The Sea in our Veins

Virgil awoke to someone gently shaking him. His chest throbbed as he slowly opened his eyes. He found himself face to face with August, causing him to jolt back in surprise.

“We have to go. I’m getting you out of here,” August said desperately as she rushed to undo the restraints pinning Virgil to the chair. As soon as Virgil was free, he collapsed into August’s arms, too weak from blood loss to stand on his own. August shook off her lab coat and gave it to Virgil to put on. He leaned on August as she led them both to the door. August glanced out into the hallway before she glanced at her watch. “It should just be a couple more minutes,” August said, “How are you doing?”

Virgil tried to breath shallowly as breathing deeply sent waves of pain emanating from the wound in his chest, “I’m doing okay,” Virgil replied slowly.

Just then, a loud alarm rang out. August pulled the door open a crack and peaked out. Virgil could hear shouting coming from down the hall and then the screaming started. Virgil tried to leave the room to help whoever was screaming but August stopped him and told him to wait.

Finally, when August deemed that it was safe, she led Virgil down the hall. They passed a couple of guards who ran down the hallway but the guards didn’t pay any attention to August or Virgil. The two of them continued down the hall, with Virgil needing to lean on August more as they continued on. Virgil tried to blink the black spots out of his eyes as they continued.

At the end of the hallway, August and Virgil found the exit blocked by two guards. August nodded towards Virgil, “He needs medical attention.”

“I’m sorry but no one is allowed past this point,” one of the guards said, “We have a security breach. You can treat him in a room down the hall.”

“I’m sorry,” August’s voice went cold, “Do you know who I am?”

“I’m sorry ma’am but the rules are the rules,” the guard said, “No one is allowed past here.”

“Just let them,” the second guard finally spoke up, “He clearly needs help.”

“But…” the first guard started.

The second guard ignored the first guard and held the door open for August and Virgil. “The second door on your right has the medical supplies.”

“Thank you,” August said as she helped Virgil past the guards and through the door. Virgil was so relieved to finally see the exit at the end of the hallway. “We’re almost there,” August said, “Just hold on for a little longer. Help is coming.”

August helped Virgil down the hall but before she could open the door, the door swung open of its own accord. Virgil glanced up in surprise to see Wesley standing in the doorway. When Wesley saw Virgil, his face lit up. He ran at Virgil and scooped him up into a hug. Virgil ignored the pain from his wound as he hugged Wesley tightly.

“You’re here,” Virgil said, “I didn’t think that you would come.”

“Of course I’m here,” Wesley replied, “I’m sorry for taking so long to find you.”

Just then, the door opened behind Wesley and Ivan and Jack walked in, both of them carrying ornate swords, which to Virgil’s horror, were covered in blood. They both smiled when they saw Virgil, “You found him,” Ivan exclaimed.

“We have to get out of here,” Jack said, “The king with the calvary is coming and I’d advise that we not be here when they come.”

“Right,” August said as she and Virgil followed the others outside. When they got outside, they found a car waiting for them. When Virgil got into the car, he was surprised to find Emma in the drivers seat.

“Long time no see,” Emma said, “It’s good to have you back, Virgil,” Then Emma turned to August, “Thank you for your help August.”

“You guys know each other?” Virgil asked, confused, “How?”

“August managed to contact me when she found out that I was looking for you,” Emma said, “She was the one to come up with the plan.”

The group then piled into the car with Jack in the driver's seat. As they left the lab, Virgil refused to look back and instead, looked forward.