Welcome to Gaia! ::

I am working with much of time on this project. It is currently 110,000 words-ish. I have revised it and am in the middle of my edit. So if you see mistakes feel free to let me know 3nodding I have passed up publishing offers to keep working on it. I'm very into getting this done as good as I can. Of course I can't post the whole thing here, but I'll post various scenes and sequences. Feedback would be superbly appreciated blaugh
It's a Sci-fi bit with romance wherever I can fit it in.
Hope you enjoy *if you can stand reading it pirate

She was never far from home these days, just as her father asked.
Aerin was deep in the woods of Thorin, along with her mother beside the White River.
They were near a waterfall, which was among their most favorite places to spend time together.
Aerin was not a Dragon and neither was she Dragoon. Moving here after the death of her planet, Kauron had now become her home. Just as the Kristics, she closely resembled a human girl in her mid-to late teens.
Adopted in secret by Pracksus and Grace near the end of the Dawning War, she had since become their most beloved.
Like many other Eneyans, Aerin’s life force was drawn from her essence. After her arrival on Kauron, she’d used her Suri to heal the sick from a plague that ravaged the surrounding lands. At the end of the war, the Moirne plague had taken almost as many lives as any violent conflict.
The war, based on the fueds of the segregated clans, was ended by Aerin herself. Tending to the injured and sick under Pracksus’ command, she took it upon herself to restore the life of a captive Red Dragon; risking her very life in doing so. She had gotten close enough for the enemy to kill her, yet as cold and relentless as Red Dragons were accused of being, the one to whom she attended restrained from all violent courses, returning to its brood with the story of a girl: a girl that could heal.
With the need for peace rising on both sides, a truce was formed. In exchange for the girl’s healing of nearly a thousand Red Dragons, the Ruby Empire withdrew its forces from the north. The lands were then equally divided. The Dragons of earth, wind and water remained in the north, along with their counterparts, the Gray and White Dragons of wisdom and power; whereas the Ruby Empire laid claim to the southern lands of Burron.
It was shortly there after when Aerin became ill. She had overused her healing ability to such an extent where her very essence began to die. Desperate to save the life of the girl who had saved so many of their own, Pracksus called to the stars for Elzra: the girl’s previous master and mentor.
Since Elzra arrived, she helped them take care of the girl, teaching them about the forces of Eneyas, as well as its lesser essences: the stars which continued to wield its power. Retaining the essence of their world, Aerin and Elzra were able to make use of it. The essence was life. Expending that essence meant expending life.
Even knowing her fate soon to come, Aerin’s spirit remained. She also never spoke of it and seldom replied to any mention of it. She was young, and still so full of life.
Standing next to the river fed by the falls, she basked in the blanket of light that cast itself from above. Her brown, leather dress, worn to her ankles, was simple and clean, her dark blue hair waving smooth down her back. Her skin and face were pale, her eyes gleaming of subtle blue radiance, cast across the river in thoughtful poise.
Behind her sat Grace, a Benevolis Gray. As most female Dragons went, she was much smaller than her male counterparts. She had been won by Pracksus in his battle with Railx to achieve his rule of Kauron. And though it was a battle that won her as well, she loved him all the same, just as he had come to love her.
The two took care of one another, although now her charge involved mostly the caretaking and watch of their daughter.
Grace’s smooth, gray skin almost blended her into the rocks where she lay, with only the gentle blue glow of her eyes to reveal.
She shared in Aerin’s peaceful enjoyment of the water, the both of them poised serenely.
“What do you see?” Grace asked curiously.
Aerin remained quiet and still a moment longer, shifting in place from right to left. “In the water… I almost look like a Dragoon.”
Grace stood up from her rest, coming alongside her in close review.
The waters afoot ran quickly in churning swirls, twisting every reflection cast upon them, but as Grace looked into the water all she could see clearly was the gentle blue hue of her and her daughter’s eyes.
“And now,” Aerin smiled, “we almost look the same.”
Grace looked deeper, but as their reflections shifted and churned all she could still see clearly was the subtle glow of their eyes.
“Father said he would come today,” Aerin said softly. “So we could spend time together.”
“He will come,” Grace assured her, lifting her long neck towards the sky above.
Aerin bent down, running her hands through the water – she’d always enjoyed the feeling of the water streaming through her fingers.
Lifting her hands, she stood – her cupped right hand still retaining a pool of water.
Turning over her hand, the water fell; droplets of it freezing in place one after another.
Secretly, she manifested the slightest force of her power, holding the water mid-air, the largest of the droplets now surrounded where the smaller ones circled, like planets to a star. And as the light of a star, she gave the water light of its own, shining with a glimmer.
Grace saw the light, looking down at what Aerin had done, her hand still held closely as to guide the water’s form.
“Please,” Grace said softly. “Don’t do that.”
With reluctant pause, Aerin slowly clasped her hand, the droplets of water falling into the river.
She watched the one imbued with light as it returned, and just as its body spread back into the river, so did its light, until it was gone.
“Your life is too precious to waste.”
Aerin lowered her eyes heavily. “It didn’t hurt.”
“That’s not to say next time that it won’t,” Grace turned her long neck to look at her. “You know what Elzra has warned. When it hurts, then it will already be too late,” she nudged her daughter’s brow. “And I don’t want to lose you… any sooner than I have to.”
Aerin nuzzled against her mother’s jaw, petting her leathery hide. “You worry too much.”
“I’m your mother,” Grace reminded her. “I’m supposed to worry.”
As she spoke, Aerin noticed something wedged further back along her lower jaw. “I think you have something stuck in your teeth.”
Grace opened her mouth wide as Aerin looked in to investigate, discovering two chunks of meat that were wedged between her intermediate molars.
“This might take a minute,” Aerin attempted to pull the chunks of meat free by hand, but found them rooted deeply in place.
As she looked around she found a piece of wood and tried again to pry them out, but all they did was slide against the salivated flesh where she could hardly pry beneath it.
From the trees approached a Dragoon donned in silver plated armor, his skin of a dark gray. He stood just over two meters tall, his body scar-hardened and strong. The blue of his eyes narrowed as he witnessed the situation, soon realizing just what the two were up to.
Aerin heard him coming and looked his way.
“Ash,” she smiled, “think you could give us a hand?”
The Dragoon, armed with a wide variety of blades, reached for a small dagger at his side. “You know, for a moment – it looked like you were about to get eaten.”
Aerin glared with her hands on her hips. She made an effort not to laugh. “Mom would never do that.”
Grace opened her jaw towards the Dragoon, allowing him ample room to work.
Using the dagger to pick at the meat, Ash used his claws to guide it, slowly pulling one chunk free, and then the other.
Sheathing his knife, Ash tossed the meat chunks into his mouth.
Aerin eyed him a bit morbidly, but from him she should have expected as much.
Grace snapped her jaw twice, washing her mouth with her tongue as she moved to the river for a drink.
Ash looked thoughtful, his eyes wandering as if to draw a conclusion. “Lady Grace,” his words were robust with enthusiasm, “a recent kill? Doesn’t taste half bad.”
“Actually,” Grace replied, “I think that was from a few days ago or… maybe it was last week.”
Aerin shook her head with a hopeless glance as Ash continued chewing delightfully.
“Oh, where are my manners?” Ash pulled a piece of the meat from his mouth and offered it to Aerin. “Pretty well cured I’d say.”
“It’s all yours,” Aerin winced. How he could eat it was beyond her.
“Well,” Ash swallowed, “I just want you two ladies to know that I’ve secured the area, so uh, no worries.”
“Thank you,” Grace smiled.
Ash took himself back towards the trees where he would continue his watch. His task was a formality more than anything, but he took his role quite seriously. Also, Pracksus wasn’t one to count on a truce as the only means of protecting his daughter. Grace served as her guardian in most instances, but it was permissible for Aerin to go out on her own under his care as well.
“He never does let up, does he?” Aerin observed.
“That’s why your father chose him,” Grace looked on.
“He was a good choice,” Aerin agreed. “He talks a little funny, but I like him.”
“As do I,” Grace observed. “He has a kind heart.”
“He’s from the northern tribe isn‘t he?”
“That’s right.”
Aerin looked thoughtful, “weren’t they wiped out by the Reds?”
“Most of them,” Grace nodded, “but I don’t suggest talking about it with him. His family was killed during the attack. I don’t think he’ll ever forgive them.”
“I think I’ll go give him company,” Aerin walked ahead.
“Be careful,” Grace called, “and don’t go too far.”
Aerin caught up to him shortly, slowing to an equal stride.
Ash considered her presence with a moment’s regard. “You should stay with your mother.”
“I’m entitled to walk,” Aerin smiled. “It’s not like I’m getting old or anything.”
Ash looked up the approaching hill, tilting his spear to his side. He paused there briefly before turning to make his way south. “It’s my job.”
“So it’s just a job?”
“Well – it’s more than that,” he answered, “but that’s one way of putting it.” He almost came off sullen, but gave her a healthy smile to counter the impression. They were moving up another hill, this one towards a cliff not far ahead.
Reaching it, they looked over the valley below.
No matter how many times she saw it, Hockrin Thor as beautiful as ever. It was almost the season of the fall, the gentle glow of the orange sun cast over a ripening mix of earthen colors.
“This,” Ash motioned with his spear towars the view, “is one of the reasons I’m here.”
“And what are some of the other reasons?”
“Hope, maybe.” His eyes lowered distantly into the valley. “The idea that somehow – one day in the future – we can all live like this.”
“So you enjoy being a guardian?”
“That I do,” Ash straightened himself, his spear held steady. “At least, it’s a lot better than picking weeds and carrying wood.”
“I like the way you think,” she smiled, and then followed it shortly with a laugh.
“Then – what’s so funny?”
“You sound funny when you talk,” she toyed her foot against a rock, “not that I don’t take you seriously.”
“So,” Ash said thoughtfully, “what makes you stay here?”
“Good company is a start,” Aerin said blithely. “But, without any other place to call home, this was the next best choice.”
“I heard your world was destroyed by its own people,” Ash said heavily.
“Unfortunately.”
“I understand why others might compete for territory,” Ash winced, “but to destroy an entire world – that I do not understand.”
“Greed had a hand in it.”
“Humans and greed; Kristics too. I can’t say how often I hear those words together. I mean, when you have all that you need – why take more?”
“I wish I could answer that,” Aerin shrugged, “but I honestly don’t know. Fear, maybe.”
“Well I’m glad you’re here with us.”
Aerin replied with a smile. She closed her eyes, with her hands held open to bask in the forthcoming wind.
“Care to follow me as I finish my rounds?” Ash made towards the forest behind them, “seeing as how you enjoy my company.”
“Sure,” Aerin caught up to him. “I could probably show you a thing or two about this place.”
Ash laughed heartily. “By all means.”

“There is only so much a human being is capable of. It is important that we cooperate with our Kristic neighbors for both the sake of security, and for the future which must be preserved.” – Shawn Radburn: O.N.E. President.


VELLIS: 0912 HOURS
ABOARD THE ENDEAVOR


Zen and Sefira were strapped along the walls of the cargo hold, each on opposite sides. As regional Kristics they seemed almost Human but for the clear signs of their heritage.
In Zen’s case, she looked barely old enough to be a young woman, her pale skin glowing with subtle radiance as the silk-white of her hair lay long down her back. The bright azure of her eyes was a testament to her power: the essence from which she drew strength and life. Her white gown, formed of Geofilum, ran long down her figure, just past her knees.
Sefira on the other hand was different. Instead of a brightly lit color for her eyes, hers were cast in a storming darkness, churning with potency and purpose. Her skin was likewise pale, her golden hair as long as Zen’s. In contrast to her partner, her dress was black – equal in taste and elegant simplicity.
The cargo hold shook with vibration and a thundering force from outside.
From their positions, the two looked at each other with sharpening interest. It sounded like the ship had taken some damage- how much they couldn’t tell
“Sorry about that,” a voice called over the intercom. “O.N.E. forces are picking up the trash.”
“Zen, Sefira-” an older voice – male – chimed in. “I need you both to get ready.”
Disengaging their restraints, both of them stood fast, detaching black boxes from the walls that opened with a variety of armaments and individual equipment. Both slung their rifles, attaching belts whose bullets were made with diamond-etched tips, imbued with astral essences from the heart of Kristia itself.
“Remember,” the voice added, “you are to proceed to the extraction point and retrieve the package only. Under no circumstances are you to deviate from the mission.”
“We’ve had the brief, Leanus,” Sefira reminded him, securing her communicator.
“Well,” he replied, “it’s my duty to remind you - ETA in two minutes.”


Just behind the Endeavor - a silver ship whose narrow hull pierced the clouds ahead - was a cluster of battleships. Black Axephulum Juggernauts engaged with the smaller, but numerous forces of the O.N.E. and Kristic Fleet; their silver, regal-cast battleships struggling to hold the defensive line above all else.
Breaking through the clouds, Zen and Sefira looked through the port window upon the wreckage of the city below. Buildings lay toppled over, surrounded by fires that had burned for hours. The streets were broken, littered with ash and debris as a storming wind whirled in from the east; with it drew a moistened darkness that threatened of rain.
“What’s the situation on the ground?” Zen asked, holding to the safety straps as they continued their descent.
Sefira’s eyes flashed towards her, turning to look out the small port window at her side. Whatever had happened, seemed to have already come and gone, but their mission was still the same.
“The fleet is doing everything they can to prevent Axephulum ground units from reaching the surface,” Leanus explained. “They know what we’re after, so be on the lookout.”
“Might not have to look far,” Sefira commented, her eyes fixed on a narrow, black vessel that cut through the clouds to the east. Behind it, a pair of O.N.E. destroyers emerged, gunning it down with a brilliant force of blue and green streaming weapons. The Axephulum ship exploded, raining fiery hulks of debris into the city below.
“At least they’ve evacuated,” Sefira said quietly as her and her partner activated their tracers: small black boxes that contained all the data they needed, as well as their mission parameters.
The Endeavor turned sharply, forcing them to shift their weight as it settled.
“Looks like a park,” Leanus called in. “Take the most direct route possible. I don’t want either of you exposed any longer than you have to be.”
“Don’t worry so much,” Sefira said calmly, lifting her rifle towards the door.
With a heavy thud and the sound of metal grinding on concrete, the doors shifted with a hydraulic hiss, revealing the open park now ahead. Two hundred meters beyond were the outskirts of the city with rubble and ruin lining its borders.
Without hesitation, Zen and Sefira darted fast ahead, racing between trees and other forms of cover in their approach. Together they watched their 360, covering each other’s backs: as one would move the other providing security.
Part Exodian, Sefira reached out with her senses. “I’m not getting anything,” she spoke softly.
Zen on the other hand was reliant on her visual and audio acuity, paying close attention to her surroundings.
“I’ve got it,” Sefira reviewed her tracer. The building marked was only five blocks ahead. She could even make it out in the haze of the distance. It was one of the few large buildings left standing. Smoke billowed from the windows, but it hardly mattered, they were going underground.
“Me too,” Zen added softly. “Want me to take point?”
“No need,” Sefira advanced, keeping close to cover as she approached the corner of the first building. Bodies littered the streets, all of them dead as far as she could tell. In the distance were a few figures; some of them crying where others were clearly injured. “Is Medevac available?”
“Only for priority targets,” Leanus answered.
“Understood.”
Zen paused to consider the injured ahead, but maintained her course. Both of them took up either side of the war-torn street, moving fast.
“Lady!” a man called, his leg broken and bleeding where he fought to stand. He looked utterly horrified, but there was nothing they could do for him. “My son is hurt! The Medevacs pulled out before we could reach them, and my leg,” he cried, leaning up against a broken craft as he continued to bleed, “I need help!”
Sefira strode by. There was nothing they could do for him. Zen paused, speaking gently, “you need to sit down and stay calm. Help will arrive as soon as it can.” Eyeing Sefira’s steady advance, she continued ahead.
“Lady please,” The man called desperately, “you have to help me!”
Neither of them replied, holding their course.
The next street was open, clear of but a few bodies that had long since been dead. A band of looters emerged from a store with their arms loaded with stolen goods. As soon as they sighted the armed pair and recognized their heritage, they turned tail and ran with as many of the goods as they could carry. No one pursued them.
The third and fourth blocks revealed nothing of excitement or interest, merely obstacles to be circumvented.
Approaching the fifth block, Zen and Sefira observed the scene. All but one of the glass paneled doors had had been broken in. Nodding to one another, they rushed in with their rifles held ready, peering right and left around the corners as they entered. Without light, both of them switched the lamps on their weapons to pierce the darkness ahead. They explored separate hallways and fell back to confer with each other.
Sefira had already identified the route and gestured towards it. Zen replied with a nod, following carefully behind her. “Can you sense anything?”
Sefira focused without stopping. “There’s something here.”
“Axephulum?”
“Yes.” Hunting those of her own kind was something Sefira had grown accustomed to, but her senses were somehow off, as if repressed by something forceful.
Ahead of them was an elevator; lights flickered from a small panel beside it. Together they advanced towards it. Sefira made an attempt at the controls.
“Will it work,” Zen asked, observing her tracer. “I don’t see it on the schematic.”
“We’re screwed if it doesn’t,” Sefira stepped into the elevator as its doors parted.
The lights inside were dim and flickering. Power had been surging from all the damage. They were lucky it was even working at all.
Both doors slid shut as the elevator descended.
“How close?” Zen asked.
“I’m not sure,” Sefira said coldly as her eyes narrowed towards the floor, “but I hope we’re not too late.”
“They’d have left if they found it.” Zen said certainly.
“Unless they wanted us to think otherwise,” Sefira pointed out. “We’ll know soon enough.”
The elevator stopped, opening into a narrow hall. Of the several lights that hung from above, only one was working, flooding the corridor with brief flashes of light. Three inches of standing water, flowing from somewhere in the distance covered the floor.
The ground shook with reverberant force, presumably from an assault on or close to the surface. One of the ceiling’s upper supports gave way, collapsing with a pile of cemented debris in front of them.
A distant breath caught Zen’s attention as she paused, panning her aim carefully into the dark at her sides. There, the shadowy forms of several emerging figures rose up from the water. Their eyes were narrow with fire, their bodies black as night itself.
As soon as Zen fired left, Sefira panned right. Instinct told her to help her partner, but her training told her to check the other flank.
The astral shards of the Kristic weapons burst brilliantly against the shadows, consuming their ghostly form. With such an instant effect, only the shortest of screams managed to escape them. Unlike the living, the screams of the dead lingered, fading from one to the next in a sea of noise.
Zen couldn’t tell how many there were and neither could Sefira. They just kept coming from both the water and the walls, arms flailing wildly.
Zen had to drop her rifle, igniting her essence to from barriers of light that served to protect her and her partner.
Sharing in the same essence as her enemy, Sefira’s body lit with a violet-black flame. Careful as to avoid hitting her partner, she thrust her arms forcefully to her sides, guiding the flame in a sweeping motion around them.
Weapons of darkness sliced through the air as the frenzy of shadows were forced to retreat. The weapons struck harmlessly into Zen’s projection of light.
As the flames subsided, only a handful of the shadows remained lining the walls.
Sefira had just recovered as Zen bore the beam of her rifle upon them, firing a series of bursts that claimed two as the others melded into the walls out of sight.
Sefira reached out with her senses. She’d felt them come up, but only as they did. They were hiding from her by a means she’d never encountered before. Aside from her there was a strong Axephulum presence. It wasn’t from the shadows, but from something much deeper ahead. “I don’t see any more, do you?”
Zen panned her rifle around, just to be sure, “no, nothing here.”
Reaching for her communicator, Sefira keyed in. “Leanus, it’s official; we’re not alone down here.”
“How many?”
“Unknown.”
“Let’s just hope the package is still secure.”
“And if it isn’t?” Zen advanced.
“Then things are about to get a lot worse,” Sefira answered.
“Just keep moving,” Leanus added lastly. “At any rate, we won’t know until you arrive.”
“We’ll keep you posted,” Sefira moved to join her comrade.
The hall came to a T where it merged into another.
Zen panned her tracer to the right. “The lab.”
Sefira panned left. “This way,” she motioned, moving cautiously ahead. Crossing over the source of the standing water: a broken pipe, she began down the stairs, bringing them into the next level below: the power facility. The generator itself was still running, but the fuse box it was plugged into was slightly damaged.
“We’ll have to kill the power,” Zen pointed out.
Sefira had almost forgotten. They could ignore the electrical surges from the wires in the water, but the personnel inside, assuming they survived, wouldn’t have that advantage. Before she could think much more about it, Zen had already turned off the power.
Sefira turned sharply one way, then another, her expression narrow.
“What is it?” Zen looked around, her rifle at the ready.
“They’re still here,” Sefira looked towards a shadowed and distant wall. “They’re watching us.”
“In here?”
“No, but close.”
“Well that makes things difficult.”
“We’re being followed,” Sefira tapped her communicator.
“Not much can be done about that,” Leanus replied. “The order is still the same. Even if no one survives, the package has to be delivered, no matter the cost.”
“Understood,” Sefira closed the link, slipping through the open door into an adjoining room. This one was almost empty, filled mostly with cabinets and lockers.
“It’s close,” Zen announced, glancing forward, then back- her weapon trained center. She pointed it towards the next door as Sefira held rear security.
This entrance opened into a narrow hall ending in a vaulted door. Next to it was a terminal and keypad.
“This is it,” Zen said as she went inside, with Sefira trailing slowly behind her.
At the terminal, Zen entered a series of codes. The vault shifted and clicked, unlocking. As she pried the heavy door open, a field of Astral energy glowed softly behind it, providing illumination for everything inside. The Astral source was Eneyan; as such it wouldn’t harm Zen in the least, but for Sefira it was an obstacle.
“Go ahead,” her partner tilted her head, “I’ll stay here.”
“We shouldn’t separate,” Zen looked for a way to deactivate the barrier.
“If you lower the field there won’t be anything to keep them out,” Sefira reminded her. “That’s what it’s there for.”
“You’re right,” Zen admitted.
“There’s only a few of them,” her partner assured her. “I can handle it.”
“I’ll try to hurry,” Zen ran inside.
Sefira glanced inward. The entryway bent around a corner, and Zen was fast out of sight. With her senses tingling sharply, she returned her attention to the previous hall, where at the far end now stood a ghastly figure; a wraith whose eyes shone like molten fire. She held the beam of her light towards it, waiting for it to try anything stupid. Shortly after, it was joined by two others of lesser form – all keeping their distance.
What are they waiting for? She winced, her aim held sharp.
“Well if it’s not one thing- it’s another,” Leanus called, mildly distressed. “One of the enemy Harbingers just broke through the perimeter, inbound south of your location. If they make that landing they’ll have reinforcements in as little as a few minutes.”
“Oh-- how wonderful,” Sefira answered soft and dry.
“O.N.E. Independence is dispatching Paladins for your support. They’ll cover the surface to provide security.”
“Assuming they don’t get here first,” Sefira said with a wince.
“No promises.”


Zen turned another corner ahead, finding herself at the end of the winding hall. Here was the final door to their objective: a port window allowing her to peer inside. With a solid strike against it, she got the attention of the one who had been waiting inside.
The young man approached the door and observed her carefully before opening the way inside.
As the door shifted out, Zen rushed inside.
Upon the table at the center was a long, armored box. Along its side was a label that read N-01.
“Is that it?” Zen asked in a hurry.
“It is,” his gaze narrowed on it eerily, as if he were afraid of it.
“We need to take it and get out of here - now!” Zen came alongside the table, but as she reached for the box, a fierce brilliance of violet light stormed from into her body. The sudden force knocked her flat on the floor, unconscious.
The young man ran to her side, checking her condition. There was no way to tell if she was alive, but with her subtle glow it didn’t look like she was dead either.


Sefira felt a terrible and sudden disturbance.
Zen was in trouble.
With the wraiths ahead of her, and the Eneyan barrier behind her, the options available were looking grim.
“Something’s wrong,” Leanus confirmed, “Zen’s tracer just went out.”
“I can’t see her,” Sefira tensed, thumbing her communicator. And why are they just standing there? She narrowed her eyes dead-ahead.
“The enemy Harbinger has already landed,” Leanus added. “Whatever you do, you need to get the package and get out of there now.”
There was only one thing she could do, and it was hardly the wisest idea.
Turning, she dashed through the barrier. She felt its energy burn against her body, forcing her Exodian essence to seethe from within. Instantly she felt weak, overcome by the influence of the light, but it didn’t inhibit her as outright as she’d anticipated. Zen hadn’t gone far. It was just a matter of catching up to her and to find out what’d happened.
Making the corner into the room, she could hardly see – her senses in disarray. The Suri of her essence began burning inside the Kanni that composed her body, fuming the air with a violet haze.
Zen lay upon the floor, the figure of someone – presumably human – standing over her.
Sefira stumbled, her body burning as she reached towards her partner.
Whoever the human was, he backed away in a scurry of fear. The fact that her body burned against the light was not a positive introduction.
“I’m not Axephulum,” Sefira’s voice was almost inaudible, but none the less determined.
Zen woke up, pushing herself fast to her feet. She was mildly confused, but as she saw her partner struggle, her senses sharpened fast. “Sefira!”
Her counterpart opened her mouth as her body continued to seethe, her words growing distant, “… lost contact.”
“What are you doing?” Zen held onto her. She was afraid of the box, but her partner’s life was also in danger. “Can you carry that?” Her eyes darted between the man and the box.
He eyed the silver box wearily.
“Carry it,” Zen ordered, making her exit.
The man took up the box shakily, holding it gingerly his side.
Zen looked back only a moment to ensure he was following, and as he made his way into the hall she continued. “We’ve got company, so I suggest you stay close.”
“Company?” He said fearfully.
“Damn,” Sefira said dully, drug by Zen as her body began to deteriorate.
Reaching the end of the barrier, Zen dropped Sefira outside as she drew up her rifle, aiming it down the hallway with a pie-panning motion.
The man came out behind her. “Is… is it safe out here?”
Already Sefira’s body began to recompose, healing from the loss of her essence. The result left her with little energy to spare, but at least she was alive.
“What’s your status,” Leanus called. “Someone talk to me.”
“This is Zen, Sefira is down for the moment.”
“Is she okay?”
“I think so.”
“I feel like trash,” Sefira said weakly, pushing herself upright. “Let’s get this over with.”
Three sets of eyes menaced from beyond the darkness of the hallway. Zen lifted her rifle, ready to shoot, her finger flinching closely to the trigger; but then she stopped. “Why are they just standing there?”
“Biding time,” Sefira stood shakily. Zen extended a hand to help her to her feet while keeping her weapon trained ahead. The human hugged the wall, scared out of his wits. He almost dropped the box as Sefira took it from him.
“You might not have long,” Leanus warned, “Paladin units are intercepting, but there’s no telling what might get through.”
“I’m not a big fan of stalemates,” Sefira aimed her rifle, single-handedly on the wraith ahead- and fired. The shot pierced the darkness between them, engulfing the Axephulum in its path. The remaining two parted ways screeching with their arms flailing wildly.
“Now!” She pushed Zen forward, the man following closely behind her. He tried to get between them, to wedge himself in safety, but there was hardly anything safe about it.
With careful stride and footing, Zen placed well-aimed shots both left and right.
Both wraiths vanished, but as they reappeared, they were joined by several others, each varying in size.
“Get out of here!” Sefira gathered a darkness that swirled around her, sparking her essence into a storm of shadowy flame.
Zen grabbed the man and threw him into the room with the generator, hitting the floor close beside him.
The dark blast shot over them both and Zen felt the essence wash over her. Standing instantly she peered into the room where Sefira now lay still. The wraiths were gone, or so it seemed, but now Sefira had really overdone it.
“Wait here,” Zen motioned, leaping down beside her partner. Collecting her up by her side, she held the box at the other. Touching it made her cringe, but only for a moment.
“We have to hurry,” she ran past the man, nudging him to follow. “What’s your name?”
“Bishop.”
Sefira seemed pretty out of it, dropping her rifle on the floor.
“Take that,” Zen ordered.
Bishop slung the weapon over his shoulder, inspecting it briefly.
“If it’s not us, shoot it.” Zen moved ahead.

Richter was seated along the side of the transport: a bus-like vessel that traversed nearly half of the city before reaching its limits. Trenain’s massive skyscrapers dwarfed the lesser structures of the industrial district. It reminded him of home, though much darker in contrast. The shuttle tilted – passing over the outer market, then to the commons where the last of the city met with the forest and park of Dilune.
It was here they’d agreed to meet: gate five.
As the shuttle descended, Richter made his way towards the exit, the doors opening swiftly with a rush of fresh-clean air washing over him. It’d been so long since he’d breathed natural air, and the difference over the years became more and more noticeable.
He got off with two others that made their way towards the small square station ahead, but he didn’t need to go any further. The road where he stood split three ways, two of which lead back into the city. The third shot straight ahead of him into the outskirts of the park.
Looking at his watch he realized he was almost half an hour early. Better than being late.
Behind him, the transport took off, resuming its route throughout the city.
This was the place, so he didn’t want to go too far. At least he was away from the ship. The odds of seeing anyone he knew were slim. He’d even managed to ditch Caleb. Normally he wouldn’t mind, but this was too important to be fooling around, at least for him.
I wonder what she thinks about all this.
Coming upon a small, wooden bench, he sat down. Zen was going to Kristia after this, and he knew, no matter how much he didn’t want to, that he probably wasn’t going to see her again. There wasn’t really anything he could do about it, nothing realistic anyway. I’ve never felt this way about anyone before. I can’t let it end like this, but, what can I do?
“Hello Richter Etrenank.”
The voice half-startled him. Looking towards her strangely, he remembered who she was.
“Sefira… what are you doing here?”
“Just tagging along, but I’m also here to make sure you don’t try anything unwarranted.”
“I wasn’t intending to.”
“Alright,” Sefira sat down beside him. “So explain it to me then if you don’t mind. Why are you interested in Zen?”
“She’s an interesting person,” Richter said simply.
“But that’s not the only reason.” Sefira eyed him, folding her arms.
Richter felt the weight of her eyes, looking back. She definitely knew, so trying to hide it would probably do more harm than good. “Listen,” he said flatly, “if you’re worried about it, the chances of us seeing each other again are slim to none.”
“That bothers you.” Sefira observed. “So – why a Kristic anyway? I mean, you look healthy and you seem to have a decent career. There are probably a lot of women out there that would be more than happy to have you.”
“Even if there were,” Richter answered, “it wouldn’t matter.”
Sefira looked at him curiously, noting a subtle, yet fervent expression. “Oh, really?”
“Did you come here to make me change my mind?” Richter glared. “Did you come here to tell me to back off? What have I done wrong? I only asked to see her again. It’s not even a date.”
“Hmm-,” Sefira kicked her legs, one over the other. “Don’t get me wrong, she’s my partner. It’s not only my job, but it’s my responsibility to look out for her. When I heard you were interested, I thought you might be a creep or something, and I haven’t let go of the idea just yet. You see, Zen’s open minded and she’s also curious. She can be a little naïve when dealing with others, and that’s just the thing. The both of us haven’t dealt with humans very much. As a counterbalance to her studying the good side of people, I’ve been studying the darker side of human behavior. Needless to say,” she held her hands out to her sides, “there’s a lot to look out for.”
“So you think I’m a creep?”
“Actually,” Sefira settled her hands gently upon her knees, “stalker was the term that came to mind. Of course, she disagreed, but I figured I owed it to her to look into it.”
Richter shook his head. “I give you my word. I won’t do anything to hurt her. That’s not what this is about.”
“Then what is it about?”
“I just want – to be her friend,” Richter said sincerely. “I can’t say why, but I feel drawn to her. Everything about her is just so –,”
“Interesting?” Sefira finished.
“Well,” Richter sighed, “a bit more than that. I’m sorry if that bothers you.”
“Tell you what,” Sefira said with an air of appeal. “I don’t think my coming along will be much good for either of us. Try anything stupid and I’ll have your head. Otherwise you two can go ahead and have a blast. I’m pretty sure she’ll enjoy it anyway.”
“Thanks,” Richter said dryly.
Sefira stood up, walking past him. She stopped just as her shadow was cast over him, allowing an icy chill to form from her essence towards him.
Richter suddenly shivered, unaware that it was her intention.
“But if you turn out to be a creep Richter Etrenank,” Sefira glared, “you’ll pay for it dearly. And that’s my promise to you.” She smiled, striding off into the forest.
Richter was glad to be alone, but now his feelings were even more complicated. Maybe it’s best if I just go away and forget all about it. But even as he rested his head into his hands, he knew he couldn’t. For better or for worse, he was going to make the most of it.
Distantly came another shuttle. Looking at his watch, he realized it was time.
The transport landed on the designated pad, opening its doors. A handful of persons emerged.
Among them, Zen stood out like the sun breaking the afternoon clouds. At least it appeared that way to him.
Zen’s eyes panned only for a moment, finding him where he stood.
Richter smiled, but he tried to tone down his excitement. His heart was already racing enough as it was.
She still wore the same white dress – clean and bright as ever. At least it looked the same. Looking at her, Richter couldn’t help but wonder why or how?
“Good afternoon,” she smiled in front of him.
“How are you?” Richter asked.
“I’m fine,” her expression remained, gesturing ahead. “Shall we then?”
Richter nodded, walking alongside her as they made their way into the park.
“I was hoping to get out like this,” Zen told him. “I was actually glad when you called about it.”
Pausing, Zen looked around. “Sefira said she’d be waiting for us.”
“Oh. She was here,” Richter explained, “but she said she’d leave us alone.”
“Did she tell you why?”
Richter made a sour expression. “She’s worried I might be a creep.”
“Yeah,” Zen continued the path ahead of them. “She worries. We tend to do that for each other.”
“It’s no problem,” Richter added. “I understand. I’m actually glad you have someone looking out for you like that.”
“Well,” Zen said pleasantly, “at least it seems you’re feeling better.”
Richter gestured her dress. “I know you wear it all the time, but how do you keep it clean?”
“It’s not absorbent like most fabrics,” Zen answered. “Of course, I rinse it with my daily bath.”
“Do you have any other clothes?”
“Some,” Zen nodded, “but they’re not as resistant. Given the tactical situation, my efforts may be called on at any time. I’d prefer to stay in something that would hold up regardless.”
Richter took a bend towards the lake. For a few moments, they shared only in the silence of each other’s company.
It was only when Zen stopped by the water, leaning down to reach into it, that the silence was broken.
Richter found himself looking down at her, longing for something; to be closer, to be anything she needed. But then again, What does a Kristic need from a Human?
Zen continued down the path ahead. “Was there something you wanted to do?”
“I hadn’t made any specific plans,” Richter admitted. “Wherever we go – whatever we do, is fine by me.”
“And how long do you have?”
“All night.”
“That’s good. You probably needed the break.”
“Need, no; want – yes.”
“And you could have done any number of things,” Zen added, “but you asked to spend your time with me.”
“Well, if it’s alright with you, I’d like to know more about you.”
“That’s fine,” Zen nodded.
Richter considered his current situation. Why do I keep feeling like this anyway? Will it go away, or – will I just have to deal with it?
Zen glanced long enough to interpret his thoughtful expression. She knew how he felt and she also knew how to relieve at least some of his stress, and it was a safe measure all the same. Reaching out, she took his hand.
Richter’s heart went from racing to feeling like it was about to freeze in place, but moments later he felt an overwhelming calm. He realized that this is why she did it. Just like her and Caleb both had told him, Kristics were very open in regards to friendship, and maybe this was why; to keep tensions low. At any rate, he accepted it.
“There’s one thing I like about other worlds that Kristia doesn’t have,” Zen announced.
“And what’s that?”
Zen made a series of brief gestures. “The forests. We have mountains, rivers lakes and such, but our trees aren’t near as many – one here, one there.”
“I’ve seen pictures,” Richter replied. “Kristia is made up mostly of crystal right?”
“And minerals.”
“I guess that’s the beauty of it.” Richter appeared thoughtful once more. “Zen, what would you say is the most beautiful thing you’ve ever seen?”
“Wow,” Zen said softly, contemplating. “There’s a question with broad spectrum.” She paused for a moment, filtering her choices. “The recession of neutrons in a dying star.”
Her answer caught Richter off guard.
“Just kidding,” she tilted her view slightly. “I once asked someone a similar question, and that’s the answer they gave me. I thought it was rather amusing.” She reaffirmed her grip on his hand. “But to answer your question, I’d have to say – birth. The genesis of life in all forms is simply without comparison.”
“You’re a full Kristic right?”
“That’s right,” she explained. “By measure of the value between our Kanni and Suri, the latter being the measure of our essence.”
“I understand,” Richter told her. “We have a similar measure for determining bloodlines.”
Zen eyed him. “And what do you find most beautiful, Richter Etrenank?”
He looked ahead, thoughtful and calm – Besides you? His tension slowly increased, noticeable only by his grasp, however slight. “Stars – they’re full of surprises.”
Zen became thoughtfully engaged with the environment, but in Richter’s case, he hadn’t come for the scenery. He’d come for her, and it was enough to be alongside her.
So far only other humans had passed by, many issuing brief glances both strange and curious. It wasn’t common that Kristics and humans were paired outside official business.
“I guess we seem a little strange,” Richter said simply as another onlooker passed by.
“I don’t mind,” Zen assured him.
Not far aside was a lagoon, hidden almost entirely from sight. Zen noticed it, and with a brief gesture, led Richter towards the tall, grassy opening that revealed its presence. Above, the tall trees loomed to form the canopy, their greenery drooping long from above. Among them, light still managed its way in, spreading from the water nearby to the bank that withheld it.
“This is a nice place,” Zen glowed with interest.
Richter surveyed the area. It was quiet and relatively secluded.
“I can only imagine how much life there is in a place like this,” Zen stood still along the bank.
“Quite a bit I’d imagine,” Richter concurred.
“Mind if we sit here a while?” Zen looked up to him, her eyes gleaming soft.
Richter nodded, settling himself on the grassy surface. Zen sat down beside him, toying with a blade of grass between her fingers.
“Richter,” Zen said tentatively. “The last thing I want to do is hurt you, or cause you pain. So – I’d like to know what you think about this: about us being friends.”
“Value doesn’t quite sum it up right. I know you’re people – at least the civilians – have common relationships that border on what we might call intimate. As far as us being friends – as close as we can be; I’d be happy with that.”
“Is that really how you feel about it?”
“Yes.”
“Then,” Zen said carefully, “do you mind if I get closer?”
“Not at all.”
Zen laid herself sideways over his thighs, resting her arms loosely into the grass alongside him.
Richter felt a tingling sensation, but managed to keep himself in check. He could see the corners of her eyes, looking out over the water, then to the grass; and between the two of them. He wanted to touch her – to reach out and course his fingers through her hair, but somehow, it felt forbidden.
“Thanks for coming with me today,” Zen said quietly. “I know you asked me, but I’m still grateful.”
“It’s no problem.” Several responses jarred in his head, but in a state of ambivalence it was the best he could do.
“You know,” Zen began, “Sefira keeps asking why I even bother with you.”
“And why do you ‘bother’ with me?”
“Before we joined the Protectorate, we weren’t really allowed to spend a lot of time with others. Schooling was relatively strict. Later, when I met Sefira, we were partnered and we could spend a lot of time together. That’s pretty much how we bonded. Since joining as an operative, I don’t have the same restrictions I used to, but now I never have the time. You, well – you sort of became an opportunity for me and I didn’t hesitate.”
“An opportunity?”
“Circumstances provided,” Zen smiled. “If you weren’t so well behaved, it wouldn’t have gone this far. You’re also good company.”
“Well,” Richter said plainly, “I’m glad you think so.”
Zen sounded a faint laugh. “I do. Now I never did buy much into this personal restriction garbage. If people want to talk, they should talk. If they want to hold each other, they should hold each other. The only difference is romance, but even that’s just an idea really.”
“How do you mean?”
“Think about it,” Zen continued. “The lines are drawn on activities when two beings, or people come together exclusively in difference to others. Take the act of kissing for example. Humans and Kristics both share the belief that kissing is reserved for people you feel deep affection towards, and that different types of kissing relate to how you feel about that person. It’s almost like art.”
“Art,” Richter inquired.
“Art is defined,” Zen answered, “but, it’s also open to interpretation.”
“That’s one way to put it I suppose.”
“When a thing is done between two people, it is perceived by the first person, then the second, and then by others consisting of the outside perspective. All of these people may have a different interpretation of the same, single act. I think that’s why it’s so important for people to agree on things.”
“Sounds like you’ve looked pretty far into it,” Richter commented.
“Actually,” Zen replied, “along with good communication, it helps prevent a number of problems.” She thumbed his leg, stirring a reaction.
Richter jolted. “Hey now.”
“What did that feel like?” Zen asked mischievously.
“It tickled,” Richter answered tensely.
Zen pushed herself up, looking into his eyes. “I thought as much.”
Richter shifted a hand towards retreat.
“You’re tense,” she told him, digging her fingers into his side. She knew exactly where to go.
Forced to the ground, Richter laughed helplessly into a sprawl. He pushed and wiggled, but she was adamantly in place. Even as fluid as her every motion was, however seemingly frail – he couldn’t stop her.
“That’s not fair!” He called, laughing into a cough.
“We’re at war,” Zen teased. “Nothing is fair in war now is it?”
“Why,” he laughed, “why are you doing – this?”
Zen relented, easing her hands from his sides to his chest; her legs cinched to his hips where she held him pinned.
Richter heaved, catching his breath with a long look into her eyes. He couldn’t help but smile and the sense of overall relief was comforting. In that brief moment, most of his stress had left him.
Rolling off to his side, Zen lay upon the grass, gazing towards the bright blue sky. Above, clouds rolled to offer brief moments of shade, passing as the sun made its return warmly upon them.
Laughing, Richter shook his head. “What inspired that?”
“You needed it.”
“I did?”
“Yes – you did.”
“Maybe,” Richter sighed, crossing one leg over the other into a T.
“So,” Zen rolled her head towards him, “no revenge?”
Richter glared at her, “as if. You’re practically impervious.”
“How do you know?” Zen smiled.
He sensed the lure in her tone, and it was all the permission he needed. She could have gotten away from him. He was sure of that much, but she didn’t. Maybe she wanted to play fair after all.
Rolling himself over her, he asserted himself firmly.
Zen lay as if helpless, smiling with a laugh.
Richter shook his head, poking at her sides. Her body felt more firm than a Human’s, but still soft to the touch. Shortly, he felt embarrassed for even trying, his face blushing red. “Well there you have it- impervious.”
“I’m not impervious Richter,” her expression dimmed slightly. “Just like you, I can be killed.”
“Maybe,” he replied, “but at least you don’t have to worry about me.”
Zen grappled his legs with her own, throwing him back as she straddled her way over him. Their landing spread a heap of leaves into the air, along with a puff of natural debris.
Richter felt more excited, but it was easier to deal with. “Someone’s aggressive.”
“Haven’t you ever played before?”
“Yeah – when I was like ten.”
“That’s unfortunate. For such short lifespans, humans seem to fancy the idea of decrepit maturity a bit more than they should.”
“What’s that supposed to mean?”
Zen shook her head. “You only get old when you choose to stop living.” She pulled him to his feet, resuming her place along the bank. Again, Richter sat down beside her.
“Feeling better?” she eyed him.
“A lot actually.”
“Behold the many benefits of keeping things simple,” she picked up a small stick, observing it close.
“Simple huh,” Richter repeated.
“It has its advantages,” Zen handed him the stick.
“What’s this for?” He took it, looked at it – then shrugged.
“What’s it matter,” she looked back ahead. “You took it didn’t you?”
Richter shook his head. “You’re strange.”
“Well as long as we can accept that about each other, we’ll get along just fine.” She shifted her gaze towards him, her eyes meeting his.
Richter smiled. “Did I tell you I was glad we met?”
Zen nodded. “I’m pretty sure you did.”
“I really meant it.”

♥ I'll need to read this soon... I haven't had the time yet sad ♥

♥ Pink99Chick (Lady Pinksalot Taco Ranger)

What is a Taco Ranger?
Click Here | Be a Taco Ranger! | The Taco Clan

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You still have to give me a copy of your book.

i'd like it signed.

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♥ Pink99Chick (Lady Pinksalot Taco Ranger)

What is a Taco Ranger?
Click Here | Be a Taco Ranger! | The Taco Clan

heeheee

i'm so excited now!

omg when will you send it?!??!?!?!?!?!?!
i want it nowwwwww

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So0o0o0o0ooo... any updates?

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♥ Pink99Chick (Lady Pinksalot Taco Ranger)

What is a Taco Ranger?
Click Here | Be a Taco Ranger! | The Taco Clan