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 protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4rNkottJbU
“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 protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡJt8rndDqXq
Jeronem snored softly, his face hidden beneath a rather tacky-looking pointed hat.copyright protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡdM1Tli4dNF
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 protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡaSiZVVLEK7
“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 protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡdt74xKtroX
“If you say so.”copyright protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡuANDgsl8YX
After a few more moments of silence, Teria snorted. “Jek …”copyright protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7ygnFKGhZ1
Seeing Mikaen’s curious glance, she said, “Let’s just say he’s had a history of not showing.”copyright protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡrxM0NGbjJi
“She used to date Jek.” Tirinia explained.copyright protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡUvqnciMJZA
“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 protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡPKBMVuKdSl
“Actually, the other date was arranged by my father.”copyright protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡheBBaYcC2a
“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 protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡQz1Uu0fBS9
“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 protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡNnJHvvDXXj
Teria glared at him. “Then why are you smiling?”copyright protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡHJ4sro3a7H
Jek coughed. “Er … I’m not smiling.”copyright protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡNecTzQh49F
“Well then,” said Mikaen, hefting his gear, “Are we ready to go?”copyright protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡHjqyiluh6F
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 protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡAh7ojqleIa
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 protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡpoC6BWNmXA
Jeronem bristled, but didn’t say anything.copyright protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡSQWcJkkGYn
“So,” Mikaen said, cutting in before his young friend could respond, “What’s the plan?”copyright protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡAHcb4RCs9j
“Follow me.” Without another word, Jek started down the garden path, heading straight for the base of the crystalline tree.copyright protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3ozs3j4jk3
“Uh, why are we going to the royal tower?” Teria asked, her hands on her hips.copyright protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡnfZEuLwDFz
“No time to explain. Come on!”copyright protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡmT3N8SThvi
Sighing, Teria muttered, “If this doesn’t work, I’m going to put you through some serious pain. You know that, right?”copyright protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡlw351yuCy8
“You’ll go on another date with me?”copyright protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4bFTXRF6Uk
“Watch it, elf.”copyright protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5yuSb3HNdi
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 protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡwOiuMmkG30
“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 protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡjL5VsZlKnB
“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 protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡG5vbvsHGrd
As they crept through the silent halls, Teria expected the Cygros and half of his Celestial Knights to leap out from every corner.copyright protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡxtpIdu1DhL
“We’re almost there,” Jek said after about ten minutes of slow progress.copyright protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡVVV28nr2x2
That was when Princess Meryl walked around the corner.copyright protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡbbCIrdmmbV
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 protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1DeUCR1zPl
Once he was a sufficient distance away, Jek let out a sigh of relief. “Thank the Creator.”copyright protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡyEcZqbyNX9
“What the hell was that?” Teria hissed at Jek, “I thought you had everything under control?”copyright protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡyNpTgz3aoo
“Meryl sleepwalks sometimes, okay? Don’t worry, she won’t remember anything. Come on! We’re almost there.”copyright protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡkqHd41Df9u
The group hurried through the hallways, eventually stopping at a large circular room with an armor-clad dummy resting squarely in the center.copyright protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡuJxKp5KHZh
Mikaen approached the armor, a smile stealing across his face. “Jyle’s gear from the Knights of the Star.”copyright protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9S1X8pWUKe
“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 protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡZfHh1on25u
As he tightened the straps of Jyle’s gauntlet, Mikaen asked, “You know how to use that, right?”copyright protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡjG2FKjXf50
Jek clenched his fist. His gauntlet reconfigured into a scoped energy weapon, then back to a gauntlet again. “Answer your question?”copyright protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡMdFhpgl6MT
He approached the far wall of the chamber and placed his gauntlet-clad hand on a certain spot.copyright protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡTrflFOXT9h
Almost immediately, the outline of a door appeared on the far wall.copyright protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡaIfO2k16wm
“Shoulda figured Jyle would a have made a secret room somewhere.” Mikaen muttered, grinning.copyright protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡhIR4J55qmp
“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 protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡK0mFVB56oz
The moment Jek took a step into the hidden room, a flood of lights activated.copyright protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡORm41orjQq
Teria let out a whistle. “Nice…”copyright protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡFOiHo3RCv8
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 protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7gWh2z4jRB
Most impressive, however, were the seven chasers arranged in a semicircle in what looked to be an elevator.copyright protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡWXu6ry7q6v
“Way to go, Jek!” said Teria as she hopped onto the nearest chaser. The vehicle activated immediately, hovering a foot off the ground.copyright protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡF1XnaEVzxv
“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 protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡB94fN3qGye
Teria snorted. “I brought it back, didn’t I?”copyright protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡJwdXed9xIp
Someone snorted. “Yeah, after you nearly got us both sacrificed to the demon.”copyright protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡnjf7S6eyVM
“Okay, first off, that was-” Teria stopped when she realized that it was One who had spoken.copyright protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡDfVQrF5afJ
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 protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡo6WbMXn7YV
Jek blinked. “You’re coming with us?”copyright protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡzErSWxFOm0
“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 protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡLNGI8cY9b4
“Sounds cool.” she said, trying not to sound excited, “The more the merrier, right?”copyright protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡeork34MyLi
Mikaen looked at One suspiciously. “Are you really going to help us, or are you going disappear when the going gets tough?”copyright protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡhSIQtObiuY
“Mikaen!” Tirinia admonished, but One held up a hand to stop her.copyright protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5462rPkICj
“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 protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7kwcnDjs21
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 protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡmuh65v4V1d
A smile stealing across his face, Mikaen held out a hand, saying, “Welcome aboard, One.”copyright protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡsQ3n1QdtfG
One shook his hand. “Thanks.”copyright protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2uc666Wiy5
Glancing between the two of them, Jek said, “No disrespect to One or anything, but we really should get moving.”copyright protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡqb93pLQe2U
Nodding, Mikaen said, “Okay, everyone pick a chaser.”copyright protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡowamV1Uvx7
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 protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡNTWberAkYr
As Mikaen leaned forward, the forward panel of the car extended over his back.copyright protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡus28HI2srq
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 protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡAOp3r0LfSl
“How can I communicate with the others?” Mikaen asked.copyright protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1IrRKGDaMj
“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 protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡodYEyu2V6j
“Okay,” said Jek as he leaned into his chaser. “Everyone get ready.”copyright protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡRTdB2i0rfw
Once everyone was safely integrated into their respective chasers, Jek said, “Opening hatch.”copyright protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡWgXnejPxiy
Jeronem’s mental voice squeaked, “Hatch? What do you mean ‘hatch’? I thought this was a lift!”copyright protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡtkNjdoCnDE
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 protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡJ671DQeu31
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 protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡ927HIa95dN
As the floor arched, the chasers fell into line: Teria in the front, followed by Tirinia, Mikaen, Jeronem, One, and Jek.copyright protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡN9dQkAum1Z
The tunnel ended abruptly, the concealed entrance lifting so the chasers could pass into the moonlit forest.copyright protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡg44ljSy4Ml
Teria’s on-board map screen blinked to life. “All right,” she said, turning her chaser, “Last one to Ronisgald buys dinner!”copyright protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡhA2uDf9oF2
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 protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡvsltB8n2WS
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 protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡZgcDZkAp3b
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 protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡrcw3Kihb2N
“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 protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡVBLe4kdstr
“Ooh!” Jeronem glanced at Mikaen. “Can we check it out?”copyright protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4WatzpAKzH
“Probably a bad idea.” Mikaen replied. “We need to get as far as we can before Jyle realizes we’re gone.”copyright protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡUCROreIAVC
“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 protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡaJyY891YTq
“He did.” One told her. “Nothing I couldn’t handle.”copyright protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡPiQDDnzD1I
Teria grinned at him through her windshield. “Nice.”copyright protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡzS8VU6bpSq
As the sun set, Mikaen noticed a town on the horizon. “That’s not Ronisgald, right?”copyright protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡMQ8hZYWpZ8
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 protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡejo7CnWFlD
“We’re on a time table, One.”copyright protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡRuAl5FPoms
“Yeah, like Ronisgald knows that.”copyright protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡFt8h38yCXN
“Mikaen?” asked Tirinia, her voice sounding tired. “I could really use a break.”copyright protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡmlHnqmqbTy
Sensing an opportunity, Teria chimed in, “Yeah, I’m getting a bit stiff too.”copyright protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡOKv5B5VPrT
“Me too.” said Jek. “How ‘bout you, little guy?”copyright protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡDtZ0bdKXpK
After a moment of silence, Mikaen asked, “Jeronem?”copyright protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡvwcgo1hisU
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 protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡsRXoEUw1nx
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 protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡKycEkZdhqj
“Will he stop when we do?” Mikaen asked.copyright protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡNsKxCOPLA7
One tried his best to shrug. “I think so. Only one way to find out.”copyright protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡBD1l4KB2cS
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 protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡOQ1I9awXPe
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 protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡdiHrwFjn1Z
“Ugh.” Teria groaned, climbing stiffly off her chaser, “I’m gonna be sore in the morning.”copyright protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡQ1k2SF8NsK
“Well, look on the bright side; another run like that, and we’ll be there.” Jek said, hopping easily off his chaser.copyright protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡNPuBY2DNU0
Mikaen walked over to Jeronem’s chaser, which had already released him from the restraints, and tapped him on the shoulder.copyright protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡDBiZQq9pT3
Jeronem roused and sat up, rubbing his eyes. “Wha … we there yet?”copyright protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡEQ4fgsniXL
“Not yet. We’re gonna stop for tonight.”copyright protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9XBbinznH2
“Oh.”copyright protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡCxquZOqjiw
As Mikaen helped Jeronem out of his chaser, Jek called out, “Heads up! Someone’s coming.”copyright protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5dnBtnlxjJ
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 protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡslJh0hmXU9
“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 protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡft1L5lnB1x
He smiled when he came to Tirinia and Teria. “Tirinia and Teria Myssohn, though I doubt they’d remember me.”copyright protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡGQR2SIUTdw
Tirinia and Teria both gave him a hug, Teria saying, “Of course we remember you, Uncle Alex.”copyright protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1Kqvul5cDn
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 protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡfcvg9Ag3JT
“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 protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡbRQakEtTNS
“How is it you know who we are?” Mikaen asked.copyright protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡZlFVj0wY8l
“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 protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2ydfYJQtZa
“Er, not really.” One smiled apologetically at Alex. “Sorry, man.”copyright protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡjJajHXzz3z
“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 protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡP1ZvbEmL8S
Maya was looking up at Tirinia. “You’re pretty.” She said shyly.copyright protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡUhdFabNaqm
Tirinia knelt beside her, smiling. “I think you’re very pretty too.”copyright protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡH8sRLm0ABR
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 protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡFHkgvCHZ5E
“She’s a shapeshifter.” Alex explained unnecessarily, rubbing his daughter’s blonde hair.copyright protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3o3YXt444B
“Because you’re a Dreamer?” Mikaen asked.copyright protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡcsutUZ2OdM
Alex laughed. “Unlike the shapeshifting talent, which Maya inherited from her grandmother, Dreamer abilities aren’t hereditary.”copyright protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡZgUhwk2Q6n
“Emeryl still running the Merryweather Inn?” Teria asked, rubbing her neck. “We’re gonna need a few rooms for the night.”copyright protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡAKFR6sGwkl
“That’s not necessary. You and your friends are more than welcome to spend the night at my home.”copyright protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡihwLbgfSdv
“We don’t want to intrude.” Mikaen said.copyright protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡpZovJDnG07
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 protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡQmax2JW5CH
“You knew we were coming?” Mikaen asked, surprised.copyright protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡGfgQE8gGni
“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 protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡdgq3IvAUX2
He hoisted his daughter over his neck, and started walking through the city, the rest of the group following close behind.copyright protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡrr2hRUhVhA
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 protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡQ93yLN3VfO
“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 protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡh6f2ELNeRH
“Yeah, I read about this place.” Jek said, waving cheerily at several passersby, “Musicians, painters, story makers … a town of dreamers.”copyright protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡyCfmRkf9Da
“Sleepers,” One corrected.copyright protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡSqT9c8r3EM
“Whats the difference?” Teria asked curiously.copyright protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡfIrmSGg8F7
Maya recited, “A Sleeper is a dream-capable being who has a high probability of becoming a Dreamer.”copyright protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡk7q0NVtV0Y
“Very good, Maya.” Alex said, tickling his daughter.copyright protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡGCsgmli1Fo
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 protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡqIwt2Bhdvg
They eventually stopped in front of a grand house that seemed ancient, but well cared for.copyright protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡHmA2jZ3peo
“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 protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3OeW7U5cpm
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 protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡuHnQ8zlRQy
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 protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡuqTEM3JgyN
Alex watched them all with a look of mild amusement. “Well, that’ll work too. Come on. I’ll introduce you to Lauren.”copyright protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡoEg4jDudmB
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 protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡmjOte7csX4
Tirinia giggled at him. “Hungry, love?”copyright protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡS8Ns3R5Pkj
Alex looked at them in surprise. “Oh, you two are a couple? Ah, engaged, I see. I didn’t know.”copyright protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡSayGMAViii
Mikaen blushed as he put his arm around Tirinia’s shoulder and pulled her close.copyright protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡJ4JDFgZjnw
Alex shrugged and turned his gaze back to the kitchen. “Well, I thought Lauren was in here-”copyright protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡb98RM7bPUi
“DADDY!” Everyone turned as a boy no older than six ran into the room and hid behind Alex.copyright protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡAZYPSTTDDw
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 protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡzCjdCxk7hI
“He was looking at my diary!” She said, her hair literally fuming.copyright protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4pzIGYgRnd
“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 protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡXBBqzecnAg
Alyssa turned bright red. “I’m sorry, but he-”copyright protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡFFlz2Clsc0
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 protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡdmybO2XWUK
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 protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡLJrLnWaQuu
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 protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡBQKaGcS3FG
“A pain in the-” Alyssa began, only to be silenced by a look from her father.copyright protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡwFRShpZ4S4
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 protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡL8RkPFLKUw
“Oh!”copyright protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡ79RrXq4t67
One deftly caught the ornament and handed it back to her, saying, “Hello, Lauren. Daydreaming as always, I see.”copyright protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡHDbRGjgZBX
“One!” She set the knickknack on a nearby shelf, continuing, “Thank you! I’ve been so clumsy lately.”copyright protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡ38IVNmy8Yr
Her gaze fell on Teria and Tirinia. Beaming, she brushed past One and gave them both a big hug.copyright protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡygnCV33tAk
“Hi, Auntie Lauren.” Tirinia said, smiling.copyright protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡMUfpeGu0fi
“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 protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡVXpLNCKCzv
“Auntie!” said Tirinia, blushing.copyright protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1OpmSm782B
With a mischievous smile, Mikaen gave her a big kiss on the cheek and hugged her close.copyright protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡnsmeYOSVFz
“Mike!” Tirinia slapped his arm playfully, but didn’t pull away.copyright protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡfyTCQHdLk1
Chuckling, Alex asked his wife, “How’s dinner coming along, honey?”copyright protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡeBhmpwTNrY
“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 protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡrYETOK8OnT
“If it’s okay,” Tirinia said, slipping from Mikaen’s arm, “I’d like to talk to Auntie Lauren for awhile.”copyright protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡhJmKVCvQv3
“Of course. Alyssa, would you show everyone to the guest rooms?”copyright protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡHgyxMIQ3dE
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 protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡzdHZADeJN2
Teria’s ears twitched, but she said nothing. She wondered what it was that needed the two of them specifically.copyright protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡF0h14NTK3N
“You need me for anything?” One asked.copyright protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡXV8qV2gQfy
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 protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡC9P6MxC1mJ
“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 protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡsUZH5lTZtU
As the two hurried upstairs, Alex chuckled. “Ah, my good friend One. Ever the child at heart.”copyright protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡnCWbKGr5Yw
It was just Mikaen, Alex, and Teria now. Alex and Mikaen took armchairs while Teria stretched out on a couch.copyright protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡDXEt2uCPCu
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 protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡCxN05kOGBP
“He seems fine,” replied Mikaen. “though I’m a little surprised to have him actually traveling with us.”copyright protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡfo6QuSa4SI
“Yeah.” Teria added, “Especially after Teach blew up on him.”copyright protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡwCpqOYxxis
“Excuse me?”copyright protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡRqwp0KjutY
“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 protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡptjadbUkcN
“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 protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡUOapszRHq5
“What do you think it means?” Mikaen asked.copyright protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡci9df9W9hy
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 protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3FZNRRpg2m
Teria put a hand to her head. “You think it might have something to do with that dragon machine One found?”copyright protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡCGqHc7qTXR
“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 protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡmVhSzbIXfs
As they started up the stairwell, Alex asked, “Will Tirinia be sleeping in the same room as you, Mikaen?”copyright protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡxaNQXBnrDe
“We’re not married just yet.”copyright protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5b3RDvLmH5
Teria snorted. “Who do you think you’re fooling? You two’ve kept me up for the last three weeks with your ‘talking’.”copyright protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡbEvJQ2NXPN
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 protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡOXy8WxVJb1
“Yup.” Teria clapped a hand on Mikaen’s shoulder. “You two were mates the moment the bond formed, Mikaen … bro.”copyright protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡFSMoUFz8uI
“Oh boy.” Mikaen replied in a deadpan tone, “I always wanted a sister.”copyright protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡPIjmiiJ11C
Chuckling again, Alex opened the door for Mikaen, saying, “Well, if you do want separate rooms, just ask me after dinner, okay?”copyright protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡxdfDa0wq5e
“Thanks, Alex.” Mikaen let out a yawn. “I think I might catch a nap in the meantime.”copyright protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡgWdeLWl6Zb
“I will let you know when dinner is ready.” Alex bowed his head respectfully as he closed the door.copyright protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡ96xtjfCekP
As he and Teria continued walking, he said, “You’ve been quite the topic in the Elsewhere as of late.”copyright protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡrZVjjw8MBY
“Huh?” Teria said, startled at the idea of being a point of interest for a bunch of Dreamers.copyright protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1dKr1OEGpr
“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 protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡGww6687pin
“He what?” She asked, her cheeks feeling warm.copyright protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡWjKGwhTDFA
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 protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡn48NmThkDx
“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 protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡcTD01kXzNX
Alex chuckled. “I heard about that. You know, that bar brawl you started is still going.”copyright protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡ14TvrMxAHK
“Really?” Teria asked, unable to suppress the disbelief in her voice. “It's been months since our little spat.”copyright protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡGpyatKv7Ni
“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 protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡwDXEAPZwg1
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 protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8ijiyFUPOH
“Impressive show of self-restraint, Miss Myssohn.”copyright protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡOGukJs6aBw
She was on her feet in an instant, her eyes darting around the room. “Who said that?”copyright protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8dHoOLdzpi
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 protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡnIrRlXlevd
“Who …”copyright protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡzRl4YalJek
“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 protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡhagFKyWX2r
“About what?” Teria asked, “About the middle-school student who broke into my room?”copyright protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡHECQU3zeUu
“About why you just resisted the urge to break things.”copyright protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡsjvoU6Jswg
“How …” She stopped abruptly, her eyes narrowing. “You're a Dreamer too, aren't you?”copyright protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡEqpsPtinEq
“Technically speaking, though I'm not of the Elsewhere. You didn't answer my question, by the way.”copyright protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡJRYmACakxm
She glared at the girl. “What business is it of yours?”copyright protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡXgU0zDt4Dr
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 protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡAMihQUHX0m
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 protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡkaotQxtUYv
“Don't sell yourself short, Teria.” Mixe said, her voice quiet. “He still cares a great deal for you.”copyright protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡIc1AtLwXuH
“He … he does?”copyright protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡbMjheLXcoE
“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 protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡkfuW8nIsbd
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 protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡxMby7TiYDw
“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 protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡvR6WgXvPna
“Hang on.” Teria said, rising as Mixe turned to the door. “You said you had a friend who reminded you of Glen.”copyright protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡxSQNAYmVhu
“Yes.” Mixe said with that same knowing grin. “You could say there are certain parallels in their lives.”copyright protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0clTelPefw
“How did your friend resolve it?”copyright protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡVs4cNlgkIX
Mixe’s smile widened. “She married you, so to speak. Good day, Miss Myssohn.”copyright protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡJ1IyKONL7n
With that, Mixe disappeared, leaving Teria alone with her thoughts.378Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyUz7Z5EsPm
copyright protection374ＰＥＮＡＮＡqRhVSnQZbV
