Lyssa Thorne's
Science Fiction Novels
Double Dragon Ebooks
WARNING:
CONTENT MAY NOT BE SUITABLE FOR GENERAL AUDIENCES DUE TO EXPLICIT SEXUAL CONTENT.
“CRYSTALIS”
EPISODE 72 – BETRAYAL
BY: LYSSA THORNE
SUPER: Reincarnation can be great. You can start anew. All the memories wiped clean. Until you wake up and all the forgotten memories slam you. In the beginning, I went by the name Sannaro. That was only half of the problem. Now I know.
FADE IN:
INT. SANNARO'S OFFICE, KUMANI
Sannaro sat in his Senior Vizha’e office on the upper flight deck of the Astrisi ship Kumani. As he worked on requisitions and training reports, he sensed Ambrika approach his door.
SANNARO
Akla.
Ambrika walked in.
AMBRIKA
I knew you were going to do that.
SANNARO
Many are caught by surprise.
AMBRIKA
I’m a telepath too.
SANNARO
Houk, you have an advantage. So, what brings you here?
AMBRIKA
I’m here to ask you something as my father, not as a pilot.
Sannaro set the page he was reading down on the desk.
SANNARO
Okay.
Ambrika radiated a miasma of emotion from dread to anxious worry.
SANNARO
What’s wrong?
Ambrika sighed deeply and reluctantly looked at him.
AMBRIKA
Jeremy wants to return to New Sailia.
SANNARO
What? I know Jeremy is assured a job but what would you do there? You’re a warrior!
AMBRIKA
Father, please don’t drill a hole through my mind with your eyes.
Sannaro diverted his eyes to study the wall.
AMBRIKA
I love you, Father. Please listen to me.
SANNARO
I asked. Explain.
AMBRIKA
You say repeatedly that the Saili fighters don’t measure up to the skills of the Astrisi. I talked it over with Uncle Devasru –
SANNARO
Without me knowing?
AMBRIKA
Well I don’t have to ask you if I can call relatives!
SANNARO
Point, taken.
AMBRIKA
I was thinking about the history of the Astrisi, how the Gasbajans taught the Astrisi how to fight invaders. I thought it would be good for an Astrisi to teach the New Saili the Astrisi techniques of defense.
Sannaro sighed deeply and rubbed his chin with his hand to try to keep his swelling emotions under control.
AMBRIKA
I’m sorry, I didn’t want to make you cry.
SANNARO
Nui, you’re reasoning is sound. You’re still a teen in Saili years but you’re newly married so I really don’t see how or why I should tell you that you can’t go.
Ambrika stepped around the desk to hug Sannaro’s shoulders.
Sannaro kissed Ambrika’s forearm then laid his head on the same arm.
SANNARO
It’s just that, I was hoping since you married Jeremy, you both would choose to live on the Kumani. I guess that was short-sighted on my part.
AMBRIKA
I’m not leaving forever, Dad. You and Mom can visit us on New Sailia when you come to port anyways since you visit Uncle Devasru and Aunt Tsekani every chance you get.
SANNARO
Very true.
AMBRIKA
We’re just going to live there until I think the New Saili pilots are good enough to pass a test against you.
SANNARO
I’d be very impressed if they could pass my test.
AMBRIKA
There’s a good reason why they call you Tsikakayu. Now I think it’s time for me to make a reputation for myself. It’s not easy to be the daughter of the Tsikakayu, you know?
SANNARO
I know you’ve felt uncomfortable under my shadow. You’re right, it is time for you to make your own reputation. Train them well, my daughter.
AMBRIKA
I will, Dad. Fa’arata for understanding and giving me your blessing, I do care about your feelings. You’ve been a great father and a fantastic training instructor. I know I can teach the Saili what you taught me.
SANNARO
I’ll miss you, Little Rose.
AMBRIKA
I’ll miss you too, Lively.
SANNARO
Oh, bla'ua and get to packing, you scamp!
AMBRIKA
I thought you were the scamp.
SANNARO
You inherited the scamp tendency, too. Now off with you! I have work to do.
AMBRIKA
Houk, Senior Vizha’e.
Ambrika left the office.
Sannaro wiped his eyes one more time before he picked up the report again.
After a few lines, he sensed Cherna was approaching from the classroom with her mind stormy.
SANNARO
Akla.
Cherna swept in without notice that the door opened before she arrived.
CHERNA
Did Ambri talk to you?
SANNARO
Houk, she did.
CHERNA
Did you try to talk her out of it?
SANNARO
Cherna, love, she’s a married woman now. I could try to talk her out of it till I’m as blue as Marc Daniels, but it won’t make a difference.
CHERNA
Sannaro!
SANNARO
Cherna, she has good reasons.
CHERNA
But she wants to leave!
SANNARO
I know we both wanted her to remain on the Kumani, but she wants to make a name for herself away from my shadow.
Cherna’s eyes filled with tears.
Sannaro stood up and took her in his arms.
SANNARO
Sweetheart, we can’t keep our children at home forever.
CHERNA
I can’t believe you’re not crying.
SANNARO
You think I didn’t cry? I did tear up a bit but Ambri really believes she can train the Saili to be more proficient as a defense force. That would only improve their chances of surviving anything they face.
CHERNA
You’re acting the Tsikakayu all the time anymore.
SANNARO
These visions I get say I have something important to do. He repeatedly tells me I’m getting better, but never why he wants me to get better and it’s always after I survive an intense fight. All I have to go on is the legend that says the Tsikakayu will be one of the lost children who will reveal himself to save the Saili.
CHERNA
I’ve heard the story. How do you even know for sure you’re really this lost child who will save the Saili?
SANNARO
Because he told me he is who the Saili call the Great Forger. I don’t think a god would bother with a deviant orphan who doesn’t even live on Sailia unless he has a purpose for me. And, as for Ambri, we visit New Sailia all the time so we can visit her and Jeremy whenever we come to port.
CHERNA
My baby is moving away.
SANNARO
I know she is and your heart hurts about her decision, but she’s not that little girl who splashed me in the bathtub until my hair was dripping with water. It’s time to let her choose her own path.
CHERNA
My head knows it, but my heart –
SANNARO
I know, lover, you’ll need some time to grieve. Andu doesn’t have any plans to go anywhere. You know he’ll bring us his latest pottery throwing and ask us if we like it.
Cherna chuckled and wiped her face dry.
SANNARO
There, that’s better. Is your class at study hall?
CHERNA
Houk.
SANNARO
Then let’s go to the cafeteria and have a slow late lunch and just enjoy each others company.
Cherna nodded.
Sannaro took her hand and they walked together to the elevator to leave the Upper Flight Deck.
(LATER)
Later that day, Sannaro was back in his office when he sensed the Commander of the Kumani was approaching his door.
SANNARO
Akla. Wanted an excuse to get off the bridge, Hadah?
Hadah chuckled as he stopped before Sannaro’s desk.
HADAH
You like to do that way too much, my friend.
SANNARO
You wouldn’t believe how many people have been at my door today.
HADAH
I can. Do you know about Ambri’s request?
SANNARO
She came to me this morning to tell me.
HADAH
Are you all right with it?
Sannaro felt his feeling surge again so he wiped his face with his hand.
SANNARO
Hadah, you know as a father as much as I do that we can’t keep our kids at home, no matter how we feel. She’s going to New Sailia for a good reason so I support her. That doesn’t mean I won’t miss my little girl.
HADAH
I still miss my own daughter, Na'is, but she’s happy with her family and her life on the Furdusi, so I do understand. I just wanted you to know that Ambri asked to disembark at our next landing at New Sailia. How are you doing?
SANNARO
You mean since I was beaten to a pulp and nearly killed by Hadeon?
HADAH
That’s what I mean. Hadeon was so brutal to you and Cherna.
SANNARO
We’re healing. So, how long are you going to want me to stay your Senior Vizha’e?
HADAH
Something is telling me to keep you on. I think Hadeon was just the beginning.
SANNARO
Human instinct?
HADAH
And that you tell me you regularly get visions about the Great Forger telling you to be ready when he needs you. Frankly, that thought that your skills will be needed soon really scares me. You’ll need the rank to give you more privilege to advise me about what you need to do.
SANNARO
So when do we land at New Sailia?
HADAH
Since we’re at Aquila, I don’t see why we can’t swing out to New Sailia next. Well, just came to ask if you knew about Ambri’s request. Later, San.
SANNARO
Later, Hadah.
Hadah left Sannaro’s office.
INT. UPPER FLIGHT DECK, KUMANI
Several days later, Sannaro stood somberly beside a shuttle as Stevedores hovered several palates of Ambrika’s belongings into the shuttle.
Ambrika stepped out of the elevator and put her hands on her hips.
AMBRIKA
Don’t stand there looking like you lost your favorite cat again, Ya.
SANNARO
You think I shouldn’t feel sad? My little girl is leaving home.
JEREMY (PSI V.O.)
Ambri, honey, he will miss you so allow him to grieve.
DEVASRU
I promise I’ll take good care of her, San.
SANNARO
I know you will. I’ll just miss her deeply.
DEVASRU
Of course you will; you’re her father. I still miss you and Varanani when you leave New Sailia after your short visits but I always look forward to your return. You’ll learn how to cope with it.
STEVEDORE
San, we’re done packing the shuttle.
SANNARO
Fa’arata. Anyone who is going to New Sailia with Ambri and Jeremy needs to board the shuttle. Departure is in approximately ten minutes. Seating is limited due to cargo.
Cherna and Andoku walked up the ramp.
Behind them, Danu carried Marcario and Varanani had Indumati cradled in her arms.
Di'ok talked quietly with his mother Ba'ia who had her arms around his and Sha'ya’s sons Aki’iki and Matai as they waited for the ramp to clear.
Ku'an stopped beside Sannaro.
KU'AN
You’re braver than I am, letting your Little Rose go like this.
SANNARO
I told you to let me take care of Cherna. Now I have to allow Jeremy to take care of Ambrika. Like Cherna, Ambrika’s a warrior. I have to believe she can defend herself from anything she faces. She’s going for a good reason so I couldn’t find an argument for why she should stay, so I have to say goodbye to my girl.
KU'AN
Like I said, you’re braver than I am.
SANNARO
You’re brave enough to go to New Sailia to see her to her new life. Don’t sell yourself short, Ku'an.
KU'AN
I guess you have a point. Your sister’s gotten through to me after all.
SANNARO
I’m glad.
KU'AN
I should thank you for not executing me and giving me that chance to learn better. It’s funny; I had to regain my life by letting you beat the crap out of me.
SANNARO
You’re still my wife’s father. I would’ve hurt her terribly if I had deprived her of her father. So, sorry, but I had a totally selfish motive.
KU'AN
You’re a strange man, Sannaro. That’s why it takes longer for the rest of us to understand why you do the things you do.
Ku'an walked up the ramp.
Sannaro shook his head before he followed Ku'an up the ramp and closed the hatch. He walked to the pilot’s chair and sat down beside Ambrika.
SANNARO
Last time to fly with me for a while, Ambri. Make it good.
AMBRIKA
I will, Ya.
SANNARO
Shuttle One, requesting mag-pull to lift.
FLIGHT CONTROL (V.O.)
Houk, Shuttle One, beginning mag-pull to lift. We, in flight control, all wish Ambri the best on New Sailia.
AMBRIKA
Fa’arata, I’ll miss you, but you know we’ll meet again.
FLIGHT CONTROL (V.O.)
Always, Ambri. Good flight, San.
SANNARO
See you soon.
Sannaro checked the systems while the magnetic pulleys pulled the shuttle to the massive lift and stopped.
The klaxons blared and the mechanical voice warned that the lift was engaged. The shuttle slowly rose to the retrieval deck on the top of the Kumani.
INT./EXT. SANNARO DAMIRATEYAK INTERGALACTIC SPACE PORT, NEW SAILIA
After a fifteen minute flight, Sannaro lowered the shuttle to the tarmac at the space port and opened the hatch. He took a deep breath before he stood up and went to the ramp. To his surprise, he was greeted warmly but the majority flocked around Ambrika. Sannaro arched his eyebrows and smiled as he watched her respond to their greeting.
Devasru watched beside the ramp.
DEVASRU
I thought you’d be relieved you’re not the center of attention this time.
SANNARO
Funny, I should be relieved yet I find myself a little disappointed. She’s here to help their defense force. She should be greeted.
DEVASRU
Yet you always said you disliked their attention.
SANNARO
Not as badly as I thought or maybe I got used to it. I’ll be glad to let her have the attention.
DEVASRU
So, how have you been, San?
SANNARO
I’ve been going through a lot of adjustment since I defeated Hadeon. Being so aggressively hunted was a nightmare.
DEVASRU
And how is Cherna?
SANNARO
She’s doing better, too. She didn’t want to allow Ambri to move here but I told her that now Ambri’s a married woman who has to live her own life.
DEVASRU
You’re feeling sad too.
SANNARO
I’m feeling sad, but I learned from the fight I had with Ku'an, who’s here by the way, that he couldn’t control his adult daughter’s decisions. I’m taking my own advice.
DEVASRU
I’m glad Ku'an decided to come see his granddaughter move to her new home. Where’s Zhad?
SANNARO
He doesn’t fly well anymore. He says the climate and pressure changes make his arthritis hurt more.
DEVASRU
Humanoids are so short-lived. I understand, he’s not young anymore and he’s performed thousands of surgeries. How is Adara?
SANNARO
She’s not moving as well as she did either. She’s announced Andu as her successor as Senior Potter.
DEVASRU
I see Ba'ia is still doing as well as expected at her age. Cherna’s mother is a nice woman. Ku'an’s definitely improved a lot since he’s worked with Vara.
SANNARO
He has.
Sannaro stepped down to the ground and moved toward the crowd.
SANNARO
This sunlight feels so good.
DEVASRU
It’s a beautiful day to celebrate my grandniece moving into her first home as an adult.
SANNARO
If you don’t mind, I think I’d like to take a walk to enjoy this nice day. For some reason, I feel depleted and the sunlight is invigorating me.
Devasru pressed the keys into Sannaro’s hand.
DEVASRU
Take my hover car and relax. You’re overdue for some downtime.
Sannaro stepped down to the ground and moved toward the crowd as he gripped the keys.
SANNARO
Wow, first time you’re trusting me to drive your car.
DEVASRU
Don’t be a smart ass, nephew. Get out of here.
Sannaro chuckled and moved toward the car.
SANNARO (PSI V.O.)
Cheri, I’m going to wander a bit and enjoy this nice day. See you later.
CHERNA (PSI V.O.)
It’s about time you relaxed. Later, lover.
Sannaro climbed into the car, started it up and drove out of the spaceport.
In the distance he saw some small mountains and found himself drawn to them. He turned toward them and opened the throttle as far as it would go, settled in and watched the greenery blur by.
EXT. NEW SAILIA MOUNTAINS - DAY
He wandered slowly along the mountainside and enjoyed the unhurried pace. From his senses, no one was near him for kilometers.
As he looked up the ridge to watch the clouds roll by, he saw bright light glint off something barely seen over the ridge. Overcome with curiosity, he climbed up to the glint. He topped the ridge and stopped in shock.
Before him was a very odd monument. The form was roughly humanoid but it was made of angular crystal. More confusing was the base that had the one word Tsikakayu.
He walked around the statue to see all the details. He was puzzled that the angled crystal features were very similar to his own Saili face. He moved around to the back of the statue then slid into a defensive crouch at the sight of an Aurum Saili woman who wore a tan robe with her hood covering her copper hair that cascaded down the front of her robe.
SANNARO
Who are you and how did you get here?
HAELATIKA
Relax, Sannaro.
She swept around the statue.
Sannaro adjusted his stance to follow her movements.
HAELATIKA
You are very distrusting, but that would be a desirable trait in the Tsikakayu.
SANNARO
So, if I’m the Tsikakayu, why does this statue look nothing like me?
HAELATIKA
It doesn’t?
SANNARO
Are you always cryptic?
HAELATIKA
Are you always defensive?
Sannaro drew his legs together and took on a relaxed, yet alert posture.
HAELATIKA
And how do you know it is wrong?
SANNARO
The others don’t look like this. So you’re saying they’re wrong?
HAELATIKA
No, that is not what I am saying.
SANNARO
Now you’re just confusing me, and you never told me your name. You are clearly a non-mutated Saili so you should know social protocol, yet you know my name and I don’t know yours.
HAELATIKA
I go by the name Haelatika.
SANNARO
Thank you, Haelatika. Now, you’re saying this statue is not wrong yet the other statues are also not wrong.
HAELATIKA
An enigma, it seems there is more for you to discover, Tsikakayu Sannaro.
Sannaro glanced at the statue, then looked back and no one was on the ridge.
SANNARO (PSI V.O.)
Haelatika?
He stared at the monument for several more minutes before he walked down the ridge to return to the hover car.
Sannaro stopped the car outside the Governor’s building and walked through the halls to his uncle’s office.
END ACT 1
ACT 2
Devasru opened the door just as he arrived.
Sannaro rushed in.
SANNARO
Close the door.
Devasru looked puzzled but made the door close.
DEVASRU
Okay, you rush through my door, talking, no less, and demand I close the door before the auto close?
Sannaro nervously glanced out the window.
DEVASRU
I know you can be a bit restless, but this is bad, even for you.
SANNARO
Do you know a non-mutated New Saili named Haelatika?
SANNARO
Do you know a non-mutated New Saili named Haelatika?
DEVASRU
Haelatika? Did you say, Haelatika?
SANNARO
That’s what I said! Is there a non-mutated New Saili by that name?
DEVASRU
No, but-
SANNARO
But what?
DEVASRU
Sannaro, I know you’ve been through some very stressful situations in the near past-
SANNARO
I need to know is there a non-mutant New Saili named Haelatika! Why is that so skisla hard to answer?
DEVASRU
And why are you unusually forceful with your paternal uncle?
Sannaro bit his lip and wiped his brow before he swept his hair behind his ears again.
SANNARO
I saw something confusing.
DEVASRU
Well, I’m sorry to have to compound your confusion, but there’s only one Saili named Haelatika.
SANNARO
Is she here? Can I talk to her?
DEVASRU
That would be a bit complicated. She’s the Tsikanaya.
SANNARO
Skisla dai? Why is she The Great Healer?
DEVASRU
Because she’s the consort to the Great Forger. You really should read more into Saili legends.
SANNARO
So, why was she on a mountainside near a rachi weird monument of the Tsikakayu but the statue was of an angular crystalline humanoid instead of looking like me? I told her it was wrong and she answered why is it wrong? I told her about the other statues and she said they weren’t wrong either. What the fausa does that mean?
DEVASRU
Why, indeed.
SANNARO
Now what?
DEVASRU
We research.
EXT. TSIKAKAYU STATUE, NEW SAILIA MOUNTAINS - DAY
Ilanit, a female made of angular crystal with a rainbow of colors around her hovered above the strange statue until the soft shells left. She grasped a light beam that went downward and landed on the ground near the monument. She glided over to the base of the carved rock and looked up.
ILANIT (PSI V.O.)
Nikklo? Where are you and why are you formed as a statue here?
She looked down at the base.
She sighed as she grasped a light beam that reflected off the ground and rose into the sky again.
INT. PRISM SHIP - SPACE
After many jumps to different light beams, she landed inside the prism ship and traveled as quickly as she could to her room of darkness.
Before she came to her room, she saw a blur of light in front of her and Ezron blocked her way.
She let go of the light beam and landed on the deck.
EZRON (PSI V.O.)
I sensed you became excited, Ilanit. What did you see on this scouting mission?
ILANIT (PSI V.O.)
Nothing, it was a false alarm.
EZRON (PSI V.O.)
Your aura just shifted to darker colors. What are you hiding from me?
ILANIT (PSI V.O.)
Nothing, as I said, it was a false alarm.
A shaft of concentrated light shot from Ezron’s finger and impaled Ilanit’s right shoulder.
Ilanit gasped and went rigid against the wall.
EZRON (PSI V.O.)
Now, do you have anything to report to me, scout?
ILANIT (PSI V.O.)
Your actions pain me.
EZRON (PSI V.O.)
I won’t impale your core, you’re too valuable to lose, however, I can cause you pain.
Each of his fingers channeled a shaft of light through her shoulder.
EZRON (PSI V.O.)
Where did you go?
ILANIT (PSI V.O.)
The world the soft shells named New Sailia. I was curious about the odd metal colored soft shells.
EZRON (PSI V.O.)
I can see why you were curious about them. They do stand out among the dull colored soft shells. What did you find?
Ilanit tried to keep her aura from darkening further but she knew she felt too much emotion to keep it light.
Ezron held up his other hand and impaled her other shoulder with five more beams of concentrated light.
Ilanit arched her neck and shuttered. She tried to will her mind to remain blank but found herself remembering the strange statue on the hill.
FLASHING IMAGE OF THE TSIKAKAYU STATUE ON NEW SAILIA
BACK TO PRISM SHIP
Ezron’s aura danced around him in excitement.
EZRON (PSI V.O.)
I can see why you found that fascinating. Yes, is that where Nikklo has hid all these centuries? You did well. We will investigate that further.
The concentrated light dispersed.
Ilanit slumped against the wall until the pain receded.
EZRON (PSI V.O.)
You may slink back into your darkness, daughter.
Ezron blurred and disappeared.
INT. ILANIT'S DARK ROOM
Ilanit phased to her room and huddled into a corner. The rainbow around her became dark shades that are dull and bleak.
INT. COMMUNICATION CENTER, TAUIAN PRISM SHIP
Ezron traveled to the communications center and stopped at a device with a clear half sphere helmet that he placed on his head.
EZRON (PSI V.O.)
Beken.
BEKEN (PSI V.O.)
I hear you, Ezron. What do you have to report?
EZRON (PSI V.O.)
Ilanit found a planet in this sector that is named New Sailia. She found a monument that looked very much like Nikklo – there’s a strange word at the base that said Tsikakayu. We don’t know what that means at present.
BEKEN (PSI V.O.)
It sounds intriguing. You must investigate this further. I must know if Nikklo has finally resurfaced. Inform me when you have more to impart.
EZRON (PSI V.O.)
I will do as you say, my leader.
Ezron took the helmet off.
EZRON (PSI V.O.)
Ferex, go to New Sailia and disguise yourself as one of them. I want you to find out about a New Saili known as Tsikakayu. Report only to me what you find.
FEREX (PSI V.O.)
I will do as you say, Ezron.
The mental presence of Ferex faded from Ezron’s senses.
(LATER)
Ezron saw a blur before him and looked that way.
Ferex stood before him.
EZRON (PSI V.O.)
It took you long enough. What did you find?
FEREX (PSI V.O.)
The New Saili are very cautious with those they don’t know. Their separation with the original world of Sailia was recent enough for them to be defensive.
EZRON (PSI V.O.)
Does this have to do with the Saili with the name Tsikakayu?
FEREX (PSI V.O.)
Very much.
EZRON (PSI V.O.)
Then go on.
FEREX (PSI V.O.)
Tsikakayu is a title name that means Great Defender.
EZRON (PSI V.O.)
So why are they defensive about this Tsikakayu?
FEREX (PSI V.O.)
He began a war that tore the Saili into two factions. They warred until he forced negotiations. The Saili who supported the Tsiakuba, or Grand Elder, stayed on Sailia and the Tsikakayu was banished and took his followers to a new planet they named New Sailia.
EZRON (PSI V.O.)
Another revolutionary? That sounds like something Nikklo would do.
FEREX (PSI V.O.)
His followers were so dedicated to him, they made statues of him but the one Ilanit found was different from the rest. The others have black hair and gold skin but the face and body is the same.
EZRON (PSI V.O.)
So who is associated with this title?
FEREX (PSI V.O.)
A mutated member of the gold tribe who is a bit of an anomaly, he’s an adopted member of a wandering humanoid nation called the Astrisi. He’s known to be quite aggressive and wildly independent.
EZRON (PSI V.O.)
If I didn’t know you were talking about a soft-shell, I’d think you were talking about Nikklo!
FEREX (PSI V.O.)
There’s a legend that says, the Tsikakayu will be a child of the lost ones who reveals himself in time of need to save the Saili from extinction. They believe this adopted orphan Astrisi named Sannaro is that Tsikakayu.
EZRON (PSI V.O.)
Have you seen images of this Sannaro?
FEREX (PSI V.O.)
His image is in many places. It seems he’s considered quite a hero on New Sailia.
FLASHED IMAGE OF SANNARO
BACK TO TAUIAN PRISM SHIP
Ezron felt his aura dance around him.
EZRON (PSI V.O.)
The face is the same! Take away the black hair and turn the gold skin to crystal and this humanoid would look just like Nikklo! Where are these Astrisi?
Ferex’s aura darkened.
FEREX (PSI V.O.)
They have many ships that wander the darkness.
Ezron darkened his aura in annoyance.
FEREX (PSI V.O.)
However, I learned which ship Sannaro travels with, it has the name Kumani.
Ezron stood back and felt his aura electrify around him.
EZRON (PSI V.O.)
You did well, Ferex. I want you to return to New Sailia and learn where to find this Kumani.
Ferex bowed.
FEREX (PSI V.O.)
I serve to please you, master.
Ferex’s image blurred.
A blur streaked before him and Ferex reappeared.
EZRON (PSI V.O.)
That was refreshingly quick.
FEREX (PSI V.O.)
I have simple coordinates for the Kumani. We can link our tracking systems to the soft shell’s crude machines and receive updates on its’ location.
EZRON (PSI V.O.)
Work with the trackers to make the link. I want to travel soon.
FEREX (PSI V.O.)
It will be done, master.
Ferex disappeared.
FEREX (PSI V.O.)
The link is complete and we are receiving information on the location of the Kumani.
Ezron grabbed a light beam and flew to the concentration center.
EZRON (PSI V.O.)
Prism ship astral phase team, prepare for astral phase. I will do all beam jumps.
PHASING TEAM (PSI V.O.)
We obey, master.
As soon as Ezron sensed his team was connected, he reached out for a light beam and pulled the prism ship with him.
The light within the ship danced with dazzling multicolor but Ezron ignored them. He adjusted course to retain their travel toward the Astrisi ship. He released the light beam and returned the prism ship to hover, then broke his concentration. The metal ship was a rather dull white arrowhead shape, longer than tall. The only interesting thing that stood out was the bright red flaming bird symbol on top and bottom. Inside the flaming bird was another symbol of a blue four-pointed star with a yellow star in counterpoint. Inside the star was four green diamonds capped with red chevrons.
FEREX (PSI V.O.)
If I may be so bold, master-
EZRON (PSI V.O.)
You may continue.
FEREX (PSI V.O.)
I learned some things about the Astrisi from the Saili. They’re very fierce and independent. They rarely land, however, they have a business that they offer to ship cargo for those who live on planets because they have an unrivaled defense force and cargo is almost never lost. That ship is always in the darkness unless they take massive damage that breaks their containment because they’re dependent on the oxygen gas to survive.
EZRON (PSI V.O.)
What will they do if we break their containment?
FEREX (PSI V.O.)
They own a planet in this region that they go to if they must land to make repairs. They only occupy that planet when they have reason.
EZRON (PSI V.O.)
Impressive knowledge, Ferex.
FEREX (PSI V.O.)
I serve to please, my master.
EZRON (PSI V.O.)
And please me, you have. I will consider your advice. You are dismissed.
Ferex blurred and disappeared.
Ezron scanned the ship and stopped on an interesting conversation.
INT. UPPER FLIGHT DECK, KUMANI
Arcas pushed his helmet into his locker and slammed it closed.
ARCAS
Damn it!
NOKI
What’s got you heated, Arc?
ARCAS
I thought Hadah was going to keep San as the Senior Vizha’e only until Hadeon was defeated. It’s been months and I haven’t heard shit from Hadah about any reorganization.
NOKI
Did the little shit vape you again in sim?
Arcas glared.
NOKI
Thought so.
ARCAS
You’re an ass, you know that, Noki?
NOKI
You know how I feel about that slag. He’s got everyone by the dick and they like it! Sometimes I think you even like it.
ARCAS
Well, you’re wrong about that.
Arcas stomped away.
Noki chuckled and followed.
NOKI
What, he’s not giving you blow-jobs too?
ARCAS
Shut up, Noki.
NOKI
That guy will go to bed with anyone who’s willing to touch that glaring yellow skin of his, female or male. We once had standards in the Astrisi, only parings that generate children, but everyone turns a blind eye to that little slag banging anyone just because he’s so damned good in the cockpit.
ARCAS
Look, San is a great guy even though he’s a bit sexually overactive, but he took my sash away and that gets me a bit angry, that’s all. I just want my sash back.
Arcas left the ready room.and walked across the deck to his fighter to do a systems check for errors. He climbed into the double cockpit and turned on the display board.
EZRON (PSI V.O.)
Arcas.
ARCAS (PSI V.O.)
Who? I know you’re a telepath, but I’ve never heard your voice before.
EZRON (PSI V.O.)
You haven’t heard me before but I know what you want. What if I could assure you I can get Sannaro’s sash taken from him?
ARCAS (PSI V.O.)
Really? Why would you promise that?
EZRON (PSI V.O.)
Because he’s a wanted criminal from my world.
ARCAS (PSI V.O.)
Sailia? He’s been exonerated on Sailia of all wrong-doing.
EZRON (PSI V.O.)
So you still think he’s from Sailia? There’s much more to him than anyone knows about. He has an unknown past where he committed a horrendous crime. I want to see him punished.
ARCAS (PSI V.O.)
He’s always rebelling against someone. What did he do?
EZRON (PSI V.O.)
He destroyed a whole world and left the survivors homeless.
ARCAS (PSI V.O.)
You have got to be kidding!
EZRON (PSI V.O.)
I am very serious.
ARCAS (PSI V.O.)
And he got away and hid? How did he do that? He was born on Regalis to a Saili miner and a schoolteacher.
EZRON (PSI V.O.)
He can change his shape and hide anywhere.
ARCAS (PSI V.O.)
Ikata fausa, you’re right! He can change shape! He’s done it many times and sometimes right in front of me.
EZRON (PSI V.O.)
Now do you believe me?
ARCAS (PSI V.O.)
But Varanani, San’s sister says she saw him born.
EZRON (PSI V.O.)
He destroyed a whole world! Do you think he wouldn’t be above killing the infant and disguising himself as that infant to take the boy’s place?
ARCAS (PSI V.O.)
Not Sannaro, I’ve known him for over forty years!
EZRON (PSI V.O.)
How well do you know him?
ARCAS (PSI V.O.)
He did sneak all over the ship to kill Arlington when he took over the Kumani. No one’s ever been able to find him no matter how much they tried.
EZRON (PSI V.O.)
Noki said, he’s a sexual deviant. He doesn’t really conform to any culture, now does he?
ARCAS (PSI V.O.)
Well, he is quite stubborn.
EZRON (PSI V.O.)
Yes, he is quite stubborn. Why wouldn’t he be, when he’s a fugitive who has been hunted for hundreds of years? Isn’t it convenient that he decided to stay with your people for protection because you have a great defense force?
ARCAS (PSI V.O.)
He stayed with us to protect himself from Dr. Verano.
EZRON (PSI V.O.)
Do you believe that Dr. Verano is the only person he’s hidden from?
ARCAS (PSI V.O.)
You have a good point there.
EZRON (PSI V.O.)
Indeed, so can you tell me how to ground your ship so Sannaro’s protection can be weakened and I can capture him easier?
ARCAS (PSI V.O.)
That would kill some people!
EZRON (PSI V.O.)
You’re harboring the destroyer of a whole world. I assure you, he’s killed a whole lot more than a small explosion on your ship would kill.
ARCAS (PSI V.O.)
Well, if you caused a small explosion that reached just deep enough to damage the gravity drum, I think Hadah would decide to land for repairs.
EZRON (PSI V.O.)
What part of the shell of the ship would be the thinnest and closest to the gravity drum?
ARCAS (PSI V.O.)
Between the Upper Retrieval Deck and the lateral wing on either side. Slant the impact from above just beyond the wing.
EZRON (PSI V.O.)
Thank you for your valuable information, Arcas. Sannaro will soon be gone and you will have the coveted sash back.
Ezron withdrew from Arcas’ mind.
END ACT 2
ACT 3
INT. TAUIAN PRISM SHIP
EZRON (PSI V.O.)
That conversation was very helpful. Target a beam of concentrated light on the shell of the ship slightly above the wing.
TAUIAN #1 (PSI V.O.)
It will be done, Ezron.
The concentrated light lanced through the wall of the prism and bridged the darkness to the Kumani.
EZRON (PSI V.O.)
Cut the beam as soon as it triggers an explosion.
The white shell blistered at the impact point just before a hole expanded.
The ship shuddered then listed at an angle.
EZRON (PSI V.O.)
Break the beam.
TAUIAN #1 (PSI V.O.)
Done.
EZRON (PSI V.O.)
Now we follow the Kumani silently and observe where it goes.
Int. SANNARO'S OFFICE, KUMANI
Sannaro held his helmet in one hand and tapped it with his other hand in irritation as he walked back to his office from the simulators. He put away his helmet and sat down to write his evaluation on Arcas’ simulator.
Sannaro laid his hands on his computer’s keyboard just as the ship lurched to starboard. He struck his chest on his desk and grabbed the corners to steady himself. Klaxons blared but it wasn’t the tone for an attack.
SANNARO
What the fausa?
Sannaro gasped as he rubbed his sore chest and sprang from his chair. He ran down the stairs two at a time and rushed out onto the flight line. Many pilots and engineers were standing in shock and looking around.
SANNARO (PSI V.O.)
Hadah, are we under attack?
HADAH (PSI V.O.)
Not seeing anything on scope. There’s an explosion, though. I’ll contact you when I know more.
SANNARO
Sound first alert! Standby teams, prepare to deploy!
ARCAS
Houk! You heard him! What the fausa is happening?
SANNARO
Hadah said there’s an explosion but nothing is showing on scope. I don’t know any more.
Sannaro backed up to the lounge wall and Arcas followed.
The first six Vizha’i interceptors were pulled from their parking spaces and the pulleys below the floor dragged them to the elevators. The first three ships came to rest on the rectangle.
COMPUTER (V.O.)
Warning: Hydraulic lift engaged.
The rectangle began to rise off the floor on two metal pillars. An equally huge door parted in the ceiling as the rectangle came closer and then it locked into the hole in the ceiling.
Sannaro heard the clangs of the Vizha’i as they locked into the catapult above them.
END ACT 2
ACT 3
METEI
First alert level complete, San.
SANNARO
Houk, stand by for further orders.
METEI
Houk, standing by.
ARCAS
Hey, boss, you realize you have a shell of blood staining your flight suit chest panel?
Sannaro looked down and saw the green stain.
SANNARO
My chest struck the edge of my desk. I was too busy with the crisis to look. It should be okay for now though Danu isn’t going to like having to dissolve the fabric with the gold metal shell to get to the wound.
ARCAS
Just change forms.
SANNARO
What the fausa you’re meaning?
ARCAS
Forget it.
Arcas walked away.
METEI
What’s under his skin?
SANNARO
I don’t know, just that he was distracted in sim, today.
METEI
Rachi.
SANNARO
Houk, rachi.
METEI
Hey, why don’t you go sit down and I’ll watch the deck. That wound on your chest looks painful.
Sannaro took a deep breath, winced and pressed a hand to his chest.
SANNARO
Owe, damn, a broken rib and we just dropped off Jeremy at New Sailia.
METEI
Where’s the son-in-law when you need him, San?
SANNARO
Houk, just when I need him, he moved.
He went back upstairs and sat at his desk to write the evaluation but shortly after, he leaned back in his chair and stared at the ceiling. His broken rib was throbbing enough to distract him but he was reluctant to leave the flight deck during an alert with Arcas in a foul mood.
Sannaro felt his weight lighten and he floated off his chair. He drifted himself horizontal and held up his hands to stop himself from bumping into the ceiling he’d just stared at.
SANNARO (PSI V.O.)
Hadah, Upper Flight Deck has lost gravity.
HADAH (PSI V.O.)
I’m aware of that! Kasai, gravity drum is damaged and there’s a hole in the skin of the ship.
SANNARO (PSI V.O.)
How did that happen?
HADAH (PSI V.O)
Hell, I don’t know. Are you on alert?
SANNARO (PSI V.O.)
Houk, I called first stage alert.
HADAH (PSI V.O.)
Maintain it for now. For love of Iachi’awei, we’re going to have to limp to Gasbaja on impulse engines. I don’t dare go faster or we’ll squash ourselves on the aft wall!
SANNARO (PSI V.O.)
I have to run a flight deck with no gravity?
HADAH (PSI V.O.)
I don’t envy you, San. Do your best. I’m feeling pain from you. Are you injured?
SANNARO (PSI V.O.)
Houk, the explosion pushed me into my desk and broke a rib. I’m staying here for now, since Arcas is snapping at everyone.
HADAH (PSI V.O.)
Ikata not good, can you have your chest bound up and keep going?
SANNARO (PSI V.O.)
I think so.
HADAH (PSI V.O.)
Last as long as you can, my friend.
Sannaro heard banging and looked up.
The door swept open and Danu floated into the room with his medical kit slung around his chest.
DANU
Metei called me. Oh, that looks nasty. Good thing I brought Cerlacticine.
SANNARO
I wouldn’t worry about the blood for now. Can you bind my chest and give me something for the pain? We’re still on alert right now.
DANU
Sorry, I want to heal that fully.
Danu raised the pack to the ceiling and opened it. He grabbed a pair of aluminum plated woven silicone gloves and pulled them on.
DANU
Brace your back to the ceiling. You’re going to have to help me.
He pulled out a clear glass bottle and a sponge.
Sannaro adjusted his position.
SANNARO
If the situation was different, I think I would enjoy this.
DANU
It is quite interesting, but I don’t really enjoy zero-g all that much. I was in the elevator when the grav drum was shut down.
SANNARO
Lucky you.
Danu put the sponge over the neck of the bottle then pulled back the slide lid. When the sponge was saturated, he closed the bottle, returned it to his bag and sealed it.
Danu braced himself against Sannaro’s waist with his legs and scrubbed the stain on Sannaro’s chest. When it was saturated, Danu stretched the neck of Sannaro’s flight suit beyond his shoulders and pulled it down to his waist. Danu pulled out the bottle, saturated another sponge and scrubbed Sannaro’s bare chest. He pulled out a sensor and hummed it over Sannaro’s chest for a minute.
DANU
Good, no internal damage, just the broken rib. Brace yourself. I’m resetting the bone.
Sannaro readied himself.
Danu ran his hand along the gaping wound to find the bone, wrapped his legs around Sannaro’s hips, braced himself and shifted the rib.
Sannaro screamed and bit his hand. He resisted the urge to bat away the tears that floated around his face because he didn’t want to complicate Danu’s job.
DANU
Sorry about that.
Danu brought out the hand-held dermal regenerator and shined it on the wound.
DANU (cont.)
Almost done, brother.
A few minutes more, Danu clicked the device off.
DANU (cont.)
Hadah told me to completely heal any Vizha’e as essential crew.
Danu pulled out a syringe, pushed it into Sannaro’s neck and triggered the release.
Sannaro sighed as the pain began to recede.
DANU
That’s all I can do for now. I have more patients to visit.
SANNARO
Later, brother.
DANU
Later. Try to rest as much as you can.
Danu stuffed the used sponges into a metal zippered bag then pulled the gloves off, folded them into the bag and zipped it closed. He stuffed the metallic bag into his satchel. Danu floated out the door and the door closed behind him.
Sannaro launched himself off the ceiling to his locker and grabbed the handle to stop himself. He opened the door and braced his knees on either side of the door.
He unstrapped, pulled off his air tank and hooked it in his locker. Next, he untied his sash, draped it on his lower teeth and bit down to hold it. He released the clip on his pistol belt and hug it on a hook in his locker.
He grabbed the locker door with one hand then pulled his boots off. He stuffed them in the locker then pulled the suit off his legs. He crumpled the suit and pushed it in the locker, too. He pulled out a new flight suit, closed the locker and allowed himself to drift back to the ceiling.
As he pressed his back to the ceiling, he changed into a new flight suit.
He pushed back to the locker, pulled on his boots, locked his pistol belt and air tank around him again, clipped his helmet to his pistol belt then finished with tying his sash around his waist.
SANNARO (PSI V.O.)
Hadah, when are we heading out?
HADAH (PSI V.O.)
After Danu reports to me that all the severely wounded have been contained. I don’t dare move us until everyone can be in a safe place for acceleration.
SANNARO (PSI V.O.)
I can’t argue with that.
HADAH (PSI V.O.)
Good, I’m swamped here. We’ll have to talk later.
SANNARO (PSI V.O.)
Houk.
HADAH (PSI V.O.)
Hey, San.
SANNARO (PSI V.O.)
Thought you were swamped?
HADAH (PSI V.O.)
I had a thought. I want all Vizha’i flying escort around the Kumani when we fly for added protection since we’re going to have to watch a lot of gauges to make sure we don’t kill ourselves en route.
SANNARO (PSI V.O.)
Good idea, I’ll work on the logistics until you call for us to deploy.
HADAH (PSI V.O.)
Did you get your ribs bound?
SANNARO (PSI V.O.)
Danu just left. He healed me completely.
HADAH (PSI V.O.)
Damn, that’s one talented physician. Glad to hear it. I’ll call you again when we’re preparing to head out.
SANNARO (PSI V.O.)
Houk.
HADAH (PSI V.O.)
Get with Kosi, too. I want him to fly all non-essential personnel in shuttles beside the Kumani.
SANNARO (PSI V.O.)
This plan is getting complicated.
HADAH (PSI V.O.)
If we don’t get into gravity within a week, we’re all going to get soft bones. I don’t want us to have that kind of decay, especially the young children. Wait, a call is coming in. Talk to you later.
Sannaro pushed himself toward the door.
The door swept open and he drifted into the hall.
He used the sloping ceiling to guide himself down the stairs to the pilot’s lounge and used the banister to push himself toward the door to the flight line.
The door swept open and he drifted out.
He floated up to the ceiling two stories above the deck.
METEI
You’re looking better.
SANNARO
Hadah is calling for an evacuation of non-essential personnel into shuttles.
METEI
Whoa, that’s going to be a big job.
SANNARO
I know.
SANNARO (PSI V.O.)
Kosi, Hadah has told me he wants a full evacuation of all non-essential personnel to launch in the shuttles.
KOSI
We’re going to have to change a whole lot of shuttle pods without gravity?
SANNARO
Houk, Metei’s been told and he’s already coordinating the plan. We’ll need all shuttle pilots to fly passengers.
KOSI
I’ll get on it.
METEI
This isn’t going to be easy, San. Some shuttles have to have their pods changed to passenger pods.
SANNARO
That’s what Kosi just told me.
METEI
That telepathy sure can come in handy when we need to coordinate people quickly.
Sannaro smirked and nodded.
HADAH (PSI V.O.)
San, great news – New Sailia has been alerted to our situation and are offering ships to come move people to Gasbaja and give the Kumani a tow.
SANNARO (PSI V.O.)
That is great news.
SANNARO
Metei, our job just got easier. New Sailia is sending help.
METEI
That is great news. You're better than a com-board.
SANNARO (PSI V.O.)
Kosi, New Sailia is sending help for the evacuation.
KOSI (PSI V.O.)
Wonderful.
SANNARO (PSI V.O.)
I have to thank New Sailia profusely for their aide, Hadah.
HADAH (PSI V.O.)
I’ll be by your side thanking them too, buddy. You still have a lot of work to do to coordinate the evacuation with Kosi so I’ll let you get to it.
SANNARO (PSI V.O.)
Later, Hadah.
HADAH (PSI V.O.)
Later, San.
CHERNA (PSI V.O.)
San?
SANNARO (PSI V.O.)
Houk, lover?
CHERNA (PSI V.O.)
I’m sure you’re insanely busy.
SANNARO (PSI V.O.)
We are in crisis. Vara?
VARANANI (PSI V.O.)
Houk.
SANNARO (PSI V.O.)
Cherna’s feeling extra clumsy in zero-g without legs. Can you help her get ready for the evacuation?
VARANANI (PSI V.O.)
Of course. I’ll be with her soon.
SANNARO (PSI V.O.)
Fa’arata, sis.
KOSI
Done with all your messages?
Sannaro startled and bumped his head on the ceiling.
SANNARO
Kosi, you got here quickly.
KOSI
With all the chatter in your head, you can get a bit distracted.
Sannaro felt his face heat up in a blush.
KOSI
Hah, you can’t flip your hair into your face this time with it floating around your head.
SANNARO
If we weren't floating in zero-g, I'd smack you.
METEI
Way to set off the self-defense senior! I'll enjoy seeing you get ground into the mat later, Kosi.
KOSI
Should be fun!
SANNARO
You'll get it later, Kosi. Metei, get the standby team launched. Let’s set up cover so we can get these shuttles launched.
METEI
Houk, San.
SANNARO
Now, Kosi, how many shuttles do you need pod changes?
KOSI
I think, about six or seven.
SANNARO
Okay, you get them lined up at the crane. Metei, do you think your crew can manage to safely change those shuttle pods?
METEI
If we’re careful, I think we can pull it off.
SANNARO
Okay, get your crews working on that. I’m going to join my Vizha’e to provide cover.
Sannaro released his helmet from his side and locked it onto his head. He balled himself to rotate toward the floor and pushed off the ceiling. Once he was in reach of his interceptor, he grabbed the rhomboid vertical tail to stop his forward movement then carefully turned himself. He pushed off the tail, grabbed the edge of his raised canopy and pulled himself into his seat. After several minutes of fumbling with the harness, he locked himself in, pressed the button to lower his canopy and waited for it to lock.
SANNARO
Red One locked and ready for mag-pull.
FLIGHT CONTROL (V.O.)
Houk, Red One, stand by.
SANNARO
Standing by.
FLIGHT CONTROL (V.O.)
Red One, engaging mag-pull to elevator.
SANNARO
Houk.
He watched as his interceptor slowly moved to the elevator and was raised to the catapults.
The cat crew was unusually slow at inspecting the catapult locks because of the magnetic boots they wore but several minutes later they called all systems green and pulled back to their blast room.
Sannaro watched the colored lights above the launch tube for red to turn green. As soon
as he accelerated through the tube, he added his thrusters and shot into space above the nose of the Kumani. He turned to join the other interceptors.
ARCAS (V.O.)
San, we have a protective perimeter around the Kumani.
SANNARO
Good, let’s settle in and keep an eye on all approaches. New Sailia is sending ships to fly everyone to Gasbaja and give Kumani a tow.
BATU
What happened?
SANNARO
Don’t know right now. Hadah said it was sudden yet the scope was empty.
KOSI (V.O.)
Shuttle One to Red One.
SANNARO
Houk, Shuttle One.
KOSI (V.O.)
We’re moving out the first evac shuttle.
SANNARO
Houk, keep inside Vizha’i guard perimeter.
KOSI (V.O.)
Will do.
TISA (V.O.)
How long will we have to wait for New Sailia?
SANNARO
For as long as it takes for them to fly to us.
KOSI
I see something.
SANNARO
Hadah? We’re seeing a ship approach.
HADAH (V.O.)
Relax, it’s the New Saili ships.
TISA (V.O.)
Thank Iachi’awei.
HADAH (V.O.)
Thank San’s people. They offered the help.
SAILI COMSPEC (PSI V.O.)
Tsikakayu, we are from New Sailia. We are here to offer aide to the Kumani to take on evacuees and tow the Kumani to safety.
Sannaro sent his mental signature.
SANNARO (PSI V.O.)
This is Tsikakayu Sannaro. On behalf of Hadah, Commander of the Kumani, we gratefully accept your aide.
Sannaro suddenly felt a sinking feeling that he’d just become targeted. He took a deep shuddering breath before he brought his attention back to the approaching spaceships.
SAILI COMSPEC (PSI V.O.)
We were picking up supplies at Belvas when we received your distress call. The Astrisi helped us to find our planet after we were banished from Sailia. We’re just reciprocating.
SANNARO (PSI V.O.)
Thank you.
SAILI COMSPEC (PSI V.O.)
We will now make vocal connection.
SANNARO (PSI V.O.)
Hadah, I felt something.
HADAH (PSI V.O.)
Wait, I’m talking to the Saili.
SANNARO (PSI V.O.)
Houk.
He looked around space and scanned with his telepathy. He watched the shuttles fly toward the New Saili ship and was glad to see them reach safety, though he couldn’t shake the unease he felt, not for them, but for himself.
FADE OUT.
THE END.