Page 92

“They’ll know,” Typhon said. “Do not worry, sister. All will know.”

“We’re not through this yet by a long shot. Let’s make sure there are people to tell,” Jace reminded them.

“Ah, everyone, there are a lot of Khul here. A lot,” Thammah’s voice came over the comm. There were the pew-pew sounds of lasers followed by the roar of her engines as she strafed the Khul. “I think I need some assistance with this bug hunt!”

“You’re going to have it, Thammah!” Jace answered. “Me, Khoth, Davies, and Dr. Hayter will be joining you.”

“Pilot,” Khoth’s voice was warm, but held a note of reluctance.

“You’re not going anywhere, Pilot.” Davies stood in front of Jace with hands on his hips.

“Pilot, we will keep you safe here,” Amana said kindly.

“Indeed. I will remain by your side as well, Pilot,” his father offered.

Khoth felt a swell of warmth. His father was willing to protect Jace. That was so much more than he’d ever hoped.

“You are unwell, Pilot,” Typhon said. “I know your bravery and all have seen your victory here, but--”

“Oh, guys! Guys! Time out!” Jace made a “T” symbol with both hands. “I know I’m a mess. I have no delusions that I can walk to that door right now let alone fight the Khul. Besides, I still have to help with the battle up above, fire the BFG and all that.”

“BFG?” his father tilted his head to the side.

Jace flushed. “Big Fucking Gun. That’s what I’m calling your Hive killer over underneath the remains of the stadium.”

“But you told Thammah you would be joining her in the battle,” Khoth pointed out.

“Yeah, I will!” He put a hand on Gehenna’s metal butt. “I’m going to try a new form just like our girl here.”

Gehenna’s head swiveled around as she remarked gaily, “I found Jace a mech he can pilot with his mind while he stays right in that chair!”

Dr. Hayter blinked. “Oh, my, a mech. Will it be like some of those wonderful anime, I suppose? Though, of course, most of those pilots go mad.”

“Don’t worry about that. These systems sing for me,” Jace said, settling back in the chair. “And better yet, this mech will get you to the action super quick. It’s waiting for you up on the landing pad. Head on up there now.”

“I will be in this war party with you,” Typhon said as he stripped off his outer robes to reveal a bodysuit underneath that showed just how powerful a form he had.

“The more the merrier,” Jace remarked, but dryly and his eyes narrowed as he took in Typhon’s physique. “Good luck, everyone. I’ll be with you every step of the way. But this is the real deal. Nobody is safe. So please, please, please be aware of your surroundings at all times.”

“That is understood,” Typhon answered

But even as the others moved towards the door, except Amana and his father, Khoth lingered. Jace’s head turned toward him. There was a questioning look on Jace’s face, even as there was anxiety there too, but then it cleared up when Khoth spoke.

“I believe I should remain here with you, Pilot,” Khoth said softly.

No matter how much he wanted to fight for his people, Jace was his life. And truly, Jace was his people’s life, too. Without Jace, Haseon would have fallen. All their defenses, all their belief in their safety, was gone.

“I know. But I need you out there. The shield will keep the Khul out,” Jace told him gently. “I’m actually freaking out sending you… sending you away. But I don’t think we can win this without you. I… I know we can’t.”

Khoth swallowed. “But you may need--”

“I always need you,” Jace interrupted gently. “Alway. And… I don’t know what I would do if I…” Jace shook his head and let out a breath. “But you need to be out there killing the Khul and saving the people. Or that’s what I keep telling myself.”

Khoth gave a jerky nod. “I will do as you say, Pilot.”

“You’re coming back to me,” Jace stated. It was not a question.

“Yes.”