Wain
Beaman
Those gathered anthro’s stared in horror
at Millar, who formed a soft, wavering image before them all. Millar gazed back
at them in understanding.
“Meldaron – ” Silverfox began.
“Meldaron – ” Replied Millar’s telepathic
response. “Has fallen to the invading Schinicin forces. It is in you,
the resistance, which the future of this world rests. Only
you, with your resolve and understanding , can reclaim your world…our…world.
If you fail, then all will surely pass in to legend, and you’ll
live as servants of the dark and vile Emperor.”
“What…what of our beloved friend Mack?” Glider sniffled.
“Of him, I shall not speak of…. I
shall take him with me, when I leave – and leave I must….”
“Why?” Why must you leave us – in our greatest hour
of need?” Silverfox wept bitterly.
Millar looked down at Silverfox compassionately. “My
child – I’ve already done much harm, in coming to you all.”
“For of what do you speak?” Deerinea asked.
“I must not directly meddle in the affairs of my young.
You alone – must decide the fate of yourselves – and
your world. Will you overcome your enslavement by the reptilian Schinicin’s?
Or will you be content to live under the Empire’s yoke? How
many worlds have the Schinicin taken – how many millions of lives sacrificed
in vain – their lives wasted in useless and inept resistance? You
all are fortunate, in many ways. You thwarted the Schinicin invasion once –
now, do you have the ability – to do it once again?”
“I…we…do not understand….” Silverfox
sniffled.
“Yes….” Millar replied cryptically. “There
is much – much indeed – that you do not comprehend about this war.
I can not interfere in this –, as it is within you all – that the
true Meldaron lies. I wish I could help you – but alas, I can not….”
With that, the ethereal image of Millar broke apart and dissolved. Above them,
the clouds began breaking up and dissipating in to the atmosphere, leaving behind
the stunned Anthro’s and hyooman, who still was reeling from his near
death experience.
“Silverfox – ” Deerinea whispered. “Mack…he’s
gone!”
Silverfox twisted about, then stared at the blood spattered mud, where her beloved
friend’s body had lain – now – there was nothing of him….
“Why? Why has Millar taken him?” Silverfox
wept bitterly. “He should have been left – as is our way….”
“From the earth we come – and to the earth we return,”
Deerinea spoke quietly. “Such as has always been….”
Drak moaned, then picked himself up and brushed the mud from
his face. “Now what? We’ve got no ship – and no idea
where we are….”
Deerinea looked up at the night sky, and then she shook herself
and took her bearings. “If I am not mistaken – this is the Vallins
River, that orginates in the Netherworld Cliff’s.”
“How do you know that?” Drak growled in displeasure.
Deerinea turned on him and withered him with a look. “Unlike
you – I know how to navigate by the stars….”
“What about our weapons – our supplies?” Glider moaned. “We’ll
starve!”
Deerinea looked up at the moon, then back at the cold and
frightened companions. “No – we won’t starve…but we
can not stay here. Undoubtably, the Schinicin will come looking for us…and
I want to get as much distance between us and the ground search party, as we
can manage.”
Glider shuddered…and not only with the cold.
“They’re going to chase us…aren’t they?”
Silverfox asked.
“If we do not get out of here…then they will not have
to chase us. Yes. They will come looking for survivors of the crash….
That is just a formality. They honestly will not think that anyone had survived
the crash…but if we do not make ourselves scarce – then we’ll
find ourselves being entertained – at his Imperial majesties pleasure….
I am quite sure – that none of us want that.” Deerinea shuddered.
“Come on – let’s move out. We’re out of time….”
Sadly, the companions retrieved what
few supplies that they had – then began heading northeast, towards the
small village of Silverstar Tree. Their heads bowed, footsteps slow, but ceaseless.
They all knew the risks of being caught out in the open, as it was only a matter
of time, before the Schinicin came looking for them.
Some hours later, Deerinea called a halt. “We’re
going to have to travel mainly at night. It’s safer this way….”
“How far do you think we’ve travelled?” Glider asked.
“Only about eight miles….” Deerinea replied. “We’re
cold…weak and hungry. Still, we’ve got too keep moving.”
“It’s going to take forever to get to the temple!”
Drak swore.
Deerinea glared at him. “Would you prefer to spend the rest
of your life in a Schinicin prison camp?”
Drak hesitated, then looked away. “No – of course not.”
Glider moved off in to the shadows, then his soft voice called
out. “Hey – I’ve found a cave…or something.”
Deerinea glared again at Drak then made her way to where Glider stood. Indeed,
it was a cave, fairly dry and spacious.
“We’ll camp here…and make our move when the
darkness comes again. Schinicin forces will be searching the area…and
I for one, do not wish to be caught out in the open.” Deerina spoke quietly.
Deerinea took a glow-torch from her belt and struck it alight. Quickly, Deerinea
and Glider scouted out the cave and come back outside.
“It’s not the greatest place on Meldaron – but
it’ll do for a while. Come on, let’s get ourselves some rest….”
Deerinea muttered.
Gratefully, the companions made their
way in to the cave and slumped down. Glider managed to get a small campfire
going, and they shed their wet clothes and sat around the fire, listening to
the soft crackle of the wood.
“How far do you think it is to the temple?” Silverfox asked.
“If my calculations are right – ” Deerinea replied.
“Then we crashed in the Vallin’s river, and it’s about another thirty-five
kilometres to Silverstar tree…in a straight line.”
“What’s that work out to be?” Glider asked.
“Well – if it was a straight line, then we’d
make it in a day or so…but since we’re on foot, and there’s
some rough terrain in our way – it’s going to take us about another
three days to get there…. That is – if the weather holds out for
us.”
“Those Schinicin are fairly thick out this way….”
Drak grated.
“That they are…so we’re going to have to be
extra careful. I do not think that they would seriously bother with Silverstar
Tree village, as it’s not really close to anything of military importance.”
Deerinea spoke, then sighed.
“Except….” Silverfox prodded her.
“Except – that they have rumours of the secret base
out this way…. I do not think that Silverstar Tree village will be so
quiet for much longer. Hopefully, we can get some supplies there – and
if we’re lucky, transportation to the temple.”
“I wish I had your confidence….” Silverfox moaned,
then rolled over and went to sleep.
***
Crash Site
– Edge of the Vallin’s River .
A squad of two-dozen Schinicin soldiers
and assorted search craft were spread across both sides of the river. They were
searching for debris from the crashed pod, and finally, one of them discovered
the evidence that they were seeking.
“Sir….” Spoke a reptilian soldier.
“What is it?” Snarled the displeased Sargent.
“Footprints sir…about four distinct sets….”
“So – they did survive the crash. What I do
not understand, is where the pod is….”
“Probably swept away in the river sir.”
“Possibly…possibly. Spread out and call for reinforcements.
These Meldaron’s couldn’t have gotten far. I must go inform the
search Commander.”
“Yes sir.”
Quickly, the message was sent out
on a secure military frequency, which in turn was relayed via a up-link to the
orbiting Schinicin fleet, and in turn, it finally made it’s way to the
Grand Admiral.
“Sire – report from the search team….” Spoke
the young Reptilian Captain.
“Report.”
“Sire – they claim to have found evidence of survivors.
There is no sign of the pod, but there is some minor debris scattered around
the crash site.
“So – they survived the crash….” Snarled the
Grand Admiral. “How did they survive Captain?”
Withholding his fear, the young Captain spoke. “Sire –
life-sign telemetry was impeded by the explosion of the ship…. There
was little we could do, as it blinded the sensors.”
Grand Admiral Sith Hirr Draconis growled deep in his throat.
“What forces are deployed in that region?” He demanded.
“Sire, we have deployed minimal forces in the Blue Moon Valley
– “
“Treble the current forces out there. I want these
escapees captured Captain. I will not tolerate excuses.”
“Sire – what of the rumours of a secret Meldaron base
in this area?” Asked the Captain.
“My spies within the Meldaron people are working on this
rumour Captain. Now deploy the forces…. Oh, remember one thing. I want
them taken alive – as I suspect – that they are the key to this
puzzle, of the Meldaron base’s location.”
“Sire?”
“Only someone of importance would dare risk trying
to out-run the Schinicin forces….”
“Sire – the Meldaron high command would not dare –
“
“Of course the high command wouldn’t
dare to risk it…. However, I suspect that it is a spy or someone like
that – who has secret information that they are trying to get to the Meldaron
forces. I want them found Captain – and brought to me personally….”
“Yes sire…of course.”
“Oh – and Captain?”
“Sire?”
“Do not fail me Captain….”
“Of course not sire….” Spoke the Captain, as he bowed
and left the chamber.
Softly, the Grand Admiral exhaled and watched the smoke blend in to the chlorine
rich atmosphere on-board his flagship.
“You may run…” He spoke softly. “Yet – you can
not hide forever….”
Back planet-side, the Schinicin soldiers
discovered the tracks and evidence of the companion’s escape. Quickly,
the information was examined, then verified, as a scan of the area revealed
the severely crushed pod, deep down in the river. Schinicin forces were mobilised
in all directions, with orders to capture the survivors…alive.
***
A few days passed, with the companions
slowly making their way towards the village of Silverstar Tree. Here, they hoped
to find some supplies and rest, before making their trip onwards to the Temple
of the Eye of Infinity – or so they had hoped…. Every now and again
during their flight from the crash site, they had managed to hide themselves
from the Schinicin soldiers, that were sweeping the area, searching for them.
At last, on the fourth night of their miraculous escape, they came to a small
cliff, which overlooked the valley, in which – lay the shattered remains
of Silverstar Tree village.
“Oh sweet Millar….” Silverfox wept. “Why? What threat
was this village to the Schinicin?”
“Quite possibly – ” Deerinea sighed in dejection. “They
have suspected that someone has escaped the pod – and they’re planning
for contingencies. They destroyed this village, knowing that it would be a likely
destination for any people out this way.”
“Why? Why are they hurting the innocents – when it’s
us that they want?”
“Silverfox – pull yourself together.” Deerinea snapped
sharply. “This is no time to let our emotions get the better of us.”
Silverfox opened her mouth to speak, but she snapped it closed again, as five
armed Meldaron’s appeared from seemingly no-where and trained their rifles
on them….
“Halt – who are you?” Snapped one, a old Tashan.
“I – ” Began Silverfox, but Deerinea cut her off.
“I am Lieutenant Deerinea, lieutenant of his majesties armed
forces, operations division.”
Some of the other Meldaron’s seemed doubtful and kept a wary eye on the
others.
“How do we know that?” Snarled the old wolf. “There’s
spies everywhere….”
“You’ll just have to take my word for it – won’t
you?” Deerinea spoke softly.
“Sargent….” Spoke the old Tashan. “Take them prisoner
– the general will wish to speak with them…and we’ll find
out who they really are.”
“Sir – ” Spoke a young Alchemian, as he approached
Deerinea, with a set of electronic handcuffs.
“Do not try to imprison me – ” Deerinea growled.
“Sargent – do it.” Spoke the Tashan.
As the Alchemian reached out –
none of them seen Deerinea move. One minute she was there, the next, the young
Alchemian officer was lying choking on the ground and Deerinea had snatched
a pistol from his belt. Twisting about, she neatly shot two of the Meldaron’s
through the head and fired at the Tashan. Silverfox, Glider and Drak leapt for
cover, as the remaining Meldaron’s opened fire. A shot spangled off a
rock beside Glider’s head, making him cry out in alarm. Deerinea dropped
another Meldaron, before she was surrounded, their weapons trained on her.
“Surrender – or this Pearldinean will die.” Snarled
the Tashan.
Deerinea glared in anger, but she dropped the pistol and slowly put her hands
behind her head. Indeed, Deerinea was good, but she was hopelessly out-gunned
and had allowed herself to be manoeuvred in to a bad position. Carefully,
Drak, Silverfox and Glider stepped out from cover, and raised their hands.
“You’re all under arrest – ” Began the Tashan.
“By order of his Imperial – “
“NO!” Glider screamed then spread out his hands.
Sickening crackling sounds lanced
through the air, and the Meldaron soldiers screamed in terror and pain, as lightning
spread from Glider’s outstretched hands. As if it were alive, the deadly
lightning sizzled and cracked, tearing in to the Meldaron captors. Their bodies
bucked and writhed, as the lightning electrocuted them. Their muzzles thrown
open – their entire bodies racked with the bone shattering spasms that
accompanied the deadly attack. Within moments, sickening thuds were heard
– as their bodies crumpled to the ground, dead before they hit. A faint
stench of burned flesh and fur began drifting over the small hilltop.
“Oh Millar – ” Deerinea gasped. “What was that?”
Glider stared at his hands, and then he shuddered as he saw the shimmer of the
lightning crackle sinisterly along his hands, before it dissipated once more.
“I – ” Drak began, then fell silent. “Deerinea….”
“How did I know?” Deerinea asked. “It wasn’t easy.
I got my first hint – by the way that they spoke. True Meldaron
soldiers do not act that way…. I should know, I’ve taught enough
in my years in the military.”
“What of the – ” Silverfox asked.
“I think – ” Deerinea commented. “That Millar’s
speech about the power of lightning, to Glider, was what that was all about?
He’s somehow come in to the possession of the power to use the lightning
– as a potent weapon.”
“I – do not know what happened!” Glider exclaimed.
“Yes – well – we’re all very grateful
Glider, as you’ve saved our lives.” Deerinea spoke.
“I – ” Glider began.
“You did it Glider – you saved
us. These Meldaron’s had obviously turned against their people. They would
have taken us prisoner – and turned us over to the Schinicin. At least
now – we’re going to have a better chance. Scavenge what items we
can – and hide the bodies. I’d rather not have them discovered with
us in the area.” Deerinea spoke sternly.
“What about – ” Silverfox asked.
“Take their armour as well. With a little luck, we’ll
be able to pass through easily, with any others like these – thinking
that we’re a part of their forces.”
“You – want to take from the dead?” Silverfox
asked in horror.
Deerinea stared at her, then sighed. “Silverfox – I
do not like it either, but we do need supplies – and weapons. Our
journey is not yet over…and the Schinicin will be looking for
us.”
Knowing that Deerinea spoke the truth, the companions gathered what supplies
and weaponry they could easily carry then buried the corpses. Silverfox gagged
at the stench from the badly burned bodies, but she withheld her revulsion and
soon, they were back under-way.
“Silverfox – ” Glider whispered, as they made their
way towards the village. “May I speak with you?”
“Of course.” Silverfox replied.
“Why do you think – ” Glider asked, then paused. “Why
have I been chosen to wield this power?”
Silverfox grunted softly.
“Why?” Glider asked.
“Why?” Silverfox replied. “Why are we given anything? I trust
Millar, there is no doubt in that – but even I, am confused by this.”
“Why me though? I am not someone worthy of this….”
Silverfox sighed softly.
“I just do not understand any of this. Why now – have
the Schinicin come to your world?” Glider asked her.
“I wish I knew the answer to that – ” Silverfox replied.
“I really wish I did. Above all, why weren’t we warned by our outpost
scanning station, that the Schinicin were coming?”
“Perchance – the station was taken out?” Glider wondered.
“It’s possible – but they would have picked
up the Schinicin fleet, the second they came out of star-drive, in to our system.
I fear that there is a very real danger within our own people. Our scanning
station outpost should have detected the Schinicin fleet – and
sent a warning to our military forces. Instead, we were blind – and did
not know that they were coming, until it was too late. All of this – does
not sit right.”
“I think you’re right…. I just fear –
that my own people – will fall to the same thing.”
“Glider – if we are successful here – then the
Schinicin will no longer be a threat to us, or any other people. We beat them
once before – and by Millar’s name – we’ll beat them
again.”
“How? Meldaron’s naval fleet is either lost or destroyed
– the military forces are decimated….”
“Never underestimate the Meldaron people my friend –
we’re a strong, proud and noble race. We will fight to the last, to protect
our world – and her people.”
“What have we gotten ourselves in too?” Glider moaned.
“A war – that’s what we’ve
gotten in too – and I for one, am not going to allow the Schinicin to
enslave my world…and her people.”
“Brave words – ” Drak replied sullenly, as he turned
to look at Silverfox and Glider.
“Truth is neither brave nor cowardly.” Silverfox shot back.
“How can we fight the Schinicin?” Drak swore. “We’ve
already seen what they’re capable of….”
“We’ll fight…and die if necessary.” Silverfox
growled. “My father fought in the king’s name, as did my grandfather.
I will not betray their sacrifices, just to live as slaves under the
Imperial’s.”
“You may be consumed with righteousness – but I
on the other paw – am not so inclined. I was contracted to deliver
you lot to the temple…. It’s already cost me more than that paltry
contract price can repay.”
“So you’re not only a mercenary – you’re
unpatriotic as well.” Silverfox snarled.
Drak stared at her, his muzzle wrinkled in anger. “Do not
dare take that voice with me.”
“Back off….” Deerinea’s soft voice spoke. “We’re
in this together, wether we like it or not….”
“I do not have to put up with this….” Drak growled.
“It’s true! I am a mercenary. It is what I do for a living. Now,
this war has cost me my lively-hood…my ship, and probably, it will cost
me my life. I’ve already gotten more than I bargained for on this fools
errand.”
“Listen to me!” Deerinea snarled. “If the Schinicin win this
war – then none of us will be able to do anything! They will come
down on us like a ton of bricks, and we’ll all live as lackeys under the
Imperials. Is that what you want?”
“No – ” Drak growled. “Of course not….”
“Then I suggest that we all try and keep it together –
or else, we may as well not bother trying….” Deerinea shot back then
turned away.
Glider looked to Silverfox, who whimpered
softly and moved in close against her friend. Indeed, things were getting out
of paw – and Silverfox prayed that it would all come together for them
all….
Later that day, they made camp and
built a small smokeless campfire. Drak was sullen and withdrawn, but Deerinea
came to Glider and Silverfox.
“Can – I speak with you both?” Deerinea asked.
“Yes….” Silverfox replied.
Deerinea sat down, folding her legs beneath her. “I
– want to apologise for before…I lost my temper.”
Silverfox nodded softly, then reached out and gave the young Pearldinean a gentle
hug of compassion.
“We’re all under a lot of stress – there is no
argument about that.” Silverfox replied.
“It’s just that – ” Deerinea began. “I feel so
lost – so helpless!”
“We all do. We’ve all suffered so much – and
with little prospect of winning this war, our spirits are down.” Glider commented,
then idly poked the fire with a stick.
“It’s just that – I’m worried. Why are
so many Meldaron’s turning against our own people? We used to support
each other – but now….”
“Deerinea, I know you’re worried, but there is nothing
that we can do. I grieve for those of our people, who are misled by the false
promises of the Schinicin, but we can not change that. All we can hope to achieve
– is to fight the battles, and do the best that we can. I do not think
that many, if any of us will survive – but at least – we
tried our best, and that is what counts….” Silverfox whispered.
“I remember – the exploits of your father, during the
great Meldaron war. He was a true hero….” Deerinea said.
“That he was – but tragically, he and my mother –
were killed in the initial attack on Meldaron.” Silverfox wept.
“I – I’m so sorry….”
“He died honourably, that is what comforts me in my time
of mourning. He was a soldier, and his last acts, were to try and defend my
mother….”
“Truly, he was an honourable Meldaron…. We could have
used one’s like him in this war.” Deerinea nodded.
“What can you tell us, of this secret
base?” Glider asked.
“Well – there’s not much to tell. It is one of
our reserve bases, which have a large star-fighter contingent, and supplies
to last at least five years. It has garrison facilities for over thirty-five
thousand troops…but sadly, only a garrison of five thousand is there
at any given time. It is built in to the largest of the mountains in the Unknown
Hills, and is well shielded, both naturally, and electronically. It is specifically
designed to withstand almost any bombardment, be it orbital or land based.”
Deerinea began. “It was constructed over three hundred years ago – and
in all the centuries, it has never fallen to invading forces. I hope
that we can make it there – as then, we can find out the latest news and
information on the Schinicin forces deployment, and we can launch our counter-strikes.”
“What of Whitetail?” Silverfox asked.
“Whitetail – is a cunning warrior. He will do all that
he can to damage the Schinicin forces invading Foxville, then he will make his
way west, to regroup with us at the location of the Meldaron Base.”
“How long – ” Glider asked.
“We were both indoctrinated in to the military at a surprisingly
young age. At first, we did not want to be a part of it – but soon enough,
we found our true calling. We were trained well, and our natural talents lay
in the field of covert operations. I am Whitetail’s partner, myself being
the person who passes on the orders and assigns the objectives. Naturally, it
is a highly dangerous position for us both, as we’re out of contact with
others for months at a time, but it has its rewards.”
“So – you’re commandoes or something?” Glider
asked.
“Sort of – we’re field operatives. It’s
our job to get in to heavily defended areas and neutralise the threat, as well
as damage the industrial capabilities of our enemies and many other aspects.
Fortunately, Whitetail can take on missions himself, and I have no doubt that
he will be doing all that he can to gather intelligence on the Schinicin, and
be trying to disrupt their hold as much as he can.”
“Do you think – that we’ll
find some transport in the village?” Silverfox asked.
“Probably, but its not going to be easy. This village has
been thoroughly destroyed, but if we’re lucky – we’ll find
a ground-car or something….” Deerinea spoke softly. “If we can’t
find one – then I suggest we do not linger too long in the village, as
Schinicin will still be present, and I’d rather not have another run in
with them.”
Silverfox shuddered and nodded. “Aye, that’s true.
We’ve already discovered just how dangerous they are….”
“Try to get some sleep – we’re going to need
it.” Deerinea told them. “I’ll take first watch, just in case.”
“Are you sure?” Silverfox asked her. “You must be tired….”
“I am – but I can go a few days without sleep, it’s
a part of my training. Go on get to sleep. You two need it more than I do….”
Deerinea watched as Silverfox and Glider lay down, Glider holding the shivering
young vixen. Deerinea smiled softly, then checked her pistol and holstered it.
Deerinea looked up, to see Drak’s eyes gleaming at her from the darkness.
Slowly, Deerinea made her way to where Drak sat sullenly.
“What is wrong with you?” Deerinea
hissed.
“What’s wrong with me?” Drak growled. “Plenty. I’ve
already lost my ship, and with that, my reputation – and my job.”
“So you do not care about anything – other than yourself?”
Deerinea sighed.
“No. I am a mercenary. Do you have a problem with that?”
Deerinea turned away in disgust.
“What’s wrong with my line of work? I’m in it
for the money – it’s what keeps me alive.”
“People like you – disgust me.” Deerinea growled.
“Why? People like yourself – disgust me. At least,
my line of work is without guilt. I am contracted to deliver something to somewhere
– and that’s what I do. I do not really care for a one sided war,
and this is definitely not what I was contracted for.”
“You’re pathetic…. Our world is falling apart,
and you seek to line your pockets with money, and not fight on our side?”
“What goods a reward – if you’re not alive to
enjoy it?” Drak smiled cruelly. “I just want my money – then I’m
gone.”
Deerinea rose, then walked over to look out off the top of
the hill, towards the burning village below. “So you do not care to help
us?”
“Not particularly. As I said, what good is a reward, if I’m
not capable of spending it?”
“So – you get your payment…and you’ll
leave?”
“That’s the idea.” Drak spoke.
“Then you’ll turn us over to the Schinicin –
right?”
Drak growled dangerously, but Deerinea lay her hand on her pistol. His temper
calmed immediately.
“Let’s make one thing perfectly clear.” Drak
growled. “I do not turn anyone over for profit. I may be a smuggler,
a mercenary, but I am not so cold hearted, as to turn someone over for a profit.”
“At least that’s one redeeming feature of your
personality.” Deerinea scathed.
“I’ll get a new ship –
and get as far away from this place as I can. Simple as that, and if you three
had any brains, you would take my advice – and get out of here.”
“Unlike you – we care about our world…and our
people. We’re going to fight….” Drak laughed softly. “Fight? Fight
with what? Meldaron military forces are decimated, the naval fleet likewise
destroyed – or fled. How can you hope to fight off the Schinicin naval
fleet?”
“How we’re going to do it – is none of
your concern. Here – take your payment and leave us in peace….”
Deerinea growled.
Drak stared at her, as Deerinea removed a small gold card from a secret belt
holder. Deerinea threw it at him and walked away. Drak picked it up, then stared
at it.
“Hey – ” Drak began.
“It’s worth about one hundred thousand credits. This
should be enough for your inconvenience.” Deerinea spoke softly, not bothering
to turn to look at him. “Take your payment and leave….”
Drak looked at Deerinea’s back, then shrugged his shoulders and walked
off. Deerinea returned to looking down at the village, tears slowly running
down her cheeks.
Just before dawn the next morning,
Deerinea woke Glider and Silverfox.
“Come on – it’s time to move out.” Deerinea spoke.
“What?” Glider yawned. “Hey – where’s Drak?”
“I sent him on his way – we’ll travel faster
without the likes of him.” Deerinea snapped.
“You….” Silverfox asked.
“I did not trust him. Still, he may be a mercenary, a smuggler
and Millar knows what else, but at least, he will not turn us over to the Schinicin
forces.”
“Are you so certain about that?” Glider moaned.
“Yes Glider – I have not lived this long, without learning
how to trust the true feelings for people. He will not be any threat to us….”
“I wish I had your talents for trusting people….”
Silverfox whispered.
“It will come to you, in time. Come on, let’s move
out.”
Village
of Silverstar Tree
As they approached the burning and
shattered village, only the ominous croaks of the carrion birds welcomed them.
Here and there, Meldaron’s lay sprawled, cut down by the Schinicin foot
soldiers. Not surprisingly, there were only a handful of Schinicin soldiers
that had been slain, seemingly by the desperate Meldaron’s, who had used
farming implements to try and defend their farms and village.
“The silence of the fallen – ” Deerinea commented.
“They were cut down, just because the Schinicin considered them a threat.”
“Why? These people were just simple farmers and such –
what threat did they pose to the Schinicin forces?”
“Who knows why the Schinicin do anything….” Deerinea
sighed. “Come on, let’s try and find some transportation….”
“I do not like our chances….” Silverfox moaned.
“Still, we might be in luck.” Deerinea growled.
They searched throughout the entire village, finding that
all of the halfway suitable vehicles had been rendered totally inoperable. Just
as they were about to leave, Glider came across several Cha’ra
– the domesticated six legged horses native to Meldaron. They were relatively
unharmed, and whickered at the friends as they entered the stall.
“You have got to be joking….”
Silverfox moaned.
“It’s better than walking at least.” Glider smiled,
as he lifted a saddle.
“Glider has a valid point my young friend. These Cha’ra
are much swifter than we are.” Deerinea replied.
“Do any of you know how to ride?” Silverfox gasped.
“I do – ” Glider smiled. “I learned how to ride the
four-legged horses on my home world. I do not think that these are much different.”
Deerinea paused in saddling her mount, then laughed and placed her paw on the
Cha-ra’s neck.
“Alcha de ricthoth?” Spoke Deerinea in an alien sounding
voice.
“There is no need for the old tongue….” Spoke her
mount. “We can speak your language.”
Glider squealed in alarm and backed hurriedly away. Deerinea smiled and stroked
the young mare’s throat gently.
“Glider, they won’t hurt you….” Deerinea smiled.
“They – they can talk ?” Glider whimpered.
“Of course – doesn’t your own home world animals
talk as well?” Deerinea asked.
“Err…no.” Glider whispered, then carefully approached
his own mount.
“Sire, I won’t bite you.” Spoke the young stallion
Cha’ra.
Silverfox laughed softly, then chose a young gelding Cha’ra as her mount.
Deerinea helped the others to saddle them, and then they led their new companions
out in to the open.
“What can you tell me, of what happened
to your masters?” Deerinea asked the Cha’ra.
“Lizard-men come – with light guns.” Spoke the Cha’ra.
“Our owners killed or taken away, in great steel birds.”
“Light guns?” Silverfox asked.
“Probably their laser rifles. How long ago?” Deerinea enquired.
“A day and half a night before.” Replied the equine.
“Hmmm” Deerinea wondered. “About a day and a half ago?”
Slowly, the Cha’ra nodded it’s maned head and
nuzzled her gently. “Come – leave place. Much death scent.”
Effortlessly, Deerinea climbed in to the deep saddle, then watched as Silverfox
had difficulty in climbing up in to her own mounts saddle. Eagerly, the young
gelding knelt, and then Silverfox gratefully clambered in, before he rose again.
Glider hesitantly climbed in to the saddle of the other one, and then they began
walking slowly along the debris strewn main road through the village.
“Masters not come back….” Spoke Deerinea’s Cha’ra.
“Sadly, my friend. No. I doubt that your masters will return.”
Deerinea sighed.
“Lizard-men take masters away…kill others.”
“That’s right. We’re your new masters now, and
we’ll try to take good care of you okay?”
“Okay. Come, we go away now.” Replied the Cha’ra.
“In a minute. We need to try and find some food and other
supplies. Will you permit this?” Deerinea asked.
“Come quick, then go away.” Nodded the Cha’ra.
“Talking horses – ” Glider gaped. “What else has Meldaron
got in way of surprises.”
“Be grateful Glider…that these Cha’ra are domesticated.
Otherwise, you would be their dinner….”
“What?” Glider wailed.
“It’s true.” Silverfox admitted.
“The descendants of the Cha’ra were omnivores, and loved fresh meat.”
“Cha’ra not meat eater now.” Spoke Glider’s mount.
“I would hope not.” Glider moaned.
“Come on,” Deerinea told them. “Let’s try and find
some food and other supplies, like blankets and such. Time is running short
here….”
“Cha’ra run away now?” Spoke Deerinea’s mount,
twitching eagerly.
“No. Wait. Have patience my friend. Soon, shall you have
free run.”
“Cha’ra wait for mistress?”
“That’s right. Have a little patience, and soon, you
shall have the freedom that you so rightfully deserve.”
“Cha’ra wait – then go.”
Silverfox looked decidedly unsettled astride the horse, but she soon got used
to it. Slowly, Deerinea led them down the road, searching for somewhere to get
supplies.
Soon, they found a partially ruined
store, and they dismounted. Deerinea entered hesitantly, not entirely sure what
to expect within. Carefully, she picked her way amongst the ruins, until she
found that which they needed.
“Glider, can you come give me a hand please?” Deerinea called
out.
Glider entered, then looked around.
“It’s a mess, but here – ” Deerinea told him.
“Take these packs, and gather as much unspoilt food and other supplies as they
will carry. We’re going to need them.”
“Mistress!” Whinnied a Cha’ra in terror. “Steel birds
come! Steel birds come!”
“Steel? – Oh for the love of Millar! Silverfox!
RUN!” Deerinea screamed out to her.
Silverfox was thrown from her mount, as it panicked and bucked. Landing heavily,
she struck her head and was stunned. A soft whining sound was heard, which quickly
grew in intensity. Outside, the Cha’ra panicked and bolted, frightened
by the approaching Schinicin vessel. Deerinea looked out through a broken window,
to see the large Schinicin shuttle touch down at the end of the street. It’s
landing disturbed the dust and ashes, partially obscuring the vessel as it idled
it’s engines back, then the soft hum died away. Deerinea checked her blaster
pistol, then waited patiently. Knowing that there was nothing she could do for
the unconscious Silverfox, Deerinea took aim at the shuttle. With a soft hiss
of escaping air and hydraulics, the shuttle hatch opened – away –
from them.
“Smart bastards – ” Deerinea growled softly. “That’s
a clever ploy….”
“Deerinea….” Glider moaned.
“Glider – be silent.” Deerinea hissed.
Deerinea’s patience was sorely
tested, as she waited to spot the Schinicin soldiers. To her terror, she heard
a soft click of a cocked pistol right behind her, then a soft laugh.
“Freeze…drop your weapon.” Spoke a voice.
Deerinea did exactly as she was told, then began to turn her head.
“I said freeze!” Snarled the voice.
“Sargent, check them over for weapons….” Spoke the
voice.
“Yes sir.” Come another voice.
Deerinea felt gloved paws touch her sides, then she leapt in to immediate action.
Swiftly, Deerinea threw herself backwards, crashing in to the person behind
her and knocking him flying. Just as the other moved to shoot her, Deerinea
twisted about and shattered his wrist with a well placed kick. He screamed and
fell backwards, as Deerinea struck again, her hoof connecting solidly with the
side of the Sargent’s head, knocking him out cold. Struggling to his knees,
the other soldier groped for his pistol, but Deerinea stamped her hoof down,
and crushed his hand beneath it. He screamed and Deerinea grabbed him
by the collar, preparing to shatter his neck. Suddenly, she froze, as she felt
a pistol placed against her back.
“You’re good….” Came a muffled voice. “Yet you
still have much to learn. Never turn your back on an enemy….”
Deerinea moaned, then let the critically injured hyooman go. Her paws hung limply
at her side, and she bowed her head. There was the sound of hissing air, and
then the voice breathed in her ear.
“I’ve taught you well – perchance – well
enough….” Come a familiar voice.
Deerinea twisted about and stared in surprise at Whitetail,
who had removed a gas mask from his face. “Whitetail?”
“That’s me.” He smiled.
“What – what in Millar’s name are you doing
here? How – “
“A long story. Come on, let’s move.” Whitetail spoke.
“Oh, nice job on the two soldiers….”
“I – I could have killed them….” Deerinea
whimpered.
“That you could have done – but as it is, they’re
going to need some medical attention.” Whitetail admitted.
“How – “
“I intercepted a Schinicin transmission.
I then found out that a ship had been shot down in this area, and that the Schinicin
were searching for the survivors. Naturally, this being the closest settlement
in the area, it seemed logical that you would make your way here….” Whitetail
smiled. “Not exactly the greatest military tactic, but you must have had your
reasons.”
“How in Millar’s name, did you capture a Schinicin
shuttle?” Deerinea asked, as she followed Whitetail outside.
“It wasn’t easy – let me assure you of that!”
Whitetail groaned. “I had to take out a dozen Schinicin soldiers, just to get
near this puppy. Fortunately, their pilots are much more compliant, but a shame,
as I did have to shoot them as well.”
“What of the – ” Deerinea began.
“I stumbled across some friends of mine, who are wizards
at tinkering with technological toys. They’ve managed to re-program the
main computer, and also – much to our pleasure, managed to rework the
basics of the flight controls. There is still a lot of work to be done
to it, but at least, it flies.”
Glider ran to Silverfox, then gently cradled the unconscious vixen in his arms.
Blood matted the back of her head, and her breathing was shallow and rapid.
“Deerinea – ” Glider sobbed. “Silverfox’s wounded…badly.”
“Let me check on her….” Whitetail whispered, as he
approached.
Deerinea nodded to Glider, who gently lay Silverfox back down, then stepped
back. Whitetail knelt, then placed his fingertips to Silverfox’s forehead.
After a few moments, he sighed softly, then Silverfox cried out weakly.
“How – ” Glider began.
“Whitetail – possesses a healers touch.” Deerinea spoke
softly. “Still, your friend will need some medical attention.”
“Easy, my young vixen….” Whitetail spoke, as he gently
helped Silverfox to sit up.
“What…what happened.” Silverfox whimpered.
“Your Cha’ra panicked and bolted, and you were thrown
from the saddle. How do you feel?” Glider asked.
Silverfox grimaced and shuddered. “I feel like there is a
massive battle raging in my head….”
“You took a very bad knock to the head Silverfox….”
Whitetail spoke. “You’re lucky in that your skull is fairly thick….”
Glider stared at Whitetail, as if thinking he was insulting
his friend. Glider quickly realised that no offence was meant, but it was the
truth. If Silverfox’s skull had of been thinner, then she would have surely
perished.
“Captain – we’ve got wounded here!” Whitetail
spoke in to a communicator.
Within moments, ten Meldaron’s and hyoomans’ boiled from the shuttle,
and retrieved Silverfox, and the two unconscious soldiers from within the shop.
Gently, they carried them back to the shuttle and placed them in to secure restraints.
As Glider and Deerinea entered, they shuddered and covered their mouths, as
there was still a strong scent of chlorine in the air.
“Here,” Whitetail spoke, as he handed them masks. “Put these
on….”
Gratefully, Glider and Deerinea did as they were told, then strapped themselves
in to their seats.
“So tell me,” Deerinea began. “What
happened?”
“I was hoping, you could tell me!” Whitetail exclaimed.
“Captain, we’re all aboard.”
There was a faint vibration, as the shuttles’ engines began warming back up
for take-off.
“I thought that there was….” Whitetail asked,
looking amongst them.
“Mack Shazri, the wolf, perished in the crash….” Glider
sniffled.
“Oh – I’m so sorry….” Whitetail spoke
sincerely.
“That’s not the half of it – ” Deerinea began,
then told Whitetail of the story of the escape from Foxville, and the events
after, leading up too now….
“Millar – come to you ?” Whitetail gasped. “I
thought that she was – “
“It’s true.” Deerinea spoke. “Millar has be raised
from her sleep, for what reasons, I honestly do not know.”
Whitetail was silent for a time, then sat in thought. They all felt the shuttle
rise in to the air, then the Captain piloting it called back.
“Sir, we need a destination course.”
“Make for the Temple of the Eye of Infinity….” Whitetail
spoke. “We’ve got business there….”
“Sir?” Asked the Captain.
“Just do it!” Whitetail snarled.
“Aye sir….” Replied the Captain. “Course laid in sir,
estimated arrival time, twenty-six minutes.”
“That’s twenty-six minutes too
long Captain….” Whitetail spoke. “Get the lead out, as the Schinicin
will not take lightly to us stealing one of their shuttle-craft.”
“Aye sir….” Come the Captain’s response. “I’ll
try to use the natural terrain to mask our signature….”
“Excellent Captain, just get us there as swiftly and as safely
as you can. Understand?”
“Yes sir….”
***
Aboard the flagship of the Schinicin
naval fleet, the Grand Admiral was agitated.
“Status on the ground search for the escapees?” He snarled.
“Sire, no evidence has been found yet, as to their location.”
Come the response.
“They just can’t have disappeared!” Roared the Grand
Admiral.
“Sire – “
“What settlements are near to where their pod crashed?”
Quickly, a holographic map was displayed on the main view screen. A blinking
green dot shone brightly on the map.
“Location?” Snarled Sith Hirr Draconis.
Location of settlement
: Silverstar Village – Come the computer response.
“Hmmm….” Pondered the Grand
Admiral. “It seems logical, that they would try and make their way there. Status
report on forces deployed in that area and full report on that village….
Silverstar Village
: Silverstar Tree village – so named, as it was the location of a Meldaron
landmark. A silver barked tree grew here, being the sole species of its type
in the entire Meldaron system. Legend has it, which this tree was originally
brought to Meldaron, from the planet of Terra, over five hundred years ago.
Population of approximately three hundred Meldaron’s and Hyooman’s. Primarily
a farming village, with minimal threat to Schinicin forces, when the village
was attacked and destroyed. Most village residents rounded up and sent to Imperial
re-education camps, but some resistance was met, and dissidents terminated.
Schinicin losses in deployment area – 0.05 % of forces deployed in pacification
of village.
“So,” Spoke the Grand Admiral. “The
villagers were farmers and such? What sort of resistance was met by the Schinicin
ground forces?”
“Minimal sire. We lost only a minor amount of our ground
forces there. It was literally a slaughter – with the Meldaron’s
armed with spears, knives and other simple weaponry.” Spoke the field operations
officer.
“I want a full sensor sweep of the area – and contact
the closest armoured division down there. I want that village totally checked
– and – “
“Sire?”
With a cruel smile, the Grand Admiral leaned back in his
throne, which creaked ominously. “Destroy the tree – I want it totally
and irrevocably destroyed.”
“Yes sire…by your command.”
“Sire!” Squealed a young officer.
“What is it?” Growled the Grand Admiral.
“Sire – one of our shuttles has been stolen!”
“What?” Shrieked Sith Hirr Draconis. “When? How?”
“Sire – the soldiers guarding the shuttle were killed,
as was the shuttle pilots. Shuttle serial number A-183-K93, was stolen. Last
confirmed report was of it heading southeast. Ground side controllers claim
in had the proper codes and it passed preliminary scanning detection….”
“Commander!” Snarled the enraged Grand
Admiral. “I want the entire control personnel planet-side recalled…and
executed. I will not tolerate such ineptitude from anyone! Get a search
started for that shuttle! I want it found!”
“Yes sire.” Spoke the Commander, as he swiftly relayed the
orders to the other orbiting Star-Crushers.
Enraged by this unforeseen turn of events, the Grand Admiral glared at the view
screen, and the blue-green planet below this flagship. Indeed, the Meldaron’s
would suffer for this turn of events….
***
“Sir –” Spoke the shuttle Captain.
“We’re being actively scanned by radar sensor contact…of Schinicin
origin.”
“Damn it!” Whitetail swore. “They’re on to us! Can
you mask our signature a little better?”
“Sir….”
“Can you fly us lower?”
“I…sir – we’re almost taking the tops
off the tree’s now….”
“Captain – I do not think that I need to tell you,
of the fate – that the Schinicin will favour us with, should we be found…and
captured.”
“No sir – of course not….”
“Do your best Captain…our very lives depend on it.”
“Aye sir.”
Camer – Meldaron Spaceport –Tracking Station.
A Schinicin controller sat at his
console, scanning the signatures of any and all Schinicin craft in the area,
and conducting long-range scans.
“Sir – ” He spoke.
“What is it Lieutenant?” Snarled the senior Schinicin controller.
“I’ve got my own problems.”
“Sir – shuttle A-183-K93 – has deviated from
its set flight pattern….”
“What? What was that ships number?” Asked the controller
incredulously.
“Sir – it’s transponder signature is…A-183-K93.”
A deep breath was exhaled from the controller. “Keep
that shuttle under constant surveillance! Do NOT let it out of your sight….”
“Sir?”
“Just do it! Urgent message to flagship, shuttle has been
detected, awaiting orders….”
Quickly, the message was encoded and
beamed via a groundside up-link to the Imperial flagship, where it was decoded
and immediately flagged to the Grand Admiral’s attention.
“Sire – ” Spoke the Commander in charge.
“What is it Commander?” Grated out the Grand Admiral.
“My lord – we have them….”
“Are you certain Commander?”
“Sire, our tracking station in Camer is locking on to their
transponder frequency…we expect to have confirmation of their trajectory
and location momentarily.”
“Excellent Commander – deploy a squadron of fighters
to intercept and force down the shuttle…. I want the passengers alive
Commander – make certain of that.”
“Yes sire, by your command.”
Quickly, the word was sent out, and deep within the bowels of the ship, a dozen
pilots scrambled towards their waiting fighters. Within moments, they were launched
and streaking down through the Meldaron atmosphere, on a intercept trajectory
with the stolen shuttle….
“Keep me appraised of the situation Commander,” Spoke the
Grand Admiral. “I shall be in my chambers….”
“Yes sire….”
“Oh – and I still want the entire tracking station
personnel executed…. See to it personally Commander….”
With that, the Grand Admiral made his way from the bridge of his flagship.
***
Aboard the Stolen Schinicin Shuttle.
“Sir – ground station radar
signal strength gaining in its intensity…we can’t hold it off much
longer.” Growled the Captain.
“Do what you can to mask our signature Captain – any
ideas if any fighters have been vector on intercept yet?”
“Not certain sir – but estimations run high, as we
have no scanners running of our own, as it would surely give us away….”
“Damn it all….” Whitetail swore. “Captain, do what
you can…and try to increase speed….”
“Yes sir….”
“They’re on to us…aren’t they?” Silverfox
croaked weakly.
“I’m afraid so – they must have detected this
shuttle’s divergence from its flight-path.”
“What…do we do?” Glider asked.
“We’ve got to pray – that we can out-run them.
I do not doubt that the Schinicin have scrambled fighters after us…and
they’re going to have orders to try and force us to land. If they can’t
force us down…then probably, they’ll shoot us down.”
“How will we….”
“Sir!” Wailed the Captain. “Schinicin fighters! At least
a dozen of them! Closing at mach 4!”
“Alright Captain – I need your maximum skills here…any
chance of evading them?”
“Sir?”
“Do we have a chance?”
“A minimal chance sir…they’re closing on us
quickly…. Estimated time till firing range, two minutes.”
“Do what you can captain – we didn’t risk our
necks…and lose many soldiers, just for these damn Schinicin to shoot
us down…. This shuttle is important to our purposes…. Does she
have firing capability?”
“Negative sir…we couldn’t get the up-link for
the neuro-helmet controls for the guns to function….”
“Never mind…just do all that you can to evade those
fighters Captain….”
“Yes sir….”
“Do you have any plans for how we’re
going to get out of this one?” Deerinea asked.
Whitetail sighed, then looked at the shipboard threat displays.
“You know something? For once, I’m at a loss to work this out….”
“Oh great – we’re going to die.” Deerinea moaned.
“Not yet – I’ve still got some theories….”
Whitetail muttered.
“I thought you might.”
Whitetail tore off an access panel, then stared at the myriad circuits and wiring
behind it. Quickly, he struggled to decipher the Schinicin writing and re-route
some of the weapon control systems.
“What-ever you’re going to do back there – make
it quick! These fighters are gaining quickly.” Yelled back the Captain.
“Captain, I’m doing the best I can back here –
I just need you to keep those Schinicin fighters off us for a few more moments.”
Whitetail growled.
“Easier said than done my friend…. They’re closing
in at mach 5 now…estimated time for firing range, thirty-five seconds.”
“Raise shields…intensify back quarter. They’re
going to try for a crippling hit on the drives, so be prepared.” Whitetail grunted.
As he touched a pair of wires, there was a loud sickening snap of electricity
and Whitetail screamed in pain. He was thrown heavily backwards against the
wall of the shuttle by the electrical discharge.
“Damn….” Deerinea growled.
“That’s all we needed.”
“Sweet Millar….” Whitetail moaned, as he disentangled
himself. “That certainly livened me up….”
“Are you alright?” Deerinea asked him.
“I’ve had worse – but that wasn’t too shabby.”
Whitetail grinned weakly.
“Twenty seconds till firing range….” Called back the
Captain.
“What can I do to help you?” Deerinea asked.
“I’m trying, to restore the system integrity to the
laser torpedoes. If I can bypass the neuro-processor systems, then we’ll
have control over partial weapons systems.”
“Fifteen seconds….” Snarled the Captain, as he twisted
the shuttle in to a series of structurally impossible manoeuvres.
Deep creaks and moans come from the very fabric of the shuttle, as it was forced
in to manoeuvres its structural integrity was not designed to accommodate. There
was a loud snap and a shower of sparks emerged from the panel.
“Damn ship!” Whitetail swore. “It’s like trying to
move a mountain with mind power alone!”
“Ten seconds….”
“Wait – what if we invert the power coupling in the
drive system, and re-route it through the main weapon sub-systems?” Silverfox
asked.
Whitetail glared at her in agitation. “Do you have any
idea what might happen?”
Silverfox glanced at the threat display, then shuddered. “Yes…I do. If
we get it wrong, the drives will go critical, this entire shuttle will be blown
in to atoms, us along with it, and then, there will be nothing to worry about!”
Whitetail blinked, then shuddered.
“Can it be done?” Deerinea asked.
“Yes – but its going to take me a little time….”
Whitetail growled.
Whitetail swore again, then began tearing out circuits and wires, re-routing
the main neuro-processor systems.
“Out of time…here they come!” Yelled the Captain.
Horrendous squeals come from the tortured shuttlecraft, as the Schinicin fighters
raked its back and flanks with their guns. Fortunately, the shielding held,
but it was a close call. As the twelve fighters pulled away and banked, turning
for another strafing run, the shuttle turned savagely and headed off ninety
degrees from the direction it was heading. This bought them a moment’s
surprise, as the Schinicin fighters had to turn even more sharply, to try and
counteract the wild manoeuvring of the shuttlecraft.
“Captain – I need your maximum inventiveness now,”
Whitetail spoke. “Within structural limitations….”
“Easier said than done! Structural integrity is holding,
shield strengths down to 75%.”
Again, the Schinicin fighters swept by, raking the underside of the shuttle
with their deadly lasers.
“Shield strength sixty percent and falling….” Cried
the Captain.
“Hold them off for a few more seconds….” Whitetail
called back.
There was a sickening barrage upon the shuttle, as six of the fighters strafed
along its back. A faint explosion was heard in the back quarter, followed by
a strident ringing of alarms.
“Damn them! We’ve got a coolant leak in one of the
primary drive systems! I’ve got to switch over….”
Whitetail swore venomously, then slapped the access hatch closed. He crossed
his fingers, then pressed a button – with no results.
“Damn it!” Whitetail cursed. “Damn piece of….”
A sickening rocking of the shuttle
cut him short, as sparks and flames leapt up, as the shuttle was struck mercilessly.
“Shield integrity at thirty-nine percent…hull integrity at seventy percent
and falling….” Yelled the Captain.
Whitetail lost his temper – then kicked the console. To his surprise,
it lit up and activated the shipboard defence systems.
“Captain! You’ve got fire-control access….”
Whitetail cried jubilantly.
“Correction – I’ve got a dozen Schinicin fighters…bearing
down on me! If any of you can operate these weapons – then you’re
welcome to come up front here!”
Whitetail looked to Deerinea, who nodded and ran up in to the cockpit of the
shuttle. Here, the Captain struggled with the damaged shuttlecraft’s controls.
Deerinea strapped herself in, then brought the tri-fire laser cannons online.
Once she was sure they were fully charged, she switched off the gunnery computer
and sighed.
“Are you mad?” Wailed the Captain. “They’re too fast
for a normal Meldaron to track….”
“I’m used to this Captain – just keep them away
as much as you can, as I’m going to have my paws full here….”
With a sigh, the Captain returned to trying to evade the Schinicin fighter fire….
Deerinea’s eyes closed, then
she reached out with her senses, and let her fear drain from her. Once she had
regained her calm, she opened her eyes – and fired. Three of the Schinicin
fighters immediately exploded in to flaming debris, which rained down from the
sky. Immediately, the remaining nine fighters broke apart and engaged the shuttle
from all directions. It bucked and squealed, as the merciless Schinicin aero-fighters
raked the shuttle with their devastating weaponry. Again, Deerinea fired, and
this time, she was pleased to see two fighters try to evade – and collide
with each other. Their explosions crippled a third, which plummeted from the
sky, smoke trailing from its fuselage.
“How we holding?” Deerinea grated, as she strafed another
fighter.
“Shield strengths minimal –” Replied the Captain. “Down
to less than fifteen percent, hull integrity at forty-five percent.”
“Damn it – ” Deerinea cursed. “I’m trying to
perform the impossible here…. Do your best Captain.”
“I am…believe me!” He shot back.
Once more, the remaining six fighters closed for the attack, but Deerinea shot
two of them from the sky and crippled another. They watched as the Schinicin
pilot ejected from his stricken fighter, then parachuted to safety below.
A sharp explosion was heard from the
rear quarter and the indicators clamoured for attention.
“We’ve lost shielding! One more hit and we’re
history!” Cried the Captain.
Deerinea concentrated then blew another of the aero-fighters in to flaming wreckage.
Quickly, the two remaining fighters broke formation and fled, but Deerinea crippled
one and shot down the other. Both fell from the sky and exploded as they struck
the ground, far below.
“You did it! Millar be blessed!” Exhaled the Captain. “You’ve
done it!”
Deerinea slumped back in her seat, then let her shaking paws slip from the gun
controls….
***
Aboard the Flagship of the Schinicin Empire.
Grand Admiral Sith Hirr Draconis was silent, as he watched
the battle on the view screen of his flagship.
“Sire – all star-fighters have been either crippled
– or destroyed….” Spoke the Commander.
“I have eyes Commander….” Sith Hirr Draconis exhaled
softly. “They do work.”
“Sire – “
“Stand down the remaining fighters Commander – we’ve
lost this battle.”
“Sire?”
“You have your orders Commander.” Sith Hirr Draconis replied
his voice touched with menace. What is the last known trajectory of the
shuttle craft?”
“Sire, it was heading easterly, but now that we’ve
lost it on tracking station control….”
“What settlements are out that way, that they could land
and repair the shuttle?”
“Only very minor settlements sire, primarily farmers…and
settlers. This part of Meldaron is primarily an agricultural area….”
Come the response.
“So – there is no areas of high technology, in which
they could repair the shuttle?”
“No sir…our forces occupy the primary and secondary
industrial areas, and there is little chance they could get the parts necessary
for repairs….”
“What is this – the… Temple of the Eye of
Infinity?”
“Sire?”
“What is the temple?” Grand Admiral Sith Hirr Draconis snarled.
“Sire – it is an ancient temple and grounds, dedicated
to the Meldaron’s goddess, Millar. It’s been abandoned for over
a thousand years….”
“Are you certain of this?”
“Yes sire – the temple and grounds were abandoned…and
left to decay.”
“Order a ground battalion to this temple. I want it taken,
and I do not care for how many lives are lost…. I know that this secret
Meldaron base is here somewhere, and I intend to find it….”
“At once sire, we’ll deploy a battalion as per your
orders.”
“Excellent Commander – keep this up, and you’re
going to be rewarded well, for your exemplary achievements.”
“Thank you sire….”
“I’ll be in my quarters. I must report to his Imperial
majesty.”
“Yes Sire – by your command.”
Making his way to his well-appointed
quarters, Grand Admiral Sith Hirr Draconis knelt on the holo-pad and after a
few moments, the holographic image of the emperor formed.
“What is it Sith Hirr Draconis?” Come the chilling voice.
“My majesty, there has been an unforseen turn of events here
on Meldaron….”
“Yes – I know.”
“Sire, we have yet, to discover the location of the hidden
Meldaron base.”
“What news do you have to report to me Grand Admiral?”
“Sire, our forces have consolidated our hold on Meldaron,
but I respectfully request for reinforcements, to further your will over these
people.”
“I shall – consider your request….” Replied
the Emperor.
“Sire – sources reveal that the Meldaron’s do
have a secret base – “
“I want this base discovered – and destroyed Sith Hirr
Draconis. I do not care how long it takes, or what must be done…but I
want it destroyed. Bring me the corpses of the Meldaron high command when you’ve
succeeded.”
“Of course sire.” Grand Admiral Sith Hirr Draconis spoke.
“Sire – I have taken the liberty in ordering the ground forces to spread
across Meldaron, and round up dissidents and rebels. They are being sent to
re-education camps, all across Meldaron.”
“Excellent Grand Admiral – keep up the good work. Now,
give me a full report on the conquest of this insignificant planet?”
“Sire, our spies successfully neutralised the outer system
scanning station, allowing our naval fleet to sneak in undetected. Further,
the Meldaron naval fleet was mostly annihilated, with minimal losses to the
Schinicin fleet. Those few ships that survived have fled the system. Meldaron
military forces were caught unawares, and we managed to destroy their primary
military sites in the first assault. We have heard, through our network of spies,
that the Meldaron king had escaped the assault on Crown Castle – and he
has gone in to hiding….”
“How did this happen Sith Hirr Draconis? I thought that you
had planted spies and Assassins close to the king….” Come the Emperor’s
voice.
“Sire – with all due respect – we did –
have spies planted in and around Crown Castle, and the assassins were the best
to be had…. I have no excuse sire, except to say that we were outsmarted.
A decoy or something threw us off the scent, and the king was permitted to escape.
Now, his location is a closely guarded secret. Those Meldaron military officers
we’ve captured to date, have died under torture, without breaking.”
“This is regrettable Grand Admiral
– and unforeseen. I want the king taken alive – if possible, dead
– just as well. I want you to spread the fleet throughout this system,
and thoroughly blockade any and all space traffic. Launch scouting ships to
the other nearby systems, but ensure their cloaking fields are intact. I will
be most displeased – should the other neighbouring systems be alerted
to our presence…and our plans.” Spoke the Emperor.
“Of course sire. By your command….” Replied the Grand
Admiral.
“Do not fail me Grand Admiral – and remember. I am
watching you closely. I have my own network of spies, and some of them,
are watching you. I will not tolerate ineptitude Grand Admiral. I want
the location of that Meldaron base found…and I want the base destroyed.
Then, execute the high command, and bring me their corpses.”
“Yes sire….”
“Another thing Sith Hirr Draconis – there is a disturbance
– “
“Sire?”
“As you know, there is a vibrant energy that fills everything
– and there is a large disturbance within this energy field. There is
a Meldaron, who poses a very real danger to us all. I know little of what this
Meldaron is, but it wears the Pendant of Kra-chazra….”
“Sire…that pendant….”
“I want this Meldaron found…and brought before me
personally…. This pendant, is half of the key – that shall unlock the
book of Zra-chak…. For centuries, this book has remained locked, it’s
powers untapped by anyone. I possess part of the pendant – and this Meldaron
person – possesses the other part. If the two could be brought together….”
“Then the Schinicin Empire could resurrect the Star Dragons!”
Exclaimed the Grand Admiral. “We would become invincible, with the power of
the Star Dragons….”
“Precisely Grand Admiral….
Millar defeated and entombed the Star Dragon’s over five hundred years
ago – and shattered the key in to two pieces. She decreed that they would
never be brought back together…as if they fell in to evil hands….”
“However – ” Sith Hirr Draconis asked.
“However – ” Replied the Emperor. “If the key falls
in to the paws of the Meldaron’s, and then they could once and for all
– destroy the Star Dragons…and bring down the downfall of the Schinicin
Empire. This book is hidden within the Temple of the Eye of Infinity, deep in
the centre of the Blue Moon Valley, on Meldaron. I do not care what it takes
Grand Admiral, but I want that tome found – even if you have to take apart
the entire temple to do it. When you have it, send it immediately to me….
Do not fail in this Grand Admiral – or else, I personally, will destroy
you. This tome, and the pendant, is the real meaning behind this war.”
“I will not fail you – my dark majesty….” Sith
Hirr Draconis promised.
“I trust that you do not fail me Grand Admiral….”
Come the Emperor’s response.
With that, the holographic image of the Schinicin emperor broke apart and dissipated.
Sith Hirr Draconis remained kneeling for a few moments, turning over what the
Emperor had said to him…and the true meaning behind this war.
“Commander – ” He spoke sharply.
“Sire?” Come the shipboard Commander’s reply.
“I want as many troops as possible – to surround the
Temple of the Eye of Infinity….”
“Sire?”
“Just do it!” Grand Admiral Sith Hirr Draconis snarled
in reptilian fury.
“Yes sire….” Replied the Commander. “At once sire.”
“See too it personally commander – and ensure that
nothing escapes that Temple….”
***
With a hiss of escaping gasses, the
shuttle touched down gently in the spacious courtyard of the Temple of the Eye
of Infinity. Even as the hatchway opened, thirty-five Monk’s, dressed
in flowing black cassocks, had taken defensive positions all around the courtyard,
hiding and watching diligently.
“Stay aboard – ” Deerinea spoke. “Let me go out first….”
Deerinea met no resistance, as she slowly walked down the ramp, her body obscured
by the hissing steam and gasses. Slowly, she walked away from the shuttle, then
spoke, her voice loud and piercing.
“Onar charic – delrath caldon….”
Silence held over the temple courtyard for many minutes….
“Onar charic – delrath caldon – Mirath!” Deerinea
chanted.
“Onar charic – mirath ae!” Come a voice.
Slowly, a Monk approached, then stopped a dozen yards away from Deerinea.
“Delrath sith areth cha?” Deerinea asked.
“Delrath sith tora ne.” Spoke the cowled Monk. “Welcome –
my friends. Come….”
Whitetail emerged from the shuttle, then Silverfox and Glider followed, and
lastly, the Meldaron soldiers emerged as well. Whitetail walked over to the
cowled Monk, then knelt before it and bowed his head.
“Onar charic – master….” Whitetail spoke reverently.
“Rise my child….” Spoke the Monk. “Rise….”
Whitetail rose slowly, then the hooded
Monk threw back his cowl, to reveal the muzzle of an old Weasel. His eyes gleamed
with hidden power, and he warmly embraced both Whitetail and Deerinea.
“Your eminence, it is a pleasure to greet you once again….”
Whitetail wept.
“Who – are your companions?” Asked the Weasel.
Quickly, Deerinea led the Glider and Silverfox before the Bishop, who gazed
at them intently.
“I am Silverfox Relah Star, and this is my best friend, Glider….”
Silverfox spoke, then bowed courteously.
“Relah Star?” Asked the Bishop.
“Your Eminence – ” Bowed Silverfox again.
“Come – let us sit and enjoy the bounties of Meldaron.
You must be tired and hungry….” Spoke the Weasel, as he turned and led
them back across the courtyard.
Glider looked at Silverfox, who shrugged her shoulders and followed Deerinea
and Whitetail, who entered in through the large ivy covered archway. They
were led through ancient stone hallways, and through thick iron barred doors.
Finally, they arrived in the Bishops main audience chamber, where an impressive
feast lay sprawled across three huge trestle tables.
“Come – sit – enjoy your
meal my friends.” Spoke the Bishop.
Whitetail remained standing, as did Deerinea, and Silverfox and Glider followed
their lead, waiting until the bishop was seated, before they too, sat down.
“Tell me my student – what brings you back here to
me?” Asked the Weasel of Whitetail.
“Master – as you may know – Schinicin have invaded
Meldaron…and the war goes badly for our people….”
“I know – Millar is restless….” Sighed the Bishop
softly. “Millar has been roused from her sleep – after centuries….
It does not bode well…. Still, I sense that you are not here only to
hear of this information….”
“Your ability to read minds never failed to astound me master….”
Whitetail smiled.
“Speak with me my child….”
“Master – I am prepared to undertake the last test….
I wish to complete my training under you.”
A surprised look crossed the old Weasel’s face.
“You – wish to consummate your training? Are you sure of this? As you
know – only a bare handful – have ever passed the test.”
“Yes master – I know. I feel – that I am worthy
of the test….” Whitetail spoke.
“Worthy are you?” Growled the Weasel. “For over seventy winters,
have I trained my students – and in this regard, my own thoughts shall
I heed on wether you are worthy or not.”
“Master – ” Whitetail spoke reverently. “I’ve
trained diligently, lived by the code that you gave me – “
Angrily, the Weasel leapt to his feet
and paced the tiled granite floor.
“All I ask – is that I be given the chance –
to complete my training….” Whitetail asked.
“Are you certain that you know the risks involved? Should
you fail – “
“Should I fail – then I shall perish. I know the risks
master – and I am willing to undertake them.”
“I must have time to think – and to ask Millar if you
are indeed worthy of undertaking the challenge. I will meet with you all at
dawn – tomorrow.” Spoke the Weasel, his voice old and tired sounding.
An acolyte shall show you to your chambers….” Spoke the Bishop.
“Sleep well master – ” Whitetail spoke.
With that, the Weasel made his way
from the chambers….
“Whitetail – you can not be serious….” Deerinea
pleaded.
“Deerinea – for the past ten winters – I’ve
struggled with this problem. Now, I am resolute in my beliefs…and I must
complete my training. Already, I’ve languished too long and delayed
my advancement. No longer – shall I sit on my tail and wait. Meldaron
needs us all – and if I am successful in my training…then I will
be more of an assistance to us all….”
“If you fail – then you will perish – your spirit
will be consumed forever….”
“I know the risks – but it is something that I must
do.” Whitetail sighed, then hugged his mate tightly. “Now, I must
go and cleanse my body and my mind…if I am to undertake this challenge
tomorrow. There is too much at stake here….”
“Exactly my point!” Deerinea wailed. “If you fail –
then you’re going to die! Your spirit will be sundered for eternity –
and then where will we be?”
“If I succeed – then we’ll possess a much stronger
chance – of succeeding in our quest, of driving the Schinicin from our
world….”
“Go – if you must…. I just pray, that if
you are chosen for this testing – that you do pass it successfully….”
“I hope so too…I really do….” Whitetail whispered,
then kissed her snout softly and left the chambers.
“Deerinea – what is this… testing?” Glider
asked.
“It’s a dangerous test – that has a very high
mortality rate. Alone, you are cast in to the catacombs beneath the temple –
and you must find your way to the Chamber of T’nath. There, you must do
battle with the guardian of T’nath – a powerful and incredibly evil
Star Dragon. If you can defeat him – then you will have passed the test.
If you fail – he destroys you, and annihilates your spirit….” Deerinea
sniffled.
“A…Star Dragon?” Silverfox
asked. “I thought they were only legends – myths – that our parents
told us, to make us behave….”
“They are – ” Spoke a young Monk, as he entered quietly.
“Alas, the powers that have held the Star Dragon’s enslaved – have
been sorely tested of late. This one – is one of the eldest of the Star
Dragons – and he is a cunning and ferocious opponent. Precious few have
survived the challenges beneath the temple – and even fewer again –
have beaten the Star Dragon and survived….”
“If they’re a myth – ” Glider began.
“Hundreds of years ago, Millar saw the evil threat that the
Star Dragon’s were posing to the galaxy. Millar gathered the strongest
of her followers and the most daring of warriors, to do battle. Over many years,
they battled the evil of the Star Dragons – destroying entire worlds in
the process. Finally, a young warrioress sacrificed her own life; to draw the
remaining elder Star Dragon’s in to a deadly trap. Once the trap was sprung
– the Star Dragon’s were trapped and imprisoned in another dimension,
where it was firmly believed, that they would never cause any more trouble.
We were wrong. A key was created to unlock the portal in to the prison of the
Star Dragons, but Millar chose wisely, and shattered the key in to two pieces.
These, were scattered to the far ends of the Galaxy, and it was believed, that
they were lost for eternity.” Spoke the Monk. “Now, the key is being brought
back together – and if the great book of Zra-Chak is recovered and unlocked
– then whom so ever unleashes the power contained within that book, will
ultimately decide the fate of not only Meldaron – but the entire galaxy.
Within the great book’s sacred pages, are the rites and rituals, which
can control the powers of the Star Dragons and force them in to obeying the
book owners. If the book off Zra-Chak fell in to evil hands – along with
the key – then all would surely perish. If the forces for good could find
and capture it – along with the key – then someone of strong will
could control the Star Dragons, and force them back in to subservience once
more….”
“So – it stands to reason, that the Schinicin may be
searching for the location of the key – and the book of Zra-Chak?” Silverfox
asked.
“It is possible….” Answered the Monk.
“Then why destroy most of Meldaron in the process?” Glider
asked. “It does not seem to make any sense.”
“Contrary, my young hyooman. It makes
perfect sense. To search out something, you should ensure that others –
are not going to pose any threat to your search. Thus, the Schinicin have destroyed
much of any possible resistance on Meldaron – allowing them a much more
freer capability to search for the key…and the book of Zra-Chak.” Answered
the Monk. “Now – if you’ll follow me, I shall take you to your quarters.
There, you may bathe and seek rest, if such is of what you wish….”
Quietly, the companions followed the Monk from the grand hall, and down back
through the myriad of passages, until he led them to their quarters.
“You may all rest here – ” Spoke the Monk. “As this
Temple has never fallen in battle…and never will. You are safe here,
at least – until you decide to leave. May Millar’s blessing be with you
all.”
“May Millar bless and keep you safe as well.” Deerinea formally
replied.
With a deep bow, the Monk turned and walked back up the passageway, his soft-shoes
making the faintest of noises. With wonderment, the companions all retired to
their separate chambers. Within ten minutes, the temple was silent once more….
An hour after Silverfox had bathed
and retired, she was woken by a soft voice beside her ear.
“Please come with me….” Was all that the cowled Monk
said.
Silverfox rolled out of bed, then hurriedly pulled on a nightgown and followed
the Monk out.
“This way – ” Asked the Monk.
Silverfox, still groggy, followed the Monk through the quiet temple, and in
to the main cathedral. Here, the Monk paused and gestured for Silverfox to approach
the main altar, where another Monk knelt, his voice resonating with prayer.
Hesitantly, Silverfox did as she was instructed, then paused behind the kneeling
Monk.
“I know why you have come here – ” Come the voice of
the Bishop.
“I – ” Silverfox began.
“You have been touched – have you not?”
“I – do not understand.” Silverfox whispered, feeling
intimidated in this great cathedral.
“Millar has come to you, has she not?”
“Yes – “
“Come – speak with me…. There is much I sense
you do not understand.”
Slowly, the Weasel Bishop rose then
led Silverfox to a small chamber, off the main cathedral hall. Here, Silverfox
waited, as the bishop seated himself, before she herself, sat down.
“Tell me, of what troubles one so young….” Asked the
Bishop.
“I – I do not know where I stand – in the great
scheme of things….”
Delicately, the Bishop nodded in understanding. “You
feel lost – overwhelmed by what has – is – and will happen?”
Silverfox’s paws clenched in anger, and she bit back the tears, which
stung her eyes.
“Much anger you hold within you – release your anger
– let it go, or it will poison your body and spirit.” He spoke softly,
his voice calm and contemplative.
“Damn it all!” Silverfox wailed, her tears finally falling.
“Why are we made to suffer so much? I’ve lost almost everyone –
and everything….”
“You have suffered – we all have – but you must
not let your grief affect your judgement. I know of the loss of your parents
– and of your beloved friend – the Tashan wolf….”
“How – “
“How is irrelevant. You must learn to grieve for them, that
is normal – but do not let your grieving become the anger that consumes
you. Turn your grief – your anger – refine its power – harness
it…and turn it towards the forces of good. Your destiny lies shrouded
within the mists, and I do not think, that even Millar – could part these
mists, to foresee that which you shall do.”
“Why? Why was Mack killed? He was only still a pup?” Silverfox
wept bitterly.
“Who said that the Tashan is dead? No-one really dies my
young vixen…we only sleep – awaiting the call to rise, and live
once more.”
“Mack was almost like a brother to me….”
“I know that – but you must let the pain of his passing
go. Release the anger within you, or destroy you it will – and those you
care for….”
“Why are the Schinicin trying to recover the key and the
book of Zra-Chak? Why are they trying to bring the Star Dragon’s back
to life once more?” Silverfox asked.
“They are descended from the blood
of the Star Dragons. Thousands of years ago, when the Deities were more numerous,
they were each assigned an individual task, for them to complete. These tasks,
and the hardest for them all, were to create life. Being evil and rapacious,
the Star Dragon god sought to thwart the plans of the other Deities –
that and in such, make them fail in their tasks. Some of the other Deities seen
what the god of the Star Dragons was planning, and they exiled him forever….”
“What happened?” Silverfox wept.
“They exiled him – and he promised one day, to rise
up and wreak havoc across the galaxy once more.” Sighed the old Weasel Bishop.
“They laughed at him, and over the centuries, they forget he even existed. True
to his words, that day did come, and it was in this war, that Millar
was sorely pressed. As you know, it took the sacrifice of a young warrioress,
to deceive the evil Star Dragons, who were, in turn – imprisoned for all
eternity. Or such was meant to be. Millar created their prison, and wrote the
enchantment’s in a magical book, that was locked and heavily ensorcelled.
This tome, known as the Book of Zra-Chak, was secreted deep within the bowels
of the temple – before it was created. A crystal key was forged in the
process of creating the book, and it was later used to lock the book closed,
hopefully, for eternity. Once this was done, the key was shattered in to two
pieces, and scattered to the winds of the galaxy. It was believed, that the
key – would never be needed – nor would it ever be recovered…until
now….”
“What do you mean?” Silverfox sniffled.
Carefully, the Weasel reached out
and took Silverfox’s pendant in his paw. Silverfox looked down at it,
then back at the Weasel.
“I do not understand….”
“My dear child – this is part of the key…to
unlocking the book of Zra-Chak….”
“No – you’re mistaken. This is just a….”
Silverfox screamed, as the Weasel
placed his paw over hers, then squeezed gently. Silverfox felt herself fall
away, and she was thrust back through time, to witness the birth, rising and
downfall, of the Star Dragons. Finally, she witnessed their imprisonment, and
the sundering of the crystal key, of which indeed, part of her pendant was….
When he released her, Silverfox’s knees buckled and she collapsed to the
floor, gasping and shaking pitifully.
“Now you know the truth – and
I pray – that you are strong enough, for this burden….”
With a soft sigh, the Weasel flickered and vanished, as if he were a spirit….
***
Silverfox snapped awake, to find herself
lying in her warm bed, within the Temple. Vaguely, she recalled the previous
night, but it was elusive – like a dream…. Slowly, Silverfox sat
up, then rubbed her eyes, and squealed in alarm, when she saw the hooded acolyte
standing at the foot of her bed.
“Come – ” Spoke the acolyte. “It is time for the morning
feasting….”
With that, the acolyte turned and left the chambers, leaving a startled Silverfox
in his wake. Silverfox rose, then dressed in to some clean clothes that
had been laid out for her, before she made her way back to the Bishops main
chambers. Here, the others sat, along with the tired looking Weasel Bishop.
Carefully, the Weasel rose, then cleared his throat.
“A decision has been made – regarding Whitetail’s
training completion. He shall undertake the final test today…and may
Millar watch over him. Whitetail, are you at peace with yourself and Millar?”
“I am your Eminence.” Whitetail spoke, as he rose.
Silverfox stared at him, for he was dressed in a floor length flowing white
robe, which shone in the flickering torchlight.
“Within the hour,” Began the Weasel. “You shall pass through
the gateway, down in to the crypts and catacombs beneath the temple. Here, you
must pass the myriad of traps and guardians, then make your way to the chamber
of T’nath. Here, you must defeat the Star Dragon…and return with
evidence of your victory. You may not take any weapons or armour with you, except
that which you possess both physically and mentally. Do you wish to continue?”
“I do your eminence. I will complete my training, and return
– I promise.” Whitetail answered.
Sadly, the Weasel sighed and walked over towards Whitetail. Here, he gave the
young Pearldinean a quick hug, before he walked towards the exit of the chambers.
“May Millar bless you my child…and grant you the strength
you shall need, to overcome this test.”
Quietly, the Bishop made his way from the chambers, leaving the companions to
their breakfast meals – a meal – that could be Whitetail’s
last….
***
Far above the planet, holding their
relentless blockade, the Imperial navy waited patiently.
“Commander – report on the deployment of forces to
the Temple?” Asked the Grand Admiral.
“Sire – we’ve deployed an entire armoured division,
of thirty tanks, twelve armoured support vehicles and a total ground force of
one hundred infantry and other support personnel.”
“Excellent commander – you indeed show promise. When
is the attack planned?”
“Within two hours sir. We’re just moving some field
artillery in to defensive positions around the temple, and we have twelve Schinicin
aero-fighters standing by, in case of any attempted escapes.”
“What of the unconfirmed reports of the stolen shuttle seen
near this location?”
“Sire – reports indicate that the shuttle was seen
in this area, but as of yet, scans of the area have shown up negative. Some
form of dampening field is inhibiting our scans of the temple grounds and immediate
area.”
“I thought that the temple area was deserted?” Spoke the
Grand Admiral.
“Sire – our indications were that the temple was
abandoned, a thousand years ago. It is now apparent, that this information
is untrue, in that the temple grounds are inhabited, by a secular order who
worship the Meldaron goddess Millar.” Replied the Commander, as he reviewed
the new information that flickered across his display screens.
“Any evidence of possible resistance to our assault on the
temple?”
“Sire – all scans are being misdirected and warped
by the dampening field around the temple. It is uncertain wether there is heavy
weaponry located within the temple’s walls, or any other possible hidden
weapons….”
“What of protective shielding? Is any in evidence?”
“Negative sir – unable to verify if there is any shielding
defences. If there are, they are not yet activated.”
Grand Admiral Sith Hirr Draconis leaned
back in his impressive throne then gazed thoughtfully at his display screens.
“Sire – ground forces report readiness….” Spoke
the commander. “Awaiting your order sire.”
“Very well commander – consider the order given –
and remember. I want that temple taken. I do not care what it takes…do
you understand me?” Hissed the Grand Admiral.
“Yes Sire.” Replied the commander. “By your command sire.”
“Fire….” Spoke the Grand Admiral.
***
After their meal, Whitetail walked
through the temple, and he paused at the heavily guarded door, that led down
in to the crypts…. Here, the two Monk guards searched him, then opened
the door.
“Whitetail – ” Deerinea sniffled.
Whitetail paused, then turned his head to look back at her.
“My beloved – may Millar be with you….” Deerinea
sobbed, then turned and fled the chamber.
“As with you…my beloved mate….” Whitetail spoke
softly, then walked through the portal….
As the great doors boomed closed, Deerinea’s faint wails of anguish and
pain echoed through the stone chambers – as if signalling the defeat of
all hope. They made their way to the main cathedral, where the Weasel
Bishop led them in silent prayer that Whitetail would indeed succeed at his
quest, and return victorious. After thirty minutes, there was a sickening explosion
and the sounds of the dying. A young acolyte, his robes spattered with blood,
staggered in to the chambers.
“Your Eminence!” He gasped.
“What is happening?” Squealed the startled Bishop.
“My master – Schinicin forces have….” Gurgled
the young Meldaron, as he succumb to his grievous wounds and died.
Again, more deafening explosions rocked the temple.
“Attention!” Screamed the Bishop. “Schinicin forces have
invaded the sanctity of the temple grounds! Rise my children – cast down
the infidels!”
As one, the gathered Meldaron clergy rose, then fled the cathedral, taking their
assigned places, prepared to die to defend their Bishop – and their temple.
“What can we do?” Silverfox wept in terror.
“Take refuge – ” Replied the Weasel. “Please –
this isn’t your battle. Let us handle it.”
More Meldaron’s screamed in
agony, as the Schinicin tanks ripped apart the front doors, then burst in to
the main temple courtyard. Behind them, the Schinicin infantry followed, safely
shielded by the armoured tanks. On the surrounding hillsides, the Schinicin
artillery began mercilessly bombarding the temple buildings, as the tanks took
up defensive positions inside the temple grounds, then began systematically
attacking the buildings.
Turning away from the companions,
the Weasel knelt at the altar.
“Almighty Millar – grant us your righteous anger –
assist your young in their defence of your home! I plead with you, grant us
the strength to defeat the evil heretics that threaten your followers….”
More screams echoed through the temple, as the Schinicin infantry began spreading
out, cutting down the temple guards and monks.
“Millar – I beg of you, save your home!” Wailed the
priest….
As if answering him, there were sounds of surprise from outside, as a coruscating
shielding spread outwards, encircling the temple and it’s environs. Schinicin
artillery pounded the shielding, but was repelled.
“Your prayers have been answered – ” Come Millar’s
telepathic voice. “However, I may not interfere with this battle. You
alone – must defeat the heretics… .”
“Thank you – my mighty goddess – we will not
fail you….” Breathed the Weasel in righteous thanks. “Guards –
prepare for battle!”
“Come on – ” Silverfox snarled suddenly. “These people
have no chance against the Schinicin…let’s see if we can’t
help turn the battle against these reptilian attackers.”
Glider and Deerinea looked at Silverfox, then nodded quickly.
“No!” Pleaded the Bishop. “You must not interfere!”
“Your Eminence – ” Silverfox began. “With all due respect
– we would have fallen if it were not for your graciousness. You took
us in, have given us more than we could ever have hoped to repay – and
we will not stand back, and allow the Schinicin to destroy this place…and
your followers. We’ve got weapons – and we’ll fight –
to aid the cause of justice.”
With that, the Weasel sighed and fled the chambers, to seek out his temple guards
and organise the attack upon the Schinicin….
***
Aboard the Schinicin flagship, the
Grand Admiral sat staring at his screens.
“So – they do have force shielding?” He whispered.
“This complicated matters somewhat. Commander – prepare a full spread
of laser torpedoes, and position our ship for direct firing upon the temple….
Let us see – just how strong this temple really is….”
“At once sire.” Spoke the reptilian Commander, as the orders
were passed.
“Now – my young Meldaron’s – feel the full wrath
of the emperors might!”
***
Down in the temple, the battle was
turning badly against the Meldaron’s. They were outnumbered and their
weapons were only staves, swords and clubs – useless against the armed
and armoured Schinicin soldiers.
“General – move your forces back. Flagship is preparing
to fire.” Come a communication.
“Yes sir.” Spoke the reptilian general. “All forces –
fall back. Imminent strike against shielding from mother-ship….”
Quickly, the tanks withdrew, but the Schinicin foot soldiers took refuge in
the temple buildings. A deathly silence fell over the battlefield, as the Schinicin
waited for the orbital strikes to begin – and the Meldaron’s wondered
what was happening….
“They’re falling back – ” Yelled one of the Meldaron
temple guards.
“Oh no – ” Deerinea moaned. “That can mean only one
thing…an orbital air strike!”
There was the high pitched sounds
as the torpedoes streaked down through the heavens, then impacted on the energy
shielding that protected the temple. Almost instantly, the orbiting Star-Crusher
opened fire with its laser cannons. Bright green laser fire ripped in to the
shielding, and it flared and sparked – trying to maintain its integrity
against the hideously powerful weapon systems that the orbiting Star-Crusher
brought to bear upon them.
“Shield integrity is holding – but it can not withstand
this pounding….” Deerinea growled. “We’ve got to do something!”
“Schinicin foot soldiers!” Glider screamed above the horrendous
sounds of the sustained laser fire.
Immediately, the temple guards and the friends leapt for cover, as a squad of
a dozen Schinicin infantry opened fire. Deerinea fired back, shooting one of
the reptile soldiers. He staggered backwards, his green blood spurting over
the temple walls. Glider fired wildly, his shot ricocheting off the stone walls
and deflecting harmlessly away. Crouching in doorways and alcoves, the Schinicin
lay down a withering hail of laser fire, and Silverfox squealed, as a young
acolyte beside her was cut down, his body crashing to the ground. His blood
spattered Silverfox, as the Schinicin had nearly decapitated the young Meldaron.
Suddenly, the Meldaron temple guards simply vanished – as if in to thin
air.
“What the – ” Glider swore,
then ducked as the Schinicin edged closer.
“Keep your head down!” Deerinea snarled.
Silverfox lined up a Schinicin soldier, then neatly shot him through the chest.
His corpse staggered forwards another ten feet, before it realised it was dead
– then it fell and lay convulsing on the temple floor.
“Fall back – ” Deerinea screamed. “There is too many
of them!”
“What about you?” Silverfox wept. “We can not leave you!”
“GO!” Deerinea shrieked. “Get away! Fall back!”
Glider grabbed Silverfox, and they ran crouched over, as Deerinea lay down covering
fire for them, dropping two more of the reptilian soldiers. From no-where,
there was a hail of crossbow bolts. Catching the Schinicin off-guard, they were
momentarily surprised – and six of them felled – by the deadly bolts.
From behind them, five Meldaron temple guards materialised, armed with swords.
Before the startled Schinicin could react, they were cut down and the temple
guards vanished as mysteriously as they had appeared. Still, more Schinicin
infantry moved in to the hallway, their laser fire gouging great chunks and
gouges along the walls, ceiling and floor. Once again, the Meldaron temple guards
mysteriously appeared and lay in to the Schinicin, felling three more, but one
of the Schinicin soldiers spotted them – then cut them down with a light
blaster cannon. Deerinea took this opportunity to make good her own escape,
ducking in to a small doorway. Schinicin laser fire ripped in to the doorframe,
splintering it in to kindling.
“Glider – Deerinea’s trapped
– we’ve got to save her!” Silverfox wept.
“What can we do?” Glider moaned. “We’re outnumbered
– and our energy packs for our pistols are nearly depleted!”
Silverfox checked her own pitiful ammunition supply…indeed, they had
looked – and found themselves wanting.
“Glider – for what it’s worth…I love you….”
Silverfox wept.
“As I do you…come on – let’s take the
battle to the Schinicin….”
Together, they stepped out – at peace with each other – themselves
– and the world…prepared to die, for the cause….
Seeing the bombardment had no effect
on the shielding, the general called off the air strike assault. He sat safely
ensconced in his lead command and control vehicle, as he scanned the battlefield.
“General – ground forces in occupation of temple report
heavy resistance….” Come a radio communication.
“I know that – all forces – fall back and regroup.
I repeat – all forces – fall back and regroup.” Growled the Schinicin
General.
Slowly, the Schinicin troops and armoured division pulled back from the temple,
meeting no resistance. Inside the lead C&C vehicle, there was a soft shimmering
sound, and then a holographic image of the Grand Admiral appeared on the small
holo-pad.
“Explain yourself General – ” Growled the displeased
Grand Admiral. “Why have you retreated from battle.”
“Sire – orbital air strikes are non-effective against
this force shielding. Our forces are meeting considerable resistance…we’re
down to only sixty-five percent of total infantry….”
“I want results General – not excuses. I do not care
how many Schinicin you must send to their deaths…. I want that temple
area secured at all costs. Now General – carry out your orders –
or I will personally, have you executed for treason.”
“Sire – ” Stammered the General.
“General – I will not tell you again. Take
the temple – at any cost….”
With that, the holo-link was severed, leaving the reptilian
general fearing for his very life. Indeed, it would be more noble – to
die in combat, than it would – at the claws of the Imperial Grand Admiral….”
Within the temple, the Meldaron temple
guards fell back in to defensive positions then watched the Schinicin closely.
“They’ve retreated – ” Deerinea whispered in
surprise. “Also – their orbital attack has been suspended….”
“Why would they retreat? We’re out-gunned and outnumbered….”
Silverfox began.
“I know….” Deerinea wondered. “What are they planning?”
“Master! NO!” Cried one of the temple guards….
Deerinea, Silverfox and Glider looked
out over a shattered wall, to see the Weasel bishop walk out amongst the cracked
and broken tombstones of the temple graveyard. Immediately, the Schinicin moved
in and surrounded him.
“Why have you assaulted this place?” Come the Weasel’s
question. “This is a sacred and holy ground….”
“Give us the book of Zra-Chak – and we will leave you
and yours….” Come the General’s response.
“I shall never turn over the sacred texts to one’s
not of the faith….” Retorted the Bishop.
“You have no choice…. Give us that which we desire
– or we will level your temple, and kill any and all within its confines!
Give us the book, and we will let you live….”
“This holy work is not for the likes of reptilian heretics!
I will die, before I allow your kind to get their claws on the sacred book.”
“You can not win this war…it is pointless trying to
fight us…. You have a chance to live, so why do you insist on prolonging
this senseless slaughter?”
“If you kill me – then you will never find the
holy tome….” Spoke the Weasel softly.
“Order your followers to come out – and surrender their
weapons. His Imperial majesty will let them go – but you – will
turn over the tome, and then, be allowed to leave.
Weighing the options, the Weasel was
silent, then he bowed his head in silent prayer. In small groups, the Meldaron
temple guards, priests and others came out, then were ordered from the temple
grounds. Last to come out, were Deerinea, Silverfox and Glider….
“You there!” Snarled the Schinicin general. “Halt!”
He emerged from his vehicle, then approached the trio. They obediently stopped,
then waited as he came closer, then glanced quickly at a small data-pad….
“Well well….” He began. “It seems that we’ve
stumbled on a rare treasure…a very elusive treasure….”
Deerinea rose to her full height, her military bearing coming to the front.
Slowly, the general approached, then six Schinicin soldiers took up defensive
positions, their weapons trained on the three Meldaron’s.
“What are your names?” Hissed the general.
“I am – ” Deerinea began. “Lieutenant Deerinea, field
operative under the command of General Luskow, by order of his majesty, King
Reyard Russet. My serial number is L-914-C2-1.”
Quickly, the Schinicin general glanced at the data-pad, and then he looked at
Silverfox and Glider.
“It is…a distinct displeasure – that I meet
you both.” He growled.
Silverfox bit back her words – but only just. “I am Silverfox, a
native of Tasher, and my companion is Glider – a hyooman from a neighbouring
system….” Silverfox grated through her gritted teeth.
There was a soft chirp from the General’s communicator. He retrieved it
from his belt, then spoke something in to it. A voice answered, and then he
replaced it.
“By order of his Imperial majesty, I hereby place you three
under arrest….”
“On what charges?” Glider snarled.
A Schinicin soldier leapt forwards,
then cracked Glider across the back of the head with his rifle butt. Glider
croaked and crumpled to the ground.
“Watch your tongue boy….” Hissed the reptile. “Be
respectful….”
“Kiss my…ass….” Glider gurgled.
Again, the Schinicin moved to strike, but the general stopped him.
“I like you – Glider….” Spoke the general. “You’ve
got courage…. I respect that.”
“You said that the others – would be free to go!” Pleaded
the Weasel.
“I’ve changed my mind – ” Replied the General.
“These three – are wanted for crimes against the Empire….”
“So – you change the rules – to suit yourselves?”
Replied the Weasel.
“I do – pray that I do not change them any further….”
Retorted the General.
“Then – you leave me with no other course of resolving
this conflict….”
Without warning, the Weasel screamed
something, then the very ground began bucking and heaving, as if something huge
and alive was rending it apart, clawing its way to the surface….
Schinicin and Meldaron alike were
thrown to their knees, as a massive ground tremor ripped across the grounds…then
there was a deathly silence…. Within seconds, the graves exploded –
their dirt and leaves erupting in to the air, as hundreds of corpses clawed
their way up out of the earth. Some were skeletons, their bones encrusted with
dirt and the tattered burial robes, whilst others, were fetid zombies, the flesh
falling from their still rotting bodies with sickening plops. Silverfox, Glider
and Deerinea stared in morbid horror, as the undead began pouring from the graves,
waves after waves of them. A terrified Schinicin soldier opened fire –
then within a heartbeat, there was dozens of Schinicin firing wildly at the
merciless tide of undead, that shambled towards them. Sobbing, the Weasel raised
his palms to the sky, then wailed in grief and pain. A large half rotted corpse
shuffled over to the Bishop, then it sank to one knee, it’s flesh peeling
away from snow white bones.
“We have come – ” Come the deep grating voice from
the decomposing Alchemian’s rotting vocal cords. “What is your bidding
– our master?”
“Destroy them…destroy them all!” Wept the Weasel….
Schinicin soldiers fired wildly, blasting dozens of corpses and skeletons in
to hideous and grotesque pieces. Amidst the confusion, Silverfox, Glider and
Deerinea ran to cover, and hid behind a wall. More and more rotting corpses
streamed from the temple, seemingly without end. Soon, the Schinicin were being
cut down – the merciless undead soldiers literally tearing the Schinicin
limb from limb. For each undead soldier the Schinicin cut down, five took its
place.
“Fall back! Fall back!” Screamed the Schinicin general. “All
units – fall back!”
Disarray and chaos reigned, as fears overcome the Schinicin soldiers –
driving some of them crazy. They fired at anything that moved – even cutting
down their own troops. Tirelessly, the undead army swarmed the Schinicin soldiers,
then there was the hideous sounds of the reptile soldiers death screams –
followed by low moans from the hundreds of undead soldiers. They swarmed over
and around the Schinicin tanks. Great explosions rocked the undead horde –
as the Schinicin’s fired their tank guns in to the seething undead hordes.
Still – they kept coming, swarming the tanks and immobilising them. Silverfox
watched in horror, as an artillery shell landed amongst a group of the undead,
blasting their fetid corpses in to amorphous chunks of rotting flesh. One zombie
clawed its way along the ground – towards the Schinicin tanks. It had
been cut in half, but kept moving, dragging itself along the ground….
Silverfox retched at the sickening
scent from the rotting corpses, and the horror of it all struck her heavily.
These undead, some dead for centuries – others recently interred –
all of them – were the ultimate in military forces. They would never desert
– they would never surrender – they would keep coming, despite what
you done to them…. As if reading her disturbed thoughts, Deerinea glanced
at the wide-eyed Silverfox.
“How can you – ” Deerinea asked. “Kill something –
that is already dead?”
“You – can not….” Silverfox gurgled.
For over an hour and a half, the undead army tore in to the Schinicin armoured
division, eventually ripping open the hatches, then dragging the screaming reptilian
soldiers from the tanks – and tearing them apart limb from limb. When
at last the battle was over, the battlefield was littered with chunks of undead
– and the more gruesome – remains of the torn asunder Schinicin
forces. Slowly, the undead milled about, then spotted Deerinea, Silverfox and
Glider. Eagerly, the undead horde moved purposefully towards them….
“NO!” Silverfox screamed, as she backed away. “Go
away! Leave us alone!”
Kill…kill…kill… Came the Undead’s
chant.
Glider grabbed Silverfox and dragged her backwards, away from the approaching
undead. Deerinea wept, then rose and faced the throng of dead Meldaron’s.
“Orak – dracnar…tireth!” Deerinea screamed.
Kill…kill…kill…
“Orak – dranar…tireth – kazrak!” Deerinea
wailed.
Their undead leader, the zombie Alchemian
paused, as did the rest of the undead horde.
“Sith – tirak, nai de!” Deerinea commanded them.
“Tirak – nei Drak-charnath?” Grated the undead Alchemian.
“Tirak – nei chadar nith-ra.”
“We…go.” Grated the Alchemian.
As one, the undead army turned, then
marched back across the corpse-strewn battlefield, and returned to their graves.
Those who had no graves returned in to the temple, and back down in to the catacombs
and crypts below…. Deerinea slumped to her knees, then drew great shaking
breaths. Silverfox’s heightened smell detected the sweat, which had soaked
Deerinea’s soft fur….
“What – what was that ?” Glider gasped then
drew his cape over his nose, as the winds blew the stench of the corpses over
them all….
“I…had to command the undead – or else –
” Deerinea retched. “They would have slaughtered us as well….”
“What…oh…no !” Silverfox wailed, as
she saw the Weasel withdraw a silver dagger, then drive it deep in to his softly
furred stomach….
“NO!” Deerinea screamed, then ran to the Weasel. “Master…no!”
Blood ran over the Weasel’s
paws, and stained his robe crimson. Deerinea tore the dagger free, noting the
sickening notched blade…and the grievous wound it made, upon being dislodged.
Immediately, Deerinea knelt and forced her paws against the grievous –
and obviously mortal – wound.
“My child – let me die….” Gurgled the Weasel,
blood frothing on his muzzle.
“Master…I can not let you do this…you will
live….”
“It is…too late – my child. That knife –
was poisoned. Nothing can stop it now….”
“Master – ” Deerinea wept. “Without you….”
“I…” Gasped the Weasel. “I had no choice!”
“Silverfox – Glider – get me something to use
as padding…hurry!” Deerinea screamed.
Immediately, Silverfox and Glider
fled. They returned shortly, with a clean robe. Deerinea used the dagger to
cut up the robe in to bandages and a thick wad, which she used as padding, trying
to staunch the flow of blood. Together, Deerinea and Glider carried the
critically wounded Weasel in to the main cathedral, where they lay him on the
floor. Silverfox placed a thick robe over the Weasel, as his convulsions began,
nearly tearing him apart.
“I…had no…choice….” He gurgled….
“He is delirious….” Glider wept.
“No – he is still lucid.” Deerinea countered. “I know
this poison…it is very slow acting…and exceptionally agonising
to suffer….”
“My…young….” He gasped, more blood flecking
his lips. “Go….”
“I will not leave you master….” Deerinea wept. “I
will not leave you….”
“Millar – watch over you….” He cried, as the
convulsions ripped in to him.
“Master – ” Deerinea sobbed. “Is it true? Is the Tome
of Zra-Chak within the temple?”
Barely capable of breathing, the Weasel began choking. When
he could finally draw a shallow breath, he pulled Deerinea close, then whispered
in her ears.
“It…is hidden – within the altar…”
A bone-crushing convulsion seized
the Weasel, making him buck and writhe in mortal agony. Deerinea wept bitterly,
knowing that her beloved master was soon to die…and because of what he
had done – in raising the dead – his spirit would be forever tarnished.
It would never be able to rest, instead, cast out in to the emptiness of the
netherworld, where he would suffer for eternity. From the far side of
the main cathedral, came a bloodied and weary creature. Blood soaked its robes
and it left sticky bloodied footprints as it staggered across the temple floor,
then collapsed. Silverfox and Glider ran to it, then rolled it over, to see
the agonised expression of Whitetail, blood smothering his head and neck.
“Deerinea…we need you!” Glider screamed.
Deerinea turned her back on her dying master then ran to where Glider and Silverfox
knelt beside the critically wounded Whitetail.
“Whitetail….” Deerinea wept.
“I…done it.” Whitetail choked, then convulsed. “I
completed…the training….”
Using sheer willpower, the grievously injured Whitetail crawled to his hooves,
then staggered towards where his master lay stricken. Glider and Deerinea took
Whitetail by the arms, then led him closer, to where the final convulsions were
seizing the dying Weasel bishop.
“Master – ” Whitetail gasped. “I completed….”
With a final bone-jarring convulsion, the Weasel gurgled…then died. Whitetail
and Deerinea threw back their heads and wailed with bone chilling screams, mourning
the passing of their beloved master…and teacher….
As Whitetail’s strength gave
out, he collapsed and they watched, as a spectral image of the Weasel materialised
before them….
“My child – my heart is still now – but I am
gladdened, to see you passed the final test. I can not change that – which
I have done – and nor would I. My time – is limited. Already, the
dark-ones come for my spirit…and I have but little time. Please –
take the book of Zra-Chak…and keep it from the Schinicin…. In
this – you must not falter. If they can – get the key to
the book – then all is lost….
“Master – the ritual of T’Neth…I could….”
Whitetail croaked.
“No Whitetail….” Whispered the Weasel. “I will not
permit you to do that…. I have gravely dishonoured the spirits of the
fallen…and betrayed…Millar herself. I done wrong, in raising the
dead…and now – I must be punished for my crimes…. Take what
you have earned – and pass on – your training….”
They fell back, as a black swirling maelstrom opened beneath the Weasel. He
stared at them, and then great inky black tentacles reached up through this
portal, and seized the Weasel in their bone-shattering embrace. He smiled weakly
at his students, then was dragged down in to the dark maw. Before it closed,
he uttered a long…chilling and undulating scream – of mortal agony
– and terror…that would go on – for eternity…. When
the dark portal slammed closed, there was a deafening peal of thunder –
which shook the temple to its very foundations…. Statues fell and shattered
on the floor, and great cracks ripped through the tiled floor, from which, come
the screams of the damned and an eerie crimson glow, that slowly faded, as did
the agonised screams – which pleaded for mercy – that would never
come….
Whitetail coughed and sobbed softly,
then knelt on the cold stone floor. Deerinea delicately placed her paw on his
quaking shoulders, then squeezed comfortingly.
“He did – what he felt was right….” Deerinea
wept.
“Why? Why was he forced in to this decision?” Whitetail wailed.
“He knew – that there was no other chance…to
save us all…. He condemned himself, to save us….” Deerinea told
him gently.
“Whitetail – you need…some urgent medical help….”
Glider sniffled.
Whitetail rose on weak hooves, then stared at them all.
“I did not…risk my own soul – on a fools errand. Witness –
the powers of a fully trained Warrior of Millar’s Order….”
Whitetail squeezed his eyes closed, then held out his shaking
paws. Faintly, then brighter and brighter, his paws began to glow, with a white
radiance. Soon, it reached a blinding intensity, and Whitetail made a strange
series of gestures…and to their surprise, his wounds fused closed the
flesh mending and the torn fur matting itself back together. Within moments,
only the blood on his torn robes and fur were the indications of his once grievous
wounds – that he had received, in combating the Star-Dragon….
“Sweet blessings of Millar – ” Glider exploded. “How….”
“I have consummated my training and now, I have come in to
my full potential. My powers are many and varied and can be used for healing
– or attack.” Whitetail spoke. “Which reminds me…. Silverfox, I
have a message for you…from someone you knew…and loved with all
your heart….”
“Who….” Silverfox asked.
Whitetail gestured, and then Mack’s
corpse was brought in to the chambers and laid on the altar. Silverfox burst
in to tears when she seen it, and ran to his side. Here, she knelt and buried
her muzzle against his still chest, her sobbing tearing her apart.
“Silverfox – I can – if you wish – bring
him back to you….” Whitetail spoke.
Deerinea’s jaw fell open and she nearly fainted. If it had not been for
Glider, she would surely have fallen.
“How can you say such?” Silverfox wailed in grief.
“Silverfox – listen to me….” Whitetail spoke,
his voice soft, but touched with a sharp stern command. “It is called the ritual
of T’Neth…. It is an ancient ritual – that has not been practiced
in over five hundred years….”
“Whitetail….” Deerinea pleaded.
“It is her decision my beloved – I must allow Silverfox
the opportunity – to decide for herself….” Whitetail spoke softly.
Silverfox looked at her beloved friend’s
corpse, then burst in to new tears.
“I…need time to think….” Silverfox wailed.
“Take as much time as you require….” Whitetail spoke.
“I must tend to the other wounded, and set things right…. Millar has
been raised from her centuries of sleep, and it is I, who must try to soothe
her – in relations to the vile crimes that my master has committed.”
“What – what of the Schinicin?” Glider asked.
“I do not think – the Schinicin will bother us again….
At least, not any time soon. We have given them a resounding beating here…but
they will be back – and in much larger numbers.”
Whitetail bowed, then left the chambers quietly. Deerinea and Glider left as
well, leaving Silverfox to her difficult decision.
They walked out on to the littered
battlefield, then surveyed the wreckage and mayhem that lay strewn about. Already,
the surviving Meldaron soldiers, temple guards and followers – were clearing
the area, looks of sickened horror on their faces.
“Why did he do it?” Glider asked Deerinea.
“Our master – did what he felt was right…. He
knew that Millar was powerless to stop this, and he deliberately disobeyed her…and
called forth the dead. This crime – even I can never forgive him
for.” Deerinea whispered.
“You – hold that sacred….”
“Glider – you are not one of us…and never will
be. I still, respect you and your own beliefs, but the dead – have earned
their eternal sleep. It is unimaginable, that someone would dare to raise
them – no matter for what purpose. Our master knew this – but he
openly defied Millar – and now – he shall pay for the crimes against
not only her – but the dead as well….”
“Do you not understand?” Glider growled. “He did it to save
you all!”
“Glider – please…try to understand. To us, it
is better to die in combat…than it is to live as an oppressed people.
When our master raised the dead – he broke every rule that the Meldaron
people have ever believed in – and respected. He brought dishonour both
to himself…and to those that he has raised from the dead. They will be
forgiven –, as they had to obey his commands – but our master –
shall suffer for eternity…for the heinous crimes that he has committed.
For eternity, he shall suffer the pain and terror of their righteous wrath…and
as cruel as it sounds, I can not bring myself to forgive him….” Deerinea
spoke quietly, as she walked towards one of the motionless Schinicin tanks.
“Lieutenant Deerinea – wait!”
Spoke one of the soldiers. “It’s not safe!”
Deerinea ignored the soldier, then climbed up the gore-spattered tank. Quickly,
she looked inside, then staggered backwards, and leapt from the tank –
as she was violently sick.
“Lieutenant?” Asked the soldier.
Deerinea continued vomiting, then managed to weakly wave him away.
“Medic!” Yelled the soldier. “Medic!”
“I…am alright.” Deerinea gasped heavily. “It’s
just – I…I was not prepared for what I saw in there….”
Glider climbed up then looked inside…. His face paled and he likewise
staggered back off the tank then fell to his knees. Inside the tank, was
a Schinicin tank operator, who had been seemingly turned inside out….
It’s reptilian entrails pooled about its scaled feet, in places, blood
soaked bones poking through it’s torn and shredded scaled hide. What was
worse, was the look of righteous maliciousness, which adorned its still muzzle….
“My god – ” Glider gagged. “What done that to him?”
“Quite possibly – he done that himself….” Deerinea
retched.
“He – “
“All Schinicin are bred for one purpose – to serve
the emperor. If they can not surrender, then they are under orders to take their
own lives…. We are quite fortunate – in that – he did not
activate the destruct sequence – which would have annihilated this tank,
and set off a chain reaction amongst them all…. We must work swiftly,
to deactivate the destruct controls – as they may be activated by the
orbiting Star-Crushers….”
Deerinea looked up then barked a sharp
command. Immediately, two Meldaron soldiers came running then set to work on
the tank, deactivating the powerful explosive devices located within and under
the tank. Deerinea watched them work, then growled and set to work on another
of the tanks, as she realised, that they were rapidly running out of time….
Indeed – time was something – they did not have much left of….
***
On the bridge of his flagship, the
Grand Admiral had watched the battle on the planet below. When it was complete
– he sat back in his throne and exhaled softly, a worried look crossing
his reptilian snout. Never in the Schinicin’s entire history – had
they suffered such a catastrophic defeat – and the Grand Admiral, for
once in his long life – grew concerned.
“Commander – ” Whispered Sith Hirr Draconis. “Call
remaining forces back.”
“Sire?”
“Do it!” Raged the Grand Admiral.
Quickly, the Commander issued the recall order, ordering the troops to stand
down and return to their bases on Meldaron.
“You have won this battle my Meldaron enemies – but
the war is far from over…you may be assured of that!”
“Sire – the Emperor demands you make contact with him
– he seeks an update on the war….”
Slowly, the great dragon raised his bulk from his throne, then he turned and
left the chambers, his scaled head bowed in concern and apprehension. Indeed,
this was a totally alien sensation to the Grand Admiral – the feeling
of being – for the first time in centuries….
He felt frightened….
To Be Continued.