none of the injuries that caused the soldiers meant something. The others who passed by did not seem to care about him.

- I cannot believe what they are doing.

- They do not come anywhere this way. Once started the war, this truce will be for nothing.

 The boy began to pay more attention to the conversation of discretely soldiers. A truce? If it was this way, he could escape to find Rena, which should certainly be trying to return home.

- And worst of all - the soldier continued - is that there is no set time for this negotiation.

 One of them snorted.

- As it is it will not end anytime soon. They should accept that there is not treated for it.

- For me this is just a blame game. The Western Alliance has full participation of that, there is nothing to talk about.

- Exactly. The New America has admitted he tried to sabotage all our armaments industries, but certainly they could not have done it alone.

- You're right. The Western Alliance is a reference as to the knowledge of weapons and they would be relatively easy to sabotage all our arsenal.

- The problem is the East Asia. It protects the Western Alliance under all consequences.

- Do you think they are involved?

- No, they would not need to do this because they have stability. However, the business partnership of theselooks really important.

 Axel was not really understand what it all meant. Anyway, the only thing that mattered was to find Rena.

- It's not nice to hear the conversation of others, boy.

 He froze in place to hear the voice of the marshal.

- Come with me.

 With no other option, the boy followed him quietly and without looking around. Once reached a similar to an office place, The Marshal motioned for Axel entered and then closed the door.

- I'm sorry for the way in which my soldiers treated you, but what we want in fact is that you act with us as general.

- What? I do not serve this country.

- I know. But you should not live in a country like that. They see their soldiers as mere toys of war and not as people, the death of your father is proof of that.

 Axel hung his head.

- So - Marshal continued - we are calling you here. I do not want to force anything, but there is something you need to know and do not want you to think that what I say is a lie. - He took an some papers from the drawer - Your father's injury could be healed. They did not do it by mere carelessness.

 The boy did not know what to believe. Realizing this, the marshal handed him the papers, which contained Carter Oreans' copies of the exams . It was not necessary medical training to see the exams there was a way to save him.

 The bitterness took Axel. They lied and left his father to die that way. Every time he remembered the letter and as Rena and he suffered, the anger grew rampant way as to leave him blind.

- I'll give you time to think.

- No, it's not accurate.

 The Marshal waited patiently.

- I'll join you.

- That's very good, but are you sure of that?

- Yes. Even because you will not liberate me, right?

- That's right. Whether or not you'd be stuck here. But now with your decision things can change a bit. As we have an indefinite truce ahead, feel free to stay here, since your home is far and you need training.

- What about my sister?

- Soldiers of the Western Alliance found her in the rubble.

 At least she would be safe for a while. That's what Axel thought.

III

 For a long time I was in the rain, mourning the loss of two people so important and they were taken from me once. What would I do from now on? I thought of returning home, once I knew where the keys were. At least I would be safe and in one place I knew. There was still some food and could turn around for a few days. And the other day? I did not know. I not even want to think about it now.

 As I was getting up, I heard the noise of a car and urgent steps around. I reached down to not be seen and then saw the dark blue clothes of the Western Alliance, my country. Still I did not know what could happen and kept me hidden. All the people there were killed for this reason they would not take to leave.

 However I was wrong. One of the men who were nearby saw me and approached slowly, realizing that I was scared. As he got closer, I saw your brown skin shining with sweat of battle, his green eyes and brown hair. He seemed to be 30 and transmitted certain gentleness and tenderness.

- Are you alright? Why are you here? This is not a place for a little girl like you.

 I could not answer. Every time I thought about how I'd gotten there, the image of Axel being taken filled my mind and tears began to flow.

- My brother ... Axel ... He's gone.

 He put his hands on my shoulders.

- I'm really sorry for you. Come on, you can not stay here.

 I got up reluctantly and followed him, with blurred vision because of tears. He helped me into the car and no army soldier seemed to care about me than the one who helped me. Silence hung in the air along with the smell of sweat, blood and dust that were in their uniforms.

 I followed all the way of the military car that took me further away from my house to get to a headquarters. The car door opened and the soldiers went down, however, the man was at the door waiting for me to help me.

- Do not go away from me.

 That's what he said as we walked toward a gray-haired man and too harsh appearance. Immediately he looked at me and at the soldier who saved me.

- She was lost in the rubble.

 The gray-haired man frowned at me.

- What if she's a spy?

- What? - I covered my mouth with my hands, but it was too late. They both looked at me and I was forced to continue - I'm here because ... - I had to hold back tears, but could not - Because of my brother, Axel. He ... He gone ... And my father too.

- Your father?

 I nodded, wiping away tears.

- Who is your father?

- Carter Oreans.

 The men looked at each other, shocked.

- Are you Rena Oreans?

- Yes.

 They showed more interest.

- What happened to your brother?

- He was taken by the red dressed soldiers.

 After that they did not ask me anything. The only thing they were debating was what they were going to do to me, since I could not stay at the military base of them.

- I take care of her.

- But we need you in the war.

- I...

  They were interrupted by another blond soldier who carried a paper in hands.

- Excuse me sir. I have news of Parliament.

- What is?

- They and the Southern Union entered a period of truce indefinitely, as they are also with few soldiers. They do not know how long this negotiation can last, since involve everyone. This can take days or years, no one knows. For now we are all exempt until new instructions from Parliament.

- Understood. Tell everyone that are not required until the next government orders. - He looked at the soldier who saved me - It seems that you can take care of her for now. Cheer for this negotiation delay to the fullest.

- I'm hoping to take a peaceful negotiation and it all ends as soon as possible. Anyway, I think it will take a long time to resolve this issue as it is a delicate matter. - He looked at me - Come on, let's go home.

 No matter what he meant by home. As much as I tried, I could not stop thinking about my real home, where Axel and I should never have left.

II

 However, my worst nightmare was yet to come.

 The streets were deserted, as we advanced the limits of our city more signs of the war appeared. Blood, dust and buildings in ruins. It was like entering a ghost town.

- Wait.

 Axel froze. I followed his gaze and forced a bit my eyes to be able to see two red dressed men.

- We'll have to take another path.

- They want to take you?

- Yes.

 There was nothing where we could hide, so we had no choice but to retreat to take another path.

- It'sthem!

- Do not let them get away!

 Axel shook my hand and had to start running as fast as our legs could carry. It was raining and it was not a point in our favor. However, they were shooting at us and really made mistakes by a few centimeters and we needed to run anyway. My brother held me in his arms and ran even faster the block with them on our heels. The weapons were pointed at us and did not hesitate to shoot.

 I did not see them anymore when we turned the corner, but could still hear them.

- Can you see them?

- No.

 He put me on the floor, panting. We were in a dark, damp alley with some boxes.

- Are you sure about that?

- Yes, they turned in that direction!

 We hid behind the boxes, doing everything possible to them do not to notice us. I heard footsteps and the light of a flashlight.

- Axel ...

- Shh, you'll be fine. Just stay down.

 Axel had a stone in his hands and staring in the lantern light. The soldier walked closer to where we were, but could not overcome the boxes. As soon as they came out of the alley, my brother threw the stone that struck across the street, calling their attention.

- Follow the noise, we can not lose that kid anyway.

 We got up carefully and walked on tiptoe to the exit of the alley. Indeed they had gone to the other side and we take the time to run to the edge of another city. We found a covered place and stayed for there to rest and have more security to keep moving because those soldiers could return at any time. I was cold and curled up next to Axel, who was with his eyes closed.

- We'll be fine, do not worry.

 I snuggled into him and slept for a while.

- Rena, Rena.

 I opened my eyes slowly.

- Let's go. We are out of danger. Most of them must be asleep at this hour.

 I held his hand and we continued our journey as cautiously as possible.

 Finally we were in the nearby town, which was practically uninhabited. The rain washed the blood off the floor, but still left marks. The bodies of dead innocent people were everywhere, along with the soldiers of the enemy and our country were killed. Immediately I thought of my father and looked at Axel; he thought the same thing as me.

- Let's go fast.

 The rain was decreasing as we walked. However, there was nothing except rats walking down the street and some cats that looked at us with their eyes half closed.

 We stopped when we heard sounds of gunfire and a plane cut through the sky. We changed the way and in the end we got a completely devastated area, where all construction had been reduced to ashes. There was more blood than other parts of the city and more dead soldiers. I closed my eyes to not have such still images in my memory, but it was too late.

 Another shot.

 This time, the left hand of Axel was bleeding. I looked around and saw several soldiers dressed in red coming in our direction. This time we had no place to hide and nothing to get lose them. He picked me up again and started running, looking frantically around.

 We stopped at the ruins of a house where my brother put me down and where I felt his embrace. Again I saw him cry, but did not understand the reason.

- I'm so sorry. I can not put you at risk because of me.

 That to me was enough. I started to cry with him, since I wouldn't see him again. Why Axel had to leave me? We could run to safety. However, he seemed hopeless and powerless.

- Please do not cry - he kissed my forehead - you'll see me again, I promise. Take care and look for a safe place with someone who can take care of you. This is not goodbye.

 He turned away from me toward the soldiers, without looking back. The shock and tears prevented me to get up and do something, so all I could do is see my brother being captured and feel completely useless by not being able to do anything for him.

I

I still remember everything. From the beginning to the end.

 At that time I was fourteen and my older brother Axel, eighteen. We were right in the beginning of a war that promised to be the worst and bloodiest of all that humanity has ever seen to date. Our father was serving the air forces and we were alone. We survived for five weeks with what we had at home.

- I hope this ends soon.

 Axel always said that every time we received the newspaper and he saw how the deaths were increasing. I confess that I also thought about it, but my real concern was for my father on the battlefield.

- Axel, is dad okay?

- He's been in many wars before, for sure nothing bad will happen. Come, let's have dinner.

 I followed him to the kitchen when we heard someone knocking on the door urgently. We looked at each other and Axel looked out the window.

- I have a message for the children of Carter Oreans.

  I saw my brother get an letter of messenger hands and close the window.

- It's from dad.

  Dinner did not matter. It was the first time a letter from my father came to us and should certainly be important. We sat on the living room floor and Axel opened the letter quickly, like a bandage. The more he read the contents of the letter, the more my heart quickened.

- What says Axel ?!

 He could not speak. His hands shook.

- Axel? What happened?

 I got no response from him. Axel threw the letter on the floor and stood up quickly, going toward the kitchen. I took the letter and began to read.

"For Axel and Rena,

 I know you must be worried about me, but I ask you not to do that anymore. It's hard for me to say everything I need in a letter, but I have no other way to do it.

 I'm in the center of medical specialties of the army since three days ago. The plane in which I flew was attacked by the enemy and luckily I did not die instantly, but I suffered a severe drilling in the two lungs and there is nothing to do. The doctors gave me four days of life and believe that when you receive this letter I will be dead.

 That's no reason to cry. Axel, being the eldest, I ask you to take care of your sister with your life. From now on the only person she has in the world is you, please do not disappoint her.

  Rena ... My little girl, I want to grow even stronger and make my death a reason for you to fight with even more determination. Axel will be your companion for all the time, always stay with him.

 Finally, I want both of you to overcome this as best together. Throughout the time I was on the battlefield just I thought you two. I'm sorry for leaving you so young and fragile in this cold world. No matter where you are I will always be with you.

 I am proud to have you as my children and this will never change.

Love you.

Carter Oreans ".

 He promised to return. That all would be well and that we would be together again. My tears were wetting the letter and soon a lump formed in my throat. It was extremely difficult to live without our mother, and now even more so without our father. What would we do? How would we survive?

 Axel. How should he be? I got up and went to the kitchen.

 I never thought I would see my brother, always steadfast as a rock, like that: he was with clenched fists on the sink and the tears were streaming down his face. Judging by his expression, the battle against the cry had been lost long ago. In a way I understand his pain, because now all the responsibilities have a new owner.

 I approached subtly and hugged him. Axel was quick to respond to my embrace, which made him cry even more. Suddenly nothing else mattered, it was as if our world had come crashing down and we were finished - when in reality we were - completely lost.

 I have no idea how long we like that, but I suppose it was for several hours as it was when I woke up in my bed and I could hear the footsteps of my brother in the house.

- You are awake.

 He seemed stronger than before, as the expression of that sad and lost boy completely disappeared, giving way to a determined and responsible man. However, I could not get over it so easily, or at least hide it as he was doing.

 The breakfast was on the table waiting for me. While I ate, Axel walked through the house checking locks and more locks. Put locks on the windows and covered all the furniture, to protect them from dust. When you finish there, we'll get out of here. That's what he said.

- Where are we going?

- I do not know. But we can not stay here while this war is underway.

- And why not?

- Because we are going around many attacks and we can not take the risk. We must get out of here as soon as possible.

 Something was strange. I knew Axel well enough to know that there were other reasons why he wanted to leave there and had nothing to do with attacks.

- Axel, what's going on? You never lie

- Do you think I'm lying?

- This is stamped on your face.

 He was reluctant to admit it, but would not budge. We were brothers, we should not have secrets.

 A sigh.

- Okay, okay. Shortly after I have put you in bed, I saw a letter under the door. - He showed a red paper - Before you ask, the letter was for me and it's not something really good.

- What is wrong? Axel, you started talking and has to end.

- They know our father is dead and are chasing me. I can not stay here with you and risk everything.

 I nodded. That was the reason for the change in his expression. Anyway, he was right. I finished my breakfast quickly and followed him out the door. He locked the door and buried the key next to the gate. I held his hand and proceeded to where our feet take us.

ｍｅｒｅｌｙ ａｓｈｅｓ

© to owner

▨ A little introduction ▨

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Hello, minna!!

The story we'll present was made for that contest I told before. Hope you guys enjoy it ^^

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{XX. The End?

 The sound of bodies being thrown, shattered glass and gunfire could be heard from where they were. They could also hear footsteps from one side to the other along the corridor of several people, as well as the noise of the lift. As Matthew had said they should not get out, it was too hard to know everything that was going on and could not do anything about it.
- What do we do?
 Blair pressed firmly the gun that Matthew had given to her.
- You stay here. It's too dangerous outside and for sure no one will find you here. I'll try to help.
 Chiara nodded, wincing even more in the corner of the wall while Blair locked the door after leave.

 Despite being eroded gradually by Matthew gun, Rido seemed unshakable, especially after seeing all employees transformed walking the streets as if they were zombies following his orders.
- I'm tired of this child's play. I have more important things to do.
 Melissa and Dustin invested again, however Rido did not seem concerned about the bruising that was getting. He even seemed to be focused on what was happening on that floor
.- Finally one of the rats decided to appear and play, is not it? Better late than never.
 Dustin understood that it was Blair or even Chiara. Before Rido could leave, the man advanced on him, holding him by the throat and throwing him against the wall.
- Once rat,always rat. It seems I'll have to take care of you first.
 Two shots simultaneously.
- I told you not to interfere. - Matthew said reproachfully.
- I can not just listen to it all and stay there. Chiara is safe.
- Do not think you can hide her from me.
- Rido pressed the intercom button - find and kill any human who is in this company.
 He saw a smile forming on Matthew's face.
- What did you do, your miserable snake?
- Just what you had commanded me. All injections were provided. However, I had their effect disappeared an hour after the application.
 Rido growled, forgetting all the others who were in the room and concentrated only in Matthew, who kept the gun pointed at him.
- It does not matter what I planned. I can die in the next moment, but I will take you with me.
 The Rido speed was not affected by sores in his body, such that Melissa could not prevent the moment when the two crossed one of the glasses composing the walls and fell quickly, with no chance of survival.
- Matthew!
 Melissa could not reach them. The two bodies fell side by side, with no trace of conscience. It was clear that Rido would have survived, but could not say the same thing about the other, whose was human.
 Dustin grabbed Blair and also reached the floor where the winged girl was kneeling beside her brother's body.
- He is...
- I do not know. There is no sign of a wound, nor if he's dead.
 Rido started to get up, staggering. Blair pointed the gun at him, but Melissa stopped her.
- If someone will kill this bastard. - She let the pulse of the other girl slowly - It will be me.
 The claws were ready, but Rido did not seem to mind. He did not even seem to realize what was about to happen, the only thing he did was look at the lifeless body of Matthew on the asphalt.
 A deep stab in the chest was the last thing he felt.
 Melissa had her claws covered  with blood  as well as the eyes covered with tears. As she had done it with her own hands, she felt empty. She knelt beside her brother again, without saying a word.
- I can not believe that everything will end this way. - She finally managed to find the words - After so long, so much effort ... It will all end up like this?
- No, it won't.
 Matthew was standing with difficulty, getting Dustin support to stand, however, almost lost his balance again to see Rido dead in his own pool of blood.
- I had no choice, Matthew.
- It's all right. At least he managed to redeem himself before it's over.
- Redeeming? He tried to kill you!
- But before that, I saw that old Rido. The one that was still human. He repented and decided to break a part of the his body's bones to save me. "I know I was not the best friend of you," he said, "but I want you to take care of everything for me from now on."
 Melissa down the wings, looking for the body of Rido. What happened after that he became what he became? Power, of course. After realizing what was about to happen, it was the only way to redeem himself without appearing weak.
- Dustin!
 Chiara came running to embrace her brother.
- Take care for she does not see the body of Rido.
- Body? There's nothing on the ground.
 Matthew looked in the direction where it should be the body of Rido. However, the only thing that was there was a small spot of blood and a handful of ashes.
- Matthew, this should happen?
-.No. For more mutations that have been made, the basis of everything is still human. And humans do not turn into ashes.
 He approached. There was really nothing that could say that there was a body there, except for the bloodstain. But ... Why were ashes? No mutation would be able to cause a body to become ashes in a few minutes after death. That would indeed be the end? Or just a beginning? Yes, he was sure it was the end, for the words of Rido were clear when he said: "... I want you to take care of everything for me from now on."

{XIX. Just another war

 Rido rose with a jump. Would it be that same girl he saw turning into a monster? He looked intently, and more that were true, it was impossible to believe. She no longer looked like a woman with the mentality of a child, but someone who weighed and acted according to her age and how the experience he wanted her to be: the two wings were there, the sharp nails and sample placed, the wounds healed with the speed. It was a new version of what Dustin was just as Matthew and he had planned for so long.
- What happened? The cat ate your tongue? Or you did not remember the monstrous fault you always despised?
- It's impossible. Matthew tried to cure you all these years and never succeeded.
- That was because I needed the DNA sample from someone who had been completely transformed successfully.
 Matthew entered quietly, walking toward Melissa and Dustin, without taking his eyes from Rido by any second.
- However, it must also be compatible.
- And they were. Luckily I managed to do it without arousing suspicion and now I have my sister back. - He took the badge that was stuck in the lab coat and threw it toward Rido - So do not need more to keep me stuck to you.
- You are nothing but a mere traitor ... And to think I trusted you.
- I also trusted you, until something happens to make you become blind and obsessive. We planned to improve the human specie, but now everything has changed. I do not joined this Rido I'm seeing now, but the one I met at the university and was still human.
- It's ok. If this is your opinion, I can not do anything about it. But I must say I am very sorry for it.
 Dustin nodded to Melissa, that being faster managed to advance on Rido before he could reach Matthew. The knife that was in his hand was away so that was thrown on the floor. The hands of the girl were firm and squeezed his neck mercilessly
.- I will not let you put your dirty hands in Matthew.
- How much loyalty to those who treated you as a guinea pig.
- Are these your last words?
- Mine? No way.
  The glass was shattered one of the capsules when Melissa was thrown into the air. Matthew ran among the pieces of glass and knelt beside her.
- Are you alright?
 The cuts were healing slowly.
- I will not stop until I myself did not kill that bastard. - She prepared the claws.
- I had almost forgotten about you, boy. - Rido was taking off the knife in the left arm that Dustin had shot. - However, you should know that pathetic objects like this do not affect being modified as we ... - He stepped forward, hitting the boy's face with a punch - but I admire your attempt.
 Dustin stumbled, but managed to turn on his heel and hold Rido when  received Melissa thoughts, coming at full speed at the ready claws. Rido kicked the girl away and threw Dustin against another capsule, which also broke into several pieces.
 Only one thing could make him feel pain so that he could not regenerate.
- What did you think of it, Rido?
- You really surprise me.
 Matthew had drawn one pistol from the coat pocket. However, it was not an ordinary gun: was loaded with ammunition made from paraffin containing fluoroantimonic acid diluted, which could burn the skin and at the same time eroding the bones.
- I do not know how you could have as much time to do this, Matthew ... But I know that you will not have the pleasure of firing again against me.

{XVIII. “Did you miss me, Rido?”

- And to think that you would believe it so easily ...
- But of course! How could we know that?
- Now just stay where you are. And I repeat: do not meddle in any form without prior authorization.
- It's ok.
 He looked for a person who was on his side.
- Let's go. Before things get ugly up there.

 Rido expected Dustin exit the capsule.
- Note well, boy. This will be the last image that you have of this country before we end it once and for all. We will soon have company and we will be unbeatable.
- I think so.
- I admire your determination to have chosen to kill the two people still liked you to join me.
- It was not a big deal. I thank Matthew for having the worst part of the job for me.
- This is his work.
 Rido did not understand where it came from so much gratitude for the shape of Matthew. Something in Dustin's voice was also different from what he was accustomed to hearing. It was as if the boy had taken a sudden awareness of injection.
- It is not just his job. He might well have done just what he needed, but he decided to do more.
- What are you talking about? Do not tell me you regretted?
- No, I didn't regret. And I must say that was close.
 The other frowned, digesting the words of the boy gradually until finally understand what was happening. He laughed for a moment, trying to avoid asking a question like that, however, it was inevitable.
- You didn't kill them, right?
- I am happy for do not have to explain.
 Rido grabbed the boy by the collar.- You should be more careful with your jokes, kid. I'm not stupid like all those humans.- And yet you seemed completely convinced.
 Dustin was thrown against the wall with force and speed that he could not believe. Matthew was not kidding when he said that Rido really had modified himself. No human being would be able to have such strength in only one arm.
- You still have time to do what I ordered. Otherwise, though it may be a big waste, but you will be the first to be eliminated.
- It's a pity you think so. Up to five minutes ago I was indispensable to you, is not it?
- You were, before to show yourself which side is. In addition, Matthew will keep you company in the afterlife. That bastard traitor ...
 Rido seemed upset to some extent with what Matthew did, and Dustin could see it very well. However, soon that expression faded completely. He walked with slow steps toward the boy.
- I really regret losing two pieces so valuable in one day, but I do not tolerate traitors.
 Something through the window and reaches Laughed like a missile, knocking him to the floor with a resounding thud. It was a woman with red hair and two black wings on her back. The eyes that looked exactly the Matthew, stared at the body on the floor, waiting with eternal patience he regained consciousness.
- Did you miss me, Rido?

{XVII. Protocol

- You'll be fine from now on. This will only last for a few more seconds.
  He was concerned with the that. According to all calculations and samples that had everything running according to plan soon. However, broke his heart to see her suffering like that, even if it was for a few seconds.
- Please be strong. I don't know what to do if something happens to you.
- Let's start giving progress on it as soon as possible. As of now we have no more time to waste. I must repeat that you are the only person I trust blindly, Matthew.
- I'm aware of that. There is no reason to worry about
- I hope you're right.
- I always have reason. Samples are completed and ready to be injected.
- Excellent.
- However, I would like to ask: valeria really worth using these humans? Certainly there are people more useful around.
- I know what you mean, but I didn't choose everyone out for a simple chance.
Matthew arched an eyebrow.
- All here – Rido quietly continued – were chosen on account of the genetic material.
  The boy showed have understood.

 -That explains the whole battery of tests that you always forced them to.
  Rido smiled. 

- I got everything set up for this moment. I just needed someone to be the first and then continue the process.
  Matthew nodded and closed the door behind him, with a sigh by thinking about work that he would still have ahead, without even knowing what was winning with all this. Anyway, Rido had left absolutely everything in his hands and, thus, could not simply abandon everything.
 Opened the door to the room where Dustin was lying, ready to have more blood samples collected.
- You're free. I don't need more of your samples.
- Are you sure? As far as I know there are many people who need that.
- Everything is under control. Just do me a favor and tell the receptionist to call them here.
  It was not long before Matthew started to apply the injections. Some were more laborious, others less so. However, the worst part of it would not be the injections, but the effects show up later, it provided a headache just by thinking about it ...
- When finished put everyone to sleep for the next 24 hours.
- Yes, Sir.
  The nurse had disappeared from the room, leaving Matthew alone. In fact, he had never seen so many needles in a single day, and all this to satisfy the Rido's desires, that a time like this must be up to where start.
  The intercom rang.
   Matthew sighed.
- From the look on your face I assume all have already received samples.
- I don't plan to see more needles for the next days.
- I'm glad someone like you working with me. I've always had good thoughts on you since when we started the university together.
- Don't start with flattery, Rido. What are you up to?
- I'm not up to anything. - Rido played with an empty cup between the fingers - I'm just thinking that you will be the only human in this company after 24 hours.
- It doesn't bother me at all. I'm exactly well like human.
- It is really is a waste ... A mind so brilliant as his be erased by time.
- I confess that I have no reason to be immortal,
- Melissa is immortal.
- It doesn't matter. By then she will have time to prepare and take care of herself.
- How much resolution, Matthew. You don't even look like the same brother worried ever.
- We're not here to talk about my personality, are we?
- In any way. I just thought a little too high
- What do we do after the Protocol?
- The first thing we are going to do is to destroy this country. After all, it's already deteriorated even. - Rido shrugged – after that I took care of everything so we can wipe out at least half of the humans in the world.
- This is quite audacious. What are you thinking?
- My dear Matthew ... What else can kill humans than diseases? I've been preparing myself all these years gases containing the worst human disease, but these viruses are improved and completely resistant to anything. The only beings able to survive will be those modified here.
  He carefully examined the features of Matthew, but not realised anything different. Actually the other wasn't open to negotiations in any way.
- What's the matter, Rido?
- No, don't worry. I'm just thinking.
- Be careful not to think too much.

{XVI. Pain

 Chiara could not realize what was about to happen. Not even she could believe the fact that Dustin was that way. However, she promised to take care of the girl anyway.

 Blair had time to push the girl to the side, causing her to fall back, petrified, trembling to see drops of blood staining the white floor of the company. However, the blood was not of Chiara herself , but that who protected her.

- Dustin ... What happened?

 No answer. The boy just stared at the blood that dripped from Blair's arm. It was nothing serious. He looked at his sister, who stood petrified in the ground like a statue.

- What did you do with him?

 Blair did not care about the cut that was on her arm, but with Dustin. It was not natural. He would never try to do something bad to someone, especially if that person was his sister, one for which he sacrificed everything so far. His eyes were not that color before and the only person who might know something was Matthew, who looked at her with amusement.

- I just did what was ordered. Nothing more, nothing less.

- This is an absurd! Dustin never acted this way until I called you.

- People change, girl. Who knows he got tired of all this? Maybe he feels enslaved by you two? After all, he loses his humanity while you stay at home just using the money that should be his.

- That's a lie! A complete lie!

- Get out of here, Blair. And take Chiara with you before I finish what I started. - He looked away to the wound on the girl's arm.

 She was surprised to hear Dustin say something of that sort. However, his expression was clear and resolute, with no sign of doubt.

- I hope you know what you're doing, Dustin. - The girl held Chiara's hand - We will be waiting for you at home.

 The boy watched the two leave without saying a word, expressing any feelings. He looked at the blood on the floor and looked at Matthew, reading his mind and returning to the elevator.

 Through the hidden cameras throughout the company, nothing escaped. Everything that happened in the main lobby was like a show and a definitive answer to the effects of the company's latest research.

 A knock on the door caught his attention.

- Enter.

 It was Dustin, as expected.

- How can I help you, my boy? Some problem?

- I thought a little - the boy began, making Rido notice a subtle stab of pain in his voice - and I decided to accept your offer.

- This is really great news. I'm glad you thought of you and not those humans. However, know this: once committed to this, I will not allow you to change your mind later.

- I will not change my mind, do not worry.

- Excellent. - Rido pressed an intercom button - Matthew, come here for a moment.

 Matthew walked through the door seconds later.

- Prepare all that was described in the protocol.

- Then there was a deal, anyway?

- Yes. We can not waste time, I waited for this for too long. - He glanced at Dustin thoughtfully - Wait a minute, Matthew.

 The other went back into the room, closing the door behind him.

- First of all, I would like to test something.

- And what would it be?

- I want to see how human this kid is still.

 Matthew could read Rido intentions just by looking.

- If that's what you want ...

- Yes. And I'll follow you.

 Matthew struggled to hide an expression unhappy and suspicious at the same time.

- I want to see with my own eyes what kind of feelings take him.

- It's all right. When you want.

- He promised not to turn into a monster like those, Blair.

- And he will not. I'm sure he will get better.

 Chiara closed her eyes. Blair hoped Dustin recovered as soon as possible, since she also missed him. She closed the girl's bedroom door and returned to the living room, determined to wait for him even if she needed to stay awake all night.

 It did not take long for the front door open gently and Dustin appear.

- I was sure you would come.

 He did not answer. Not even looked directly at her, but for the entire length of the room.

- What happened, Dustin? You still do not look good.

 Matthew and Rido entered then.

- What are you doing here? Matthew, who is this man?

- If I were you I would be more careful with what you say, girl.

 Blair stared at him. That fox face ... She remembered that Dustin had spoken about it before but could not remember exactly.

- Dustin, please.

 It appeared to function as a command to him. The girl had no time to react, since when he realized he was stuck in the wall by Dustin, who held her by the throat firmly without offering opportunities for her to let go.

- You promised to Chiara that you would not turn yourself into a monster.

- I do not remember having promised anything to anyone.

 His hand began to shake her neck slowly, taking her breath and making the struggle to try to drop. It was an effort in vain.

  Rido was surprised to see Blair's body falling to the ground like a rag doll. On her neck were the marks of Dustin fingers, undeniable proof that the girl was dead. The boy then ran up the stairs and then walking to the room Chiara, who was sleeping peacefully and did not hear absolutely nothing of what happened in the living room. This time he did not need much effort.

- I must admit I'm surprised. I thought you would hesitate.

- I have no reason to hesitate.

- Very well. Matthew, care of the body and be sure that no one will discover them.

- Yes.

{XV. Blind Mind

 No one answered the phone.

- Chiara, come on. We can not depend on them to have news of Dustin.

- But ...

- Your brother may be in serious trouble. As much as time has passed, I still can not trust them.

 This conversation was taking too long. What kind of things Rido was saying? Why they had not come out of there? Blair was calling insistently, and that was not, in any way, a good sign. All the ground floor and reception were fully instructed not to let the girl enter the company, but he felt it was not enough. The best thing to do would be to increase the recommendations and monitoring.

- Do you understand where I'm going, boy? There's nothing for you in this world. The only people left let you lose your humanity to raise money. Dustin Gates, you are a being like me. We are superior to humans and can shape it in our own way, just if you decide to cooperate with me.

 Dustin remained hesitant. Would be true the fact of having been abandoned by people who were close to him? On second thought, if it was a lie he would not be there at that time.

- We are alone, boy. If you do not join together to do something, we will be condemned by the human race. They will never accept us because we are different and we can do things they try to do early; we would be called monsters, we will be hunted till our death and even stuffed as study sample. We can not afford it. - Rido looked seriously at the boy's eyes - I know we were human someday, but all this must be left behind. We became what we are now to clear the world once and for all; we bring peace with our own hands. They dominated for too long.

- We are only two, Rido. We can not do anything.

- Yes we can. - Rido gave a predatory smile - I've got it all planned out, and I just need your answer so that everything can be put in place as soon as possible. Remember your suffering in war to get back home alive and look at the mirror, reflect: you ran imminent risks to protect them and now look how they are giving back, especially those you love.

 She was,watching the indifference and neglect in which she was treated. The receptionist and the security did not let her any way to try to find Dustin.

- I need to go!

- I'm sorry, miss. There is no authorization to tell you two can join. Please go away.

- No! I'm not leaving here! Call Matthew right now!

 Matthew froze when he heard his name being uttered by that voice. Actually she had come and along with the sister of Dustin. He closed his eyes and sighed before resuming the journey to the elevator, pretending he was looking for something in the lab coat pocket.

- Matthew! Matthew!

- Miss Blair. Didn't I say to wait for the call at home? It was not necessary to have bothered to come here. He can not receive any visits.

- How is he? Matthew, please.

- He's fine, we are taking care of the last details. Even I myself am care of it and must return as soon as possible.

- Something is wrong here.

- It's only your thoughts. If you ask me, you act like his mother. - Matthew approached his face - and that's not good for a girl at your age. You will soon have premature aging to continue.

 Blair stood still, not knowing what to say. It was her impression, something was wrong there and that was the only sure she had. The security blocked her passage to reach Matthew, who was away from her.

  The girl saw the elevator reaching the ground and a person coming out of it.

- Dustin! Dustin!

 The security could not hold Chiara, who kept running toward her brother. Matthew motioned to allow the passage of Blair.

 Upon hearing his name, Dustin looked at Chiara indifferently, trying to remember her. Yes, Rido had shown a picture of her for him. Was his younger sister. Then he looked at the other girl who was just behind. She was his childhood friend. Blair.

- Dustin, what happened?

 Chiara shook hands in front of his face, but got no response. Matthew had realized that something was not right and that the conversation with Rido was the cause of it.

 Blair noticed something wrong in Dustin's eyes and immediately looked at Matthew, whose expression said clearly that something bad was going to happen. A dark look took Dustin and his hands trembled. The teeth started to get sample with a possible snarl that formed in his throat.

{XIV. Wild Eyes

- Finally news ... I've been waiting for a long time to see something like this completely finished.

 Rido's eyes roamed the long capsule, costing to believe that, after so many years and attempts they had accomplished something so perfectly. The boy had his eyes closed, apparently immersed in a deep sleep.

- For a single small moment - Rido looked at Matthew - I thought you would not be able to take this project to the end.

- The past haunts me, but I can live with it.

- Excellent. After all, what would I do without your brilliant mind? No doubt I would be a lonely genius.

 The capsule opened slowly after Rido enter a series of numbers that only he and Matthew knew. Dustin began to open his eyes slowly, but with no apparent sign of consciousness. As the air outside the capsule came into contact with his lungs, the boy began to react. He looked around, making a sweep of everything that was around before leaving where he was.

 The wings were opened for a brief exercise and soon closed. However, it was noticeable that were ruffled, perhaps for their own defense, perhaps to impose fear the man who was there, watching him like a lab rat.

- I think he does not like you.

- That's just a matter of time. - He looked back at the boy - at least I can see that you have made the full service. I do not know why, but my intuition told me that you would not be fully faithful to my instructions.

- It is my duty, right? Also, I did not say I would be totally honest in this case.

- You are improving.

- I have a good teacher.

 Rido ignored him, calmly walking toward Dustin, whose wings were shaking and a growl formed in his throat.

- Calm down, boy. I will not hurt you.

 He looked at Matthew, who nodded, showing confidence in the stranger who was there. So Dustin began to show more friendly, however without losing distrust look in florescent turquoise eyes, which showed also some wild and predatory air.

- You do not know who are you, do you?

 The boy did not say a word. Rido continued.

- Poor boy ... I could leave everything clear to you, from the moment we started to take care of you to the present we are. But for that you need to trust me.

- Say it at once, can not support the way you're talking to me for so long.

- All right then - Rido hid a small smile - Follow me to my room, there I can tell you everything without anyone listen. - He cast a brief look at Matthew.

- As if I did not already know everything.

- Dustin is late...

- He will come soon, do not worry.

 Chiara was impatient around the house. Dustin had not given news of where he was since he had lost consciousness and Blair had called Matthew. Was he still unconscious? She could not know. She looked at the phone hesitantly.

- Do not worry, he's fine. We are still doing the last tests to ensure it does not happen again ... I'm sorry, but you can not talk to him now ... Exactly, we are in the middle of an exam ... I will ask him to contact you so that all is well, please keep calm ... Yes, of course you can trust us, we are taken care of it right now.

 Matthew hung up the phone. Really that girl was a problem, and worst of all: it was his problem. If she appears looking for Dustin certainly Rido would kill him for it. He had to strengthen resistance to the entry of people on the ground before it was too late.