Zannah Johnston

Zannah Johnston

But mom why do I have to go with you guys to the courthouse I asked?

Because Zannah it is important for you to learn how the system works after all you need to know this stuff your eighteen and career day for you is next year and you only get to try three jobs before you have to commit to one said Mom.

I guess that makes since I stated.

Of course, it does now anyways grab your coat it’s supposed to be a Rainey day your father will meet us with the car at the upstairs balcony. I grabbed my coat and my mom, and I headed upstairs and out into he balcony were my father was waiting for us with the car hovering next to the boarding area.

My mother and I loaded into the car. What was it light when the cars weren’t hove cars I asked? How old do you think dad and I are asked Mom?

You mean they always flew when you were a kid I asked?

Yes, your thinking of your grandmothers timeline not ours said mom.

Oh, I will have to ask her about it next time I see her.

Normally I would advise against reminding elderly people how old they are however your grandmother loves to educate people on the old days said Mom.

I know I stated.

Here we are remember we can’t take any of the energy weapons in however are energy shields are allowed said Dad.

Right I said grabbing my shield and snapping it to my risk. I will have to ask grandma about when technology wasn’t so portable to I bit she didn’t have shields that work like watches to that just strap onto your wrist I stated.

Of course not dear energy items didn’t exist until well passed her childhood said Mom.

Oh I see I stated.

Anyways girls you can talk more about this later lets head in said dad. We made our way into the courthouse.

If you have to go to the bathroom it is best to do so now they do not allow people in and out for any reason during the trial anymore said Mom.

I do I will meet you guys in there I stated.

Sounds good don’t be long said Mom.

I wont I stated.

My parents departed for the courtroom and I made my way into the bathroom I finished peeing and went to wash my hands went a blinding blue light shot through the walls and sent me flying I managed to hit my energy shield button while flipping through the air I hit the ground hard and darkness overtook me.

There’s a survivor over here get a medic!

Right way captain.

THREE YEARS LATER

Crystal where are you the suspect is getting away, I yelled into my comms. I am going to head her off just keep up your pursuit she won’t get away Crystal said back through the comms.

Great hopefully Crystal wasn’t about to get lost again. I didn’t have time to dwell on that however as I needed to stop the suspect since my partner was not always the best at getting one up on a suspect.

I active my rocket puts and jumped into the air. I was gaining some ground on the suspect however right as I caught up to her, she took a grenade out of her pocket.

Oh no you don’t I yelled! I hit the turbo mode on my jet boots, and I shot forward slamming into her at full speed and then we both went flying of the roof top right as the grenade dropped and blew up above us.

We grabbled in the air as she activated her own jet boots began pushing me towards the skyscraper, I lashed her hair as I approached the window and we both went crashing through it into the ground.

I wasn’t above fighting dirty if it meant that life’s got saved nothing like what happened to my parents was ever going to happen again on my watch.

The suspect quickly got up but I was just as quick.

You don’t have the skills to take me on child said the suspect.

Try me I said.

Have it your way.

The suspect took out a katana held and ignited it a yellow light came out of it stretching out the same length as a katanna.

So, you fight with an energy Katanna that’s an impressive weapon I suppose if you’re scared to get close to your opponent I stated.

I assure you I am quite skilled in combat but since your so mouthy about it what is your prefer weapon officer said the suspect.

Glad you asked I stated. I took out my blades and ignited them. Purple light came out from each of them.

Short swords asked the suspect?

No duel daggers there just a bit longer than regular daggers but there not swords I stated.

It is irreverent your going to die here officer said the suspect.

The suspect raised her katanna and charged at me with her weapon drawn.

I blocked her attack with both my daggers then when she pressed the attack, I began to block with one dagger and attack with the other this threw her off like I was hoping it would and she was put on the defensive.

I continued to press my attack dodging when needed as she moved further and further back and into a wall.

My partner came bursting through a window and ignited her mace a blue light came out of the handle in the shape of a mace. Crystal glad you could join us I stated.

Of course, said Crystal.

Give it up your out numbered you cant get away and even if you could the whole department will be looking for you by now, I stated.

The sheep are so typical in there beliefs of how things work said the suspect.

What does that mean I asked?

It means that you have a lot to learn kid said the suspect and she began chanting.

Both Crystal and I looked at each other as clearly this lady had some sort of mental health issue which changed what we would do with the arrest she would be taken to the asylum instead of to prison.

But then to both Crystal and I surprise there was a flash of green light and she was gone.

What just happened I asked?

I am not sure said Crystal.

We need to meet up with the captain I stated.

Yes, I think we do said Crystal.

Crystal and I hopped into our police hover cruiser and then flew to the headquarters.

Captain we need to talk to you said Crystal.

I am kind of in the middle of something said the Captain.

Captain James it is urgent I stated.

The captain looked up from his papers and then at me and Crystal and nodded then motioned for us to follow the look on our face must have told him how important it was because suddenly we were more important than his papers.

Okay this is a safe place to talk tell me what is so urgent you needed to pull me away right this moment asked Captain James.

Crystal and I looked at each other not sure how to start.

Well asked Captain James.

We had a suspect cornered who had not was of escaping but somehow in a flash of light she did I stated.

It was like magic said Crystal.

I thought Captain James was going to order us locked in the asylum for a minute until he signed.

Can you tell me the color of the flash of light as she made her way out of the room asked Captain James?

Green sir I stated.

Ughh that’s not good said the captain.

Sir I asked?

Listen you too this is top secret information only our most senor officers and the military know about this but as they will want to question you directly, I am authorized to fill you in okay, so you see when our current government took over part of what led them to the Obsolete war was the rise of what were known as magi said Captain James.

Magi are a myth said Crystal.

No Magi are quite real its just that no one wanted people to remember Magi the Obsolete war was horrible for both sides, but it started because of the wrong doings of the Magi they abused there powers using them to enslave others.

But how could the non-magic users have fought against them I asked?

I think you are both smart enough to know that answer said Captain James.

Energy weapons I stated.

Yes, you see energy shields blocked the magi and there elemental attacks from being able to kill people that weren’t Magi and it wasn’t long after energy shields were invented that all modern day weapons were converted into energy weapons and the war took a turn you see people began rebelling against the magi before the invention of energy technology however it wasn’t long before the technology started being developed and once it came out it turned the Obsolete war in our favor said Captain James.

But shouldn’t the public be informed of the threat of the Magi so they know how dangerous they are I stated.

No, the Magi existence would only cause a mass panic among the masses and worse the Magi have a way of gathered non-Magi followers to their cause it is better to let the public think they are a myth said Captain James.

Okay but what happens now I asked?

What happens now is we run the description you have given me through our database as well as the federal database and see what hits and then we inform the military that there is a magi problem said captain James.

Very well lets get started then I stated.

We made our way to the computer room captain James sent everyone else home for the day which didn’t arouse any suspicion as Crystal, and I were often chosen for special under cover assignments when you bring in more perps in a month than some of the other partners do in a year you tend to be slightly favored by the captain.

She had black hair and tan skin she also was skilled in energy katanna combat I as well stated.

The captain ran some information through his computer, and it wasn’t long before a hologram of a woman pulled up in the middle of the room.

That’s her said Crystal.

Jada Bradley she’s on our most wanted list she’s wanted for over fifty murders as well as for here antigovernment ideologies said captain James.

Fifty murders that’s crazy said Crystal.

That is the harsh reality of who we are dealing with the Magi are incredibly dangerous your looking your both still alive especially being not all Magi bother to become skilled with energy weapons said captain James.

You mentioned the military who do we contact I asked?

For a most wanted this goes straight to Admiral Chamberlain said captain James.

Should we wait while you make the call I asked?

No go home tonight get rested up you two are going to have one of the biggest days of your life tomorrow when the military wants the briefing said captain James.

Very well goodnight captain I stated.

Goodnight I will see you both in the morning said captain James.

Crystal and I walked out together.

Take care I stated.

You too Zannah said Crystal.

I made my way to my hovercraft and took off towards my flat. It didn’t take me long to arrive and I quickly got showered and then dressed into my underclothes for the night.

I slid into my bed and pondered what the captain had told me. I remembered a flash of light like that the night my parents died could they have been killed by a Magi and if so, was that fugitive that the executed for the courthouse bombing the right fugitive.

Got to be the captain said that the government didn’t want the public to know about the Magi not that they weren’t punishing the Magi hints todays fugitive being on the most wanted list still I would like to ask the captain more about the fugitive who was executed for my parents death now that I have more information.

I had not reason to ever bring up so awful memories before now I hated it in a way but I was happy to be in the know and meeting the admiral could help up my chances for a promotion.

I slowly drifted off into sleep. When I awoke the next morning, I was quick to hop into the shower and then stepped out got dressed and brushed my teeth I took a look at my reflection as I brushed my hair.

My strawberry red hair stood out against my pale skin white skin. And my bright blue eyes I had been told they were tiel eyes at one point. But I wasn’t sure. My cat nudged me on my angles walking back and fourth between my legs.

Alright alright I will top off the food bowel I stated. I walked over too the cats food bowel and filled it when there was a knock on my door. I made my way over and peeked through the whole.

I saw Crystal smiling face starring straight through my door whole. I signed and then opened the door. You should really announce when your coming I stated.

Then you wouldn’t make me breakfast said Crystal.

That’s the point I stated. I grabbed cereal off the top of the fridge and poured her a bowel. Oh my is this your cat she’s beautiful said Crystal.

Her names Dimond I stated. Dimond huh I can get behind those jewelry names said Crystal.

I rolled my eyes Crystal lover her name she felt it made the jewelry a symbol of her rather than her being named after the jewelry. Of course, you like that name I stated.

Her eyes are so rare ones blue and one’s green said Crystal. That’s why I had to rescue her I stated.

What do you mean asked Crystal?

People believed her having eyes of two different colors made her evil a group of animal abusers I arrested were going to kill her I stopped them.

Oh, I remember reading about that it happened a year before I joined the department you stopped a illegal animal ring that year too that turned out to be connected to it all by yourself said Crystal.

Not all by myself I had my shadowbot with me I stated.

I nodded over to the wall were my bot was charging.

Why are you still using that model the shadow models are outdated we have life size bot models that can help in combat now?

They don’t last as long the shadow models may have been small, but they could fight for twice as long and they didn’t need as much instruction they had more ability to read a situation and besides I think its kind of a cute design how small they are I stated.

I will give you that the shadow bots are a way cuter design however my bouncer droid model gives me more comfort after all when some suspects see him draw his weapons they immediately back down.

Eh to each there own I stated.

Yeah though I do admit it surprises me so many people do back down after all its not like they can’t tell there bots the technology to make them look like humans isn’t there yet a good Emp would take them out still said Crystal.

Emps are illegal and very hard to get even on the black market I stated.

True enough anyways we should hid out you have put off meeting the admiral for as long as we can said Crystal.

That’s true lets go I stated.

We loaded into our hover cars and took off towards the station. It didn’t take long to arrive but both Crystal and I were taken back by what we saw. Captain James was standing there with a man in a blue and gold uniform, but the man eyes were golden yellow, and they glowed.

Ladies meet Admiral Chamberlain said captain James. Chamberlain sir this is Zannah and Crystal too of our best officers they are the ones you will need to talk too about the events with Jada Bradley said captain James.

Right the captain tells me you had Jada cornered but she disappeared in a flash of green light asked Admiral Chamberlain?

Yes sir we fought her and backed her into a corner but she um I can only describe it as flashed out I stated.

I was afraid of this we need to contain this situation before it gets out all agents on duty said Chamberlain.

Will do sir I will let the agents in the department know said captain James.

About that given the dangers present I am promoting these two too agents they are to be trained on how to take down a witch and start their assignments as soon as possible I am going to talk to the president and get permissions to have this entire department trained as agents said Chamberlain.

I looked forward to seeing that it will help to have all the officers on duty know what we are truly dealing with out there said Captain James.

Yes it would your all dismissed I have much paperwork to fill out said admiral Chamberlain.

We followed captain James out of the room. I guess you too need to come with me I am going to personally over sea your training so that I can make sure your as prepared as possible for what is coming said Captain James.

Captain if I may what exactly does being an agent entail we thought we knew however with our new information it is clear that what we thought we knew is different from what is factual said Crystal.

I had to give it to my partner sometimes she could think about the questions that mattered and other times she was tipsy as can be.

An agent primary job is to hunt Magi agents replaced the witch hunters after they were wiped out said Captain James.

Yes did a Magi do that asked Crystal.

Ah there’s her tipsy side I thought, after all we find out magics real, we see glowing eyes in a man and her question is did a witch do it no it was added to him through nuclear ration I thought.

Yes, I am glad you were both smart enough not to say anything a witch cursed him once and that ended up being the result it didn’t go quite the way the Magi expected she was trying to kill him with the curse but he gained the upper hand and took her down.

What kind of curse would make your eyes glow asked Crystal.

Ah that’s a question I was about to ask if my partner hadn’t beat me too it.

The sunshine curse it is meant to burn and enemy from the inside out however the admiral has traces of witch hunter blood not enough to stop magic out right like the old witch hunters but enough that the magic doesn’t work as well on him as it would on other people said captain James.

That’s scary said Crystal.

Yes, it is but enough questions for now you will learn all of this in the agent training courses said captain James.

We followed captain James into a training room. Your both already trained in energy weapons and shields now you need to learn how to use anti witch devices these will help protect you from witches elemental attacks as well as counter them said Captain James.

The captain picked up four gauntlets and tossed them at us.

We put them on. For today we are just going to get use too playing with the settings and reading the manuals and talking about what situation’s would work best with what setting said Captain James.

These hold a lot of features I stated.

Of course agents are out there hunting the governments biggest enemy they put a lot of money into making sure we had the best equipment possible said Captain James.

What setting do you think you have used the most or comes in handy the most I asked?

That would be the banshee feature it sends out a sonic shockwave that takes down Magi in a heartbeat however if there quick witted they can counter however it is good for crowd control as well so it has multiple uses think of it like your new replacement for tear gas said captain James.

What else can they do asked Crystal?

They produce ice fire and even can manipulate matter to some degree but for the last one they can only do that once every hour and then they need to recharge said Captain James.

Wait I thought only the president and secret service had these you mean we can teleport with these I asked?

Yes but use it as a last resort on top of the time it takes before you can do it again new science has shown that teleporting actually is extremely bad for human health said Captain James.

Noted one of the coolest feature’s is worthless I said a bit disappointed.

Well not worthless if you were going to die if you don’t use it said captain James.

I know its useful, but I am not looking to actively do anything that would harm my health so as you said last resort it is I stated.

True but all the other features are cool to play with too after all this has non-lethal sleep darts if you need them, it can also act as a tazzer said Captain James.

Its seem to have plenty of lethal options too there’s a poison spray said Crystal.

Yes keep in mind girls these witches are not going to hesitate to kill you if they get the chance after all what was the initially reason you were trying to stop Jada in the first place asked captain James?

She ran from us during a routine hover craft stop and we gave chase we didn’t know she was one the governments most wanted list I stated.

It funny the path life can take us on said captain James.

It is indeed I stated.

Oh anyways girls look at the time its been hours go home your shift’s are almost over anyways and remember as agents one of our top duties is to ensure this all stays secret even from the rest of the department until the admiral officially converts the entire department into an agency said Captain James.

Understood sir Crystal and I said at the same time.

Jinks you owe me a coke said Crystal.

Gross who drinks that crap I stated.

I do said Crystal.

That explains what is wrong with you drinking something that cleans pennies I stated.

Whatever lets just go said Crystal I smiled, and we made our way out to our hover crafts to fly home.

Its been quite a day said Crystal.

Yes, it has I stated.

Well anyways I’ll see you tomorrow for another eventful day said Crystal.

No kidding see you tomorrow I hoped in my hovercar and flew off towards home.

It didn’t take me long to arrive however something felt wrong when I pulled up. My cat diamond was siting outside on the balcony with her back arched and was hissing.

I hoped out of my hover car and got next to her she looked at me with her eyes with a look that seemed to stare into my soul and then looked back towards my flat.

Stay here I told her. I walked towards the flat as I drew out my energy daggers and ignted them the purple blades sparking to life.

I made my way to the flat door which was open and walked in when a gust of wind shot me against the wall.

I was caught off guard and dropped my energy daggers.

The wind pinned me to a wall as a figure walked up and ignited her energy katanna the yellow light from it brightened the room.

For what it is worth I am truly sorry about this said Jada.

Then why do it I yelled.

To protect the ones I love said Jada.

Jada raised her energy katanna and I turned my head away and closed my eyes.

A loud sound happened and something tiel blue flashed so brightly I could see the flash even with my eyes closed.

I opened my eyes and I was on the ground no longer pinned down by Jada wind and Jada was laying across the room against the wall without her weapon. I moved to get closer and Jada stirred then opened her eyes and started chanting.

Oh no you don’t not this time. I hit the banshee scream button on my gauntlet’s and Jada went down holding her ears. I picked up my daggers and got closure given Jada history I made a split second decision that it was better for the world if she wore not in it anymore.

I was about to bring down my energy daggers on her when a vision flashes in my mind of her and a child walking through the park.

Mommy what is your favorite flower asked the little girl?

The Tulips are my favorite said Jada.

Why mommy.

They just make me the happiest out of all the other flowers said Jada.

Do you like the other flowers too asked the little girl?

Yes, I like a lot of the other flowers too roses and Lily’s are beautiful said Jada.

Before the little girl could ask anything else a group of men surrender them, and all drew various kinds of energy weapons.

Jada Bradley you are wanted for murder surround now said a man with a voice amplifying station.

Mommy I’m scared said the little girl. Don’t be honey it will all be alright said Jada. In a split-second Jada grabbed her daughter and there was a flash of green light as the circle of men was standing around an empty space.

The vision stopped and I was back in the present.

I dropped my daggers and quickly set my gauntlets to sleep and fired them into Jada.

Jada tried to resist but as she started to chant she feel over.

I dug out my energy cuffs and locked them onto her. Then I made a call too my partner the captain and the Admiral asking them to all come to my place as back up for a prisoner transport. It didn’t take long before Crystal, James and Chamberlain were all at my place.

You took down Jada all on your own asked Chamberlain?

I didn’t have much of a choice she was going to kill me and it was her or me I stated.

It is quite impressive you managed to bring her in alive said Captain James. The sleep feature on the gauntlet’s came in handy I saw no reason to kill her when I had already disarmed her, I stated.

Those are the core values of being both and officer and an agent said Chamberlain. Well lets all head to the station we have to decided our next course of action said Chamberlain.

Yes we need to know what the president wants us to do with one of the most wanted Magi in the world said Captain James.

We made our way to the department in one hover craft that was an officer hovercraft but had multiple front seats so that groups of officers could set in the front as extra security when transporting highly dangerous criminals or multiple criminal’s at once.

It didn’t take us long to arrive at the department and we took Jada to our most advanced holding cell.

We lit the energy shield that held the cell door closed and then also ignited the bombing and sedation mechanism unless we wanted to speak to her, she would stay asleep and if she tired to break out the cell would blow and she would die it seemed harsh however she was guilty of multiple murders still though the vision I saw of her and her child had made me spare her.

And the visions were a weird thing for her to show me but being that I did spear her I suppose she got what she wanted out of them.

Before I could dwell on it any longer admiral Chamberlain asked to speak with me privately in the captains office.

Of course, sir I responded back through the comms and made my way to the captains office. I closed the door behind me and stood with my hands behind my back waiting for the admiral to address me he looked at me.

It is not often we meet a recruit with as much potential as you said Admiral Chamberlain.

Thank you, sir, I stated

Your welcome however I didn’t call you here just for pretty words we could use somebody like you at the center of our operations center said Admiral Chamberlain.

Your offering me a job I asked?

Sure am right in the heart of the country what do you say asked Admiral Chamberlain.

I am honored sir but this city has always been my home I wouldn’t feel at home anywhere else I stated.

Understood well is there anything else I can do for you asked Admiral Chamberlain?

Yes, actually sir I was hoping you would help me look into the death of my parents they were killed in the courthouse bombings initially it was thought that the killer had been caught and executed but I have my concerns now that I know about the magi that the killer may still be out there I stated.

I would be happy to help, and I remember the case your referring to the president sent many agents to investigate but we did not find any Magi but what makes you think that suspect wasn’t the right one asked Chamberlain?

Part of how I survived it was stupid luck in a way I had to use the restroom before I went in and for all this time until now I thought the flash of light that had happened was a result of the bomb however now knowing about the Magi and there abilities I feel it could have been a magi that blew up the courthouse I stated.

What color was the light asked Chamberlain?

It was blue I stated.

Hmm I will look into this however it was a long time ago and some of that footage may not be still available I promise you though if a Magi was the true culprit, we will find out said Chamberlain.

Thank you, sir, I stated.

Of course, after all I have to take care of my agents especially one so talented said admiral Chamberlain.

Thank you, sir I really do appreciate it I stated. Though it was getting awkward just saying thank you over and over again what else could I really say I wanted to switch the subject but then the admiral spoke up again.

No problem now you and Crystal should take off today your clearance levels have not yet been approved by the president so it would be best if you guys took today off.

Very well I will find my partner and inform her I stated.

With that I left the captain office and took off towards the evidence room after all I needed to grab the footage of the courthouse explosion. It didn’t take me long to get there. The guards just waved me by knowing I was one of the most resourceful officers had given me certain perks.

I made my way through the files quickly and downloaded them onto my usb then made my way out and began looking for crystal it didn’t take long to find her.

I came across my partner in one of our waiting areas. Wow Zannah you turned down the offer to go too the capital the operations division makes three times what we make what were you thinking asked Crystal?

It wouldn’t be home; plus how do you know about that it just happened I asked?

It could be home if you let it and I over heard the admiral telling the captain how disappointed he was you didn’t accept the job said Crystal.

It’s really not that big a deal I like the city I live in and besides I am sure somebody eles will want that job I stated.

That isn’t the point the point is you turned down a job most would kill for and Zannah the Admiral doesn’t make offers like that to new agents ever he can’t believe you beat Jada, do you know how many agents have tried to take her on asked Crystal?

No how many I asked?

Over a hundred and all died by her hands said Crystal.

How do you know that we only just become agents I stated?

While you were tangling with her, I was reading about her imagine my shock when we came to your place, and you had defeated her said Crystal.

It was mostly luck I stated.

I believe that to an extent but anyways I assume they told you were able to go home for the day asked Crystal?

Yes, want to go out for drinks I asked?

Yea lets do it said Crystal.

Crystal and I louded into our hovercrafts after deciding what bar we wanted to hit on our way home. We picked our usual one and went off towards it.

Admiral Chamberlain

Wake up you witch I stated.

Jada immediately sat up.

Oh its you my cousin really did a number on those eyes before you killed her yelled Jada.

Quiet witch I have questions I stated.

Witch is a term made up by small minded people who were scared of the Magi and what we can do but I guess those small minded people were your ancestors said Jada.

Quiet I need to know where the Arch-Magi is I stated.

As if I would ever tell you where she is she is one of the ones we will drive a change back to the old ways.

You will if you want your child to be safe, I can arrange a full pardon for them I stated.

A pardon for a 11-year-old girl what crimes has she committed that you would target her for asked Jada.

Aiding and abiding a murderer I stated.

Your threats mean nothing admiral my child is not in the states she is in Europe and despite the lies you tell your citizens we both know that Europe doesn’t share the same views from the obsolete wars as you do given that king Arthur rose and reunited all of Europe under one banner with the help of a Magi Merlin and they accept all citizens Magi or not your scared of your citizens finding out because if they were to realize the truth the large majority would side with Magi and you and your agents would lose your power said Jada.

It’s a good think they will never find out then I hit sedate button knocking Jada back out.

But what she said had gotten to me it was true that during the obsolete wars Europe had decided that the magi were not to be feared and every citizen would be respected regardless of who they were but they didn’t have magi committing the same crimes as we did here after all they had help of a mystical king and a powerful Magi of old to guide them American’s had only a group of people who came forward from Salem who had taught there Magi killing skills down the line that group was part of my family but there where others spread out through America.

I wanted to poison Jada before she could cause anymore trouble but it didn’t sit right with me to do that after all if I killed someone without a trial who was not an immediate threat then everything I thought I was working for would be for nothing Jada had committed horrible crimes but she needed to be put on trial still before being executed.

I walked into the evidence room and began checking though old files of the Missouri court bombings that had killed Zannah parents after all I did promise I would look into and I was curious if she might be right about a magi being responsible if so we could use that later if the citizens did find out about Magi to convince the public that we didn’t want a wide spread panic.

Even still Jada had a point our government actively lied to our citizens while other government’s were living in peace with the magi the only difference between us was a set of abilities and was that really so different from non-magic users after all not everyone one is a scientist or a writer and not everyone can do everything.

Perhaps we should work towards peace.

I reviewed the footage including the footage of them finding a teenage girl in the after math who was out cold but still alive. I replayed the footage from different angles over and over again however I did not see the flash of blue light that Zannah described all I saw was a building come down in a fiery mess after a loud boom.

Hmm but still the idea that a typical human managed to get a bomb passed all the security check points never sat well with me but at the time I didn’t have the rank to do anything more about it I was just starting out in the military it wasn’t my place to ask questions then now I could ask all I wanted as there was now higher rank than me when it came to the operations division for Magi control.

I watched as many more hours of the footage as I could before my eyes get heavy and I decided to call it a night.

Zannah

Crystal and I drank a lot and had hit the dance floor for several hours both her and I rejected any guys offer to dance we weren’t interested in meeting a guy in a bar. We both parted ways and set our hover crafts to auto pilot.

It didn’t take me long to get home and land on my landing pad and walk into my flat. Diamond came out and walked in between my legs meowing.

Did you run out of food kitty I will feed you I stated. I walked over to the food bowel and refilled it I checked the circulating water dish. It was still pretty full so I made my way too the shower stripped off my clothes quickly took a shower and then slipped on my under clothes and went to bed.

I awoke to the alarm blaring I switched it off and changed into my new clothes for the day. I looked at my phone and saw a group message.

Congrats girls your clearances have been approved please see the captain and I in his office as soon as you get in sincerely Admiral Chamberlain.

I pet diamond on my way out and then hopped in my hover car and took off towards the station. It didn’t take me long to arrive. I walked in and Crystal nearly ran me down as she ran over to me, I took a view steps back.

Let’s head that way said Crystal.

Crystal and I made our way into the captain officer.

Good morning ladies said Captain James.

Morning Crystal and I said in unison though I noticed she wasn’t making any jinks jokes today I suppose that was because she wanted to show the admiral, she was a professional.

So, ladies I asked you both to meet us here this morning because now that your clearance has been approved we want you to try your hand at interrogating Jada she has vital information we need and we feel she may be more likely to talk to a woman rather than men we would like you to each try separately we will try to monitor but you should know that Jada as a powerful Magi will be able to block out comms even from behind the energy cell doors said Admiral Chamberlain.

We always can use our emergency button on our comms device said Crystal.

Unfortunately, not she can block that too said Chamberlain.

We will be safe Jada can not escape her cell and we have the sedation button if she starts chanting any nonsense I stated.

So the big question who should go first asked Crystal?

Flip you for it I asked?

Heads you tails me said Crystal.

Crystal flipped the coin,

Tails your up I stated.

I got this said Crystal.

Crystal

We need to know some information from you I stated after I woke up Jada from her sleep.

Oh, joy the admiral sent a child to do his job he must really be desperate said Jada.

I looked down at a slip of paper the admiral had given me on my way in.

How many more Magi are here in the St Charles region I asked?

Thousands said Jada.

No lies I stated.

Child I am not lying you will see soon enough said Jada.

So there’s an impending attack I asked?

Jada laughed. Your generation would think that given all the bull shit they have filled into your head no there is no impending attack what there is a plan for people to know the truth said Jada.

What do you mean I asked?

Think about it child you didn’t know about Magi until they had to tell you now think what else could they be keeping from you after all you should know if they will lie about something like our existence they will lie about any and everything said Jada.

Where done here I hit the sedation button and walked out. I hated that a small part of me believed Jada might be telling the truth after all as officers we should have known about the threat of the Magi even if the government didn’t want the everyday citizens to know.

Did you find out anything asked Admiral Chamberlain?

Nothing concrete sir there may be an impeding attack however it is just as likely that she was just bluffing she kept muttering about revealing the truth to the public and claims that there are thousands of Magi in the St Charles Region.

The admirals eyes seemed to darken al though it was hard to tell with his eyes being literally bright glowing neon yellow eyes. But then again if he thought thousands of people who could cast a sunshine curse were in this city as well as the surrounding city’s then I could see why he didn’t look pleased.

Your up Zannah said Captain James.

Sure am said Zannah.

Zannah

I was eager to see if I could get any more information out of Jada than Crystal did.

I walked up to the energy cell and hit the buttons to wake Jada from her sedation.

I was hoping they would send you next said Jada.

Why what is so special about me to you why did you try to kill me I asked?

Not just you afterall you were only going to be the first target I needed to take out the department here in order for the grand magi to be safe to tell the citizens the truth said Jada.

The truth about what I asked?

Us after all Magi shouldn’t be hidden so that the government can hunt us for simply being Magi said Jada.

So you want to tell the citizens about your kind I asked?

Our kind girl shouted Jada!

One don’t call me girl your only thirty and two what do you mean our kind I’m not a Magi I stated.

Don’t give me that you only beat because you were using magic do you think my own spell would have thrown me across the room said Jada.

No you may have convinced me to spear your life but I am not going to fall into this delusion I am not a magi I would know I stated.

You didn’t even know the Magi existed until recently how would you know if you were one tell me something why do you think I convinced you to spear me asked Jada.

Because you showed me all those memories of you and your daughter, I couldn’t bear the thought of killing you knowing you had a young daughter out there not when my parents were taken from me prematurely.

I did nothing of the sort those visions where a result of your own Magi abilities said Jada.

No that cant be I stated.

What more evidence do you need it would track in more ways than one you survived the courthouse bombings when everyone eles died how asked Jada?

I don’t know I just remember a bright blue light coming through the walls I stated.

That light to come through the wall’s it came from you that was your way of trying to protect yourself said Jada.

I don’t believe you I stated.

Weather you do or don’t is irrelevant it is factual but listen to me go home take you cat and flee go to Europe magi are safe there said Jada.

I can not go to Europe no one has been able to travel there from here do to the radiation levels that were left from when the countries all fired there nuclear war heads.

Oh child that never happened the nuclear war heads where discontinued listen I say this from the bottom of my heart to you if they find out what you are they will kill you so Go to Niagara falls Canada and jump into the water from the top of the falls.

Commit suicide yea nice try I stated.

It is not suicide for a Magi it is a teleportation from here to there but don’t take my word for it take your familiar’s.

My familiar I asked?

Cats are smart however your cat is way smarter than the average cat that was not a normal cat you have it is a familiar a Magi’s Guide said Jada.

I wanted to shout she was lying but somewhere deep down it felt true.

What happens to you I asked?

Jada looked genuinely surprised by my question.

They will execute me it is okay my child is safe and one day she will understand what I died for said Jada.

I thought for a minute I didn’t know what to think I wasn’t sure Jada deserved to die if everything she was saying was true then what if Jada had only ever killed in self defense in non magic user cases we do have guidelines where we let killers go if there actions could not be avoided are they are there loved ones would have died.

Admiral Chamberlain would be unlikely to want to hear me out but this wasn’t sitting well with me and while I trusted the Captain and Crystal I didn’t want to drag them down with me as if they did side with me it would likely be considered treason.

I tapped on the council and opened the energy shield doors and dropped the gates.

Can you teleport us to my place for me to get Dimond I asked?

Why are you doing this I tried to kill you asked Jada?

Because as much as I want you to be lying things seem to have clicked into place and If you truly were acting in self defense then the courts should have found you innocent instead they are the ones that are hunting you not to mention if you are telling the truth about Niagara falls then you can take me there but you’ll be the first to jump I stated.

Sounds good take my hand and were off.

I hesitated but there was no going back now I slipped my hand into Jada’s and in flash of greenlight we were at my place.

Quickly back whatever quick esstianls your going to need and then we will get out of here said Jada. ’

I hurried and made sure Dimond was in her usual spot then through some clothes and a toothbrush into a bag and then grabbed Dimond and walked back to Jada.

I’m ready I stated.

Good lets go said Jada.

I took her hand again and we were gone in another flash of greenlight.

General Chamberlain

Somethings wrong she has been in there too long lets go I stated.

Captain James and Crystal followed right behind me we bursed through the door.

There gone said Crystal.

Alert every agent in the vicinity find them I sated.

Captain James made the call to all avaible agents and then the three of us each took off into a different hovercraft.

If anything happened to Zannah it was on me I never should have had a new agent try to interrogate a prisoner as high profile as Jada.

I would do my best to find her though.

Zannah

Where are we going I asked?

Canada Jada responded.

But why are we walking through all these woods I asked?

Because detective your kind will be hunting us now and this way we are a lot less likely too get us caught.

I continued walking behind Jada wondering if I made a huge mistake.

No you chose right said a female voice in my head.

Am I losing it I thought?

No though it makes since you would think so familiars have always had the ability to talk to there Magi however with you not knowing what you were it would have broken your mind it not something that can be done with a Magi that doesn’t know who or what they are.

Dimond so its true that I asked?

Yes, everything Jada said is true.

Then I made the right decision I have been wondering that I made it within moments of what Jada told me without even truly pondering it I stated.

That is because Magi have good instincts what she said is true you need to escape this country, or they will kill you the same as they would kill her said Dimond.

It was you that blasted Jada across the room that night wasn’t it I asked?

The answer to that is both yes and no a familiar shares power with there Magi it is true I summoned it that night however the power was yours said Dimond.

Oh, that’s a trip I stated.

You will get more adjusted to things in time.

Why doesn’t Jada have a familiar with her I asked?

I think your smart enough to know the answer just as I was not with you every second of everyday Jada’s familiar doesn’t need to be with her all the time said Dimond.

I suppose that does make sense or at least as much sense as anything else about the Magi seems to make this whole thing is going to be an adjustment I stated.

Indeed, but Europe will be the best place for you to safely learn the states can’t afford to go to war with Europe king Arthur has way to many who support him not to mention the magi of America would rally to king Arthur said Dimond.

Isn’t that already happening I asked?

To some extent yes but there are thousands of magi hiding in the states choosing to lay low however if a war was to break out you can bet those in hiding would seize the chance to support a change in society said Dimond.

Forgive me but weren’t the magi in the wrong originally if they aren’t now based on what the captain told us the Magi were hunted for a reason.

The captain only know what lies he has been feed said Dimond.

But surly that captain thought to question those things at some point I asked?

Did you think to question your society until you found out you were Magi asked Dimond?

I paused Dimond had a point after all I hadn’t ever considered anything was wrong with my society.

No I answered.

Then you see how it was easy for the captain to be lid astray but that’s not important now what is important is that Jada is helping your get to Europe where you will be safe said Dimond.

We continued on in silence I wasn’t sure what to think of the things Dimond had told me after all it was still a lot to process there was an entire group of people with abilities that had been forced to hide from society because society was hunting them the worst war known to history was an attempt to wipe them out that clearly hadn’t completely worked.

Of that war modern day technology was made that allowed me to fight with energy daggers.

Your going to spiral if you think about it too much said Dimond.

I’m going to spiral if I don’t think about it I stated.

Fair enough said Dimond.

Can Jada hear you I asked?

Dimond only if I chose otherwise our conversation remains between us it is uncommon for familiar to talk to other Magi unless there is a need for it said Dimond.

I see I stated.

Jada held up her hands.

What’s wrong I asked?

Nothing I just think this is a good place to stop for tonight said Jada.

Stop why what time is it I asked?

Midnight and we need to rest but we will need to get up as soon as the soon rises we don’t want to lose our lead on escaping by now your former co workers are sure to be looking for you which is something we need to be mindful of said Jada.

Makes sense I stated.

I will go and gather some sticks said Jada.

I can help I stated

No I think its best you unwind after all you have had a big day and well Im worried about your metal health if you don’t take it easy said Jada

This from the woman he previously tried to kill me is kind of weird I stated.

I know but believe me I am doing what is best for you now I didn’t know you were Magi and the magi always stick together when I tried to kill you I thought I was doing good for the magi said Jada.

What about the others in my department Crystal and James are good people who may get caught up in magi antics.

No there good people that may get caught up in agent antics the admiral is dragging them down with his hunt against the Magi I wont lie to you it is possible that a magi may have to defend themselves against James or Crystal and they will most likely use deadly force said Jada

I just looked down after all what could I say to that it was awful, but they may have been ordered by the admiral to use that deadly force against me Jada had a point I didn’t want to admit it though and she was being honest with me which is more than I can say for the admiral and worse James should have told me about the Magi sooner before I met Jada.

At least your honest I finally muttered.

Its going to be okay Zannah your going to be fine you’ll make friends in Europe, and you will be under the protection of king author himself you have nothing to worry about said Jada.

Well, that is somewhat reassuring I stated.

Just hang in there kid said Jada

Jada walked off before we could say anything more to each other.

I not knowing what else to do sat down beneath a tree.

Dimond curled up into my lap and purred.

I petted her.

Jada came back with a handful of wood dumped it onto the ground but just before it hit the ground a small circle opened and the wood landed into it.

Whoa that was cool I stated.

That’s earth magic one of the elemental magics which are the most powerful kind said Jada.

Can Magi use any form of magic I asked?

Yes unless they are no longer Magi said Jada.

What do you mean I asked?

A magi can choose to combined there power into one element and it changes them on a cellar level they become what is known as an elemental and are the most powerful in that element said Jada.

That’s crazy I stated.

Yes, it is because it doesn’t come without serious risk some Magi die turning the transformation and the thing about if it works is that as an elemental you may be the most powerful in that element but you are susceptible to that elements weakness said Jada

So, if a fire elemental was dosed with water would they die I asked?

They wouldn’t die but they would be weakened for several hours until they could recover said Jada.

I like my humanity I stated.

That was my thought as well said Jada.

I tried to reposition to get more comfortable however stick kept jamming me in my legs and rear end.

Jada pointed at the spot I was sitting, and it immediately got softer.

Thanks, I stated.

Your welcome try to sleep we still have a long way to go before we get there said Jada.

It wasn’t hard for me to take Jada’s advice my eyes were heavy I feel asleep almost immediately.

Admiral Chamberlain

This is on you shouted James!

I am trying to fix it I stated.

Fix it, it never should have happened to begin with after all you had no buniess sending a rookie agent in there said James.

I have that right in case your forget I am the admiral here captain.

But the captain is right my friend and partner wouldn’t be missing if it wasn’t for your actions why should we have been sent to interrogate a magi on the most wanted list when we had only just found out Magi exist said Crystal.

You would do will to mind your place if your value your new position I stated.

If my new position means dealing with pompous ass wholes like you who will endanger my friends it isn’t worth it said Crystal.

The captain started to say something but I held up my hand.

Your right I stated

Both Crystal and the Captain looked like they were about to go into shock.

Listen I am sorry this happened I knew Jada could block comms but even a Magi of her caliber should never have been able to get out of the cell and Zannah had defeated her once before even if it was partly luck it had to be a lot of skill too for her to have beat Jada but look I cant change the mistake I made and all this Pickering is doing very little to help your friend I stated.

I don’t know what to do Zannah is a warrior but she has a timid side I worry Jada could use against her said Crystal.

What do you mean I asked?

Zannah is actually super shy I befriend her and took her out for the first time but it took me six months before she was interested in doing anything like that said Zannah.

I am sure she will be fine even with a timid side she did beat Jada I stated.

Out of luck admiral said Crystal.

Crystal take a walk said Captain James.

Crystal turned and left the room without saying anything more.

You know as well as I that Zannah may already be dead said James.

I refuse to believe that after all Jada could have killed her here I stated.

True but Jada most likely knows that an agents clearances are pulled the moment they go missing in action so why take Zannah with her it doesn’t track said Captain James.

I have wondered that too and what I keep coming back too is it has to do with how her parents died she was the only survivor of the court bombings it has got to be related I stated.

Then lets find out said Captain James.

Zannah

I woke up to Jada shaking me awake.

Come on get up Zannah.

I yawned and opened my eyes. It wasn’t hard to pick up that the sky was still completely dark. I looked at my gauntlet.

It only three in the morning I stated.

I know but I screwed up okay in my hurry to get you out of there we left behind something very important said Jada.

What’s that I asked?

Your shadowbot they record even when there offline despite what the government tells you we need to get it before they do said Jada.

So were heading back?

No there’s another way but its almost as risky as heading back still there isn’t a whole lot of options we need to do it.

What way is that I asked?

We need to teleport it from your flat to us said Jada

I only just found out I was a Magi I don’t know how to do that I stated.

No time like the present I will walk you threw it said Jada.

I stood up.

Okay tell me what to do I stated.

Jada smiled.

Lock hands with me and imagine your shadow bot try to remember as many details about it as possible including where it is on your flat.

I closed my eyes and did what Jada said.

I imagined they shadowbot I could see it know with its mechanical arms and the two energy daggers it used I made its fighting style a replica of my own style after all it was what I knew best I imagined the black paint of the bot.

I have got it I stated.

Good now imagine it in this forest with us.

I did as Jada instructed and soon there was a flash of blue light and I opened my eyes to see the bot standing before us.

It started to draw its energy daggers when it spotted Jada however I held up my hand.

Stop she is no threat I stated.

The bot nodded and then starred at Dimond and reached down and petted her.

That’s strange that is unusual behavior for a shadowbot said Jada.

I programmed it to act with compassion however I also updated its driver so that it has a degree of free will the technology is advanced enough that ai intelligence does exist however I couldn’t tell my co workers what I had done as it is considered illegal to mess around with bots interfaces on the level that I have I stated.

And you didn’t think that maybe just maybe that alone was enough proof you shouldn’t trust the government asked Jada?

Well in the government’s defense on that one a lot of the people who tampered with bots did commit mass homicides I stated.

Jada grimaced

I’m sorry I shouldn’t be so anti government with you after all you had your reasons to trust them I just haven’t had good experiences said Jada

The vision showed me you in a park with your daughter please tell me what happened I am sorry to ask something so personal but it will help me a lot to know I’m doing the right thing by going with you I stated

Jada signed.

I will tell you the day they came to arrest me it caught me off guard I didn’t know they knew who I was or I would have never had my daughter in the park however I should have figured they would have had some way of finding me there accusation of murder was true but it was a half truth the first time I killed I was trying to save the life of my husband he had been exposed as a Magi saving the life of a teenage girl near his work the girl had fallen off the roof with not other way to save her he chose to use magic however he was no rewarded for saving the girl said Jada

The people were afraid of him weren’t they I asked?

Yes he decided it was best to leave immediately but agents were waiting for him by the time he got to the bottom floor of his workplace and he had to fight his way out by the time he got to me that night he was trenched in blood some his but most of it the agents he had killed on his way to me and our daughter he told me what had happened and that we had to go we were grabbing the things we needed when a hundred agents stormed the place we made sure our daughter was safe and then we fought harder than we had ever had to fight before by the end of it several agents laid dying or dead but so did my husband was fatally wounded with anti-magic weapons nothing we could do would heal him and there wasn’t time to look for a hospital he made me promise to keep our daughter safe and I promised him I would just before the life left his eyes then I took my daughter and ran we even had a contact to make us fake identities but they still found us

I’m sorry Jada that is awful.

You can see why I hate the government I didn’t get to say goodbye to my husband and my daughter lives in a land unknown to her because of there hatred of what they do not understand.

I can see how that would warp you against them I am sorry to pry but as I am still new to being a magi I have to know when your husband was first ambushed couldn’t he have teleported to you?

No the power takes years to master at the time we weren’t master Magi’s we were only novice a step above beginner’s.

Oh I see there was something in the back of my mind I hesitated to say but being Jada and I had an unusual relationship I decided It was worth asking.

You didn’t just help me because of what they would do to me if they find out did you there were other reasons for it weren’t there?

Jada looked at me and smiled.

Your smart kid yes there are one your familiar may have channeled your power when she attacked me to stop me from killing you that night however for someone who didn’t even know they were Magi your power is impressive you may be a great aid for the Magi’s cause and two red hair was a trait that my husband had and it surprisingly surpassed my genes of dark hair and passed into my daughter said Jada.

I remind you of her I stated

Yes that night I hated what I was doing you aren’t that old really and well for me to take a life especially one I knew was innocent in some ways was never what I wanted said Jada

Then why do you try to do it I stated, but even as I said it I knew the answer.

I can tell from the look on your face you have already put together why said Jada.

Because you had to do what is best for your daughter and the agents are a threat to her regardless of what they know or don’t know I stated

Jada nodded

Yes they are a huge threat to Magi and as you can imagine my daughter is of course a Magi given that both me and her father were said Jada.

Yes it makes logical sense is much as I want to deny it I can’t say for sure what I would have done in your shoes so I will say this I forgive you lets just move forward.

Does that mean were friends asked Jada?

I thought for a moment it.

I think it does we slept together in the same area without trying to kill or detain the other I stated.

I think it has been a while since I have had a friend said Jada.

Its like riding a bike you don’t really forget how to have one I stated.

Well at the very least I will learn as we go but come on since we are both up we should get moving we still got a long way to go before we make it to the falls in Canada.

We grabbed our stuff then headed out. Dimond climbed onto the shadowbot shoulder.

You two good I asked.

The shadow pot held up both its thumbs at me.

Its nice to see you have heart you managed to make something inanimate seem so lifelike said Jada.

Its funny you see him as lifelike Crystal was giving me trouble for not upgrading to the life size models.

I think you made the right call the life size models don’t have half the lifetime that the shadowbot models do said Jada

That’s what I said.

We continued on our way for several hours before we both tired out and had to stop again.

I will gather wood for us you can wait here and rest said Jada.

Wait Jada I am sure Rumple would be happy to do it.

The shadowbot looked at me then Jada and saluted then scurried off to college wood.

You named your shadowbot Rumple asked Jada?

Yes I like the old stories and maybe it is because I upgraded him but I am pretty attached to him I can’t believe I almost left him behind I stated.

To be fair you had a lot on your mind after all most people aren’t being hunted the way you are and you just found out about being a Magi it makes sense he wasn’t exactly your main focus currently said Jada

Still it was irresponsible of me I won’t let it happen again I stated.

Well it is good to recognize ones mistakes I guess said Jada.

Yea so I was wondering why are you so skilled with an energy weapon after all Magi are deadly without them what made you end up using a energy katanna?

Because while it is rare there are certain times a Magi will not have any power or that a agent may have just the right device to counter there powers prime example of this being your gauntlets they are made to be able to counter just about every attack a Magi has said Jada.

I suppose that makes sense but what made you pick the katanna of all weapons I asked?

I use to be an antique collector and I loved all kinds of swords from around the world but my favorite were always the katanna after all they had some of the best craftmanship and after my husband died I decided that I would be able to fight in everyway possible from energy weapons to hand to hand said Jada.

Who taught you I asked?

Morgana said Jada.

Morgana as in the Morgana?

Yes her and king author aren’t enemies like the old legends would have you believe she is one of king Arthurs closet allies and a skilled battle Magi said Jada

Wow part of me is excited to meet them at part of me worries I am going to be super nervous to meet suck historic figures in the flesh.

They will love you trust me the Arthurian court is the most welcoming court in the world and remember that you being a Magi is considered a positive thing there said Jada.

I suppose there’s that I stated.

Well we should probably get to bed we still have a bit of a ways to go before we reach Canada said Jada.

Yea that’s true I stated.

We both laid back and tried to go to sleep it didn’t take long for me to drift off.