[A/N:Can you guess the various characters from different shows and movies in this chapter?]
Kages goes press the bell,as the door opens revealing his uncle Patrick Gates.
He has distinguished yet somewhat rugged look, fitting for a history enthusiast and former treasure hunter. He appears to be in his late 50s to early 60s, with an intelligent and slightly weary expression.
Patrick has a strong, weathered face with noticeable lines, suggesting a life of dedication and perseverance. His hair is usually grayish-white, cut short and parted, lending a respectable, mature look. He tends to wear comfortable, semi-casual clothing, like button-down shirts with a blazer or jacket, often with earth tones and subdued colors. This look emphasizes his academic and somewhat old-fashioned personality.
Patrick comes across as knowledgeable, but there's a subtle bitterness from past regrets, particularly related to his abandoned treasure-hunting pursuits. Despite his skeptical outlook, he shows warmth and loyalty toward his nephew.
Patrick seeing Kage slightly annoyed and in relief."Do you know how worried I was, when I couldn't get yours calls or connect with your phone?"
Kage guilty shrugged and replied."Sorry, the mission was very important."
Patrick led Kage further into the house, the familiar warmth of his uncle's home bringing a fleeting sense of comfort to him amidst the chaos of his recent missions. Patrick glanced back at Kage, his face etched with worry.
"You know, Kage," Patrick said, "it's not just the missions themselves. It's the fact that you're always putting yourself on the line. You might be the best at what you do, but that doesn't make it any easier for the rest of us."
Kage offered a small smile and clapped Patrick on the shoulder. "I appreciate the concern, Uncle Patrick. But you and I both know I wouldn't be doing this if I didn't know I could handle it."
Patrick sighed deeply, his concern far from eased. "I know, but you'll understand my worry someday when you have someone you care about as much as I care about you."
As they walked into Patrick's study, Kage turned the conversation back to business. "The cancellation device—did you set it up?"
Patrick nodded, gesturing to a sleek, discreet device sitting on the desk. "Activated it the moment Teddi called to let me know you were coming. Nobody's listening in on this conversation."
"Good," Kage said with a nod of approval. "We don't want any unwanted ears. Is everyone else here?"
"Yes, they're all out back," Patrick replied before pausing, a hint of unease crossing his face. "Speaking of which, John called earlier."
Kage arched a brow, sensing the shift in Patrick's tone. "What did he say?"
"He's been getting more visits from DCS," Patrick explained. "They're checking up on him frequently, making sure he's okay. But Kage, the boy's drowning in guilt. Ever since Big John disappeared, he's been blaming himself for their last fight. It's eating him alive. You signed his papers as guradian, so it is your job to visit them."
Kage's expression grew somber. John Booker Routledge was more than just a family friend—he was like a younger brother to him. The disappearance of John's father, Big John, had left a void that Kage knew all too well from his own past.
"I'll visit him after this," Kage said firmly, his voice laced with determination. "He shouldn't have to go through this alone."
Patrick nodded, his gaze softening. "It'll mean a lot to him, Kage. He looks up to you, you know. Just like his father did."
The mention of Big John stirred memories of the man's adventurous spirit, one that mirrored Patrick's own. Both were treasure hunters who thrived on the thrill of the chase but often let their obsessions take precedence over their families. Kage resolved to not let the same happen to John Booker.
The inside of Patrick's home feels cluttered but homely, filled with books, papers, and various artifacts that reflect his lifelong obsession with history and treasure hunting. Shelves are lined with books on history, archaeology, and legends, alongside old maps, globes, and dusty tomes. There's a worn leather couch and a coffee table usually covered with papers and notes, suggesting that Patrick spends a lot of time researching here.
The walls are decorated with framed maps, historical documents, and artifacts, emphasizing Patrick's passion for history. There might also be family photos, including pictures of Patrick with Kage, marking their shared interest in historical mysteries. The decor feels nostalgic and slightly outdated, showing Patrick's tendency to focus more on his research than on modernizing his home.
Patrick's home includes a dedicated study or office, filled with even more books and historical documents. This room likely contains a large desk covered in stacks of paper, open books, and old maps. The space has a scholarly feel, with low lighting from desk lamps and the musty scent of aged paper.
Kage noticed couple of novels on the table Woodsbro Murders, College Terror and Hollywood Horror. He remembered Velma and Teddi were avid fans of slasher films.
Kage muttered." Gale weathers and Sydney Prescott."He remembered hearing the serial killing spree that took place years ago. He was slightly suprised hearing about it, but more or less understood the fact the world is mixture of multiple movies or TV shows.
The second and third killing spree didn't didn't suprise him either. Since he knew plot of Scream movie till the third one.
Kage heard somone in the kitchen is practical and slightly worn, with older appliances and cabinets that reflect Patrick's modest lifestyle. The dining area has a small table, likely scattered with newspapers or more research papers rather than set for meals. This emphasizes Patrick's dedication to his work and somewhat solitary lifestyle.
When he walked in he saw Rennie Greene, she is Kage's lawyer friend.
Reenie has dark, shoulder-length hair that she often styles in loose waves or straightened for a sleek, professional look. Her eyes are a striking dark brown, often highlighted with subtle makeup that enhances her sharp, attentive gaze.She has a warm, medium complexion that gives her a healthy, vibrant look. Reenie has an athletic build, reflecting her active lifestyle and resilient nature. She wears tailored suits in neutral colors like black, navy, and gray, paired with crisp white blouses. Her outfits are always impeccably put together, reflecting her meticulous and professional.
She works at Pearson Hardman LLP, one of the top three major New York City law firms.
Rennie was drinking her coffee and seeing Kage smirked and said."So the special agent returns."
Kage smiled and replied."Yes, I am back and sorry to not call you, I have been kinda busy."
Rennie rolled her eyes and said."I know how these missions work, and I know how skilled you are. So I am not worried as much as Teddi, Patrick or Velma."
Kage knew she was lying, but didn't say anything and questioned."How is work?"
Rennie groaned and answered."It is very competitive, but I am managing it easily. I am mentoring a junior, her name is Dr.Joni Degroot. She is brilliant, funny and self-aware lawyer. But living with OCD, the poor girl has never wanted to be treated differently. It has pros and cons."
Kage was curious, while Rennie cominued."The cons are her symptoms take a toll on her personal and professional life, but here comes the good side her attention to detail allows her to see cases through a different lens."
Kage chuckled softly as Teddi and Velma rushed him, their hugs almost knocking the air out of him. He barely had time to brace himself before Velma muttered in relief, her voice thick with emotion, "It's good to see you in one piece."
Teddi nodded in agreement, her hands still gripping Kage's arms as if she wanted to ensure he wasn't some ghostly mirage. "Yeah," she said. Then, with a teasing smirk, she added, "Velma was worried sick about you."
Velma turned to glare at Teddi, crossing her arms. "Oh, like you weren't? You were pacing so much I thought you'd wear a hole in the floor."
Teddi raised her hands in mock surrender, a playful grin on her face. "Alright, guilty as charged."
Kage smiled warmly at the two women. He knew how much they cared about him, and it was moments like these that reminded him why he always came back, no matter how dangerous his missions were.
Patrick strolled into the scene, clapping his hands together to break the tension. "Alright, enough mother-henning for now. Let's get the barbecue started. I've already got everything set up."
Teddi turned to Kage, her eyes twinkling mischievously. "You're on grill duty. No getting out of it this time."
Kage raised an eyebrow but nodded with a smirk. "Fine, but only if you promise not to micromanage me."
Velma laughed softly, stepping aside to give Kage some breathing room. "You know she will anyway."
Teddi remembered something and turned to Kage. "While you were away, a woman named Karla Dixon called," she said thoughtfully, her voice carrying a hint of curiosity. "She told me that she's ready to take your deal."
Kage paused, processing the information. His expression remained calm, but his sharp eyes betrayed the calculations running through his mind. "Karla Dixon?" he repeated, almost to himself, as though filing the name into a mental ledger. He remembered a former US major, he wanted to recruit, but she was employed as a Forensics accountant.
"She didn't go into details," Teddi added, watching him closely. "But it seemed like she's been waiting for you."
Kage gave a curt nod, his mind already shifting to the implications of Karla's decision. "I'll handle it," he said, his tone decisive. "Thanks for letting me know."
As they moved toward the backyard, the warm atmosphere began to settle over them. The smell of charcoal and freshly prepared sides wafted in the air, mixing with the sound of faint laughter from other family members already gathered. For a brief moment, the weight of Kage's dangerous missions faded.