Ilustración: Hybrid-Kira (2021)

- (...)-

- (...)?-

- ... I'm afraid it's true. I heard that he remained completely still, watching as the Vortex carried the boy into the forest... it is a miracle that he did not got serious injuries... he could have ripped his head off if he had had the opportunity.-

- And how is he? I see that Tyler is relatively fine... But what happened to the Warrior? Didn't you see him return as soon as Darius chased the Vortex away? –

- Iker? I was not able to see him. Me and the others focused on getting Tyler to the hospital as soon as possible... I don't know much about poor McLaren ... he may not make it. Very few survive Dheera's attacks, that darn Vortex.

- Wait... Tyler is having fast heartbeats, he went up to 70 too fast, check the pressure.-

- Don't worry, I think he's just waking up ... -

The white light was blinding, I inhaled deeply, feeling as if I've been holding my breath for minutes. Two human silhouettes kept me company, one on each side, one of them gently placed a hand on my shoulder.

- Easy, you're safe. I need you to listen to me ... you are a little hurt and I don't want you to harm yourself anymore.-

H ... hurt?- I put a hand to my face, and the first thing I feel is an oxygen mask. I take it off immediately not knowing what had happened to me- What happened? Where am I? - I look around, but all I could see was too bright for my eyes, which felt swollen-

- You suffered an accident ... you were attacked by a Vortex. You're in the medical bay right now. Don't you remember what happened, Tyler?-

- ... what?- I tried to sit up, but the effort had been enough to get me back on the bed. My whole body ached, especially my head, which I had barely realized was bandaged- I-I don't remember anything... it can't be ... What happened? -

- You suffer from a slight amnesia Tyler ... take it easy, you got a hard blow on your head. Come, let me help you sit down.-

- The Medic, who was a middle-aged man with platinum blonde hair just like his beard, supports my back with one hand to help me sit up. I had a sharp pain in my spine, and every one of my muscles burned inside. I was very confused, and in pain, but I knew there was no use overworking my body for now, not while I didn't fully know my current state. The Medic's assistant offered me a glass of water, and after quenching the thirst that I hadn't felt until then, the Medic began to explain, taking a seat on the side of my bed.-

- Tell me Tyler ... What is the last thing you remember? -

- I remember ... I was accompanying the Warriors, we were at Zeingen watching Darius and Zenda fight ... I remember seeing a wounded hybrid, yes, she was outside the Colosseum ... nobody saw her for paying attention to the Zeingen, and I went to help her , and then ... Aghh ... - I put my hand to the back of my head, it hurt a lot every time I tried to concentrate-

- Easy, take your time ... -

- And then... - I feel my chest go numb, it was a bit difficult for me to breathe as I remember again the eyes of the Vortex, hidden in the forest, and ready to attack- ... the Vortex. I saw it. It was white and had the mark on its nose and... oh no... Iker, where is Iker? Doctor I need to know where he is! Is he alright?!-

- Calm down Tyler, who are you talking about? -

- Iker! A yellow McLaren P1, he was close to me when I saw the Vortex! Please tell me that he is fine, and that the Vortex did not attack him ... - My friend's description seems to create a reaction in the Medic who looked at me with concern. He remains silent for a moment, looking into my eyes- ... No ... no, it can't be ... -

- ... The hybrid you mention must be the Warrior who tried to defend you. He is... very badly hurt, but he was lucky. He is in intensive care right now.-

- Iker...- It was hard to believe, even more so because I couldn't remember anything about said attack. But at least he was alive, that calmed my biggest worries- What happened? Doc, I need to know, please... he is my best friend.-

- Tyler... boy, I need you to calm down and listen. You are not in the right condition to move, if you do, you will hurt yourself, and I am responsible for your health and safety ...-

- Iker is my hybrid guide, he is responsible for my safety, as much as I am responsible for him! I need to see him now.- Making a huge effort, I managed to get one of my legs off the bed, it was full of bruises and scratches, and it was difficult to move it without causing me pain - Nnhh ... you don't understand, this is important ... I'll go check on my friend even if you do not allow me.

- ... - The Medic lays a hand on the same leg that I had barely been able to move, thus preventing my progress - ... Please, I don't want you to force me to apply a sedative on you. I have strict orders not to let you leave this room ... please cooperate with me Tyler, that hybrid is in good hands, there is no need to intervene in his recovery.-

- Wait a moment ... "that hybrid" has a name, and you know it. You mentioned him a few moments ago... Why don't you call him by his name? What are you trying to hide from me?!-

- Stephen? Is everything ok? - The Medic's assistant knocks nervously on the door when she hears my screams.-

- Don't worry, everything is... - Stephen takes my arm firmly, and in a quick movement he manages to stick something to my neck, the feeling was already known to me, it was the same sedative that Adara had used on me when she brought me to Cilt -... Everything is fine now. I am sorry Tyler. You gave me no other option.-

- Agh! No! ... It's not fair... no... I-Iker.- My body feels heavy, my head miraculously stops hurting, and my eyelids close. Doctor Stephen's hands caught me before my body rocked forward out of inertia. My mouth has gone numb, it's a horrible feeling, like a coma in which you are fully conscious. With the body off but the mind on, and in a constant state of panic-

I am settled back into my bed, taking special care with my bandaged head, even though I no longer felt any pain. My body struggles to move, but it can't, and I was aware that trying would not accomplish anything. Now the only thing I could do was listen to the Medics, and pray that my conscious state was temporary.

- D... Doctor Stephen, what happened here? Did the boy faint?-

- No ... I sedated him.-

- Is that allowed? I mean... Won't the Leaders be mad at us if they find out? -

- They gave me permission to do it if necessary. Now keep quiet, the boy will remain conscious for a few more minutes while the second sedative takes effect.-

Here we go again.

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- Dad, are we there yet? -

- Just a little more, my tiny grasshopper. Why don't you look out the window and try to find the lab? Maybe you can see it before me.-

- ... I can't see anything. Dad, there are only trees here.-

- Well, then you may see a hybrid hidden among all those trees, I once heard that someone saw a large gray hybrid of unknown breed, maybe you can be the one to identify it! -

- A real hybrid!? -

- That's right, a real hybrid.-

- Like the ones in your lab? -

- Exactly, my son.-

- Woah! I can't wait for us to get there! I'll look for that hybrid while we get there, I'll tell you if I see it.-

- Sounds like a great idea to me, Tyler.-

The car window is cold, but that wouldn't stop me in my quest for the erratic hybrid. They must be close, something made me feel like they were following us. My dad is very good with hybrids, they must love him a lot. Maybe that gray hybrid was there to take care of us, like a guardian who is not seen by anyone.

- What is that? Dad, is that your lab? -

- Hhm? Oh yeah, that's it. It looks pretty from a distance, don't you think? -

- It's very, very big! It's even bigger than my school.-

- Hehe, I do think so. It's even cooler inside, and maybe ... just maybe, you can meet one of the hybrids I work with, it's a very special one.-

- Woah... I'm going to meet a hybrid. Do you think we can be friends? -

- Uhm ... it's possible.-

- Great!-

The place is really pretty, the grass around the building had some small yellow flowers. Some men in white coats like my dad's were waiting outside, I think they're waiting for us. The car comes to a complete stop, and Dad finally lets me unbuckle my seat belt. He goes down first, as always, and I wait for him to open the door for me.

- Alright, my little scientist, we have arrived.-

- Ohhh... dad... th-this place is huge... I-I feel like I could get lost here.-

- You have nothing to fear son. You know your daddy is here to take care of you, as long as you don't separate from me, nothing will happen to you.- his warm hand caresses my hair, making me feel calm - Here, give me your hand.-

His hands were always very big for me, but I knew perfectly how to do so that I could hold onto him without difficulty; he knew that I always clung to his pinkie with my whole hand, as my tiny fingers barely managed to feel secure holding only one of his fingers, and that was enough for me.

Dad and I started walking toward the lab, a great thrill building in my stomach at the idea of ​​meeting a hybrid for the first time.

... But a strange scream makes me turn to an area cleared of trees. A familiar voice was calling my name not far from here.

- Ty? ... Tyler! W-Where are you? -

- Iker! I'm here! Help me!-

And there in the clearing, was another me, next to the injured Corvette that kept telling me to run. I could see the scene from afar. Soon, icy blue eyes were shining from their hiding place among the trees. Stalking my still ignorant "other me".

- Tyler! -Iker's voice was heard closer, apparently he was about to discover the place where that Tyler was-

The young man then notices the Vortex stalking him, and gets paralyzed. The hybrid's eyes pierced into his gaze, making it difficult to breathe, causing all muscles to tense, and freeze in the place.

Iker finally makes an appearance. He first looks for Tyler with his eyes, but when he realizes what his friend was seeing at that moment... Iker remains static, not moving a muscle.

- I-Iker... help... please... - The murmurs, barely understandable from Tyler's mouth, tried to be as discreet as possible so as not to alert the Vortex-

But Iker did nothing.

- Ik ... W-What are you doing? ... Help me! -

Iker did not respond to the prayers of Tyler, who tried to cling to the ground with his hands, helpless, terrified, and deeply confused. Iker simply looked at the Vortex with a dead look, almost as if he had seen a ghost. He folds the only mirror of his, and begins to back up a few inches.

- No... not you ... you can't be here ... no ... -

- Iker, please wake up! -

Tyler's last screams propelled the Vortex, causing it to jump with the immense force of its rear wheels, rushing straight towards the horrified young man who began to run hopelessly in the direction of Iker. But the Vortex was much faster, hitting him hard on the back and knocking him face down. Once in that vulnerable position, the hybrid takes him by his shirt and begins to drag him into the forest. All while Tyler screamed in despair, and Iker just stared, shivering in his place, seeing his friend being led into the dark.

- No... No Iker! You have to do something! You have to save me!- I tried to get closer to the paralyzed McLaren as I watched the scene in horror, but I couldn't let go of my father's hand. He and his colleagues had not noticed what happened, as if I was the only one who saw it - Dad! Daddy please listen to me! We have to do something!-

It was useless, his colleagues had already allowed us to enter the laboratory, and I could not get out of his hand, inevitably dragging myself into the laboratory, while I saw Iker's silhouette holding his place, without any reaction. .

- IKER!-

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I've had my eyes open for longer than I have been aware of it.

My body already allowed me to move, though awkwardly.

What happened?

Am I still dreaming?

The pain in my head is timely to answer my question. No, I was no longer under the effects of the sedative. The joints in my hand feel stiff, like I haven't moved them in a long time. I inspected my face with the touch of my hand, everything seemed to be in place, although a few sutures were sticking out of a wound on my forehead, and a scrape on my chin was already beginning to heal. I touch the hair on the back of my head, just over the area that hurt, apparently the bandages had been removed, it's a relief.

I was in the same room, the lighting was dimmer and friendlier to my eyes, and I was no longer connected to any device, except for a serum that was being administered at that time, which was already half empty. There was an armchair next to my bed, and on it was a blanket and food scraps partially wrapped in a cloth bandana.

- ... Someone has been looking after me ... -

I searched the entire room for more signs of activity, and something unusual stood out among the furnishings of the place; a long, sturdy spear with Cilt Hunter emblems, propped up in one corner of the room, away from my bed, but close enough to the couch.

- ... A Hunter? ... they sent a Hunter to watch over me ... -

The feeling of anxiety moved and bit my stomach inside, loneliness forced me to think fast. I knew what I had to do, but I lacked the courage to do it. It was possible that the Hunter would return soon, I must take action now.

I had to do whatever it takes to see Iker.

I take a deep breath, and in the middle of the exhale I take the strength to get up. My legs ache, the change in position soon hit my head, and made me feel dizzy. Carefully, and without looking at the needle, I remove the serum from my arm so I can walk freely. I was dressed in a simple hospital gown, and the cold was soon beginning to creep up my feet. I took a few steps, although firm, they were painful. I had no time to waste.

I open my bedroom door slightly, just enough to realize that there was no one outside standing guard. Everything was silent, and still. Coming out the weather was much colder than inside the room, it was to be expected. The bright lights in the hallway in front of me force me to squint, as I walked at a faster pace than my aching legs would allow. Judging by the nomenclatures of the rooms, the rooms adapted for hybrids were still far away, Iker's room must have an "H" next to its number. I thought it would be necessary to open each room and take a look inside until I finally found the room where my friend was, but conveniently each room had a small panel that showed the basic info of the patient who resided there, that would be more than enough to find him .

I pass room after room, shuffling my feet in the process, and holding onto my left arm that had begun to ache from the constant movement of my walking. The physical pain would not stop me.

<< 48... 49... 50... 1-H... >>

The journey had been almost eternal, but at last I was in the area that mattered to me. I slow down my pace and pay attention to the information displayed on the panels, looking for the one that matches what I was looking for, when finally, after reaching room 13-H ...

Patient: Iker

Species: Hybrid

Breed: McLaren P1 

- Here you are buddy... -

I take the handle of the big door and try to open it, but nothing happens. It was possible that the interior could only be accessed by scanning a chip. This complicated everything, as I was sure that I did not have permission to enter his room... Or maybe I did. There was only one way to find out.

But something stopped me, there was the possibility that an unauthorized access like this sent an alert to the hospital security system... if there was such a thing here. I evaluate my possibilities, taking into mind that whatever happens, it doesn't matter if my chip worked or not, they will still find me out of my room at any moment, they will escort me back, and I will be prohibited from seeing Iker until I am fully recovered. There was no way I could change my actions, so now I had to accept the consequences, and at least try to see him for a moment.

I looked for a chip reader on the door, but this door didn't have one. The information panel to the side lit up red every time I tried to open the door manually, so it was possible that this also served as a chip reader. I approach my hand, trembling from the mediocre effort of raising my bruised arm... And surprisingly the panel emits a green light, showing my last name on its small surface; "Hopper."

A pleasant tingling runs through my body as I did not expect my plan to work, and I did not waste time opening the door, which I did not expect to be a sliding door. I closed it as soon as I was inside, and made sure to put the manual padlock on the lock, which I wasn't sure it would work being this an electronic mechanism, but maybe it could give me a few extra minutes.

The warmth of the room was accompanied by the unmistakable beeps of a heart rate monitor, and the pumping of a large artificial respirator that generated oxygen. I wasn't sure if I was ready to turn and see my friend, even after I had run away from my own room. I was afraid it was worse than I imagined.

For the first time, I regretted being right.

When I finally gathered the courage to detach my vision from the door and direct it into the room, the first thing I saw was a yellow lump, covered in a black blanket that revealed only the section of his head. What little I could see of his yellow skin was covered in blood, but this was not from the time of the attack, this blood was recent, it was the blood that kept coming out of his fresh and deep wounds, scattered throughout his visible part of his body. Iker put up a great fight, but it wasn't enough.

He was unconscious, with multiple cables attached to the inside of his wheel wells, which sent information to the vital signs monitor, which beeped slowly and constantly. Thick tubes coming out of the oxygen pump encircled his body, leading into his upper nostrils just above his skull, and inserted into both sides of his mouth, respectively. The slight movement of his sides was evidence of his artificial respiration, it is possible that the oxygen tubes in his mouth were inserted up to his windpipe.

The scene almost beat me, but I had to stay strong. I wanted to know the state Iker was in, and now I knew it.

- ... Iker... no.-

It was in vain to try to speak to someone unconscious, and who was fighting for his life right now. But my mind wanted to have the answers it needed... and to remember what had happened. But the only images that came to me were those that came from my dream, which did not match the reality in front of my eyes.

Iker couldn't have stayed still... he protected me. I was sure about that, since the same Madic who sedated me had mentioned that Iker "tried to protect me."

He tried.

But his injuries revealed that it had not been enough to save himself.

I stare helplessly at my friend. My mind was sure that at this moment I must feel something, be it remorse, grief, anguish... but I had no reaction, and that frustrated me. Forcing crying didn't help, clenching my fist didn't help either. It had simply been too much visual shock to react... enough for my body to block any emotional response.

Resigned, I sit on the floor in front of him, so that at least we can share our visual perspective. Just him, me, and my empty thoughts. The noise of the life support machines made the silence not thunderous, and gave some cover to my voice, which I was sure Iker would not be able to hear.

- ... What have they done to you, Iker? ... But why did I have to go on my own and expose myself like this? ... Now because of me you suffer like this... I am sorry ... - the skin around his left eye was almost intact. It was the same eye that bore his huge vertical scar. I gently run my hand over the edge of his scar, this being the first time I ever did, and it would possibly be the only time I would do so-... I'm sorry, buddy... you don't deserve this. You have already suffered too much to protect others ... I do not want you to suffer for me.-

My vision was exhausted, my body was shivering with cold and pain, and my mind struggled to remember something... anything.

It wouldn't be the first time I suffered from amnesia... but it really complicated my current situation. I remain silent, sitting on the floor in front of him, staring at the ground, and carefully resting my hand on his big cheek. Wishing with all my might that Iker would be able to tell me what happened with him... with both of us.

And then the monitor begins to emit a rapid, almost sudden pulse.

I removed my hand from him, not exactly sure what was happening. The increasing beeps alerted me, and I didn't know what to do. Iker moves slightly, as if he is trying to wake up from a nightmare. His moans are drowned out by the tube that he had inserted into his windpipe, and it is that final choking sensation that ends up waking him up. Iker opens his eyes wide, his pupils contracting in panic, turning around but not seeing anything specific. The abrupt movement moves the tubes that have been inserted so cautiously, making him move even more nervous.

- No Iker! Don't move like that, you're going to hurt yourself! -

Iker seems to react to my voice and tries to look for me with his eyes, but the stress has blinded him, he shakes violently, dragging the devices that he had connected with him. The tubes in his throat suffocate him, generating in him the reaction of vomiting them at any cost, but he would not achieve more than to hurt himself that way, I had to do something to ease him before something severe happened.

At the risk of being hurt again, I throw myself back to the ground in front of him, holding his nose and breathing tubes firmly, using what little strength I had to force Iker to calm down. At first Iker was confused as he felt pressure on his forehead, and he tried to growl in despair, although the only sound that came out of his throat was an obstructed guttural groan.

- It's me, Tyler, I'm your friend! I'm not going to hurt you... calm down... - Iker seems to listen at last, he stops the violent shaking, and little by little he stops only to avoid hurting me. - Yes, that's right... Iker, I need you to calm down. If you keep moving you are going to hurt yourself internally... - Iker opens his mouth wide, trying to pull more air into his lungs when he feels that it was not enough, or to beg me to remove the tubes - I-I can't take them off, I know It feels bad, I know, but you're not going to suffocate. Breathe easy... trust me. - His eyes water, but he seems to make an effort to cooperate. His heart rate was still high, but little by little he began to adjust to letting the respirator assist him in each breath of air - Good, Iker... that's it, slowly. Everything is fine...-

I hold his forehead for a moment longer until I am sure that he would not try to move again, guiding me by the sound of the monitors to realize that he was calming down. My arms are shaking, as do my legs, my body has not yet recovered enough to withstand such an effort, but I had to do my best not to show it. The least Iker needed at that moment was to worry about me. A minute passed, and Iker had finally adapted his breathing, I gently separated from him, also catching my breath, keeping a hand on his nose.

- Everything is fine Iker... you will be fine- Iker rests his body on the ground again, and observes me in silence, I could see his pupils carefully examining me for wounds- Don't worry about me Iker, I'm fine- His expression He relaxes, closes his eyes for a moment, and opening them again gave me a warm gesture of reassurance, sighed deeply, and smiled up at me. He forms a lump in my throat when I see that even with his wounds... he smiled, he was happy to see nothing bad had happened to me - ... w-we'll be fine... Iker ... -

I couldn't hide my feelings forever. The moment breaks me, and does not allow me to hold my tears any longer. Tears fall to the ground and I hug my own body in cold, pain and remorse. Iker advances a few centimeters until he touches my body again with his nose, offering me his support. I can't help but rest my head on his bruised nose, genuinely wishing he didn't have to go through this.

- 13-H, the patient had a sudden increase in heart rate, quick! -

Alarming voices are heard in the corridor outside the room, room 13-H was the same one we were in right now. Apparently it was time for them to arrive and discover that I had escaped from my room to see Iker. Iker looks at me with concern, but I try to stay as calm as possible, drying my tears in the process, accepting what was going to happen at that moment, even though the anxiety was playing with me.

- Quick! Open the door!-

- I-I can't, it was the manual lock!-

- What? That is impossible, the hybrid could be able to put it ... Security, there was unauthorized access to a restricted room, I request support.-

- Open the door, now! You are in a restricted area. The Warriors will come to take you out by force if you don't open the door now.-

- Wait! - That last voice was known to me, a clearly female voice that, judging by the gasp, had run until she reached the room - I know who entered the room ... please leave this in my hands, I I know what to do.- Clearly it was Adara, and it was more than possible that she was the Hunter who was taking care of me the whole time they kept me sedated-

- Fine, but hurry up, we must check the patient as soon as possible.-

There is absolute silence on both sides of the door, I was at Iker's side at all times. Something in me said that I should obey orders... but another part just didn't want to leave him, not after the complications of finding him, and even more so the state he was in. My stubbornness might end up causing me problems, but I couldn't afford to simply leave Iker alone when he most needed company.

- Tyler... I know you're there. Could you at least get a little closer to the door? I don't like to raise my voice in the hospital ... -

Adara's voice was authoritative, but calm and empathetic. I glance at Iker before pulling away from him, and trudging to the door. I lean my back on the wall closest to the entrance, letting a groan out of my lungs.

- ... Ok, I think you're closer now.- The door shakes, Adara had leaned her body over it so that her voice was as close as possible to me. - Listen Tyler ... I perfectly understand what you feel. You want to be with Iker, and I understand, I've been through the same with Saemus... but not now, not at this time. You are hurt too, and you need to rest. There are people here who will take care of Iker while you recover, but please, you have to leave him alone for now ... the situation is more complicated than just his physical recovery, and it is not allowed to visit hybrids who ... well, they await an investigation.-

There was no response from me, it all just seemed like a plan to make Iker's situation even more difficult, and after knowing Adara's opinion towards the Warriors, and especially Iker, there were reasons to think that she agreed to separate us as much as possible. My silence seems to test her patience, but that didn't stop her from trying in the most peaceful way possible, even if she had to put aside her conservative point of view towards Iker in order to convince me to leave.

- Look... I can easily force this door open, it wouldn't cost me anything ... but I don't want to get to that point, Tyler ... please cooperate with me. And I promise you, that I will do everything possible so that the Leaders give you permission to visit Iker. Do you agree? - Her tone of voice was not as soft as at first, but the sincerity in her words kept them from feeling intimidating.

The fact that Adara tried to negotiate with me was something that I did not expect. I was ready to stand firm and accept whatever scolding was necessary if at least that was how I managed to be with Iker... but it was not like that, it seemed that Adara was giving me the opportunity to put everything on good terms, and even with the possibility of returning to visit my friend in an authorized way. It was something I could not ignore, it was the right thing to do, and convenient for everyone, plus it was possible that Adara was already risking her rank as a Hunter too much by not having fulfilled her mission of taking care of me and preventing me from escaping. I had to put my stubbornness aside for a moment for her too.

- ... Okay ... give me a minute.-

- Alright, but don't take too long ... the Medics looks impatient.-

The effort it took to bend my knees with each step was overwhelming, I had not felt all of my wounds until now, now I recognized that I did need rest. I returned to where Iker, while he kept looking at me with concern, he did not need to express himself in words to communicate, he did not want to separate from me either.

- ... You heard her, we'll meet again when we both feel a little better... I promise you, Iker. We will leave this hospital together faster than you think.- I put my hand on his nose once more to say goodbye, while he closes his eyes when he feels my touch -... See you, my friend. Get well soon.-

Iker blows air from his top vents, making a sound that was known to signify affection or comfort in hybrids, this sound is known as prusten, or chuff, and it was the best way to know that he would be okay.

Reassuring that Iker was in good hands, I returned to the door and removed the manual lock. Then the door swings open quickly from the outside, and the Medics rush into the room, giving me not exactly pleasant glances. The Medics are busy checking Iker, who has closed his eyes again from exhaustion, and to avoid seeing the anxious Medics surrounding him. It was better for him to rest... just like me.

Adara was waiting for me outside the room, arms crossed and with the intention of giving me a scolding that it was clear that I deserved for having done what I had done, but she seems to have pity on me when she sees me from head to toe, she slightly shakes her head from side to side, giving a slight smile.

- Come, let's go back to your room, you must be tired. It's 3 am... I think you couldn't pick a better time to escape. Although I must say, it was pretty brilliant. Nobody noticed until the Medics saw the alarm on Iker's monitor ... -

- Adara... -

- ... Yes, Tyler? -

- ... Thank you.-

Adara sighs heavily, and puts a hand on my shoulder. Her eyes seemed to understand my pain, and not just the physical pain, it was a unique gesture in her, and I was grateful for her empathy, and for taking care of me while I was asleep.

- He will be fine, you can be sure of that. Hybrids are strong, implacable ... - Adara is silent for a moment, recovering the martiality that her rank demanded of her, because something made her feel that she was beginning to give in too much to her feelings while she was still in service- ... The best Medics will take care of him, you have nothing to worry about.-

I understood how difficult it was for Adara to make any positive comment towards Iker simply to make me feel good, and I would not blame her for trying and getting nothing. It wasn't her job to pretend to be Iker's friend, but I was grateful for her effort to respect our friendship.

Although I denied help at first, Adara ended up offering herself as human support from which to help me walk, help that I sorely required after walking a few more meters. My legs felt heavy, and I no longer felt my feet from the cold.

The room welcomes us warmly, Adara helps me settle back into my bed, and I can finally feel my muscles stop being tense. The pain in my body was more bearable, although the pain in my head persisted, and with it the amnesia. I had no idea when I would get those memories back... or even if I would get them back at all.

- Adara... do you know what happened? In the accident with that Vortex? -

Adara takes a drink of her coffee, which she had prepared to stay awake all night if necessary, but which she now used to relax on the sofa where she would sleep.

- I was not there to witness it, but several people gave me their versions of the story... and since the Leaders never forbade me to tell you, I think it won't hurt that you know what I know.- Adara gets comfortable on the couch, adopting a position that allows her to speak more easily -... What I heard was that you were next to an injured hybrid just outside the arena, a white Corvette Stingray named Iris, a Hunter. She... I think she's still in intensive care, but she hasn't woken up since she was admitted. This hybrid had been chased by a Vortex, who for some reason managed to circumvent all kinds of security on the borders of Cilt... why the Vortex let Iris enter the city instead of killing her is a mystery, but it seemed that he was using her as a decoy.-

- Decoy? ... To catch the first human who tried to help her? -

- It is possible, but this specific Vortex is not known for having elaborate attack tactics... it may just have been a terrible coincidence, and that you crossed his line of attack.-

The pair of icy eyes that I saw in my dream again take over my mind, make my skin crawl and make my heart skip a few beats. I swallow to clear my throat, before asking a new question.

- ... And what happened after that? ... I can't remember anything from that point on.-

- Well... the versions vary too much. Some say that Iker arrived just at the time of the attack, and that he managed to prevent the Vortex from killing you, and that while both were fighting in the forest you tried to run towards them to support Iker... But others who claim to have seen everything, say that the Vortex didn't try to kill you ... he just knocked you out, and dragged you into the forest biting your clothes.-

- But then, why is Iker hurt? ... he must have fought with that Vortex.-

- Yes, he fought him after he dragged you into the forest. But Iker... he witnessed the accident before the Vortex attacked... they say he stayed still, watching the Vortex take you... without doing anything to stop it.-

It was hard to believe, although what Adara told me had a fearsome resemblance to what I had relived in my dream ... or maybe it was a memory, and it really was what happened. At least the fact that Adara gave him the benefit of the doubt allowed me to see it more objectively. I wanted to deny that my friend would allow something like this to happen to me, but I knew well that Iker could hide secrets, and that his behavior can be unpredictable. It was better to take those statements very carefully.

- So anyway Iker fought with that Vortex, right? It was what caused his injuries.-

- That's right... if it weren't for Leader Darius intervening in the fight, I don't think Iker... well, I think he would have turned out worse than how it ended.-

- Wait... Darius defended Iker and me... from that Vortex? -

- Yes, the people in the Zeingen said that Darius heard or saw something that alarmed him, he then made his way out of the arena and ran directly towards the place where Iker and the Vortex were fighting. He managed to chase away the Vortex, and took Iker to the hospital right after they took care of you.-

- How is he? They didn't hurt him like Iker, right? -

Adara looks to the ground, but a very slight smile momentarily spreads across her face, before taking the last drink of her coffee.

- Leader Darius is also a Warrior, Tyler. He has fought bigger threats than that Vortex. He's fine.-

- ...- The mental image of Leader Darius intervening in the fight seemed unreal in my mind, for I could swear that the big red LaFerrari was apathetic towards me, but this somehow proved otherwise. Luckily he had come out of this conflict well. I can't do anything other than rub my head, emotionally numb -... Jeez, I must have given myself a big blow to not remember any of that ... I'd better get some sleep.-

- It's a good idea, you have several scratches to heal yet, you're going to need strength if you want to recover quickly, and be able to visit Iker soon.- Adara gets up and helps me to take cover so that I don't have to move more than necessary. She was determined to take care of me as long as it was her duty to watch over me-

- So was what you said true? ... Will you talk to the Leaders to let me visit him? -

- Well... honestly the Leaders have more important things to attend to at this time, but I will speak with a Medical Sub-Leader so that we can schedule a couple of visits with Iker. That's what I can do and I will, I made you a promise.- Adara smiles warmly, making my breathing lighter-

- Thank you... thank you for everything.-

Adara touches my shoulder with her hand to show her support, for moments later to return to the couch, get comfortable on it, and get ready to sleep for a few hours.

Feeling safe, and with much less worry than before, it is easy for me to fall asleep quickly without the help of any sedative... plus the fatigue and pain also helped me to quickly fall asleep.

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The days in the hospital go by so slow, yet so fast at the same time. You lose track of time between so much rest and medications.

The Vortex attack had cost me multiple bruises and scratches, a second degree sprain to my left arm, three stitches in a deep wound to my forehead, a mild head contusion, and my new worst friend; temporary amnesia.

In spite of everything, I was sure that I would get out of the hospital quickly, after all they were only minor injuries... but the Medical staff insisted on keeping me longer than I thought, with the justification that it was necessary to keep me under observation for my injury in the head.

The wounds on my skin healed fast... much faster than I expected. So much so that the Medics were slightly impressed by my speedy recovery, and they constantly whispered among themselves. Few Medics decided to let me know their annoying gossip about me.

- You should visit your hybrid friend more often, boy, he's doing you a lot of good.-

To be totally honest I wasn't completely sure what they meant by that, and every time I asked for an explanation they refused to do so, while giving a little hidden laugh. It is more than possible that it is an inside joke between them.

... I don't like Medics too much to be honest.

Adara kept her promise, and after several failed attempts to convince some Medic to allow me to visit Iker, she managed to speak directly to Edurne, Cilt's Human Leader, who is conveniently a Medic Leader.

As long as I was still in the hospital, I was allowed to visit Iker twice a day, which I tried to ensure that those were the best hours I could offer my friend in his day. Iker made a little progress every day, it was no longer necessary for him to use the respirator, but having tried to take it off multiple times he ended up injuring his throat. It was nothing serious, but it hurt to make the effort to speak, so I was the only one who spoke of the two during visits. I would talk about anything, even the boring routine in my room. During one of the visits, a Medic forgot a magazine inside Iker's room before leaving us alone... it was an uncomfortable situation. I regretted having suggested showing it to Iker, and better left it in its place, waiting for its owner, who soon returned for it.

On one of the last visits with Iker, he made me realize that he felt tired, but he wanted me to keep him company while he slept, and I did. I arranged some covers next to him, and sat on the floor next to him, leaning my back against his side, feeling his doors move from his breathing. It was nice to have his company, even in the current situation. The comfortable moment made me think of a truth that barely crossed my mind at that moment... it was obvious that due to my relationship with my father, Marcus, I automatically became a magnet of dangers, dangers that Iker did not deserve to suffer, to which he has willingly exposed himself by agreeing to be my guide. It was a truth that had been manifested several times already, but this time it was more than evident... it was possible that my presence would put Iker's safety at risk.

The heavy thought pervades my mind, and haunts me until the day when, at last, I would be cleared to leave the hospital, back to common life in Cilt... if that can be considered normal.

The day finally comes when I am discharged from hospital, after four days underground, it felt good to think of feeling the sun on my skin again. I took my time to say goodbye to Iker until he completed his recovery, because that was the condition they put in order to visit him earlier. The clothes I had before the attack had been torn to pieces, so, in an oddly kind gesture, the Medics arranged for me a couple of changes of clothes in my size, enough to be able to stock up on the other things I needed.

- Take care of yourself Tyler, when you leave the hospital a Medic colleague will escort you to your apartment. -A friendly hybrid Medic, a blue Mazda CX-5, says goodbye to me with gentleness when I was already in the reception and waiting room, genuinely wishing me well-

- Thanks, but I don't think it's necessary. I know how to return to my place, but you are very kind.- I kindly decline the Medic's service, feeling that the protection that should be given me would be too exaggerated, but he simply smiles wryly-

- Hehe, well, it's not like you have a choice boy. He insisted on taking you home, and I think you'd better accept his kindness. Trust me.- The hybrid turns around and returns to his duties before I can say anything-

- But... okay... thank you.- I really had no choice. I was very appreciative of the care everyone offered me, but something inside of me didn't make me feel worthy of it. It left me uneasy, and uncomfortable to deserve so much protection-

The sterilization room was the last barrier between me and the outside now. As I was bathed in the cold sterilizing steam, I could see the sunlight, slightly dimmed by the opaque glass on the front doors. The doors finally open, and I walk out of the hospital on my own, carrying the clothes the Medics had given me in my arms.

- Freedom at last.- I breathe deeply, relieved to be able to stand up again. Although a constant melancholy continued to wash over me, and I wasn't sure what it was. Now I should fend for myself in Cilt, at least until Iker recovered. I didn't know where to start- Well ... this Medic's "colleague" should be here ... I think.-

I feel the presence of a hybrid behind me, as it made a little noise when advancing on the ground, and this same hybrid decided to alert me of his approach by clarifying his voice. I turned to where the sound was coming from, and an unmistakable big red Ferrari kept a considerable distance from me, just enough that I wasn't scared by the seemingly sudden appearance of him. He looked calm and with an unusual smile that, although small, was enough to see that the Leader was in a good mood.

- Good morning, young Tyler.- His voice, deep and authoritative as always, offered me a gentle greeting to which I did not know how to answer, since I was honestly a bit intimidated by his large size.-

- L-Leader Darius! I didn't think I'd see you around here again... it's a great coincidence.-

- Well, it would really be a great coincidence if we did not take into account the fact that I am a Medic too, and that it was me who asked to escort you to your new place.- Darius says with a bit of sarcasm, although he maintains his professional profile - Actually I would like to talk with you for a moment, it is about the incident a few days ago. I have the feeling that you must have many questions about it.-

- Actually... I do have them.- I rub my head as the only consolation to the anguish that amnesia caused me - But... Did I hear what you said correctly? ... Something about a "new place"? –

- I'm afraid that with your hybrid guide unable to continue with his duty ... we found it necessary to assign you to a new guide temporarily, and that warrants a change of apartment, at least while your new guide has to take care of you.-

A new place, a new apartment... a new guide. It was like starting from scratch again. I would have to adjust again to the teaching rhythm of a different hybrid, and I wasn't sure how that made me feel.

- I understand, sir... -

Darius seems to notice my doubt and anguish, he seeks eye contact with me empathically and softens the tone of his voice a bit.

- ... I'm sorry about what happened to Iker. I know that you two are friends, and I understand your concern. I hope you can meet soon.- Darius's words of solidarity make me look up again, and thus see him in the eyes with respect - Meanwhile... I would like you to walk with me while we speak, a little exercise will do you good, and our destination is not far from here.

Darius steps forward to show me the path we would take, and once convinced to move, I begin to walk beside him. Once I was next to him, I could see that his abdomen was bandaged, and a large scar was peeking out from the bottom edge of his left door.

- Leader Darius, were you... were you injured by that Vortex too? - I asked with concern when I saw the shocking scar-

- Mmhh? Oh, you ask about the bandages, right? ... No, that wound is old. It was made many years ago by someone a little less pleasant than me, hehe... but sometimes the sensitivity of it incapacitates me, and the bandages help me to continue my work. It is nothing important.- Darius did not look uncomfortable when giving explanations, but I would not search more in matters as private as the event in which the great Leader has obtained said scar.

- ... I knew that you saved Iker and me from certain death ... I don't know how to thank you.-

Darius slows his pace a little, and turns his head slightly to see me, though he is silent for a moment before answering.

- It is the duty of a Warrior to give their life for those who cannot defend themselves from danger. You have nothing to be thankful for, Hopper... I just did what was right. A Warrior is always ready for any eventuality.- The dirt road we were walking on would take us directly to the Stone Podium, which columns were already visible from where we were-... However, what happened with that Vortex is something unheard of. No Warrior would ever be ready for something like that.-

Perhaps Darius was referring to Iker's poor reaction to not being able to face that Vortex the moment he saw him, or it was simply part of his sermon. Anyway, I had to heed the Hybrid Leader's words.

- The Vortex that attacked you has a name; Dheera. But many Warriors learned to call him "The White Terror''. A Lykan Hypersport that has starred in many tragedies throughout the neutral lands... is one of the most dangerous and feared Vortex, and his appearance here in Cilt is not a good sign.- We passed right next to the Stone Podium, and several people greeted Darius with respect, and he took the time to answer the greetings, before resuming the walk, and the conversation- Tyler, what do you know about the Vortexes and their leader? –

- ... not really much, sir. In the Metropolis the information on that subject is too restricted, and censored... I think I just know the basics; They are extremist hybrids, seeking to destroy humans at any cost. And of their leader, I know absolutely nothing... is it Dheera... the leader of the Vortex? -

- No, he is not. But he is perhaps one of the most loyal followers of the Vortex leader... a cruel and tyrant leader, who shows no compassion towards anyone, not even his own people... Neyzan, the self-proclaimed leader of the Vortex.

The repulsion with which Darius mentions both names makes me gulp, and the memory of Dheera pierces my mind once more, like a burlesque figure with sharp teeth, laughing grotesquely at me.

- Now I understand why everyone considers the appearance of that Vortex as a bad omen... - I kept my eyes on the ground for a few moments, processing the fact that I had come face to face with one of the most dangerous Vortexes ever heard. The fact that I survived virtually unscathed was ridiculous, like winning the lottery. The questions pile up nervously on my tongue, knowing that Darius was possibly the most reliable source of information I could access about the accident, as he was directly involved in it. I had no intention of interrupting his talk, but I could not let this opportunity pass either, because Darius being such an important hybrid in Cilt it was possible that I would not have another opportunity like this to ask him directly - ... I would not like to change the subject, but... Could I ask you a question? -

- Sure.- Darius answers, concise as always.

- ... Could you tell me what exactly happened... when Dheera attacked us, Iker and me? -

Darius did not look impressed towards my request, but equally his stiff expression failed a bit to hide a slight discomfort. The great hybrid stops his advance through the forest, turns discreetly to his sides, scanning the area quickly, and once that is done, he turns his voluminous body until it faces me again. The seriousness in his gaze makes the hairs on the back of my neck stand up, and it made me wonder if I should retract my question.

- It would be irresponsible of me to give you information that we both know will affect you... but, at the same time, it would be cruel to hide the truth from you.- Darius reflects on his words before saying them, reaching a personal agreement between what he should do, and what really was correct. - I can only offer you what I could see at that time. Is that information enough for you? -

- ... It would be the only real information I have heard about the incident ... so yes, it will be enough and important for me, Leader Darius.-

- Alright.- Darius nods understandingly, and resumes the gentle walk, mainly to lighten the approaching conversation, - As you well know, my mother, Kassia and I were in the center of the arena along with many other people when the fight finished. The crowd distracted me from my surroundings. It was not me who realized that you had left the arena on your own, it was Kassia who did not take her eyes off you at any time, and it was thanks to her that I was able to act quickly. I was the one who was closest to one of the access ramps, and upon hearing the screams, possibly yours and Iker's, I left the coliseum as fast as I could... but I wasn't fast enough. By the time I was in the clearing you and Dheera had disappeared, and Iker had entered the forest on his way to defend you. Everything happened... too fast, I don't remember many details. When I had finally reached the conflict zone, Dheera had Iker subdued with his abdomen exposed, ready to land a lethal bite, and you were lying on the ground, unconscious with a head wound. I acted as fast as I could in that moment, attacking the Vortex head-on without it seeing me coming towards it, and making sure he didn't get close to either of you again. Dheera managed to evade one of my attacks, and decided to flee as soon as he had the chance to do so ... Although if it wasn't for my priority was to save you two, that Vortex would be dead right now ... - Darius speaks coldly, slightly displeased that he had not been able to finish what he had started with Dheera. - ... Once Dheera fled, and I was sure that he would not return, I called for help to the Medics who were in the area and they immediately took you to the hospital, with Iker we had to stop his bleeding on the spot before trying to move him and take him to the hospital, which took no more time than necessary, and I took care of transporting him to the hospital... And I think that's all I can tell you that you haven't known before, young Tyler.-

Darius's version of the story was not the longest, nor the most elaborate, but it was more than enough to have a better understanding of what had happened, a window into what had happened while I was unconscious, and in a way, it was a one of the most important missing pieces of the confusing mental puzzle that the incident with Dheera had become. I would not dare to ask if he thought that Iker had been paralyzed by fear, and that for that reason he had given the Vortex a chance to attack me, since he had clarified at the beginning that he would only tell me what his eyes had managed to perceive, and maybe that was for the better.

- ... Thank you for your sincerity, sir... I really appreciate that you tell me what really happened.- As I tried to organize the events in my head, a new question was created in my head, now related to the appearance of the Vortex in Cilt. -... I'm afraid that with Dheera still alive, the only risk we run right now is that the Vortex will find new ways to enter the city, since Dheera managed to enter unnoticed.-

- Not only that.- Darius sighs heavily, drawing the air from his lungs with force, - You must understand, young Tyler, that being the only son of Marcus Hopper automatically makes you a target for all Vortex who know your last name... and that's why I must ask you to be very, very careful from now on. I, the Leaders, and the Warriors will do our best to tighten security on Cilt so this does not happen again. But at the end of the day, the one who is responsible for his safety... is you, Tyler. Always keep that in mind, for your sake and that of your friends.-

Darius's words were sincere... coldly honest, like sticking your head in a bucket of ice water in the morning. That little phrase reminded me of my vulnerability. After all, if I kept taking risks, there would be nothing else to protect me, or the people around me. That feeling was familiar. I remembered Iker, and the real cause for which he was still in the hospital, he had sacrificed himself for me... all because I felt confident enough to separate myself from him and the group of Warriors, and try to help someone on my own.

Something inside me wanted to let Darius know of that concern. I was desperate to know if it was possible to protect Iker from possible attacks... but the only option that came to my mind was for the Leaders to decide to remove him as my guide, a mission that Iker was so proud to follow. I wanted to protect Iker, but I didn't have the heart to make such a decision for him... so I swallowed my words... for now.

- ... I will be much more careful from now on, Leader Darius. I will not separate from my guide unless he asks me to.- I give the most neutral answer that comes out of my chest, and that seems to convince the great LaFerrari, who advanced with his head held high, always alert to his surroundings-

- It reassures me to hear that, young Tyler.-

- And may I know... When will I meet my new hybrid guide? -

- We are heading towards him right now. You may already know him. He is an experienced Hunter and Warrior, with a lot of experience as a hybrid guide, an excellent teacher... and my best friend.- Darius shows a sincere smile - his name is Ciro. He will take care of you as many days as necessary. He and Squad 15 of Hunters will be your home for now. I fully trust them, and I am sure that you will feel comfortable in their company.-

Squad 15... the same squad led by Adara... and Saemus. The idea was fabulous except for having to deal again with the same yellow Camaro that was about to turn me into one of the many guys who has possibly been sent to the hospital already for the same reasons. At least it would not be him directly who would take care of me, but the friendly blue Porsche that received me so warmly in Hunters' Village, the same village we were beginning to approach.

Leader Darius and I did not talk much more important things the rest of the way. He was just asking about my life in the Metropolis, and strangely enough he seemed interested in listening to me. Darius was a nice guy to speak to, as he didn't talk much, and he's a great listener.

The road was becoming familiar, and soon we were in the great open meadow that welcomed the Hunters' village. And indeed, the always smiling Ciro warmly welcomes Darius and me.

- Well, well, here is the great Darius himself!- Ciro was loud with his greeting towards Darius, causing him to momentarily lose his serious profile.

- Just look at you, you are closer to becoming a legend than me, my old friend.- Darius's sarcasm provokes a laugh from Ciro, who looked excited. - Well, Tyler, we are here. Ciro will protect you and will be responsible of you for now, if you have questions of any kind do not hesitate to ask him, he is the closest thing to a walking encyclopedia that you can find in Cilt.-

- Oof, I think I'll have to remember that more often, I haven't dusted off my knowledge in a long time. But don't worry boy, I'll do my best to make your stay the best.-

- Thank you very much Ciro, I hope to be as good guest as you are a host.-

- Hehe, I like this guy! He has the charisma of his father.-

- Fine. So my work ends here. Thank you very much Ciro, and good luck, Tyler.- Darius nods his head towards Ciro to say goodbye to him, and he does the same, then turns around, and disappears into the forest, silently-

- Alright Tyler. If you are ready to know the Hunters' Village, you can follow me.-

I took a look in front of me, some modern and abandoned tall buildings contrasted with the rustic wooden constructions closer to the meadow in which we were now. The tallest building of all had a huge yellow H at the top, possibly the last remaining letter from an old "Hotel" sign.

In front of me lies a new place, a new experience. And even if I don't have Iker by my side right now, I'll do my best to make my time with the Hunters as profitable as possible.

Iker would want me to be fine, wherever I am.

And I feel ready for a new challenge.

Hybrid-Kira (2021)