Summoned

~`~`~`~`~` ( Author Notes ) `~`~`~`~`~

Chapter 37 is here. This will be packed with action. The whole gang will be there…who lives is still unknown but with Slaiden on the prowl, anyone is game. ;)

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Note: Story is in Harley’s POV unless stated otherwise in chapters.
“Blah blah” – Normal speech
“Blah blah” – Thought of character
(Blah blah) – Author comments

Chapter 37

Things were finally looking up for me. Thanks to Ryan, I found out that football practice is beginning tonight. I should have figured it out sooner since Ryan is no longer injured from last season. Ryan may be graduating this year but since he has a chance to try out for college, Coach Norris is letting him practice with the team this summer to keep him and a few other graduates in shape and Zack was among them. How any school wanted him is beyond me. That aside, Ryan, caught up in the competitive energy of any serious athlete, even told us the whole night’s plan at lunch. At 7pm the team would all meet in the gym for a pre-season meeting along with a provided dinner, going over summer practice plans and what to improve on for next season. And of course no team meeting would be complete without the couch saying a few inspirational words. Once all the Remember the Titan’s like words were said, the boys would suit up and hit the field around 8pm.

They’d do drills until 9pm, take a quick break then have a scrimmage game to see where everyone stands. Ryan said that Coach Norris would probably call it off a bit before 11pm depending on who was still able to walk straight. This bit of information was especially important to me because this would be prime time for Slaiden to strike if he shows up at the school tonight. The field would be well lit so I could bet that Slaiden would break into the deserted school building and wait for the team to all leave the locker room. Sometime between then and getting to his car is when Slaiden will isolate Zack and attack.

This reason is why I am currently sitting in my car with my lights off in the far back of the student parking lot about a half hour before everyone is supposed to show up. My plan is to watch everyone arrive, personally scouting out for Zack to make sure he’s here, wait it out throughout their practice time then slip in the school through the boys locker room exit at the gym about 10 minutes before practice is supposed to end. The whole time of practice my eyes will be on the skies.

I can care less about Slaiden knowing I’m here; it’s a fact we both knew would happen. I can even imagine that he would even be a bit disappointed if I didn’t show up at all. He may not know my true reason for being here but it doesn’t matter, he won’t be surprised in the slightest. I wouldn’t even think he was capable of that emotion if I hadn’t have witnessed it first hand when my foot had made contact with his back in attempt to save Mark Hanson. No, Slaiden is almost always composed, fully aware of his surroundings. Which means Gavin, Trisha and Louis will also be on his radar. Trisha may be a mystery to Slaiden but it won’t matter to him, just another human trying to get in his way. They are all risking their lives tonight and it makes me sick to my stomach. Our plan is less then bullet proof and with Slaiden knowing our locations, it’s the perfect setup for failure. We have alternatives for every scenario change but our goal mustn’t change. I told them all earlier that no matter what happens get the summoner. If Zack dies, let it go just get the summoner. If Slaiden attacks one of us, let whoever fight him off and get the summoner. If something happens to me, whatever it may be, let me go and get the summoner. The main focus was getting the summoner above all costs. Trap him and make him send Slaiden back, preferably before Slaiden kills Zack. I can care less what happens to me at this point. All I care about is the safety of everyone else and that justice is brought down on the summoner.

Suddenly the sight of oncoming headlights snaps me out of my worries. The first car is arriving. Becoming fully alert, I grab the walkie-talkie resting in my cup holder, put in my ear piece and press the button. “Karate Kid to Magnum PI…”

“…Magnum PI…” responds Detective Gavin.

“…First arrival. Others now following…”

“…Keep position and inform us when he arrives…”

“…Yes sir, clear…”

I adjust myself lower in my seat as I place the radio back in the cup holder. Louis had come up with the idea for all of us to use radios to communicate tonight because everyone trying to call or text would be too unorganized and a huge risk for misinformation. While old school, the walkie-talkies are proving their worth. They get to everyone and we can all be as vague or as detailed as needed. I also just think they’re fun to use but that’s the kid in me trying to lighten the mood. Louis even came up with code names just in case someone happens to pick up our channel. Mine is the ever fitting Karate Kid, Gavin’s is Magnum PI, Trisha’s is Miss Scarlet and Louis is Nightwing. He upgraded from Gavin’s initial, if not joking, suggestion of Robin. Names aside, our identities are kept secret as we observe the scene.

As I watch several more cars show up, I relay everyone’s position in my mind. Gavin was near the field with his dog, appearing as if on a walk and decided to watch the local team practice. Trisha was parked across the street, keeping an eye on the main doors in case someone, hopefully the summoner, tried to enter the building. This left Louis doing laps with his car around the block. He wanted to be furthest away from the scene, not that I blamed the guy, not everyone was cut out for confrontation. I was just glad that Trisha and Louis are able to help before the murder and not after. The lab thinks Trisha is at a conference out of town and since Trisha is the supervisor, Louis was able to use his sick day with no questions asked.

I watch further as some of the boys get out of their cars and start to socialize. A few start heading towards the building with their gear in hand. I also see Ryan’s truck pull up which makes me lower even further in my seat along with a few nervous curse words. Last thing I need is for him to see me. I’m already freaking out enough that he could possibly be in danger if he’s still here when Slaiden shows up. Luckily Ryan doesn’t notice my car sitting a few yards away as he gets out and joins his team mates as the rest of them head into the building. Zack finally arrives as well. He joins some friends and they all walk away. I inform everyone he’s here as laughing can be heard from the boys. I continue to sit in the dark and watch the stragglers pull up. I wait until ten minutes pass since the meeting started before I sit up straight and contact the others again.

“Karate Kid to all units, no need to respond. All members are in the building. Clear…”

Good thing I brought homework and music because now it’s the waiting game.

( Around 10pm )

“Miss Scarlet to Karate Kid…”

“Alright if the cosign is…Huh? Is Slaiden here?!” I jolt at the sound of Trisha’s voice in my ear. I instantly look to the night sky but see no sign of Slaiden. Giving a small sigh of relief I pick the radio to respond. “…Karate Kid…”

“…Another car is pulling up…”

I look to the parking lot entrance and just as she said another car is entering.

“…I see it, stand by…” I respond as I watch the car slow down to search for an open spot. The car is a common model so I can’t tell who it is just yet. I watch it park in between a few players cars. Its lights go off and I can hear the engine die. It sits there a few moments with no inside movement. “You’re obviously not a football player so who are you mystery man? C’mon, come out…”

A few seconds later the car door opens and a leg and arm are visible. Then the person completely steps out to reveal someone most unexpected. “Jeff?! What the hell are you doing here?.....No…it can’t be…”

I fumble with my radio to alert the others. “…I-it’s my friend…”

“…This is Magnum PI, threat or false alarm?”

“…H-h-hold on, I-I mean st-stand by…”

“Damn it! Stay calm Harley!” I mentally scream in frustration as I watch Jeff, trying to calm myself. Jeff ducks back into his car, pulling out his backpack. He hefts it over his shoulder and looks casually around the parking lot. He doesn’t notice my car at all as he turns and heads not to the school but to the football field. I let out the breath I’d been holding. Jeff isn’t going to the school, he’s going to see Ryan practice.

“…False alarm, he’s going to watch my other friend practice…” I say with a much steadier voice.

“…Good, clear…” Gavin’s voice says.

I watch Jeff’s shrinking form disappear from sight as he rounds the stands near the field. While my suspicion is once more put at ease, I know have to worry about Ryan AND Jeff getting caught in the crossfire. “Ugh, this night is getting worse by the hour…”

A half hour goes by and I decide to move out. I alert everyone then stealthily move between cars to get to the school. I make it to the locker room door without any problems. Scanning the area for people, I open the door and enter. Not even two steps in, my radio goes off.

“Nightwing to all units, suspect is in sight. Clear…”

“And it just got worse, shit.” Acting fast, I get through the locker room, ignoring the gross smell of sweaty sports gear. I enter the dark gym and figure out where to hide to wait for Zack. My eyes settle on the open stands near the locker room entrance so I climb up half way to be out of anyone’s sight.

“Miss Scarlet to all units, suspect is on the roof, facing field. Clear…”

“Alright, Slaiden’s on the roof. So how much time do I have?” I silently wonder but a second later I get my answer.

“Magnum PI to all units, practice is over. Hold your positions. Karate Kid what is your location?…”

“Well, that answers that. I hope Ryan and Jeff leave before Zack.” I think before answering. “…The gym…”

“…Hold until you see target. We will move in once suspect does. Clear…” Gavin instructs.

I nod to myself and wait patiently for a few moments but it’s not long before the sound of exhausted young men fill the room a few feet away from me. I crouch lower at the sound of Coach Norris speaking and showers starting. A few boys not showering come out but Zack, Ryan and Jeff aren’t among them. I count off the boys for the next five minutes, the latest coming out with wet hair. Soon about three quarters of the team has left along with the assistant coach. I mentally take note that Coach Norris will be the last to leave.

“Miss Scarlet to all units, suspect is going to roof access entrance…”

“Shit! Slaiden’s on the move and none of the guys have shown up yet…is Jeff even in the locker room? Would Coach let him?...it’s too much to keep track of!” I think as my nails dig into the wood bleachers.

“…Magnum PI to all units, suspect has entered the building. Moving in. Miss Scarlet, Operation: Key. Nightwing keep watch until notified. Clear…”

“See ya later guys!” Yells Ryan as he emerges from the locker room, bag in hand and wet hair. He walks right across the gym to the main hallway…alone.

“Where’s Jeff? If he’s not here does that mean he’s outside?” I silently question. I consider asking Trisha if he left but as long as he’s not in the school he shouldn’t be an issue. I see a few more players leave. The whole team is just about gone but still no Zack. I’m getting a bit on edge but freeze at the sound of Coach Norris.

“Tambil, ya look good out there but ya gotta step up your game if ya wanna get on that team. Ya only got a few months so give it yer all. Now hurry up so I can lock up. It’s gettin’ late.” Coach’s voice echo’s from the room.

Quickly I whisper into the radio “Karate Kid to all units, target coming. Will soon act. Clear…”

“Thanks, Coach. I will, count on it!” replies Zack much closer to me. I hear footsteps then sure enough, Zack steps into my sight. I hear the door lock behind him. He’s the last to leave. Coach is going out the back.

“Alright Harley, this is it!” and with that last thought I get up from my hiding spot and face Zack’s retreating form. “ZACK!”

“Wha?” Stopping, Zack look’s over his shoulder with confusion clear on his face. His eyes widen once they focus on me. “Collins? What the fuck are you doing here? Your boy already left.”

“I’m not here for Ryan.” I say as I step down to the gym floor. “I’m here for you.”

Zack’s brows furrow in further confusion. “Huh, me?...what do ya want?”

Getting right to the point, I reply seriously “You’re in danger, I need to get you out of here right now.”

If possible, he looks even more confused. “What the hell are you talking about, Collins?”

“We don’t have time.” I say as I start walking over to him. “You just have to trust me Zack, I’m serious. We need to leave now!”

Zack takes a step back, sizing me up. He doesn’t know if he should believe me. Frowning, he makes up his mind. “You’re full of shit, Harley. I’m outta here. Later.”

“Oh no you don’t!” I run up to him and grab his wrist.

“Harley! What the hell!” He cries out as I force him to run with me towards the hallway.

“Just shut up and move! We need to get out of here before he shows up!” I yell back as I push us through the gym double doors.

“Who’s he?!” Zack asks but I ignore it as we start down the dark hallway.

Suddenly I’m jerked back. I look to Zack as he forcefully stops us. “Harley, stop!”

I open my mouth to answer but I notice his eyes travel downward to the radio clipped to my pants. His free hand darts out to grab it. I strike out to stop him but he swipes it off of me just as I graze his hand.

“Ow!” I exclaim as the ear piece is ripped from my ear. Zack lets it dangle to the floor as he holds the radio, looking at me with a pissed off expression.

“A radio?...What the fuck is going on Harley? Tell me!” Zack says as he clutches the walkie-talkie.

“Give it back, I need it!” I say as I try to grab for it with my free hand. Zack just pulls his arm out of my reach and glares down at me. I try tugging on him to keep moving instead but he resists. Seeing no other choice, I answer. “Someone is trying to kill you. He’s killed others and you’re next. I’m trying to save your ass so let’s move before he shows up!”

I tug again but Zack won’t budge. “Why? Who is this guy and why does he want me dead?!”

“Ugh! It’s too complicated. We don’t have time for me to explain. C’mon! MOVE!” I yell back at him, getting seriously angry at this point. I give a harder tug and his stance loosens. “Finally!” I turn back around and instantly freeze. I didn’t make Zack ease up, not even close. What did was the shadowy outline of a demonic figure that just rounded the corner at the end of the hall.

“Oh shit.” escapes from my lips as I grip Zack’s wrist tighter.

“Not the most formal of welcomes but it will do.” says the dark form, fangs flashing.

“Harley, what the fuck is that?” Whispers Zack. Despite his shock, he’s more composed then Phil had been, most likely trying to put up a brave front.

“The one who’s supposed to kill you.” I reply simply but with edge. I’m glaring at Slaiden, meeting his gleaming golden eyes.

“Fuck! That thing?!” Zack exclaims. I can hear the fear beginning to show in his voice.

“Correct you foul mouthed human. Now let us get this over with. I have an appointment to get to.” Slaiden replies smoothly as he starts stalking towards us, his right clawed hand raised in a threatening manner.

“Fuck that, no way freak. Take this!” Zack says with confidence as he launches the walkie-talkie full force at Slaiden’s head.

“You did not just do that!” I yell in disbelief at Zack as I watch with wide eyes as the radio sails across the hall with perfect aim.

It comes within inches of Slaiden’s face before his hand lashes out to catch it. He looks at us with a raised eyebrow, clearly amused by Zack pathetic effort to stop him. “You really think you can stop me, boy?” he says before squeezing onto the radio. Cracking sounds echo through the hall as his claws stab into the plastic. He releases his hold to let it crumble and fall to the floor in pieces. “Think again.”

“You idiot!” I yank away from Zack and glare at him over my shoulder. I dig into my pocket for my cell. “Thank God I still have my cell…shit no bars! I hate this school, damn it!”

“Holy Shit!” Zack exclaims, completely oblivious to my insult.

“I am far from holy human, quite the opposite actually.” Slaiden replies with a deadly smirk. The amusement in his eyes is hard to miss.

Ignoring the demon’s comment, I make my grip on Zack firm. “Get ready to run. Fast.”

“When are you going to learn that speed is never on your side, little girl?” Slaiden mocks as he gets within twenty feet of us.

“I’m an optimist.” I respond coldly.

“Even after all that has happened? Your spirit is proving itself despite all the damage you have taken.” Slaiden remarks as his eyes lock onto mine.

“Damaged but not broken.” I retort. I’ve had enough chit-chat, it’s time to get out of here. “Time to go Zack.”

“Not quite, unless you want the detective and woman entering the building to meet their maker early.” Slaiden states as he gestures over his shoulder.

“Crap they came in from a side entrance. Slaiden in the middle isn’t good.” I tense as I think of what to do. I can make a run for it. Slaiden will most likely follow. He wants Zack , not Gavin and Trisha. He’s playing the same old card and I’m seriously sick of it. We are all prepared for the worst so I’m free of the guilt chains this time. Hardening my gaze, I challenge back. “I’ll take my chances.”

And on that note, we turn and run.

And as expected, we don’t make it far.

Slaiden appears in a blur in front of us, wings outstretched to emphasize the barrier. He arches an eyebrow in question but instead of humoring him, Zack and I spin around once more. A growl can be heard from the demon behind us as we get closer to the corner. Once more Slaiden blocks us despite gaining a bit more ground. Slaiden’s face s is blank of expression as he wills us to stop with his eyes. I keep moving but Slaiden’s dark eyes work on Zack because he immediately stops, jerking me back in the process. I grunt as I’m forced into his chest, my grip loosening.

“Is that your only move? Not very effective.” Slaiden remarks as he extends his wings. He looks a lot more intimidating being only ten feet in front of us.

“No but necessary.” I shoot back, unfazed.

Slaiden’s eyes flash in puzzlement briefly before hardening. “Necessary? My dear, unless you can walk through walls then your running is anything but necessary.”

“Not these walls, only the moveable one.” I say confidently as I let go of Zack completely and charge at Slaiden head on.

Something flashes in Slaiden’s eyes as I come at him. I can’t place it but his tensing stance tells me he’s accepted my challenge which is exactly what I want him to do. Lowering my head, I use a more unorthodox approach. I turn my right shoulder and ram into him with all my force. Knowingly, he doesn’t even budge an inch. He instinctively wraps his arms around me to trap me. I let him, needing the closeness. I use it to hook my right leg with his and attempt to trip him. Despite my lack of momentum, Slaiden is forced to shift his weight to secure me. I struggle harder as he changes up his grip around me. He growls lowly, threatening me but I still keep the force on our hooked legs. I twist harder but Slaiden reverses my own move on me by picking up his leg which forces me to lean forward into him. He then twists and throws me down to the ground faster than I can comprehend.

I groan as my back makes contact with the hard floor. I expect to be trapped by Slaiden’s foot but am surprised when he crouches down next to me. I look up at him then to Zack who had stupidly decided to watch and not run for his freaking life like he should have. I had tried to by him time and he didn’t seize it. Slaiden cups my chin to force me to look at him.

“Your attempt is laughable, the boy is too dense to see a distraction when is plays out in front of him.” Slaiden states with a smirk as he looks at me then to Zack.

Zack looks purely dumbfounded, I can only assume that he thinks I’m crazy and is too confused of what to do after seeing me stupidly take on a demon. I look back up at Slaiden and act fast. I raise my upper body the best I can and snake my left arm around Slaiden’s neck. Slaiden turns his head to meet me as I latch onto his dark hair and yank.

“Ah!” He yelps in pain and instinctively pulls away. I refuse to let go though so Slaiden turns away from me to the left. He is forced to let me go so I do the same and roll away from him as well.

I quickly get up and run to Zack. He blinks a few times in shock but recovers as soon as I grab onto him again. He doesn’t put up a fight this time as we start to run once more. Only Slaiden pops up in our path a few feet away, fire dancing in his eyes. He’s annoyed now but I can tell he’s enjoying the challenge. I push Zack around and once more head to the ever waiting corner. I prepare for Slaiden to block us again but instead find myself almost running into Gavin and Trisha.

“Ahh!” I yelp in surprise as Zack and I skid to halt just inches in front of their drawn guns.

We all lock eyes in shock for a moment but snap out of it quickly once we remember the pending danger. I harden my gaze at Gavin and Trisha, no words are needed at this point. I jerk Zack and instead of going where my allies had come from, we head up the stairs to the second floor. “Good luck.” are my only thoughts as we thunder up the stairway.


~`~`~`~`~` ( Author Notes ) `~`~`~`~`~

Sorry for the long wait!!! Midterms kind of snuck up on me so the last 2 weeks have had me hitting the books hard! Now that they’ve passed I was able to finish up this chapter for you all. It’s been a month in the making but I got it done, although I had to cut it a bit shorter since I’ve hit a little writer’s block. No worries though, it will pass. I just need to figure out how Zack will die and what I want Gavin and Trisha to do now that they are faced with Slaiden.

I’ll do my best to get chapter 38 out in two weeks if possible. Thanks for being patient and I hope this makes up for the long wait!

Please Review! :D