Meap Me in St. Louis

Chapter 9: A Team of Geniuses

UNIVERSE 524

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It's 7 AM in the quiet town of Concord, North Carolina. On Saturday mornings, this is frequently the time of day where adults are either on their way to work or getting ready for work, teenagers with no obligations are sleeping in, and some people are going out for an early morning run. The weekend is forecasted to be dry and in the high 50s/low 60s, which at this time of year is nice weather. The following week is supposed to be filled with lots of rain, with the upcoming snowy season to come shortly after.

Out in a mostly desolate, empty rural area, far away from the main city, is a small building not unlike a farmhouse. Of course, there's no accompanying farm or stables. That's just how it looks to the average person driving by. Outside the house, a group of high school aged triplets are walking with each other, having a discussion.

"Have you talked with Dr. Magdon yet?" Benny, the youngest, asks his older sister, Rachel.

"Not since last night," she answers.

"How're we looking?" Austin, the middle child, asks.

"Well, so far, I've been able to get about half of our reserves on call. Dr. Magdon sent the jet out for them earlier this morning, and they should be here by 9."

"How many is half?"

"About 40 to 50."

Benny nods. "Good." The three stop next to the road, awaiting the arrival of their guests.

"When did they say they'd get here?" Benny asks, looking around for any sign of them.

"I was told first thing in the morning," Rachel replies.

Austin looks to the sky. The sun has only started to rise, so it's still somewhat dark outside. He's able to make out a beam of light on the horizon. As the light approaches them, the sound of an engine roaring reaches their ears. Rachel and Benny notice it shortly after Austin does. Once it's close enough for them to see the jet flames, the metallic gleam, and the eleven figures standing atop the flying object, they know exactly what it is and who's coming.

The three nod to each other, then walk towards the object and its passengers.

ELLE

Last night was a restless one for many of us. It's never been easy trying to sleep the night before a really important event, something most people can relate to. Though I'm not sure if everyone's familiar with the feeling of an impending fight against extraterrestrial beings.

We had all woken up at 6 AM, courtesy of Sam. Since last night, we've all changed into clothing more fitting for battle: loose athletic hoodies, army surplus vests, and cargo pants for the guys, and tank tops, compressed winter jackets, and track sweats or leggings for the girls. Take away the surplus vests and we look like a squad of student athletes getting ready for a winter run. Which we kind of are, if you think about it.

When we arrive at the address the Sides told us to meet them at, Sam parks his HoverBoard-8500 in their front yard and we meet with the triplets in their driveway. Shanna has to limp while using Sean and Mackenzie as support due to her injured ankle, which is now covered with an ice pack and a tourniquet. I exchange a nervous look with Eghosa on the way there, and she returns with a comforting smile. Just because I've been through this kind of thing several times before doesn't mean it gets any easier.

"Well, long time no see," Sam chuckles. He, Avery, and Heath give the triplets handshakes and/or hugs.

"Yeah, it's been quite a while," Austin replies.