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It had been three years. Three years since the Watchdog civil war. Three years since Cornea's defeat.Three years since the disbandment order against Haterʼs army on endangerment grounds.The Galactic Council may have been able to shut down the Federation. However, the fighting spirit and friendship between itʼs members remained. Many Watchdogs stayed on the Skullship.Their excuse was, "Itʼs my home. Iʼm not leaving it." The Council reluctantly agreed. It was obvious that they had intended to seize the 'propertyʼ as they now called it.At the current point in time, the Watchdog population had risen. They were no longer banned from being an army in the Councilʼs eye. Ex-Lieutenant Nerve had jumped at the chance, and put in a formal request. He assured the Council that no Watchdogs would prove to be traitors. After what happened during the war, he would make sure of that. Astonishingly..."Itʼs been approved Sir!"
"Excellent! I knew I could count on you, Nerve!"
"Thank you, Lord Hater! Now we can finally get back into the swing of things!"
"I know. But there is a slight problem..."
"Yes, Sir?"
"Who will lead the army now? Peepers is gone, Eyela moved to Suburbon 7, Iris and Retina are travelling and Cornea is in prison."
"Sir, I may be able to take the helm. I was Peepersʼ Lieutenant after all..."
"Yes. You were." After giving it some thought, Hater made up his mind. "Very well. You can take over."
Nerve nodded.
"But remember, Iʼm afraid youʼll have nobody to help you."
The new Commander gazed at the skeleton in shock, wondering what he meant. Then he remembered that the Lord was dying. Hater lay flat on his back in a sickbay bed, surrounded by machinery that kept him alive. Apparently Dominator, Haterʼs wife, had been taken by the same illness.
Their only child of 14 years, a daughter by the name of Elise, had been taken in by Wander and Sylvia. She was being raised for the last few years of her teens alongside the couplesʼ son Sylvester.
"I am nearing the end, Nerve. And I anxiously await the time at which I can join my wife and best friend once more..."
"Sir. You canʼt leave. Not now at least. Your daughter..."
"Is in the right hands. I am fully confident in their capability as parents. I am also fully confident in your capability as this Armyʼs new leader Nerve."
Nerve could feel his tears pushing against his eyelid, begging to show themselves. He swiftly denied their request. He nodded slowly, before standing from his post by the ailing Lordʼs side.Making his way to the recently built memorial room, he gazed along the rows of tombstoneʼs. This room was to celebrate the lives of those lost in the war. One in particular caught his eye. He made his way toward it. It was Commander Peepersʼ memorial. The replica of the late officer stood in a fighting stance, blaster at the ready in his right hand. Nerve sighed. "Peepers, if I can even be half the leader you were, Iʼll be proud."
———
"Iris! You wonʼt believe the message I just got!" "Yeah? What is it? And for the love of Grop bro, stop shouting."
"Itʼs from Nerve! The Council approved the plans to reform the army!"
"Thatʼs amazing! And because Iʼm so happy, Iʼll ignore that you were shouting. Youʼre literally right in front of me for Gropʼs sake..."
Retina suddenly felt very guilty, "Sorry sis."
"Itʼs okay Retina. Just donʼt do it again." Her brother nodded. "So. The army is back in action. Thatʼs amazing news. Whoʼs gonna lead it? Hater?"
"Due to his disease being fatal, Lord Hater wonʼt be taking the lead this time. Nerve is taking over."
"Wow. I donʼt blame Hater for trusting Nerve with the army. He was Daddyʼs Lieutenant."
"Yeah. Dad didnʼt just choose any Watchdog to do that job. He had a habit of making the right choices in regards to the army."
"I miss him, Retina."
The male Watchdogʼs gaze darkened slightly, clouding with emotion. "I miss him too, sis."
———
Two years ago, she had moved to Surburbon 7. Her aim was to live a relatively normal life. Of course, her status as a widow had attracted much attention, especially as her husband had been Commander Peepers. She often visited her old home on the Skullship to escape from the public eye. And obviously, her friends and children visited her.Sheʼd learnt about the armyʼs re-establishment from the Skullshipʼs Head of Security, Andy.
"Andy, thatʼs amazing news!"
"I know. But thereʼs something I think you ought to know."
Eyela was curious. "Oh? What is that?"
"Nerve is the Commander this time around. I hope thatʼs okay."
"Of course!" There was a genuine tone in her voice that told Andy she was perfectly happy. But it was slightly laced with sadness. "Andy..." He glanced at the female. "Whatʼs happening with Lord Hater? Is he okay?" Andy decided it would be best if he told her, "Hater is on the verge of death. We donʼt know how much longer he has left."
"I see."
"Eyela, I realise this is a lot to ask, but could you come back to the ship? Iʼm sure everyone would be glad to see you again."
"Of course. Iʼd be happy to return."
"Thank you."
———
They arrived to a cacophony of chaos and panic. It became obvious to Eyela that the sudden change in leadership had taken its toll on the staff.She became shocked when she heard Jim yell her name. "Eyela!"
"Jim. How have you been?"
"Iʼm fine thanks. Itʼs been a nightmare!"
"How?"
"Hater is taking his last breaths as we speak..."
"What?! Take me to him!"
Jim was happy to oblige. "Yes, ma'am! Itʼs great to have you back."They rushed into Haterʼs room. Apparently, the doctors had decided it was best for him to be comfortable during his last moments. By his side were his daughter, Wander, Sylvia, Sylvester and Nerve."Eyela. Iʼm glad to have seen you before my time..." The skeletonʼs voice had become raspy. He no longer had a booming voice that expressed authority. Captain Tim had curled up at his side, providing extra comfort. The arachnomorph whimpered slightly. Tim knew what was coming. Hater curled his arm around his pet using the last of his strength.
"Lord Hater. Itʼs good to see you again."
"Itʼs good to see you too." His voice was raspier than usual. "But, soon Iʼll see Dom and Peepers again. And thatʼs all that matters to me now." "Youʼre right Sir. You deserve your peace. Say hi to them for us all..."
"Iʼd never fail in that task."Just then, Iris and Retina came running in.
"Iris! Retina!"
"Mum!" The siblings ran over to their mother and the three shared an embrace.
A doctor cut in. "Sorry to break up the reunion, but itʼs almost time."
"Go say goodbye to him. You wonʼt h%ve another chance."
"Okay Mum." Iris acted cool and collected, but her sibling recognised her panic that was underneath.Hater spoke to each and every one of them. "Elise. Your mother would be happy to see you in the right hands. Wander, Sylvia, Iʼm glad I accepted your friendship. And Sylvester should be proud to be your son."
They barely caught the young boys reply, "I am."
"Nerve, serve the army well as Peepers did. I know you can do it. Eyela, Iris and Retina, rest well. And if you can, stay here." His voice became weaker. "Goodbye. Iʼll miss each and every one of you. I trust that you all will complete wonderful lives. I know I had that kind of life. Goodbye."They all heard the monitor flatline...
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
"Lieutenants! Report to the bridge! I need your input on something!""Yes Sir!" Said First Lieutenant Eyela, quickly turning to her Second Lieutenants, Iris and Retina, who just so happened to be her children. "Come on. We better go."Her son and daughter nodded before following her to the bridge. They were running at their top speed, and reached the desired point within minutes. "Sir? What did you want our input on?""A very sensitive topic. Especially for you three." He paused in nervousness. "It's Cornea." He admitted with a sigh. "He's come straight from prison. And it's not revenge he seeks." Again, he paused. "It's forgiveness."As the senior officer predicted, the three Watchdogs before him looked surprised. Then Retina gained a look of disgust. "No way!"His sister immediately reproved his outburst. "Retina. Traitor or not, he's still our brother.""I know Iris. But he's the one responsible for hundreds of deaths. Including Dad. No way can I forgive him for that.""Retina. He's coming home." It took Eyela a while to realise that the last voice was hers. "But Mum...""No buts. Give your brother a chance." She sighed. "28 years and I'm still mothering you three and settling fights... What would your dad say?"Retina sighed, voice suddenly heaving with emotion. "He'd tell us to get along.""Exactly. And we're not going to disappoint him now, right?"Nerve stepped in. "Your mother is right. Give him a chance to redeem himself.""Okay." Agreed a reluctant Retina, still unsure. ———When Cornea arrived, he received hard, cold stares from some of the Watchdogs who recognised him. He sighed regretfully. Why did he have to change sides? None of this would have happened. Too bad he couldn't change anything. But there wasn't a day that went by where he wished he could. He was greeted by Nerve and his family. He was surprised at how similar Nerve looked to his father in the Commander's helmet. It was a sign, he thought, that Peeper's metaphorical spirit still lived within these walls, fuelling the determination of the soldiers and guiding Nerve throughout his leadership.Cornea was snapped out of his thoughts when he heard his mother speak. "How have you been keeping these past few years?"He looked thoughtful, then replied, "In prison, I guess." He sighed. "I'm sorry about everything I did. I hope you can forgive me eventually."Eyela replied evenly. "I can. But I can't speak for the others." Cornea looked downcast, but his sister cheered him up straight away. "You know something? Hater, Dominator and Dad were villains longer than you were. If people can accept them, they can accept you.""Yeah, but if there is a some divine being out there, He didn't forgive them. Don't mean to remind you, but all three are gone. And one of those is my fault.""Well, then maybe that divine being had a better plan for them. I know Hater achieved his purpose. He said so himself. And Dad and Dominator did all that they could within their power."If Retina was honest, he was glad that his brother had returned. He supposed it brought some normality back into their lives. Even so, he was hesitant about speaking to his eldest sibling. "Hey. I forgive you."Cornea looked shocked. As if he had expected Retina to refuse giving him forgiveness and storm off. "Thanks bro." Retina then rushed forward toward his brother. It surprised everyone when they saw that Retina was hugging the former villain. They continued to look on as Cornea returned the gesture, the two brothers sharing their first hug in years. It was then that Cornea realised. It didn't matter how long it took for the rest of the army to forgive him. All that mattered was that he had been reunited with his family. And for now... that was enough.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
7 years. It had, at this point, been 7 years to the date of Peepers' death. Every anniversary of said Commander's demise, the army gathered in groups of fifty or so by his memorial to remember. It was slow going, but efficient. The particular group currently stood in respectful silence contained Nerve, Eyela, Cornea, Iris, Retina, Andy and Jim. Wander, Sylvia, Sylvester and Elise had been in the previous group. Some case or a security issue must have been weighing heavily on Andy's mind, because right after they left the memorial floor, he yelled, "I've got it!"
Everyone jumped, watching him as he sped towards the security office. Eyela and Nerve had glanced at each other in puzzlement. The entire group ran after him, curious as to what had caused such a speedy getaway. When they arrived at the office, it became apparent that not everyone could fit in the room. So after several glares from Nerve and Eyela, all of the Watchdogs who weren't in the Eyesore family left, looking rather anxious. "What is this about Andy?" Asked the apprehensive Nerve.
"I know what happened... that day."
"Andy, we all know what happened."
"No. What really happened. The full story..."They all gathered round as Andy began to recount that dreaded days events...———It had been several months since the mole incident. Commander Peepers made his way to the interrogation room, about to start talking to Steven. "Good work Steven. We've had everyone fooled. They have no idea what's really been going on behind the scenes."
"You think they'll fall for it?"
"Positive. They'll think I'm dead. I need to disappear for a while. Until the right time comes. Don't forget that the Doctors are in on this. They'll fabricate a post mortem. The only thing the 'assassins' shoot down will be a dummy. After the initial shot, I'll take its place for authenticity. Then when the medical workers cart me off, I'll make my getaway."
"Questions though Sir. One, who else knows? And two, why are you doing this?"
"Nerve knows. And I'm doing this because of someone from my past. Someone out for vengeance. I'm leaving everyone so they can all be safe. And I'm not referring to Cornea. Someone far more dangerous."
"Who?"
"Someone called... Hemlock."———They all stared at Andy in shock.
Nerve started clapping. "Thank grop. I thought I'd have to keep this up forever."
The expression that Eyela held was something no one could recognise. Shock? Relief? Anger? Happiness? "You mean to tell me..." Apparently it had been anger. She began to advance on Nerve. "that my husband has been alive all this time, and no one told me?!"Nerve, as the only one who knew, took up the dreaded task of explanation. "Yes. I'm sorry Eyela. But the Commander was trying to protect you. All of you..." he motioned toward everyone in the room. "If Hemlock thought that Peepers was dead, they wouldn't be out for revenge. And you'd be safe. You didn't know so everyone could make it look real. So Hemlock would believe it. So they wouldn't go after his family, crew and friends."
"I'd like to add something..." Cornea said sheepishly. Everyone, even Nerve, turned in shock. "My change in allegiance was part of the plan too. I knew about all this."
Nerve was about to say something, but Cornea interrupted. "You didn't find it odd that I said that his 'assassination' was my idea? Even as a," he made quotation marks with his fingers, "'villain' I always kept my word. I would have thought that you would realise sooner, being the main confidante and all."
"I don't believe I didn't realise."
"Dad didn't tell anyone my betrayal was part of the plan for obvious reasons. The rest of the plan would have fallen apart."
"I have several questions. First off, did the Council know? Second, where is Dad now? And three, who the Grop is Hemlock?!" Asked Retina. They just barely heard Eyela whisper, "Language."It was Nerve who answered. "No. The Council knew nothing. And we don't know where he went, or who Hemlock is. He never told us."
They all looked downcast. Iris broke the silence. "Hang on. Dad left me something strange in his 'will'. It was a storage disk."
Retina spoke. "I remember that. Didn't it have a password that you couldn't crack?"
"I believe I can now."———Iris made a dash for the computer. Thankfully, she still had the storage disk inserted. The password tab opened up. The hint read: 'An old enemy.'Iris voiced what was on everyone's mind. "Hemlock. The password is Hemlock." She typed in the word. A whoop was given by all when the password gave access. A minefield of files emerged. They all groaned. Andy voiced his opinion. "Typical Peepers. Some are bound to be empty."
"How do you know?" Asked Eyela.
"I knew... I mean... know him better than you think. He wouldn't make it easy. Maybe if this Hemlock found out about this disk, they would find out about what really happened, and they'd go after Peepers while we'd be left in the dark."
"I see." Said Iris, still at the computer. "I'll crack it. Just get me three gallons of coffee."
Her mother stepped in. "Oh no you don't, Iris. I know you want to find your father but for the love of Grop, don't pull an all nighter. It's just what he would do. It'll still be here when we get back."Iris caved in eventually, taking the storage disk with her for safekeeping. Eyela couldn't believe it. After all this time... Commander Peepers was alive and well...
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
It had been a long and hard road to this point. The army had recently been told that their previous commander, Peepers, was still alive. Many questions so far, had been asked and answered. All but one. Where was he now? Peepers had left his daughter a storage disk, which contained a maze of both empty and real files. After some digging, Iris finally managed to find the right file. Her shout of, “Mum! I found it!” echoed throughout the ship. The watchdog in question ran toward the computer room, anxious to find the next piece of the puzzle. When she arrived, Iris was shifting in excitement. Rightly so. Until recently, everyone thought that Commander Peepers was dead. “Mum, I found out which planet Dad is on.”“That’s great!”“Unfortunately, it’s in another galaxy. It’ll take about 6 months to get there.”“I’ll tell Nerve. We can set a course now.” The mother looked thoughtful. “Did you find out anything about Hemlock?”“Only her background. Nothing about current activity.”“Let’s hear it then.”“Princess Hemlock Nightshade is the elder twin sister of Queen Rosemary Nightshade of the Aconites.”“Elder? Then wouldn’t she be the Queen?”“That’s why she became evil. The council of their planet thought her unfit to rule, so Rosemary got the crown instead. Hemlock eventually got so jealous that she started a civil war, rallying her followers.” Iris hesitated before continuing. “Here’s where Dad fits into all this. The Watchdog Army was briefly involved in the conflict during this civil war due to our relationship with them. They’re currently protecting the remains of Vein. Remember when Dad left for a few months during the allegiance shift?” When her mother nodded, Iris continued. “That was to take the necessary troops into battle. When the war was won by the Queen’s forces, Dad was part of the jury that sentenced Hemlock to exile from their system.”“I had no idea.”“There’s more. Dad’s vote was the one that decided her fate.”Eyela winced, the pieces falling into place. Hemlock was after revenge...———The daily rally...“Well. What a story. Thanks for letting us know.” They both saluted. Nerve continued. “We’ll set a course for that planet straight away.”Nerve addressed the audience. “Watchdogs. We have located Peepers. We hope to get there in the next few months.” They gave a cheer. The current leader held up his hand for silence. “However, we may run into Hemlock on the way. This is what she looks like.” He put up a picture of her. She was plant shaped, more like a fern than anything. Four green pinnas sat either side of her frond shaped head, her species version of hair. She had a heart shaped face that held a harsh pair of eyes and mouth. She wore a purple robe with a gold hem. Her devilish smile sent shivers down everyone’s spines. “Be on the lookout for her or her twin sister Rosemary.”He put up a picture of the current Aconite Queen. She was identical to her sister, but her eyes and smile held the gentleness of a worthy ruler. “Despite their status as twins, I’m sure you’ll be able to tell them apart. Dismissed.”As the Watchdogs exited, the Skullship turned toward its next destination, 6 months away...
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
“We’re here?”
“Yes Sir. We’re approaching the planet as we speak.” Said the messenger.
“Assemble a team of eight as a search party. The sooner we find him, the sooner we can get out before Hemlock finds us.” Nerve ordered the Watchdog in question. After the messenger gave a salute and turned to assemble a team, Nerve turned toward the eye shaped windows. After months of waiting, they had finally reached the place where Peepers had hidden after he had faked his death to protect them all.Still, Nerve wondered if they had made a mistake by going to the planet to retrieve their previous commander. ———“Can you believe it, Syl?”
“Not entirely. It’s hard to believe. After all this time, he’s still alive.”
“What do you think his reaction will be?” Asked her nomadic husband.
She replied hesitantly. “Well, I’m sure Peepers will be happy to see us. But I’m not sure if he’ll approve. The reason he faked all this in the first place was so he could protect us from Hemlock.”
“I know Sylvia. But I can’t wait to see him.”Just then, their son and adoptive daughter, Sylvester and Elise came in. Elise’s birth parents, Hater and Dominator, had died several years ago due to a mysterious illness. She was the same species as her mother, but white in colour like her father. Sylvester, a Zbornak with orange fur spoke steadily. “Mum, Dad. We’re here. Do you wanna join the search party?” When they didn’t answer he continued in a singsong voice, something he had picked up from his father. “Come on, there’s only two spaces left, so when it’s gone it’s gone.”They nodded enthusiastically, following their son to the hanger. When they arrived, Nerve presided over the other six people: Eyela, Cornea, Iris, Retina, Andy and Jim. They swiftly joined their friends in the line. Nerve paced back and forth. “Remember, team. We’re getting Peepers back no matter what. Use force if necessary, but don’t harm him. And keep in mind, these may be our last few hours before Hemlock cracks the code, so be careful. You have your orders. Commence the mission.”They did so, marching down the Skullship’s tongue. All of them, including Wander, carried a small blaster just in case. The team leader, Eyela, led them surely, referring to a holographic map when required. Whenever they heard a rustle in the bushes, as the planet held a great deal of woodland, they would stop. It never was Peepers, but once or twice the sound was indicative of the right size. Eventually, they had almost lost hope. But Andy saw something the others did not. A small figure in the tree tops caught his attention. He tapped the downcast Eyela on the shoulder, who turned and gasped. Whispering harshly, the female said, “Who are you?”Dropping down from the trees was, not Peepers, as they had hoped, but...“Westley!” Wander cried with glee. The small Watchdog gave a big grin. Like Peepers, he faked his death. Only Wander and Sylvia had known until now. When they last saw him, he had been traveling across the universe. He must have stopped here if he had been living here. And if he had been living here...“Wander! Sylvia! Fancy meeting you here!” As he leapt up to embrace his friends, he also said, “I know why you’re here.”A collective “You do?” rang out. He nodded steadily. “Yeah. Peepers told me everything when he met me here. He’ll be so happy to see you.”
Eyela could barely contain her tears of joy. “You mean he’s really here?”
“Yep. He’s here. I have to say, I was really touched. Him faking his death just to protect everyone. He sure has grown a lot.”They all smiled knowingly. Westley continued, leading them through a trail. “We camped right through here.”
As they entered a clearing, Westley yelled out, “I’m back!”
“Thank grop. I was so worried about you. Hemlock is getting closer to finding out, I’m sure of it.”
“Speaking of people finding out, look who discovered the secret.”Peepers’ head poked round the corner in curiosity, and his eye widened when he saw who it was. “Is it really you?”
The search party beamed. Peepers fully came round the corner. He was still wearing his uniform, but his gloves and helmet were gone. “Now get home before Hemlock arrives!” He said, slightly panicked.Eyela gave her husband a puzzling look. She knew he would be hesitant about coming home, but she never expected this. “Peepers, calm down. Hemlock isn’t coming.” When he did so, she quickly hugged him, planting a brief kiss on his ‘cheek’. He took her by surprise when he took hold of her eyelids in his, the two sharing a kiss for the first time in years. They just barely caught the twin’s looks of disgust. Retina gave a joking gag. Wander and Sylvia gave each other loving looks of their own. Andy and Jim turned away uncomfortably whilst Westley just nodded in approval.
They broke apart slowly with satisfaction. Eyela muttered, “That was worth the wait.”
And Peepers replied, “Yeah. It was.” They continued to hug each other tightly until Wander seemingly came up from the floor between them, saying, “Okay lovebirds. Break it up. This was getting too sappy, even for me.”Everyone present chuckled. Peepers suddenly turned toward them, starting to explain. “I’m sorry I did that. I understand if you’re mad...”
He was interrupted by Eyela. “Mad? Why would we be mad? We’re just happy you’re okay. Thank you for protecting us for long enough so we could figure out who we’re up against.”
Andy continued. “Yeah. Hemlock seems to be really dangerous.”The next voice was one they didn’t recognise. But Peepers seemed to register it, pushing everyone else behind him. “Oh. I am little one. I am.”Hemlock slid from the bushes, continuing her monologue. “Oh Peepers. You should have known better than trying to trick me like that. I know the way you tick better than you realise. I’ve had years to study you and the Watchdog race. I knew you weren’t really dead, I just had no idea where you had hidden yourself. Hence why I followed your friends here.”
Peepers took her pause as his chance to reply, “You must have been really determined to get your revenge if you’ve waited this long.”As the two enemies continued to converse harshly, Eyela brought out her blaster and communicator. She aimed to do something and then radio the ship to pick them up. Hemlock paused when she saw a flash of red and felt a harsh pain in her lower leg. She looked down to find that someone had shot their blaster at her. When she turned her attention back to where her enemies had been though, they were gone. She cursed. They had obviously run back to their ship. And she couldn’t run after them in her condition. She called for her minions to catch them. Smaller than her, but just as dangerous, a group of 10 Aconites rushed off to apprehend the 8 Watchdogs, Nomad and Zbornak.Westley and Wander had taken up spaces on Sylvia’s back. Peepers had taken a large piece of bark from the camp, tying it to Sylvia’s tail, who didn’t mind in the slightest. Now, the Watchdogs sat on the repurposed tree bark as Sylvia pulled everyone away, reaching her top speed almost instantaneously. The Skullship was in sight when the Aconites sped toward them, weapons raised. They made a jump for those in the saddle, but were knocked back by Westley swinging a huge branch in their direction. They fell to the ground. Everyone gave a cheer as Sylvia slowed to a halt across the Skullship’s tongue, coming to a stop in the hanger. Nerve ran into the room, pushing up the lever for the hanger release in the process so that the mouth closed, denying access to the ship for the Aconites that were swarming the hull. The Watchdogs themselves surrounded the returning party. Some were crying, welcoming Peepers home. “Commander, you’re back!”
“We’ve missed you Sir!”
“You’re not gonna leave again are you?”They were halted by Peepers holding up a hand. It felt right to be among them. “Calm down. I’m not going to leave any time soon. Grop, it’s good to be back.” He said, pulling on a pair of gloves he had stored away in one of his pockets as the army laughed at his comment. Nerve handed him back the helmet, and Peepers slid it over his own head. As an afterthought, the Commander added, “So, did anything happen when I was gone?”Nerve hesitated before informing him about Lord Hater. As the Skullship sped back to it’s galaxy of origin, it was shook by Peepers’ yell of “WHAT?!!”
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Iris had come home late that night. She had her father to answer to. “And just where have you been young lady?” Peepers had asked. “Dad, I’m 32 years old. I can go where I want.”Peepers sighed. Of course she chooses to be difficult at this age. “Not with Hemlock around. She’s an opportunist. She’ll take the next opening, and use it to turn the tables in her favour.”“Dad. Calm down. I didn’t exit the ship. I’ve been on board all this time.”Peepers gave another sigh, in relief this time. “Thank grop.”Iris hesitated, wondering whether or not to tell him. She decided to tell him the truth. “Well, I met someone.”“Who?”She hesitated further. “Andy...”———“She’s what?!!” Came the voice of his extremely angry wife. Peepers knew she was a force to be reckoned with when she was mad. He tried to calm her down. “Eyela, calm down!”“Peepers! Our daughter has a boyfriend! I’m pretty sure calming down isn’t necessary.”“I know. I had the same reaction. But we need to let her spread her wings.”Eyela merely gave him a hard, cold stare. Peepers backed away slightly, before saying, “Eyela, I’m not happy with this either, but she’s old enough to make her own decisions.” He sighed. “You know, this situation feels very familiar...”Eyela smiled, knowing what he meant. Her parents hadn’t exactly approved of her relationship with Peepers initially, then they got to know him and actually liked him. They wouldn’t admit it, but Eyela could tell. If her parents accepted their relationship, why shouldn’t they accept Eyela’s relationship, especially as he was someone they already liked. “You’re right. I’m not happy about it, but it’s time she left the nest.”“Yeah. It is time. I trust Andy to take care of her.”“Me too honey. Me too...”———“You’re going out with Andy?” Cornea mirrored his sisters words. “Are you sure that’s a good idea?” Retina asked. “It’s okay bros. Mum and Dad say it’s okay.”“Yeah, they may say it’s okay. But they’re still going to be protective of you. You know that right?” “Of course I know, lil bro.”Cornea told his sister something important. “I know Dad probably already told you, but be careful. Hemlock has spies everywhere, and she’d know about this almost immediately. We don’t want you getting hurt...”———Meanwhile, on the rebel Aconite ship, Hemlock overheard the whole thing via a spy cam...“So. Peepers’ daughter is interested in someone. Who just happens to be their Head of Security. Well. I’ll just have to play matchmaker...”
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Nerve was conversing with the head doctor. “How bad are they?”
“It’s hard to tell Sir. All we know is that it’s the same thing that Dominator and Hater had.”
“That’s bad.”
“I know. We’ve made them as comfortable as possible.”
“Let me know if there’s any change. I need to check how the kids are doing.”Just then, a female voice drifted towards the two conversing Watchdogs. Iris. “We’re not kids anymore! We’re just 3 Watchdogs very worried about their parents.”Nerve chuckled in embarrassment before turning back to the doctor. “I’ll check if there’s anything on it.” As he exited the medbay, he thought to himself, ‘Don’t die on us, we need you.’———Some time later, the conversation was being continued. “Upon closer analysis, we discovered that the illness is not natural. Those sores on their bodies are caused by nanobots.” Nerve sat up at this revelation. “Then that means...”
The doctor nodded. “Yes. We suspect Hemlock has something to do with this. She’s the only person with a vendetta against us at this point in time. We’ll work around the clock Sir. Commander Peepers and Eyela will be back on their feet before you know it.”
“That’s all I ask. Thank you.”
The head doctor smiled, saying, “You’re welcome. And, Sir?”
“Yes?”
“Call me Stigma.”
“Nice to meet you.”Stigma saluted before continuing his work. Nerve gave a sigh before carrying on with his duties. This was going to be a long day. ———The Lieutenant was working on the reports that were usually reserved for Peepers when he had received the best news the army had had in a while. A knock on the door came right in the middle of his tedious task and, grateful for the distraction, he acknowledged it with an: “Enter.”In came Andy, who seemed to be in high spirits. Nerve gave him a questioning look before the head of security admitted the truth behind his smile. “Great news from the infirmary Sir! Commander Peepers and Eyela have woken up!”
Nerve barely held in a gasp. “That’s the best news I’ve heard all day. Any news on recovery?”
“Only that they’re still working on a cure. Not that they’ll need it. The Commander is getting stronger even without the help of the doctors.”
“And Eyela?” Asked the Lieutenant.
“She’s improving too Sir.”
“Good. At least we now know that it hasn’t affected them too badly.”
“I do have a question though Sir.” Andy piped up, interrupting his train of thought.
“Go ahead.” Nerve gave his permission.
“Why did it kill Hater and Dominator, but the Commander and Eyela are still alive? Don’t get me wrong, I’m glad it didn’t get that bad, but...”
“I certainly see your point Andy.” Nerve sighed. “Actually there is a reason. We have reason to believe that the illness is controlled by nanobots designed by Hemlock and her forces.”
“But then why wouldn’t the Commander be the one to die to this? Hemlock had no quarrel with Lord Hater or Dominator.”
“Maybe, but it was probably still in the testing stages back then. She was most likely seeing what it’s limits were.”
“That sounds reasonable.” Andy looked thoughtful. “Actually, now that you mention it, robotic parts were found during the post mortem, but no one thought anything of it.”
“That’s interesting. Well, I’ll visit the infirmary once I’ve finished this.”
“Okay. Good luck with that!” Andy quipped as he made his exit, gaining an affectionate eye roll from Nerve. ———“So Sir, how are you feeling?”
“A little tired. And slightly better than when this thing struck, but I’m fine.” As an afterthought, the bed bound officer added, “When can I get out of here?”
Eyela gave a teasing tut from beside her husband, “Not anytime soon. We both need to rest. You know that.”
“You’re correct that I am well aware of that, but...”
“Sir. No buts.”
Peepers groaned. “Fine. Just let me know if you need help with something.”
Nerve chuckled. “Sir, I was running this army for 9 years while you were gone. Pretty sure I can handle a smaller space of time.”
Eyela playfully rolled her eyes at the two bantering before yawning and falling asleep again. Stigma approached, telling Nerve that there had been enough excitement for the day, which was a statement that Peepers objected heavily to as the Lieutenant was forced out. Nerve merely shrugged and went on his way. Entering the Commander’s office once more, he pulled up the chair to the desk, sitting down to FINALLY finish those reports. One report he read stated the conditions of Vein, another the outcomes of both Rosemary and Hemlock’s regimes. Yet another still detailed the results of a recent experiment. He read it through thoroughly, as such subjects were of great interest to him. He sighed. He’d been around the Commander too much. The results of the experiment, written in bold black ink across the page, suggested the answer to their problem. Highly advanced robots could be destroyed if exposed to extreme high pitched sounds. Everything clicked into place. If high pitch noises could destroy robots, then why couldn’t they do that with the disease causing nanobots. Yelling “Eureka!” and jumping out the chair in triumph, the officer sped toward the lab, eager to test his theory. ———Three days later, and life had returned to normal. The cure had been found, and Peepers and Eyela were back on their feet. Though both were glad to have the chance to see the next dawn, Nerve feared he wouldn’t be so lucky. Following his discovery, he had neglected the paperwork, files and reports. Beads of sweat ran down his eye as Commander Peepers opened the door to his office, only to find the mountain of paperwork that awaited him. Saying that he was unimpressed was a huge understatement...
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Andy sighed. “It’s good to be home.”Westley came up beside him. “I’ll say.” The two were interrupted by Eyela, who had pushed past the mass of soldiers to see what all the fuss was about. “Come on you two. I know. We’ve all missed this planet. But we need to get started on the docking process. We wouldn’t want to crash, would we?”Sylvia joined the group that was forming. “It’s not the crash that gets these people worried, Eyela.” She paused, shuddering slightly. “It’s the tidal rage of fury that follows should everyone survive.” The Zbornak, the whole army could agree, was correct about being fearful of the pent up fury housed within their Commander. Peepers was practically a timebomb of rage that could explode at the slightest agitation. Oh, how they all feared his temper. The stress of being the only leader had quickly taken its toll, and now it was like Peepers was being eaten alive. He needed a vacation, and everyone knew it. They wouldn’t tell him that, though. Thankfully, this visit to their home planet of Vein would hopefully serve as just that. Finishing her reminiscing of the planet and it’s unfortunate destruction at the hands of Lord Dominator, Eyela was quick to bark orders. “Okay, let’s get this ship safely docked. Then we can check out the planet. Okay?”Everyone around her nodded, and all sped to their stations as the ship came into land. The engines gave a low whine as the Skullship touched the ground, spluttering slightly against the planets atmosphere. Eyela sighed. Either this ship needed an excessive amount of repairs, or they needed to invest in a new ship. It’s condition seemed to deteriorate all the time. Unfurling the familiar tongue was not as easy as it usually was. The mouth opened as usual, but the tongue’s mechanisms creaked and groaned as said tongue met the ground. When the metal finally stopped sounding like it would fall apart, the Commander entered the ship’s loading bay. The entire army stood to attention, to which he said, “As you were.” They all turned back to their posts as Peepers made his way towards Eyela. “Looks like we need to sort out the ship.” He explained as he made his way toward her. “It doesn’t seem stable.”“I know.” She looked slightly mournful. “It’s had a good run, but all good things must come to an end.”“This ship is practically all we’ve known these past few years.” He sighed. “Whatever we decide is going to be hard.”Eyela nodded regretfully. Maybe it was time to get a new ship, but that wasn’t what their focus should be on. She recalled the conversation she and Peepers had with their children the other day. ———“So, you guys excited to see all the sights Vein has to offer?”Retina was practically bouncing in his seat. “Yeah! We’ve never been!”“Hard to believe we’ve never seen it. This is our species’ home planet for Grop’s sake.” Iris said thoughtfully. Cornea, unlike his younger siblings, was quiet. Eyela was quick to notice this. “Cornea, are you okay?”“Yeah. It’s just,” He took a deep breath. “When Dominator destroyed Vein, did you two ever wonder you would see the planet again?”Peepers kneeled down to his son’s eye level, as all the siblings were sitting down on their parents’ bed. “Well, we did have concerns at first. But when the galaxy began to regrow, we didn’t have any doubts. We knew we’d see it again.” The father took a deep breath, “But that’s not why you’re worried.”Cornea was about to ask his father how he knew, but the question was being answered. “Cornea, I know you better than you realise. Me and your mother both do. We were the ones who raised you. Point is, you don’t have to worry about your status as a ‘war criminal’. The population all know the truth about what happened back then.” The younger Watchdog smiled slightly at his father’s explanation. What Peepers said next had everyone laughing. “And if anyone tries to persecute you, they’ll get on a first name basis with my blaster.”“Thanks Dad.”———About a quarter of the troops exited the ship whilst the remainder of the personnel, including Nerve, stayed on board. The majority of the crew headed to explore the recently rebuilt capital city of Sclera, with strict instructions to be home by 10 that night. By said curfew, the Watchdogs who had been in that group had collected souvenirs, visited their families and seen everything that had changed on the planet. Nothing much to speak of, but the changes weren’t exactly subtle...The Eyesore family was heading back to the ship when Retina bumped into a couple with a young Watchpup of about ten years. They looked... familiar somehow, but the three siblings couldn’t place where they’d seen them before. It was their father’s words that had them remembering. “Ciliary? Is that you?”“Peepers?” Said the female Watchdog. It was that confirmation of names that told the Eyesore siblings who these people were. Their Aunt Ciliary (their father’s younger sister) and their Uncle John. After suppressing the urge to eyepalm, they listened into the conversation. “So. How’s life on the Skullship?”“It’s fine. Ships falling apart though. How’re things going with you?”“Could be better. We just found out that Mum and Dad are still stuck on their refugee planet. It’s been years since the rebuild was completed, but not everyone has been rehoused.”At the look of concern Peepers gave her, Ciliary quickly added, “They’re perfectly safe. Don’t worry. They just can’t get home. We have offered them to live with us, but they have no transport off the planet.”The commander looked deep in thought till he said, “I could pick them up and drop them back here.”John piped up. “You could? That would be great.”“It would mean me leaving the Skullship for a while though. Our parents said something about being beyond our galaxy. I can always find out the planet in the Veinian archives.”They said goodbye to each other with regret and went their separate ways. Eyela gave her husband a teasing look. “So... you’re leaving again, are you?”Peepers gave his wife an equally teasing pout. “It’s not for long. I’ll only be gone for a few weeks.”“I’ll miss you. We all will.”“I’ll miss you guys too. And as much as I trust you all to stay out of trouble, I can’t help but feel Hemlock will cause said trouble...”
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
They say that silence is golden. But when you’re against someone, silence from the opposite side is suspicious. And considering Queen Rosemary’s enemy was her twin sister, whom she knew inside and out, the suspicion was far greater than usual.Rosemary, or just Rosa as she was known by her people, was a fair monarch, and an even fairer friend and colleague. Kind, but still harsh when needed, the Aconite Queen had proven to be the right choice to run the kingdom. It was the faith that her citizens had in her that caused her to make judgement calls based on their needs. And right this moment, they needed to do something against Hemlock. Said rebel had recently made a bold decision to attack one of Rosemary’s military bases on the planet Ziziks. The Queen knew there was no other option now, but to fight. This was war...———“Commander Peepers. Glad you could make it.” The Queen began.
The Watchdog replied slowly. Rosemary knew he wasn’t getting any younger, but he sounded so much older, even with his nasally voice still ringing clear. “I’m glad to be here. Nothing much has been happening on our front. How are things here?”
“Hemlock attacked one of our Ziziks bases the other day.” She paused before continuing, “I’ve decided to officially declare war. This can’t go on much longer.”
The Commander nodded before making his statement. “I agree this can’t continue, but are you sure war is a good idea?” Under his breath, he muttered, “I leave for a few months...”
This addition went unnoticed as Rosemary said her peace.
“I know it isn’t the best option, but it’s the only one we have. She won’t listen to reason. She never did.”“I assure you that you will have the Hater Federation’s full support. On two conditions...”
Rosemary was curious, “Yes, Commander?”
“You ensure that all innocent civilians are kept out of it. And that all combatants are not forced to fight.” His demands were spoken with the authority that would tell anyone who he was, and how deserving he was of his role. He had the aura of a true leader. He always had...
The Queen smiled, and with a way of speaking that was equal to that of Peepers’ authoritative tone, she replied, “But of course. You have my word.” They sealed the agreement with a handshake...———The announcement had rung out across the entire planet. They were at war. And their opponents had been listening intently from afar. “So. It’s serious now.”
“Yes, Hemlock.”
“That’s Madam Hemlock to you!” She yelled at one of her attendants, who made a scared and shaky salute.
“Yes, ma’am.”
The woman in question snarled. “Be gone from my sight.” The attendant did so. “So. They flinched first. But who will be the first to attack?” She chuckled evilly...
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
It all started when Peepers announced that they were officially at war with Hemlock. Before everyone knew it, Sylvia had handed the Commander a scroll. The ancient inscription read;“Deep in the darkest woods I hide.
I keep you safe from what lurks outside.
Even the strongest cannot resist my power.
I can strike anyone, anywhere, at any hour.
Only once you master me will you defeat your enemy.” Wander and Sylvia had told them nothing about the... It made any one of the people involved shudder just thinking about it, before remembering what really happened and the fact that they had nothing to be afraid of in the first place. The planet on which the spooky forest resided had, in fact, been destroyed by Dominator, in the event that had come to be known as “The Great Galactic Destruction”. Somehow, it had managed to return to its original state in a short period of time. The team sent consisted of Commander Peepers, who had appointed Nerve as temporary leader back on board the ship, Eyela, Cornea, Iris and Retina. A true family event. Wander and Sylvia saw them to the edge of the forest. “We really wish we could come with you...” Began Wander.
“But we know exactly what’s coming your way, and we don’t want to...” The zbornak struggled to find the right words.
“Don’t worry. We get it.” Peepers said, a slight playful smirk on his lids. The two ex-nomads smiled at the group in return, before turning toward the ship, Wander explaining, “We’ll be waiting for you when you get back.”The family nodded in understanding, before saluting to the duo and heading for the forest. They entered with relative ease, and within two minutes, their patriarch halted the rest of the family, saying, “Alright, we don’t know what’s waiting for us in there, so we need to stay together. I’ll hand out the communicators just in case someone wanders off, but we’ll all need to be careful.”They all nodded, and they were all off again, practically glued together. Within a half hour, Retina had started shaking slightly, and Iris seemed a little freaked as well. A scream was heard in the distance, causing both siblings to jump about half a mile into the tree line. Eyela, with the most calming voice her family had ever heard, soothed the two younger Watchdogs. “It’s okay, you two. That was just a wilhelm warbler. Totally harmless.” The bird in question gave another screech, and flew above the canopy, giving the family a perfect view. Iris and Retina gave deep sighs of relief, coming out from their hiding places from behind a tree and Cornea respectively. The remaining three family members gave a chuckle. Retina glanced around, eye falling on a particularly dark area of the forest. Squinting slightly to make out a shadow, he was rewarded by getting spooked by a pair of glowing white eyes and a set of beaming teeth. Terror renewed, this time he hid behind Peepers, who was less than happy, but still spoke in the most soothing voice he could manage. “Retina, what happened, champ?” Asked the Commander, using the same nickname he called both his sons during their childhood, in an attempt to make the youngest of his children feel more safe.
“There’s something. Someone. In there!” He pointed toward the place where he saw the face for emphasis. Everyone turned to the location in which Retina pointed, only to be greeted with nothing. Except Iris. “I see it too, bro.”The other three, on the other hand, saw nothing, Peepers sighing in exasperation and saying. “There’s nothing in there, you two. I can go and have a look, but you’ll have to stay put, ‘kay?”The two youngest siblings nodded, before watching their father, blaster at the ready, head into what they were certain was danger. He emerged without a single scratch. “No. Absolutely nothing. You two must be seeing things.” The two siblings got more worried as they saw the apparition creep up behind their father.
“Dad...”
“Behind you.”The patriarch turned to be greeted by empty space once more. He was starting to get slightly annoyed. “Look, if this forest is starting to get in your head, maybe you two should go back to the ship.”
“No, we can totally do this.” Said Retina. It had intended to sound sarcastic, yet the tone was utterly misjudged and the middle and youngest siblings continued the journey. They were still scared by every rustling leaf, creaking tree or snapping twig.Thus, progress was slow, but the Commander preferred some progress to no progress. Soon, night fell, and the family was forced to set up for the night. Since no one was too hungry, and they were attempting to conserve rations, no fire was lit and no food cooked by a roaring flame. The youngest two watchdogs were glad, that meant no scary campfire stories. Even so, their sleep was fitful and restless. All dreams they had ended in dead ends, and no way out. By the time they woke up again, it was well past midnight. Their parents had gone to get firewood, judging from the note they had left. They patiently waited for them to return. When they did so, they were calling out the names of all three of their children in concern. They seemed shaken to their very cores. It became clear to Iris and Retina that Peepers and Eyela had seen the strange apparitions as well. “Mum? Dad?” Asked Cornea groggily, oblivious to the sheer terror planted across his family’s faces. He was met by the shaky voice of his mother. “Kids, we want you to dismantle the camp. Your father and I will hold those... those things off for as long as we can.”
“But... I can’t see anything.” Replied the eldest.
“Just do it.”Suddenly, a high pitched “eep!” was heard from Cornea himself. He had seen them. As the younger Watchdogs pulled down the tents and packed up the equipment, something seemed to click in their fathers mind. “Kids. Eyela. Don’t give into your fear.”
“What?” Asked his wife, puzzled.
“Think carefully. When Iris and Retina saw these...” He struggled to find the right word “phantomimes, they were afraid. When we saw them, we had started to give into fear. And seeing us panic caused Cornea to be afraid as well.”
“Of course.”One by one, the family watched as the apparitions began to disappear.
Cornea approached one of them. “We’re not afraid of you.”
Iris was next. “Yeah, bring it on.”
“Give us your best shot.” Retina proclaimed. Soon enough, the phantoms were gone, leaving the family to head back to the ship. As they exited the woods, Retina spoke up. “You know, I think I know the answer to the scroll’s riddle.”They all looked at him, eager for an answer. “We experience it in our darkest moments, it keeps us safe. Even the most brave of us can feel it and mastery of it can help us stand up to our enemies. It’s fear. Those woods were a test to see just how much courage we have. Sure, Hemlock is a powerful enemy, and we may be afraid of what she’s capable of, but the whole point of courage is for standing up against people like her, even at our most vulnerable.”“Agreed. Well done Retina. We’ll make a Commander out of you yet.”
“What about me?” Asked Cornea in mock hurt. They laughed, boarding the Skullship’s tongue into the docking bay. As promised, Wander and Sylvia were waiting for them. “So?” Questioned the blue Zbornak.
“Well, let’s just say, we all learnt something in there. Hopefully, we can use our knowledge against our enemy.”
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
“Sir, you really should take some time off.” Began Nerve to his superior, concerned.
“No. I had enough time off when I was in hiding. I’ll rest when I’m dead.”
“You’ll end up dead if you keep doing this.”
“Keep doing what?” The Commander asked, scribbling furiously.
“Pulling all nighters.” Nerve deadpanned. Peepers, however; in typical Peepers fashion, waved him away.
“I’ll be fine. Someone has to keep this place running.”
“Sir, I did fine when you were gone.” Nerve reminded him. “For several years. Pretty sure I’ll manage for a few days. Besides, we don’t want you passing out like you did all those years ago, right?” Nerve recalled the events of the army’s founding years, when Hater was still alive and the then known Hater Empire was nearing it’s peak. Peepers had been pushing himself too hard back then. And he still was. The Commander’s thoughts drifted to the late skeletal Lord. He sighed in defeat, pushing back his chair and standing the best he could in his fatigue. Nerve was right. Hater certainly wouldn’t approve if he could see his best friend now. “Okay Nerve, you win. But only if we keep this as quiet as possible. The last thing I want is for Hemlock to find out.”
“Don’t worry Sir. I’ll make sure of it.”
“Then I’ll make the necessary arrangements for myself and the rest of the family. I never was one for travelling alone.”Little did they realise that the fly on the wall had been listening to the whole thing.Hemlock sat back in her seat, amused. “So, Peepers and his little family are going away.” She paused. “Well I intend to make it a break they will never forget.” She cackled, the light fading before the room was engulfed in darkness. “Darn. I need to get those fixed.” She said, looking up at the offending light sources. ———“Dad.”
“Yes?” Answered Peepers, who was piling an assortment of clothing into a large suitcase. “You can just tell me you know. You don’t have to worry.”
“I was wondering if Andy could come with us?”
“I don’t see why not.” He said, pushing down the lid of the suitcase. “He’s more or less part of the family now.”
“Thanks Dad.” Iris said, before turning around to leave. Her fathers voice stopped her from walking out the door.
“Uhmmm, Iris?” She spun to see him struggling to do up the zip. She sighed.
“Okay, open it up.” He did so. Iris barely resisted the urge to eyepalm. “Dad, I know this’ll be on the hold and all, but you don’t need three blasters.”
“I’m an army officer, what did you expect?”
“I’m an officer too, Dad. You don’t see me stockpiling weapons.”Peepers opened his mouth to argue, but then realised she was right. “Okay, you have a point. I’ll just take my handgun.”
“I doubt you’ll need it, but okay.”The suitcase closed easily after that. Iris left the room, happy that her father had listened to her. She went to her own room on the ship and went to bed. The night was filled with pleasant dreams. ———“Promise me you’ll let me know if there are any problems.”Nerve rolled his eye before replying. “I promise. It’ll be fine Peepers.”
Just as it looked like the Commander might change his mind, Nerve started pushing him out of the door. “Just spend time with your family and enjoy your holiday.”Nerve ignored the squeak of protest as he pushed his commanding officer into the waiting taxi, slamming the door shut. The Lieutenant looked up at Eyela, who shook her head at her husbands’ antics. Eyela made eye contact with the acting officer before waving goodbye at him and stepping into the vehicle with her family and Andy. The taxi sped off, the inhabitants of the Skullship waving at the retreating it before returning to their scheduled routine. Nerve continued to smile until the taxi had completely disappeared from view, sighing heavily when it did. He better get started with the mountain of paperwork so he could finish it before the Commander returned. Stepping into the office, he groaned upon seeing the piles upon piles. For someone so hardworking, he thought, Peepers sure left a lot of stuff. Cracking his knuckles, he sat down, grabbed a pen and drew in a stack of papers. This was going to be a long week. ———Peepers sighed when they reached the hotel room. He and Eyela would be sharing one. The three boys, Cornea, Retina and Andy would be in one as well, with Iris getting a lone room. The reason for this being that the two parents still didn’t quite trust Andy, even though he had been a trusted member of the Watchdog Army for several years, and was a veteran. “What’s up?” Asked his wife from the doorway, pulling off her coat.
Peepers sighed again, happy to be able to confide in someone. “Did I make the right choice leaving? What if something happens and I’m not there to help?”
Eyela gave her husband a sympathetic look, before sitting on the bed and patting the mattress for Peepers to join her. He did so without question, too stressed out to even consider arguing with his strong willed wife. “Everything will be fine, honey. It’s only a week. It’s not like we’ll be gone for a year.”
“Yeah, but it still worries me. What if Hemlock tries something?”This time, it was Eyela’s time to sigh. “You know, you’re so different from that young, dorky Watchdog who first asked me to go out with him 35 years ago. You’ve changed so much, I bet your teenage self wouldn’t recognise you. I almost didn’t when you visited me again when you first became Hater’s commander. I was so happy to see you, but it felt like I was talking to a stranger at first. But then you visited more, and I realised that you were still the Peepers who was the love of my life. And you still are. But I doubt anyone who hasn’t seen you in decades would think you were the same person.” She reeled, going a million miles an hour. She stopped when she realised. “Grop, what I’m trying to say, is that I miss the carefree Peepers that I married.”“So, lighten up, is what you’re saying.”
“Yeah, basically.”
Peepers smiled. “I’ll try.”
The woman he loved so dearly grinned back. “That’s all I ask.”They hugged for a while, before hearing a knock at their door. “Mum! Dad! Come on! Before it’s too late to go swimming.” Bellowed the voice of their younger son. They smiled playfully at each other before chorusing, “Be right there!” Once ready, they grabbed a couple of towels and the room key, problems away from the resort quickly forgotten. They jumped into the pool with their children, splashing each other with water and proving that you could have fun as a family even when you were all adults. Andy watched at the grinning faces the skimmed the pools surface. He smiled too. Carefully, he pulled out a small black box from under his towel. He opened it, revealing the piece of jewellery. If he was going to do this, there was no better time than on holiday with his girlfriend. And her protective brothers and parents, and whose father just happened to be his commanding officer. No big deal. ———Nerve groaned as he set the pen down. All of that time spent on around 20 pages. How did Peepers keep up with it all?He packed up his things, and was about to leave the office, when a frantic looking Private skidded to a halt in front of the door. He sighed. “Yes, soldier? What is it?”The Watchdog in front of him huffed and panted before answering, shuddering between words for breath. “The... engines... won’t... start...”
Nerve inwardly grimaced before setting his things down and following the Private to fix the problem. ———It had been almost an entire week since they had arrived. The family was currently sat down and were eating dinner. Andy wasn’t paying attention to the conversation. He still hadn’t asked Iris. Would he ever?Peepers took notice of the security officers distant look, placing a firm hand on his shoulder. When Andy looked up, he tilted his head back slightly, a clear signal that he wanted a word. They both stood up. Apologising to the others, Peepers pulled his subordinate turned friend to the side. “Okay, you’ve had a far off look in your eye for practically the whole week. What’s wrong?”
Andy took a deep breath. May well ask for a blessing now before announcing it suddenly. “I’ve brought a ring for Iris.”
Peepers gave a soft, “Oh” in realisation before asking, “Are you still gonna ask her?”
“Of course! She’s the love of my life! I wouldn’t miss a chance with her like that!”
“Then why are you still talking to me?” At that statement, Andy looked deep into the Commanders eye.
“What?”
“You heard me.”
“So, you’re actually giving me your blessing?”
Peepers nodded. “Of course.” Andy smiled. “Go get her soldier.” Peepers finished before letting Andy lead the way back to the table. “And that’s an order.”They grinned all the way back. This fact was picked up on by the others. “Andy? Dad? What’s going on?”
Andy grinned wider before starting to talk, “Iris, you’re the best girlfriend I could ever wish for...” He was about to continue until the ground shook, a resounding boom joining it. All the Watchdogs turned, shock evident in their eyes as they recognised the ship in the sky. “Hemlock.” Peepers growled, upset that perhaps the best moment of the past 10 years had been ruined. He turned to his family, quick to shout orders above the chaos around them. “We’ll split up. Cornea, Retina, you’re together.” His two sons nodded. “I’m with Eyela. Andy, you’ll be with Iris.”Andy was puzzled at first, then realised that his Commander had given him more than enough time to pop the question. “Me and Eyela will confront them head on. We did pack our blasters. Cornea and Retina, you’ll be on crowd control. Try to keep everyone safe. Andy, Iris, damage control. Investigate that bomb site. Diffuse any other bombs if you see them.” They all nodded, rushing to their assigned jobs. ———Meanwhile, back at the Skullship, Nerve had fallen asleep on a stack of papers, failing to notice the message that Hemlock had attacked. ———The couple ran toward the impact zone. It was a medium sized crater, about 2 meters deep and wide. Iris scoured the area, a glint of steel catching her eye. Another bomb, she presumed. She tapped her boyfriend on the shoulder and pointed. He pulled out an analyser, confirming that the time bomb was active. As they made their way to the bomb, diffusers in hand, Iris asked, “So, what did you want to say back there?” Andy paused before realising what she was asking.
“I’ll ask when I’ve finished this diffusion, ‘kay sweetie?” She nodded. After he finished, she urged him to tell her. He sighed. “Now probably isn’t the most ideal time, but okay. You’re the best girlfriend in the universe. You’re the love of my life.”
“So far so good...” She chuckled. He did so as well.
“I was wondering if you were willing to take our relationship to the next step.”She gasped, hands flying to where her mouth would’ve been if she was another species. “This isn’t what I think it is? Is it?”He continued regardless. “The next step being this...” He cleared his throat and got down on one knee, opening the box to reveal a gleaming sapphire ring. She gave a small sob of happiness. “Will you marry me, Iris?” She started to cry, flinging her arms around her boyfriend. No. Fiancé.
“Yes!” He laughed with her. “Yes I will take the next step with you!”They stayed that way for a while, oblivious to the chaos around them. ———The other couple on the battlefield were having a less enjoyable time. They fought back wave after wave of Aconite soldiers. They never split up though, not even for a second. A break for them soon emerged. They slumped against each other, backs together. They breathed heavily. But the struggle was by no means over. They heard a demonic voice just a few meters away. “Oh Peepers, you should have known better than to run from me. Again.”
“I wasn’t running from you.” He snorted, standing shakily. He pulled Eyela up with him. “It’s a family holiday. You know, for a break!” He emphasised the last word, hoping to get the point across. Instinctively, he stood between where he thought the voice came from and his wife, hoping to shield her. He knew it was wishful thinking, but still he tried. “Oh, a break, you say? That sounds nice. Too bad I don’t take stuff like that into account. Or anything, really.”Peepers eye palmed. Of course. But how did she find them? He had kept it as silent as possible. “Now that I think about it, how did you know where we were?”Hemlock shrugged. “Let’s just say... I bugged your office.”Peepers scowled. Of course. He thought that fly had looked a little unnatural. “It doesn’t matter now. Could we do this later, maybe?”
“Not really.” Hemlock retorted. “I’d rather fight you now.”
“Seriously? Not even during the final chapter...” he paused. “Of our lives?”The villain opened her mouth, but before she could say anything, she heard a female voice strongly come from next to her arch enemy. “Leave. Now.”Eyela was glaring at the villain. Hemlock had a shocked look on her face. Up until now, she hadn’t even given Peepers’ wife a second thought. She quickly brushed away this shock though, straightening to her most threatening. “Very well. I’m not that heartless, I’ll let you finish your break now. But you haven’t seen the last of me.” She recited the age old cliche, disappearing into the shadows. The couple looked at where she had been standing in puzzlement, wondering why she had left so suddenly. They cautiously made their way back to the resort. ———Nerve had barely been awake when he got a call from the hanger. He groggily accepted it, using his best awake voice. “Yes?”A random Watchdog replied. “Sir, the Commander and his family have returned.”
Nerve barely hid his sigh of relief. “Okay, tell them to wait for me. I want to welcome them back personally.”When he got there, he pulled his superior aside, who seemed troubled about something. “Thank grop you’re back.”
“Okay, what did you do?” Peepers asked, sighing.
“I fell asleep. A lot. And there may still be a problem with the engine I had no idea how to solve.” Peepers chuckled. Nerve continued. “How do you manage? I did fine when you were in hiding.”
Peepers paused slightly before answering his question. “There’s a huge difference between running an army and a federation. When I first went into hiding, you had Hater to help you with the army and to lead the federation as a whole. And when Hater died, Eyela was helping you. Because there was essentially no one to help you this time, you didn’t do well.”
“I think I get it. And the reason why you can do it by yourself is...?” He asked, curious.
“Thing is, I’m not doing it by myself.”
Nerve raised a non existent eyebrow. “I don’t just have Eyela and my kids. There’s also you. I wouldn’t be half as good at running the Federation if I didn’t have you with me.”
“Thanks, Peepers.”
“Anytime.”
“So, how did the holiday go.”
“Well, Andy proposed to Iris.” Nerve grinned at this. “She said yes, so they’re engaged now.”
“That’s great!”
“Yeah, too bad Hemlock attacked right in the middle of it.”
Nerve groaned. “Okay, tell me about it.”Peepers did so, the Skullship taking off from its resting place.