The Changed

Chapter 25- Nick

I held onto Tess all the way into the tent, not trusting her not to attack Frost where he stood. Don't get me wrong, I would love to kill him but I need to know what he brought us here for first. Plus I didn't fancy attacking him in his own camp.

Inside the tent there was a mahogany table with four decorated chairs around it. On the table, a massive map was laid out. "Please take a seat," Frost said as he made his way to the head of the table. We all took a seat but I noticed that Tess had scrunched up her hands into fists to stop them from shaking with fury.

"What have you called us here for then?" I said in a steely voice. Frost spread his hands out towards the map.

"This," he said pointing to a red dot on the map. "Is your little base. And this," he said pointing to a group of blue dots, "is us. As you can see, we have alot more people on our side than you do."

"So you brought us here to boast," I said, sitting back and crossing my arms.

"I brought you here because I don't want blood to be spilled. You really don't have a chance, Captain Garland. Just surrender and I will leave you and your people in peace. I won't harm them at all," Frost said.

"I think you have underestimated us, Frost," I said.

"I really think I haven't. I promise no one will get hurt if you surrender," Frost said but there was a edge to his voice.

"I don't think that will happen. There's something you want, what is it?" I snorted.

"Well, now you bring the point up," Frost said. "I would really love my property back."

"Your property? We don't have any of your property," the Commander said suddenly. It was the first time I had heard her speak to Frost with even mild politeness.

"I think you do, my sister," Frost said. "I would like young Edward back." Tess slammed her hands on the table. She was blazing all over her body now, even her hair. Even I had to admit that she looked very scary.

"Edward does not belong to you!" She shouted. "You can't have him, not after what you done to him. Not now, not ever!"

"This is why, my dear, that I wanted you to come," Frost said. "I can see that you can now beautifully control your powers. I am so impressed with your progress." Tess's hands had now gone through half of the table.

"Why do you want him?" I asked.

"He is unique," Frost replied. "His power could be the key to no more war. It could even be the key to the Earth surviving meteorites that could be the end of the human race."

"But sacrificing Edward and countless more Changed to do it doesn't bother you? Killing people doesn't bother you?" I said. Frost looked confused.

"Why would it?" He asked. I shook my head. This guy is literally mad.

"No, we are not giving up Edward to you," I said.

"I thought as much," Frost sighed. "We will meet on the battle field tomorrow." He waved his hand towards the tent door. "Go on, off you go." The Commander stood up and stormed out of the tent. Tess had cooled down now but she was still smoking. She had burned all the way through the table with her hands. I gently took her arm and guided to the tent door, but her eyes never left Frost's.

"You can change your mind at any time, you know," Frost called after us. Tess whipped around and blasted the chair next to his with a column of flames. Frost jumped up in shock.

"I guess that's your answer," I said and walked out.

***

All through the ride back, Tess was fuming. Smoke was rising from her all the time. "How dare he ask for Edward back!" She cried. "Ooh I am so going to kill him. I would have killed him then apart from the fact that he had a whole army behind him."

"We just have to get back and check everyone is OK, especially Edward," I said. "I'm not one to trust Frost, we don't know what he might have done if he wants Edward."

"I don't think he would have done anything," Tess muttered. "He'll want to prove his strength on the battle field." I looked into Tess's eyes and saw a fierce and determined light in them.

"You're right," I said and pushed the helicopter to go faster.

***

When we got back to the base, there were crowds of people waiting for us at the launch pad. Caleb and Edward were right at the front. I wasn't particularly sure how Edward got up the stairs in a wheelchair but maybe there was a different way to go. Either way, I was glad they were there.

Tess jumped out of the helicopter and hugged Caleb and Edward at the same time. I could see the relief on their faces when they saw her.

The same could not be said the the others gathered to meet us. A hush fell as the Commander stepped up to speak.

"As all of you know, we have had a meeting with a government representative. Unfortunately an agreement could not be reached and they have declared war on us. We must all be prepared. Children, please make sure that you have everything you need in the bunkers. Ladies and gentlemen, please prepare to fight. I know it is not my right to ask you to give your lives for the Changed, but I believe I can ask you to give your lives for your children, your friends, your family, for your future," the Commander cried. The people cheered in unison and scurried off to prepare.

April turned to me. "I know that my son is our only chance but I cannot risk loosing him. Let him go in the bunkers with the rest of the children, if things go badly, then I will allow you to use him but only if it is our last resort," she said. I was about to protest. Caleb wanted to fight but something held me back. I glanced over at Tess. I cared for her as much as the Commander cared for Caleb. I understood where she was coming from and nodded to her. She smiled and walked down the steps into the base. Tess, Edward and Caleb headed to the right towards the stables leaving me alone on the launch pad.

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Hiya!!!!!

Sorry for the bit of a late update, been slightly busy with sport matches and what not. Anyway, I finally got it published so here you are, hope its OK.

Please comment and vote!!!!!

Thanks guys, you're always awesome!!!!!

CricketCat