Kane (2025)

Chapter Ten: Never Again!

Morning came all too quickly. The mansion buzzed with a quiet urgency as everyone prepared for the journey ahead. Kane was the first to wake, still feeling the weight of the conversation with Ricky. He quickly got dressed, packing a small bag with essentials.

Downstairs, Phyllis was already in the kitchen, making breakfast. The smell of freshly brewed coffee and frying bacon filled the air. Claire joined her, helping to set the table and prepare a quick meal.

Aubrey, ever the early riser, was in the study, organising his notes and making sure he had everything he needed for the trip. He was meticulous, double-checking each item and ensuring his equipment was in perfect order.

Ricky came down the stairs, his face set with determination. He joined Phyllis in the kitchen, exchanging a few words with her before grabbing a cup of coffee.

As they all sat down to eat, the atmosphere was tense but filled with a sense of purpose. They discussed the plan for the day, making sure everyone was on the same page.

After breakfast, they gathered their belongings and headed outside. Phyllis loaded their bags into the car, and they all piled in. The drive to the Order was quiet at first, the early morning sun casting long shadows across the landscape.

Claire broke the silence. "Everyone ready for this?"

Kane nodded. "As ready as I'll ever be."

Aubrey glanced at Claire. "Remember, this is a scouting mission. We're just checking to see if they're alive and bringing them home if they are."

Ricky and Kane exchanged a look, their unspoken plan hanging heavy in the air.

Phyllis, ever the supportive presence, drove with a steady hand. "Just be careful, all of you. I want you all back in one piece."

The conversation continued, touching on mundane topics to keep the mood light. They joked about Claire's cooking skills, Aubrey's habit of losing his glasses, and Ricky's latest attempt at gardening.

As they reached the Order's compound, the mood shifted. They exited the car, grabbed their bags, and headed towards Claire's ship. The sleek, futuristic vessel stood ready, a testament to the advanced technology they had access to.

Claire led the way, her demeanour all business. "Alright, everyone. Get your gear stowed and prepare for departure."

They moved with practised efficiency, stowing their bags and securing themselves in the ship. Aubrey went over the mission parameters one last time. "Remember, this is a scouting mission. We're not engaging unless absolutely necessary. Our priority is to find Ricky's family and get them out safely."

Ricky nodded, his expression grim. "Understood."

Kane strapped himself in, trying to calm the nerves that were buzzing in his stomach. He caught Ricky's eye, and the older man gave him a reassuring nod. They both knew what they had to do.

The ship hummed to life, and Claire took the controls. "Alright, let's get this show on the road."

As they lifted off, the familiar weightlessness settled over them. The ship soared into the sky, leaving the compound behind. Claire navigated with ease, her focus unwavering.

Aubrey checked his equipment, making sure everything was functioning properly. "We should be able to reach Bristol in about thirty minutes. Stay sharp, everyone."

Kane looked out the window, the landscape rushing by below them. He thought about the confrontation that awaited him and steeled himself for the challenge ahead.

Ricky leaned over. "Remember, keep your head clear. We have a job to do."

Kane nodded, his resolve hardening. "I won't let you down."