Ex animo, p.56
Ex/Animo, page 56
part #1 of Ex/Animo Series
Sherry whimpered at the thought of Aron’s cruel fate. From saving her from the hospital to staying up to look after the love of her life, Sherry had witnessed one who treasures friendships. Over time, she had realized Aron wasn’t one to give into impediments and accept their fate quietly. But one who fought for what others felt unattainable. She gazed into a future with her beloved, rekindling the flames of what she found to be true hope.
Melody cried tears at the thought of losing her beloved a second time. From what began as a pointless espionage mission to having thoughts of running into his arms when he gets back home from work, she had created an intricate web of dreams which proved to be grounds of her own demise. Over time she had realized recognitions meant nothing if not enjoyed with someone special. And that it takes a certain resolve to pour in all of one’s self to exist for another. The ex-soldier felt solitude as she realized her subject had abandoned her in a world of true love.
Selena grunted as she fought against the urge to cry. From what began as a simple mission to eliminate, she had found someone who knew her more than she did herself. Selena came to accept that there were people who cared about her and that she was a nobody. Over time, she realized status or lineage doesn’t define one’s life, but people and relationships formed do. The ex-soldier sniffed as she realized her target had shown her the value of a true bond.
Zeke clenched his fist as he stared at the giant mutant looming over the distance. From a teenager who feigned having everything under control to having placed complete faith in a dispassionate scientist who pushed personal commitments aside, Zeke held a deep respect for Aron. Over time, Zeke learned to appreciate the people in his life and accept that he cannot fix certain things. The scientist sighed heavily as he realized the man who he wished was his younger brother had opened his eyes to his true limitation.
Elaine averted her eyes off the scene at the thought of Aron using her creation to end himself. From who appeared to be a man of stoic nature to someone who brought back the only people she had, Aron had earned a special place in her heart. Over time, Elaine had realized none could replace her biological family. Still, it never meant that she couldn’t have people of equal importance in her life. The engineer wiped tears off her face as she realized she would lose one among her true family.
Kevin tried in vain to contact his AI daughter. From a seemingly shifty character that broke into his house in the middle of an apocalypse to a friend who broke him out of his cocoon of isolation, Kevin admired Aron deeply. Over time, he realized fate will continue to play with him until he stands up and takes the first step to bring forth a change. The programmer stared at his friends and realized the reckless teenager had shown him true bravery.
Evanos guided the E-units back to the base. From what appeared a threat to his master’s life to someone who placed others above him, Aron reminded Evanos of a ronin. Over time, Evanos accepted people have flaws, and it’s what made humans stand out. The AI realized why his sister yearned to be one of them through Aron’s tale of true sacrifice.
The survivors gaped at the giant as a bolt of lightning shot across the sky above the base.
‘Zero!’
The desert sky that was dark and cloudy a moment ago lit up a dazzling white. The survivors watched wide-eyed as the shockwaves swept over them. The thundering explosion drowned out the sirens that went off at the base.
A small part of the fort was swallowed by a mushroom cloud; it rose to the sky in a shifty haze. The ground shook so tremendously that the remaining walls of the base went down in a crash.
The skies slowly began to clear as if it mocked the sorrow of the ones down below; nothing lasts forever. A ray of light broke through the clouds, such as from a lighthouse that guided lost ships caught in the fury of a storm.
A world was saved.
5AA; A World Born from Sacrifice
The birds perched upon the branch cuddled against each other for warmth. The children laughed and yelled as they threw snowballs at one another. The roads were blanketed by a thick sheet of snow. The streets of the sleepy town appeared to be enjoying the sweet lullaby of the howling wind.
The sound of the television drowned out the noise of the cutlery and dishes being washed. A half-eaten birthday cake sat on the countertop. The orange ceiling light reflected on the drink that sat beside the cake.
The couple that stood by the sink spoke to each other in low tones. The man laughed as the woman’s face turned red as a beet. She looked over her shoulder. Their guest appeared lost in thoughts and wasn’t paying attention to their playful banter.
The woman walked over to the guest. She grabbed a seat and sat on the other side of the counter, facing her. She saw that their guest had not taken a single sip of her drink and was gripping the glass tight till her knuckles had turned white.
“Hey-o!” the woman snapped her fingers in front of her face. “Earth to Melody! Wake up!”
“Huh?” Melody snapped back to reality.
The ice in her drink cracked.
“Sorry,” Melody smiled. “Did you say something?”
“Martyn was right,” Sherry sighed. “You could use a break.”
“No way,” Melody shook her head immediately. “You know it would all be for nothing if we let our guards down now.”
“It’s been five years already,” Martyn joined in on the conversation. “Don’t you think it’s time to settle down?”
He was done with the dishes and had joined the ladies.
“You of all people should know how dangerous they are, Martyn,” Melody said.
“Well yeah,” Martyn shrugged. “Kids don’t call us Zombie Men for nothing–which is a very dumb name. Sometimes, I think of hunting down and squeezing the life out of the brat who came up with it.”
“That’s dark coming from a great Zombie Man!” Sherry smirked.
“Gee, thanks honey,” Martyn rolled his eyes at her.
He grabbed the remote and switched to the news channel.
“This afternoon,” the news anchor said. “The new world leader and President of the United States of America, Mr. Baker Olsen, addressed the citizens of Geneva with a heartwarming message. He lighted a flame of hope in their hearts with his words,”
The camera cut to the press conference; Mr. Olsen stood behind the podium. Chief world leaders stood beside him. He was guarded by the CRISP elite unit as he addressed the masses.
“Oh, this oughta be interesting,” Martyn crossed his arms.
“Dear citizens of Geneva, the battle of your lives has come to an end,” the President smiled. “It’s a direct result of the combined efforts of our team and you, amazing people! The sleepless nights weren’t fruitless. Europe, after all, was an epicenter of the apocalypse, but that was a long time ago. Rest assured, we will wipe out the virus in its entirety along with those who hope to weaponize them. We will emerge victorious as always!”
The President pumped his fist.
“Here’s to the future in the making,” the President nodded enthusiastically.
He then stepped away from the podium and turned to leave. The reporters bombarded him with questions.
“Mr. President, is it true that Phoenix is still active and is pulling strings from the shadows?” a reporter asked.
“Would you refute the latest theory about the mysterious hole in the sky over Japan being a result of a UFO attack?” another reporter asked.
“Several independent scientists claim the neo-J-Virus’ mutation rate is going off the charts, and there is a chance for yet another apocalypse,” the third reporter said. “What is your view on this?”
“I would love to stay and answer all of your questions,” the President smiled politely. “But I am afraid I have to leave for an important meeting. However, you are always welcome to consult the government’s online forum for any such queries. I’m sure the people at the other end can satisfy you with information far better than I can. Thank you, all!”
The President walked away with the security escorting him. He no longer limped as he walked.
“Good call, Breaker,” Martyn grinned.
The screen door flung open.
“Da-ddy!” a little girl ran up to Martyn.
“There’s my little girl!” Martyn got up from his chair.
He hoisted the kid upon his arm.
“What’s this?” Martyn pointed to the stick in her mouth.
“Uncle Aron bought me an ice pop!” the girl smiled mischievously.
“Sorry,” Aron walked in with a stick in his mouth as well. “Only cool people can have ‘em. Isn't that right, little lady?”
“Absolutely!” her eyes lit up. “I had the best birthday party ever!”
“That’s right,” Martyn nodded. “Better than with those losers from your school, right princess?”
“Um?” the girl scrunched up her face like she was thinking hard.
“So, little lady,” Aron leaned toward her. “You got a boyfriend yet?”
“Ha!” Martyn scoffed. “None would dare-”
“Yesterday, Jason gave me something called a ‘love… letter’?” she appeared confused.
“Aww!” Sherry held her cheeks.
“Oh!” metal claws poked from Martyn’s fingertips. “Is it possible to find out where this Jason lives? Daddy just wants to have a little chat with him.”
“Hey!” Aron appeared uneasy. “Didn’t those monks teach you something called anger management?!”
“I took the crash course,” Martyn replied.
“So cool!” the little girl stared at her father’s bloody claws in awe.
“Not in front of the baby!” Sherry smacked Martyn on the head.
“Ow!” Martyn retracted the claws. “Sorry, babe!”
“Well, won’t you look at the time, young lady!” Sherry turned to the little girl.
“It’s… 9 o'clock?” the girl narrowed her eyes.
“And what does 9 o'clock mean to you?” Sherry crossed her arms.
“Um, bedtime?” she realized. “No! No! No! Daddy had promised he would let me stay up late tonight! Isn't that right, Daddy?”
“Well-” Martyn scratched his head.
“But it’s a school night, Irene,” Sherry narrowed her eyes.
“Daddy?!” Irene looked at Martyn with puppy-dog eyes. “You promised me you’ll play UNO with me tonight!”
Aron’s face broke into a smile.
“Using the secret attack again, huh?” Martyn gave in. “You and your mommy are two of a kind. Okay, go upstairs with Mommy and get changed into your pajamas. We’ll play a round or two, and then it’s bedtime!”
“Yes!” Irene turned to Aron. “My daddy is the strongest Z-Man there is!”
“He sure is,” Aron grinned.
Irene left the kitchen with Sherry.
“Thanks for coming, guys,” Martyn smiled. “It means the world to me, and you know very well she’s my world.”
“Knock off the formality, Mr. Rogers,” Aron backhanded Martyn’s shoulder.
“Yeah, we’re family,” Melody leaned onto Aron.
“Poor kid,” Martyn sighed. “The other parents won’t even let their kids talk to her because of what I am.”
“You are the epic Z-Man,” Aron frowned. “What about it?”
“It says in the name,” Martyn shook his head. “I’m ‘part’ Zerohead.”
“So what?” Aron exclaimed. “You are saving the world cos you are part Zerohead.”
“Well, not all see the Enhanced Faction (CRISP Enhanced Zombie Extermination Faction) as regular people–you know that,” Martyn smiled weakly. “I’m more or less a ‘Code Zeta.’”
“Hey!” Aron placed his hand on Martyn’s shoulder. “Once the entire world was against us. We had your back, and you had ours. The world may have changed since then. But not this!” he nodded. “And don’t forget that no matter what you’ve become, you will always be a one-hundred percent ‘you.’”
Martyn chuckled out loud. “Thanks, pal,” he smiled. “I’ll keep that in mind. Any word from the others?”
“Not much,” Aron shook his head. “Heard from Richard that Zeke has been working on something big lately. Sel and Kev call us from time to time, and you know how busy Elaine is,”
“I see,” Martyn nodded.
“But the annual get-together is still a thing… I think,” Aron shrugged.
“I guess,” Martyn sighed.
“Well, we are off now,” Aron shrugged. “Got a flight to catch early morning. CRISP business!”
Sherry appeared downstairs to bid them goodbye. Melody excused herself to use the bathroom. Aron walked toward his car and leaned on its hood; he took out a cigarette from the pack and lit the end with his fingertip.
He took a puff and stared at the red glow of the lit end. His mind went back a few years.
***
Aron suddenly woke up. He seemed to be in a room painted entirely white. He looked around in confusion.
“Did the core melt down early?” he thought. “Am I dead?”
“Not yet,” someone answered him.
“Synthea?” Aron recognized the voice.
Aron saw Synthea walk up to him. He stared at her in amazement. She appeared more human than he had ever seen her before.
“What’s happening?” he murmured.
“Were you really not afraid of death?” she smirked. “Were you really at peace?”
“Huh?”
“If yes, then why are you here?”
Aron remained silent.
“I’ve never seen such stubbornness in a man before,” Synthea said. “You see yourself as a pawn in a game of chess, Aron. You think your sacrifice would lead your team to victory.”
She looked him in the eye.
“But you fail to see the fact that even a pawn could be promoted to a queen,” she smiled at him. “And the queen is the most powerful piece in the game.”
“Synthea…”
She suddenly hugged him. Aron was astonished to feel the warmth in her embrace. It was almost as if she was made of skin and flesh.
“Did you get an upgrade?” Aron asked.
“You really are a pervert, aren’t you?” she pouted.
Aron realized his hand was on her breast.
“Sorry!” Aron apologized immediately. “I didn’t realize-”
Synthea smiled at him.
“Your brain jumped into a ‘near-death experience,’” she explained. “You are experiencing the world in slow motion. I saw a window, and I jumped in. We are inside your mindscape, Aron.”
“I see,” Aron nodded. “You look–beautiful, by the way,”
“What am I to you, Aron?” she ignored the compliment.
“That’s… a tough one,” Aron was taken back by the question. “You mean a lot of things to me.”
“Well, what first comes to your mind when you think about me?” Synthea changed her question. “Is it my intelligence? Is it my physical strength–this designed body? Is it my flexibility, the ability to turn into anything? Or is it… an emotion?”
“No,” Aron shook his head. “You are exactly what I see you now–a person,”
“I see,” she smiled sadly. “You’ll find people who’d disagree with you.”
“Well, I am not them,” Aron said. “A personality is a complicated mechanism; we cannot explain what it is, but we definitely can feel it. At times I felt you were the one who understood me the most. If Science believes humans evolved from apes, I believe even artificial intelligence can be natural intelligence. And I know you are something beyond even that. Who are we to say what is and what cannot be just because we don’t understand or control it? And you aren’t the villain in a world where one turns against another of their own kind for personal benefit. It’s the reason humans feel challenged when it comes to your kind. But believe me, it would be the same if we were to confront an equally intelligent species from here on Earth or out in space.”
“I see,” Synthea smiled.
“And the others in our team consider you the same as I do–I will say that,” Aron added.
“Well, it doesn’t matter as long as I get to spend my final moments with you,” she smiled again.
“Huh?” Aron was confused.
“You told Marvin you can’t please everyone,” Synthea said. “That–just one is fine too.”
“Yes, but-”
“I’m jealous of Melody, you know?” she smiled. “She will experience love because you love her,”
“Synthea, I don’t-”
“But I am happy, you know? I now know it’s not because I am what I am,”
“Synthea…”
“I love you, Aron, and I always have been in love with you. I was afraid I could be confusing it for something else but no, being here with you… tells me how far and near you are to me.”
Aron stared in amazement. Suddenly the walls of the white world began to crack.
“What’s happening?”
“It’s time for me to go,” Synthea smiled.
“What are you talking about?” Aron raised his voice.
Synthea just smiled at him.
“You–you didn’t turn off the limiter, did you?!” Aron sounded frantic.
“A new equation is on the chalkboard. Tell Dr. Zeke to take a look at it. It will save your life.”
“Synthea wa-”
Synthea hovered in the air. Her skin turned into blue ones-and-zeroes, and her eyes glowed white. She looked down at Aron.
“Are you kidding me?!” Aron yelled. “I don’t want you to die! Doc, Kevin, our team… they will be upset!” he cried. “I will be upset!”
