Chapter Text
The air was heavy around the few remaining friends who stood in the midst of the destruction around them. “Jim…are you sure you can do this?” Claire asked softly.
James Lake Jr. hesitated because the truth was he wasn’t ready. The krohnisfere make right. He could save so many lives. Not just Toby, Nomura, Nari and Strickler. He could save Merlin, Vendal and Draal as well. He could do so much good if he went back again. He then drew in a shuddering breath “I want to. So much. But I don’t think I can do this alone.” He said shakily.
To be the only one to remember all of the death and destruction. To see the light drain from the eyes of his best friend. These images were going to haunt him for the rest of his life. And if nobody else remembered he would have no one to talk to about it. He was already not in a good mental place but this…this was more than he could handle. He was still just a teenager. Suddenly Douxie stumbled up to him, holding his side in pain before he placed a careful hand on Jim’s shoulder “Maybe you don’t have to.” He said softly.
Jim looked up at him in surprise “What do you…” “I…think I know a spell. To send one person back with you. But I can only send one. I need you…I need you to choose.” He cut in.
Jim frowned at that while everyone began volunteering. He could have one person go back with him? But who would he choose? He turned to the Akiridian group and immediately crossed them off the list. They didn’t get to earth till later so their past counterparts would be no help. Blinky and Aaarrrgh as well. He loved them both but they couldn’t give him the kind of support that he needed. That left Douxie and Claire. He looked back and fourth between the two and it hurt but he knew he only had one choice. “Jim?” Claire asked, looking worried.
Jim carefully moved forward, grabbing her hands “Claire, you know I will always love you till the end of time right?” he breathed.
Claire nodded, looking sad “You aren’t…picking me are you?” she asked softly.
Jim hesitated at that before looking at Douxie who gave a tired smile “I’ve lived over nine hundred years. I have seen a lot of bad and I could definitely help you get through this. I’m assuming you aren’t just picking someone who can fight?” he asked.
Jim nodded “I need someone who can help me cope as well. And to keep me grounded. I think you can do that.” He said hesitantly.
Besides, he couldn't force Claire to live with those memories. He loved her far to much to put her through that.
Claire sighed at that, leaning forward so that she rested her forehead against Jim's “Promise me that you won’t give up on me until I love you.” She begged.
Jim smiled softly at that “Promise.” He whispered.
He then took a step back, looking at Douxie “What do we need to do?” he asked.
Douxie frowned, already messing with his gauntlet and activating a spell on it. He then walked forwards, placing a hand on Jim’s shoulder. Jim gasped at that, feeling Douxie’s pain flood through him. The wizard seemed almost as badly wounded as he himself was. That drew a concerned look that made Douxie shake his head “I’ve intertwined our destinies with a soul bond. I…don’t know the consequences it will have but it should send me back as it sends you.” He said.
Jim frowned at that “Is it removable?” he asked. Douxie hesitated “Maybe. I’d have to check my books at the bookshop when we go back.” He said.
Jim nodded at that, accepting it before looking at the stone. If that was what it took to have someone he could actually talk to then he would accept it being somewhat permanent. If not completely permanent. “So if I destroy this you will go back with me?” he asked for confirmation.
Douxie nodded “I’m as sure as can be.” He said.
Jim nodded at that, taking a step forward “I look forward to seeing all of you in the future.” He said softly.
He then gave a yell as he swung his sword down on the stone, the bright green light blinding them all before cold flooded Jim’s system and everything slowly faded to black taking away all sensations.