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?”8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡaWeLSkACeJ 維尼
“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.”8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡgXDxy4GHh6 維尼
Jeronem snored softly, his face hidden beneath a rather tacky-looking pointed hat.8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5M0eKP5PKO 維尼
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.”8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡpm35VqPu84 維尼
“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.8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡPN6xG1gJXb 維尼
“If you say so.”8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡPWJASKUsrv 維尼
After a few more moments of silence, Teria snorted. “Jek …”8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡDLG5wUAS0A 維尼
Seeing Mikaen’s curious glance, she said, “Let’s just say he’s had a history of not showing.”8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡAwed04b4aA 維尼
“She used to date Jek.” Tirinia explained.8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡQZXlyH9Mz5 維尼
“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.”8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡorUkljZVXd 維尼
“Actually, the other date was arranged by my father.”8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡGBxyMesx5c 維尼
“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.8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡFqih7WUKwn 維尼
“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.”8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡlt7yPNldrg 維尼
Teria glared at him. “Then why are you smiling?”8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡCCBJIMOOK5 維尼
Jek coughed. “Er … I’m not smiling.”8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡa3pANsOxan 維尼
“Well then,” said Mikaen, hefting his gear, “Are we ready to go?”8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡcrgVgfI6Wa 維尼
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!”8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡTGta1QUH9b 維尼
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.”8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡKsAbqKu9oO 維尼
Jeronem bristled, but didn’t say anything.8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡjwW4UmVr25 維尼
“So,” Mikaen said, cutting in before his young friend could respond, “What’s the plan?”8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡVbNM36Fg2n 維尼
“Follow me.” Without another word, Jek started down the garden path, heading straight for the base of the crystalline tree.8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡn7sPoaV3CG 維尼
“Uh, why are we going to the royal tower?” Teria asked, her hands on her hips.8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡQblCRV3IGT 維尼
“No time to explain. Come on!”8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡYa2UI4LRuz 維尼
Sighing, Teria muttered, “If this doesn’t work, I’m going to put you through some serious pain. You know that, right?”8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡlRodhsUYba 維尼
“You’ll go on another date with me?”8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡCT7ZJSRb6s 維尼
“Watch it, elf.”8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8unDrJAf5z 維尼
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.8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡio0U85auVS 維尼
“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.”8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡJM3vgFfX6y 維尼
“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.8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡG4EZITHS2M 維尼
As they crept through the silent halls, Teria expected the Cygros and half of his Celestial Knights to leap out from every corner.8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡpzIFWZfsVq 維尼
“We’re almost there,” Jek said after about ten minutes of slow progress.8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡuytBO07ztl 維尼
That was when Princess Meryl walked around the corner.8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡcXJj15FVzP 維尼
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.8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡkSZmGpC3wc 維尼
Once he was a sufficient distance away, Jek let out a sigh of relief. “Thank the Creator.”8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡxKE0Tu6g76 維尼
“What the hell was that?” Teria hissed at Jek, “I thought you had everything under control?”8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡ505JSVgGGC 維尼
“Meryl sleepwalks sometimes, okay? Don’t worry, she won’t remember anything. Come on! We’re almost there.”8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡTT0qAb6S2U 維尼
The group hurried through the hallways, eventually stopping at a large circular room with an armor-clad dummy resting squarely in the center.8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡAuuE8ZNZwe 維尼
Mikaen approached the armor, a smile stealing across his face. “Jyle’s gear from the Knights of the Star.”8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡ97fugIBwNo 維尼
“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.8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡ79OJ8LtCrv 維尼
As he tightened the straps of Jyle’s gauntlet, Mikaen asked, “You know how to use that, right?”8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡyEyLTvyw9Z 維尼
Jek clenched his fist. His gauntlet reconfigured into a scoped energy weapon, then back to a gauntlet again. “Answer your question?”8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0RjA3GguMi 維尼
He approached the far wall of the chamber and placed his gauntlet-clad hand on a certain spot.8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡzf6msSqPtN 維尼
Almost immediately, the outline of a door appeared on the far wall.8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0t7K5TyoU2 維尼
“Shoulda figured Jyle would a have made a secret room somewhere.” Mikaen muttered, grinning.8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡs6uaU5Nyg2 維尼
“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.8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡfCWWWWYmvC 維尼
The moment Jek took a step into the hidden room, a flood of lights activated.8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡwWlxZZUIIz 維尼
Teria let out a whistle. “Nice…”8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡX7TL2SYB5J 維尼
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.8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡVWIo32cWve 維尼
Most impressive, however, were the seven chasers arranged in a semicircle in what looked to be an elevator.8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡnfkSlCVwpO 維尼
“Way to go, Jek!” said Teria as she hopped onto the nearest chaser. The vehicle activated immediately, hovering a foot off the ground.8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡienOjAR8r8 維尼
“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.”8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡlC51vX42WG 維尼
Teria snorted. “I brought it back, didn’t I?”8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7WlRY453BU 維尼
Someone snorted. “Yeah, after you nearly got us both sacrificed to the demon.”8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡEeGZaeTNpJ 維尼
“Okay, first off, that was-” Teria stopped when she realized that it was One who had spoken.8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡttmIv9Yucs 維尼
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.”8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡWMCXpwTOS5 維尼
Jek blinked. “You’re coming with us?”8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2wr2nZ9UOU 維尼
“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.8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡr5HPGQEooX 維尼
“Sounds cool.” she said, trying not to sound excited, “The more the merrier, right?”8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡa5jGTJlntF 維尼
Mikaen looked at One suspiciously. “Are you really going to help us, or are you going disappear when the going gets tough?”8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡNKZHvCijjC 維尼
“Mikaen!” Tirinia admonished, but One held up a hand to stop her.8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡdQzjY5C3tm 維尼
“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.8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡAoPnIxwgtg 維尼
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.”8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3HiY3nYTsJ 維尼
A smile stealing across his face, Mikaen held out a hand, saying, “Welcome aboard, One.”8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡYtCyA1Yt4n 維尼
One shook his hand. “Thanks.”8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡWoxKXhA94l 維尼
Glancing between the two of them, Jek said, “No disrespect to One or anything, but we really should get moving.”8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡ80VTYY735L 維尼
Nodding, Mikaen said, “Okay, everyone pick a chaser.”8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡpaFzQBck6D 維尼
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.”8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2IsJMTYIQv 維尼
As Mikaen leaned forward, the forward panel of the car extended over his back.8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡXd5CjVVZt5 維尼
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.”8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡrS73F7NebL 維尼
“How can I communicate with the others?” Mikaen asked.8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡnoJWhBQ8dD 維尼
“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.”8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡLuVFJh8BMG 維尼
“Okay,” said Jek as he leaned into his chaser. “Everyone get ready.”8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡyQ2bhuSyiW 維尼
Once everyone was safely integrated into their respective chasers, Jek said, “Opening hatch.”8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡc3lIl3EJpt 維尼
Jeronem’s mental voice squeaked, “Hatch? What do you mean ‘hatch’? I thought this was a lift!”8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡHPi8JpDquH 維尼
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.8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡaWKdzS8krA 維尼
Despite the mental scream of terror from Jeronem, Teria enjoyed the rush of adrenaline as her chaser built up speed, easily passing the others.8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡWODo2G6i2I 維尼
As the floor arched, the chasers fell into line: Teria in the front, followed by Tirinia, Mikaen, Jeronem, One, and Jek.8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡnpg9lxt9CW 維尼
The tunnel ended abruptly, the concealed entrance lifting so the chasers could pass into the moonlit forest.8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1VW3Zw5DAD 維尼
Teria’s on-board map screen blinked to life. “All right,” she said, turning her chaser, “Last one to Ronisgald buys dinner!”8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7oW2CJbjw6 維尼
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.8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡbNgMcxD8b8 維尼
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.8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡV38yTCFXuq 維尼
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.8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡgnuA1EndDr 維尼
“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.”8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡrc2DJ8cEPR 維尼
“Ooh!” Jeronem glanced at Mikaen. “Can we check it out?”8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5SHNxjPPja 維尼
“Probably a bad idea.” Mikaen replied. “We need to get as far as we can before Jyle realizes we’re gone.”8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2mtoIZ0hsa 維尼
“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.”8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡXdrksH6Pdk 維尼
“He did.” One told her. “Nothing I couldn’t handle.”8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡjowbEujB8P 維尼
Teria grinned at him through her windshield. “Nice.”8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡGq71A8ulJP 維尼
As the sun set, Mikaen noticed a town on the horizon. “That’s not Ronisgald, right?”8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡhCcHw8Nazi 維尼
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.”8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡhaZ7bL31lL 維尼
“We’re on a time table, One.”8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡOzook972ID 維尼
“Yeah, like Ronisgald knows that.”8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡn6jWrfWiLa 維尼
“Mikaen?” asked Tirinia, her voice sounding tired. “I could really use a break.”8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡgJxUlm4yJh 維尼
Sensing an opportunity, Teria chimed in, “Yeah, I’m getting a bit stiff too.”8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6dMYJJDeUs 維尼
“Me too.” said Jek. “How ‘bout you, little guy?”8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡKMq9M86BVn 維尼
After a moment of silence, Mikaen asked, “Jeronem?”8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡcxewX35axl 維尼
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.8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡoK8Vd3Yxh5 維尼
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.”8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡHp1Zl5uER3 維尼
“Will he stop when we do?” Mikaen asked.8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡcigYmGBIae 維尼
One tried his best to shrug. “I think so. Only one way to find out.”8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3AQzTE1Eka 維尼
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.8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡA66XVbf6QT 維尼
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.8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡW0p2LVfHF4 維尼
“Ugh.” Teria groaned, climbing stiffly off her chaser, “I’m gonna be sore in the morning.”8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡde52oFjo2J 維尼
“Well, look on the bright side; another run like that, and we’ll be there.” Jek said, hopping easily off his chaser.8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡjX5nG4F46Q 維尼
Mikaen walked over to Jeronem’s chaser, which had already released him from the restraints, and tapped him on the shoulder.8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9SARm8BbJ1 維尼
Jeronem roused and sat up, rubbing his eyes. “Wha … we there yet?”8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6xWJnQUMME 維尼
“Not yet. We’re gonna stop for tonight.”8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡEUA6XgYEFA 維尼
“Oh.”8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡZ8UYIlMdKo 維尼
As Mikaen helped Jeronem out of his chaser, Jek called out, “Heads up! Someone’s coming.”8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡxUTQfW02Q7 維尼
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.8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡb9tV6MpMZi 維尼
“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 …”8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡnB51bS4he1 維尼
He smiled when he came to Tirinia and Teria. “Tirinia and Teria Myssohn, though I doubt they’d remember me.”8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡv0vogxaG4n 維尼
Tirinia and Teria both gave him a hug, Teria saying, “Of course we remember you, Uncle Alex.”8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2otNlzbnVJ 維尼
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.”8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3uVrzI9SoW 維尼
“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.8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡWNeOpqm1CM 維尼
“How is it you know who we are?” Mikaen asked.8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1y68mRO5cF 維尼
“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?”8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡyLYgCLy6h2 維尼
“Er, not really.” One smiled apologetically at Alex. “Sorry, man.”8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡUalTjlB6kP 維尼
“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.”8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡHL3gvoqKkP 維尼
Maya was looking up at Tirinia. “You’re pretty.” She said shyly.8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡwihxQmtaIi 維尼
Tirinia knelt beside her, smiling. “I think you’re very pretty too.”8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡtrLfMgyhfJ 維尼
Maya giggled and ran to her father. Within the span of a few short seconds, she had changed from a Galden into a tigreth.8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡFKQfxueoqt 維尼
“She’s a shapeshifter.” Alex explained unnecessarily, rubbing his daughter’s blonde hair.8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0ZtF3kbvE1 維尼
“Because you’re a Dreamer?” Mikaen asked.8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡuCSMV7tR35 維尼
Alex laughed. “Unlike the shapeshifting talent, which Maya inherited from her grandmother, Dreamer abilities aren’t hereditary.”8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡG1CU3qAhrU 維尼
“Emeryl still running the Merryweather Inn?” Teria asked, rubbing her neck. “We’re gonna need a few rooms for the night.”8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡzaIQ2Uy98u 維尼
“That’s not necessary. You and your friends are more than welcome to spend the night at my home.”8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡKbD4palQic 維尼
“We don’t want to intrude.” Mikaen said.8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0gBu3xyBNf 維尼
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.”8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2pCX6tdDmp 維尼
“You knew we were coming?” Mikaen asked, surprised.8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡIegLeOfSVc 維尼
“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.”8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5GlVtq0i3M 維尼
He hoisted his daughter over his neck, and started walking through the city, the rest of the group following close behind.8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡtzJdQJ3Oyj 維尼
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.8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡitTkoz2aYy 維尼
“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.”8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡC9gO7fjdv7 維尼
“Yeah, I read about this place.” Jek said, waving cheerily at several passersby, “Musicians, painters, story makers … a town of dreamers.”8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡxNMtZUAjK6 維尼
“Sleepers,” One corrected.8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡCuR6JBNjYn 維尼
“Whats the difference?” Teria asked curiously.8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡcc5OHdCazk 維尼
Maya recited, “A Sleeper is a dream-capable being who has a high probability of becoming a Dreamer.”8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡbMemYyGMEj 維尼
“Very good, Maya.” Alex said, tickling his daughter.8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡpiL1rDb11R 維尼
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.8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡwV7Hpygxu0 維尼
They eventually stopped in front of a grand house that seemed ancient, but well cared for.8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7ZAWQb0LwS 維尼
“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.”8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡfaQuMYTJrA 維尼
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.8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡVevCmWwFPA 維尼
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.8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡnEZxmSC3IA 維尼
Alex watched them all with a look of mild amusement. “Well, that’ll work too. Come on. I’ll introduce you to Lauren.”8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡGbU6C4YCEc 維尼
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.8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3QjYy5DzIc 維尼
Tirinia giggled at him. “Hungry, love?”8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡZMAkiinkWA 維尼
Alex looked at them in surprise. “Oh, you two are a couple? Ah, engaged, I see. I didn’t know.”8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡiCKOJjnQHs 維尼
Mikaen blushed as he put his arm around Tirinia’s shoulder and pulled her close.8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡiG3lPfmxVV 維尼
Alex shrugged and turned his gaze back to the kitchen. “Well, I thought Lauren was in here-”8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3jUxQ0upGt 維尼
“DADDY!” Everyone turned as a boy no older than six ran into the room and hid behind Alex.8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1DlylzlSrY 維尼
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!”8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡSZpYCPiJGP 維尼
“He was looking at my diary!” She said, her hair literally fuming.8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡz4ISv6mIuk 維尼
“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.”8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡFd2LswlRbp 維尼
Alyssa turned bright red. “I’m sorry, but he-”8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡHUtJbUH47y 維尼
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.”8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9UUr8ScKuU 維尼
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.8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0Q6WPjuiYP 維尼
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?”8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡlaqml0vh66 維尼
“A pain in the-” Alyssa began, only to be silenced by a look from her father.8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡQIdh03V21v 維尼
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.8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡH9QVCqPyBx 維尼
“Oh!”8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡTlZE1dVrqv 維尼
One deftly caught the ornament and handed it back to her, saying, “Hello, Lauren. Daydreaming as always, I see.”8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡGcW7pxLwAu 維尼
“One!” She set the knickknack on a nearby shelf, continuing, “Thank you! I’ve been so clumsy lately.”8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1wWcm70hq1 維尼
Her gaze fell on Teria and Tirinia. Beaming, she brushed past One and gave them both a big hug.8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡReN6TcZNjj 維尼
“Hi, Auntie Lauren.” Tirinia said, smiling.8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡfRdika3kHv 維尼
“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!”8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡA6jXoRjaoE 維尼
“Auntie!” said Tirinia, blushing.8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6zjUCDHYOz 維尼
With a mischievous smile, Mikaen gave her a big kiss on the cheek and hugged her close.8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡRwnxgN9GDc 維尼
“Mike!” Tirinia slapped his arm playfully, but didn’t pull away.8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡtTCWf2QgEf 維尼
Chuckling, Alex asked his wife, “How’s dinner coming along, honey?”8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡ27qSRyOMRs 維尼
“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?”8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡCYFn6ettE6 維尼
“If it’s okay,” Tirinia said, slipping from Mikaen’s arm, “I’d like to talk to Auntie Lauren for awhile.”8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡD8voWrCLR2 維尼
“Of course. Alyssa, would you show everyone to the guest rooms?”8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡQIoDuM41t0 維尼
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.”8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡUo3V9Snbym 維尼
Teria’s ears twitched, but she said nothing. She wondered what it was that needed the two of them specifically.8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡBVL3HOsZ3Y 維尼
“You need me for anything?” One asked.8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡsF2uFJcFHo 維尼
Alex shook his head. “I was going to give them a little briefing on Ronisgald. You’re more than welcome to stay, of course.”8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2DwroIGEsw 維尼
“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.”8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡwyDc4DfS5V 維尼
As the two hurried upstairs, Alex chuckled. “Ah, my good friend One. Ever the child at heart.”8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡiiHdxoCmZ1 維尼
It was just Mikaen, Alex, and Teria now. Alex and Mikaen took armchairs while Teria stretched out on a couch.8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡYXk5dudZzw 維尼
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.”8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡST6Iw0r78Z 維尼
“He seems fine,” replied Mikaen. “though I’m a little surprised to have him actually traveling with us.”8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡArsCzE2OjM 維尼
“Yeah.” Teria added, “Especially after Teach blew up on him.”8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡgXWKqPfZgC 維尼
“Excuse me?”8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡTf2ES99nXq 維尼
“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.8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡyOXXQZEH4j 維尼
“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.”8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡeO6oUvU4Yv 維尼
“What do you think it means?” Mikaen asked.8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡYSnTyD7Yp6 維尼
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.”8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡwImEDdUS2r 維尼
Teria put a hand to her head. “You think it might have something to do with that dragon machine One found?”8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡNWdaIFHjEP 維尼
“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.”8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡWTLCGlUXmH 維尼
As they started up the stairwell, Alex asked, “Will Tirinia be sleeping in the same room as you, Mikaen?”8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1EduVup2vm 維尼
“We’re not married just yet.”8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡUbDGr33sAI 維尼
Teria snorted. “Who do you think you’re fooling? You two’ve kept me up for the last three weeks with your ‘talking’.”8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7l046ObTFB 維尼
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?”8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡUSuYTKJPzM 維尼
“Yup.” Teria clapped a hand on Mikaen’s shoulder. “You two were mates the moment the bond formed, Mikaen … bro.”8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡGOMA5KH1O4 維尼
“Oh boy.” Mikaen replied in a deadpan tone, “I always wanted a sister.”8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡvJuDFzu9c0 維尼
Chuckling again, Alex opened the door for Mikaen, saying, “Well, if you do want separate rooms, just ask me after dinner, okay?”8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡhFUeEuf3sE 維尼
“Thanks, Alex.” Mikaen let out a yawn. “I think I might catch a nap in the meantime.”8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡmufTRy5vkr 維尼
“I will let you know when dinner is ready.” Alex bowed his head respectfully as he closed the door.8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡt1dUCUGwFP 維尼
As he and Teria continued walking, he said, “You’ve been quite the topic in the Elsewhere as of late.”8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡonTZcT0HTE 維尼
“Huh?” Teria said, startled at the idea of being a point of interest for a bunch of Dreamers.8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡBRjVdmowtO 維尼
“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.”8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡvYBYYvtnXB 維尼
“He what?” She asked, her cheeks feeling warm.8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡlTtbkKfmWJ 維尼
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.”8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡTxss4f2zn4 維尼
“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.”8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡzLQZTbvA5j 維尼
Alex chuckled. “I heard about that. You know, that bar brawl you started is still going.”8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡNW7GaElnme 維尼
“Really?” Teria asked, unable to suppress the disbelief in her voice. “It's been months since our little spat.”8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡDd6b4htzLb 維尼
“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.”8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡtoc2P5EHXO 維尼
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.8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡNKVENFRkmd 維尼
“Impressive show of self-restraint, Miss Myssohn.”8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡzFYJWaX3el 維尼
She was on her feet in an instant, her eyes darting around the room. “Who said that?”8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡjrEOPY9J1y 維尼
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.8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡRahwhV13U5 維尼
“Who …”8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡpxenmWFzU4 維尼
“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?”8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9AKTDQwq3K 維尼
“About what?” Teria asked, “About the middle-school student who broke into my room?”8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡtZtrFpTGbO 維尼
“About why you just resisted the urge to break things.”8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡfwJbtT5Duz 維尼
“How …” She stopped abruptly, her eyes narrowing. “You're a Dreamer too, aren't you?”8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1aG6pF5zJZ 維尼
“Technically speaking, though I'm not of the Elsewhere. You didn't answer my question, by the way.”8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡDtQeAoTDjz 維尼
She glared at the girl. “What business is it of yours?”8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡglbMg3bmYK 維尼
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.”8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡC7QDbniBGm 維尼
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?”8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡbN3BdrOWDW 維尼
“Don't sell yourself short, Teria.” Mixe said, her voice quiet. “He still cares a great deal for you.”8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡGYds5ZgHGs 維尼
“He … he does?”8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡDlmniB6srQ 維尼
“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.”8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡipEdoNvgsd 維尼
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.”8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡbcs4vAme7w 維尼
“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.”8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4wHu0W27i3 維尼
“Hang on.” Teria said, rising as Mixe turned to the door. “You said you had a friend who reminded you of Glen.”8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡyMOcdRzaKx 維尼
“Yes.” Mixe said with that same knowing grin. “You could say there are certain parallels in their lives.”8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡPwCljXZBs9 維尼
“How did your friend resolve it?”8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡ91exUtNv3F 維尼
Mixe’s smile widened. “She married you, so to speak. Good day, Miss Myssohn.”8964 copyright protection401ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1T5ybaRTL5 維尼
With that, Mixe disappeared, leaving Teria alone with her thoughts.405Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNF6WpuXSwl
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