Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

*Knock Knock*

“Stiles? Son? You need to get up or you're going to miss the train for your first day!” His dad, General Stilinski, called out through the door of his room before walking away. “Don’t make me come in there!”

Stiles groaned as he covered his face with his pillow. There was a slight hum coming from the air filtration unit that was connected to his room. He’s grown use to it, since the hum only starts up after certain times. Like a makeshift alarm clock. He really wished he hadn’t stayed up late the night before. He wanted to blame Scott, his best friend, for keeping him up but this felt like a personal issue…

Actually, yea. He’ll totally blame Scott. It’s easier that way.

Hearing his dad call out to him again from the other side of their housing pod, Stiles finally got up with a sigh.

After anticipating the first day of school for the past couple of weeks, he wasn’t sure how to feel. He wanted to be excited, but he was also nervous. Freshman year was okay. He and Scott mainly kept to themselves. Of course, they had their fair share of freshman hazing. A small amount of bullying here and there, but all in all, he was ready to start sophomore year off strong. He’d seen old movies of how surface schools were, and there were some differences. A big one being how stuffy everything is. A downside of living underground; there isn’t much space.

He just hoped he didn’t fall on his ass before the day even got started.

Judging by the sound of oil sizzling and the smell of bacon permeating the air, Stiles could tell his dad was attempting to make breakfast. He was surprised his dad was even still home, since he was the general of the sector police force, the Omega sector. The last and smallest of the five sectors that remained of the United States.

As a general, his dad was pretty high up on the food chain and usually had a busy schedule. Stiles wished he could spend more time with his dad. He knows there is a lot going on nowadays, especially since being a general is not only demanding, but obviously dangerous. He just missed the old times with his dad. Since Stiles was starting school again, at least he wouldn’t have to spend his time staring at his wall anymore.

Getting up from his bed with a yawn, Stiles padded out of his bedroom and made his way to the bathroom to relieve himself and get ready for the day. He really hoped everything worked out. He’d been having this weird itch in the back of mind, like a faraway voice was calling out to him, that today was a big day… he just couldn’t scratch it and figure out why.

Stiles was at the table, wolfing down his plate of wannabe bacon, the sector's way of recreating bacon since meat is limited. Bright red strips with an ugly green stripe down the middle. Not appealing at all, but it got the job done.

His dad came up to the table, fixing his tie. “Alright, come on. School is starting soon.”

Stiles looked up at his dad, fake bacon midway to his mouth. “You better not be taking me to school.”

His dad raised an eyebrow, like the answer should be obvious. “And why not? It’s my son’s first day. The least I could do is take him to the front door.”

Stiles groaned as he got up and brought his plate to the sink. “I can walk myself, dad. Do you know how embarrassing it is to have the general of the entire sector take you to school? That’s like a breach siren sounding out in the middle of the lunch period; a total social fallout. Definitely not cool.”

“I did it for you last year and I didn’t hear you complaining.”

“Exactly, and see how my freshman year turned out? A social reject. Scott and I had to cling to walls to stay safe.” Stiles walked over to his chair and picked up his bag. “Scott and I can walk ourselves. Thank you, but it’s fine.”

His dad stood there eyeing him for a long time. Stiles felt himself fidget under his gaze before he finally spoke. “What if something happens and I'm not there?”

Stiles softened his tone. “Dad, nothing is going to happen. There hasn’t been a sector breach in months.”

He said it in an attempt to reassure his dad, but also himself. Sector breaches were happening more frequently nowadays and anything could happen. There used to be eight sectors in the country, now there’s just five. Over the years, it looked like things were getting worse on the surface. Stiles couldn’t blame his dad for feeling nervous. The last time Omega sector had a breach, his dad was spending days in the field, pushing the Others back to the surface. Now, that part of the sector wasn’t even habitable anymore.

Well, until his dad deems it safe enough again. Which will probably never happen.

His dad rubbed a hand down his face before putting his other hand on his utility belt and nodding. “Alright-Alright. You're a big boy now. The least you could do is take yourself to school. You remember your training though, right?”

Stiles rolled his eyes and nodded. “Yes, dad. See something, say something. A human is a brother, be wary of—

“The Other.” His dad nodded as he finished the same tired line the government had been throwing out for as long as Stiles could remember. It was a saying to teach kids to only trust other humans, and not to trust anything that was strange or odd. The saying is very outdated and he was annoyed that it was drilled into his head.

“See, everything is going to be fine. Nothing to be worried about.” 

His dad just gave him one last long look before finally conceding. “Okay, have fun at school. I probably won’t be back tonight. Working late since I didn’t go in this morning. I love you.”

Stiles waved at his dad as he walked to the exit. “Love you too, see you later.”

The year was 2026. It’s been fourteen years since the end of the world, or at least that’s what the older generation says. Stiles was only two when the Others invaded earth. Aliens from another world. He obviously doesn’t remember anything before that time, but he’s heard stories and watched movies about it. 

Bright sun and blue skies. It sounded like a real dream.

Stiles only had history books to go off of, but after the Others invaded, humanity didn’t stand a chance. It was over in days.

They sent out a wave that swept across the Earth, decimating most of everyday life. Electronics no longer worked, power plants shut down, even weapons and defense systems became dormant. It wasn’t hard to imagine how easily humans lost, but the government had a plan. That’s where the bunker systems came into play. With all the technology the Others possessed, they couldn’t penetrate the Earth's crust. Stiles always found that confusing. How could aliens decimate half the earth with one psychic wave but they couldn’t drill down two feet? 

Odd. Strange. Definitely a conspiracy theory hidden in there somewhere.

Anyways, to his knowledge, there were a little over seventy thousand humans left in the United States bunker system. Doesn’t sound like much, but when you’ve lived in a tunnel your whole life, everything feels cramped.

Omega Sector is under what used to be Northern California, not that it meant anything to him. It all looked the same once you’re underground. 

It was common knowledge that the Others sent out only two waves: the first one in 2012, the second one in 2018. Stiles didn’t want to bring up his memories of the second wave. Not only because he was just eight years old and didn’t remember much… except for one. The day his mother died as they were trying to escape. At the time, they were living in what used to be the Zeta Sector. After the second wave, he and his dad barely made it out alive before it collapsed. Now, they were just trying to survive in Omega.

Stiles thought they were doing pretty well if he said so himself. His dad was a big top notch general and he himself was the soon to be the hottest sophomore in school.

Stiles stepped out of his pod and took a deep breath. The air filtering in through the vents carried a slight metal tang. He looked up and down the corridor that connected the housing pods, but he didn’t have to wait long. Only a few seconds passed before the pod door across from him slid open. His best friend, Scott McCall stepped out with his mom, Melissa McCall, standing behind him.

Stiles waved a greeting. “Hey, Mama M. How you doing?”

Melissa waved back, her medical uniform already on her person and her brown curls tied up in a messy bun. “I’m good, Stiles. Try not to get into too much trouble today. It’s only the first day.”

Stiles smiled as he moved forward. “I’ll try my best, but no promises.” He then turned to Scott, who was walking towards him. “Hi, Scotty. Ready for the best year of our lives?”

Scott rolled his eyes as they started down the corridor. His best friend had decided to grow his hair out so his curls were very prominent, and they framed his face nicely. “It’s just another year. Nothing serious.”

Which was an understatement. According to sector law, all children under fourteen had to be homeschooled. Not knowing if the kids would actually make it to tomorrow, the government didn’t want to spend too many resources on them.

Or at least, that’s what Stiles liked to believe.

Before he turned fifteen last year, he would always sneak out and catch glimpses of the big bad highschoolers. They always looked so cool to him. He had watched old movies and saw how high school used to be. So going into freshman year, he had high hopes. Not to say his expectations weren’t met but… it could’ve been better.

“Another year? Scott, can’t you see it?” Stiles wrapped one arm around Scott’s shoulder and used his other hand to motion in front of them dramatically. “This is the year everything changes. Our entire lives start now.”

“This is our second year in highschool—“

“Nevermind that, just picture it.” Stiles closed his eyes and took a deep breath. “We will not be deemed social losers anymore. We will be the alphas of Omega Sector. We will get all the girls and glory.”

They walked in silence for a few seconds before Scott snorted. “I think you need a few more hours of sleep. You're hallucinating.”

Stiles opened his eyes and sent a dry look to Scott as he dropped his arm from his shoulder. “And here comes Mr. Doom-and-Gloom.”

Scott shrugged as they turned the corner and the corridor they were walking down opened up into an even larger one. This one was a more public area and was where most foot traffic happened. Students and various other workers of some kind strolled along next to them. “Dude, I'm just saying. You said the same thing last year.”

“Just trust the process, okay? I have a plan.”

“A plan? And what is this super special plan?”

Stiles held his head high as they walked towards the subway station. “Don’t worry about it. You’ll just have to wait and see.”

Scott rolled his eyes as they switched conversations and the corridor continued to open up. Various posters plastered the stone walls and random spray-painted graffiti covered a few sections that weren’t already tagged. There wasn’t much foliage or anything of the sort. Just metal grates, steel pipes, stone walls, and random other debris. Despite Omega Sector not being the prettiest, Stiles still called it home.

“I’m surprised your dad isn’t walking us to school today,” Scott started once they entered the subway station and passed the turnstiles. “Considering what’s been happening the past few months.”

Stiles huffed. “Oh he wanted to. He really did, but I told him to stay home. Our social status is already in the dumpster without having the sector general walk us down the mile.” The two of them weren’t on the platform for more than a few seconds before the subway car pulled up in front of them. They quickly got on with everyone else around them and found two seats next to each other.

“Yea, my mom almost freaked out when I left this morning, but I told her nothing was going to happen. You know they gave her a promotion at the medical lab? Now that she has higher clearance, she gets to see a lot more stuff.” Scott laid his bag on the floor in front of him. “I guess it’s got her spooked.”

Stiles nodded knowingly as he patted Scott’s shoulder. “I know what you mean. I remember when my dad first became a general. He wouldn’t let me go anywhere because he was so scared that an Other was going to pop out and snatch me up. He said he saw reports and heard stories that he had no idea was even happening when he was just a lieutenant.”

Scott nodded. “What is it with parents and worrying too much?”

Stiles shrugged and opened his mouth to reply, but was interrupted by a loud beeping. He glanced at the tv that was hooked up to the ceiling of the subway car but ultimately decided to ignore it once it started blaring the same boring message that it always did.

It was a message from the company: ALIE, pronounced AL-eye. The abbreviation stood for All Life Is Essential. Pretty cut and dry.

ALIE was a company that handled pharmaceuticals, technology, healthcare, and basically everything else that had to do with everyday life. ALIE didn’t pop up until after the second wave, where it made an announcement to better the world and work closely with the government to help humans.

ALIE is your ally, is their motto.

Stiles didn’t really care for them. They were just the company that put food on his lunch plate and monitored how much water he used in the shower. That’s it.

“My dad told me yesterday that I shouldn’t give in to peer pressure and to stay away from cliques,” he continued with a roll of his eyes. “Like, c'mon dad. I am the peer pressure!”

Scott snorted. “Stiles, maybe you should listen to him. You remember what happened last year, when you tried to join that one club?”

Stiles scoffed and placed a hand on his chest dramatically. “How dare you bring that up when I told you to never speak of it again? That is rude. I won’t stand for it. How many times have I forced you to sneak out with me? How many times have I made you do things you didn’t want to do but then later thanked me for it?”

Scott made a face. “When you say it like that you make it sound weird.”

Stiles waved a hand dismissively. “Point being; I am the peer pressure… I just get a little shy sometimes.”

“Try all the time. Around anybody you don’t know.”

“That’s not true! I can be a social butterfly when the situation calls for it,” Stiles defended. Sure, his people skills are rusty. And he is very all over the place so people found it too much sometimes. But he’s very funny and his sarcasm is going to take him places. So everything cancels out.

Scott huffed as the subway car slowed to a stop and he stood up. “Yea, let's see how that goes for you.”

The two of them stepped out with the few dozen other kids that were heading to school. Hanging at the top of the corridor was a sign that read: Beacon Hills Highschool. Stiles wasn’t sure who chose that name but he felt like he could’ve picked a better one. Considering this was one of the only two high schools in the entire sector. The other one being Beacon Valley. Another strange name.

Stiles walked with Scott into a wide hallway, packed with other kids their age. To the left and right of them were different selections of said kids. There were the jocks, the girly girls, and nerds with their noses in books. Stiles himself didn’t feel like he belonged to any of those groups. He decided he would just make his own with Scott.

Obviously just two people wasn’t a group, but maybe he could find others to join his growing squad.

The two of them made their way down the hall towards their lockers. “I’m still thinking about joining the team,” Scott said out of nowhere.

Stiles rolled his eyes. “And did you forget that your asthma isn’t going to let you run more than three feet without making you feel like you're dying?” Scott had gotten it in his head that it would be a good idea to try out for the lacrosse team, since it was the only sport allowed in the sector.

After the second wave, most travel between sectors kind of slowed, if not halted entirely. That made sports and other various forms of entertainment hard to come by. It was decided that each sector would only have one sport to choose from. For some god awful reason, Omega Sector voted for lacrosse.

Stiles wished they had chosen something interesting, like football. Sadly, that sport was locked behind Alpha Sector. He doubts he’d ever get close enough to Alpha Sector in his lifetime to catch a glimpse of it.

Scott gave him a dry look as he opened his locker. “Gee, thanks for the moral support. I really appreciate it.”

Stiles shrugged, moving to lean against the wall of lockers. “I’m just being realistic. Gym class is already a hassle for you. Now imagine lacrosse. And you know how tightly locked that team is. I don’t know if you noticed but the captain is a real tool.”

“Do you even know who the captain is?”

“Of course not, but if he’s the captain of the lacrosse team, he’s a tool.”

Scott shook his head with a chuckle just as a speaker bolted to the hallway ceiling crackled with static.

“Attention, all students, please report to the gymnasium for Principal Paul’s orientation speech,” the voice over the speaker announced. “This is mandatory. Thank you.”

“Well, time to face the music. Come on,” Stiles nodded down the hallway just as Scott closed his locker. The two of them moved with the large mass of bodies heading towards the gym.

Omega Sector only had a population of seven thousand. Out of that number, two thousand were kids. That number was split in half between Beacon Hills and Valley. Not exactly a booming social scene. 

When he and Scott entered the gym, he saw rows of hundreds of students already lining the bleachers. Stiles silently wished he and Scott had made it there a little earlier to get better seats, but the two of them ended up finding spots all the way in the back regardless.

A tall, redheaded man with glasses and a trimmed beard stood at a podium in the middle of the gym and tapped on the microphone. “Good Morning, everyone. I want to start off by saying I am Principal Paul, and welcome to another year at Beacon Hills High. Home of the Cyclones!” The man spoke with an accent Stiles couldn’t put a finger on.

There were mixed reactions from the student body. Most students whistled and clapped, but others just seemed bored of the introduction. Principal Paul raised a hand to calm the crowd before speaking again. “I would like to take this moment to draw your attention to the mandatory safety video that will explain the rules and regulations of the school, but also those of the sector.”

He turned with a remote in hand just as a giant projection screen fell down from the ceiling behind him. While someone dimmed the lights in the gym, Principal Paul clicked a button on the remote and a video started playing on the screen.

Stiles tuned most of it out. It was the same one from last year. It was a video of some random man in a stiff military getup telling all students that they were expected to stay vigilant, stay safe, and stay aware. In these recent times, anything can happen. Nobody is fully safe unless we all do our part. He then went on to explain that the school would be following the sector protocols and policies. All students are required to take two extra courses, as well as their mandatory four and blah blah blah.

Stiles almost fell asleep trying to pay attention to what was said.

The video ended with a sponsor from the one and only ALIE. Of course it was sponsored. 

Principal Paul turned off the video and lifted the screen with a press of a button while the lights turned back on. “Well, isn’t that exciting? I encourage all students to think carefully about these next few years of their lives. These are the years that redefine your entire existence. You are the future of humankind.” He raised his hands with a smile. “Each of you are destined for great things, you just have to stay alive long enough to take hold of it.”

Stiles thought that was a pretty morbid to tell a bunch of kids, and judging by the awkward shuffling of those around, everyone else thought so as well.  

Principal Paul lowered his hand and coughed nervously. “Aside from that, I’d like to give the floor to the senior class president to explain the upcoming homecoming. Everyone give a warm welcome to Laura Hale!”

There was a polite chorus of applause as a brown-haired, ponytailed girl in jeans and a school hoodie jogged on stage from the side of the stands. She took the place in front of the podium that Principal Paul vacated and flashed everyone a bright, confident smile.

“How is everyone today?” Laura called out. “I hope you guys are doing amazing and are ready to crush Beacon Valley to the ground this Friday!” She clapped while the crowd threw out whistles and cheers in anticipation. “This year, we have the best of the best as our lacrosse captain. Jackson Whitemore!” She motioned to somewhere in the stands as a blonde-haired boy stood up and waved to those around him, flashing his perfect teeth. “Between you and me, my money's on Jackson taking home the bacon every. Single. Time! Doors open at six sharp! So be there, or be square! Go Cyclones!”

Laura let out a sharp whistle towards the crowd before taking her leave and Stiles turned to whisper to Scott. “And you're telling me this is appealing to you?”

His best friend scanned the bustling crowd with a smile and wide eyes. “Every bit of it.”

As the crowd started to die down, Principal Paul stepped up to the podium once more. “Wow, make sure you guys come out and show some school spirit. I know I will. With that being said, you all should already have your class schedules. Don’t forget to stop by the main office if you have any questions. Or if you see your senior president, I’m sure she wouldn’t have any issue with helping you guys out. As always, stay safe. Stay vigilant. And stay alive. You are all dismissed.”

Stiles reached into his bag and pulled out his class schedule as the gym erupted into mild chaos. Hundreds of students wanting to get out as fast as they could and head to their respective classes. Stiles himself saw that his first period was study hall. A free period. He was thankful that God offered him this mercy.

“What class do you have?” Scott asked, his own schedule already in his hand.

Stiles looked at him with a grin. “Study hall. I get to relax while the rest of you guys suffer.”

Scott shook his head and got up from his seat. “You're so lucky. I have Mr.Harris for my first period.”

Stiles stood up with a pained expression and patted Scott on the shoulder. “Well, it was nice knowing you, buddy. I’ll look after your mom for you.”

Scott gave him a dry look as he swatted at his hand. “So I guess I’ll see you at lunch then?”

“Yup. I’ll see you later.”

Study hall went by smoothly. Since it was his first period, he didn't have any homework so he just stuck to doodling in his notebook and trying not to fall asleep. He didn’t know anybody in his class and without Scott there, he didn’t feel inclined to make any friends.

His second period wasn’t anything special either. English class, AP version. Fancy name, same boredom as regular English.

He’d always been good at English. Considering it was his first language after all, but words on paper were just words to him. Stringing them into a sentence “worthy” of an AP class wasn’t hard. 

Anyways, he didn’t break a sweat until he hit his third period: Biology. Upon squinting at his schedule, he groaned.

It was with Mr.Harris.

Stiles stumbled his way into the Biology Lab. He hated Mr.Harris last year, and already knew he was going to hate him this year.

“Mr.Stilinski. You're late,” Mr.Harris called out from behind a steel table in front of the class. The man was looking intently down at a textbook, a clutter of beakers and flasks laid out next to him. On the table in front of him sat something covered with a grey wool cloth. 

“This class doesn’t start for another five minutes.” Stiles furrowed his brow and pointed to the clock on the wall before looking around the empty classroom. There were only two other people in the class at the time. Two kids that didn’t look familiar and he probably wouldn’t even remember once he left the room.

Harris scribbled in his textbook but still didn’t look up. “Five minutes early is never early. It's five minutes late. On time isn't even a factor. Keep that in mind next time.”

Stiles opened his mouth to respond before closing it in a fine line and nodding stiffly. Offering a reply would only further the conversation, which would A) end with him getting detention, or B) trap him in an extended conversation with Harris. Neither one of those seemed ideal.

Instead, he moved towards a random seat in the middle of the class but was close enough to pay attention, and set up shop. He really hoped Harris was in a good mood today.

As the bell rang, and more students filed in, Stiles was too focused on doodling in his notebook when somebody suddenly stepped up to him and tossed their bag on the table. He jumped back slightly and turned a confused look towards the person who did the throwing.

It was the boy that Laura had pointed to during the orientation, Jackson Whittemore, and he was looking at Stiles like he was the most irritating thing on the planet.

“Dude, you're in my seat,” Jackson said, his face caught between confused and annoyed.

Stiles looked around the room for a second before turning back to Jackson with a furrowed brow. “Uh, who are you talking to? Because it can't be me. I was here first and there’s no names on the seats.”

Jackson looked a little taken aback by the response, or by the fact that Stiles was unfazed by his approach. “You were here first, but now I'm here. So move before I fucking move you.”

Stiles smiled sweetly, but he felt his eyebrow twitch slightly. His annoyance bubbling under. “Well then try your best, Cupcake. I'm right here.”

“Mr.Whittemore!” Mr.Harris called out from the front of the class. “If you're done having a chat with Stilinski, then maybe you should take a seat. Class is about to begin.”

Jackson scoffed, jabbing a finger at Stiles. “But he’s in my seat!”

Harris narrowed his eyes slightly, as if he couldn’t believe what he just heard. “There are no assigned seats in my class, and even if there were, I dread the day I put you so far in front when there are other students who would benefit more from my teaching. Since there seem to be no more open seats, you are free to take the seat next to Stilinski. Now, so that I may start the class.”

Jackson let out another scoff, throwing a seething glance at Stiles, before moving to sit in the chair next to next to him at the same lab desk. “This isn’t fucking over,” he whispered, pulling his bag closer.

Stiles didn’t even turn his way. “We have all school year to stand around and flirt. How about we focus for now?” He could already tell he wasn’t going to like Jackson. Total tool, just like he’d told Scott.

“Welcome to Biology,” Harris started from behind his table before fixing his glasses. “My name is Mr.Harris. Today, since it is the first day of school, I would like to catch everyone up on the basics of what you should already know as sophomores. If you do not know what I am about to tell you, then I feel sorry for your parents.” Harris reached over and removed the cloth that was in front of him, revealing a large mass of black goo that seemed to stretch out in a web across a metal sheet.

“What the hell is that?” Stiles heard Jackson whisper beside him with a disgusted look. A few of the other students in the class seemed to share his sentiment.

“This, children, is commonly known as the Other Infection. If I were to tell you the scientific name it would just hurt your little brains.” Harris picked up a metal stick and pointed to an area on the black goo that looked the most concentrated. The black goo almost seemed to reach out towards the stick. “The Other Infection is a viral infection that is seen in most animals and plants on the surface. It appeared after the second wave. As you may know, the first wave in 2012 was to target our electronic grid, meanwhile the second wave was to target our biologic grid. Most animals and plant life after the second wave were infected with this virus. While humans can’t get infected, it can still harm our immune system and make us sick if ingested. Breathing in the spores is relatively safe as long as the infection is not attached to an animal or plant. Which is why it is alright to have it in our class today.”

Stiles leaned over his table to get a closer look at the goo in the front of the class. He’s only ever seen pictures of it in his dads office the many times he snuck inside. He’s never seen the infection in person.

“I want each of you, by table, to come up to the front and examine this infected mass as I continue to explain what we know of it so far.” Harris pointed to the first pair of students, who stood up from their chairs uneasily and moved towards the table. “As I said, after the second wave, this infection spread through plants and animals like wildfire. If you notice, there aren't any pets in the Omega Sector because of this. Mind you, not all animals and plants were infected. If that were the case we wouldn’t have any food to eat at all.”

Stiles quickly wrote all of this down. He wasn’t expecting to head to the surface or smuggle in a pet from the other sectors, but you never know when this information would come in handy.

“When there is no plant life or animal nearby, the infection enters what we call a dormant period. It will stay stationary until a suitable host becomes available. During this period it is advised for humans to not interact with it unless to destroy it. Which is easily done with any number of weapons. Fire is the most effective,” Harris droned as the next set of students came up to his table. One student even attempted to reach out and touch the goo, but Harris promptly smacked their hand away with his metal stick. “Again, while humans can't be infected, physical contact with the infection for long periods of time can deteriorate our immune systems. A few seconds? A rash. A few minutes? You get a cold. A few hours? A coma. Some people have stronger immune systems and can handle the side effects better, but that doesn’t mean we shouldn’t adhere to safety protocols. Be careful, and you’ll stay alive.”

It was now time for Stiles and Jackson to get up and take their turn at gawking at the black goo. Stiles brought his notebook up with him so he could continue taking notes. He didn’t want to miss out on anything.

Harris sent him a brief, curious glance. Most likely since he was the only one who looked to be actively taking notes. “Granted, not much is known about the infection despite it being around for more than eight years, but our top scientists are working hard to cure it. Maybe one of you in this room will become smart enough to figure it out, though I highly doubt it because if that was the case; you would not be in my class right now.”

Stiles leaned forward to get a closer look at the black goo. Harris wasn’t wrong when he said the infection goes into a dormant phase. It looked so frozen in time that Stiles had a hard time picturing it moving.

As if reading his thoughts, Harris continued with his lecture. “Dont let looks deceive you. If one of you grows up to become a field operative or of the sort and you are brought to the surface, you will see a multitude of things. Such as hives where this infection is most concentrated. These hives, or nests, are ground zero for where the infection first appeared. When the infection is not in a dormant state, the billions of microorganisms that make up its form will actively seek out a nearby host. Humans are not suitable hosts but the virus is intelligent. It will attempt to ‘hitch a ride’, for lack of a better phrase, on your person until a suitable host is found.”

Harris then reached out to pull Stiles by his shoulder away from the black goo, which did look like it was reaching out to the part of his jacket that was brushing the table. “So please, don't get close to it.”

Stiles let out a nervous breath and nodded. “Good to know.” Jackson rolled his eyes at the antics but seemed smart enough to not get close to the table either.

Harris gave him a fake smile before moving onto another known fact about the infection, while Stiles and Jackson took their seats. Stiles never saw the infection in person. It was interesting to see how it looked like a giant glob of slime. Then again, it probably came in many different shapes and sizes. 

He wondered if his dad had ever seen it before. Probably. Even though the general of the sectors police force doesn’t usually go to the surface, there's been enough sector breaches that his father has been to that he probably caught a glimpse of it. Stiles made a mental note to ask his dad about it later.

The rest of the class period was spent with Harris wrapping up all the facts he could cram into the short amount of time, but ultimately the bell rang signaling the end of the period.

“I want you all to remember what I told you today. There will be a quiz tomorrow on this subject,” Harris called out, and seemed to revel in the groans that the class produced at the idea of a quiz on the second day of school.

Stiles stood up and got ready to leave. He already knew Harris wasn’t one to mess around. He was cramming his things in his bag when Jackson shoved by and bumped into him, making him drop his notebook onto the floor. “Dude! What the hell?”

“Next time, don't sit in my seat, dumbass,” Jackson sneered, grinning as he walked by.

“Next time, get here sooner!” Stiles called out after him with a shake of his head. “Dick.” He sighed and reached down to pick up his notebook and finished collecting his things. 

He made it out of the room along with everyone else but instead of heading straight to his next class, he decided to head to the bathroom first. He needed a quick piss and wanted to take a second to unravel his thoughts. Despite how much he disliked Harris, his class actually taught a lot.

Weaving his way through the crowd, Stiles finally made it to one of the many bathrooms in the school. Entering the not-so-clean lavatory, he looked around to see if there was anybody else there. Nope. Looks like everybody wanted to head straight to class. Taking up a urinal, Stiles relieved himself then went to wash his hands. After that, he opened his bag and pulled out his notebook so he could skim through it quickly. 

He wasn't one to forget things fast, but it never hurt to refresh his brain just in case.

Just when he was skimming over the part where pets weren’t allowed in Omega Sector, the door to the bathroom opened and someone walked in. Glancing into the mirror, Stiles saw a tall, dark-haired boy with broad shoulders, full eyebrows and defined jawline.

Attractive, Stiles thought, but he didn't pay him any mind as he went back to his notes. It was a bathroom. Nobody goes into a bathroom and expects to get stared at as they went to take a leak.

Finishing up with his notes, Stiles put his notebook back in his bag, slung it over his shoulder, and headed towards the exit. The boy that walked in gave him a brief nod before heading towards the sinks.

Stiles gave a slight wave but said nothing. He just headed for the—

*BEEP… BEEP*

Immediately, a deafening alarm starts blaring from the bolted speaker in the bathroom ceiling. Stiles threw his hands up to cover his ears from the piercing sound. The small confines of the bathroom amplified the alarm, making it sound sharper.

“Attention, all students and faculty. This is an urgent announcement. The school is on immediate lockdown, in accordance with protocol 6-19. I repeat, the school is in immediate lockdown. Teachers, please ensure the safety of your students as no doors will be able to open at this time. We will update you with further instructions soon,” a booming voice said over the speaker.

Despite what was said, Stiles still reached for the door handle but sure enough, it wouldn’t budge. His nerves started messing with his heartrate once he realized what protocol 6-19 was and why the school needed to go into lockdown.

There was a sector breach.

Stiles turned back around, the bathrooms only other occupant looking at him with furrowed brows. “What's protocol 6-19?” He asked with a deep voice.

“It's a… a sector breach,” Stiles answered numbly. His mind started running with all the possibilities about what that could mean. Where was the breach? Was it near the school? Was it near his home? Was his dad involved? Where was Scott?

With that thought, Stiles pulled out his phone to text Scott, but cursed once he saw that he had no service. He couldn’t even reach out for his best friend to make sure he was okay. In case his dad needed to get to him, he couldn’t. There was no contact. No help.

“You're not getting any bars either, huh?” The boy asked with his own phone in his hands, typing away aggressively before shaking his head and pocketing the device.

Stiles shook his head but couldn’t stop the pounding in his ears. He leaned back against the bathroom door and started taking deep breaths to calm himself. Now was not the time to go into panic mode. He closed his eyes and let his head rest against the cool wood. Think happy thoughts. Think happy thoughts.

“Uh, are you okay?” Stiles heard the boy ask. “You look kind of pale.”

Stiles swallowed but felt his mouth drying up. “I-I’m fine. I just… need a second.” 

“If you're worried about what's going on, you shouldn't be. Everything's going to be okay. If it was really serious, they wouldn’t have locked the doors.”

Stiles opened his eyes and looked at the boy, who was now leaning against the wall with his arms crossed like nothing bad was happening. “Huh?”

The boy shrugged. “Think about it. Sure, a sector breach is bad, but if it was really bad, they would’ve evacuated us. You think a few locked doors are going to stop an Other from getting in and dragging us away? Exactly. We’re fine. The breach is probably miles away from us. They just wanted to be careful.”

Stiles wanted to argue with that logic. He really did… but the boy was right. Stiles remembered the protocols that his dad had taught him, and in them, evacuation in extreme emergency was one of them. After taking a few more deep breaths, and thinking about it some more, he agreed. It's probably not that bad. He just needed to make his heart realize that and stop beating a mile a minute.

Stiles slid down to the floor with his back to the door. “Thanks. That was so not cool of me.” He’s dealt with sector breaches before. It's just this time, he was alone. No dad. No Scott. He didn’t know what to do.

The boy just chuckled and shook his head. “No worries. I have a younger sister. She gets  nervous about this stuff too. If you want, we can keep talking to help you calm down.”

“Talking? Yea, talking works. Conversation? Amazing. Silence? Bad.” Stiles continued to take deep breaths as he closed his eyes and let his head rest against the wood once more.

“Okay, for starters, what's your name?”

“Stiles. And you?”

“Derek. Hale.”

“Hale?” Stiles furrowed his brow but didn’t open his eyes. “You’re Laura’s brother?”

“Yup. She's my older sister. I have another sister, Cora, and a cousin, Malia. You probably haven’t heard of them though.”

He was right. Stiles had never heard of either of them. The only reason why he knew Laura was because of the orientation. If it wasn’t for that, she would’ve just been another name in the wind.

“Big family then, huh?”

“Eh, not really. It's just us, and my uncle at home. The rest of my family died in the first and second wave.”

Stiles finally opened his eyes and looked over at Derek, his gaze fixed on the floor. “Im sorry to hear that. My mom died during the second wave.”

Derek let out a breath before looking at him with a small smile. “Seems like we got something in common then.”

“Yea. I guess so.”

“Anyways, so I'm guessing you still have your dad?” Derek continued with a happier tone. “Thats good to hear.”

Stiles scratched his head and huffed nervously. “Yea, this is kind of embarrassing but my dad is the general of this sector. You've probably seen him on tv or heard him over the stations. General Stilinski.”

Derek looked at him with raised eyebrows. “What? No way. That's so cool, why would that be embarrassing? I wish my uncle was part of the sector's police squad. Instead, he just works for ALIE.”

“Its embarrassing because of what just happened a few seconds ago.” Stiles sighed and looked down at his hands. “My dad was so worried that anything could happen to me at school, and I tried to act tough about it but the truth is… I'm worried about him too. Since he's the captain of the police force, that means he's always on the front lines. He's probably at the sector breach right now, taking care of the Others.” His voice hitched slightly. “And here I am almost having a panic attack over a locked door and no signal.”

Even from a young age, his dad had been training him to handle tough situations. This was just embarrassing. Every time he wakes up, he’s not sure if his dad is going to be right there waiting for him. After what happened to his mom, Stiles has always been on edge when it comes to his dad. Too overprotective but too proud to show it.

“I think you're doing alright,” Derek offered from his place by the sinks. “I mean, I'm worried about my sisters too. And my uncle. And my cousin. I'm worried everyday for them. I'm practically shaking just thinking about what could happen.”

“But you don’t look like it. That's the difference between us.”

“Just because you show your emotions, doesn’t mean it’s a bad thing. Showing that you're scared or worried, if anything, that means you're stronger than me.”

Stiles scoffed. “Dont patronize me,” he said as he glanced up but the look Derek was giving him made him pause. Stiles only saw sincerity in his eyes. 

“Im serious, Stiles. I envy you.” Derek shrugged before reaching up to scratch his head. “To be honest, I—“

*BEEP… BEEP*

“Attention, all students and faculty. This is an urgent announcement. The previous lockdown has been removed and all doors are now able to be opened. I repeat, the previous lockdown has now been removed. Please return to regularly scheduled activities. There is now a curfew in place, effective immediately. Students without any after school activities are to report to their housing pods until further notice. That is all, thank you.”

Stiles heard a click from behind him, no doubt the door being unlocked, while Derek pushed off the wall with a small grunt. “Well, guess that’s over. And see? You're not nervous anymore.” Derek gave him a smile.

Stiles huffed as he stood and brushed off his pants. He made a mental note to wash his jeans once he got home. The bathroom floor couldn’t be clean. “Thanks. I promise I'm way better at handling world-ending situations. I was just caught off guard.”

Derek chuckled as he headed for the door and Stiles stepped to the side so he could open it. “Ill keep that in mind in case anything happens.” Derek gave him a once-over and from this distance, Stiles saw something strange in his eyes. “See you around, Stiles.”

He watched Derek leave and felt something odd in his chest. “Bye… Derek.”

“Oh my god, I'm so glad to see you. I didn’t know what happened and then when I didn’t have service I was freaking out—“ 

Stiles stopped Scott from speaking by pushing him away, since the teen latched onto him the moment they sat down at their lunch table in the back. “Dude, come on. Eat first, reminisce about not dying later.” Stiles was at least happy to see that he wasn't the only one freaking out about the lockdown.

“What do you think happened? I mean… is your dad okay?” Scott asked once he seemed to calm down.

Stiles shrugged and tried to pass off as nonchalant but felt like he was failing. “I don't know. I texted him the moment I could, but he didn’t respond. I'm guessing he’s still dealing with the breach.”

“Dang, and I was just coming over here to ask the same thing.” Stiles looked up just as Derek sat down next to him with his own tray of the usual fake, bioengineered slop that the school cafeteria serves. “I was wondering if your dad told you anything about what happened.”

Stiles shrugged as he lifted his fork and stabbing it into his bio-veggies. “Nope. Nothing. It just happened about an hour ago though. I'd say give it some time.”

“Weird. My uncle texted my sister and told her that ALIE was already at the scene of the breach before the police even got there,” Derek added, brows drawn together.

Stiles furrowed his brow. “Why would ALIE already be at the breach before my dad? That doesn't make sense.” Why would a pharmaceutical company be at the breach site before the actual government? Definitely odd.

Derek shrugged. “I don't know. ALIE also deals with weapons and technology. Maybe they were there in support.”

Stiles narrowed his eyes slightly as he lifted his fork and took a bite out of his fake food. “Maybe…”

“Yo, dude. We usually sit over there. What are you doing over here with the nosebleeds?” Jackson came over to Derek and nodded towards a separate table in the middle of the room.

Derek got up with his tray of food, eyes stuck on Stiles. “Just, let me know if your dad tells you anything, okay?”

Stiles nodded and lifted his fork in a salute. “Sure will.”

Jackson shot him a flat, irritated look as he and Derek passed by. “Stilinski.”

“Whittemore,” Stiles threw at him before returning to his food. He wasn’t going to let Jackson’s negative air permeate his delicious, custom made, government-engineered lunch.

It was quiet at the table for a few seconds before Scott reached over and smacked him on the arm, making him spill a few of his veggies. “Ow, dude? What the fuck?”

“Why didn’t you tell me you were friends with Derek and Jackson? Specifically, Jackson!” Scott whisper-yelled. “You know he’s the captain of the lacrosse team!”

“Uh, first off, I'm not friends with Jackson. He’s a dick, and a tool and I told you so.” Stiles wagged his fork at Scott in emphasis. “We just have the same class together. Meaning, I wouldn't even call Derek and I friends. We just bonded over our mutual trauma during the lockdown. No biggie.”

Scott gave him a dry look. “That doesn’t change the fact that you could put in a good word for me with Jackson. Try and tell him to let me on the team! I could be a really good fit.”

“Sure, I'll make sure to slide that in the next time Jackson and I are braiding each other's hair, doing jumping jacks, and blowing bubblegum.” Stiles shook his head and went back to devouring his food.

Scott reached over and hit him in the arm again. “Stiles! I'm serious! Please!”

Stiles gave his best friend a scowl for a few seconds, hoping he’d drop it but Scott just gave him the puppy dog eyes in return. Stiles sighed. “Ugh, fine. I'll see what I can do.”

Scott’s face lit up instantly. “Thank you. You're the best.”

“Tell me something I don't know.”

The rest of the day went by fairly smoothly. Stiles hadn’t seen Derek or Jackson, thankfully Jackson, the rest of the day. He wasn’t sure if he was bummed out or what but walking out of school with Scott felt a little less… energetic? He wasn’t sure and he wasn’t going to bring it up either. Stiles just chocked it up to first day blues.

When he and Scott finally made it to their housing pods, Stiles waved a goodbye before entering his own and hoped to see his dad waiting for him… but he should’ve known better. 

He walked into the empty pod and looked around. There was no note or a sign from his dad. Considering Stiles still hadn’t gotten a text back, he was starting to worry again. It's been hours since the sector breach but there's been no news. Well, no news from his dad. Maybe there was something else.

Stiles walked over to the house laptop and flipped it open. After the first wave knocked out all communication and electronics, the government had to recreate the internet from scratch. They succeeded for the most part, the only issue being that each sector had its own internet frequency in case the Others attempt to access it. Separating the frequencies is an attempt to protect the population's data, but that also means communicating between sectors is virtually impossible if you're a regular citizen.

For an everyday person, it worked out just fine. People rarely travel between sectors, so going online and only having to worry about what's happening in your own sector is comforting. Some didn’t like this, but there wasn’t really anything anybody could do about the government's decision.

Stiles pressed a few buttons and opened up the sector’s news page. There were a bunch of articles and comments about the sector breach. Concerned parents, scared teens, and a few officials answering questions… but nothing about his dad.

He kept scrolling for a few minutes before sighing and closing the computer. “Well that was a bust.” The only thing he could find out was where the breach was. On the south side of the sector, which was far. The direct opposite of the school, closer to Beacon Valley.

Stiles bounced his knee as he thought about what to do… but it was kind of a no-brainer. His mind wasn’t going to let him relax until he found out what was happening. Not with his dad right in the middle of it.

He put the laptop back on top of the kitchen counter before moving towards the exit. He made his way to the other side of the corridor and knocked on the door. His leg bounced as he waited for a reply. His anxiety not letting him rest.

Scott opened the door with a confused look. “Stiles? What's up?”

“Scott, is your mom home?” Stiles looked around Scott to see into his home.

“Uh, no. She's still at the lab. Why? What's going on?”

“Perfect. I need you to come with me to the south side,” Stiles nodded down the corridor, towards the subway station. “There’s something I need to check out.”

Scott stepped out of his pod, his confused look unchanging. “Okay, and what do you need to check out all the way over there? You do know there’s a curfew, right? We’re not supposed to leave our pods after school.”

“The sector breach was on the south side. So that's where my dad is. I need to make sure he’s okay.” Stiles was walking for a few seconds until he noticed he was walking alone. He turned around and saw Scott staring at him like he’d gone insane, which, fair.

“Are you crazy? Why would we go towards the breach?”

“Did you miss the part where I said I need to make sure my dad is okay? He's not answering his phone and there’s nothing on the net about him. You know I can't sit still until I make sure.” Stiles crossed his arms and pouted. “Please? I don't want to go alone.”

Scott sighed after a few seconds before joining him. “If we get kidnapped by Others and killed, I'm blaming you,” his best friend grumbled.

Stiles clapped him on the shoulder as they started walking. “Ill accept that.”

As it turns out, a curfew really meant curfew.

Usually, when Stiles snuck out, he never headed out too far. Even with his dad, he’s never been as far as Beacon Valley. He didn’t realize trying to get to the south side, through a curfew no less, was going to be this hard.

He and Scott at least made it past the sector plaza, which was in the middle of the sector and where most people hung out. Because of the breach and curfew, the usually busy social area is now barren. Only a few people, mainly adults trying to get from one place to another. No kids at all. When a few adults looked their way, Stiles hurried along as fast as he could. He didn’t want to risk taking the train and end up getting nabbed by the sector police and sent back home. So they had to get to the south side the old fashioned way.

Which they did, after an eternity, only to be stopped at a barricade.

He and Scott made it to the entrance to the south side tunnel, but it was blocked off by barricades and grim-faced military men with heavy guns. There were already a few people at the barricade, no doubt trying to find out what was going on just like he was. There was even a girl there, she looked to be around his age, so Stiles stepped up next to her, in an attempt to see around the barricade. “Is there any news on what's going on?” he asked her.

The girl shook her head, her brown curls moving with each motion. “No, and they won't let me through even though I live down there. I'm just looking for my… dad!”

“Dad!” Stiles called out at the same time as the girl. Walking towards the barricade was his dad and another man he’d never seen before. Upon hearing their names, the two men paused their conversation and looked up.

“Stiles? What are you doing here? This is a restricted area!” His dad barked, moving past his men and the barricade.

“Allison? Honey, why aren’t you with your aunt? What are you doing here?” The man who had been walking with Stiles’ dad moved towards the girl, Allison apparently. “It's too dangerous for you to be here.”

“If it's dangerous for me then it's dangerous for you too,” Allison responded. “Kate didn’t come to pick me up so I got worried.”

Stiles turned to his dad, motioning past the barricade. “I got worried about you. You didn’t answer your phone all day and nobody on the net said anything about the captain of the police force. You know I can't just sit at home.” He glanced at Scott, who was giving Allison a weird look, before crossing his arms defensively. “And yes, I brought Scott. Don't tell his mom.”

“Please don’t. She’ll kill me,” Scott added.

His dad sighed as he pinched the bridge of his nose. “Stiles, son, you can’t just disobey a curfew and head out whenever you please. I thought we talked about this?”

“First off, rules are meant to be broken. And second, technically, the only kids who could bypass the curfew are those with afterschool activities and technically, I'd define this little excursion as an afterschool activity.”

His dad fixed him with a look, clearly not finding the antics funny. “Stiles. Go home. Now. That's an order.”

“Not until you tell me what's going on! You had me worried, dad!” Stiles whined.

Before his dad could respond, the man from earlier walked up to them. “Noah, sorry to interrupt but im going to head out. I already told my daughter what happened and im going to check out the pod you suggested. I'll be in touch.”

Stiles’ dad nodded. “Understood, Argent. I'm going to take my delinquent of a son home and make sure he understands what a curfew entails.” He turned and fixed another look at Stiles, who was offended.

Stiles scoffed and threw a hand up. “I swear, you sneak out of the house one time during a government issued curfew and now you're categorized as a delinquent. Unbelievable.”

The ride home was full of Stiles battering his dad with questions and his dad giving nothing. Even when they got home, he didn’t give any answers. Even the day after, zero intel.

The day after that? Nada. Zilch. The sound of a tumbleweed could be heard with how quiet his dad was being.

Even when Friday came around, and the curfew was finally lifted, Stiles was none the wiser on what the hell happened on Monday. Which made him extra cranky when he and Scott got off the train.

“Whats got you in a bad mood?” Scott asked as they walked through the school hallway.

“My dad. He didn’t let anything slip about what happened during the sector breach.” Stiles threw his arms up. “He even went as far as to change the password to his office! Like, who does that? Someone who hates their kid, that's who.”

Thankfully, at least a few people on the net got their hands on some intel and it turns out the sector breach happened right on top of the residential area in the south side. Which is strange considering the housing pods are supposed to be extra fortified, so for the Others to not only find where it is, but to also break in? That’s not just insane, that’s horror movie logic.

“You know, I did see my dad talking to that Argent guy a few times during the week.” Stiles nodded as he thought about it. “He definitely had something to do with it. Or he’s just really into ominous office conversations. Either way, still shady.

“Was Allison there?” Scott asked, and Stiles rolled his eyes.

“I don’t know, Scott. She wasn’t there the other ten times you asked, and she wasn’t this time. Maybe if you ask one more time then she’ll magically appear and—“

Stiles stopped talking, something he doesn’t usually do, but this time was different only because Allison did in fact, magically appear. She turned the corner they were turning and the three of them almost bumped into each other. The brunette smiled at them once she realized who they were. “Oh! Stiles? And—“ she looked at Scott and pointed at him, “Scott, right? My dad told me you guys went to this school. I was hoping to run into you.”

“You were?” Scott said with a golden retriever smile.

Stiles paid him no mind and took the lead. “What are you doing here? I remember you said you went to Beacon Valley. That's all the way across the sector.” The few times he saw his dad talking to Argent, Allison had also been there. It was rare that she was, but Stiles attempted to make friends and get some intel from her. Funny enough, she was doing the same thing so the two of them just ended up not knowing anything.

“Yea, I was, but after the breach my dad moved us to the north side. I think we’re in the same tunnel as you guys, actually.”

“Really? So that makes us neighbors now. Perfect in case one of us needs to sneak out and cause havoc in the sector. We can be each other's alibi.”

Allison laughed, showing off her dimples. “Deal. You cover me and I'll cover you.”

Stiles actually made it through first period without an incident. He sat in the same seat as normal, and just like every other day that week, Jackson attempted to bully him out of it just for him to have to sit next to him and they both ended up suffering the entire class because of it. The only reason why Stiles doesn’t move to another seat is because he really liked the seat he chose… plus he was very spiteful and he’d be damned if he let Jackson have the satisfaction of forcing him to move.

So, he just toughed it out.

Walking out of the Biology classroom, he was nose deep in his book when he heard somebody calling down the hall. “Jackson! Come meet my new friend!”

“Move it, Stilinski,” Jackson sneered, shoulder-checking him and heading towards whoever called out to him. 

Stiles looked up from his book and flipped him off. Jackson headed towards a strawberry-blonde bombshell… who was walking with Allison like they were the bestest of friends. Just great.

“Stiles?” Allison questioned before he could duck behind a locker. “I didn’t know you and Jackson were friends?”

Jackson laughed as he threw his arm around the other girl. “Me and Stilinski? Friends? That's funny. I can see why Lydia likes you now. You have jokes.”

“No, I like her because of her amazing fashion sense,” the girl, Lydia, patted Jackson’s chest. “She was telling me how her aunt has connections in the Gamma Sector and she totally lets Allison pick out whatever clothes she wants. So, now she's my new best friend.”

“Its more like my aunt has a connect in the Gamma Sector and that's where she gets her clothes. Sometimes, she asks for my size instead,” Allison clarified with a shrug.

Jackson nodded. “Well, if Lydia likes you, then I'm cool with it. I'm Jackson.”

“Allison,” Allison responded before turning to Stiles. “And if you're not friends with him, then why were you walking with him, Stiles?”

“Because I am the thorn in his side. The rash that won't go away. The bitter to his sweet, and there's nothing he can do about it,” Stiles responded with a shit eating grin.

“Fuck you, Stinlinski. Die slow.”

“After you. I insist.”

“Okay well, I want to get to my next class,” Lydia interrupted with a flip of her hair, clearly done with the antics. “Allison, you coming?”

“Yea, ill be there.” Allison turned to give Stiles a smile over her should as she walked away. “Ill see you at lunch?”

Stiles waved her off. “Yea, go have fun with your shiny new friends. I’ll be here. Alone. It’s totally fine.”

“So? Did you ask him?” Scott asked as they sat down at their lunch table.

Stiles was scowling down at his tray. Why did the school decide to have bio-meatloaf today? That’s just disgusting. “Did I ask who about what now?”

“Stiles! Did you ask Jackson about me joining the team? The homecoming scrimmage is tonight.”

Stiles picked at his loaf with hatred in his eyes. “Oh… Sorry, no. I totally forgot about that.” Scott reached over and pinched him in the arm, which made Stiles finally look up at him. “Ow! Dude, what the fuck?”

“Can you do it now?” Scott whined with his puppy dog eyes. “If I don’t try out before the scrimmage then I won’t get to play the rest of the season! The school is strict with the rules.”

Stiles sighed before looking around the lunch room. As fate would have it, Derek, Jackson, Lydia, and Allison were walking by their table at that time. It’s almost like Scott knew that and decided to pinch him just at the right moment. Stiles waited until Derek was close enough to notice him before waving him down. The teen paused in his conversation with Jackson and headed over.

“Uh, what are you doing?” Scott whispered once Stiles lowered his hand.

“You literally just told me to do it now. This is now.”

“I mean, yea, but not in front of everyone. That’s embarrassing!”

Stiles gave him a look. “And what do you think is going to happen at practice when your asthma knocks you on your ass? Exactly. Embarrassing. Now hush and let me work my magic. You just worry about what you're going to do.” He stopped whispering once Derek and the others joined them.

“Hey, Stiles. I haven’t seen you in a while. How you been?” Derek asked, setting his tray down while Jackson, Lydia, and Allison found their own seats. Lydia looked around with distaste, like sitting at that exact table was allergic to her. Allison just politely sat next to Scott, who gave her a dumb smile. 

“I’ve been good. Peaches and cream. I actually called you over here because I wanted to ask Jackson something.” Stiles turned to the teen, who had a spoonful of loaf in his mouth.

Jackson dropped his spoon and sent him an annoyed look. “What do you want? I don’t like you.”

“I don’t like you either, but Scotty here—“ Stiles patted Scott’s shoulder, “wants to join the lacrosse team. Since you're the captain I was hoping you could squeeze him in.”

Jackson looked around the table before falling into a fit of hysterics. Stiles thought that was rude since he hadn’t said a joke, but he just let Jackson finish. “Oh, you're funny, Stilinski.” The teen wiped his eyes. “Don’t ask me any more questions from now on. I don’t need to laugh anymore.”

Stiles gave him a dry look. “I’m serious. You're telling me you don’t have a single open space? Scott has been dreaming of joining the team since he was in diapers. He’s actually really good! Tell him, Scott.” Stiles turned to his best friend, who was looking at Jackson with wide eyes.

“Uh… I mean, I’m okay—“

“Listen, Scott? That’s your name?” Jackson interrupted and Scott nodded sheepishly. “Even if I liked you enough to try and slip you in, and if I had a severe brain injury that makes me delusional enough to consider the idea, the scrimmage is tonight. It would just be bad form to add a brand new teammate who’s probably never even touched a lacrosse stick into the team last minute. Sorry, not sorry.”

Stiles opened his mouth to try and argue because frankly, he didn’t like how Jackson was talking to Scott. When Jackson gives him attitude, he can handle it. Even give some attitude back, but Jackson does it to Scott? That’s a whole nother story.

Surprisingly though, he didn’t have to. Derek spoke up for him. “Come on, Jackson. Cut him some slack. Don’t you have that one open spot because Jake is sick? I thought you were looking for somebody to fill the spot.”

Jackson gave him a dry look. “I wanted you or Boyd to fill the spot. Not some random.”

“Whether it’s me, or Boyd, or Scott, I’m sure you’ll still win. Let Scott come to practice tonight, let him at least show you what he could do. Make your decision then,” Derek reasoned and Stiles never had been so grateful for someone else before.

Jackson looked to be mulling over those words for a few seconds before sighing loudly and turning to Scott. “Be at the field outside the gym at four. Don’t be late.”

Scott beamed. His smile was bigger than Stiles had ever seen it. “I’ll be there.”

Stiles turned to Derek and nudged his knee. “Thank you,” he mouthed.

Derek’s smile was quick, but warm. He nudged Stiles’ knee back. “Anytime.”

“I see you made it on time,” Derek said as Stiles climbed the bleachers towards him. 

Stiles shrugged before leaning against the railing. “I told you, Scott has been gunning for the team for a while. He wouldn’t miss this for the world, and I'm here for moral support.” 

Derek nodded approvingly. “Your a good friend. While Scott heads over to Jackson, let me introduce you to everyone else.” He motioned towards a group of people sitting a few rows up on the bleachers.

Stiles sent a quick glance to Scott, who was already making his way onto the field towards Jackson, before following Derek.

The “field” behind the gym was really just fake grass, bright spotlights, and tall walls of stone that encompassed the entire area. Stiles suspected that it was to allow some kind of normalcy in this strange time of being underground. He wondered how the fields look on the surface. Were they as small as this one? He felt a twinge in his chest at the fact that he probably will never see it for himself.

“Stiles, this is everyone,” Derek said as he motioned to the group of people that were sitting in the bleachers.

He pointed towards a tall, dark-skinned boy. “This is Boyd, his girlfriend Erica.” A petite blonde wrapped in leather next to him. “That’s Isaac, my sister Cora.” He nodded to a lanky boy with curls and the brunette next to him. “You already met Lydia and obviously you know Allison.” Lydia didn’t even glance in his direction. Too busy checking herself out in her mirror. Allison gave him a small wave which he returned.

Stiles waved at everyone as a whole. “Hey guys.”

Cora gave him a once over, looking shockingly like Derek. “Stiles? Stilinski? Your dad’s the general?”

“Uh, yea. How did you know?” Stiles questioned. His dad was well-known, but most people didn’t put two and two together to see that Stiles was his son.

“Cora wants to join the force when she gets older,” Derek clarified. “She would do it right now if it wasn't for the age limit.”

Cora shrugged as she crossed her arms. “In these times, information is important. It's good to have it.”

Stiles nodded. “Noted.”

“We have a few more friends but they’re showing up later for the scrimmage,” Derek continued before turning to take a seat. “Why don't you hang with us while we wait? It's only an hour or two.”

Stiles took one look at the others just lounging around, talking amongst themselves, before shrugging and taking a seat next to Derek. He was already planning on staying for Scott, he might as well hang with Derek in the meantime. Something about the idea was appealing to him anyways. Especially if Scott didn’t make the team. He’d rather lay around and relax beforehand so he had enough energy to deal with a sulking Scott McCall afterwards.

Surprisingly, the time flew by. Before he knew it, Scott was running over, grinning from ear-to-ear to inform them that he did in fact make the team. Stiles was shocked but happy for him. While Scott would probably just sit on the bench the whole time, a step forward was still a step forward.

It wasn’t until thirty minutes before the game, and the bleachers were slowly filling up, that a few more people joined their little group.

Danny, a tan-skinned boy who was also Jackson’s best friend, came by and promptly sat down with Lydia and Allison. A little later, Malia, Derek's cousin, showed up with Derek's other sister, Laura.

Laura sent a quick wave to everyone before making a beeline to Derek. “Uh, Der? I gotta talk to you real quick. Alone.”

Derek furrowed his brow before getting up from his seat. “Okay? What's going on?”

“Ill tell you in a sec. Come on.” Laura grabbed Derek by the arm and dragged him down the bleachers a few feet before getting into a hushed discussion.

Stiles turned the other way and focused his attention to the field.

This whole time he was talking to Derek, now that his only form of entertainment was gone, he didn’t really know what to do. On the other side, Lydia was still talking to Danny and Allison, something about the latest celebrity out of Gamma Sector. Past that, Isaac, Cora, and Malia were arguing about the game and what the outcome would be. Isaac and Cora for Beacon Hills while Malia sided with Valley.

Next to them, Stiles couldn’t make out what Erica and Boyd were saying, not that it mattered. He didn’t feel comfortable engaging with any of the conversations that were happening. The game was starting soon so he would just—

“Stiles? Can you come over here really quick?” Derek called out, cutting clean through his thoughts.

Stiles looked around for a few seconds, half expecting to see someone else with his name, before getting up from his seat and making his way down the steps to stand in front of Laura and Derek. “What's up?”

Derek turned to Laura, giving a small nod. “Tell him what you told me. It’s okay, we can trust him. His dad is General Stilinski.”

Laura looked at Stiles with surprise etched into her features. “Oh, well this might be a little awkward. My uncle, who works for ALIE, was on the phone about the breach that happened on Monday. It kind of had to do with your dad.”

Stiles furrowed his brow. “My dad? What does he have to do with anything?” His arms crossed and a defensive edge entered his voice. 

“Supposedly, the Others were looking for a piece of intel, something that had to do with ALIE and the government. I guess they were tipped off about a certain location and that's where the breach happened. They were told that whatever they were looking for, it was there,” Laura explained as she crossed her arms. “Clearly they didn’t find what they were looking for and it cost them. There were casualties on both sides.”

Stiles mulled over what was said before shaking his head. “That doesn’t make any sense though. The breach happened right where Allison used to live. I heard her dad and mine talking about it the other day. That's why they moved.”

The three of them turned to look at Allison, who was still laughing away with Lydia and Danny. “Maybe whatever was in her house, was what the Others wanted,” Laura said with a shrug. “Which is probably why your dad was talking to hers. Maybe the intel they wanted was important enough that they risked a breach.”

“Maybe…” Stiles bit his lip. “Do you think we should tell Allison?”

“Tell her what? That the Others broke into her home because of something her dad was working on and they might come back for seconds?” Derek questioned with a shake of his head. “No. We can't tell her, not yet, anyway. It’ll just make her worry. Stiles, can you try and find out more about what's going on?”

Stiles sighed and shrugged. “I can try but my dad has been pretty tight-lipped about it. I'll see what I can do and let you know.”

Derek gave him a small smile. “Thanks. I appreciate it.”

The first and second quarter went by in a flash. Stiles was on his feet the entire time, cheering on the team. Scott wasn’t on the field, sadly, but he was on the bench. Which is a step forward! Stiles just knew that Scott was happy to have any participation at all and he was happy for him.

It was towards the end of half time, when the cheer squad was leaving the field and the players were returning, that Stiles finally decided to take his seat. “Wow. I didn’t know it could get like this.”

Derek tilted his head, eyebrows pulled together. “What do you mean? You’ve never been to a lacrosse game?”

Stiles shook his head sheepishly. “I never had a reason to. I've always wanted to but last year, Scott and I really kept to ourselves. We never did anything like this. To be honest, I think my dad was glad. Being at home meant Iwasn’t out terrorizing the locals.”

Derek huffed and nodded like he understood. “I get that. That’s probably why I never saw you or Scott until this week, even though you two are sophomores.”

“You're a junior, right? So that means next year is your last? What are you going to do after high school? Wing it and hope for the best?”

Derek flicked his eyebrows. “My options are kind of limited. It's either, go into the police force with Cora and Laura, or become a janitor and mop floors for a living.”

Stiles tilted his head. As much as he didn’t like it, Derek was right. With how things are going nowadays, they might not even make it to senior year. “I heard Jackson talking to one of his buddies about how he wanted to go model in the Alpha Sector. Maybe you could join him.”

Derek snorted. “Oh yea? You think I got what it takes to be a model?” He lifted up his arms and flexed his biceps. “I got the body, I don't know about the face though.”

Stiles rolled his eyes. He saw the bait for what it was and wasn’t about to hand Derek an easy compliment. “On second thought, mopping floors for a living sounds more in your lane. Stick to what you're good at.”

Derek laughed just as Coach Finstock blew his whistle and the third quarter started. Stiles craned his neck to see, since he wasn’t standing anymore, but was shocked to see a certain numbered jersey jog out onto the field. “Is that?… Is that Scott’s number?”

Derek was looking at the field with wide eyes. “I think so. I guess he got substituted in.”

Stiles was in awe before standing up and cupping his hands over his mouth. “Go, Scott!” He yelled. Scott clearly heard him if the wave he got in return was anything to go by.

Stiles smiled as he watched his best friend live out his dream—

*Ring… Ring*

Stiles padded his pocket absentmindedly and pulled out his phone. With his eyes still on the field, he brought his phone to his ear and answered the call. “Hello?”

“Stiles?! Where are you?!”

Stiles furrowed his brow at his dads tone before finally coming down to earth and tearing his eyes away from the field. “Uh, I'm at the lacrosse game I told you about. Why? What's going on?”

“Stiles! You need to get home now! Something… happening… I don't know when… get home!”

Stiles plugged his free ear with his finger so he could hear better before turning around. “Dad? I can't hear you. You're breaking up. What are you saying?” Derek looked at him with a confused look.

“Get home… something is… a wave!”

Stiles looked at Derek with wide eyes just as the phone call ended. “Dad? Dad!” He pulled his phone away from his ear and looked at the screen. There’s no service. Stiles looked back up at Derek, who stood up from his seat.

“What happened?”

“I, uh… I don't know,” Stiles said just as the players on the field took their positions. “My dad was trying to tell me something. He told me to go home, I think. He said something was happening but the call ended. I don't have any service.”

Derek’s confusion hardened into worry. He pulled out his own phone and tapped away at his screen. “I don't have any service either.” He looked up sharply. “Whats going on, Stiles?”

Stiles shook his head, pivoting back towards the field just as the ref blew the whistle for the fourth quarter. It was odd seeing everyone around him burst into cheers and excitement while his heart was racing for a different reason. Just as a player from Beacon Hills scooped up the ball and started down the field, something strange happened. It was like… a giant wave of air, shimmering like heat on asphalt, was quickly making its way across the stadium from the other end. Stiles took an unsteady step back and looked around again. It's like nobody else was noticing it. Or at least, they were too engrossed in the game to realize that a tidal wave of something was sweeping across the area. 

Stiles reached out for Derek. “Derek? Do you see that?” He pointed to the invisible wall that moved ever closer. It swept over the defending goalie and was closing in on the rest of the lacrosse players.

Derek followed his gesture with confusion in his eyes. “See what? There's nothing there.”

Stiles swallowed nervously just as the wall reached the bleachers and hit him. He sucked in a breath in shock at the feeling that entered his body. It was like his entire frame, from head to toe, was hit with a thousand volts of electricity and then sucked of its energy all at the same time. Stiles stumbled forward, leaning against the railing in front of him, and went to ask Derek what the fuck was happening but then stopped.

He looked over at all the people around him and saw some of them doubled over in pain, the bystanders next to them looking around in fear. Stiles turned to the field of lacrosse players and saw a few of them laying on the ground, unconscious as well. Even Scott’s number was on the floor, an unmoving heap. The ref and Coach Finstock frantically making their way onto the field to find out the cause. Whatever was happening to him, it was happening to a good amount of people in the stadium. If he had to guess, it was happening to a lot of people in the sector. 

“Derek?” Stiles said weakly, falling to his knees. His body felt like a bag of sand and his bones were jelly. 

“Sti—“ Derek started, reaching out towards him, but it was cut off. Derek was leaning against the bleacher they were just sirting against, before his eyes rolled back and he slumped to the floor. Along with the most of his friends. Every single one of them was lying in some position on the floor. The only two people who weren’t were Danny and Allison. The two of them frantically looking around, like they were scared and didn’t know what was happening.

Stiles didn’t blame them.

The energy in the stadium was drained in an instant. Replaced with cries of confusion and fear. Everyone looking for answers and the nearest exit. 

That's when it clicked in Stiles’ mind what his dad was trying to tell him.

The Others released another wave. A third wave… and this one was unlike any of the others before it.

Stiles prayed to whoever was listening that his dad was safe as he closed his eyes and crumpled to the floor. He couldn’t lose another parent to a wave. Not again…

Chapter Text

*Beep… Beep*

Stiles groaned lightly as he moved his head from side to side. It felt like his brain was spilling out through his ears and his body was being weighed down from all sides. Despite his pain, he squinted his eyes open. He stared confusedly at an unfamiliar milky white ceiling. The smell of chemicals and latex hitting his nose. 

*Beep… Beep*

“Ugh…” He closed his eyes again. Whatever the hell that beeping was, everytime it bounced of the walls it felt like somebody was throwing a metal ball at his skull.

“Stiles? Are you awake?”

The voice was familiar enough that it made him gather enough strength to open his eyes again. Stiles turned slightly and saw a woman with brown curls and a medical uniform standing by his bed. It was Melissa, Scott’s mom. “Mama M… hi.” His mouth felt like sandpaper and if his voice sounded terrible to his own ears, he could only imagine how it sounded to Melissa.

“Hi, Stiles.” Melissa smiled at him but there was a hint of something else in her eyes. Like she was sad about something. “I know you're finally awake but you should probably get some more rest. I’ll go contact your dad and tell him you're active.” She reached out and placed a warm hand on his shoulder. “I’m glad you're okay.”

Stiles could only manage a droopy smile before Melissa’s words to get more rest rung in his ears and he decided to take her up on that advice. Stiles only closed his eyes for a few moments but the next time he opened them, his dad was looking down at him. Worry etched into every part of his face. It was actually funny to see when he was wearing his military uniform. 

“Stiles? Son? Can you hear me?” His dad asked, placing a hand next to him like he was scared to touch him.

“Sir, yes sir.” Stiles would’ve done a salute if he had enough energy. Thankfully, he at least felt better than before. His head wasn’t getting destroyed by the loud beeping and it didn’t hurt to have his eyes open for more than five seconds. His body feeling weak was still a battle though.

His dad huffed wetly before reaching out for Stiles’ shoulder and squeezing slightly. “I thought I almost lost you. I was so worried.”

Stiles sucked in a breath at the pressure on his shoulder but still tried to smile. “You can’t get rid of me that easily.”

Just then, there was a sound like a sliding door was opening and closing and after a few moments, Melissa came back into view with a tablet in her hands. “I see he’s fully awake. How long has it been?”

“Just a few seconds,” Stiles’ dad answered. “I was told he’s been in and out of it all day. Is that correct?”

Melissa nodded as she walked up to a heart monitor next to the bed. “Everytime he woke up, his vitals would spike so we wanted him to keep resting until he could stay alert without that happening. It seems like now is that time.” 

Stiles trailed the wires of the monitor with his eyes and saw that it was hooked up to him. Oh, so that’s what that beeping sound was.

“But I don’t understand. He’s been under longer than all the others. What’s the difference? Why him?” Stiles’ dad asked.

Melissa shook her head sadly after finishing her checks. “I have no idea. You know as much as I do, maybe even more given your rank. Alan should be back in a few minutes. I’ll send him to you as soon as I can. Maybe he has more intel.”

“What’s going on?” Stiles questioned weakly.

The two adults glanced at him, clearly not sure on what to say, before his dad responded. “Why don’t you worry about getting better first. We can talk about what happened later.”

“I’ll leave you two then,” Melissa said, turning towards the door. “I need to put this in the system. I assume you’d want me to take my time with it?” She gave Stiles’ dad a look.

He gave one back. “As much time as you can.”

Melissa nodded before exiting. Stiles narrowed his eyes slightly. He didn’t like how in kahoots the two of them were. Trouble was definitely brewing in that department.

“Hey, kiddo? You okay?”

Stiles brought his attention back to his dad. “Well, I feel like I’m dying of multiple things right now. Thirst being the main one. You think you can get me some water?”

His dad nodded. “I’m on it. You just stay right there.” He sent him one last long look before moving to walk out of the room.

Once his dad left, Stiles attempted to sit up and winced at the dull pain in his muscles. Thankfully, it didn’t kill him though. Once he was in a more comfortable position, he looked around his room. He was in the one medical lab in the sector. An all-white room with frosted glass walls, basic sliding door, and a small table with various medical instruments laid out next to his bed. The only thing being, he’s never been in the one room he was currently in. Maybe it was a room for long term patients. That’s when his mind came up with a second question that made his heart quicken; how long had he been out?

He rattled his brain for an answer. The last thing he remembered was being at the lacrosse game. Scott was just substituted in. Stiles was standing next to Derek in the bleachers when his dad had called him.

Stiles furrowed his brow, trying to think back. He remembered his dad trying to tell him something but the call got disconnected for some reason. What was the reason?

Stiles felt his breathing coming out a little shallow. Looking through his memory, he saw something moving towards him across the lacrosse field. It was like an invisible wall that shimmered. It was like a…

“A wave…” Stiles whispered, the words tumbling out before he could process them. At that moment, his dad came back into the room, water bottle in hand.

“Stiles? Stiles! You need to calm down.” His dad moved right up to the bed and placed a hand on Stiles' shoulder. “Just breathe, okay? You're alright.”

Stiles didn’t even realize anything was wrong until the heart monitor that was connected to him started beeping faster than what seemed normal. His breathing came out in quick bursts and he gripped the sheets of his bed. “Dad? What happened?” He questioned in a voice that sounded too quiet for his liking.

His dad looked at him frantically. Looking very much a worried father and unlike the tough general that he was. “I can explain, okay? Just take a deep breath and calm down. Everything is going to be alright. Let me explain—“

“Actually, let me.” A new voice cut into the room, sharp and confident.

Both of them turned just as a strange person walked into the room. It was a man with dark skin, a shaved head, and a professional air around him. He walked into the room with a calculating gaze, like he was watching Stiles under a microscope.

Stiles’ dad seemed to recognize him because he stood a little taller and nodded slightly. “Deaton.”

Stiles just squinted at the stranger, Deaton supposedly, still disoriented and suspicious.

“General Stilinski," Deaton responded with a nod of his own. “It seems I've come at the right time.” He then turned his sights on Stiles, who was still silently freaking out. “Hello, Stiles. How are you?”

“Oh, you know. Just another day in paradise, lying here with no clue about what's happening.” Stiles tried to crack a joke but the tension he was feeling didn’t go away in the slightest.

His dad did not seem to appreciate the humor, but Deaton just smiled as he approached the bed and stood at the end. “As I said, let me explain and toss away your confusion. You were admitted to the medical lab Friday night. Do you know what day it is today?”

Stiles glanced at his dad, trying to gauge his reaction, before flicking his eyes back to Deaton. “Saturday?” It couldn’t have been more than a day or two by how he was feeling.

“No, it’s Friday… the week after.” Deaton eyed him slightly. “You were unconscious for a week, Stiles.”

The beeping of the heart monitor did not slow down and Stiles was starting to wonder if any alerts were popping up at Melissa’s station. “What?” He said, barely over a whisper.

“After the third wave, you and many others were rendered unconscious for specific amounts of time,” Deaton continued. “Actually, I say ‘many’ but if I were to give an exact estimate, I’d say only ten percent of the entire sector was affected by the wave. Which is a little over seven hundred people. I’m sure you're wondering about the specific times I mentioned?”

Stiles stayed quiet, but felt like he was yelling in his mind. He was asleep for a week! For what? Why?! That’s basically a coma. What the hell was the third wave that it made him and seven hundred other people almost die?

“Out of that seven hundred, I’d say only five hundred were unconscious for half a day. No need to panic too much.” Deaton slowly made his way around the bed, still eyeing him like Stiles was some kind of rare creature. “About a hundred others were only out for twenty-four hours. A little worse, but not as bad as the next number. Forty-nine people were out for three days, which is cause for extreme concern, but can you guess who was the only one that was out for an entire week?

Even without the giant neon side above his head pointing down to him, Stiles already felt like he knew the answer. “Me?” His stomach sunk at the realization. He felt his throat close slightly and it was hard to swallow.

Deaton smiled like this was some sick game and Stiles won the grand prize. “Precisely. You are one in a million, Stiles. Or should I say, one in seven hundred. There is no one in the entire sector that is like you. What the wave did to you, we have yet to see anything like it.”

“What did the wave do to me?” Stiles shivered at the way Deaton's words hung in the air and he took a shuddering breath, trying not to lash out. “What the fuck was that wave?” His hands balled at his side.

Deaton looked at Stiles’ dad, trying to convey some invisible message. Stiles’ dad nodded slightly before reaching out for his son’s shoulder once more. “That information is highly classified, but I think we can make an exception this one time. What you are about to hear, son… no one else can know. Do you understand?”

Stiles looked between his dad and Deaton, no patience in his glance. “Well?”

“The first wave affected electronics and such,” Deaton started carefully. “The second wave affected animal and plant biology. The third wave, however… affected human biology. At least, that is what the growing evidence is suggesting. It only happened a week ago but there is enough research so far to predict that the third wave changed the DNA of those that were affected. All seven hundred of you. That’s just in this sector, though. Who knows how many people in the others. Or even the world.”

Stiles leaned back in his bed. That didn’t make sense and it couldn’t be true. He didn’t want to believe it. “My… DNA?” It sounded insane. His biology was altered? What did that even mean?!

Deaton nodded. “I work for ALIE, and we have been in close contact with government scientists to find out more about what's going on. Considering the severity of this epidemic, we are putting this as top priority. Those of you whose biology have been altered may exhibit certain… special abilities.”

Stiles blinked for a few seconds, not sure if he heard correctly, before lifting his eyebrows in shock. “Fucking english, please?” His voice came out harsh, more nervous than sarcastic.

“Stiles, language,” his dad chided, but he barely registered it. Everything that was entering his ears was increasing his levels of freaking out. Nothing that was said was calming him down in the slightest.

Deaton didn’t seem phased by Stiles freaking out, as he stood next to the bed with a calm expression. “We don’t know much yet, but the only thing we understand is that those that were unconscious for only twelve hours are exhibiting enhanced physical abilities. Increased strength, speed, agility, and even enhanced senses. There are still tests being done, and this information was just found out a couple days ago, so results may vary. We still have no idea what abilities those that were unconscious for a whole day may have, or even three days.” Deaton eyed him with wonder. “We aren’t even close to figuring out what a week might do to someone.”

Stiles took a few deep breaths so he could take all that in before lifting his hands to rub his eyes. He wished he had just stayed sleeping. The weight of all the information he just got was suffocating.

Deaton sent one last assessing glance at Stiles. “I’ll let you come to terms with this information. If you need me, I’ll be talking to Melissa so we can discuss the next steps,” he said, quietly making his exit through the sliding door.

“Son? You with me?” His dad said after a few long moments, his voice softer than usual.

Stiles shook his head, too many thoughts running in his mind, before dropping his hands and looking at his dad in despair. “What happened to me?”

His father looked at him with pain and sadness in his features. “I don’t know. I was with my unit when we got an alert that the Others were planning something. Something big. By the time we realized what the readings were displaying, it was too late. I tried to contact you and tell you to get to a safe place, but the service was cut off because of the wave. The wave… it hit everything.” He shook his head, voice tight. “I wasn’t anywhere near and after the wave, it was chaos. Melissa was the one who brought you here, along with the rest of your friends. All of them were affected

Stiles was taken back by that statement. “Scott got hit by the wave? How long was he out? What about the others?”

His dad crossed his arms. “To my knowledge, Scott was out for three days. Along with another boy. Derek Hale. Most of the others were only down for twelve hours.” His dad furrowed his brow in thought for a few seconds. “One of them were out for a whole day, though. Lydia Martin.”

Stiles absorbed that information as best as he could. His dad didn’t seem distressed at the fact that Scott was out of commission for three days, and neither did Melissa. So that means that Scott is probably okay. The same must go for Derek…

“But dad… a whole week? What does that mean?” His voice trembled and he stared at his father with wide eyes.

His dad shook his head. “I have no idea but I promise, we are going to find out. The Others won’t get away with this.”

“Good thing I’m here then.” The new voice made Stiles stiffen in his bed. He didn’t like the idea of people just walking in and out of his room when his life was clearly being turned upside down.

He glanced at the sliding door just as Deaton and Melissa walked back in. Deaton was the one who spoke. “I have spoken to Melissa and Stiles’ vitals are looking more promising. He should be able to be released by the end of the day. Once that is situated, I would like to stay in contact, Noah. There is much that needs to be done. With this recent wave and what it means, I’m sure you already know.”

Stiles’ dad sighed. “I know, and with that being said, I need to make a few calls. There’s still so much we need to figure out.” He turned back to Stiles, trying to force a smile. “Are you going to be okay in the meantime?”

Stiles didn’t even have the energy to force a smile. “I’ll survive. Maybe.” Between how his body was feeling and the info dump he was just given, he wouldn’t be surprised if he keeled over at that very moment.

“I’ll make sure of it,” Melissa said, coming up next to the bed with the same tablet in her hands. “I need to check Stiles’ stats again anyways.” She nodded towards his dad, who still looked reluctant about leaving his son alone. “You can step out in the meantime. I’ve got this.”

He smiled in thanks before turning back to his son. “I’ll be right back.”

Stiles slumped in his bed. “And I’ll be right here.”

He stiffly walked into his housing pod, his dad only a step behind him with a hand out. Like he was anticipating Stiles to keel over any second. Which was rude considering he made it all the way there just fine with no help. Well, if you neglect the part where he had to take many breaks on the way. His head wasn’t pounding anymore but his body still felt weak. It was probably going to take a little while to feel normal again.

“Why don’t you take a seat at the table? I’ll get you some water.” His dad moved quickly into the kitchen to do just that, Stiles followed slowly behind.

He sat down at the kitchen table and grimaced slightly. His body was sore from head to toe. A glass of water appeared before him and he reached for it greedily. Maybe he should take a few of those pills Melissa gave him. She did give him a truckload. 

“I’ve talked to the principal and he said school will be out for the next week or two, depending on how things go.” His dad crossed his arms and leaned against the kitchen counter. “I’m guessing it might go on a little longer.”

Stiles nodded slowly as he lowered the glass. “So… the government is covering this up?”

“We can’t cover up a wave, Stiles. We’re just not telling the entire truth about what happened. It was announced that the wave was just like the first one. To shut down our communications.”

“But it didn’t! It affected a lot of people. It affected me!” Stiles shouted before the volume of his voice created a sharp pain behind his eyes and he winced slightly. He took a deep breath to calm down. “The government needs to tell people the truth.”

“And then what? Hmm? We tell people that the Others sent out a wave that changed certain people, gave them abilities, and then what happens? We don’t have an answer or a solution! What do you think is going to happen when people find out you're not normal? That the aliens who came here to kill us, changed you?” His dad waved a hand to emphasize, his voice strained. “You think people are going to sit around and let you or your friends live a normal life? I’m trying to protect you, Stiles.”

“No, you're just trying to control people.” Stiles got up from his seat with a slight grunt, his body protesting. His dad moved to help him but he lifted a hand to stop him. “I’m going to my room. I want to go to sleep and hope that this was all just a messed up dream.”

His dad watched him wobble out of the kitchen without a word, but Stiles didn’t miss the hurt and worry that was etched into his fathers face.

Stiles picked at his food with a fork. He wasn’t really feeling like indulging in sector cuisine today. It's not that he wasn’t hungry first thing in the morning, it's just he lost his appetite.

“So? How are you feeling?” Deaton asked, his hands wrapped around a cup of tea, his gaze steady and evaluating.

“You know, I heard in the other sectors, the richer sectors, they actually have real meat.” Stiles picked up his fake bacon and took a heavy bite out of it. “I wonder what that actually tastes like. You’d think the general of the sector police force could scrounge up a few coins to get some quality meat around here.”

Deaton didn’t seem keen on responding to what he just said. Instead, he just continued on. “You were released from the medical lab yesterday, and you're already showing improvements. Is your body still stiff? Are you having trouble moving around at all?”

Stiles dropped his half eaten bacon on his plate and sat up straight. “You know… now that you mention it, there is something I want to bring up. Maybe you could help me understand it.” Deaton looked at him intently, ready to respond, and Stiles nodded slowly. “Lately, I've been using the bathroom a lot more. Do you think something is wrong with my bladder or—“

“Stiles,” Deaton exasperated with a shake of his head. “This is serious.”

“Then why isn’t my dad here, huh? Why wasn’t he here when I woke up in a cold sweat because my body was still hurting and I didn't know what was going on?” Stiles said angrily, throwing a hand up. “Ill tell you why, because whatever the wave did to me, my dad hates it. That's why he doesn’t want to tell people the truth. That's why he wants to lock me in this pod for god knows how long.”

“Last I checked, your pod locks from the inside.” Deaton motioned towards the door. “If you're able enough you can walk right on out of here. Nobody will stop you.”

Stiles crossed his arms and looked away with a grumble. He hated when people found holes in his arguments. Just because his body was still sore and he probably wouldn’t make it too far doesn't mean he doesn’t feel trapped. He still meant everything else he said.

“Stiles, you weren't there for the first wave. You probably dont even remember the second wave, but let me tell you this; after every wave, a catastrophe occurred. Riots in the bunkers. Looting. Vandalism. Murder. People were outraged and scared. Especially after the second wave when their own pets started turning on them… What do you think people will do once they find out the third wave didn’t change their pets, but this time their friends and family?” Deaton eyed him, gauging his reaction. “What do you think the response will be if the government told the public that the Others handpicked certain people and changed them for an unknown reason? Do you think they would just welcome you with open arms and act like nothing is different? In this day and age?”

Stiles flicked his eyes at Deaton before looking away again. “Okay… that still doesn’t explain why my dad isn’t here. Or why you're here instead—“

*Knock… Knock*

“Well, there’s your answer.” Deaton said before calling out to whoever is behind the door. “You can come in, Parrish! It’s unlocked!”

Stiles turned towards the sliding door with a curious glance. It opened, revealing a slightly tall man with brown hair and a calculating but calm gaze. The man, Parrish supposedly, sported combat boots, camo cargo pants, a dark green fitted t-shirt and a black zip-up combat vest. He looked pretty standard for an off-duty officer. Stiles was just confused on why he was there.

Parrish nodded towards Deaton. “Sorry I got here a little late. I was getting debriefed.” He walked forward and stood next to the table with his hands in his vest. He looked at Stiles and gave a small smile. “Hi, Stiles. I’m Lieutenant Parrish. Your dad sent me to watch over you since he couldn’t make it.”

Stiles slumped in his seat. “Great. Another person to add to the list. Why don’t we just start a party and invite everyone on the task force except my dad?”

Parrish pursed his lips like he didn’t know how to respond, and instead looked at Deaton. Who was just eyeing Stiles with a ghost of a smile. “Stiles, Parrish is going to be your new detail. When your father is not present, Parrish will be here in his place. Once school starts up again, Parrish will be on the premises at all times. His job is to make sure you are safe.”

Stiles sat up slightly, his confusion growing, and looked at the two men. “But… why? Because of the wave?”

Deaton nodded. “To our knowledge, since the third wave swept across the sector, you are the only one who is a level four. To make it easier to categorize those of you who have been affected, the government is attaching levels to you. Level one are those that were unconscious for twelve hours. Level two is twenty-four hours. Level three is three days, and finally, level four is one week. Due to the… severity of this case, and the secrecy, we have decided that it would be best if you are protected and watched at all times. Who knows what might come of this situation.”

Stiles nodded slowly as it all sunk in. “So… I’m the only freak in the sector, in a cage, under constant watch because who knows what could come for me for whatever reason.” He sucked his teeth and stood up from his seat. “Amazing. Just fucking amazing.”

He moved to leave and head to his room, he saw Parrish reach out to him out of the corner of his eye but Deaton stopped. Stiles was surprised he was even able to make it to his room without his muscles aching or a headache popping up. He had just closed his bedroom door and sat down on the edge of his bed when everything hit him. He stared at his bedroom door in the darkness and wondered when his life turned into this. Stiles felt the corners of his eyes stinging at the thought and he swiped a sleeve under his nose with a sniffle.

Like he said, just fucking amazing…

The rest of the day, he just sulked around his pod. Since it was only Sunday, and school was out for the foreseeable future anyways, he really didn’t have much to do. Usually, he would drag Scott out of his pod for some mischief. There weren’t a lot of things to do for kids their age since they weren’t old enough to start working and they didn’t have any friends to hang out with but each other.

But Parrish put an end to all of that immediately.

The moment Stiles started heading for the door so he could go talk to Scott, Parrish was out of his seat in seconds, planting himself between Stiles and the door.

“General Stilinski said to keep you in the house for today. Just until we know it’s safe.” The man said, putting his hands on his hips. “And until you feel alright enough to move around.”

Stiles scowled, frustration building. “Deaton said I could leave whenever I wanted.”

“Deaton doesn’t answer to your father. I do.”

And that was the end of the discussion.

Stiles tried to argue his way past. Tried to come up with a lie and say he just wanted some fresh air. He even tried to bribe his way past but nope. Parrish was stuck on this annoying mission of keeping him in the house. Stiles wondered what kind of dirt his dad had on Parrish to make him so loyal. It had to be something good.

The hours seemed to drag on. Stiles, finally only feeling tired after a shower, was just about to head to bed when he heard his dad walk through the front door.

Stiles padded out into the dimly lit hallway just in time to see his dad patting Parrish on the shoulder as he walked past him into the kitchen. “How was he?” His dad asked, taking a position next to the table, facing away from him.

Parrish shrugged. “Nothing I couldn’t handle. I used to be a teenager once.”

“Yea, back when a bicycle was a hot new invention,” Stiles interrupted with a yawn, walking into the kitchen and leaning against the closest wall. He remembers the old movies his dad would show him about the surface world. Stiles has never seen a bicycle in person but he definitely associates it with ‘old’.

Parrish gave him a dry look. “I’m not that old.”

Stiles shrugged indifferently. 

His dad shook his head lightly before turning back to Parrish. “I’ll see you tomorrow. Same time.”

“It’s still bad out there, huh?” Parrish asked.

Stiles’ dad sighed. “Probably isn’t going to get any better any time soon.”

Parrish nodded. “Copy that. Have a good night, General.” He nodded to Stiles on his way out the door, leaving the pod in a sort of suffocating quiet. Stiles was still leaning against the wall and his dad was standing next to the kitchen table, his back turned towards him.

It was a little while until Stiles finally said something. “What did Parrish mean when he said it’s bad out there?” He was worried about the answer but being cooped up all day with barely any human interaction made him hungry for details about what’s going on.

His dad moved to sit down at the table, in a chair facing him. Even in the dim kitchen light, Stiles could tell his dad looked tired. “It means exactly how it sounds, son. I’ve been out all day trying to calm the public, and to get answers for their questions.” His voice was strained and Stiles only felt the unease in his chest increase.

“But you already know the answers.” He stepped deeper into the kitchen, his hands clenched at his side. “Just tell them the truth—

“Do you think it’s that easy?” His dad snapped, looking at him with a furrowed brow. “Do you think all of their worries and unease would just disappear if they knew what the wave did? We don’t even know what the wave did. Stiles, you're a child. The way you view the world isn’t how the world actually works.”

Stiles crossed his arms in an attempt to comfort himself. “This just doesn’t seem fair. For anybody—”

“It’s not about being unfair, Stiles!” His dad shouted, standing up from his seat and almost knocking the chair to the floor. “Think about all the people that were affected by the wave. Think about the-the conductors for the subway train that got knocked out and couldn’t pull on the brakes to stop the train from crashing. Think about the scientists and medical lab assistants that were rendered unconscious while working on highly dangerous substances. Think about our soldiers that were on the surface fighting for us that were caught blindsided, and most likely killed by the Others… and all you can think about is fairness?”

Stiles didn’t know what to say. With each word that his dad shouted at him, he took tiny steps back. The force of the message hitting too deep. Maybe it was because his dad was the one giving it, or maybe it was because he hadn’t thought about that. 

Either way, he was feeling pretty dumb and small right now.

“I-I’m sorry. I just didn’t like the thought of you being out there all day when so much has already happened,” he said with a small sniffle. He hated how emotional he’s been lately.

His dad sighed and seemed to deflate. He retook his original seat. “Son, come sit down.” He pointed to the chair next to him.

Stiles almost didn’t want to move from his spot. He just wanted to shrink into nothingness. It felt like his feet were rooted in place. It took an insurmountable amount of strength to get his legs moving and slip into the only other chair. He kept his eyes on the table in front of him.

“I’m sorry for yelling at you. I didn’t mean to communicate so aggressively, but I've been out in the field this entire week. Shouting orders and dealing with crowds nonstop. I’ve seen a lot of things… Situations I do not want to see you in.” His dad reached over and placed a hand on his shoulder. “Deaton told me about what you said earlier. About how you think I hate what’s going on with you. About how you called yourself a freak? Stiles, look at me.”

He didn’t listen at first. Stiles kept his eyes glued to the brown-stained wood of his kitchen table, sniffling slightly. The idea of looking up was not appealing.

“I said look at me.”

He finally lifted his eyes, slowly of course. His fathers eyes were filled with fatigue and fear… but also conviction. Like he was trying to push past all the bad. 

“No matter what you do, no matter what you become, no matter who you are; you will always be my son. I love you.” He squeezed Stiles’ shoulder, like a grounding force. “What the Others did to you, we will deal with it. Together. You're not a freak and I don’t hate you. Do you understand?”

Stiles felt something in his chest ease up and he nodded stiffly. “Yes…” Maybe this was exactly what he needed to hear. He trusts his dad completely, it’s just ever since he woke up in the medical bay of the lab, his entire life has turned upside down.

Stiles thought the only thing he had to worry about was his next biology test and who his new friends were going to be. He didn’t anticipate this.

“Good. Now get to bed, you need to rest.” His dad took his hand away and stood up. “I’ll make sure to stay a little later and see you before I head out, okay?”

Stiles stood up as well, swiping his arm once more under his nose. “Okay. Goodnight.” He felt the weight of the conversation he just had. Maybe that’s why he felt a thousand times more tired than when be first walked into the kitchen.

“Goodnight, son.”

As promised, when Stiles woke up Monday morning, his dad was waiting for him in the kitchen, already in his work uniform, attempting to make breakfast again. Parrish was there too, munching on a stack of pancakes in the same camo attire as the day before, minus the vest.

“Morning,” Stiles said with a yawn and moved to take the only other seat.

“Goodmorning, how are you feeling?” His dad asked, turning off the stove and finishing up with the rest of the pancakes. “Your body still sore? Headaches?”

Stiles did a mental check of his injuries before shrugging. “Not really. I still feel a little uneasy. Like how it feels when you're about to catch a cold, but that’s starting to go away too. I was able to get out of bed and into the kitchen without much of an issue. So that’s something.”

“Improvements.” Parrish lifted his fork in agreement. “Better than yesterday. You could barely move.”

Stiles sent him a dry look as a stack of pancakes made its way in front of him. “I don’t remember paying you for your opinion.”

“No, but your dad does.” Parrish grinned before correcting himself and looking towards the general. “Respectfully, sir.”

“Alright, enough of that.” Stiles’ dad said with a shake of his head but a tiny smile tugged at the corner of his lips. He then stood next to the table with his arms crossed. “I’m going to head out soon and like I said, I just wanted to see you before I do.”

Stiles picked up his fork and started digging into his food. “Mhm,” he said around a mouthful. He didn’t want to get too deep into what’s going on with him. He just wanted to relax, fill his stomach with as much food as he could, and then take a long nap. Hopefully everything goes back to normal when he woke up.

“I spoke with Melissa, and Deaton, and they both suggested that… I allow you to visit Scott.”

Stiles paused, fork halfway to his mouth. “Can I?”

His dad looked uncomfortable at the idea. “I’d rather you stay home, where it’s safe.”

“It’s literally across the hall. Nothing's going to happen! Parrish could come, if anything.”

“Oh, I was going to stick with you whether you stay or go anyways. That's my job,” Parrish added matter-of-factly as he wiped his mouth with a napkin and stood up with his empty plate.

Stiles rolled his eyes. “Regardless, I haven't seen Scott in over a week. That’s longer than either of us have been apart. I’m getting McCall withdrawal.”

His dad looked at him skeptically. “I don’t think that’s a thing.”

“It’s so a thing. You get a bad rash, hydrophobia, you even start hallucinating. It’s bad.” Stiles nodded seriously.

His dad just stared at him for a second, clearly trying to come up with a reason on how this would be a bad thing. After a long while, he sighed. “Alright. You can head over there once you're done eating. Melissa should be at the lab by that time anyways.” He fixed a finger at his son. “The moment you feel off or your body starts feeling weird, you head straight home. That’s an order.”

Stiles would’ve responded but he was too busy scarfing down the rest of his breakfast. He just gave a half-hearted salute instead.

“And Parrish is going to be there the entire time. You listen to anything he tells you to do.” His dad lowered his hand but paused beforehand, like he realized that the thought of his son listening to anybody but him was hard to imagine.

Stiles snorted, because that’s true, which made him almost choke on his pancakes. He could deal with a little suffocation though, if it meant he got to see his best friend.

Stiles quickly made his way across the hall, Parrish trailing at his usual, unhurried, pace. Clearly in no rush, unlike Stiles. The moment he got the permission to do so, his feet were itching to carry his body over to see his best friend. It’s been far too long.

“Scott!” Stiles called out, slipping past the sliding door before it even finished moving.

“Stiles, knock next time.” Parrish sighed, shaking his head.

“This is basically my second home.” Stiles waved him off. “It’s fi—“

“Stiles?!” Cried a voice from the living room. A voice he hadn’t heard in over a week.

“Scott!” Stiles rushed forward to embrace his best friend.

“Dude, what happened to you?” Scott asked once they were done hugging, staring like he couldn’t believe what he was seeing. “Your dad wouldn’t let anybody see you the whole time you were knocked out. It was freaky.”

Stiles gave him an apologetic nod. It had only been a week but Scott already looked different. The biggest change was his hair. Scott didn’t have his curls on display anymore, they were cut short. More on the sides than the top. “I know. I’m sorry about that. You know how protective he can get. He even confiscated my phone, I couldn’t do anything. Especially after all this? He’s not gonna want to let me leave his sight.” The more he looked at Scott, the more his new hairdo fit him.

“Is that why you have a shiny new bodyguard?” Scott nodded towards Parrish, who was carefully walking around the pod, surveying everything with a calculated gaze.

Stiles rolled his eyes and waved a hand. “That’s Parrish. Don’t worry about him, he’s nobody. Just act like he’s not there.”

“Kind of hard to do when he’s walking around my house like a random chair is going to jump up and attack you,” Scott muttered, watching Parrish do his little sweep of the area.

The lieutenant nodded in satisfaction, sitting down on the couch and getting comfortable. “Everythings clear. You guys should be good to go.”

“Of course we are. Did you think something was going to happen right across the hall from my house?” Stiles asked and Parrish just shrugged like it didn’t matter either way. Stiles rolled his eyes at that. He didn’t feel like fighting a losing battle today.

“Stiles, are you okay?” Scott eyed him, concern creasing his brow. “Seriously. You were asleep way longer than the rest of us.”

Stiles shrugged before crossing his arms. “I felt like shit at first. My whole body hurt, headaches, muscle pain, the whole nine… but I feel better now. Did it feel like that for you? What about the others?”

Scott shook his head. “No, I didn’t really feel like that. I mean, my body kinda felt weird. Like I grew five inches overnight, but it went away the next day.”

Stiles eyed his best friend for a second before raising a hand to measure his height. “Huh… you kind of do look a little taller. And bigger too, like you've been secretly working out.” He poked Scott’s arm. “Is there something you're not telling me, Scotty?”

Scott swatted his hand away. “Actually, yea.” He turned to glance at Parrish, who was too busy reading some random, blank-covered book. “I need to talk to you. Alone,” Scott whispered.

Stiles nodded seriously before turning to Parrish. “Soldier! My partner and I will be reconvening in his bedroom. Do you copy?” He stood a little taller and puffed out his chest in an attempt to mimic a standard military pose.

Parrish sent a thumbs up without looking up from his book. “Copy.”

“Let's go.” Stiles spun on his feet, Scott right behind him, and headed down the hallway so the two of them could get a little privacy. Stiles was surprised Parrish didn’t try to come with them, considering how strict things were around here.

“So, what’s going on?” Stiles asked, dropping into Scott’s desk chair and spun in a slow circle.

The teen looked a little nervous and Stiles was confused on why. “Since the wave, a lot of things have been going on. Weird things.”

“I’ve noticed.”

“I don’t think you have. Since you were asleep a lot longer than the rest of us, and your dad has been keeping you in the house since, you don’t know what’s been going on out there.”

Stiles stopped spinning around and looked at Scott, who was busy wringing his hands. “What happened?”

Scott sighed and sat down on the edge of his bed. “It’s all over the net. Everybody’s scared and confused. Two of the subway cars crashed into each other… a lot of people died. There’s only one car working now but the government is using it to transport supplies between the sectors. You know the west side of the sector? The one that your dad blocked off because there was a breach?” Stiles nodded. “The east side is the exact same now. Supposedly, there was a big fight on the surface and when the wave hit, it made everything worse. Now, nobody is allowed on the east side.”

Stiles cursed and felt his chest hurt. His dad took away his phone and the house laptop so he had no idea what was going on. He knew it must’ve been bad but he didn’t think it was this bad.

“Is everyone okay? Derek and the others?” He asked. That one question has been running in his mind ever since his dad told him that they all had been affected.

Thankfully, Scott nodded. “Yea, kind of. It’s complicated.”

Stiles narrowed his eyes slightly. “How complicated?”

Scott tilted his head, thinking for a second. “I don’t know how much your dad told you about what happened to those that got hit by the wave…”

“He told me everything,” Stiles clarified, nodding slowly. “He told me what the different times mean and about the… powers and stuff.” The thought of superpowers seemed like a fairytale.

Scott looked at him with wide eyes. “Did he? What did he say? Does he know what’s going on with us?”

Stiles furrowed his brow. “You don’t know?”

Scott shook his head sheepishly. “Derek's uncle, Peter? He works for ALIE. He only told us the basics. Everyone that’s affected by the wave is gonna get special abilities or something like that, but he doesn’t know anything else. That’s what Derek and the others have been trying to figure out for the past week.”

Stiles nodded again. His dad did say it was pretty confidential. He guessed barely anybody knew the truth. “Do you have your phone?” Scott nodded. Stiles stood up and walked towards him. “Pull it out. You got Derek's number?”

Scott nodded again while pulling out his phone, but he still looked confused. “Yea, but why?”

“Text Derek and see if he can come over. I’ll tell you guys what my dad told me.” Granted, it wasn’t much but any information can help. He didn’t like the thought of everyone being in the dark. People deserved to know the truth.

Scott unlocked his phone and started typing away. “What about your bodyguard? I’m guessing he’s not gonna like the idea of more people being around?”

Stiles smirked slightly. “You just let me deal with that. I got a plan.”

“Come on!” He whined. "It's just one person. Maybe two! It wouldn’t be a big deal. I promise if my dad was here, he’d say it’s fine.”

Parrish shook his head as he flipped a page in his book. “Well, your dad isn't here and I said no. We agreed for you to be with Scott for the day, nobody else.”

“He’s already on the way, probably outside already! Right, Scott?” Stiles turned to him.

Scott nodded fervently. “Already on the way.”

“See! If it would make you feel better, you can give him a pat down for any weapons or drugs. Anything to put your mind at ease.”

Parrish snorted, still reading his book. “Telling me he might have drugs or weapons on him for me to even do a pat down in the first place, is not helping your case.”

Stiles rolled his eyes. “Oh my god, it’s a metaphorical situation. Derek wouldn’t actually have drugs or weapons on him.” Stiles paused for a second before glancing at Scott. “Right?”

Scott nodded again. “Right.”

“Exactly! You know I hate saying please. Don’t make me do it.” Stiles stared at Parrish, who didn’t even respond, before sighing and crossing his arms. “If you were me, being in a coma for a week and not knowing what the hell is going on around here, wouldn’t you want to see your friends and make sure they’re okay? That’s all I’m trying to do. Derek doesn’t even have to stay for long. I just want to ease my mind. Please?”

Parrish stayed quiet for a few long seconds, still reading his book, before finally looking up and eyeing him. Stiles stood under his watch and fidgeted slightly. He wasn’t sure what Parrish’s judgement would be but he hoped it was in his favor.

After a while, Parrish sighed. “Fine. Don’t tell your dad.”

Stiles pumped his fist in the air. “Thank you. And when I said he was probably outside already, that was kind of a lie.” He moved towards the sliding door.

“What do you mean?” Parrish asked, putting his book down and sitting up. 

“It Isn’t ‘he’s probably outside’, but more so ‘he’s definitely outside.” Stiles grimaced slightly before pressing the button to open the sliding door. 

And standing outside was a surprised-looking Derek Hale. He probably wasn’t expecting the door to open so suddenly. “Uh, hey?” He gave an awkward wave.

Parrish looked at Derek, then at him, then at Scott, before looking back at him with a dry glance. “Stiles…”

Stiles reached forward, grabbed Derek by the arm and pulled him inside before shutting the door. “You already agreed! No take-backs! Like I said, if it makes you feel any better you can pat him down.” He put Derek in front of him and motioned towards him.

“Pat me down?” Derek furrowed his brow. Stiles felt a little bad about springing this situation on him, but then again, Parrish was looking at Stiles like he was ready to throw him over his shoulder and run out of here. So, a human shield wouldn’t be a bad idea.

Parrish marched forward and eyed Derek up and down, taking in every part of him. Surprisingly, Derek didn’t look too nervous about this. Of course, a big, scary-looking military man coming up to you and scowling in your face was enough to make anybody a little nervous, but Derek stood his ground. He puffed out his chest slightly and eyed Parrish right back.

Stiles nodded slightly. He made a mental note to pat Derek on the back for his performance. If it was him that Parrish was looking at like that, he would’ve given up before it even started.

After a while, Parrish crossed his arms. “You're not staying long.”

Derek nodded. “I know.”

“Once you, Stiles, and Scott are done talking, you're leaving. Immediately. This isn't a hang out session.”

“Okay. That’s fine.”

Parrish kept staring at Derek, a lot longer than Stiles felt was comfortable, before finally nodding and stepping aside. “Alright then. Yall get fifteen minutes.”

Stiles nodded stiffly before moving forward, grabbing Derek by his arm on the way so he could drag him with him. “Amazing pissing match you two. Really. But we have things to talk about.” He kept walking, heading straight for Scott’s bedroom.

Once inside, he finally let go of Derek's arm and stood next to the bed. “Sorry about that. That’s Parrish, my dad’s lieutenant. He’s a little… intense.”

Derek huffed while Scott moved past him to sit on the bed. “It’s okay. Scott texted me the details. I kind of knew what to expect already.” His gaze softened as he studied Stiles. “Are you okay?”

Stiles shrugged and crossed his arms. He wasn’t used to so many people asking about his wellbeing. “Could be better. I heard you guys were busy this past week. What’s up with that?”

Derek nodded. “Laura and I have been talking to our uncle, Peter, and trying to get some info, but it’s slow. Peter doesn’t have that high of a clearance yet. He’s only technical support for field operatives. The only thing they're telling him about the wave is that it was a sweep for our communications again, like the first one. They haven't even put out a statement about the people who were knocked out.”

Stiles tilted his head slightly in thought. His dad did say as much. The announcement about the wave was probably given out in the time that he was unconscious.

“Stiles, anything you wanna add?” Scott asked from his spot.

Stiles nodded slowly. “My dad told me that the wave changed us. Those that were affected.”

“Changed us? How?” Derek questioned.

“You know how people were knocked out for different amounts of time? Well, that wasn’t random. Everyone that was affected is going to start going through some weird stuff. Scott, you remember those old books? Animorphs?” His best friend nodded. “Yea, that kind of weird. We’re all going to have some kind of special power.”

“What kind of powers?”

Stile scratched his head. “My dad is working with a scientist from ALIE. His name is Deaton. He explained that the amount of time someone was unconscious, is going to equal their type of powers. People that were knocked out for twelve hours are going to get super strength, speed, and some other stuff. He didn’t say anything about the other times though. The government is breaking it down into levels. You guys are level three.” 

“Since we were out for three days?” Derek asked, and Stiles nodded. Derek eyed him slightly. “What about you? You were out longer than the rest of us.”

Stiles shuffled his feet and huffed nervously. “Level four. Deaton doesn’t know what kind of powers ill have. I could shoot lasers from my eyes for all anybody knows. Have you guys been feeling weird lately? After being unconscious?”

Scott made a face, like he was still processing the thought of having super powers, and Derek just shrugged. “Not really. I mean, my body hurt for like a day or two afterwards, but that’s gone now. Nothing else has changed.”

“Same,” Scott added. “Then again, it’s only been a week. Maybe we just need to wait a little more.”

Stiles hummed. That sounded logical. Everything is still fresh. “Maybe…”

Just then, there was a loud knocking coming from Scott’s bedroom door. “Times up, guys!” Parrish called out from the hallway.

Stiles rolled his eyes. It hadn’t even been fifteen minutes! Parrish needed to learn how to relax. It’s okay to break a few rules sometimes. 

“I’m gonna head out.” Derek started towards the door. “If you learn anything—“

“I’ll make sure to let you know.” Stiles sent him a half-hearted thumbs up. 

Derek gave him a small smile. “Scott can send you my number. Just text me when you can.”

Derek walked out the door and Stiles felt a little sad to watch him leave. It’s been so long since he had actual human interactions. Parrish didn’t count. The guy was like a trained dog who only listened to one person. A trained dog who clearly didn’t know how to track time correctly.

(A Week Later)

Derek: have you talked to Allison recently?

Stiles: no, y? You know my dad is like the ultimate control freak. He almost didn’t let me see Scott

Derek: because she was the only one of our friends who didn’t get knocked out by the wave. 

Derek: Plus, Laura thinks Allison's dad has something to do with all this

Stiles: what??? Y would she think that?

Derek: something our uncle said… make sure to ask her the next time you see her

“Stiles? Is something on your phone more important than our conversation?”

He almost dropped his phone trying to stuff it back into his pocket. Flustered, he waved a hand at Deaton. “No. Of course not. Everything you say is of utmost importance.” 

Deaton hummed lightly, looking around his room with a curious glance before standing next to the sliding door. “I see your father has given you back your texting permissions. How is that going?”

Stiles shrugged before leaning back in his desk chair. “Texting is texting. Faster than a carrier pigeon. Faster than word of mouth. An amazing invention.”

There was a tiny smile tugging at Deaton's lips before he cleared his throat. Almost like he didn’t want to acknowledge how funny Stiles was, which, rude. “Have you or your friends noticed anything odd or different? I’m assuming the aches and pains are gone.”

“Yup. Feeling brand new. As for whether my friends and I have activated our super secret superpowers, that’s still on the table. It's kind of hard to activate something that we have no clue about.” Stiles watched Deaton's reaction. “Would really help it if you could give me some more info.”

Deaton just watched him right back, the two of them getting into a small staring contest. A few seconds passed by, and Stiles was contemplating giving up, before Deaton finally spoke. “There has been a new development.”

“Has there?” Stiles stood up straight, a mischievous smile teasing at his lips. He threw the bait and caught something.

Deaton hummed again, nodding slowly. “I really shouldn’t be telling you this. It could get me in a lot of trouble, and not just with your dad. This is classified information.”

“Psshh, what is my dad going to do? He’s just a general.” Stiles waved a hand dismissively. “Nothing to worry about. I’ve kept secrets from him before.”

Deaton gave him a dry look before shaking his head. “Fine, but only if you promise me something.”

“Shoot.”

“Promise you’ll attempt to bring out your abilities. You are the only level four in the sector. We have no data on you or anything you can do. The sooner you figure out what you can become, the sooner I can help you.” Deaton gave him a serious look. “Promise me, Stiles. We may not have much time left.”

Stiles felt a weight press down on his shoulders at those last words. “I… I promise,” he said before huffing nervously. “Kinda putting a lot of pressure on me, doc.” They don’t have that much time? What does that mean?

Deaton sighed, his shoulders sagging just the slightest. “I apologize, like I said, I wouldn't usually give this information so freely… but there is too much going on. For starters, there’s been a new development. It has been seen in level ones that when their abilities are being used, I.e, enhanced strength or speed… their eyes may glow a certain color.”

Stiles looked at Deaton in surprise. “They have glowing eyes?!”

Deaton nodded. “More specifically, their irises will glow. Level ones have yellow, almost gold eyes. This change only happens when they use their abilities or, in extreme cases, their emotions spike. Mainly anger. It doesn’t affect their eyesight negatively, and it’s not permanent. Once the level one stops actively using their ability, their irises return to their natural color.”

Stiles sat back at that. He wanted to say that it sounded insane, but with aliens running around, changing eye colors doesn’t seem that farfetched.

“We also have reason to believe that the other levels will experience this as well, we just don’t know which color will present.” Deaton clasped his hands behind himself. “While researching level ones are still ongoing, my superiors are making moves to study level twos as well. I’d guess it will happen starting tomorrow.”

“What does that mean?” Stiles didn’t like the undertone that Deaton was using. He made it sound like it was something that needed to be worried about.

“According to calculations, there were only a hundred level twos… including your friend, Lydia Martin.” Deaton watched him carefully. “With the experimental group being so limited, I’d expect Ms. Martin's life to become very overwhelming very soon.”

Stiles felt a heavy weight settle in the bottom of his stomach. “Will the government come for her? Would they try to experiment on her?” He wasn’t the best of friends with Lydia, but the thought of the strawberry-blonde being snatched away so the government could do god-knows-what definitely didn’t sound good.

Deaton sighed, giving him a sympathetic look. “Stiles, the government may come for you all.”

Stiles felt the air leave his lungs. “What?”

“Your dad tried to stall the information about you being a level four as much as possible, but it’s bound to get out sooner or later. The same with Scott and Derek. Them being level threes aren’t any better. I don’t think they are on the top of the list, since they are only children… but you? You need to be careful, Stiles. Why do you think Parrish is in the other room?”

Stiles racked his brain for answers, but was coming up blank. He didn’t think about any of this. “I just thought my dad was being overprotective. Since he’s a general and would have to be dealing with the aftermath, he just wanted to make sure I was taken care of.”

Deaton shook his head sadly. “Parrish is here to keep you  safe. Again, the information about you is being stalled, but the government will find out. You being a child is overshadowed by the fact that you're the only level four in the sector. Another reason why you need to work with me and my superiors. It may seem a little on the nose, but ALIE is your ally.” 

Stiles leaned forward, elbows on his knees, to bury his face in his hands. On top of his whole world turning upside down, he now needed to worry about secret government agents snatching him up in the middle of the night…

Just great.

“On a brighter note, I was told school will resume next week,” Deaton added, not giving him any time to come to terms with the bombshell he dropped. “I’m sure you're happy to see your friends again.”

Stiles huffed wetly, lifting his head. “If we don’t get kidnapped before then.” 

He needed to warn people. He needed to warn his friends.

He bounced his leg anxiously and chewed on his nail. He kept flicking his eyes left and right like something was going to jump out of the shadows and reach for him. The cold, steel bench he was sitting on was the only thing keeping him grounded.

“You need to relax,” Parrish said, surveying the area in a more calm manner. “Don’t make me regret letting you come outside.”

Stiles didn’t respond. He was too busy coming up with scenarios on how everything is totally fucked.

He and Parrish were in a dark corner of the central plaza. There was a little foot traffic, but not where the two of them were. Stiles had texted Scott and Derek and told them to meet up. He wanted to spill the beans that were just tossed on his plate.

Screw secrecy. 

Just when he was getting too antsy for his bouncing leg to handle, he caught movement out the corner of his eye. He looked up and saw Scott stepping under the ceiling light, making his way towards them.

“Scott!” Stiles shot up. Seeing his best friend was already doing wonders for his nerves.

“What’s going on? I had to ditch my mom for this. She was showing me around the lab.” Scott pouted as he stood in front of him, sending a quick nod to Parrish.

Stiles furrowed his brow. “You’ve seen that lab like a gazillion times. Why are you sad to miss it?”

“It’s better than staring at a wall all day. Did you forget that school’s out till next week? There’s nothing to do.” Scott pushed his hands into his pockets. “What did you need to talk about so bad?”

“Hold on. I’m waiting for Derek. You both need to—“

“Well, good thing we got here on time,” a voice cut in from the side.

Stiles turned just as Derek and Laura slipped out of an entryway a few feet away. The two of them looked relaxed, like they weren't being chased by government agents so they could be experimented on in some secret lab… which was doing wonders for Stiles’ anxiety.

“Hey guys, and, uh, others,” Laura greeted, eyeing Parrish suspiciously before sporting her usual smile and crossing her arms. “Stiles, i know you only asked for Derek but i hope you dont mind if i tagged along. The last time you two met up, some pretty big things were discussed. I don't wanna miss it this time.” Even through her smile, Stiles could see slight tension in her shoulders. Like she was stressed or nervous about something.

Well, that makes two of them.

Stiles waved a hand. “Its fine. No biggie. Um, Parrish?” He turned to the lieutenant. “Can you give us a little privacy?”

Parrish gave him a blank look. Stiles sighed before pointing towards a bush about a meter away from them. “You can wait right over there. A few feet isnt going to kill anybody.”

Parrish stared at him for a long second before rolling his eyes and walking away. “You get ten minutes.”

“Lets hope you can actually count this time,” Stiles threw at him before ushering everyone into a close huddle. “So, I got some news for you guys. Like, insanely big news. Kind of dangerous too… Actually, really dangerous if im being hon—“

“What is it?” Scott jutted in, giving him a look.

Stiles scowled at him for interrupting his rant. “The government might come for you guys.”

The three of them just looked at him for a long while before Laura lifted a hand. “Hold on, im gonna need you to elaborate.”

“The government is going to want to study those that were affected by the wave. You remember how I said the people who were knocked out are going to get weird powers soon? Well, the people who were out for a day or more… they’re targets.”

“And since Scott and I were out for three days, we’re different than most,” Derek said, realization dawning on his face.

Stiles gave him a sympathetic look. “Yea, sorry to be the bearer of bad news. There were only so many people that were affected. Anybody who is level two or higher, the government is going to want.”

“Level two? What's that?” Scott asked.

“Level ones are people who were out for twelve hours, and level twos are people who were out for a whole day. Level three is three days,” Stiles answered before swallowing nervously. “Im level four. The only one in the sector.”

Scott’s eyes grew wide. “You were the only one who was out for a week? But… doesn't that mean the government is going to want you the most?”

Stiles sighed. “Which is why Parrish is here. I guess my dad already knew all of this and he wanted to be prepared.”

“So, knowing all this, you wanted to warn us?” Laura asked, crossing her arms in thought.

Stiles nodded. “Yea, I didn’t want this to be sprung on you guys and all of a sudden you're being kidnapped and shipped off to wherever.” He doubts that would actually happen, since they were all just kids. The government wouldn’t just snatch them up in broad daylight, would they?

Laura gave him an appreciative smile. “Thanks. Derek and I will tell the others, and make sure Lydia’s okay. She's the only level two out of our friends. She's probably going to feel so isolated.” 

“Speaking of, have you guys talked to Allison?” Stiles asked. “I remember something about her dad being a part of all this?”

Derek nodded. “Yea, Scott has been checking on Allison.”

Stiles turned a suspicious eye to his best friend. “Oh, has he now?”

Scott scratched his head and it almost looked like he was blushing. “Allison said she's been a little busy lately. They were still in the process of moving when the wave hit. They had to start all over afterwards. She should be fully moved in by the time school starts again.”

Stiles nodded slowly, a small smirk spreading on his face. “Hmm. I'm guessing you're going to keep a close eye on her then.” He bumped Scott with his elbow. “Try not to get too close, eh, Scotty?”

“Alright guys, times up,” Parrish cut in, coming back over and nodding down the sidewalk. “C’mon, Stiles. I gotta get you home before your dad gets back.”

Stiles rolled his eyes. Just when things were getting good. “Make sure you guys keep me updated, okay? As you can tell, I'm kinda on house arrest.”

The three teens nodded at him and gave their agreement. Right before Stiles turned to walk away, Derek approached him, eyeing him slowly. “Stiles, are you okay?”

“Oh, you know, nothing like the impending doom of being kidnapped in my sleep to calm my nerves.” Stiles shrugged and patted Derek's arm. “Nothing I can't handle, big guy.”

Derek huffed and nodded slowly. “Okay, I just wanted to make sure. I know we’re not really close but you're my friend now. We all need to stick together. If you need anything just let me know.”

Stiles nodded and gave a small smile. “Thanks. I might just take you up on that.”

The two of them stared at each other for a few seconds, Stiles not really knowing how to look away. The green in Derek's eyes was too—

“Stiles? We gotta go. Now,” Parrish called out with a sigh from down the sidewalk.

Stiles blinked and coughed nervously, breaking himself out of the daze. “Coming!” He answered. He turned and hurried to catch up to the lieutenant. Without looking back, he could just tell Derek was watching him leave. There was a lingering feeling in the back of Stiles’ mind… 

He couldnt shake it.

Stiles yawned as he padded out of the bathroom. Who knew taking a shower at the hottest setting would relax him so much? Nevermind the fact that he used enough water to go way past their rations for the week—

“I said no! Do you understand me? My son is not up for debate.”

Stiles froze. He turned slowly, a light coming from his dads office catching his eye. That was strange. Usually, his dad was quick to lock the sliding door behind him. Maybe he was too engrossed in his phone call to realize that he left it wide open.

“I don’t care what orders your superiors gave. I am the general of this sector and I will not let you come in and do whatever you want!” His dad yelled from the small room.

Stiles tiptoed his way across the hall, making sure to glue himself to the wall. Sliding up right next to the open doorway, he could almost make out the voice that his dad was having a conversation with. He probably had the phone on speaker.

“General, with all due respect, this Isn’t me asking for permission. We are fighting a losing battle, on both sides,” the deep voice said through the static. Almost monotone. “It’s already been decided that the best course of action is for you to bring your son and the others in—“

“It’s almost as if you're deliberately not listening to what I’m saying. My son is just a child. He is not some experiment for you to run tests on. There are many more willing volunteers within the level twos, if not level threes, that you can study—“

“That’s exactly where the issue lies, General Stilinski.” The voice cut off sharply. “Level two studies are underway as we speak, but level threes? Scarce. And level fours? We aren’t even sure where the others are yet. Your son is the only confirmed level four so far. With how populated the other sectors are, it may take some time before we can get a definitive count. Rest assured, if you hand over your son willingly, we will treat him with the utmost care.”

“And if I don’t?” Stiles heard his dad ask. His voice clipped and tight.

Stiles himself could barely hear anything through his own heartbeat pounding in his ears. The relaxation that his hot shower gave him a few minutes ago seemed like a distant memory.

It was silent on the other end for a few moments before the deep voice turned icy. “Then I’m afraid your rank as a general will not be enough to protect your family much longer.”