Cyber Chronicles 2: Prime Voyage

Chapter 12: Past

As Lincoln emerged from the taxi and set foot on the snowy ground, an intense wave of nostalgia washed over him. The darkness of the night had descended upon Ontario, making it even more challenging to find a road taxi willing to venture into the outskirts where skystreets had not yet been introduced. 

With each step, the weight of his responsibilities bore down heavily on him. However, amidst the solemn atmosphere, he couldn't help but notice the road shimmering under the soft moonlight. In that moment, a bittersweet realization enveloped him.

It was Christmas.

Time stood still as Lincoln marveled at the delicate snowflakes, each one a reminder of dreams and hopes. A wistful smile formed on his lips, and warmth enveloped his heart. The sight of decorated houses, glowing lights, and festive scenes through windows stirred a sense of unity and compassion within him. Despite the longing and unfamiliarity, the snow on the road spoke of the enduring spirit of Christmas, casting a solemn yet comforting aura on his journey.

A sigh escaped Lincoln's lips as he pivoted to confront his house, relieved to discover it devoid of any visible damage. Memories flooded his mind, recalling the last time he had laid eyes on it when he had shattered a door with newfound strength. It was a relief to see that the door had been repaired, although it was only expected considering how long he had been gone for.

"Over 5 years, huh..." Lincoln murmured to himself, taking a step into the front yard. "I wonder if this place still belongs to us."

Lincoln approached the porch and took a deep breath before he pressed the doorbell, the familiar sound triggering yet another wave of nostalgia. It had been far too long since he had been in the presence of an ordinary modern home. The sound echoed through the silence, and soon, he could hear approaching footsteps. His heart skipped a beat, and a sense of nervousness washed over him. It suddenly dawned on him that he had taken no steps to make himself presentable. His hair was unruly and overgrown, and his beard was in no better shape. However, he felt a small sense of relief knowing that at least he had managed to change into fresh clothes.

"Who is this?" a voice, filled with familiarity, questioned from behind the door. Lincoln's heart skipped another beat, and a rush of emotions surged within him. He struggled to find the right words but managed to utter a hesitant, "Uh..." before being cut off by the door swinging open. There stood his beloved sister, and as her eyes met his, a mix of shock and disbelief swept across her face. "Lin...?" Kate whispered, her voice trembling, and Lincoln could see her legs faltering beneath her. Reacting swiftly, he moved forward, catching her in his arms just in time as she collapsed.

They remained still for a moment as he held her tight.

He had an overwhelming rush of words and emotions but didn't know where to start. However, he could sense that his sister shared the same feelings as she embraced him tightly, her sobs consuming her. "Merry Christmas..." Lincoln managed to say, his voice quivering with emotion. Kate lifted her tear-filled eyes to meet his gaze, and he offered a reassuring smile, which only caused her to cry louder. Suddenly, another set of footsteps hastened towards the door, drawing Lincoln's attention. He looked up to find a man he had never seen before, standing there with a confused expression. "Who are you?" the man asked, his eyes fixed on Lincoln. Protective instincts surged within Lincoln as he wanted to know what a stranger was doing with his sister. He scrutinised the man and noticed the ring on his finger. His heart shattered at the sight, realizing that he had missed his only sister's wedding.

"I missed a lot, didn't I..." Lincoln commented, his voice tinged with guilt. "I-I'm j-just so glad you're a-alive," Kate replied, her words interrupted by sobs, yet her embrace grew even tighter. A warm smile formed on Lincoln's face as he realized that she didn't hold any resentment for his absence; she was simply grateful for his presence now. "Come inside..." Kate suggested, but it was clear she had no intention of letting him go just yet. "I will. Just need to take a little stroll around first," Lincoln replied.

Kate reluctantly released her grip on Lincoln and leaned against her husband, finding solace in his presence. "That's my brother," she managed to say, her voice filled with both joy and sadness. The man nodded and made eye contact with Lincoln. "I'm her husband, Luke." he introduced himself. Lincoln nodded in acknowledgement. "I'm Lincoln," he replied before taking a step off the porch. "I'll be back," he assured them."Come soon! Oh, and Merry Christmas!" Kate called out, her voice echoing with longing and hope.

As Lincoln ventured into the darkened streets, a serene stillness enveloped the neighborhood. The absence of noise amplified the calmness that hung in the air, allowing his footsteps to echo softly against the pavement. Dimly lit streetlights flickered, casting elongated shadows that danced along the quiet pathways. The familiar houses stood like silent sentinels, their windows reflecting the moon's gentle glow. The night embraced him as he made his way, the only sounds accompanying him were his breathing and the distant rustling of leaves carried by a gentle breeze.

The majestic mountains that stood tall and proud, beckoning him with their awe-inspiring presence. Among all the places Lincoln cherished, this one held a special significance; a haven where he found solace, adventure, and above all, peace. It was his favorite spot to hang out, a sanctuary where the troubles of the world seemed to fade away. The winding trails of the mountains beckoned him, their rugged beauty that used to call out to his adventurous spirit.

But now it felt so unfamiliar, even though it looked the same.

Hidden, in the bottom of a memorable mountain, was the hideout where Lincoln and his friends spent countless days together. As he reminisced, he wondered if it was still there, untouched by time. He doubted they would gather there anymore, knowing they had all moved on with their lives like Kate, busy with marriage and other commitments. Lincoln felt a tinge of sadness as he realized he was the only one left behind, the only one not caught up in the busyness of adulthood.

With anticipation, Lincoln tapped on the secret spot on the stone integrated within the mountain, hoping it still worked. To his delight, the rocks in front of him slid open, unveiling a hidden cave entrance as soft lights gradually illuminated the space. The hidden cameras at the entrance recognized Lincoln's presence, a security measure he had implemented to safeguard their hideout from strangers stumbling upon it. Stepping inside, he pressed the button to close the rocky doors, sealing himself within the familiar sanctuary.

Another rush of powerful nostalgia washed over him, flooding his mind with vivid images. He could almost see Ash and Naomi engrossed in their own worlds on the couch, Destry and Dexter engaged in lively competition on the expensive pool table that Dexter had kept insisting on getting, and Sally attentively watching the game. Their presence felt tangible, as if they were right there, welcoming him back. Overwhelmed by emotions, Lincoln couldn't hold back tears. "It's really been over 5 years, huh..." he murmured to himself, his voice filled with a mix of awe and melancholy.

Approaching the council table, Lincoln gently ran his hands along its surface. The touch revealed a very thin layer of dust, indicating that the place was still frequented and cared for. A warm smile spread across his face, realizing the dedication and love his friends had shown in maintaining this special hideout. Nostalgia and emotions swelled within him, reinforcing the deep appreciation he felt for the connections forged in this very space.

"Turn around slowly." A familiar voice suddenly spoke from behind him.

Caught off guard by the sudden interruption, Lincoln's heart skipped a beat as he turned around to face Dexter. The sight of the person he considered a brother all his life, donned in an army uniform with a gun pointed directly at him, sent shockwaves through Lincoln's being. Confusion and surprise filled Dexter's voice, "Lin...?". Time seemed to stand still as they locked eyes, their shared history flashing before Lincoln's mind.

"Hey, Dex."