Pacific Rim: Legacy

Chapter 20 - Analia/Ezra

EZRA POV

Ezra felt the weight of the neural link snap into place, the rush of sensation surging through his mind as Sabre Athena synced with his and Amara's thoughts. It was like electricity flooding his senses, a powerful wave of energy and connection that made every nerve stand on end. The world outside the Jaeger seemed to blur, replaced by the hum of the machine and the rhythmic pulse of the drift. His heart pounded against his ribs, a reminder that this was real—no longer just a simulation, but the true test of everything he had prepared for.

"Neural link strong and holding," the AI announced, its voice even and precise. Ezra tightened his grip on the controls, feeling the weight of Sabre Athena move in sync with him. It was as if the Jaeger was an extension of his own body—every motion fluid, every thought translating into action with perfect harmony. For a moment, he marveled at the sheer power they wielded, the sensation of the massive machine responding to their every command.

Amara's voice came through the drift, brimming with excitement. "How does it feel to be in a real Jaeger?"

Ezra grinned, the adrenaline coursing through him like fire. "It's unreal. I've dreamed about this my whole life." He glanced at Amara through the drift, sensing her exhilaration echoing his own. Despite the fear and danger surrounding them, there was a thrill in being here, together. They had faced training and hardship side by side, and now they stood on the edge of a real battle. For a brief moment, the enormity of it all seemed less daunting because they were doing it together.

Raleigh's voice crackled through the comms, pulling him back to the moment. "All right, all Jaegers sound off. Go-no-go for launch."

"Guardian Bravo, go," Ilya's voice came first, steady but tinged with tension.

"Saber Athena, go," Ezra responded, his voice strong, though he felt the pressure of the mission weighing heavily on his shoulders. There was no room for hesitation.

"Bracer Phoenix, go," Vik's voice followed, her tone sharper than usual, all business.

"Gypsy Avenger, go," came Jake's familiar voice, calm and full of confidence.

"Copy that. Command, we are go for launch," Analia's voice filled the airwaves, firm and resolute. Ezra felt a sense of reassurance, knowing his mother was leading them. Even though they were in separate Jaegers, her presence anchored him, her strength a guiding force that he could rely on.

"Roger, Razor Angel. Ignition in 10 seconds," Gottlieb's voice echoed in the cockpit, the countdown beginning. Ezra's pulse quickened, every second dragging out like an eternity as the moment approached.

"Nine, eight, seven, six, five, four, three, two, one. Ignition!"

The Jaegers roared to life, the engines and systems powering up with a thunderous hum. Ezra felt Sabre Athena come alive beneath him, the power vibrating through his whole body as the Jaeger stood tall, ready for battle. He exchanged a quick glance with Amara, their shared excitement and determination flowing through the drift. They were ready.

Suddenly, the AI's voice blared in their helmets, "Warning. Exceeding structural limits." The sharp tone of the alert clashed with the calm of the AI, sending a jolt of tension through Ezra's nerves.

"What the hell?" Suresh's voice came through, sounding as rattled as Ezra felt. And then, faintly, they all heard it through the comms: "Tro lo lo lo lo lo lo lo lo."

The absurdity of the sound, amidst all the chaos, made Ezra and Amara laugh despite the tension. "Is that—" Ezra started, trying to keep the grin off his face.

Amara chuckled. "Only Ilya."

"My grandmother used to play it for me," Ilya's voice followed, strangely calm. "Keeps me calm."