Teria drummed her hand against the ivy-covered stone wall. Glancing at the oak tree where her sister and Mikaen were talking in low tones, she asked, “So, did Jek say anything about what time he’d get his scrawny elf ass here?”copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡLPmKxYrnlz
“He said to meet him by the oak tree in the Royal Garden at midnight.” Mikaen glanced up at the glowing limbs of the crystal chronoan tree. “Should be any minute now.”copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡkLLoTPHBq9
Jeronem snored softly, his face hidden beneath a rather tacky-looking pointed hat.copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5aH4Ft0UMH
Teria glanced at him for a moment before asking, “Mikaen, I like the little guy as much as anybody, but are you sure we should be bringing him with us? He’s just a kid, for Creator’s sake.”copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡzywVi4TKrf
“He’s technically an adult by vuestan law. Besides, he’d only follow us anyway.” Mikaen chuckled. “Kid’s got the instincts of a shadow. Trust me, he’ll come in handy when we reach Ronisgald.copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡjM05bUVSvl
“If you say so.”copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2BwJFbdF5Z
After a few more moments of silence, Teria snorted. “Jek …”copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡmFxTAQXuAp
Seeing Mikaen’s curious glance, she said, “Let’s just say he’s had a history of not showing.”copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡJTbKZmEUfa
“She used to date Jek.” Tirinia explained.copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡgiLM1qYf64
“It was one date!” Quickly lowering her voice, Teria said, “I went out with him once just to get him to shut up, and the punk didn’t even show up. Turns out he already had a date. Apparently, I was his backup plan.”copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡftJNmkDkOd
“Actually, the other date was arranged by my father.”copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡJy7Vi6iW1y
“That’s beside the-” Teria’s head whisked around to see Jek approaching, clad in his slamm gear and carrying a pack over his shoulder. He nodded to Mikaen and Tirinia as he drew near.copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6hQS4Sj37p
“Dad tried to set me up with one of Lady Catharine’s daughters. Pretty girl, but she was a complete air-head, and a rotten date.”copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7nTQagbOAZ
Teria glared at him. “Then why are you smiling?”copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1ky9gQgzNi
Jek coughed. “Er … I’m not smiling.”copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7UzYMEQ5HY
“Well then,” said Mikaen, hefting his gear, “Are we ready to go?”copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡuOloFwEQke
Jeronem popped up like a jack-in-the-box. “Ready and able! Oh, and by the way,” he poked a finger against Teria’s stomach. “I’m not a kid!”copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡQmzpvQfMp2
Teria put her hands up, saying, “My bad. I just don’t want Killer Katy after me because her precious little angel got hurt, that’s all.”copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4wWEuJilO0
Jeronem bristled, but didn’t say anything.copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡjiOFGubllw
“So,” Mikaen said, cutting in before his young friend could respond, “What’s the plan?”copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡAcS9BoZRap
“Follow me.” Without another word, Jek started down the garden path, heading straight for the base of the crystalline tree.copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡUfVQTqzcLo
“Uh, why are we going to the royal tower?” Teria asked, her hands on her hips.copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡc5H1KowWJS
“No time to explain. Come on!”copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡsj4ltGJtxU
Sighing, Teria muttered, “If this doesn’t work, I’m going to put you through some serious pain. You know that, right?”copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡSr9Oi3eSg0
“You’ll go on another date with me?”copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡgs5XuQl0N5
“Watch it, elf.”copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡSfoXBRDkkb
Jek led the group all the way to the front entrance of the crystalline tree. There were no guards, not surprising seeing as this was the center of Muonsol Palace.copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡfdCp1VsfOI
“Stop me if I’m wrong, but isn’t going through the Cygros’s tower an easy way to get us caught?” asked Teria. “No guards are one thing, but your father is in there.”copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡf4bl2FboGY
“Would you quit worrying about it already? I’ve got it covered.” Jek flashed a smile at her, a gesture which she did not return.copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡtzeSwPKaa4
As they crept through the silent halls, Teria expected the Cygros and half of his Celestial Knights to leap out from every corner.copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡlpiYOjUhyI
“We’re almost there,” Jek said after about ten minutes of slow progress.copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0ONb9QRkex
That was when Princess Meryl walked around the corner.copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡjI6yADolOy
Everyone froze … everyone except the young princess, that is. She walked past them, her eyes squinted almost shut as she dragged a large stuffed animal behind her.copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡqaYI8N135A
Once he was a sufficient distance away, Jek let out a sigh of relief. “Thank the Creator.”copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡL5ozhyp8TE
“What the hell was that?” Teria hissed at Jek, “I thought you had everything under control?”copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡGcmNKXq9ie
“Meryl sleepwalks sometimes, okay? Don’t worry, she won’t remember anything. Come on! We’re almost there.”copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡHIoGrxusBz
The group hurried through the hallways, eventually stopping at a large circular room with an armor-clad dummy resting squarely in the center.copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2nFrWWZm5S
Mikaen approached the armor, a smile stealing across his face. “Jyle’s gear from the Knights of the Star.”copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0M5nzQl0ZE
“Yep.” Jek removed the right gauntlet of the armor from the dummy and slipped it on over his own hand before sliding one of his slamm gauntlets back on the dummy’s arm.copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡfGnEnOcRgN
As he tightened the straps of Jyle’s gauntlet, Mikaen asked, “You know how to use that, right?”copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡrja7K74Kt9
Jek clenched his fist. His gauntlet reconfigured into a scoped energy weapon, then back to a gauntlet again. “Answer your question?”copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡCuVHRvxcvx
He approached the far wall of the chamber and placed his gauntlet-clad hand on a certain spot.copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡQLddpB1Bti
Almost immediately, the outline of a door appeared on the far wall.copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡoVCz2nH67a
“Shoulda figured Jyle would a have made a secret room somewhere.” Mikaen muttered, grinning.copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡfKFbswHZJd
“I caught him sneaking in here once when I was eight.” Jek explained, “At the time, I had no idea what the room was for. Naturally, I snuck in here at night while dad was away and had a look for myself.copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡwAYKNnmPYP
The moment Jek took a step into the hidden room, a flood of lights activated.copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8nLKXN7ETe
Teria let out a whistle. “Nice…”copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡP9Zulr02rK
Jyle’s hidden room looked to have been packed with more technology than the rest of the palace put together. Work tables were loaded with half-finished inventions and tools, computer panels were running diagnostics on a dozen different devices placed around the room.copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡfYkdI7B5Xz
Most impressive, however, were the seven chasers arranged in a semicircle in what looked to be an elevator.copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡV6XGQUtYzn
“Way to go, Jek!” said Teria as she hopped onto the nearest chaser. The vehicle activated immediately, hovering a foot off the ground.copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡdowcSRDTU4
“They’re called chasers.” Tirinia explained to Mikaen, who looked confused, “Single-person transports. We had one when we were kids until someone used it to run away from home.”copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡDa2XnL5YR3
Teria snorted. “I brought it back, didn’t I?”copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡyM9wt0rWZ0
Someone snorted. “Yeah, after you nearly got us both sacrificed to the demon.”copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡjdpQphI3bD
“Okay, first off, that was-” Teria stopped when she realized that it was One who had spoken.copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8PNbMbWSaO
Hopping off the table, One approached Mikaen. “They handle kinda like motorcycles back home, ‘cept chasers have a few different configurations you can use. Don’t worry, I’m sure Tirinia and I can walk you through it.”copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡWIA6f36G06
Jek blinked. “You’re coming with us?”copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡGkj5aJnTMz
“If it’s not a problem.” Despite the fact that he was speaking to Mikaen, Teria had the feeling that he was directing the question to her.copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡwVoj6bu33E
“Sounds cool.” she said, trying not to sound excited, “The more the merrier, right?”copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡR0nr6Dvdjw
Mikaen looked at One suspiciously. “Are you really going to help us, or are you going disappear when the going gets tough?”copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡj0QD60muU9
“Mikaen!” Tirinia admonished, but One held up a hand to stop her.copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3q4rJbDeeH
“It’s okay, Tirinia. It’s a valid question. Dreamers typically don’t get involved like this.” One walked back to where he had been sitting and picked up two devices that Teria recognized as Headache.copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡT5HhxNU30d
Sliding his hands into the weapons, he turned to face Mikaen, saying, “I may not be able to promise much as a Dreamer, but I can promise to aid you as a Builder of the Ranger’s Collective.”copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡzkepXkqkOk
A smile stealing across his face, Mikaen held out a hand, saying, “Welcome aboard, One.”copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡuSKykuJXJY
One shook his hand. “Thanks.”copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡEC3lTB8NE9
Glancing between the two of them, Jek said, “No disrespect to One or anything, but we really should get moving.”copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1dtfDrz3Mo
Nodding, Mikaen said, “Okay, everyone pick a chaser.”copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡogg9OAEyxn
One shouldered his backpack and chose the chaser next to Teria. Turning to Mikaen, he said, “Okay, quick chaser lesson. Grab the handles and push ‘em forward with your whole body until you’re lying on your stomach.”copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡxc0AxTcGHQ
As Mikaen leaned forward, the forward panel of the car extended over his back.copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡPJ4jYHLyLx
One continued, “Okay, speedometer’s on your right, status screen’s on your left, and that little circle on the top is your radar. The screen in front of your face is just the view ahead, but it’ll automatically compensate for a rise or drop in light. Night vision, sun shades … yadda, yadda, yadda.”copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡXaNdjCOYbm
“How can I communicate with the others?” Mikaen asked.copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡmIymj6gvMX
“There’s a small radio transmitter that stays on as long as the chaser’s in motion. We’ll check when we get moving, but I’m guessing we can just talk normally. Keep in mind that anything you say, the rest of us can hear.”copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡlCHqVF8HdT
“Okay,” said Jek as he leaned into his chaser. “Everyone get ready.”copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡeb32onFdmQ
Once everyone was safely integrated into their respective chasers, Jek said, “Opening hatch.”copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡzIz84Seko1
Jeronem’s mental voice squeaked, “Hatch? What do you mean ‘hatch’? I thought this was a lift!”copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡiKDZazFigT
The floor abruptly opened, revealing a gaping chasm. After a moment’s hesitation, each of the mounted cycles slid over the curved lip of the chasm.copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡcu4gxtEcG0
Despite the mental scream of terror from Jeronem, Teria enjoyed the rush of adrenaline as her chaser built up speed, easily passing the others.copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3gICoNuD7S
As the floor arched, the chasers fell into line: Teria in the front, followed by Tirinia, Mikaen, Jeronem, One, and Jek.copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡEqDhqNQ557
The tunnel ended abruptly, the concealed entrance lifting so the chasers could pass into the moonlit forest.copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡYhC2y9vclc
Teria’s on-board map screen blinked to life. “All right,” she said, turning her chaser, “Last one to Ronisgald buys dinner!”copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡcpsU1RHwvP
Mikaen picked up piloting the chaser fairly quickly. The others seemed to have no problem as the group sped from the Ircandesta Forest, gliding around the trees with ease.copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡp9g2rGPiLV
Jek led the way, making a point to hit every natural ramp with a loud whoop that pounded through the communications channel. Jeronem, Teria and One followed behind him, obviously enjoying themselves. Tirinia and Mikaen hung back a bit from the group.copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡpKd1NLbjXx
The group reached the edge of Ircandesta as the sun began to rise. The trees became few and far between as their path lead them through a series of deep, rolling hills.copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡv9WY4XPMtk
“There should be a town near here,” Jek told them, “Altier. Nice place, if a bit rural. I snuck there a few times after I first found dad’s secret room.”copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡBSuSUWyKek
“Ooh!” Jeronem glanced at Mikaen. “Can we check it out?”copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡFE4SGSERbB
“Probably a bad idea.” Mikaen replied. “We need to get as far as we can before Jyle realizes we’re gone.”copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡoGLkEPiuBM
“Hey, Jek?” Teria said, an unpleasant thought coming to mind, “You don’t suppose your father had some sort of recall or override security device on the chasers.”copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡPdEj5zgEkv
“He did.” One told her. “Nothing I couldn’t handle.”copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡYZ93SQWwI7
Teria grinned at him through her windshield. “Nice.”copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡ86OTrtIKXk
As the sun set, Mikaen noticed a town on the horizon. “That’s not Ronisgald, right?”copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡwMxb6DKnh4
One moved to Mikaen’s side. “Hang on, that’s Altier! A buddy of mine lives there! Hey, we should stop in and say hi.”copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡSg42kXSguA
“We’re on a time table, One.”copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡnCHcv9FeTD
“Yeah, like Ronisgald knows that.”copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡypq6AwKlU1
“Mikaen?” asked Tirinia, her voice sounding tired. “I could really use a break.”copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡqMivODsHTW
Sensing an opportunity, Teria chimed in, “Yeah, I’m getting a bit stiff too.”copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡihyZt499i2
“Me too.” said Jek. “How ‘bout you, little guy?”copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡMRscX3JHpD
After a moment of silence, Mikaen asked, “Jeronem?”copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡJPp2leFNVz
Jeronem had been lagging just behind the others for about an hour. Moving beside him, Mikaen glanced over only to discover that the young vuestan was sound asleep.copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡJeQiekmntF
One moved on Jeronem’s other side. “Jyle must’ve rigged an automatic autopilot. Nice. Kinda makes me wonder what he was doing with ‘em, though.”copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡqgwTsuWbcm
“Will he stop when we do?” Mikaen asked.copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡOWceYxsEko
One tried his best to shrug. “I think so. Only one way to find out.”copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡd4C4mRoJeS
As they neared the town, the group began to slow down. Jeronem’s chaser matched their speed and came to a stop just behind the rest.copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡpE8WxBquMD
Releasing his handles and sitting up, Mikaen stretched his back and wings, his joints popping loudly. A chorus of pops echoed around him as the rest of the group dismounted.copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡQBz3PyAhcV
“Ugh.” Teria groaned, climbing stiffly off her chaser, “I’m gonna be sore in the morning.”copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡGpZjumaT6o
“Well, look on the bright side; another run like that, and we’ll be there.” Jek said, hopping easily off his chaser.copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡMv3UsBvT6i
Mikaen walked over to Jeronem’s chaser, which had already released him from the restraints, and tapped him on the shoulder.copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡwXT60IEA0Q
Jeronem roused and sat up, rubbing his eyes. “Wha … we there yet?”copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡvGgv0KSaEY
“Not yet. We’re gonna stop for tonight.”copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡzquClWdRQk
“Oh.”copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9mh3thL7SM
As Mikaen helped Jeronem out of his chaser, Jek called out, “Heads up! Someone’s coming.”copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡXnteTtZLDD
Teria turned to see two people approaching, a little girl with blonde hair and a man who appeared to be in his early thirties. They both appeared to be Galden, but Teria had learned not to assume anything based on appearance.copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡKc4ePpb3g1
“It looks like we’ve got a few visitors.” The man looked at each member of the group. “Let’s see here: Jeronem Thistlethorn of Homestead, Jek Cressia of Muonsol, Sir Mikaen of the Knights of the Star …”copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡnqoEtRVfZN
He smiled when he came to Tirinia and Teria. “Tirinia and Teria Myssohn, though I doubt they’d remember me.”copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1Wbvb5YaQC
Tirinia and Teria both gave him a hug, Teria saying, “Of course we remember you, Uncle Alex.”copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡOBPSPEh1Iy
As they stepped back, Alex turned to One. “And if it isn’t Narrator Number One! Twice in as many months too. I’m guessing Ircandesta didn’t provide the escape from work you were expecting.”copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡ35YsJsjFHj
“You don’t know the half of it.” Grinning, One shook Alex’s hand before giving the little girl a hug. She squealed with delight as he lifted her from the ground and spun around with her in his firm grip before setting her lightly on her feet.copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡtJgFfrKdCB
“How is it you know who we are?” Mikaen asked.copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡQqcFj2kB42
“He’s a Dreamer too.” Teria said, recognizing the Anti-ka Maru only too well. “He put me and One up a few times back in the old days. Remember, One?”copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9778zRBTxj
“Er, not really.” One smiled apologetically at Alex. “Sorry, man.”copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡc03sGiUqww
“It's okay, One. I know the problems with storing memories better than most. In truth, I was curious why you didn’t recognize me when Teach introduced us, what ... four-hundred years ago?” Shaking his head, Alex turned back to Mikaen. “Ah, but I forget myself. My name is Alex Terabin, though I’m known at the Elsewhere as the Toymaker. This is my daughter, Maya.”copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2mXf2ghmRl
Maya was looking up at Tirinia. “You’re pretty.” She said shyly.copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡp1txa3pLWW
Tirinia knelt beside her, smiling. “I think you’re very pretty too.”copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡ49X7CDqw4W
Maya giggled and ran to her father. Within the span of a few short seconds, she had changed from a Galden into a tigreth.copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡ27jZmlgEI7
“She’s a shapeshifter.” Alex explained unnecessarily, rubbing his daughter’s blonde hair.copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡ088tFix44t
“Because you’re a Dreamer?” Mikaen asked.copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡ19DYhfCHLH
Alex laughed. “Unlike the shapeshifting talent, which Maya inherited from her grandmother, Dreamer abilities aren’t hereditary.”copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡEOOXObj4P1
“Emeryl still running the Merryweather Inn?” Teria asked, rubbing her neck. “We’re gonna need a few rooms for the night.”copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡcQakkPDRUI
“That’s not necessary. You and your friends are more than welcome to spend the night at my home.”copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡkVRYU8dxQZ
“We don’t want to intrude.” Mikaen said.copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡeuN3sBeLG4
Alex waved him off. “Why pay shards for a room at the Merryweather when you can stay at my place for free? We’ve got more than enough room. Besides, Lauren’s been cooking for hours. I know I’m not going to eat all that food.”copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡNSUXdeNR5H
“You knew we were coming?” Mikaen asked, surprised.copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡzqDroyzC5q
“She knew someone was coming, though she wasn’t sure who. She’s a good mystic, but I’m afraid she’s a bit out of practice. Come on! I’ll introduce you to her.”copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡBkUoon0D8G
He hoisted his daughter over his neck, and started walking through the city, the rest of the group following close behind.copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡHWyCTMRHDX
It was a nice town: simple, but full of life. The population was surprisingly diverse: Galden, tigreth, sourian, idestan … Teria even spotted a Cleftan chatting with a fional near an old well. The buildings were more like cottages, with wood-shingle roofs and simple but functional designs. There were a few streetlights, a sign that technology had not completely passed over the village, but that seemed the limit of the town’s tech.copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡocn2DMAdoG
“Altier’s been here since the time of the Calliban Crusades.” Alex told them as they walked through the town.” The original residents deserted his army, feeling that his campaign was madness.”copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡE01yoqVp34
“Yeah, I read about this place.” Jek said, waving cheerily at several passersby, “Musicians, painters, story makers … a town of dreamers.”copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5K0EnUqeB4
“Sleepers,” One corrected.copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡb0gz2UlD8K
“Whats the difference?” Teria asked curiously.copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡkMKml9MhyP
Maya recited, “A Sleeper is a dream-capable being who has a high probability of becoming a Dreamer.”copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡlEAmjXgKbR
“Very good, Maya.” Alex said, tickling his daughter.copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡOmS5VU0hy8
Giggling, the little girl quickly slipped from Alex’s grasp and landed with a cat’s grace beside Jeronem. As she stood straight, Mikaen noticed that Maya’s ears and tail were now distinctly vuestan, though she kept a tigreth’s fur coat. From the look on his face, Jeronem did not find this amusing.copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2SVNegW1yv
They eventually stopped in front of a grand house that seemed ancient, but well cared for.copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡQUaqgtoxez
“Victorian. I know it’s an old style and a bit out of place on Vinta, but I find it comforting.” Alex opened the door and gestured inside the house. “Make sure to wipe your feet on the mat. Lauren just cleaned the carpet, and she’s very particular about the state of the house.”copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡp2Wh8Sc89K
The inside of the house was just as comfortable as the outside. The furniture was a mismatched yet well-kept assortment of chairs, tables, and sofas.copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡhcCcZRtWT1
Teria and Tirinia wiped their feet on the mat and stepped inside. Jeronem and Mikaen instinctively removed their footwear. One and Jek glanced at them curiously a moment before doing the same.copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡsJWCac6zKl
Alex watched them all with a look of mild amusement. “Well, that’ll work too. Come on. I’ll introduce you to Lauren.”copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡ89n5qwXCE7
They followed Alex into what was obviously the kitchen. The cookware aside, the room was filled with a jumble of smells that made Mikaen’s stomach rumble.copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡnWj08jSCgL
Tirinia giggled at him. “Hungry, love?”copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡEJvAmGNtfx
Alex looked at them in surprise. “Oh, you two are a couple? Ah, engaged, I see. I didn’t know.”copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡOnGbt7HqKm
Mikaen blushed as he put his arm around Tirinia’s shoulder and pulled her close.copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡx8iR8rb03s
Alex shrugged and turned his gaze back to the kitchen. “Well, I thought Lauren was in here-”copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡLIbhixX60c
“DADDY!” Everyone turned as a boy no older than six ran into the room and hid behind Alex.copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡDOAk03sItc
Moments later, a teenage girl stomped into the kitchen, looking daggers at the boy. The boy huddled behind Alex’s legs, shouting “Alyssa burned me again!”copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡ51knTtP4tT
“He was looking at my diary!” She said, her hair literally fuming.copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡxfBIwUgt0g
“These are my other children. This,” Alex gave the boy a sharp rap on the head, “Is my son, Alundra. That’s Alyssa, who I’ve told hundreds of times to mind her manners when I have company.”copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡGE5gY6jqPN
Alyssa turned bright red. “I’m sorry, but he-”copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡDUOYiHr7MV
Alex held up a hand. “I’ll deal with him later. Uncle One is here, so I expect you to be on your best behavior.”copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0kaC2Hwibx
The boy stuck his tongue out at the girl before skipping over to Jeronem and staring at him like he was a strange animal in a zoo.copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡzRbF7aMrBB
Trying not to smile as Jeronem glared darkly at the young Alundra, Mikaen asked, “So your youngest is a shape shifter, your eldest is a fire witch. What’s your boy?”copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡeev2cNKEVx
“A pain in the-” Alyssa began, only to be silenced by a look from her father.copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡzVRKxUr4dD
A woman with long, gleaming white hair and kind eyes entered the room. She was so involved in cleaning a small porcaline ornament of what appeared to be an alcian-tribe sentient that she bumped into One.copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡBNuNtCXf3y
“Oh!”copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡQhNmk0a5E5
One deftly caught the ornament and handed it back to her, saying, “Hello, Lauren. Daydreaming as always, I see.”copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡDe1vYypqDD
“One!” She set the knickknack on a nearby shelf, continuing, “Thank you! I’ve been so clumsy lately.”copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3eqy2UaZ9d
Her gaze fell on Teria and Tirinia. Beaming, she brushed past One and gave them both a big hug.copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡy0vlmQlwV0
“Hi, Auntie Lauren.” Tirinia said, smiling.copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡCzeD4dcuDP
“I knew we haven’t been to Longshore in awhile, but I didn’t know it had been that long. Look at you two, all grown up!” Lauren stopped suddenly and looked from Tirinia to Mikaen. A broad smile spreading across her face, she continued, “Oh, I’m so happy for you, Tirinia! Your parents have wondered if you’d ever find someone!”copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7H4yf6sp6B
“Auntie!” said Tirinia, blushing.copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡDFB90YZmvV
With a mischievous smile, Mikaen gave her a big kiss on the cheek and hugged her close.copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡn7uBKyOW2s
“Mike!” Tirinia slapped his arm playfully, but didn’t pull away.copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡMa9QIoXaO4
Chuckling, Alex asked his wife, “How’s dinner coming along, honey?”copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡMsJoBJnB6S
“It’ll be done in at least an hour or two, given how many guests we have. Why not take some time to clean up a bit?”copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡwt015KAUHD
“If it’s okay,” Tirinia said, slipping from Mikaen’s arm, “I’d like to talk to Auntie Lauren for awhile.”copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡmuNvlvUiGI
“Of course. Alyssa, would you show everyone to the guest rooms?”copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡmta5SMPfnW
Alyssa rolled her eyes, and strode out of the side door. As most of the group followed, Alex stopped Teria and Mikaen, whispering, “Hang back a moment, if you don’t mind.”copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7Tp8VvTvpA
Teria’s ears twitched, but she said nothing. She wondered what it was that needed the two of them specifically.copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8L5VhqrcI8
“You need me for anything?” One asked.copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡV5B6btS0Jf
Alex shook his head. “I was going to give them a little briefing on Ronisgald. You’re more than welcome to stay, of course.”copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡXR9nZ4SSzh
“No thanks. I’ve had enough of work today.” One smacked Alundra playfully on the shoulder. “Come on, squirt. Let’s go play some video games.”copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡtH3yDlY4xH
As the two hurried upstairs, Alex chuckled. “Ah, my good friend One. Ever the child at heart.”copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡcsNOyYiqZ1
It was just Mikaen, Alex, and Teria now. Alex and Mikaen took armchairs while Teria stretched out on a couch.copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡGWSQjSUbKu
Coughing, Alex asked, “So, how has One been doing? Word in the Elsewhere is that you two are closer to him than anyone … well, aside from Luck. Besides, last time I heard from him, he was stopping a meteor from destroying Algos.”copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡtdcwMPRKUp
“He seems fine,” replied Mikaen. “though I’m a little surprised to have him actually traveling with us.”copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡs6RfVqddQc
“Yeah.” Teria added, “Especially after Teach blew up on him.”copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡfx98ns0iEK
“Excuse me?”copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡN7YZEKOwvJ
“After the Council, Narrator Number Two and some guy One called Teach showed up and started yelling at One. It was kinda scary.” Teria rubbed her arms, a slight chill running through her at the memory.copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡVXPNdLdrZ4
“Understandably so.” said Alex, looking unusually grave. “You don’t know how strange it is for Teach to act like that. Sure, he’s always liked to pretend he’s the leader, but I’ve never heard of him getting legitimately angry before.”copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡEfBNnZgohU
“What do you think it means?” Mikaen asked.copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡ95274GSTdn
Alex regarded Mikaen intently. “Honestly, I don’t know. Still, if Teach is that upset, I have to wonder if something much bigger than your life is on the line.”copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡC8lsVzd80d
Teria put a hand to her head. “You think it might have something to do with that dragon machine One found?”copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡcEsOsQNIe5
“I seriously doubt it, but it’s probably worth checking out. I’ll see if I can’t dig something up before you leave tomorrow.” Alex rose from his chair, shaking his head. “For the time being, allow me to show you to your rooms.”copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡDnaFvfln8y
As they started up the stairwell, Alex asked, “Will Tirinia be sleeping in the same room as you, Mikaen?”copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡLKH6dDFrMG
“We’re not married just yet.”copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡEYk6NNXAvb
Teria snorted. “Who do you think you’re fooling? You two’ve kept me up for the last three weeks with your ‘talking’.”copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡG8zRO46are
Alex laughed kindly as Mikaen’s cheeks went red. “There’s nothing wrong with that. As I recall, the wedding ceremony is just a formality in tigreth culture. Right, Teria?”copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡJdZqjc4ZDQ
“Yup.” Teria clapped a hand on Mikaen’s shoulder. “You two were mates the moment the bond formed, Mikaen … bro.”copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡFiO0pCNmdj
“Oh boy.” Mikaen replied in a deadpan tone, “I always wanted a sister.”copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡxTs6KgbQqD
Chuckling again, Alex opened the door for Mikaen, saying, “Well, if you do want separate rooms, just ask me after dinner, okay?”copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5aQ5A9hE9V
“Thanks, Alex.” Mikaen let out a yawn. “I think I might catch a nap in the meantime.”copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡuOdjPCWDY9
“I will let you know when dinner is ready.” Alex bowed his head respectfully as he closed the door.copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡWw2pDNFOE6
As he and Teria continued walking, he said, “You’ve been quite the topic in the Elsewhere as of late.”copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡrKghPRr7wA
“Huh?” Teria said, startled at the idea of being a point of interest for a bunch of Dreamers.copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡ21pglfThSS
“You and One had some history together. It’s not uncommon for Dreamers to find romance along with our usual trouble. I met my wife on an assignment, in fact. What has everyone confused is why he stored the memories of you away when he obviously still cares a great deal for you.”copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡqOote1hTPW
“He what?” She asked, her cheeks feeling warm.copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0hGhyv9ZCG
Alex smiled at her. “He was really torn when he remembered your past together. He’s liked Luck for ages, but everyone knows you two would’ve ended up together if your father hadn’t been so … well, anti-Galden.”copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡAFH0W2fPk7
“Oh. Well.” Grateful that her dark fur obscured her blush, she said, “Well, things probably turned out for the best. I mean, he doesn't even remember half of what we went through. Could be worse, I suppose. We're still friends, even after I decked him.”copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡHLW6ea8w4Y
Alex chuckled. “I heard about that. You know, that bar brawl you started is still going.”copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡs5f8nNEwNh
“Really?” Teria asked, unable to suppress the disbelief in her voice. “It's been months since our little spat.”copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡcoWUoSWEIh
“Well, it's not in the Bar anymore. A big brawl like that tends to move around. Fortunately, they seem to be sticking to the gray rooms at the moment.” Alex stopped and gestured to the door. “Ah, here we are. Go ahead and take a nap if you want. I’ll send one of the kids up to let you know when dinner’s ready.”copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡLp2IwhSENX
As she closed the door behind her. Her eyes darted around the room, taking note of small pieces of furniture, fragile knickknacks, and the like. With an annoyed grunt, she threw herself onto the bed.copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡCf2RopF2Ws
“Impressive show of self-restraint, Miss Myssohn.”copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡj8Rg2f8ZTQ
She was on her feet in an instant, her eyes darting around the room. “Who said that?”copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡhFgjnMBgro
A girl in a dark robe with silver accents stepped from the closet. Her long white hair and vibrant orange eyes stood out in stark contrast to both her black robe and extremely dark brown skin.copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡd3EgV2GB5C
“Who …”copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3oLVEOaNO4
“You can call me Mixe if you want.” The girl smiled, as though at some unseen joke. “So what are you going to do something about it?”copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡE5JVp7H0n9
“About what?” Teria asked, “About the middle-school student who broke into my room?”copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡpBd3S85yJa
“About why you just resisted the urge to break things.”copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡbNzXIeLT1A
“How …” She stopped abruptly, her eyes narrowing. “You're a Dreamer too, aren't you?”copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡXFGHA5Oi6c
“Technically speaking, though I'm not of the Elsewhere. You didn't answer my question, by the way.”copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡsvOFyGOEfy
She glared at the girl. “What business is it of yours?”copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡPrloo4CaYE
Mixe gave her a carefree shrug. “Without going into unnecessary detail, I’m doing a favor to an old friend ... not Glen, but someone very much like him. I know you still care about him, so let me ask again: are you going to do something about it? You don't strike me as the kind of woman who would let something or someone she cares about slip between her fingers.”copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡLVkrDVxrdD
Sighing, she sat back on her bed. “Luck likes him hard enough to put up a fight. He cares about her enough to ask me for advice. Doesn't sound like there's any room for me there, does it?”copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡDG8slH89lo
“Don't sell yourself short, Teria.” Mixe said, her voice quiet. “He still cares a great deal for you.”copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡHaP3ze8bp6
“He … he does?”copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡPa29CF496i
“Indeed.” Mixe let out a tired sigh and shook her head. “Talking relationships is so quaint, isn't it? I mean, here we are, Daughter Teria Myssohn of Longshore and Mixe of an organization even the Elsewhere doesn’t know about, and what matter of great importance are we are talking about? Glen's relationship status.”copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡMKZVckCluX
Teria chuckled alond with Mixe for a few moments. “I guess you're right. Mom would go ballistic if she heard me wringing my hands like some idestan drama queen.”copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡKc8AfHOoTe
“My suggestion is to not think about it.” Mixe advised. “Focus on the mission, and keep your eyes open. Who knows? Maybe it'll help you decide what action to take … if any. Good day, Miss Myssohn.”copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡuIpwS1cXbj
“Hang on.” Teria said, rising as Mixe turned to the door. “You said you had a friend who reminded you of Glen.”copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡgX3fTgAwC4
“Yes.” Mixe said with that same knowing grin. “You could say there are certain parallels in their lives.”copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡumgCXwjMVd
“How did your friend resolve it?”copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0pWpWOr8MC
Mixe’s smile widened. “She married you, so to speak. Good day, Miss Myssohn.”copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡr2AvitMS0p
With that, Mixe disappeared, leaving Teria alone with her thoughts.293Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDw5zV1onaa
copyright protection289ＰＥＮＡＮＡWuMd6JKqvF
